January 2010 changed my family's life forever. My 46 year old sister was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. No family history of breast cancer going back 5 generations could be documented. After bilateral mastectomies, chemo, & radiation, she is cancer free. In October of that year, my mother age 71 was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. She continues chemo today. April 2011, my 49 year old sister was diagnosed with breast cancer found on a screening breast MRI. After bilateral mastectomies, she is cancer free. It has been a tumultuous time for everyone. I am the oldest and thus far remain cancer free. BRCA was negative also. Our story shows you can't predict who will be affected by this disease.
My sisters & mother are some of the bravest women I have ever met. My mother is fond of saying "you can fight a bear that long" when she is sick or in pain. Never give up, fight for your life, live each day in a positive light.
This disease will certainly show you strength of character and family.
We encourage everyone to be screened. Learn to navigate the healthcare system. Fight your insurance company when they want to deny testing. Be an advocate for those around you. Never give up.
Hattiesburg, MS