In the hope to inspire other fighters, I would like to share my story. I was diagnosed with stage 4 HER 2 positive breast cancer in July 2013. Unfortunately, by the time they caught it, it had already spread to the lymph nodes and liver . Prognosis was not good, and we were talking about a life expectancy of months. Talk about shock! How could that happen to a very active 43-year-old physical therapist who did not smoke or drink, ate healthy, exercised at least 3 times a week, and had no history of cancer in her family. It happens…
I was put on palliative care and had 3 different kinds of chemo, multiple surgeries, medications and tests. I have completed 15 months of chemo, and I know I am not close to graduation yet, but I am living my life to the fullest. I am blessed to continue to work full-time and enjoy my family.
Life is sacred and well worth living. I get my strength from God, family and friends.
Regardless of what happens in the future, I feel that God has already granted me a miracle, and I have felt so much love in this journey. I finally understand the lyrics of the song “Live Like You Were Dying.”
My faith has deepened, I have found wonderful friends, and I have made wonderful memories with my 2 daughters and husband.
Riola
Tennessee
Submitted 11/22/2014
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.
