I was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago.  I lost my sister to breast cancer in March 2012 after her battle of eight years and to my surprise I was diagnosed that summer. My mother had been battling breast cancer during that time as well.  We all made different decisions.  I chose to have a double mastectomy with reconstruction.  I made this choice because it was a long and hard fight for my sister and I wanted to avoid the chemotherapy and radiation part of the treatment if at all possible.  It was necessary for both my mother and my sister but because of my early diagnosis with a double mastectomy I didn’t need that type of treatment.  I am happy with my choice and I am also happy with my results.

 

If I could give advice, I would say,,,, know your body.  Be your own advocate, and ask questions.  Love yourself enough to eat well, reduce unnecessary stress and start an exercise program of some type even on a small scale to start. Stay current on your checkups and mammograms.  Put things in perspective.  If you don’t take care of yourself then you don’t have any overflow to give to your friends and family that are a part of your life. Much Love