Keeping FAITH & Raising Awareness
Life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges our way, often when we least expect them. I am not one to share my personal struggles. Only because I hate pity or for people to feel sorry for me. I am mainly sharing this to raise awareness. I know I am not the first and know that I won’t be the last. I sometimes even feel I don’t have the right to call it a cancer journey, if I am being honest. I am not one of those warriors that had 5 plus surgeries or even had to do chemo. But I am here writing this because a routine mammogram may have saved me from all that and maybe more.
It all began with a routine annual mammogram, a practice I’d become accustomed to, never imagining it would lead to the experiences unfolded. I hope sharing my story can provide some comfort and insight to others walking a similar path. If anything, I hope it raises awareness on how important going to our annual exams can be.
As I stated, it all started with that mammogram appointment, a regular part of my health routine. I wasn’t overly concerned when I was called back for a "second look," though I admit, a small part of me was anxious. The follow-up appointment was scheduled for a month and a half later, so I decided to focus on living life to the fullest, including a dreamy trip to Paris.
Paris was everything I’d dreamed of—vibrant streets, mesmerizing art, and an atmosphere that felt like stepping into a painting. Little did I know it would be a significant chapter before my life took a different turn. I only mention this because social media has a way of making everyone's lives look perfect and the reality is that everyone has something going on that we know nothing about.
Upon returning from my trip, reality hit when I attended my follow-up mammogram. The pace of events suddenly accelerated, moving rapidly from "an area of concern" to "let’s get you in an ultrasound room for a closer look." The words of the doctor, carefully considered yet urgent—"I am 50/50 on this one and strongly recommend a biopsy"—echoed in my mind.
The waiting period for biopsy results felt interminable, filled with a mix of hope and apprehension. When I finally received the news, there was relief—the results were benign. However, my relief was tempered by the diagnosis of something called "atypical hyperplasia." My initial reaction was to focus on the fact that it was benign. But curiosity got the best of me and I turned to Dr. Google.
Atypical hyperplasia is a condition where breast cells become abnormal in number and appearance. While not cancerous, it does increase the risk of developing breast cancer in the future. It was strongly recommended that I see a surgical oncologist and undergo an MRI to get a clearer understanding of my situation.
Following the diagnosis, I proceeded with the MRI as recommended. However, the MRI brought another layer of complexity; it revealed a new area of concern, now on my left side. This meant undergoing an MRI-guided biopsy of my left breast.
The waiting game began again, and the stakes felt higher. Fortunately, the results of this biopsy came back "all clear," bringing a new wave of relief. Yet, despite the good news, I found that doubt and fear lingered quietly in the background, a natural consequence of the uncertainties I had faced. I will not pretend that I was perfectly fine with everything.
I was still all over the place waiting to meet with surgeon over the original diagnosis. I would pour myself into my work, my business, and my family to not think about it. But any down moment was met with serious anxiety about everything. I had days where I would just sit there crying. Days where I would question “why me?”.
It was in meeting with the surgeon oncologist that I found a renewed sense of clarity and hope. She was incredibly detailed in describing atypical hyperplasia and the potential risks it posed. Her approach was both compassionate and thorough, which helped me feel more informed and reassured.
Her recommended plan of action was to proceed with a lumpectomy to remove the potentially cancerous cells. The decision to have surgery was daunting, and at times, I felt as if I were on a roller coaster that didn’t stop. Before this lumpectomy, I had always been a very healthy person. This would be my first surgery ever. The lumpectomy was scheduled for 10 days later, and while the rapid progression left little time to fully process everything, I knew it was a necessary and proactive measure for my health.
Ten days after the lumpectomy, I was hopeful that this chapter was behind me. However, my journey was far from over. My diagnosis was upgraded to ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), nuclear grade 2, ER positive. This news was both unexpected and overwhelming, bringing with it a whole new set of decisions. Let's not even get into the emotional spiral this sent me into. But, I am sure you can imagine.
At my follow-up appointment with the surgeon, she presented me with two options. The first was another lumpectomy, followed by 16 rounds of radiation and five years on a drug called tamoxifen. This treatment plan sounded daunting to me, as if I were solving one problem but potentially creating another with the long-term medication.
