My Story
I never planned on becoming a breast cancer survivor because, like most people, I never planned on having cancer. When you’re a young woman, breast cancer is the last thing on your mind. I naively believed it only happened to older women and there was certainly no room in my busy life for such an interruption. I was 34 years of age when I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and about to learn that cancer is no respecter of age.
And now for the story behind the blog….
Following my diagnosis, I underwent nine months of treatment – surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and brachytherapy. I felt as if I had a new full-time job on my hands, a project which took up all my time. It was structured around appointments and moved through defined stages to a clear end goal. While I found the treatment grueling at times, I had my family and medical team behind me. It was only when treatment ended and that structure fell apart, that the full impact of what had happened hit me. I felt cut adrift. There is an expectation that when you walk out of hospital on that final day of treatment, your cancer story has ended, but the reality is that in many ways you story is only just beginning.
The apparent randomness of a cancer diagnosis can shake your sense of identity to its very core and afterwards nothing will ever feel certain again. Facing your mortality at an early age changes you. In my search to make sense of the experience of cancer and integrate it into my life, I started Journeying Beyond Breast Cancer. While I found many blogs, chat forums and websites with great advice for those newly diagnosed, or going through treatment, I found it harder to access information on how to deal with the post-treatment limbo I found myself in. I passionately believe that more follow-up care is needed to give recognition to the post-treatment phase of cancer survivorship.
One of the most valuable things we can do to heal one another is listen to each other’s stories ~ Rebecca Falls
Sometimes there can be a code of silence surrounding the aftermath of cancer treatment. We can experience feelings of fatigue, guilt, loneliness or depression, alongside feelings of gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose. As we transition from the treatment phase of survivorship, we are not always prepared for the maelstrom of mixed emotions which can hit us. I wanted to provide a space for survivors to share their experiences – the good, the bad and the ugly, so you will find many stories here of how others are journeying beyond their cancer treatment. In listening to these stories my hope is that your own journey of discovery and healing can be enriched too.
I am a photograpy student working on a project about people who are surviving cancer.Having received treatment myself for cervical cancer,i am hoping to create a positive portfolio of images of individuals who are fighting back against this disease and managing to live their life to the full.There is no commercial aspect to this project.although it is part of my studies,it is very much a personal body of work.If you think you may have any friends interested in having some images taking for this project,i would be grateful if you would please pass on my email addresse at deniselynch@me.com.
Thanks in advance
Denise Lynch
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I would be interested in hearing more about your project.
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Great to finally read your blog and meet a like minded survivor who likes to be informed and a great advocate for other’s!
I love the inspiring statement at the end too Marie and am sure we’ll meet on one of our many volunteer projects at somepoint:)
Tricia
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Best of luck JBBC,
Your blog is a breath of fresh air and you easily deserve the recognition you’re getting. Hopefully the 2010 Irish blog awards are watching, I didnt realise they were that close so I put in a nomination today and must remind a few friends in case they dont know. Theyre huge fans of your blog so just in case, ill let them know how close the awards are.
Best of luck with the awards and keep up the fantastic work
From one of your fans in Sligo
sligocentre.net
@Denise Lynch,
Denise Ill mail you a link to some web albums, theyre photos from our campaigns, protest and even the odd celebration, if you wanted to use some, I couldnt see a problem.
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Well done on your blog. It is very good to see something positive written about cancer.
My mum had bowel cancer 6 years ago, she has beaten it and is doing really well now.
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Hi Val – yes there are lots of positive and life affirming stories out there. If cancer is caught early we have a good chance of survival. Awareness is the key though, so we need to get the message out there 🙂
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I’m the author of Everything Changes: The Insider’s Guide to Cancer in Your 20s and 30s. When I was interviewing patients for my book, I heard over and over that there is so little support for and understanding of how hard it is to deal with life after treatment. I concur.
Your blog and the subject matter is so very needed. I applaud you and look forward to reading more.
Best,
Kairol
http://everythingchangesbook.com/
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Dear Marie,
Fantastic site, your an inspiration.
