I am a breast cancer survivor. I am 1 of more than 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. This includes women still being treated and those who have completed treatment. Source American Cancer Society
My journey as a breast cancer survivor began at the Smilow Cancer Hospital, Norma F. Phriem Breast Center on Park Avenue in Trumbull where they did a mammogram guided biopsy for invasive ductal carcinoma.
On September 14, 2022, I underwent a right lumpectomy (partial mastectomy) with radiation therapy following surgery. Following the surgery, I presented with a hematoma with extensive ecchymosis which had to be aspirated (drained) several times before beginning radiation and scheduling endocrine therapy for the next 5 years.
Most people reading this probably thought that I had found a “lump” on my breast during what the American Cancer Society hopes is a weekly (or more often) self-examination. That would not be the case. Breast cancer does not always manifest as a lump in the breast. In fact, I scheduled a mammogram because it had been several years since I had one, and I had a “lump” under my right arm.
There are several types of breast cancer, ductal carcinoma in situ, which does not spread to other parts of the body and has a 99% cure rate; invasive ductal carcinoma, the most common type of breast cancer and my diagnosis; invasive lobular carcinoma, only 20% of all breast cancers, that is harder to detect and are often missed by breast imaging.
Your treatment is dependent on the type of breast cancer; different types of drug treatment might be used, including: chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted drug therapy, and immunotherapy.
Because I was diagnosed early I was able to have radiation to the entire affected breast (whole breast radiation) 5 days a week (Monday through Friday) for 7 weeks. Radiation was chosen because of less side effects that you could get with chemotherapy, such as hair loss, fatigue, weakened immune system, nausea, and much more.
The early diagnosis contributed to my being a survivor, as well as the staff and resources at Smilow Norma F. Phriem Breast Center. The center is state of the art, the staff knowledgeable and engaged with your treatment. Two years in as a survivor and I am still tracked every 6 months to make sure I am doing well.
Final thoughts on October Breast Cancer Awareness Month:
- Schedule your mammogram
- Maintain a positive attitude
- Remember that every day that you are above ground is a great day!!!!
