My Breast Cancer Journey

My journey of breast cancer began with my diagnosis on February 4, 2005, after my yearly mammogram in January revealed suspicious calcifications. It wasn't until my first surgery, a lumpectomy on February 1 that my worst fears were confirmed. BREAST CANCER, the big "C".

I had just turned 55, days before; I was the supposed "poster child" of great health. I ate right, no red meats, no carbonated drinks, no caffeine, except in chocolate (ah, come on) , ate lots of fresh fruits and veggies, exercised daily by walking and some of that power walking (5-8+ miles a day) and cross trained by lifting weights, a 10 lb. program. I also had lost about 45 lbs. 5 years ago and have kept it off, started my own business in May of 2004 (We Be Hiking), have a wonderful supportive husband, 2 grown sons that are happy with what they are doing and live in one of God's most beautiful parts of the country, the mountains of Western North Carolina. Life was full and blessed.

So, now I was faced with a new challenge and what a challenge it was. Things for me happened really fast for which I am thankful. There was so much information from doctors and I sought more on the Internet. I wanted to know as much as I could so when I/we needed to make a decision I was confident that I was informed to the best of my ability and thus making those good choices. Scary? You bet I/we were. But for me this made the insane, sane. My passion for being in the mountains, my daily walks, my husband, family and friends, and above all, my growing faith is what I know got me through all that has happened.

The following are updates chronicling my journey that I wrote to family and friends to share with them what was happening and to draw from their strength. I wasn't sure about doing these updates but for me it turned out to be power, healing, and giving me back to me. The updates helped me to handle all that was happening and going to happen and it was through these entries that I was able to deal and heal.

If my story is to help but one person get through their journey of life no matter what they face, then this has been worthwhile. My hope for you is that no matter what challenge you may be facing that you draw from your passion and rely on what I called my 3-F's, Faith, Family and Friends. The power of faith, prayer and self does work... I am living proof.

Update #1, March 15, 2005
Update #2, March 20, 2005 - Duke Report
Update #3, April 7, 2005 - Post Surgery
Update #4, April 17, 2005
Update #5, April 22, 2005
Update #6, May 12, 2005
Update #7, May 22, 2005 - Genetics Test Results
Update #8, June 19, 2005 - Next Surgery
Update #9, July 23, 2005
Update #10, July 29, 2005
Update #11, August 6, 2005 - Hallelujah!
Update #12, August 26, 2005 - Back from Duke
Update #13, September 8, 2005 - On the Trail Again
Update #14, September 19, 2005 - Back from the AT
Update #15, September 27, 2005 - Off to Atlanta
Update #16, October 7, 2005 - 60 Fantastic Miles & 3-Day Photos