“You have cancer. I’m sorry.”
The words of my doctor seared into my brain. Afterward, and even for several days, everything the doctors said didn’t make sense. It was like my ears were stuffed with cotton. All I kept thinking about were my kids. How could I be diagnosed with cancer? I had no risk factors, and I’m only 42.
Cancer!
When Mom is Diagnosed with Cancer
I was told that the lump was probably nothing to worry about, and I immediately called my doctor when I discovered it. It was National Donut Day, and the children and I made chalk pastel donuts. Yet, it took two weeks to get in to see my doctor.
Again I was told the lump was nothing to worry about, and everything was probably fine.
It took another three weeks to get in for a mammogram and ultrasound.
Still, it was probably nothing to worry about.
They wanted to do a biopsy a few days later.
No need to worry. This was routine when a lump was discovered.
They were wrong.
My doctor called me and wanted to go over my biopsy results. July 13th, 2022, is the day I heard those life-changing words, “You have cancer. I’m sorry.”
My Cancer Diagnosis
Now I’m trying to come to terms with my new reality. I’m feeling the gambit of emotions. I have no idea how this journey will look, but I’m trying to stay positive. My calendar is starting to fill up with doctors’ appointments and testing instead of homeschool activities.
I can’t take my daughter to her art camp if I’m having surgery. Friends and family are coming to my aid and helping where they can.
For my particular case, either a lumpectomy or mastectomy will be first. Then, we’ll go from there.
I’m frightened. How did I end up here? Did I do something to cause my cancer? Am I strong enough to beat it? So many thoughts and questions fill my mind daily. I’m lucky that several breast cancer survivors have reached out to me. They’ve listened to my fears and have assured me that while there are things to be worried about, most of those thoughts are unfounded.
I did not cause my cancer.
I will find the strength I need for this journey.
My plea to you is this; please do regular self-breast exams; that’s how I found mine. Please get your yearly mammogram, and don’t think that you’re too young or that it can’t happen to you. And please pray for my family and me as we navigate this journey. Knowing that thousands of people, many I have never met, are praying for me has already been such a source of strength and comfort to me.
You can read more about more about my diagnosis and double mastectomy here.
You may enjoy these other post about my struggles with anxiety and depression:
Erin, thank you for sharing your journey. While I know you may not feel the strength on your own, remember you are not alone. Give yourself some grace. Please allow the prayers of all your family, friends, and complete strangers to lift you, and when that is not enough, you can rest assured that there is One who will carry you through.! We will be praying for you, your family and friends, your doctors and caregivers, and others who may be on this path with you!
Oh, thank you so very much!!! Hearing your words are such an encouragement. Thank you!
I’m so sorry. We are praying for you.
Thank you so very much!!!
I am praying for you. You are strong enough, you will beat this!
Thank you so very much!!!
My family and I are praying for you and your family*hugs*
Thank you so very much!