Tell us about your survivor journey.
My cancer journey started on September 10,2015. My doctor’s office called telling me to come to his office right away and bring my husband with me. I knew then that the news would probably be not so good. That week I went to see a surgeon, oncologist, and plastic surgeon. I was scared to beyond words because further testing had to be done and they would be back in about ten days. The waiting was agonizing to say the least. I also told my gynecologist that I had too much to live for and I would not leave this earth. I knew that God would take care of this breast cancer for me. Everything would be ok if I prayed and and ask God to help and guide me. My port was inserted on a Thursday and the next Monday I started chemotherapy. My chemo infusions were every 3rd Monday for 6 treatments. By the end of the second treatment my hair fell out within a day I was bald. Ladies I mean that my hair had been thick shiny and a head full of black hair. I immediately started looking for a place to find a wig. I went to an American Cancer society meeting where they were giving away wigs. I had a choice between having long red hair or short blonde hair. “Wow what choices” I chose short blonde and my husband flipped out when I got to the car. Within the next few days my loving husband took me to purchase a brown frosted wig. We were able to work with that one. The word started circulating within my church and my friend’s prayers started going to heaven. I ask people all over the world to pray so I felt really pleased that I knew a lot of people from around the globe. By now my test results were back and the final diagnosis was HER-2 NEU. This kind was a complex type of breast cancer so my treatments elevated to every 3rd week for a one year treatment cycle. My doctors visits were endless, but by the help of God, good doctors, nurses, and last but not least, my loving family. I am a proud survivor of 4 years.
However, the very best story I can tell is my dear grandmother had breast cancer in 1972 when she was 62 years old and survived until she was 100 years old. I think that her story is inspirational and incredible to say the least. This story is not just about me, but the two of us. I am looking forward to a healthy life until I am 100 years old. Thank you, God
What has been the biggest source of support through your journey?
Knowing that my family, friends, church congregations and God’s loving kindness would save my life. I left it all in His hands.
What are some lessons you have learned throughout your survivor journey?
Never take anything for granted today is all we are promised. Live life as if were the last day you had on earth. Laugh as often as possible it is really good medicine.
Do you have any advice for a newly diagnosed survivor? What would that advice be and why?
Make all of your treatment sessions faithfully. Eat whether you want to or not and walk as much as you able even if it in circles around the inside of you house. 99% of surviving is saying to yourself you are worth it—-stay strong, developer courage and bravery because you are in this to win it.
In the space below, feel free to add any additional information like extra stories, lessons to live by, meaningful life quotes, advice or unique factors that contribute to your survivor journey.
Another thought is my birth friend had breast cancer at age 40 and we are 66 years old now. God has richly blessed us with each other all of our lives. She was a rock for me during my treatments and beyond. Friends to the end.
The Forms Boutique
Address: 3308 Forest Dr, Columbia, SC 29204
Phone: (803) 738-8400
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Forms-Boutique/133685356683302
