One Woman’s Story: Breast Cancer Awareness

     I didn’t want to write this blog.  But I had to.   If it motivates or encourages even one Vineyard lady, then it’s worth it. 

     As you know, October is breast cancer awareness month.  Really, though, every month is breast cancer awareness month. 

     In August, I was diagnosed with stage one breast cancer.  This was following a suspicious MRI, a follow-up mammogram and ultrasound, and then a biopsy.  I quickly had a lumpectomy, and now I’m facing further treatment.

      Even as I write this, it doesn’t seem real.   Being called while at Target to confirm a breast cancer appointment made me want to say, “you’ve got the wrong number.” 

     A good friend sincerely asked me if I was angry at God.  NEVER.  If anything, I was angry at myself.  Should have eaten a better diet.  Should have worked out more.  Should have gotten off hrt sooner.     My team of doctors have explained that age, weight, genetics, and early periods are risk factors.  Yet, I’ve met skinny vegetarians and fitness fanatics who got breast cancer.   In other words, it’s still unpredictable, and no one’s “safe.”

     On the preventative side, ladies, please do your yearly exams and screenings, as recommended by your doctor.  I’m shocked by the women who have admitted to me, “I don’t do mammograms,” or “I never see the doctor.”  And, listen to your body.  My first symptom was not a palpable lump or breast discharge, which we frequently hear about.  Instead, it was an odd, vague, discomfort, but enough to get me in to see my doctor. 

     If you are, unfortunately, diagnosed, begin reading, researching, and join a support group (The Breast Book is a great start).  This is a steep learning curve, and there is an entirely new chemistry vocabulary with the high-tech pathology reports nowdays. 

     Do whatever it takes to keep your spirits up.  Pray, play gospel music, talk to friends, and have a good, stress cleansing cry every now and then.  Continue to do “normal” things, as approved by your doctor and how well you feel.  I chose not to let fear overcome me.  Depending on where you are in the course of treatment, ask for help.  Dang, that’s hard.  Before and after surgery, and during treatment, ask for prayers.  Would you all pray for me?  I need it!  Stock up on freezer meals.  My kids pitched in on a house cleaning coupon.  Hallelujah! 

     What I have learned, sisters—is the power of positive words.  Speak life into others.  I understand when others react in shock or concern.  However, it’s much more helpful to hear, “I’ll pray for you,” or “do you need to talk?” than “You must be so scared.”   An encouraging text, or email, or voicemail, or message is a spirit booster.  Some, who know, have mystifyingly never asked how I’m doing.  It’s not pestering or prying to do a loving “wellness” check.

     I’m no expert.  But I’m available to talk to anyone who’s just been diagnosed.  Feel free to contact me at [email protected].