The term breast cancer is heard so often that sometimes it goes in one ear and out the other. That is, until you’re on the receiving end of a breast cancer diagnosis. That’s exactly what happened to Tracy, a nurse of many years.
After being in control of other patients most of her life, she was now facing her own health concerns. It would end up leaving her feeling out of control, physically taxed, and emotionally spent. And she was surprised to learn in the end, grateful.
A Mammogram Detects Something ‘Questionable’
Tracy went in for her scheduled mammogram, fully expecting to hear that all was okay, like she’d heard so many times before. So when her doctor called and said he saw something questionable, she was shocked.
Her doctor ordered a follow-up ultrasound and it confirmed Tracy’s greatest fear — she had breast cancer.
“I had been a nurse for years but now I was the patient. All the control I’d had with my patients didn’t figure into my new reality. I felt I had control over nothing.” – Tracy on her new reality
Telling My Family Was the Hardest Thing I’ve Ever Done
While Tracy was naturally concerned for her own health, she recalls that it was even harder to tell her husband and kids. In fact, she says it’s the hardest thing she had ever had to do.
A breast cancer diagnosis is difficult enough but the treatment plan that often follows can take a tremendous toll on a woman. Tracy had a difficult time accepting all that she — and her family — would have to endure as she entered into treatment. It was emotionally draining and she began to suffer from depression as a result.
“Like most women though, I didn’t have the luxury to wallow. Even though I graciously accepted help from my loved ones, we all needed to be strong to get through this.” – Tracy on the strength to get through
Treatment and Gratitude
Tracy eventually found out she would need a mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation. While it took a huge toll on her physically, she was grateful for the mammogram that caught it early, the doctor who ordered a follow-up ultrasound and the advancements in science that allow her to be with us today.
Tracy Today
While there always is the underlying worry cancer could return, today Tracy is doing well and, a nurse and now a patient, has an even better understanding of the importance of follow-up doctor visits and treatments.
Self Exams, Annual Exams and Mammograms are Key
Self-exams, annual exams and mammograms are the most common ways breast cancer is found. Don’t wait for symptoms to occur to schedule an appointment as some women do not have any signs or symptoms at all.
