Tell us about your survivor journey.
At age 28 I was initially tested for the BRCA 1 gene as my mother and aunt both had breast cancer. I was confirmed to not have the gene. On June 10, 2019, I felt a lump on my breast and immediately knew something was wrong. I was 35 and had never had a mammogram, called my doctor and she sent me in for a mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy. 7 Days later I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I have now gone through a double mastectomy, 1 reconstructive surgery and currently on my 22nd radiation treatment. I have been open about my diagnosis and the fact that a self check saved my life. I would not have had a mammogram for 5 more years and at that point, I might have been staring death in the mirror. I was diagnosed stage 1 but it was grade 3 and ready to spread. Sharing my journey on social media and being open about how I caught it has helped so many of my friends be proactive and have got them to go out and get mammograms themselves when they had been waiting or continued to re-schedule because they didn’t have time. As women and especially moms we tend to put ourselves on the back burner. I am very in touch with my nutrition and fitness and I think for my friends to see that it can affect anyone was eye-opening. It can happen to anyone. If I can help one person through this journey and encourage others to be proactive with there health then I am doing what I was put on this earth to do.
What has been the biggest source of support through your journey?
My Family, friends and social media. I know this sounds crazy but when you talk about your journey you find so many others that are going through it or that have been through it. You don’t feel so alone. I have met so many brave and courageous women through this journey and wouldn’t have been able to get through the hard days without them.
What are some lessons you have learned throughout your survivor journey?
I am much stronger than I ever thought I was and so is my son and husband. Don’t be afraid to share your journey with others. It is okay to cry. My community of friends and family is simply the best. It is okay to admit that you are struggling because people will help pick you up.
Do you have any advice for a newly diagnosed survivor? What would that advice be and why?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Find a community of support and ask the hospital staff for groups that you can attend. Talk about what you are going through, holding your feelings inside only makes it worse. TRUST ME, I know from experience.
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.
As a health and fitness coach, I think it is important to not only spread the good but let others see your struggles. My struggles have helped others through the tough times too. The comeback is better than the setback. I know in the darkest of time it seems as though you won’t get through this but trust me, lean into your support system enjoy the moments with your community and the sun will shine once again.
Tina’s Treasures
Address: 10460 N 92nd St #100, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Phone: (480) 323-1990
Website: https://www.honorhealth.com/medical-services/cancer-care/support-services/tinas-treasures-cancer-care-boutique
