A little over 7 years ago, I went in for my annual mammogram. Nothing seemed unusual until about a week later when I got a call that they needed to do another mammogram. I didn't share with anyone that I got a call back. I didn't really think too much about it. But then it seemed like the never ending appointment, with three calls back to the scanner for another look. It was a day that changed my life...they found I had breast cancer. While they caught it early, it turned out to be stage II with lymph node involvement. I never had breast cancer in my family. I didn't smoke, drink, or have any other high risk activities that have been known to cause breast cancer. It totally came out of the blue. I'm saying all this so that you will give yourself exams, and get those mammograms as soon as you are eligible. Those who love and care for you are depending on you to take care of yourself. Life would be so different for them without you.
If you aren't sure how to do a breast exam, here is a step by step description. http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/testing/types/self_exam/bse_steps
I learned a lot through that experience. It changed my life in good ways, so though it was a tough road to walk, I learned a lot about myself and I came out the other side with a different perspective on life. It drew my husband, son and I a lot closer together. I learned I was tougher than I thought I was, and that life is uncertain so enjoy the ride for as long as you can.
Having said all that, I'm offering a give away of one of the scissor fobs shown above. PLEASE share this post with other women and encourage one another to get those annual exams. Those who love you will thank you for taking care of yourself!! And if you would like to win one of these, please comment below and I'll have a drawing at the end of the month. And if you are wondering, it's been 7 years and no sign of the cancer returning. I'm grateful...and I hope none of you ever have to experience it, but if you do, I hope you find it early like I did.
8 comments:
Thank you DJ for sharing this. I just got my reminder in the mail yesterday. I need to call Monday and make my appointment!
I will pass on the giveaway as I just won a generous giveaway from you.
Fabulous news you are a 7 year survivor, my best friends is a 15 year survivor.
God Bless xx
Good to know that you are a survivor and that screening saved your life. I had my first mammogram this year and while it wasn't my first choice of the way to spend ten minutes that is literally all it took and I was off to enjoy the rest of the day.
We have these tests available, it's important that women take the opportunity.
Lovely scissor fobs too.
My SIL was just diagnosed with breast cancer. Congrats on your healing and it not coming back! Please enter me, I love these fobs!
tpatterson1961@gmail.com
Thanks for sharing your story and congratulations on being a survivor! Another lovely fob to celebrate.
I remember when you were first diagnosed...hard to believe it has been 7 years, but so glad that you have remeained cancer free. Thanks for sharing these reminders...it just might save someone's life. I would love a chance to win one of those scissor fobs...they are lovely.
Congratulations on being a survivor. My sister is an 11 year survivor. Bless you for getting the word out and for the fob! Love them!
Even though I'm reading this way late, thanks for the reminder that I needed to make a mammo appointment!
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