Type and Description of Treatments:

They found some irregular images on a routine Mammogram. Repeated procedure showed same result. I was referred to one of the top surgeons in the area and checked her credentials to confirm. Treatment plan included multiple X-Rays and MRI's to pinpoint the problem area. Surgery included removal of cancerous tissue and then plastic surgery to reduce size of both breasts to match. I agreed to this plan since it seemed very logical and minimally invasive. After first surgery, I was told they removed excess tissue since I was having a reduction anyway. They were sure everything would be fine. It wasn't. There was cancer on the perimeter of the lump of tissue removed. They told me they would try again and I almost went crazy. I demanded a total mastectomy, since there was a lie or mistake somewhere. They reluctantly agreed and scheduled another surgery. Right before that operation, I asked why they had removed the wrong part of my body on the previous surgery. They said the imaging is unreliable. In other words they are guessing where my problem is located. It occurred to me that the more often they are wrong, the more money they make. They will not admit this until confronted. Cancer treatment has evolved minimally since my father died forty years ago after they said: " We think we got it all." They still don't know, but will cut you anyway.

How do you feel today?

Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your life?

What is going well for you right now?

What is not going well for you right now?

What has been the most challenging thing about having cancer?

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

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

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

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

What has helped you continue to work the most?

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

How have you dealt with any side effects of treatment?

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