Keep up the good work,
Eamonn
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Go raibh mile maith agat mo chara dhilis 🙂
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You are an inspiration to all; your encouragement and willingness to continue education after your pain and suffering is the meaning of true sister and brotherhood
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Oh Cathy, anam cara, so excited to see your comment today – thank you. And YOU inspire me too xxxxx
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great blog you seems a fighter person you fight to cancer you fight for live
i know what cancer can do because my father died of that and the cancer is very close to me friends, family and i can say that admire the way you present your battle and the battle of all the people that encompasses with your owns one.
you are doing a great job for others to take concius to lose fear and to fight to live.
from uruguay i send my admiration for you and all that are fighting every day to cancer.
ana cecilia = cherry1971
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Thank you for so many wonderful ‘tweets’ and your blog. So essential. Cancer is intense but eye-opening. Here we are, cancer free (keep living strong!) with this incredible take on the world. I’m 11 years now……and grateful, grateful for life’s blessings.
Jody
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Hi Jody, I really appreciate you taking the time to comment on my blog. It is so heartening to hear of someone doing so well after 11 years..am off now to check on your blog and your take on the world 🙂
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i am looking for contact details of Patience Mutakwa, a patient you featured on this website, please assist me with her email
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I am sorry Virginia but I do not have the contact details of Patience Mutakwa, nor do I know her personally.
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I have jst come upon your blog and spent the last half hour reading through your many many excellent posts. You truly are an inspiration to the rest of us on this journey and I look fwd to journeying alongside you.
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Again what an inspiring site! It is really fun to read, plus there is an extra bonus of seeing James Wong! lol Keep it up Ill be following! x
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Hello,
I wanted to first thank you for blogging about our website a few weeks a go. I recently read your post and wanted to touch base with you. My mom and paternal grandmother are breast cancer survivors. For the past 11 years I have had yearly mammograms and MRI’s and each time I’m fearful that they will find something.
I firmly believe that exercise so important in the fight against cancer. That is one of the main reasons we started this website. We want women to realize that they can squeeze in exercise no matter what.
For the month of October we will be turning our site pink and putting up exercises for women who are currently going through treatments, recently completed treatments or relaxing stretches for women who are going in for mammograms or other testing.
I would like to talk to you and find out what type of exercises or stretches that you found helpful. If possibly could you email me at Jenny@squeezeitin.com.
Once again thank you for blogging about our site. Your site is wonderful and a great resource to all women.
All the best,
Jenny Hein
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What a wonderful blog and great resource for people whose lives are touched by cancer in one way or another. I’m so glad that I discovered it via Twitter today. I was diagnosed at the age of 25 and six years later I feel that I am still coming to terms with my experience. I think that you have captured the sense of loneliness and uncertainty that one feels post treatment and it’s wonderful to see how much you have thrown yourself into helping others to work through this critical stage of the recovery process.
Looking forward to your tweets and blog posts!
Px
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You recently commented on a WOW Blog Tour Launch for Sara Morgan and I was wondering if you be interested in featuring one of our books on your blog? Caryn Goldberg, poet laureate of Kansas, recently wrote a memoir on her battle with cancer(both hers and her father’s)and we’d love to visit your blog.
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you are such an inspiration to young survivors everywhere – i follow your blog every day – where do you get the time to write so regularly??? 🙂
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What a delightful blog. As I too am on the healing journey, I have enjoyed reading your insights, thoughts and ideas. As time permits, I look forward to reading your past posts. I am especially interested in your thoughts on health and wellness post treatment. Keep up the great work!
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Thanks so much for stopping by Kim and I am looking forward to following your posts too 🙂
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Hello,,, On Wed. 10/21/09 I wached channel2,(Click2houston.com),,, ,,, A Survivor who I could Talk toabout many issues,,, Saw that you stated a group that could provide me with a Mentor,,, Someone I can talk to,,,
Pleae Advise of Where I go online to get in touch with this program.
Thanks ,,, Mary,,,
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Hi Marisela, you have mixed me up with someone else – but I will see what I can find out for you and get back in touch as soon as I do. Best Regards to you.
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Hi Marisela,
I am a three year breast cancer survivor and I have talked to many women going through their journey and beyond. I have taken a peer support program with the cancer society and if you wish to try me out you can reach me at micelisandra147@rogers.com. No strings attached.
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Wonderful blog! You have really helped me along on my own journey
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Great blog. I am on the same journey and blogging about it, so you can imagine how much I enjoyed finding your blog. Great job.
Be Well
Jo-Ann (www.ooopsonline.com)
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Thanks for taking the time to comment Jo-Ann. Off now to check out your blog too 🙂
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Hi There,
I actually found you on twitter and then came to your website. Thanks for letting me drop by.
