I have always loved to travel, but in November 2013 I began a journey I never want any woman to ever take. I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Growing up the daughter of a breast cancer survivor I knew the importance of self check and mammograms. I had found lumps before and they always turned out to be cyst. So this one would not be any different.
The evening after the mammogram the doctor called to tell me the results...."consistent with malignancy." My first words to her was "If this is cancer it will not win. I have too many things to do." For some reason I never entertained the idea that I would die. I looked at this as a large bump in the road of life and believed that God had a greater plan for me and therefore this WOULD NOT WIN.
Then began the many trips to the doctors, surgeons, and oncologist. Again I was tested with the excruciating pain of biopsies, positive cells in both breast and convincing the doctors that I had already decided on a double mastectomy. I knew in my heart that I was going to beat this and I did not want to have to EVER worry with this again. Through all of this I kept the faith that I would win this fight.
The day of the surgery as the doctor was explaining everything to me and my husband my only question was "How soon can I go back to work?" Her response was "We will have to see what other treatments will be needed" I again said "Yes I understand that, but how soon can I go back to work?" She looked at me as though I had lost my mind. I looked deep into her eyes and said "You need to understand, this will not win because God's got this one." She smiled and said, "I believe you're right, you should be able to go back in 8 weeks"
My determination, the love and support of my family and my belief in God helped me win!!!
Galax, VA
