I am 49 years old and have been dealing with cancer for half of my life. I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma at the young age of 24. I went through chemo, radiation and surgery. Twelve years later another recurrence. More surgery, more chemo. 5 years after that in April of 2009 after a routine mammogram I found out the cancer had returned again and this time had metastasized. I had always been able to pick up the pieces and move on but I’ll be the first to admit that the Stage IV diagnosis threw me for a loop. I quickly joined a support group where I met many wonderful and inspiring women that were dealing with the same diagnosis that I was. These women became the life line that I needed. With the help of these new friends and the love and support from family and friends I was able to get through the tough times.
A couple of years ago I found the Breast Cancer Coalition and it has fast become another great source of support for me. I participate in many of the Healing Arts programs and attend the Metastatic Common Ground support group. Rochester is so lucky to have an organization like this.
This year I celebrated my 7th year of living with metastatic breast cancer – A milestone I happily embrace. For the friends I have lost along the way – Thanks for being my hero.
“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” ~ Christopher Reeve
