Breast Cancer: How Did It Happen to Me??

I was diagnosed with stage I infiltrating ductal carcinoma in 2008. I am otherwise healthy, and somewhat neurotic about keeping most of my diet organic, and my environment "green." At first I wondered if anyone is safe. On the brighter side, if I hadn't been so careful, I may have gotten it sooner and worse.

I found my lump 3 years before they felt a biopsy was necessary. Although they "watched it" it was not visible on a mammogram or thermogram, and ultrasound indicated it was probably a benign cyst. By the 3rd year I insisted on having it removed. Everyone was surprised when it was cancer and I am fortunate that it had not spread more than it did.

I opted for surgeries, chemo and radiation, and kept side effects and other medications to a minimum by using natural therapies. During that detour in my life, keeping a blog, gardening and art projects kept me centered and connected. They were and still are the best vehicles to carry me to the heights and depths of this journey.

I cannot emphasize strongly enough to get your annual mammograms, and be proactive if you find a lump. Talk seriously to your doctor about a biopsy. If you do not feel comfortable with any information you receive or that questions are not sufficiently answered, you can consider a second opinion. Early detection significantly increases your chance of recovery.

A year later, a friend's mammogram found abnormal areas; the doctor said it was small and they would "wait and see." Remembering my story, she insisted on a explored more options with her doctor, and decided to do a biopsy right away. Over a series of tests, they found multiple cancer sites, for which she needed a mastectomy.

This year, our mutual friend's annual mammogram showed suspicious spots. She elected for a biopsy; the spots were pre-cancerous and she had a lumpectomy with no need for additional therapies.

I believe that every challenge in life brings an opportunity to learn and help others who follow. This belief kept my heart and mind open during the months of surgeries, chemo and radiation, and continues to help me support others going through that difficult period.