I, too have had Breast Cancer and a whole host of other cancer’s during my 40+ years. I’m currently chronicling this on my blog as I just finished the Hodgkin’s Disease years…
Just wanted to say how much I enjoyed your site. Wishing you peace.
Lorie
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Thank you Lorie- I have been following you on Twitter too 🙂
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Delighted to find your blog – as I am very early in my journey this is really helpful and insightful.
I am a Scottish woman, living in Asia and being treated in Bangkok so my experience has many differences as well as similarities with many others.
I have added you to my blogroll as I am also on wordpress.
Mine is: http://feistybluegeckofightsback.wordpress.com/
Very warm wishes
P
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Thank you so much Philippa for getting in touch. I love your alias 🙂 I look forward to checking out your blog and wish all the very best on your healing journey.
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I love the new look of the site!!!!! And your photo is very pretty.
Suzanne
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I was happy to find your blog and this Facebook site. I was diagnosed with Stage 3A Breast Cancer on the 7th of January 2010. As a form of therapy and to help others, I started an on-line breast cancer support group free to anyone (those with breast cancer and those who love and support them) to create your own page an…d join. I also started a blog and write how to articles on eHOW.com to share what I am learning about this journey I am traveling. My mantra is: “I am looking good, feeling good, healthy and whole. I am a breast cancer survivor aka thriver.” I have asked family and friends for prayers and to help me hold this strong vision.
On-line breast cancer support group on NING network: http://breast-cancer-journey.ning.com/
Healing Seeker Blog: http://healingseeker.wordpress.com/
Thank you for sharing your story. Stories like yours are an inspiration.
Best wishes to you and yours, Healing Seeker aka Debbie Dunn
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Just found your blog and I am so impressed with the mix of information, stories and compassion you have here. Well done and keep up the good work.
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Fair play to you on writing this blog. Cancer effects everyone in different ways. Its great to see people talking about it more openly.
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Love your blog and your story is very inspirational. Continue to thrive 🙂
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I love your blog! Where do you find the time to write a new post every day? And it is always something thought provoking and stimulating. I also love the intelligent and compassionate comments you get each day too. Well done on a fantastic blog.
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I have just discovered your blog and your story is inspirational. You have a terrific blog – keep up the great work.
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You are such an inspiration. Keep up the good work!
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Thank you for sharing your thoughts, creative words, and inspiring story!
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I have just discovered your blog and I am blown away by the amount of information here – you are as others have said a real inspiration!
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Your blog is fantastic
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What a terrific blog: well written, informative, and important. I also like how nuetral you seem to be in reporting things. I too am passionate about spreading knowledge as it relates to cance. Let me know if I can help you in anyway. I run my own wepage on providing people with basic information on cancer (the average ‘Joe’on the street). So please do visit and leave me any comments or suggestions.
Dr. C
http://www.cancermadesimple.com
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Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a comment here. I am looking forward to checking out your website.
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Love the blog. My father has brain cancer and the more days that pass, the more I’m finding that there’s power in socializing with others with the same medical conditions or treatments.
We started this free site called http://www.treatmentdiaries.com to connect people with the same medical conditions to help the cope. It’s anonymous, private and fortunately (or unfortunately) you can track tons of conditions and write about them to keep track of what medication is working, diet habits, etc.
Marie (and others), I’m interested to hear your opinion about this new website if you have a chance. Thanks again for the lead on the nice blog. I got it from your post on the health in 30 article http://healthin30.com/2010/09/friends-put-a-new-spin-on-technology/.
Ray
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If you are looking for cancer support online, check out the website http://www.cancersupportonline.ca about our CD called “The Colour’s Coming Back”, an album of uplifting original songs (most based on true stories) for people living with cancer and their loved ones. You can also listen to an Internet radio interview aired on http://www.healthylife.net about the CD on Gloria Jean Sykes’ show called ‘Just LIFE” CD.http://www.healthylife.net/RadioShow/archiveJL.htm. When you get to that page, click on 9/22 Sharon Zigman – Colors Coming Back.
Sharon
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Hi i want to write my story on breast cancer, i have had arollercoster of a ride with both postive and negative emotions, i found there to be a lack of aftercare and no one can ever perpare you for what happens next..
