My Journey

1-3Months

Anna W. on December 16, 2015

I was Diagnosed with:

Breast Cancer

Employment Status:

Full time /soon to be part time

Gender/Age:

Female/43

Type and Description of Treatments:

Breast cancer stage 3. I am due to start chemo 12/29/2015. Just had surgery yesterday to have port put in

How do you feel today?

Today I feel overwhelmed with trying to find resources to help with bills. I've missed quite a few days from work due to appointments and surgery for port placement

Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your life?

I think a lot about life and what all I still would like to do. I cry more, but I have kept my sense of humor as well

What is going well for you right now?

My relationship with my boyfriend has become a lot closer. I thank God for placing him in my life to help me through everything I am dealing with

What is not going well for you right now?

Missing work, which means less income to pay bills

What has been the most challenging thing about having cancer?

Knowing that I am going to lose my hair and breasts

When difficulties overwhelm you, where do you go for support?

I talk to my boyfriend, close family and my long time friend

How have your long-term goals or life goals changed since diagnosis?

My goals haven't changed. I am optimistic that I will get through this. This is just another stepping stone in life

What is your work arrangement right now? What are your hours?

I work 5 days a week from 7 a.m to 3 p.m

Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your work life?

I have to miss quite a bit of work to attend Dr appointments. I no longer have the energy I once had

What has helped you continue to work the most?

The fact that I am a single parent and without my income my kids and I would be homeless

What advice do you have for others trying to work through treatment?

Try not to overdo it.

How have you dealt with any side effects of treatment?

I haven't begun treatment yet

If "today's you" could give advice to "day-of-diagnosis you," what would you say?

Stay strong, have faith. You will get through this!