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Vicki’s Fight Like a Girl Story (Breast, Lung, and Brain Cancer)

My name is Vicki Oliva. I am 57-years-old and an 11-year survivor of breast cancer. Thankfully, due to regular mammograms, it was caught early, and I was able to have a lumpectomy and 7 weeks of radiation, plus 5 years on tamoxifen.

Early detection is key for any cancer. Last September 2016, I was diagnosed with stage 3b lung cancer, and during all of the testing, they discovered a brain tumor that was very slow growing and not related to either the lung or breast cancer. The doctors decided to treat the lung cancer first. I went through a very aggressive chemo and radiation plan. The last two PET scans have shown a significant shrinkage in the lung tumor. Doctors are not sure if it is scar tissue inflammation or still cancer. I am so blessed that I have wonderful doctors and nurses that have taken excellent care of me. Now the plan is to schedule the surgery to remove the brain tumor.

My message is one of hope, love and faith. I am grateful for my family, friends and coworkers who have been by my side throughout this journey. I was able to work through most of my treatments and maintain a somewhat normal life. I will tell you that some days I didn’t get out of bed but knew how I was feeling would pass.

I just want people to know there is hope for any situation. I just try to wake up every morning and be grateful for what I have.

Thanks for letting me share.

Vicki
Indiana
Submitted 08/08/2017

This story is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.

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One comment

  1. Lily

    Thank you for being an inspiration to others. Keep fighting!

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