I am a daughter & granddaughter of two survivors. My mom and grandmother both had breast cancer before menopause. My grandmother has been cancer free. My mom was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in the 4th stage just before Christmas of last year. This is her second diagnosis of breast cancer. The first time was in 2002. This time the doctor is saying she’s terminal. But she’s not terminal. The Lord is taking care of her. They have changed her chemo three times. She’s in and out of the hospital constantly. It’s been the hardest thing of my life to watch my mom be so sick and weak. She’s not a baby when it comes to pain but I’ve watched her so many times just start bawling because she’s in so much pain. My mom has always been the strong one. The one that does for everyone else.
I am 30 years old and I am a Breast Cancer Survivor. I was diagnosed Dec 14, 2006 with Stage II Her-2 Positive cancer. I underwent a lumpectomy on Jan 4 07 and had 2 lymphnodes removed only to find out a week later that they did not get all the cancer and it had spread to my lymphnodes. I underwent a full mastectomy and node removal on Jan 22 07 and began chemo that Feb until May 30th of 07. I also did a year of Herceptin, which I finished in Jan of this year. It has been a long journey and I still have a long way to go, but I know I will beat this. I know with help, we can find a way to prevent it all togther. Let’s not just get excited about the fight during October, but every day of the year. God Bless those who continue their fight, we will beat this!!!
I am a survivor of breast Ca. for 14 years. The worst thing about cancer is the record I have set for 2 daughters and 2 granddaughters. That was so sad because there was no other cancer in my family . I wish I could have the linage of cancer in my family. I had a left mastectomy and 12 lumps removed. God healed my body and I praise His Holy name and give Him the Glory.
I am a breast cancer survivor. I was diagnosed with stage IIB breast cancer on 7/01/07. I underwent a radical mastectomy on 7/25/07 of my right breast. I had lymph node involvement 2 of 13. I have undergone chemo and radiation as well as the removal of my ovaries since my cancer was estrogen positive. I have an older sister who had in situ and my courageous younger sister will be undergoing a bilateral prof. mast. in December. I am a single mother. My son shaved his head to support me when I lost my hair to cancer. Cancer has been a blessing in my life because it has changed my outlook about life. I never miss the opportunity to say I love you to my family and friends who stood by me through my cancer treatment. At the time of my diagnosis I had a female manager who dropped my rating and advised me “you don’t get a pass for being sick”. Despite the lack of support I went on to find a better job with all male management who have supported me. God never sent me more than I could handle and I am grateful for my wonderful team of female doctors(Dr. Crowley, Dr. Elkordy and Dr. Sidhu) who healed me with traditional medicine, mental support and a ton of hugs.
Yes this is Breast Cancer Awareness month..One wish is that no woman have to go through breast cancer..SO check yourself..have a mammogram..when you do have the diagnosis ..fight it with all your strength..your attitude is your defense..with God ..if he brought you to it..he will be with you during it..God Bless
I am a 9 year survivor, when i found out i had breast cancer i had just got engaged and was planning my wedding! At the time I did not have insurance and the race for the cure/american cancer society helped me so much with providing me with the vouchers needed to have the test and surgeries to keep me alive. I am forever greatful to the Susan G. Komen foundation and I did my first race one month after my mastectomy and I will continue do walk every year i am alive! I think it is a shame how they send us women home the next day after our surgeries because of insurance, you have just lost a speacial part of your body, you are emotinal, scared and usually have a drain and you are sent home the next day, this needs to stop! We all need to ban together and find a cure and stop Breast Cancer once and for all! As well as the fact we are sent home from a major surgery the next day!
I lost my mother to breast cancer 10 1/2 years ago… and she fought the beast for 9 years. I have participated in three Avon 2Day 39.3 mile walks, and three Susan G. Komen 3Day 60 mile walks. I really thought I would take a break next year and just volunteer… and then my son came home from school with a paper he wrote about something he would like to invent…
“I would like to invent a cure for breast cancer. The reason why is to stop this from taking children’s Moms & Dads. Breast Cancer had taken my grandmother FIVE DAYS before I was born, ten years go. My inspiration is to see my Mom raise money for the the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Three Day Walk. What a wonderful world it would be without Breast Cancer!”
