Getting the diagnosis is so overwhelming. When I found out I had a large tumor that had gone through the dermis and multiple lymph node invasion, I was frightened and just wanted someone to give me something concrete to hang onto as far as a plan of action. Unfortunately, I couldn't connect with anyone with cancer that had the same circumstances and plan as I did. I want you to know that VERY FEW people can tell you what YOUR plan will entail due to many factors. But this site has been instrumental in getting good advice, sharing different/new information, and getting hope. Hang in there.

My journey started near the end of August 2021. I knew when I had my mammogram/sonogram that I had cancer. Everything moved quickly after that as far as tests, meeting with navigator, surgeon, radiologist, and oncologist. However, my plan of action was not given to me until mid-October. This was a very hard time for me. I am a person that has a hard time waiting for answers and just wanted those answers quickly. With MRI's, PET scans, CT scan,, tumor biopsy, lymph node biopsy, waiting for Mammoprint testing of my biopsy, and tumor boards meetings, it just takes time. AND THAT IS HARD! In hindsight, I'm glad every thing was thorough and every aspect checked out.

I was hesitant and concerned about chemo, and my Mammoprint showed that chemo would only be 3% helpful. My oncologist agreed that 3% wasn't overall beneficial. My tumor was estrogen/prog. +, HER2-, 3C, with Ki-67 at 67%. In October 2022, I was put on anastroloze therapy for 6 months with hopes that my tumor would shrink. I wanted more immediate surgery, but my health care team convinced me that estrogen therapy would be best. My tumor shrank by 1/3 during that time. In May I had a lumpectomy (about 1/3 of my breast) and lymph node dissection. I had radiation M-F during June and July (38 regular and 5 boost). I had burns and no energy. My oncologist explained that the surgery would take the cancer out, but radiation worked like a vacuum removing all minute traces that might be left in the tissue, dermis, or incision site. In August 2022 I started taking Verzenio twice daily because of my high risk of reoccurrence. That was a struggle due to the diarrhea and other side effects. I am taking anastrozole daily along with Verzenio twice a day. I have been getting physical therapy to get better range of motion from the lymph node dissection and for strength. I had one breast reconstruction surgery in December and had another last week. That should be the end of my surgery.

My journey has been full of ups and downs. I have gone from being a very active person to sometimes not having energy for anything. I have experienced many side effects from both medicines. My care team has been wonderful, and I feel so fortunate to have their knowledge and support. I keep pushing myself to do more physically; I walk or do strength training daily. I have experienced some of every emotion: scared, frustrated, hopeful, depressed, angry, thankful, blessed and many more. It has been a unique journey. My advice is to have strength, question, find a care team you trust, have faith, and be positive. Good luck!