I was diagnosed with IDC (Invasive Ductal Carcinoma) in May 2010. At first I couldn’t believe what I was hearing; after all, I was only 49 yrs old. I had a core needle biopsy and it confirmed breast cancer. The battle had begun.

I had a 4.6 cm tumor removed from my left breast. I also had a sentinel lymph node removed and tested, and to my relief the cancer hadn’t spread to my lymph nodes. I had a friend come over to shave my head for me as I prepared myself for four rounds of chemotherapy and 30 rounds of radiation.

I finished treatment on the 13th of January 2011, a day before my 50th birthday. I couldn’t have asked for a better birthday present. I’m now looking forward to a happy and healthy life. During diagnosis and treatment you’re in a very dark place but there is light at the end of the tunnel…stay positive and never give up the fight.

Barbara Epps
Molong, Australia