My son wrote this in fourth grade, and apparently it touched the teacher so much, because she had fought her own fight with Breast Cancer the year before, that she held onto it. He is now in fifth grade and the paper came home last Friday. Timing really is everything… because after walking the 3Day in Chicago this year, I decided I would take a break from the walks… I would pass the torch onto someone else… With this letter reminding me how important our actions are and how much I have influenced my son, I will be walking in the 3Day next year also! If we all can make an impact on today’s youth, my son would be right… What a Wonderful World this would be.
Hi, I was diagnosed in 11/07, I underwent a mastecomy on the right side with 19 nodes removed, 1 being postive, I feel very lucky to still be here, & have such a diffrent out look on life. Thank you to the Susan B Komen & Orchard of Hope, to my Dr Kaiser, Dr. Blaizet, all the nurses, my wonderful husband, all my family, & my support groups down at The Parrot, Marv’s, last, but not least, Our Heavenly Father. Bobbie
My Mother died of breast cancer when I was 12. I am now 49 and every year when I get my Mammograms I get so nervous waiting for the results. I have had five biopsies. When my Mom when to her Dr. in Alaska he said that her Mammogram was fine, we moved to Kc six months later and she had to have her breast removed. The Cancer spread so fast it killed her within a year. My sisters and I had to give her shots and watch her cry every day because her hair was falling out!! She died at home in my little sisters arms and I will never get that day out of my mind, so please get checked by your Dr. and if necessary get a second opinion. I love my Mother and I wish she could of been there as I was growing up, God Bless you Mom !Debbie in K.C. MO
My Mother found out she had breast cancer 8 years ago. She inspires me, because being alone, after a divorce, she went to work for the first time in her life. Through chemo and radiation, she worked the entire time. She went and bought a wig and then decided she would not wear it. She was proud. It’s been 5 years cancer free with tomaxafin. Her attitiude made the difference. She did not sit around and cry. She still has health problems, however, she keeps on going. GOD bless every one with cancer and remember you are not alone and attituide can make all the difference.
I am a breast cacner survivior. I was diagonized in 6-05. I found the lump my self , I had a mammogram in Oct of the year before. I had a left mastocomy in June 05 and lymphsnodes removed but they were all negative. I had 4 chemo treatments. I am still cancer free with the Grace of God. I also lost a sister-in-law in 4-06 of breast cancer. She was diagonized a year before i was but she had inflammatory breast cancer. She struggled and fought so hard but in the end the good Lord took her from her suffering. I hope that one day there will be a cure for this. Miss you Carol Donna Ripplemead,Va
As awareness of breast cancer spreads this October on blogs, message boards and in the media, little will be heard about the most aggressive and deadly form of breast carcinoma, Inflammatory Breast Cancer or (IBC). IBC can strike young women, post-menopausal women, and quite frequently nursing mothers. It can present with one or more of these symptoms, swelling, rash, thickening of breast tissue, orange peel appearance, and in later stages inverted nipple and/or bruised appearance. IBC grows in sheets through the skin & lymphatics of the breast and spreads quickly, often in weeks, becoming metastatic. It is frequently misdiagnosed and mistreated. Swift diagnosis is crucial, by skin punch biopsy or core needle biopsy. It does not always present with a lump, and therefore cannot be seen on a mammogram. Ultrasound and MRI are the best screening tools.
I post this in the hopes of saving a young mother, a wife, a grandmother and yes possibly a young teen.
I was diagnosed with this deadly cancer Jan. 31, 2007. I thought I had a breast infection because of swelling and thickness. Some of the best doctors in my state also thought that was the case, but I just felt a sense of urgency to push for a biopsy. THIS SAVED MY LIFE !
I was diagnosed within 3-4 weeks of my first symptoms and I was fortunate because I found the leading expert on this rare cancer at the IBC Clinic, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, and had insurance coverage for my lengthy treatment. I have made 29 round trips to Houston from my home in Michigan the past 20 months to slay this beast.
There have been many struggles along this IBC journey, but most recently an unexpected loss of income and insurance coverage was most crushing (a result of our country’s current economic crisis). Myself and my family now face financial worry, hardship and medical care crisis. I don’t know how we will weather this current storm, but I do believe that prayers bring miracles.
I found this blog in searching for the upcoming Lifetime movie special “Living Proof” the moving true story of Dr. Dennis Slamon, the UCLA doctor who developed the life saving breast cancer drug, Herceptin 2, and his relentless battle to keep the drug trials afloat and save the lives of thousands of women.
