She Felt Helpless During Her Diagnosis, But A Breast Cancer Advocate Guided Her Through It

Rays of Resilience: 31 Stories in 31 Days. So many people around the world have been affected by breast cancer, yet no two breast cancer journeys are the same. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re celebrating a new survivor every day. Their resilience is an inspiration to us all.

I never thought it would happen to me.  But one morning, while looking in the mirror at my bare chest, I knew something was wrong.  My left breast seemed swollen, definitely bigger than before.  One touch and I felt it: a lump too large to ignore. 

I immediately convinced myself it was nothing as a thousand thoughts raced through my mind.  “A gynecologist once told me that coffee causes lumpy breasts, right?  That had to be it!  Or maybe it was just hormonal and would go away on its own… yes, hopefully.  I eat well, exercise, and lead a ‘clean’ life.  Surely this couldn’t be cancer!”  But after a few weeks with no change, I knew I couldn’t deny it anymore.  I needed help.

Unable to speak about it, I emailed a former colleague and friend who specializes in cancer patient advocacy to learn where I could get an exam quickly, discretely, and inexpensively. 

Before long she responded: ‘Call Breast Care for Washington and ask for Emily Gurdon.  She will take care of you.’ 

I made the call and received a mammogram the following week.  While at the center, I learned that the lump was “suspicious” and received an ultrasound.  A biopsy followed. Within five days I received a call from Dr. Hampton and Emily.  It was breast cancer.  I sat down and took a deep breath, feeling that my life would never be the same again.

Following my diagnosis, Emily navigated me toward healing.  First, she helped me apply for adequate health coverage.  Once approved, we made three-way phone calls to locate my new medical team.  The following week, she accompanied me to my first breast surgeon consultation.  Her presence was comforting and very helpful because she spoke the “foreign language” of cancer care that I have now come to know.

My breast surgeon recommended a medical oncologist, who ordered many tests and scans to fully diagnose my condition.  It was stage 2 and required chemotherapy and surgery.  I began chemo in late June and saw results almost immediately.  The aggressive, triple-negative tumor – which grew to the size of a golf ball – has dissolved into nearly nothing!  As of September, I am about halfway through treatment, will have surgery in December, and am looking forward to a full recovery.

As predicted, my life has changed.  Treatment has delayed some of my plans, altered daily routines, and caused mild side effects.  I even lost my hair.  Yet, I have gained much more.  I’m overwhelmed by how friends and family have supported me throughout this process.  I am never one to put my burdens on others but opening up and allowing them to help has made all the difference. 

Many thanks to Breast Care for Washington for starting me on the journey toward healing, which has sustained and enriched my life. I hope this testimonial is a blessing and motivates others to be vigilant about their health, and to allow others to help when needed.

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