In 2011, a non cancerous mass was being monitored by a breast specialist and twice yearly breast sonograms and yearly mammograms. While doing a self breast screening in May 2013, I noticed that the mass felt different. I scheduled an appointment with my breast specialist and advised her of my concerns that the mass felt different. Sadly, my physician was extremely dismissive of my concerns. She advised me to have my mammogram as scheduled in July 2013, and then if there was anything found we could discuss it. 

I had a mammogram as scheduled in July 2013, and immediately following the mammogram, the radiologist told me to stay for a breast sonogram. Immediately following the breast sonogram, the radiologist told me that I needed to schedule an appointment with a breast specialist/surgeon as soon as possible. I knew that there was something wrong.

 

 I scheduled an appointment with a breast surgeon that I had previously seen. My doctor immediately completed a breast biopsy in her office. The next day I learned that I had breast cancer. 

 

Six weeks after my diagnosis, I had a bilateral mastectomy with removal of 4 lymph nodes. I learned that my cancer spread and I had to have another 16 lymph nodes removed. I had overuse cysts and my maternal aunt died of ovarian cancer. I was advised to have a hysterectomy with ovary removal prior to beginning chemotherapy. 

 

God sent the most brilliant and caring oncologist, Dr. Sandy Kotiah at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore. I went through 6 grueling rounds of chemotherapy, 28 rounds of radiation therapy, a blood transfusion, breast reconstruction surgery, and 9 months off from work. 

 

I am blessed to have the most amazing family, work family, and friends that supported me through the entire process. I also gained an appreciation for life, and every single day is a blessing and a gift! I am thankful and blessed that I celebrated my tenth breast cancer survivor anniversary on September 13, 2023! To God be the glory for the things He has done!