For most of you April 29th is just another day. For me, this day is a reminder of when my life changed forever. April 29th 2015 was the day I had both breasts and 13 lymph nodes removed, and breast cancer was evicted from my body. I am a 6 year cancer survivor. Hearing those dreaded words, “I’m afraid you have cancer…
I’m here!!!! Recurrence is THE worst fear for those who’ve battled breast cancer, and five years is an important milestone. I was completely caught off guard when I heard those dreaded words, ‘you have stage 2 breast cancer.’ When you’re given a cancer diagnosis, the immediate goal is to remove the cancer, and complete treatments to reduce…
I’m quite sure I’m not the Blue Shield of California ‘member of the month.’ Since I was diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age, the surgeries, medications, tests and doctor visits since then must have reached millions of dollars. In the US we’re extremely lucky to have access to some of the best health care in…
Hey I’m still here! It’s been four years since my world was rocked and my life was forever changed… Read the thoughts of a breast cancer survivor…
A few years ago, if a women was diagnosed with breast cancer, it was an automatic chemotherapy and radiation sentence along with whatever surgical options were planned to remove the cancer. I fell into this category with my breast cancer diagnosis. I used these tests to make the agonizing decision whether or not chemotherapy would provide a large enough risk of recurrence to warrant the…
I competed in the 2016 Malibu Triathlon. I was asked to be part of a relay team by my fantastic reconstructive surgeon, who sponsored a team. Each year her office has dedicated this event to the strong women their practice has been privileged to care for – all breast cancer survivors. These survivors inspire others with their courage, perseverance, and ability to remain positive as their…
When you first receive that paralyzing breast cancer diagnosis, you are vulnerable, scared, and you literally and figuratively are brought to your knees. As the news soaks in and you begin to share, it’s just a matter of time before the advice starts rolling in. People make well-meaning comments that often come from a place of sadness, discomfort, and fear. There isn…
Can I introduce you to the incredible lady who saved my life? I was very unexpectedly diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in 2015. Dr. Kristi Funk was my breast surgeon who performed my double mastectomy to save my life (no biggie!) Dr. Funk is now my friend, supermom to triplet boys, TV show host, breast cancer surgeon to the stars (although I like to…
Breast cancer permanently changed my life three years ago today. Each year I spend time thinking about my experience. In a weird way, I think I might even be happier now. Read my thoughts about life on the ‘other side…
The hard reality about cancer is that not everyone survives the fight, and it’s very hard to accept that death is a part of this disease. Read more…