Home > Collective Diary > Breast cancer
Betsy A. on December 15, 2017
I was Diagnosed with:
Breast cancer
Employment Status:
Full time
Gender/Age:
Female/54
Type and Description of Treatments:
Stage One Triple Negative Breast Cancer that did not spread to 4 surrounding lymph nodes. 12 weeks of chemo and 6 weeks of radiation.
How do you feel today?
From the first treatment, I had no side effects. It’s like nothing ever happened.
Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your life?
Just eating more healthy.
What is going well for you right now?
Living the same life I was before the diagnosis.
What has been the most challenging thing about having cancer?
Staying free from infection during chemo treatment.
When difficulties overwhelm you, where do you go for support?
Prayers and a very supportive family.
How have your long-term goals or life goals changed since diagnosis?
Never changed. Since the diagnosis was very early, and prognosis was very good. I am continuing with my life.
What is your work arrangement right now? What are your hours?
After radiation I will return to work full time.
Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your work life?
Nothing
What has helped you continue to work the most?
I’ve worked my job for the last 25 years. I am confident that everything stayed the same.
What advice do you have for others trying to work through treatment?
First of all, to begin. Don’t be afraid to go to yearly check ups because, early detection is key. The most heard excuses is “ I have no insurance “ there are free programs to help with mammogram and treatment.
How have you dealt with any side effects of treatment?
Since it was early detection. None.
If "today's you" could give advice to "day-of-diagnosis you," what would you say?
The first initial hearing of diagnosis is devastating of course. Think about it and get over that hurdle and talk with your doctor about an immediate plan for your specific plan. That simple. The early, the best for surviving cancer.