I was diagnosed in August 2011 with DCIS, Stage 2 ER/PR Positive. My doctors and surgeons informed me this was an early stage, easy to beat diagnosis. However I had already lost 2 amazing sister-in-laws to this disease so we were devastated when we heard the news. I religiously went for my mammogram every year and having no history in my family I never worried. Luckily the mammogram picked up on a suspicious area and after the biopsy I got the news.
This was difficult news to break to both sides of the family because each side of the family had lost a person from breast cancer. The first few weeks were foggy to me - meeting doctors, MRIs, biopsies, and coming up with a plan of action. Working everyday helped because it was a distraction to me. However it was those alone moments that consumed me - driving in the car, a certain song on the radio, crying uncontrollably in the shower so no one would hear me, and life reflections.
My husband and 11-year old son were my strength. They kept encouraging me that everything would be fine. Once the date was set for my lumpectomy I finally had clarity and decided this would not consume me!! I had a lumpectomy with no node involvement (thank God). I only missed 4 days of work and then decided to get my life back on track.
I did require 6 weeks of radiation which went by without a hitch and I never experienced any fatigue or other side effects. When radiation was completed my husband and son took me on a trip to the mountains to regain my composure and vitality.
I now give back by volunteering for the local American Cancer Society in their Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in our community. Last year I was chosen to be the Survivor Spokesperson for the event. I have been asked by ACS to give Survivor speeches at a few events and that is rewarding to me - giving others hope!
Orland Park, IL
