In the beginning

I wish I could say that I am vigilant about doing self breast exams and that is how I found my lump. That isn't the case though. I found it by accident. I have had mammograms and ultrasounds for several years as I have very dense breasts that are "lumpy".

I had a mammogram and an ultrasound in December that came back with no problems or abnormalities. Because of that I was very surprised when I found a lump on my left breast that was relatively large. I thought for sure it would be a fibroadenoma which is a benign tumor that I had in my right breast about 5 years ago.

I did the right things and went to my doctor who requested an ultrasound and a mammogram. I knew I was in trouble when they started doing an ultrasound in my armpit. For me, this was not usual protocol.

The radiologist was concerned and recommended a biopsy. I had a biopsy done and waited patiently for the results. On May 7th 2008 I received the results that I least wanted to hear. The lump that I felt was cancer. It is stage 2 and measures 2.4 centimeters. It is a grade 3, meaning it is aggressive.

I never knew I was going to have to become an expert at cancer. I thought I was safe. I don't have cancer in my family, I don't smoke, I started menstruating late.....I thought I didn't have the risk factors so I didn't have to worry about it. Boy was I wrong.

Now, here I am at the beginning of my journey. I have found a surgeon and have scheduled a lumpectomy for May 28th. I have been told that I am in for at least a year of treatment, surgery and reconstruction. I will be submitted to chemo, radiation, and hormone therapy. This is the real deal....there is no hiding or holding back now. No one can do this for me.....it is time for me to buckle down and deal with the fact that I am the face of cancer.