I have gone from being a very active 40+ female to having to learn how to read write balance interact with people all over again something that no one perpares you for…
I found all the stories very interesting ..
Jenny
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Hi Jenny, I will email you with details of how to do this.
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What a moving story! I experienced my own medically induced re-evaluation when my body decided to grow a few uterine fibroids. That journey was scary, and the subsequent changes life altering. I applaud what you are doing here, both your own personal growth and the advocacy work. As I settle in, I may want to talk with you about offering my service as a massage therapist and body worker to women moving through this.
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Traci, thanks so much for stopping by the JBBC blog and your comment. It is great to connect with you.
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thanks for sharing your story…new to blogging about my BC experience. it is quite a healing process to both write about my and read about others in regards to this ever present issue. looking forward to diving into your blog.
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Hi Jelebelle – thank you so much for getting in touch and telling us about your blog. I look forward to checking it out too. May you continue to heal and prosper as you journey beyond breast cancer.
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MY NAME IS MARTI AND I HAD STAGE 4 BREAST CANCER I WAS TOLD THAT I HAD A 20% CHANCE OF LIVING SO ON MAY 1999 WENT I TO A MAN OF GOD DR. WONDERFUL MAN FULL OF THE LORD AND FAITH HE SAID I NEEDED A MODIFIED RADICLE MASTECTOMY . I WAS ASKING IS THIS THE ONLY WAY? he told me that it was in my limph nodes and growing fast I ASKED WHAT HE WOULD DO IF IT WERE HIS WIFE HE SAID HE WOULD DO THE SURGURY SO I DID IT WENT WELL BUT FOUND OUT THAT THE CANCER IN MY LIMPH NODES HAD SPREAD SO THEY REMOVED AS MUCH AS THEY COULD WELL NEEDLESS TO SAY THEY WANTED TO START RADIATION 12 SESSIONS I SAID NO… THEN THEY SAID I WOULD HAVE TO GO THROUGH CHEMO SO THAT WAS OKAY FOR THE FIRST ONE TIME THEN THE SECOND ONE TOOK ALL MY HAIR I WAS A HAIR STYLISET BEAUTIFUL LONG REAL BLONDE HAIR THEN LOOSING MY BREAST WAS RATHER HARSH . OFTER THE 2 CHEMO TREATMENT I GOT REAL SICK AND COULD’NT HAVE ANY AT THAT TIME ,THEN I HAD MY 3 TREATMENT ,THE DR.’S CALLED IT THE RED DEATH BY THE TIME I GOT TO MY 3 TREATMENT I WAS SO SICK I SAID THIS IS EXISTING NOT LIVING AND SAID NO MORE I’LL TAKE MY CHANCES WITH GOD MY ONCOLIGIST LOOKED AT ME FUNNY AND SAID IF WE STILL FIND CANCER IN YOUR BLOOD WE START TREATMENT AGAIN BECAUSE I HAD 3 MORE TO GO . I TOLD MY ONCOLIGIST HE DID’NT HAVE THE FAITH THAT I DID AND I TOLD HIM THAT I’M LEAVEING IT UP TO GOD HE SAID WE WILL SEE YOUR BLOOD TEST NEXT MONTH SO I WAITED PRAYED WENT TO HEALING SERVICES AND WAS ON A VERY LONG PRAYER CHAIN I HAD GOOD POSSITIV FAMILY AROUND ME ALL THE TIME. WELL ONE MONTH CAME AND BLOOD WAS DRAWN. IN HIS OFFICE HE LOOKED AT ALL THE BLOOD SCREENINGS AND LOOKED AT ME AND SAID I NEED TO DRAW MORE BLOOD SO WE DID AND IT CAME BACK THE SAME I HAD NO CANCER AT ALL NOT IN MY LYMPH NODES OR ANY WHERE THE DOCTOR SAID THAT IT WAS NOTHING MORE THAN A MIRICLE. I HAD SURJURY JUNE 10 1999 AND JAN OF 2000 I HAD RECONSTRUCTION SURGURY. i AM PROUD TO SAY I AM CANCER FREE TO THIS DAY 12 YEARS AND COUNTING .
