Q: How old were you when you were diagnosed with breast cancer?
A: 38 years old
Q: What was/is your diagnosis?
A: Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer
Q: Can you describe some of the feelings that came with your diagnosis?
A: fear, sadness, anger
Q: Are you still in treatment? Or how long did treatment take?
A: Yes, on my fourth line of treatment, I get infusions every 3 weeks
Q: What type of treatment did you go through?
A: double mastectomy, ovaries and tubes removed, rod pin and screws, radiation to leg and back, chemo
Q: Tell us how you felt during treatment. In real words.
A: Treatment itself isn’t that bad, it’s the side effects after and the fatigue that really get you. Nausea, diarrhea, bone pain. Loss of appetite.
Q: Did anything completely turn you off?
A: I have diarrhea if I eat salad or raw veggies after treatment, I don’t care for spicy or BBQ anymore.
Q: Describe your support system during your journey.
A: I have a great support system of family and friends. I have support groups as well. My medical team has also been a blessing.
Q: Have any of your relationships changed since experiencing breast cancer?
A: some friends aren’t sure what to do so some have just kind of faded, but others have stepped up in their place. I have very supportive church friends who are always checking in on me.
Q: Have you gained new friends since your diagnosis?
A: Yes through support groups and other organizations I have met new friends.
Q: Use some descriptive words to describe your breast cancer experience.
A: Roller coaster, eye opening, challenging.
Q: How has your life changed for the better since your diagnosis?
A: don’t sweat the small stuff, live in the moment, make memories every chance I get.
