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A survivor is defined as someone that learns to carry on despite hardships or trauma; or to remain functional or usable.  Now at the age of 40, this is how I define myself.  I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in the spring of 2008.  Fortunately for me, I was well aware of my body and I knew something was not right.  I cannot overstate the importance of regular self examinations.  I was 38 with a child that was not even two and a husband who had no knowledge of how our world was about to change.  I remember sitting in the doctor’s office as he explained what the next step was.  I don’t remember a word he said.  I cannot quite recall him using the word “cancer.”  I was numb, in shock; all I could think was “Why me?”  If you have recently been diagnosed with cancer, of any kind, your life is about to change dramatically, but there is hope.  I used a combination of things from which to “survive” and draw strength: my faith in God, massage with guided imagery, and journaling.


We have all seen the ads for getting mammograms or self examining- especially during the month of October, and I too would watch, but then immediately dismiss the idea.  If there is anything I can say I truly learned from my experience is that those ads are not hokum!   Every woman is busy, and we often forget to take care of ourselves, but this is where I will stand on my soapbox and tout-KNOW YOUR BODY-EXAMINE YOURSELF!  If you are not sure how to do self exams ask your doctor to show you.  Be familiar with your lumps and bumps that may already exist.  Also ask your doctor about getting regular mammograms even if there is no family history.


Many times during my treatment people would ask “How do you do it?” and the answer was never simple.  The truth is there are several things I used to gain strength and remain strong.  Constant prayer and the knowledge that this was all in God’s hands was and is my main mantra.  Before I had my double mastectomy I was introduced to massage with guided imagery.  The technique used during guided imagery allowed me to access quite peaceful places where I was able to gain control of a positive mood when feeling down or in pain.  Journaling has also become a main stay in my life.  I am able to reflect on where I’ve been, what I’m going through and where I’m headed.  It helps keep me grounded and gives me perspective.


Through it all, I have grown closer to my family, grown closer to God, and closer to myself.  I have learned to carry on; I have learned to be a survivor.

 

Article submitted by friend of spa50, Pamela Holt.

 

 

 

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