My cancer journey began when I was 61 years old. My course of treatment included chemo first, followed by surgery and radiation. Two and a half years later a chest wall recurrence developed. Then for the next ten years the journey consisted of hormone therapy and checkups. In August 2007 another chest wall recurrence appeared along with distant metastases to the bones. What a BUMMER! As John Lennon said “Life happens while we’re making other plans”.
Shortly after my second recurrence, I came to Brown Bag Lunch at the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester. That was the best thing I could have done. What a supportive group of women. What a great resource BCCR is. I have also joined the metastatic support group and find it most helpful. For me, it is important to share experiences, questions, and concerns with people who have been there.
In early spring I happened to be in the dollar store and came upon a garden tile which spoke to me with the inscription “Live life one day at a time”. I have placed that tile in my garden where I see it every day.
On this leg of my cancer journey, I feel compelled to give back to others, as best I can, the love and support I have received along the way. Having breast cancer is a lesson in patience. Breast cancer is not for the faint hearted. It is a test of your strength and fortitude. Cancer tests your faith in God and brings you face to face with your own mortality. I have a new and better appreciation of life and the beauty that is around me.
Yesterday’s history
Tomorrow’s a mystery
All we have left is today and
it’s called a present
because it’s a precious gift. (Anonymous)