Dr. Slamon is one of the TRUE HEROS in this unending battle to eliminate breast cancer. The tenacity of his spirit in the development of this drug which has proved to be a miracle for many women with this aggressive Her2 marker (myself included) and has been a profound turning point in the way breast cancer is treated by targeting receptors on the cancer cell.
I was most fortunate to have had a consultation with this wonderful doctor, and urge you all to tune in Sun., Oct. 19th and watch this amazing story.
As breast cancer survivors….we all owe Dr. Slamon our deepest, heartfelt gratitude.
Blessings to you all !
Valerie
P.S. I would love to hear from other IBC sisters out there.
I AM 41 YEARS OLD AND I HAVE HAD BREAST CANCER 4 TIMES NOW. AT FIRST ALL I COULD DO WAS ASK GOD WHY? MY FIRST HUSBAND LEFT ME THE DAY BEFORE MY VERY FIRST SURGERY,ALONE WITH TWO KIDS AT THE AGE OF 21. THREE YEARS AGO IT NOT ONLY CAME BACK IN MY BREAST BUT IN MY UTERUS AND CEVIX AS WELL.I HAD JUST BEEN MARRIED TO THE MOST WONDERFULL MAN,A VERY GODLY MAN ONLY ONE YEAR AND HE HAD NEVER BEEN THRU ANYTHING LIKE THIS BEFORE. I BEGGED HIM TO LEAVE ME BUT HE SAID NO WAY HE WAS HERE FOR GOOD,WHATEVER LENGTH OF TIME THAT MIGHT BE. I I HAD A TOTAL OF 8 SURGERIES IN 3 MONTHS FOLLOWED BY THE WONDERFULL CHEMO AND RADIATION.EVERY MORNING WHEN I WAKE UP I THINK MY HEAVENLY FATHER FOR GIVING ME ANOTHER WONDERFULL DAY.IF ANY OF YOU KNOW WHERE I MIGHT CAN GET INSURANCE PLEASE EMAIL ME. DURING EVERYTHING 3 YEARS AGO WITH MY CANCER MY INS. COMPANY DROPPED ME AND I CANT SEEM TO FIND ANY WORTH ANYTHING. I WANT YOU ALL TO KNOW WE ALL HAVE THAT COMMON BOND AND I LOVE YOU ALL.MAY GOD KEEP ON SENDING HIS BLESSINGS.I HD A TOTAL OF 13 SURGERIES IN 17 YEARS SO I HOPE 13 IS MY LUCKY NUMBER (HA HA). AND REMEMBER LADIES NO MATTER WHAT THEY HAVE TOOK OFF OR OUT WE ARE STILL BEAUTIFUL.LOVE AND GOD BLESS. TRUDY GARNER,41 IN CANDLER,NC
With devine blessings breast cancer doesn’t run in my family. But on the other hand, uterine cancer does. My mom was diagnosed with it twice. The first time was in August of 1981.
Hello all! I too am a survivor…My journey started August 2008 when I found a large mass in my left breast. It’s location was a very unusual one…..on the sternum side of the breast. I knew deep down that it was cancer and when I was given my Dx of stage 2 aggressive ductal carcinoma ER-,PR- and HER2 +++ i went into my just do it mode.
When I look back at this experience I am amazed at the personal, emotional and spiritual growth of my family and I. Every cloud has a silver lining and that is our’s. We have been taken to the mat and SURVIVED!!! I know that we are able to overcome any obstacle that comes our way. Adversity REVEALS your streangth!!!
I was diagnosed with Stage II breast (estrogen positive) cancer in March of 2007. I had a lumpectomy the following month. Tests showed no activity in my lymph nodes, but my surgeon removed two at the time of surgery. Well, one showed positive so…she went back two weeks later and removed the rest of the lymph nodes which showed cancer positive in one. I thank God for giving her the insight to dig a little deeper even though tests showed nothing. I went through 8 weeks of chemo followed by 34 treatments of radiation. I am cancer free at this time and pray that it will stay that way.
I have been so fortunate to have faith in God and many many friends to supported me though my illness and back to good health.
