At the age of 42, I went in for my routine mammogram in December thinking all was well and went on with life.
On New Year’s Eve, I was getting ready to go to a party and was upset as it was raining and thought, “Damn it– I just did my hair!”
The mailman came, and I ran outside to grab it as fast as I could. I came back inside the house and went through the mail. I saw my results letter and thought, ” Oh, okay, it’s my ‘congratulations they found no evidence of cancer’ letter.” I ripped open the envelope and started to read the letter. Instead of the letter starting out the way I thought it would, it read, “Dear Debra… the results concerning your mammogram… ” My stomach dropped, my heart starting racing, and I thought, “Oh God, no!”
A follow-up doctor’s appointment sent me to a surgeon, and I was told I had Stage 2 Breast Cancer Hormone Receptor. I went through 6-1/2 weeks of radiation, which burned the living heck out of me, and days I thought I don’t want to do this–but I did, and I fought, and I won.
Routine mammograms are IMPORTANT, so no one should ever say, “Oh, I will do it later or next month,” that just might be too late! I was lucky as it hadn’t made it to my lymph nodes, and it was clear everywhere else, so I thank God for that! Do Your mammo’s! Please! ’55 years young now and loving life ♥
Debra
CA
Submitted September 25, 2018
This story is intended to convey a personal experience and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice.
One Response
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I wish more ladies would realize how important early detection. Best wishes as you continue your journey.