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My story begins long before I was diagnosed with breast cancer. As a child, I was adopted. Later in life, I learned that my birth mother had ovarian cancer, which meant that I had an increased risk for developing cancer at some point in my life.
As a precaution, I was getting screened for breast cancer every six months. In September of 2007, I learned I have the hereditary genetic mutation BRCA1 – which greatly increased my chance for developing breast and ovarian cancer.
Having cancer taught me to not take the “little things” in life too seriously. I learned to focus on the good things and laughter in my life.
That November, I elected to have a total hysterectomy as a preventative measure. During the operation, my doctor discovered I had ovarian cancer.
With chemotherapy and the support of my husband and friends and family, I was able to beat ovarian cancer. But always in the back of my mind, I knew my breast cancer risk was there.
One year after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer, in November of 2008, I learned I had benign ADH, or abnormally growing breast tissue. Although my doctors assured me that only 20% of women with abnormal tissue growth have cancer “hiding” beneath it, I pushed them to keep looking. I wanted my doctors to move forward with testing, knowing that my BRCA1 status gave me such a heightened breast cancer risk.
In February 2009, a lumpectomy found what I suspected and I was diagnosed with breast cancer. The good news was that we caught it very early.
I elected to have a double mastectomy, in hopes of completely removing my cancer and eliminating the need for chemotherapy. I’m proud to say I’m now cancer free.
When you’re diagnosed with cancer, there are so many emotions going through your head. During both of my battles with cancer, I was fortunate enough to have a wonderful support system around me. Small gestures like preparing meals, sending cards or calling to check in gave me so much encouragement and hope.
I also looked to God, www.facingourrisk.org, and my family and friends for the inspiration to keep fighting. I knew I wanted to be there for my grandbabies, who are two and a half and seven months old. They are so precious to me. I don’t want to miss out on anything in their lives. I want to watch them grow up happy and healthy.
Having cancer taught me to not take the “little things” in life too seriously. I learned to focus on the good things and laughter in my life.
Of course, cancer recovery is an uphill battle. There are days I’m absolutely fine, and there are days I feel very sorry for myself. But I try not to dwell on the negative. I’m getting better and feeling stronger every day.
- Monica
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