I’m 44 and a 2 year breast cancer survivor. Breast cancer has not missed and female on my maternal grandmothers side of the family that I know. I pray that my granddaughters do not have to go through what I went through. WE WILL FIGHT AND FIND A CURE FOR CANCER I found my lump 2 months after my yearly mammogram that I’ve had since 18 and insurance would not pay for because it was not considered routine till I turned 40. 6 weeks after finding my lump I had 5 removed and therapy. I am cancer free now have tests ran every six months( insurance pays for one set of tests a year). I thought I was doing everything to prevent it and lived scared all the time. Now I embrace life and thank God for all the prayers and his glory and I live life to the fullest everyday. I have lost 5 out of 6 great aunts to breast cancer and my mothers only sister, she is 47 is fighting for the second time in five years. I read all the comments and I amazed at how I feel like I know everyone and their story. God bless to everyone.
I was diagnosed and had a lumpectomy with chemo and radiation 4 years ago. My tests have been very good. I am still taking tamoxifen. The only thing is that all that I have gone through left me with so many side affects and now I am on disability. I would have been able to retire at 30 years, but they would not let me continue to work at the same place to get my 30 years . I only lacked 1 and a half years to go and they terminated me and I was devistated.I tried to fight ,but eventually gave in. I am 49 and would like to know if I can draw any of my social security at this age
I was diagnosed this January with a very rare form of cancer called Phyllodes tumor. There was no lymph node involvement and I have not had to take Chemotherapy or Radiation. I had a lumpectomy in January and then a double mastectomy in May. I have been undergoing breast reconstruction which has caused me numerous problems and pain and I will still need to have another surgery to remove the tissue expander.
My faith in our Heavenly Father is what sustains me . I also give thanks for my many friends and family that have been so supportive through this. My attitude about life has changed since my diagnosis, I never let a moment go by that I don’t give praise to Our Father, and I let everyone I know how much I love them and appreciate them. I have a cousin, who is a 15 year Breast cancer survivor, she is an inspiration. Cancer of all types runs rampid in my family. My father lost his battle with cancer in 2005 after fighting colon and lung cancer for 11 years. My hope is that my daughters and grandaughters never know what I have gone through personally. We need to fight to find a CURE. May GOD bless all of you who are fighting this disease and all of you who support those of us who are fighting it. Diana Szakacs 55 in Ill.
read my book . i had 4th stage cancer at 21 they operated that day. Doctors waited until I had my baby as a single mom.
I got cancer again and agian it coems back every5-7 years somewhere else finally I killed it with herbs.
i investigate medical malprocatice, nursing home investigataions. water , soil, herbs, pills that kill vitamins., foods that kill pills and why i got cancer over and over in so many different places.
read CURES FOR THE SICK N TIRED.NET
answer the national health survey for animals and humans . lets get to the real reason we get cancer and I know. I will shock you every other sentence what you are not being told with 140 illness cuses and symptoms. email vpandak@aol.com if you can not afford this book email me or call 432 447 2000 or 915 205 0258 .
AS SOME OF YOU MAY HAVE READ WHAT I WROTE ,I DID RECIEVE AN EMAIL FROM A WONDERFUL LADY AND I THANK YOU SO MUCH.THIS PAST MONDAY I HAD TO GO BACK TO MY DR.OCT.27. AND I HEARD THE NEWS FOR THE FIFTH TIME, MY CANCER IS BACK, IBC.I AM BEGGING YOU ALL TO PLEASE PRAY FOR ME , BECAUSE THERE COMES A TIME WHEN YOU JUST DONT HAVE THE FIGHT IN YOU ANYMORE. LOVE AND GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
23 responses so far ↓
1 Kimberly Hammock // Oct 1, 2008 at 7:44 am
I am a daughter & granddaughter of two survivors. My mom and grandmother both had breast cancer before menopause. My grandmother has been cancer free. My mom was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in the 4th stage just before Christmas of last year. This is her second diagnosis of breast cancer. The first time was in 2002. This time the doctor is saying she’s terminal. But she’s not terminal. The Lord is taking care of her. They have changed her chemo three times. She’s in and out of the hospital constantly. It’s been the hardest thing of my life to watch my mom be so sick and weak. She’s not a baby when it comes to pain but I’ve watched her so many times just start bawling because she’s in so much pain. My mom has always been the strong one. The one that does for everyone else.