I KNOW GOD WAS MY ROCK I GIVE HIM THE GLORY FOR MY LIFE AND BEING ABLE TO SHARE IT WITH OTHERS . GOD GAVE ME LIFE AND A REBIRTH TO DO HIS WILL I AM A CARE TAKER OF A LADY THAT IS BLIND IN ONE EYE I TAKE HER TO THE STORE OF ANY PLACE SHE NEEDS TO GO .
SO ALL I HAVE TO SAY GOD WORKS GIVE HIM THE GLORY FOR EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENS TO YOU LIVE HARDER LOVE STRONGER AND LIVE FOR GOD!!!!!!!!!!
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Marti, I am so pleased that you are doing well and that your faith has brought you to this place. Everyone has their own path and their own way of healing but as Tricia points out, i would urge everyone to take professional medical advice and treatment in the first instance. A strong faith will carry you through the rigours of treatment, but treatment is essential. May you continue to be well and faith-filled.
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Hope you are doing well marti. Your God is my God and i had a 30per cent chance of living 5 years. I am now into my 14th year and doing well. I did take the red devil + other chemo. Had neutropenic sepsis once. Had 6 weeks of radiotherapy + mastectomy at the end.I did not feel at any time that God was telling me to stop treatment but he brought me through kicking and screaming.I am an x nursing sister and i feel we should be careful about stopping treatments. I would have done it out of fear not FAITH.I thank God for my life and for being alive for my autistic daughter. However breast cancer is hard on marriage so am still working on that one. I was blessed to have had a great oncologist and breast surgeon. However i have to admit that some of my friends and family walked away. God was and is faithful(sometimes i am not) He is my anchor. This is a great site.
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Marti
I’d like to congratulate you on your survivorship so far and your faith, but with all due respect I feel your story is a danggerous one to post for newly diagnosed people who may refuse further treatment as you did!
I had much the same drugs as you had (its referred to as the Red Devil and is Adriamycin) but continued on with the full course as well as radiation wanting to give myself every chance from a very aggressive cancer. We only get one chance at this after all and to date this treatment is the best that medical science has to offer us. I’m doing well six years out, and so pleased you are too, and while I respect your faith I ‘d argue the use of it here which may be perceived to be a cure by other less informed patients!
I don’t post here often but feel strongly about this particular story!
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Tricia, thank you for adding your thoughts here, which I fully endorse. Marie
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Dear Marie,
Thank you for your wonderful site. I was Googling Kylie Minogue and breast cancer when I came across the video clip you put up. Thanks for sharing about your journey, you are incredibly brave and your keeping well is a huge encouragement. I was diagnosed with DCIS (pre-invasive breast cancer) last June but have, thank God, recovered nicely after a mastectomy and reconstruction, and thankfully did not need chemo, radiotherapy or drugs.
Do keep up the great work! I have a blog and would like to share about yours, if that’s all right.
All the best! Keep well!
Theresa from Singapore
http://acleanbreast.wordpress.com
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Hi Theresa, thank you for your kind words and I look forward to checking out your blog. Continued healing to you, Marie
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Hi
I was googling kylie Minogue and came across this site. So I want to tell you a funny story that happened me. I was dagonised with breast cancer last Sept.
The Kylie story
One of the hardest things I have had to do in this life is tell my 2 children that I had cancer. My daughter was 12 and son 14. So when I told them I told them that Kylie Minogue Had cancer and that she was fine now. My son would ask questions but my daughter didnt say anything. So one night about 2 weeks later I went to her and asked If there were any questions she wanted to ask me.” No mammy your going to be like Kylie Minogue and get better” Well all I could think about was the video of Kylie with those gold shorts and giggle to myself. Not a mission would I ever be able to wear those shorts!!!!
The wig story
As you all know with chemo the hair will fall out. Thank god for wigs.
One morning I washed my wig and rolled it up in a towel to soak the water up. So I lifted it with the laundry, down the stairs and put all in the washing machine. Yes the wig was in the washing machine!!!!!! I sat down to talk to my son when 10 mins later I realised what had happened. My son was horrified when i told him what was wrong. Being a man he wanted to break the machine and get it out. What could I do only laugh! Thankfully the wig was perfect when it came out and I wore it for 6 months.
Radiothearphy
For this part of the journey I had to leave home as it would have meant travelling for 3 hours a day never mind havig to wait in the hospital. My son was doing his state exams and my daughter was on her summer holidays so with a very heavy heart i left home for 4 nights a week to get my treatment
One Monday as I was preparing the dinner my daughter turned to me and said “Mammy I dont want you to go but you have to go to get better” i looked at her and wondered when did my daughter become so wise. When ever I was feeling sad and missing them I thought of what she said and knew that each treatment was a step in the right direction.
