Chas’ Crazy Stories – Breast Cancer
Hi Friends!
I had my first hip surgery in January 2019, and 2 weeks after that I had a breast ultrasound that reveled a small lump. This lead to a biopsy which confirmed it was a begin papilloma. They scheduled a surgery to remove it in February, and when I got the results back from the surgery the surgeon said well, we have good and bad news. The good news is that we got all of the begin papilloma, and the bad news is we accidently found cancer.
I had Ductal Carcinoma In Situ Stage 0. This means in the ducts, hasn’t spread, and stage 0 means it hasn’t shown up in imaging.
Next I met with an Oncologist and they told me the next test were critical. I’d either be on the pathway to radiation (no chemo since it hadn’t spread) or I’d be having a double mastectomy. Here’s what happened next
- Genetic Counseling (came back clear)
- MRI Mammogram – Showed a flare up, so needed a biopsy.
- Biopsy confirmed a begin fibroadenoma, but showed precancerous cells as well.
- Surgery to remove all of the precancerous cells because radiation doesn’t kill those (only cancerous cells)
- 33 Treatments (7 weeks of M-F) Radiation Treatment
After treatment was done…
- I went through physical therapy to break through radiation scar tissue, & yes I was still getting PT and recovering from my hip surgery through all of this.
- I am on a medication called Tamoxifen for 5 years, which is a hormone blocker and puts me in chemical menopause. This stuff is awful causing depression, sickening hot flashes, join pains, etc. I’m a trouper 😉
- I’m considered high risk because of my age and all of the precancerous cells they found. So I have alternating mammograms and MRI mammograms every 6 months.
- I’m on a special plant based diet plan, and need to eliminate hormones, antibiotics, pesticides.
- I have to eliminate all chemicals, and hormones (they’re in everything – shampoo, moisturizer, alcohol increases hormone production, etc)
I’m doing well, all things considered (Covid is a walk in the park compared to this and the hip surgeries). I appreciate all the emails, e-cards, and support from all of you! You are AMAZING, and I’m grateful for you.
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I hope this helps you, and I’d love to hear from you in the comments!
You are AMAZING!
Hugs to you!
Chas
WOW!! I hope you know Jesus . I can’t imagine going through all you’ve been through without hope. Praying for you.
Thank you so much for your kind words Pat, I appreciate it. Hugs friend.
Dearest Chas: I just read about what you are going through, and I had to contact you. My Mother has Cancer in her stomach lining. They found this when they redid her bowels. (Long story as she almost died) The cancer has spread. I am trying to take care of her, as I stay with her most days and nights.
I know what you are going through girl. I wish that there was a cure for Cancer, as it takes such an extreme toll on the Loved ones who try so hard to make things better.
I am Praying for you, and may God Bless you and your Family Always.
XO; Sunny C
Hi Sunny, thank you so much for your kind words. I’m so sorry that your mom is going through this, and I’m so grateful you are able to care for. I know she appreciates it so very much. I’m here for you and please feel free to email anytime you want to chat. Sending you, your mom, and your family hugs.
Oh Sweetheart! I knew you were amazing but didn’t realize all that! To say you are a trooper is a huge understatement. You are a blessing and an inspiration, and I’m so happy I got to know you!
Lots and lots of love over to you my friend!
You are so sweet Barbara, I’m so grateful our paths crossed and I’m sending big hugs to you friend.
Hi Chas; Good lord your plate is full. I will add you you our prayer group. I’m so sorry this is your burden to carry. I know you are a strong woman. Thank god they found it in stage 0 . Tamoxifen is the drug that’s been number one for this type of diagnosis. I’ve worked in Oncology for 30 years. Loved my job so much. I never met so many strongest patients in my life. Some days just so damn sad and the next day miracles. ✨? Bless you Chas ?? Stay strong , you’ve got this girl ?
You are so very sweet Barbara, thank you so much. Also, thank you for all you do, I feel for all the people who to work and watch cancer everyday. How heavy that can be.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer at 32, and thyroid cancer at 33. Reading your breast cancer story made me reflect on mine. I remember the terror I felt after each diagnosis. Although the surgery, treatments, and meds were daunting at times (I had surgery, chemo, radiation, and took Tamoxifen for 5 years), I felt lucky to be in good hands with very knowledgeable medical professionals. That, and having a supportive family helped me through a tough time. It sounds like you have both as well. Sending good vibes your way for positive news.
Peace to you,
Tracey K. (26 year breast cancer survivor, 25 year thyroid cancer survivor)