2 Amanda Langford // Oct 1, 2008 at 9:51 am
I am 30 years old and I am a Breast Cancer Survivor. I was diagnosed Dec 14, 2006 with Stage II Her-2 Positive cancer. I underwent a lumpectomy on Jan 4 07 and had 2 lymphnodes removed only to find out a week later that they did not get all the cancer and it had spread to my lymphnodes. I underwent a full mastectomy and node removal on Jan 22 07 and began chemo that Feb until May 30th of 07. I also did a year of Herceptin, which I finished in Jan of this year. It has been a long journey and I still have a long way to go, but I know I will beat this. I know with help, we can find a way to prevent it all togther. Let’s not just get excited about the fight during October, but every day of the year. God Bless those who continue their fight, we will beat this!!!
3 Sarah King // Oct 1, 2008 at 7:18 pm
I am a survivor of breast Ca. for 14 years. The worst thing about cancer is the record I have set for 2 daughters and 2 granddaughters. That was so sad because there was no other cancer in my family . I wish I could have the linage of cancer in my family. I had a left mastectomy and 12 lumps removed. God healed my body and I praise His Holy name and give Him the Glory.
4 Regina // Oct 3, 2008 at 1:58 pm
I am a breast cancer survivor. I was diagnosed with stage IIB breast cancer on 7/01/07. I underwent a radical mastectomy on 7/25/07 of my right breast. I had lymph node involvement 2 of 13. I have undergone chemo and radiation as well as the removal of my ovaries since my cancer was estrogen positive. I have an older sister who had in situ and my courageous younger sister will be undergoing a bilateral prof. mast. in December. I am a single mother. My son shaved his head to support me when I lost my hair to cancer. Cancer has been a blessing in my life because it has changed my outlook about life. I never miss the opportunity to say I love you to my family and friends who stood by me through my cancer treatment. At the time of my diagnosis I had a female manager who dropped my rating and advised me “you don’t get a pass for being sick”. Despite the lack of support I went on to find a better job with all male management who have supported me. God never sent me more than I could handle and I am grateful for my wonderful team of female doctors(Dr. Crowley, Dr. Elkordy and Dr. Sidhu) who healed me with traditional medicine, mental support and a ton of hugs.
5 Shugs // Oct 4, 2008 at 8:04 pm
Yes this is Breast Cancer Awareness month..One wish is that no woman have to go through breast cancer..SO check yourself..have a mammogram..when you do have the diagnosis ..fight it with all your strength..your attitude is your defense..with God ..if he brought you to it..he will be with you during it..God Bless
6 Kathy // Oct 5, 2008 at 12:38 pm
I am a 9 year survivor, when i found out i had breast cancer i had just got engaged and was planning my wedding! At the time I did not have insurance and the race for the cure/american cancer society helped me so much with providing me with the vouchers needed to have the test and surgeries to keep me alive. I am forever greatful to the Susan G. Komen foundation and I did my first race one month after my mastectomy and I will continue do walk every year i am alive! I think it is a shame how they send us women home the next day after our surgeries because of insurance, you have just lost a speacial part of your body, you are emotinal, scared and usually have a drain and you are sent home the next day, this needs to stop! We all need to ban together and find a cure and stop Breast Cancer once and for all! As well as the fact we are sent home from a major surgery the next day!
7 Julie // Oct 6, 2008 at 10:08 am
I lost my mother to breast cancer 10 1/2 years ago… and she fought the beast for 9 years. I have participated in three Avon 2Day 39.3 mile walks, and three Susan G. Komen 3Day 60 mile walks. I really thought I would take a break next year and just volunteer… and then my son came home from school with a paper he wrote about something he would like to invent…
“I would like to invent a cure for breast cancer. The reason why is to stop this from taking children’s Moms & Dads. Breast Cancer had taken my grandmother FIVE DAYS before I was born, ten years go. My inspiration is to see my Mom raise money for the the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Three Day Walk. What a wonderful world it would be without Breast Cancer!”
My son wrote this in fourth grade, and apparently it touched the teacher so much, because she had fought her own fight with Breast Cancer the year before, that she held onto it. He is now in fifth grade and the paper came home last Friday. Timing really is everything… because after walking the 3Day in Chicago this year, I decided I would take a break from the walks… I would pass the torch onto someone else… With this letter reminding me how important our actions are and how much I have influenced my son, I will be walking in the 3Day next year also! If we all can make an impact on today’s youth, my son would be right… What a Wonderful World this would be.
