Survivor Stories
Link to American Cancer Society survivor stories:
https://www.cancer.org/latest-news/stories-of-hope.html
Michele's Story
In February of 2003, I had a "normal" mammogram. One month later I found a lump in the shower. I immediately went to my gynecologist and was eventually diagnosed with Stage 2A ductal invasive Breast Cancer at age 44. After a mastectomy, reconstruction, chemo, 2 years of tamoxifen and 5 years of Arimidex, I am doing great!
I have no family history of breast cancer and do not carry the BRCA gene, however, my mom took the drug DES while pregnant with me. DES exposed women have a higher risk of breast cancer.
The wonderful support of family, friends, breast cancer survivors, good doctors and nurses got me through my breast cancer journey. Eating a healthy diet, staying active, yoga, thinking positively, having faith in God and loving life help me stay strong and healthy.
While going through treatment, my husband was good at distracting me from cancer so it did not consume us. We went to the beach the week I lost my hair and I wasn't so sad. Keeping some normalcy in my life and doing things that brought me joy were important to helping me get through the tough times.
I enjoy volunteering with the American Cancer Society and helping out with the Cancer Support Group. It fills my heart to give back and I have met so many amazing people. I feel so blessed!
Link to American Cancer Society survivor stories:
https://www.cancer.org/latest-news/stories-of-hope.html
Michele's Story
In February of 2003, I had a "normal" mammogram. One month later I found a lump in the shower. I immediately went to my gynecologist and was eventually diagnosed with Stage 2A ductal invasive Breast Cancer at age 44. After a mastectomy, reconstruction, chemo, 2 years of tamoxifen and 5 years of Arimidex, I am doing great!
I have no family history of breast cancer and do not carry the BRCA gene, however, my mom took the drug DES while pregnant with me. DES exposed women have a higher risk of breast cancer.
The wonderful support of family, friends, breast cancer survivors, good doctors and nurses got me through my breast cancer journey. Eating a healthy diet, staying active, yoga, thinking positively, having faith in God and loving life help me stay strong and healthy.
While going through treatment, my husband was good at distracting me from cancer so it did not consume us. We went to the beach the week I lost my hair and I wasn't so sad. Keeping some normalcy in my life and doing things that brought me joy were important to helping me get through the tough times.
I enjoy volunteering with the American Cancer Society and helping out with the Cancer Support Group. It fills my heart to give back and I have met so many amazing people. I feel so blessed!