DOB: 20th May, 1968
I was first diagnosed in Sept, 2018. I was 50 years old. Immediately, I believed that God had allowed this situation so that I could help other women and their families. Having this faith has really helped me remain positive. That’s not to say that I haven’t cried. I have a few times, mainly when I’ve been awaiting results of a scan. You all know what I’m talking about, right?!!!
My initial treatment for my stage 3, grade 3 invasive lobular carcinoma was to have a double mastectomy, axillary clearance, 16 rounds of chemo, 25 rounds of radiation and Hormone Blocking medication for 10 years. I was on Femara for 9 months, (about 7 months too long!!!), and then Tamoxifen for 4 years.
My oncologist said that the hormone blockers stopped working for me which is why my cancer returned. It’s in my spine. My oncologist gave me between 3 and 5 years, but I told him that because I’m highly competitive, and I know a lady that has survived for 7 years so far, that I’m going for at least 10!!! 😊
So, I’m now 55. I have my husband of almost 34 years, and my 2 adult children. They each have a wonderful partner, and 2 of their own children. Yep, I’m grandma to 3 girls (3yrs, 3yrs and 1 month) and 1 boy (1 year old). They are precious indeed, and while I want to hang around for as long as possible so that I can still enjoy wonderful moments with my husband, and continue to make special memories with every family member and my friends, I also have complete peace about God’s will coming to fruition, whatever that looks like. Peace is a gift, and I’m so thankful that I truly have it!!!
Life is good. Really good! I enjoy being an active Rotary member, playing mahjong, playing my ukulele and I just LOVE playing board games. Sometimes Grandma has to play dolls and Barbies, and that’s ok too. 😊
Managing Paperwork
Keep a history of your illness. Include dates of scans and results, as you will be asked these dates often. Ask your oncologist to explain what the results of investigations and tests mean.