My 2nd Anniversary

Happy Anniversary to me!  I can not believe that I am finally at the 2 year mark.  Yes, 2 years ago today, I was diagnosed with stage 2b invasive ductal carcinoma, also known as breast cancer.  I can now think about that dreaded day, February 5th, 2016, without immediately getting teary eyed.  Don’t get me wrong, I still get a little choked up when I tell my story, as I relive some of the dreaded memories.  I remember when I was first diagnosed, like it was yesterday.  Back then,  I remembered wishing that I could fast forward the time by at least 6 months to get through chemo, then another 6 months to get through my mastectomy and radiation, and getting back to feeling “normal again”.  As much as I wanted the time to go by quickly, it felt like every day while receiving treatment, was like eternity.

Researcher shows that surviving breast cancer for 5 years, significantly reduces the risk of reoccurrence.  The non medical community interprets this to mean that a women is not truly cancer free until after they are cancer free for 5 years.  To me, each year with a clean mammogram, and being cancer free is a blessing. 5 years is just a bonus. I am a survivor.

Reconstruction Begins

To help put my cancer journey further and further in my rear view mirror, I began the breast reconstruction process about three months ago.  Reconstruction is a  huge step in not only healing, but also in becoming whole again.  Breast reconstruction is an emotional journey within itself.  It is not only a reminder of the cancer journey, but an opportunity to continue to heal.  Unfortunately, reconstruction in my situation, is not a quick fix.  In my situation, it is a journey of its own, involving multiple surgeries to prepare my damaged skin and tissue for the reconstruction.  A journey that I am ready and prepared to take part in.  Stay tuned, I will share more about my reconstruction journey soon.

Celebrate the survivor in your life.  We are not promised tomorrow, so live and be thankful for each day.