In November of 2006, I was diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Fortunately, I was blessed to have this discovered at an early stage as a result of my yearly mammogram. Even after knowing exactly where it was, I was unable to feel it during a self-exam due to its small size and location.
My treatments began with having a partial mascectomy also known as a lumpectomy. This was followed by 33 radiation treatments. I then began a five-year daily treatment with Femara, which is a medication classified as an aromatose inhibitor to minimize the estrogen that is naturally produced in my body as my cancer was estrogen positive. Although each treatment has had its own side effects, each one has been well worth going through to increase my odds of survival. Test results every three months show no signs of the cancer.
Yes, I am a survivor! I thank God each day for helping me through this fight. The fight is a hard one but it can be won. Please get your mammograms and do your self-exams! The earlier cancer can be detected the better your chances of winning the fight.
Visalia, CA