My Cancer Survivor Story : )

I found a tiny lump on my left breast, after two mammograms, a sonogram with an awesome surgeon, and a lumpectomy, I was diagnosed with Stage III Breast Cancer on March 5, 2007. I chose to have a double mastectomy although the cancer was only in the left breast. I had three types of cancer and an over 5 cm tumor very close to the chest wall. Two of ten lymphnodes were matastisized.
I had four rounds of Adriamycin/Cytoxin chemotherapy, 12 rounds of Taxol chemotherapy, then 33 radiation treatments. I am taking Tamoxifen and will be until 2013.
I finished my treatment November 30, 2007. I have had two follow up appointments and my tumor marker has lowered each time. I go again in June, 2009.
I am very blessed with an amazing supportive family who took excellent care of me during my treatment. My faith in God and belief that his will be done also kept me quite strong.
I met some absolutely incredible people during my journey and though it sucked, I know I have grown into a better, stronger, more loving individual because of it.
Years ago people did not survive breast cancer. How awesome to have this disease in a time when medical advances can save your life.
Wow, I feel blessed.
May God bless all of you.

Lori Madden
Wichita Falls, TX