8 Bobbie // Oct 6, 2008 at 10:09 am
Hi, I was diagnosed in 11/07, I underwent a mastecomy on the right side with 19 nodes removed, 1 being postive, I feel very lucky to still be here, & have such a diffrent out look on life. Thank you to the Susan B Komen & Orchard of Hope, to my Dr Kaiser, Dr. Blaizet, all the nurses, my wonderful husband, all my family, & my support groups down at The Parrot, Marv’s, last, but not least, Our Heavenly Father. Bobbie
9 Debbie // Oct 6, 2008 at 1:56 pm
My Mother died of breast cancer when I was 12. I am now 49 and every year when I get my Mammograms I get so nervous waiting for the results. I have had five biopsies. When my Mom when to her Dr. in Alaska he said that her Mammogram was fine, we moved to Kc six months later and she had to have her breast removed. The Cancer spread so fast it killed her within a year. My sisters and I had to give her shots and watch her cry every day because her hair was falling out!! She died at home in my little sisters arms and I will never get that day out of my mind, so please get checked by your Dr. and if necessary get a second opinion. I love my Mother and I wish she could of been there as I was growing up, God Bless you Mom !Debbie in K.C. MO
10 Cristi Shankland // Oct 6, 2008 at 3:32 pm
My Mother found out she had breast cancer 8 years ago. She inspires me, because being alone, after a divorce, she went to work for the first time in her life. Through chemo and radiation, she worked the entire time. She went and bought a wig and then decided she would not wear it. She was proud. It’s been 5 years cancer free with tomaxafin. Her attitiude made the difference. She did not sit around and cry. She still has health problems, however, she keeps on going. GOD bless every one with cancer and remember you are not alone and attituide can make all the difference.
11 Donna // Oct 6, 2008 at 3:46 pm
I am a breast cacner survivior. I was diagonized in 6-05. I found the lump my self , I had a mammogram in Oct of the year before. I had a left mastocomy in June 05 and lymphsnodes removed but they were all negative. I had 4 chemo treatments. I am still cancer free with the Grace of God. I also lost a sister-in-law in 4-06 of breast cancer. She was diagonized a year before i was but she had inflammatory breast cancer. She struggled and fought so hard but in the end the good Lord took her from her suffering. I hope that one day there will be a cure for this. Miss you Carol Donna Ripplemead,Va
12 Valerie // Oct 6, 2008 at 9:20 pm
As awareness of breast cancer spreads this October on blogs, message boards and in the media, little will be heard about the most aggressive and deadly form of breast carcinoma, Inflammatory Breast Cancer or (IBC). IBC can strike young women, post-menopausal women, and quite frequently nursing mothers. It can present with one or more of these symptoms, swelling, rash, thickening of breast tissue, orange peel appearance, and in later stages inverted nipple and/or bruised appearance. IBC grows in sheets through the skin & lymphatics of the breast and spreads quickly, often in weeks, becoming metastatic. It is frequently misdiagnosed and mistreated. Swift diagnosis is crucial, by skin punch biopsy or core needle biopsy. It does not always present with a lump, and therefore cannot be seen on a mammogram. Ultrasound and MRI are the best screening tools.
I post this in the hopes of saving a young mother, a wife, a grandmother and yes possibly a young teen.
I was diagnosed with this deadly cancer Jan. 31, 2007. I thought I had a breast infection because of swelling and thickness. Some of the best doctors in my state also thought that was the case, but I just felt a sense of urgency to push for a biopsy. THIS SAVED MY LIFE !
I was diagnosed within 3-4 weeks of my first symptoms and I was fortunate because I found the leading expert on this rare cancer at the IBC Clinic, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, and had insurance coverage for my lengthy treatment. I have made 29 round trips to Houston from my home in Michigan the past 20 months to slay this beast.
There have been many struggles along this IBC journey, but most recently an unexpected loss of income and insurance coverage was most crushing (a result of our country’s current economic crisis). Myself and my family now face financial worry, hardship and medical care crisis. I don’t know how we will weather this current storm, but I do believe that prayers bring miracles.
I found this blog in searching for the upcoming Lifetime movie special “Living Proof” the moving true story of Dr. Dennis Slamon, the UCLA doctor who developed the life saving breast cancer drug, Herceptin 2, and his relentless battle to keep the drug trials afloat and save the lives of thousands of women.
