My name is Anna and I am 63 years old. My father passed away from black lung disease and my mother passed away from colon cancer. If I was going to get cancer it would have been one of those, I thought.
I had not had a mammogram in two years. I went to the appointment and was called back for more pictures, followed by an ultrasound then an appointment for a biopsy. I waited to hear the results and it came back I had breast cancer.
The doctor told me I should have a mastectomy as my cancer was spidering down my breast. I had the mastectomy and had two lymph nodes removed. My oncologist said there was no need for radiation, but I had to have chemotherapy. I had a port placement as my veins started to collapse, and I lost my hair. I did this for a year.
During this time, I truly don’t think I would still be here if not for my husband, my children, my grandchildren, my cousin (who is a nurse) and my best friend.
In one more year I will be a five-year survivor. The takeaway is: Always have your mammogram done. Never think that if no one has had a type of cancer in your family that you can’t get it. ‘So very BLESSED, THANKFUL and GRATEFUL to still be here!!
Anna
NY
Submitted March 29, 2019
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.
I ? U. You are a true fighter and an inspiration to so many Aunt Myrrheah. Miss u bunches?