My doctor had said to me, "go get this mammogram, or else!" (something to that effect). So I did.
I saw a sample of the negative of the xray. I didn't think much. at the 1st March, I got a call from the health center. The doctor and the nurse ushered me into a small room. They said, "You have breast cancer".
Being a survivor of cancer three previous times, this one sounded serious. There were many tests. MRI with biopsy, followed by ultra sound, another MRI for a second lump and a biopsy, the stress was overwhelming.
Then, came the news in early May by the surgeon, "Mastectomy" followed by .... The months went by fast. I was scared. A hysterectomy from cancer, thyroid cancer, skin cancer and now breast cancer. I felt I looked awkward, what with the stitches sewn across my chest. Three weeks later, and I'm adjusting to a foam insert and a camisole. I feel lobsided. I feel strange.
But I'm alive.
Caught at an early stage, the cancer was an agressive one at a stage one level. One lymph node was affected. No chemo, no radiation therapy. But hormonal therapy is next on the list. I feel like I must do something to bring attention to breast cancer.
Today, I'm taking one day at a time. Cancer makes you think your life over. It makes one reflect and refine the perceptions of life. Being a Canadian Painter, illustrator and artist/writer, I donated a painting (abstract/symbolism) to the Breast Action Society in Ottawa for a raffle. I hope to do more to bring about awareness.
Cancer is now my fight, one day at a time.
Ottawa, Canada
