10/23/2024
🩷 💖 💕
I know this may be a long post, I hope my friends and family will take the time to read through.
I have been struggling with the words, but I figure if I can help just one person then I need to press on.
A few months back, I noticed a bruise on my breast. Normally I may have ignored it, but a little voice in my head told me not to. That voice was my sister’s best friend JoAnn, who lost her daughter several years ago after she ignored her signs. I listened, and made the appointments with the appropriate doctors.
One week and many tests later the diagnosis came back…Stage 1A and 1B breast cancer. The first doctors I met with recommended pre-op radiation, followed by a double mastectomy and chemotherapy.
After talking to a few other women who have been through this, I decided to get a second opinion.
I went to Penn State Cancer Institute in Hershey. I felt comfortable with their approach and decided to be treated there. My doctors asked if I would participate in a 6-month clinical trial to test the effectiveness of three (chemo-free) drugs at shrinking (and possibly eradicating) breast cancer tumors. If successful, this drug regimen could make it possible for women to avoid chemotherapy and all the harmful side effects that come with that treatment.
I am three months into the trial and so far the results are very positive. Several of my tumors have shrunk significantly and the doctors are encouraged.
There are three months left in the trial and it has certainly been challenging. I take daily medications and infusion every three weeks. These drugs are no joke, and some days it’s difficult to get out of bed.
I will have a double mastectomy in February and doctors will be utilizing a new reconstructive technique that is used to rebuild the breast tissue lost to mastectomy.
My journey is just beginning but I am staying positive and encouraged by the results so far. I have a great support system of family and friends. I hope this message encourages another woman out there to stay vigilant and to not ignore the signs.
If you made it this far, add a heart and take my thanks.
Jeannie💕🩷💖
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