At the start of 2024 I received news everyone woman dreads. 

I remember that feeling when the Dr confirmed my biopsy showed I had breast cancer. That night I sat quietly and let myself feel all the feelings that went with my diagnosis.  Admittedly scared was the dominant feeling.

I knew how lucky I was because my tumor showed up on an MRI for a completely different test.  This meant the tumor was found early and up to a year before it would show up on a mammogram.  Even so the tumor was 2.1 cm and a grade 3.

Treatment started with breast conserving surgery AKA lumpectomy.  From here I met with the Chemo Oncologist who sent some of the biopsy off to a lab in California which tests aggressiveness and predictability of the cancer returning.  With the results of this test being good I was able to bypass chemotherapy and move directly to radiation.  Throughout this whole journey I could not have received better care.  All of my Doctors, Nurses, Technicians, Support staff were professional and caring.  I was given access to resources and pamphlets to recap all of the information I was told at my appointments.

I was also diagnosed with DCIS – Ductal carcinoma in situ, a non-invasive form of Breast Cancer.  Admittedly I still don’t know a lot about this.

I’ve been blessed to have such wonderful support from my family and friends and I would like to thank them so very much for being there for me.

I will be walking on Sunday October 6 for everyone touched by this disease.  Survivors, fighters, women and men.  For all the friends and family who have been there for us.