My story began on September 4, 2014 during my annual mammorgram appointment. The technician was taking several more images of my left breast than normal and at that time I knew something was not right. The following day I received a telephone call to come back in for more images. Following more images, an ultrasound, and a neddle biopsy on September 19th I did receive the call with the unwanted words, "you do have breast cancer." I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma. Being a healthy woman in her 50s who takes no medication and no breast cancer history in my immediate family it certainly came as a shock to me. I was quick to adopt my new motto, "FIght Like a Girl."
Without hesitation I went to Boston to seek a second opinion and agreed to genectic testing to rule out risks for my daughter and granddaughter. The results were favorable and though I know they can as well develop breast cancer it is good to know the results were negative. Further testing includng an MRI and second biopsy identified a second tumor now on my right breast. After much consideration, I did take my surgeons advise to have a lumpectomy on each breast along with removal of lymph nodes. The surgery was completed on November 18th and the results are as good as they could be. The left tumor was completely removed with clear margins, the nodes are clear, and the right side tumor was A typical (non cancerous).
The overwhelming love and care expressed by family and friends has been the strength guiding me through this life challenge presented to me. My husband has been my rock and by my side for every appointment and procedure. I will be forever grateful for the support expressed by all. Now on to phase 2 which will include 4-6 weeks of radiation. Chemotherapy has yet to be ruled out and will be a topic of discussion at my follow up appointment. Regardless of treatment needed I will continue to Fight Like a Girl throughout this journey.
Sabattus, ME