I am a 13 year survivor of breast cancer and will be walking the 5K then biking the 10 mile route on October 13 at Mendon Ponds Park. I consider myself a private person and didn’t really tell my cancer story to too many people; however, now I believe the more we tell our stories the more information about cancer people will know. So here’s my cancer story.
I was diagnosed on October 26, 2006 at 6pm (yeah I know 666) by a phone call from the doctor at Wende Logan who did my biopsy. It was a Friday night and my world had just changed. She told me to call a surgeon to schedule an appointment. I took the weekend to find a surgeon then made the call Monday morning to begin that part of the journey.
My journey lasted almost 2 years with 4 surgeries, chemo therapy and a year of Herceptin by IV that I had to stop a month early due to the effects on my heart. I tried my best to teach during chemo but when my liver went into distress and I could only digest bread, I took more time off than I wanted to. I also lost my hair on my birthday: that was hard. I rarely went out in public, like shopping or the mall, due to my weakened immune system. Barry did a lot during that time and I’m grateful to him and all the people who helped us out.I know and you know who you are.
Yet through all the tough times, I know for sure I would do it all again, including the 110+ needles . Do you know why? I wouldn’t have the healthy attitude or some of the friends I/we have met getting healthy on this journey.
So in closing I’d like to say, you may donate to my fundraising page, if you wish. Although maybe even more importantly, take care of your own health. Listen to your body, stay current with your appointments and encourage others in your circle to check themselves. Save 2nd base.
If you know someone going through the cancer journey or another health journey, check in on them and let them know you’re thinking about them. Sometimes just knowing that is helpful.
Thanks for listening Let’s work together toward a healthier future.