Describe your journey to diagnosis (What events led to your diagnosis? What was your initial reaction?)
I had just given birth to my son and my right breast was severely engorged. I went to my five-week postpartum appointment and my OBGYN was very concerned and sent me to a specialist. They were able to remove the fluid but when they sent it over to pathology, the cells were cancerous. My initial reaction was shock and a loss for words, but when I was told it was treatable, I became very optimistic.
What was your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge after being diagnosed was being a new mom as well as having two other young children. I still continued to work along with going about my daily life while going through treatment. I overcame all my challenges by developing a strong faith and trusting God would get me through it.
What are you most grateful for?
I am most grateful for my children: Ben, Mason, and Liam. I knew I had to fight for them.
What have you learned that you wish you knew when you were first diagnosed?
I wish I would have found a support group in the beginning. I kept my journey to myself and did most things alone.
How did breast cancer impact your relationships with friends or family?
I lost a lot of friendships after my diagnosis. I think it was hard for people to handle the unknown. I felt that not knowing what to say or how to treat the situation scared them away. The blessing is that I met some amazing people on the journey.
In what ways did breast cancer change how you felt about yourself?
After breast cancer, I learned to give myself more love and care. I used to be very shy and quiet. I decided I want to live life and start enjoying every moment. I take better care of myself and always make sure I have much needed me time.
If you could make people “aware” of one thing about breast cancer what it be and why?
If I could make more people aware of one thing it would be to listen to their body. If you feel or see any changes, get it checked out early.
What are your words to live by?
The words I live by are, “Live for today.” Tomorrow is not promised so live every moment. Take the move, start the business, and take the trip. Enjoy every moment NOW!
What advice would you give to a newly diagnosed woman?
The advice I would give is to not let cancer live for you. You can choose to give it power or not. Take your life back and continue to press on. Speak life over yourself and focus on living.