I guess I saw the funny side of things throughout the treatment and I made sure I had something to laugh about every day……. Me in gold shorts Haha
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Hey Sister! While I read your blog regularly, this is the first time I have read the “About Me” page. It really resonated with me. While I make it my mission to stay positive on my cancer journey, I fear that when my treatment is over, the reality will hit me: OMG! I HAVE CANCER! It is nice to know that there is support there for those journeying BEYOND breast cancer.
Cancer Warrior
http://www.perksofcancer.com
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Lots of support and you know where to come looking when you need it my dear x
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Just found your blog and see we have a similar story and blogger friends in common. Looking forward to catching up on your previous posts. Thanks!
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Thanks so much for dropping by and introducing yourself to us – looking forward to checking out your blog.
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Oh Marie, what an article. I can feel your pain and am inspired by your courage and conviction to help others. You’re an inspiration and keep up the fantastic work. Although I can see your energies are focused on cancer survival you reach a far wider than audience. Thanks 🙂
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Hi
You are so correct that the end of formal treatment is just the beginning. Over the last four years I have made major changes to my life post BC. First I left my high stress corporate job which meant a shift in my lifestyle. Next I have spent way to much time fighting my weight from the drugs I am now on. Any suggestions would be great. Finally I have learned how important removing toxins from my life is to continue to stay healthy.
I will continue to visit your blog.
Good luck to all.
Jill
wisejille@gmail.com
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Hi Jill, thanks for stopping by – it’s good to “meet” you.
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Your story is inspiriational in your determination, and utter lack of self-pity, but your point is very well-taken. There IS a void after treatment ends, and learning how to fill it meaningfully, without being caught in the past, but without ignoring your experience, is a greuling goal. It actually makes me want to investigate what others like you have found to do to create full, well-balanced lives. Your accomplishments speak for themselves–and continue to inspire (yes, that word again) others. Best wishes, in sickness and in health, Candida
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I sure do appreciate your comment Candida and the support you have shown me though we have only just met online 🙂
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Well, I’m back. I found your post so profound and your point so well-taken that I used you (and this post particularly), hopefully without any protests to the contrary, as the centerpiece of the post you inspired me to write, on precisely some common mood-disregulation experiences that follow completion of cancer treatment. At http://wp.me/p22afJ-HK, I hope it does my small part in helping to get the word out about the sufferings of the newly cancer-free, just as you are so avidly trying to do. Thanks for bringing this important point to attention.
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Oh, Marie, your blog is so wonderful [can you tell I think so by how often I return?] that I couldn’t keep but nominating it for the READER APPRECIATION AWARD. I know that, given the number of blogging awards you’ve won, this doesn’t rank in the ‘big time,’ but I really couldn’t select 6 of the most influential blogs for me without naming yours, which is inspiring, interesting, challenging, engaging, and intriguing. If you’re up for it, here’s the nomination (and a rave review of you) at http://candidaabrahamson.wordpress.com/2012/06/01/commercial-break-for-some-appreciation-the-reader-appreciation-award/. Keep up your spectacular work, and all the best, Candida
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Candida, you are so kind and I appreciate your award so very much. Thank YOU!
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Hello! I know this is kinda off topic but I
was wondering if you knew where I could find a captcha plugin for my comment form?
I’m using the same blog platform as yours and I’m having difficulty finding one?
Thanks a lot!
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What a wonderful blog! We founded our campaign http://www.feelingbetterfeelingbeautiful.wordpress.com as we too felt that whilst there are many amazing services available to support women whilst they are undergoing treatment, as treatment comes to an end and women begin the next stage of their life, often dealing with new issues such as low self esteem and a lack of confidence, there are no groups that specifically target them. We would love to hear more of your story on our blog. Thank you for an inspirational blog.
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Thanks for letting us know about your site..I am looking forward to checking it out. Marie
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A great introduction to what is a fabulous and I’m sure extremely valuable blog/web-site for people experiencing breast cancer. Well done Marie, I look forward to reading more of it.
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Thank you for your kind words – looking forward to you sharing your perspective here too.
