I was diagnosed at 32 years old, my oldest daughter was 4 and my twin girls were 2. I am a lactation consultant, RN. I know the breast well. I found my cancer. The mammogram was negative. The ultrasound was negative. I was essentially told, "You can follow up in 6 months." I didn't listen. I was my own advocate & persisted. A week later I saw a breast specialist, two weeks later I had a fine needle biopsy, four days later, it was official, I was right. I had breast cancer. The cancer took up 3/4 of my breast, DCIS, grade 3. I had a non-nipple sparing mastectomy. I was blessed & fortunate enough to have several young friends that were fellow survivors to reach out to and lean on during this time. Radiation and four surgeries in 14 months. After recovering from my final surgery, I got a feather tattoo on my foot, my first, with the word hope. A feather to represent me, my experience, my re-birth, my transformation. My favorite quote, "Let me be as a feather, Strong with purpose. Light at heart, able to bend. And tho I might become frayed, able to pull myself together again." ~Anita Sams.
My final step was completed a year ago when I had my 3D nipples done. 5 days after my nipples were completed, I walked this stage in my FIRST Bras for a Cause. To finally feel my "new normal" again is pretty amazing!
I love to do yoga, exercise, knit, read, attend concerts, travel, have date nights with my husband, my high school sweetheart & explore new restaurants.
Family time with our three little ladies is key. We try to give them as many experiences as possible.
I now try to live in the moment & find what feels good, every day