The second option was a mastectomy with reconstruction, which meant yet another, more major surgery. From the jump, I was leaning towards a mastectomy. However, my surgeon recommended consulting with a plastic surgeon to gather more details and solidify my decision. This was a big decision, and I wanted to ensure I was making the best one for my health and peace of mind. I didn’t just sleep on it and wake up with my decision. Knowledge is power. I joined Facebook groups and researched my options extensively. I took my time exploring all options. I also disassociated with the whole diagnosis. In my mind, I did not have cancer but the reality was that I did. It was not invasive and it did not require chemo, but I did, indeed, have stage 0 cancer. Which is allegedly, the best cancer to have because it’s completely curable.
Ultimately, I decided to put an end to this once and for all by opting for a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction. Initially, considering a bilateral mastectomy started as a symmetry concern, but I couldn't shake the nagging thought about the left breast. Despite the "all clear" biopsy, I didn’t want to live with lingering doubts or fears. I also knew that the only way OUT was THROUGH.
With my decision made, my surgeon offered me the chance to enjoy the summer and proceed with all our summer plans before moving forward with the surgery. I have to say that I enjoyed every second of our three-week trip to the fullest. The time away was so needed; it was the perfect disconnect and reset before the surgery. Those weeks allowed me to savor precious moments with family and friends, providing a much-needed mental and emotional reset. Truth be told, I was still disassociating with whole the thing. It wasn't till mid-August when I started my pre-op appointments that the reality of everything hit me.
On August 26th, I underwent a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction. It was a long day for my family and friends as they anxiously waited for news during a 9+ hour surgery. I am incredibly blessed with the best support system a woman could ask for. Their presence and love provided me with immense strength and comfort during one of the most challenging times in my life. My parents have held my hand from the beginning and supported me in all of my decisions. My husband has been my rock since day one. Don’t get me wrong. Everyone has played a role one way or another, but my husband has shown me unconditional love in ways I can’t even begin to write down (I tear up just writing this because I am so blessed). I am, by nature, a highly anxious individual. He was definitely my peace during this entire process. He did everything possible to make everything about this as easy as possible for me in my lowest moments, he always knew what to say to make me laugh/smile). I don’t say this to brag but more to remind you that even though we think we are strong enough to do it all alone, sometimes we need others to help us get through. I have had a community of people checking up on me, bringing/sending us food, flowers and praying for me. I am eternally grateful to each individual that took the time to do any of the above for us.
Navigating this experience taught me the value of early detection, the importance of listening to my body, and the power of having a strong support network. It encouraged me to prioritize my health and cherish the everyday joys life offers.
To those who find themselves in a similar situation, know that you are not alone. Stay informed, seek second opinions if needed, and lean on your support system. Early detection and proactive health management can make a significant difference.
I am 5 weeks post op. I have had an EXTRAORDINARY recovery. God has heard all of our prayers. At 4 and a half weeks, my surgeon/oncologist has passed me along to her nurse practitioner because I am CANCER FREE. The pathology report showed clear margins on the right breast and my initial diagnosis of atypical hyperplasia on the left, which thankfully I had removed. I was at peace with my decision before those results came in, but hearing that solidified my decision to go aggressive even more. My plastic surgeon has cleared me to return to life the way it was before surgery. I can work out. I can swim. And most importantly, I can travel. I am not 100% myself just yet. I have some muscles to get under control and I have to build up my stamina again, but I am certain that with time, I will be functioning at my usual pace.
While my journey with atypical hyperplasia and DCIS began unexpectedly, it has taught me about resilience, love, and the importance of savoring every moment. To anyone reading this who is facing their own storm, know that you are not alone, and there is strength to be found in the most surprising places. If you wish to share your story or reach out, I am here. I remind you that I don’t even think it’s fair to call this a “cancer journey” because of my early detection. But I want my story to encourage every woman that follows me to NOT put her check ups and appointments off. Early detection is key and HEALTH IS WEALTH!