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I finished treatment (mastectomy, chemo, radiation) a month ago, and came across Ann’s story on your site – thank you – she put into words all I’ve been feeling, just so overwhelmed by it all and people thinking, well, yeah, you’re fine now, treatment is finished, when I feel more vulnerable, sad, exhausted and overwhelmed than I have throughout the whole process. It’s just so comforting that this is normal, and I’m so grateful to have found this site! Thank you.
Carol
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Hi Carol, thanks so much for adding your story to our collective experiences. It is important we know we are not alone. May you continue to heal and grow storng as you journey beyond cancer.
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So where do we go after it is all over? I just finished radiation ,still have several months of herceptin but then what? Is there support for us when we are all done with treatment?
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Great blog, Marie. I agree that we need more follow-up care for survivors. A step in the right direction? Starting this year, many cancer programs are facing stricter certification standards, with more focus on survivors. And chemo brain? West Virginia University scientists studied breast cancer patients before and after chemo, and saw a definite decline in brain activity on PET scans. Why not PET? Because no one else has tried. And until there’s a way to diagnose chemo brain, you won’t see a cure. So I’d encourage the National Institutes of Heath director Dr. Francis S. Collins to approve grants that fund more research on diagnosing chemo brain with PET scans.
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Love the premise of your blog, Marie, and looking forward to reading more! Thank you for helping to fill a gap that so clearly exists in the cancer process…
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I underwent a mastectomy last Nov. I was 73 yrs old. I felt the lump in my breast while showering. I knew it was bad because I had not seen a doctor in more than 20 yrs. The reason for that was fear, of course. Anyway, undergoing chemo first, then surgery, then more chemo and finally radiation, which I completed in May, 2013, I’m just now beginning to feel a little more like my old self. The tingling in my fingers and toes are still present but not near as bad as they initially were. I have been reading about other women’s experiences here and believe me it has given me a great deal of hope for the future. I always have maintained a positive position with respect to this illness and I credit my family for keeping up hope for me. I saw many other younger women with breast cancer and my heart went out to them because of their young age and what they have to go through to heal.
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Your story is inspiring and I can’t wait to read more from you. Breast cancer saddens me and of late, I have been working to bring African breast cancer stories into the light. May God be with you
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Good luck with your very worthwhile work in Africa
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As an American trained RN, though male, I have my sleeves all rolled up and will make a difference. Even if it means just one life, it worth living for
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i am a 5 year breast cancer survivor ! at age 48. My birthday is this week! Sept. 25th!
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A tribute to you on your 5-year anniversary cancer-free. I am not yet one year,having had surgery on Nov 7th. We do have a lot to be thankful for that the research has given so many of us life after a mastectomy. I am 74 yrs old and never thought that cancer would hit me. I thought that by my standards of lifestyle I was safe. My biggest regret was that I didn’t get to the doctor often enough to catch . Frankly, I was afraid of just what they did find.
I am looking forward to a 5-year anniversary also!
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“An Awakening”
When I was diagnosed with Breast cancer a few years back, I reacted like most who receive a cancer diagnose; first thing came to mind was a “death sentence”. However, I found out later that it was truly “an awakening” for me. I began questioning God, why would you do this to me? What had I done in life so bad to have this placed upon me? But instead of bemoaning my fate, I decided to look for the positive side of it. There has to be a reason for it all. I’ve past those five years for my first cancer.
I also realized that I was about to face a new beginning, new hope, do and see more with a whole new prospective on life. When I think of the “gift of life” that was given to me, I know that I will develop and gain strength from all my experiences. After going through all that I did during my breast cancer period, I was left with, what the MD’s called “Neuropatic Pain”; a severe nerve damage diagnose. The pain is usually with you all day; and it times worse then others. Later I was diagnosed with “Lymphedema”. Of course I just kept smiling and saying to myself, “Oh lucky me”. For a while, I wasn’t happy with the way I looked around my breast area after my first surgery, nor the pain I had to endure each day, but I decided to snap out of it. Even after being diagnosed with another cancer (colon) a few years later. Which totally took me by surprise. I had already had my time with cancer, I thought to myself. Why another one? I even make jokes at times, while crying inside asking, “what am I”, the cancer carrier? But even with the pain I have to endure through each diagnose, and all the struggles I’ve dealt with all my life, I still feel truly blessed. I think about the individuals that are no longer among us. I also realized that there will always be someone worse off than I am. I reminded myself, that I “still have my life” and who am I to complain.