Dr. Slamon is one of the TRUE HEROS in this unending battle to eliminate breast cancer. The tenacity of his spirit in the development of this drug which has proved to be a miracle for many women with this aggressive Her2 marker (myself included) and has been a profound turning point in the way breast cancer is treated by targeting receptors on the cancer cell.
I was most fortunate to have had a consultation with this wonderful doctor, and urge you all to tune in Sun., Oct. 19th and watch this amazing story.
As breast cancer survivors….we all owe Dr. Slamon our deepest, heartfelt gratitude.
Blessings to you all !
Valerie
P.S. I would love to hear from other IBC sisters out there.
(valeriefraser@gmail.com)
13 TRUDY GARNER // Oct 7, 2008 at 8:34 pm
I AM 41 YEARS OLD AND I HAVE HAD BREAST CANCER 4 TIMES NOW. AT FIRST ALL I COULD DO WAS ASK GOD WHY? MY FIRST HUSBAND LEFT ME THE DAY BEFORE MY VERY FIRST SURGERY,ALONE WITH TWO KIDS AT THE AGE OF 21. THREE YEARS AGO IT NOT ONLY CAME BACK IN MY BREAST BUT IN MY UTERUS AND CEVIX AS WELL.I HAD JUST BEEN MARRIED TO THE MOST WONDERFULL MAN,A VERY GODLY MAN ONLY ONE YEAR AND HE HAD NEVER BEEN THRU ANYTHING LIKE THIS BEFORE. I BEGGED HIM TO LEAVE ME BUT HE SAID NO WAY HE WAS HERE FOR GOOD,WHATEVER LENGTH OF TIME THAT MIGHT BE. I I HAD A TOTAL OF 8 SURGERIES IN 3 MONTHS FOLLOWED BY THE WONDERFULL CHEMO AND RADIATION.EVERY MORNING WHEN I WAKE UP I THINK MY HEAVENLY FATHER FOR GIVING ME ANOTHER WONDERFULL DAY.IF ANY OF YOU KNOW WHERE I MIGHT CAN GET INSURANCE PLEASE EMAIL ME. DURING EVERYTHING 3 YEARS AGO WITH MY CANCER MY INS. COMPANY DROPPED ME AND I CANT SEEM TO FIND ANY WORTH ANYTHING. I WANT YOU ALL TO KNOW WE ALL HAVE THAT COMMON BOND AND I LOVE YOU ALL.MAY GOD KEEP ON SENDING HIS BLESSINGS.I HD A TOTAL OF 13 SURGERIES IN 17 YEARS SO I HOPE 13 IS MY LUCKY NUMBER (HA HA). AND REMEMBER LADIES NO MATTER WHAT THEY HAVE TOOK OFF OR OUT WE ARE STILL BEAUTIFUL.LOVE AND GOD BLESS. TRUDY GARNER,41 IN CANDLER,NC
14 TRUDY GARNER // Oct 7, 2008 at 8:38 pm
TRUDY GARNER’S EMAIL survivor461@yahoo.com
15 Jerrimy Davenport // Oct 9, 2008 at 11:31 am
With devine blessings breast cancer doesn’t run in my family. But on the other hand, uterine cancer does. My mom was diagnosed with it twice. The first time was in August of 1981.
16 Michelle Dick // Oct 15, 2008 at 7:37 am
Hello all! I too am a survivor…My journey started August 2008 when I found a large mass in my left breast. It’s location was a very unusual one…..on the sternum side of the breast. I knew deep down that it was cancer and when I was given my Dx of stage 2 aggressive ductal carcinoma ER-,PR- and HER2 +++ i went into my just do it mode.
When I look back at this experience I am amazed at the personal, emotional and spiritual growth of my family and I. Every cloud has a silver lining and that is our’s. We have been taken to the mat and SURVIVED!!! I know that we are able to overcome any obstacle that comes our way. Adversity REVEALS your streangth!!!
17 Nita Pounds // Oct 17, 2008 at 6:52 am
I was diagnosed with Stage II breast (estrogen positive) cancer in March of 2007. I had a lumpectomy the following month. Tests showed no activity in my lymph nodes, but my surgeon removed two at the time of surgery. Well, one showed positive so…she went back two weeks later and removed the rest of the lymph nodes which showed cancer positive in one. I thank God for giving her the insight to dig a little deeper even though tests showed nothing. I went through 8 weeks of chemo followed by 34 treatments of radiation. I am cancer free at this time and pray that it will stay that way.
