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My phone rang at 10:00 a.m., and the doctor who did the biopsy said the pathology report was back already. He said that unfortunately, cancer cells were found. He said I would need a lumpectomy (surgery to remove the lump), radiation, and possibly chemotherapy. He told me to buy a book called Dr. Susan Love’s Breast Book. I got the book that day.
Somehow, I made it though the Thanksgiving weekend, with my thoughts jumping from the hope that this would turn out OK to the fear that I would not see my boys grow up. My mind wandered and worried about surgery and what treatments I would have. I wondered if I could have more kids and whether or not I would lose my hair. I cried and lost sleep and was hopeful, too.
I learned a lot from reading my new book. I learned that many women do go on to have kids after cancer, but I also learned that chemotherapy in young women could cause early menopause. I learned that I have an 85 percent survival rate, and also that I will get tiny little tattoos surrounding my breast to aid in the proper delivery of radiation. These permanent tattoos will also alert any future doctors that my breast has had radiation because I can never have it again in that same area. The book helped me feel positive about this journey, but it also helped me face reality.
Note: My survival rate turned out to be more like 93 percent for five years. And here I am — at five years.
Tags: cancer cells, Chemotherapy, Dr. Susan Love's Breast Book, lumpectomy, pathology, Radiation
Congratulations on 5 years! That is fabulous and I hope for 105 more for you!
May God bless you with 50 more years ! Happy Thanksgiving, Jacki ! We have much to be thankful for this year ! I love my Sweet Pea !
Love, Jane
Choking back tears as I read this because I remember crying with you on the phone after you sent the email to everyone letting us know what you were facing. Seems like so long ago……now these are happy tears because I am truly happy for you, thankful for you and so glad you are my friend. Congrats friend on an awesome milestone in your recovery.
I found your blog doing a google search and now I know why. Here it is, the day before Thanksgiving and I am looking at a breast ultrasound and diagnostic mammogram on Friday. Did I mention, I’m 27?!??! And I’m scared. Everyone says I have age on my side…but I have a feeling (you know those feelings we women should NEVER ignore) that this is not good. And here I stumble upon your blog and realized that 5 years ago, this same time of year your world came tumbling down. And maybe I can put on the smile for family, and cry alone in the shower, and know that there are so many women out there who know exactly how I’m feeling! Congratulations on your anniversary! I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Thanks for sharing your journey!