During the month of October we are sharing stories from women whose lives and experiences have been shaped by a breast cancer diagnosis. We hope these stories will help provide comfort and courage to others whose lives have been touched by cancer.

When I was 40 years old, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and my life has forever changed.

On the evening of February 11, I completed my self-breast exam in the shower after my run. I shockingly discovered an unfamiliar lump in my left breast. Several months prior to my discovery, I decided to consciously make an effort to eat healthier and to exercise daily. I had successfully lost 30 pounds. Since the weight loss was recent, I didn’t think the lump was of concern but I called my doctor the next morning to schedule a mammogram. On February 17, my fear quickly became a reality as the mammogram tech at Sarah Bush Lincoln could also feel the suspicious lump. On this day an ultrasound was also taken and the news of a needed biopsy was given to me. At this point, I was in shock and disbelief that all of this was happening. On February 20 the biopsy was completed and I waited for the results. My head was spinning with emotions and concerns. On February 24 I received the diagnosis from my doctor. Now my biggest fear was a reality.

I kept all of this private between my husband and family. When the diagnosis was given to me, I was in disbelief but knew that action was needed. I quickly began researching surgeons and options. I saw several doctors and the information was mind blowing and exhausting. I told a dear childhood friend of my diagnosis and concerns. Her advice will forever stay with me. She told me to tell my story the way I wanted to and that only I was the storyteller.

So I am telling my story. When I was 12 years old, my mother was also diagnosed with breast cancer. That is the reason for my self-breast checks and my quick action. My mother is still alive but her road was not easy. I knew after the reality of my diagnosis settled in that I was going to have a different outcome. I am grateful to have grown up with this awful disease because it has made me more aware and proactive in my journey.

I chose my surgeon after several consultations and weighed my options after more tests and genetic counseling. I chose to have a bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. I was specific with my plastic surgeon on the type of reconstruction and the results that I desired. This surgery was successfully completed on March 31. I have completed stage one of my reconstruction and recently completed stage two with another surgery.

This journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions. It has been overwhelming and exhausting to continue life as normal with two active children and a full time job in education. Every day I vowed to show my children strength and dignity. I am a fighter and I never backed down from the hard decisions and the path in front of me. It has been a rough road at times, but I am grateful that I had my past to guide me in my present and future decisions. Every doctor that I consulted with said that the weight loss aided in my discovery of the lump, which was stage one and self-contained.

I am an advocate for healthy eating and exercise. It saved my life.