I am a married, 34-year-old woman, who is blessed with 2 beautiful girls and loving husband. 6 years ago, I was diagnosed with metastasized melanoma. I was told I had a year at best. I ended up having to undergo a radical hysterectomy, as well as multiple bladder reconstruction surgeries, chemo and radiation.
Soon after that I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, and if that wasn’t enough, breast cancer as well. Along with the breast cancer, I underwent multiple attempts at reconstruction, which in the end, wasn’t meant to be. I also underwent a spinal surgery, replacing 2 disks in my spine, and multiple removals of IN SITU melanomas throughout my skin.
When all was said and done, 32 surgeries in all. And it’s far from over because I have a rare genetic disposition called Li-Fraumeni Syndrome. To help me explain a little better to you about my gene mutation, I will quote some Wikipedia: “Everyone has a gene in their bodies called TP53.(tumor suppressor gene p53). Its purpose is to assist in the control of cell division and growth through action on the normal cell cycle. TP53 assists in repair or destruction of “bad” DNA before it can enter the normal cell cycle, thus preventing abnormal and/or cancerous growth of cells. Mutations of TP53 prevent this normal function and allow damaged cells to divide and grow in an uncontrolled manner forming tumors (cancers). TP53 Mutations are diagnostic to Li-Fraumeni Syndrome.”
I am officially worn… but luckily, I have 2 beautiful girls who keep me focused on how every day is a gift that must be lived to its fullest! My goal in life is to take it one day at a time and to constantly show love. Everyone has a story, a struggle, a path. Mine is to show Love. I think Ellen DeGeneres says it best, “Be kind to one another.” My goal is to now share my journey and struggles through my blog http://lovelosskidscancer.wordpress.com If I can encourage just one person to never give up, I know my journey is worth it! Never stop fighting and never give up HOPE!
Laura
Montana
Submitted 09/17/2014
The informational content of this article 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.
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.