One day during one of my surgeries, I experienced something of a miracle and felt the compulsion to write it down. I turn that experience into a poem and I called it “Peace”. Writing had become therapy for me. I took that poem, along with many others I had composed during my breast cancer period and placed them into book form. I was blessed enough to have that book published and it’s titled “True Simple Poems of Life, Faith and Survival”. I later had another inspirational children’s book published and I’m working on my third. I’m hoping that anyone who has the opportunity to read my poems, get out of them, what I placed in all of them. My poems are from the heart, as real as any could ever be. With the words and phrases of each poem of statement, I wish to make a positive impact on someone who’s ill or otherwise, where they could develop the strength to embrace life in a whole new way. I never anticipated becoming a writer, I just became one. I truly believe when you survive a horrific tragedy or a horrible disease as cancer, it’s for a reason, “you have a purpose” and I want to live to find find out exactly what that is for me.
That’s what I’m all about now, inspiration. I would have never become a writer, producing inspirational poems and stories, if I had not gone through all that I did. I’m a true example that you can survive cancer not once, but twice, providing you catch it in time, have faith and allow that faith to direct your path. I’ve not saying all will be easy, but you must believe.
Karen Rice
x2 Cancer Survivor/Author
Houston, Texas
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I was so pleased to find your blog via the WordPress news post. I too was diagnosed with breast cancer very young. I was 33 and my prognosis was not good. But that was 17 years ago now! I completely identify with your sense of ‘falling into the abyss’ after treatment ends, and I’m sad to hear that the transition is still not handled well by the care teams. I found a whole new meaning to my life. From being a business woman and management consultant I went back to college to train to be a nutritional therapist – and later life coach – and now my work is all about helping other people with and through critical illness. I shall follow your blog with interest. So glad to find a fellow traveller.
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Great job! After four years of treatment, I am wistful to imagine the free fall described by folks in no treatment. But I think I have had a glimpse in the moments between treatment plans. It can be so hard. Thank you for breaking isolation!
warmly,
Marcy Westerling
http://livinglydying.com/
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Eight chemo treatments with four surgeries. I am definitely at the point of numbness after five years. The Oncologist said he would release me though he wanted me to continue the five year pill Arimedex for an additional five years due to I had three minor cancerous lymph nodes under my left arm (Breast Cancer). I chose August to be on my own. The side effects already included Gasritis, a Hiatus Hernia, then CKD stage III and four weeks ago, I had a Pulmonary Vein Isolation and Ablation surgery. I am worn out from being a Survivor. Today, I feel numb at going through so much. My brother and mother passed during the five year treatment. Too many decisions, being let down by people you trusted and working a third shift full time for the last eight years has really wore me down. These last few weeks I have practically ran my best friend off, from suffocating what little time I have alone after my work hours. Your blog is a blessing to many. I am working on the tomorrow’s and can’t seem to get out of this depression until I get this shift change I requested to second shift.
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My advice to this lady would be to not give in to your emotions and think more positive. Her cancer was certainly more extensive than mine, which my surgery was almost 3 yrs ago. My confidence in the treating physicians and oncologist, as well well as the radiologist was solid and they made me have the positive feelings about my condition. I will agree with her that one is not prepared for the effects of the treatments, even after 3 yrs. I have been told that the arimadex could be proscribed for 10 yrs because of the good results in women for the 5-yr period. My sister’s friend took it for ten yrs and is now on her own.
I don’t expect to have any feeling on my right side and the taxol caused me to have neuropathy in my hands and feet but I feel it’s a small price to pay for being able to survive Stage 3 breast cancer. If I had it to do over again, I would have gotten mammograms every yr instead for the first time at 74 yrs old.
Sent from my iPad
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Would like to view and participate in blogging
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cartierbraceletlove Here is mine. Oh yeah, 120 seconds of work, and I should point out that I learned to ride a bike as early as 9 years old, and stopped using them whan I was 15 – so yes, you could say I am the pro type.
pendentif van cleef and arpels réplique http://www.beauxvcabijoux.ru/
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Hi, just read your motivational story. I would share your story with my college he also a cancer survivor I hope this will boost him.
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Great information. It is so helpful.. Thank you for publishing this blog.
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