Spring Has A New Meaning

People who know me understand how I absolutely wait for Spring and Summer. Seeing the world turn green and bloom, sun shining and warmer temperatures. This year, Spring has a different meaning.  I was diagnosed with breast cancer in February and for the last two months have experienced the physical and emotional stress that comes with that diagnosis. Mammograms, ultrasounds, MRI, biopsies, appointments with oncology nurse navigator, surgeon, oncologists.  Surgery at the end of March. The initial shock of being told the doctor saw something suspicious on that first mammogram became anxiety and stress.  But, as I moved through the process at the Ascension/St. Vincent Breast Center, I became educated and optimistic. Everyone I came in contact with made me feel like this was a health issue that could be conquered. 

One thing I've learned: a cancer diagnosis doesn't just affect the patient.  Telling my family was tough. For the most part, I've been relatively healthy most of my life.  Other than the issues that come with getting older, I've been fortunate to not have to deal with something as serious as cancer. My family has rallied around me and adopted the same optimism I've felt with doctors. My co-workers have let me know I'm in their thoughts and prayers. Close friends have offered any kind of help or support I need. 

This season of new life has new meaning. Looking ahead, knowing I will be in touch with an oncologist for many years to come, I feel all the support. Knowing my future will include annual ultrasounds instead of routine mammograms gives me hope not dread. I have a daughter and three granddaughters.  My daughter has stood with me and shed the same or even more tears than I have.  Telling my granddaughters will be done now that I have survived the process and move forward so that if, God forbid, they ever face this same diagnosis, they'll know their Mimi faced it in her lifetime and got through it.  Genetic testing is also in my future.  Along with pre-testing counselling, it will help make my family aware of any possible genetic markers so they can be proactive in dealing with their health in the years to come.

What have I learned from this?  Most important is that as much as we women dread that mammogram, it can save your life. I will be an advocate for the rest of my life, encourage all my female friends not to skip or cancel that annual exam. I'll end with something I saw online when Googling what I'm going through: