I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer on May 5, 2008. More specifically, stage 3 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. I first suspected there was a problem a few weeks earlier when I started to notice that my breast had changed shape. I didn't feel a lump initially but my left breast had drawn up into a ball with a concave at the bottom. Something wasn't right. I made an appointment with my gynecologist. After the exam he asked "Is there a surgeon that you know and like?". I knew then it was cancer. The thing I had dreaded. But instead of freaking out, I felt this peace come over me. The Lord was letting me know that everything was going to be alright.
I went to see my surgeon who did a biopsy. A few days later I got the call we all dread-"The doctor needs you to come in for the results of your biopsy". "Cant you tell me over the phone?" Silence, unbearable silence. "I'm sorry, I can't". "Should I bring someone with me?" "Yes".
The tumor was 9 cm's long and at my chest wall. I went through chemo, radical mastectomy, more chemo, and radiation. It was hard. Some many days, I just didn't think I had the strength to fight this battle. Had alot of pajama days. But, the Lord gave me the peace, my incredible family gave me the strength, and I am writing this to give you hope-you can and will survive. It's a cliche' but cancer is a word, not a sentence. Don't give up!!! I'm here for my 9 year old, it doesn't get better than that. The chemo IS a pain but it works. My 9 cm tumor was 2.5 cm's when they removed it. Keep the faith, baby!
Pelahatchie, MS