1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.   I am 1. 

“You have breast cancer.” I received the telephone call on October 27, 2015, two days after my 50th birthday, from a doctor who I'd never met. Thereafter, I had 4 surgeries to hopefully save my left breast (lumpectomy, re-excision with sentinel node removal, re-excision, re-excision). However, the margins (breast tissue samples) did not reflect healthy breast tissue. On March 28, 2016, I underwent the removal of my left breast tissue and nipple, with partial breast reconstruction (additional reconstruction surgery to be scheduled later this year). I attended 25 radiation treatments to my chest area and upper back. My last radiation treatment ~ July 15, 2016 ~ is the date I refer to as my “the evidence suggests there is no cancer” anniversary date. It's been 11 months. Tamoxifen (the wonder drug as my doctor has referred to it ~ FDA approved in 1977) is prescribed and taken daily for the next 5 years; most likely, Arimidex for the 5 years thereafter.

This is my condensed version of my diagnosis and medical treatment. Emotionally and physically, I fought the fight during each surgery, pathology results, second opinions, and radiation. Disbelief … tears … and continuing at times.

I am a very fortunate breast cancer survivor. Physically, I bounced back from each surgical procedure and radiation. Emotionally, I am grateful to be alive and to open my eyes each morning and smile. Do I think about a recurrence? Sometimes.

Mere words will never be enough to express my heartfelt gratefulness for the love and support of my family and friends every day.

I walk to live life, to raise awareness, to fund research, and to help others in need of medical, financial and supportive services.  I am a breast cancer survivor because of DONATIONS to an awesome worthy cause given by big-hearted people like YOU.

PLEASE join me in the fight against breast cancer.  DONATE whatever amount you can.

with much love, gratitude and hope ~ Laura  

http://info.avon39.org/goto/laurajohnson