I have been so fortunate to have faith in God and many many friends to supported me though my illness and back to good health.
18 Jenise // Oct 17, 2008 at 8:27 pm
I’m 44 and a 2 year breast cancer survivor. Breast cancer has not missed and female on my maternal grandmothers side of the family that I know. I pray that my granddaughters do not have to go through what I went through. WE WILL FIGHT AND FIND A CURE FOR CANCER I found my lump 2 months after my yearly mammogram that I’ve had since 18 and insurance would not pay for because it was not considered routine till I turned 40. 6 weeks after finding my lump I had 5 removed and therapy. I am cancer free now have tests ran every six months( insurance pays for one set of tests a year). I thought I was doing everything to prevent it and lived scared all the time. Now I embrace life and thank God for all the prayers and his glory and I live life to the fullest everyday. I have lost 5 out of 6 great aunts to breast cancer and my mothers only sister, she is 47 is fighting for the second time in five years. I read all the comments and I amazed at how I feel like I know everyone and their story. God bless to everyone.
19 Jenise // Oct 17, 2008 at 8:29 pm
Jenise e-mail jvselby1@att.net
20 sharon // Oct 17, 2008 at 9:30 pm
I was diagnosed and had a lumpectomy with chemo and radiation 4 years ago. My tests have been very good. I am still taking tamoxifen. The only thing is that all that I have gone through left me with so many side affects and now I am on disability. I would have been able to retire at 30 years, but they would not let me continue to work at the same place to get my 30 years . I only lacked 1 and a half years to go and they terminated me and I was devistated.I tried to fight ,but eventually gave in. I am 49 and would like to know if I can draw any of my social security at this age
21 Diana Szakcs // Oct 22, 2008 at 5:29 pm
I was diagnosed this January with a very rare form of cancer called Phyllodes tumor. There was no lymph node involvement and I have not had to take Chemotherapy or Radiation. I had a lumpectomy in January and then a double mastectomy in May. I have been undergoing breast reconstruction which has caused me numerous problems and pain and I will still need to have another surgery to remove the tissue expander.
My faith in our Heavenly Father is what sustains me . I also give thanks for my many friends and family that have been so supportive through this. My attitude about life has changed since my diagnosis, I never let a moment go by that I don’t give praise to Our Father, and I let everyone I know how much I love them and appreciate them. I have a cousin, who is a 15 year Breast cancer survivor, she is an inspiration. Cancer of all types runs rampid in my family. My father lost his battle with cancer in 2005 after fighting colon and lung cancer for 11 years. My hope is that my daughters and grandaughters never know what I have gone through personally. We need to fight to find a CURE. May GOD bless all of you who are fighting this disease and all of you who support those of us who are fighting it. Diana Szakacs 55 in Ill.
22 Miss valorie pandak // Oct 29, 2008 at 4:34 pm
read my book . i had 4th stage cancer at 21 they operated that day. Doctors waited until I had my baby as a single mom.
I got cancer again and agian it coems back every5-7 years somewhere else finally I killed it with herbs.
i investigate medical malprocatice, nursing home investigataions. water , soil, herbs, pills that kill vitamins., foods that kill pills and why i got cancer over and over in so many different places.
read CURES FOR THE SICK N TIRED.NET
answer the national health survey for animals and humans . lets get to the real reason we get cancer and I know. I will shock you every other sentence what you are not being told with 140 illness cuses and symptoms. email vpandak@aol.com if you can not afford this book email me or call 432 447 2000 or 915 205 0258 .
23 TRUDY GARNER // Oct 29, 2008 at 8:40 pm
AS SOME OF YOU MAY HAVE READ WHAT I WROTE ,I DID RECIEVE AN EMAIL FROM A WONDERFUL LADY AND I THANK YOU SO MUCH.THIS PAST MONDAY I HAD TO GO BACK TO MY DR.OCT.27. AND I HEARD THE NEWS FOR THE FIFTH TIME, MY CANCER IS BACK, IBC.I AM BEGGING YOU ALL TO PLEASE PRAY FOR ME , BECAUSE THERE COMES A TIME WHEN YOU JUST DONT HAVE THE FIGHT IN YOU ANYMORE. LOVE AND GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
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