I was diagnosed with IDC grade 2, stage 3, HER2+…My journey began May 10,2012. Actually I should back track a bit; to be a bit more accurate about a month earlier, to April 2012.
I had been sore on my right breast for about 3 weeks, but it was where the underwire of my bra rested, so I thought nothing of it. About two weeks later, one morning as I woke I rolled over in bed and felt pain. I reached to rub the side of my breast and I felt the lump. I remember cursing and then getting up and reexamining myself and then calling my doctor for an appointment.
I will never forget her words as she examined me, “Lori, I am almost positive it is only a cyst because of the pain you have”. Thank God she saw the fear in my eyes and decided to send me for a mammogram and an ultrasound. They also did a biopsy that very day. I knew then it wasn’t going to be good, but I tried to stay positive.
I saw the doctor and was given my diagnosis on May 10, 2012. Surgery was next on the calendar. My surgery date was June 12,2012, and my ‘quit smoking’ date was June 6, 2012, something I am very proud of (one year anniversary coming up soon). I had a lumpectomy and to follow was chemo, radiation, and then herceptin for a year. My chemo finished on Nov. 2012, my radiation was done Dec. 24, 2012, and my Herceptin is ongoing until October 2013.
I am happy to say I have been back to work full-time since February 2012, and my hair is coming in nicely. When I was first diagnosed one of my best friends told me about Fight Like a Girl Club. I am so thankful she did, because along with the love and support from my boyfriend, family, friends, and co-workers, FLAGC has been an incredible support system for me. I have cried, and I have laughed here; most of all I have met some beautiful people. I am so looking forward to the end of this journey and the completion of my treatment which also includes the removal of my port (I really dislike my port).
One thing for sure, I will remain a member and a friend of Fight Like a Girl Club. You Rock.
Lori
Canada
Submitted 4-15-13
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.
Hi Lori – our stories are so similar. I was diagnosed in December 2012 and began my treatment in January. I have completed all of my chemo and will begin radiation this Monday. I too have been on Herceptin since March 2013 and will continue until 2014. I wish you the very best and continue to Fight Like A Girl!
Hi Mary-I know you will do fine,just remember to use your creams religiously even if your skin looks and feels good.Keep in touch I am on Facebook if you need to talk and thanks for the well wishes.I know you will do fine too.Take care Lori
Hi Lori … I have been diagnosed with IDC, Stage 2, but not sure about the rest…will ask my doctor wed. I had to start out using the local health department and now have government-assisted insurance (which is great) and have a good team of doctors…but I’m really just beginning. I had a biopsy on June 7, 2013 and diagnosed June 24…my birthday is July 24 and I talk to my surgeon about a surgery date that day. I am having a lumpectomy as well but because my lump is under my nipple will be losing my nipple as well on my left breast. I am fortunate that I have a supportive husband of almost one year…anniversary is Aug 8 and we are having a party on Aug 24 (notice the 24ths). Anyway, my grown daughters are not talking to me much about this at all and I try to approach them and ask them if they have questions…just not talking. Makes me sad and confused.
But Lori, your story of faith and strength are encouraging. A girlfriend who had another type of cancer told me to Fight Like a Girl and I thought..yea..girls are tough but yet we are sensitive and we cry but we pull ourselves back up and Fight! But then I talked to a massage therapist (didn’t touch my breasts because that is dangerous if touches lymph nodes)–and she said hey that’s a website..FLAGC! I came on it and it’s awesome!
Thanks for sharing your story Lori…God Bless You!
Hi Kay-Thanks for sharing your story with me too,things will go crazy fast over the next little while for you.Bring someone with you to your appointments and write all of your dates down too.You will need the info for other doctors they will ask…I hope your surgery goes well.Please be patient with your daughters they are probably scared and sad too and the unknown is a real b*tch 🙂 They will come around til then FLAGC is incredible for support ,laughs and tears too.Share this site with your daughters it may help them to open up with you.Please don’t hesitate to ask questions.Are you on Facebook? Invite me I’m there too Lori Degrechie I will accept.I have made some beautiful friends here…thinking of you Be strong and Fight Like A Girl Always ….hugs