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May 2023 I had my first mammogram. It was a preventative measure that I actually had originally missed due to work. I rescheduled for a couple of weeks later and I am so glad that I did! I went in on a Friday and received a call back on Tuesday of the next week asking to go back in for additional imaging. All the doctors and nurses had previously told me that this is extremely normal for the first mammogram so I wasn't too concerned. They asked me to come in the next morning. I guess that should have been my first red flag that something could be wrong! They took more images, then led me back to the room to wait. They came back in and asked once again for more images. At this point, I started to get concerned. They then asked me to get dressed and they would come get me to talk to the doctor. As I walked down the hall to the doctor's office, I knew that there had to be something of concern. When I walked into the room, the images were up on the screen and I could see it. I knew in my heart. I went the next week to confirm. I had cancer.
As I began the scary journey of breast cancer, my friends and family rallied around me. I had an amazing team of nurses, doctors, and surgeons that took such excellent care of me. The love and support I received from everyone was overwhelming. I have been scared, angry, uncomfortable, in pain, grieved the loss of so much of myself, however God has been with me every step of the way. The peace that I still feel covering my hurt on my worst days, comes from my faith and love of Christ. I claimed this verse at the beginning of the journey and it still gives me hope today.
Isaiah 41:10
Do not be afraid for I am with you! Do not be discouraged for I am your God! I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you with my victorious right hand.
Although there are days that I wake up angry and upset, there are more days that I wake up so grateful to be alive and healthy. I am so thankful for early prevention and the medical care that has been advanced in recent years, specifically because of Susan G Komen.
Your support helps us get one step closer to a world without breast cancer. Funds raised help support breakthrough research and provide assistance to those facing breast cancer today who need our support. Whether it’s emotional support via Komen’s helpline, financial support through Komen’s financial assistance program, or navigation services to break down barriers to care, Komen will be there for them.
Ending breast cancer needs all of us, and your generosity can make a real difference. Together, let’s show breast cancer patients there’s a whole community standing by their side.
Will you please join me in this fight by making your donation today?