How ironic is it to find out that you are in stage 3 of breast cancer during a month that has been set aside to fight this cancer? Some distant fight, now your own personal battle. A co-worker's friend will now have to suit up and arm herself for the fight of her life as she explores all of the options available to her.
I still remember when a lump was found in one of my breasts during a routine physical exam. My doctor and I were shooting the breeze about right and wrong ways to do self exams, and what to look for, when she found it. A small round something that felt nothing like any of my other breast tissue. I wasn't immediately alarmed, but concerned. My doctor thought the lump was most likely a blocked duct since I had not breast fed my daughter for a lengthy time after birth. After months and months of monitoring, 4 breast ultrasounds, and no growth, we know nothing about the lump, except that its not cancerous. I can live with that, and to ensure that I continue to live I pay close attention to my breast health. Us 20-somethings are not exempt from developing breast cancer. Just because our breast tissue is too dense for the mechines, DOES NOT mean that it can't be there. It is on us to be aware of our bodies and any changes. Feel your breasts every month for changes, and then don't sit on those changes, but discuss them with your doctor. Early detection and treatment lends a better chance of survival!
I still remember when a lump was found in one of my breasts during a routine physical exam. My doctor and I were shooting the breeze about right and wrong ways to do self exams, and what to look for, when she found it. A small round something that felt nothing like any of my other breast tissue. I wasn't immediately alarmed, but concerned. My doctor thought the lump was most likely a blocked duct since I had not breast fed my daughter for a lengthy time after birth. After months and months of monitoring, 4 breast ultrasounds, and no growth, we know nothing about the lump, except that its not cancerous. I can live with that, and to ensure that I continue to live I pay close attention to my breast health. Us 20-somethings are not exempt from developing breast cancer. Just because our breast tissue is too dense for the mechines, DOES NOT mean that it can't be there. It is on us to be aware of our bodies and any changes. Feel your breasts every month for changes, and then don't sit on those changes, but discuss them with your doctor. Early detection and treatment lends a better chance of survival!
Hey Sis,
ReplyDeleteThis is truly sad. I hate that this disease is wiping us out at alarming rates, but happy that there are many women fighting and winning the battle. I'm so sorry to hear about your co-worker's friend. When I left Oliver & Company I heard that a woman that I worked with there had terminal cancer. Surprisingly, she is doing better now and has returned to work. I wish everyone's story could have that outcome.
Stay strong because I know it will be hard for you being at work and having to watch your new co-worker suffer as she goes through her day while trying to be there for her friend.
Love you,
Cancer is definitely one of those life changing illnesses. My co-worker was really shaken by her friend's news, as was her friend and her husband. Her friend is to start treatments soon. Glad to read that your old co-worker is doing well dispite her diagnosis. Terminal cancer is especially hard, however, ironically that kind of diagnosis can breath new life into a person. I'm thinking of Carnegie Mellon University professor Randy Pausche who was diagnosised with pancreatic cancer and went on to lecture, leave a legacy book for his children, and live out his remaining days doing everything he wanted to do with his family. And Patrick Swayze, who filmed an entire season of a new show with lots of hard work and movement before pancreatic cancer claimed him. And I'm sure the list could go on.
ReplyDeleteYou have to come out swinging and continue to fight to win, and that can be done is so many different ways!
Love you too!
Wow, that's terrible news. I wish her the best. Thanks for the reminder, too. In the bustle of taking care of everyone else, I'm often the last one to go for a routine check-up, or spend a little extra time examining my body. Duly noted.
ReplyDeleteYes, stay well friend. Check those girls!!
ReplyDelete