39, diagnosed at 37, no family history, no known genetic mutation
WARRIOR. Our theme for A Calendar to Live By 2021, INSPIRED, shares the word that resonates most with each of our calendar ambassadors and reflects the woman she has become since her cancer journey began. Becky's word is WARRIOR. Here is her story.
Becky’s bras were hurting her left breast and, though she didn’t feel a lump, that side felt firmer and painful to the touch. An occupational therapist and mother of 2 young children, she decided to go to her doctor to get it checked. An ultrasound and mammogram led to a biopsy, which led to a diagnosis of stage 2 mucinous carcinoma, a rare form of invasive breast cancer. Becky underwent a bilateral mastectomy and chemo. Her breast cancer experience may have increased her fear and turned her life upside-down, but it also showed her what an extensive support network she has, opened her up to new experiences, and helped her empathize with her patients going through cancer treatment. It also taught her to accept help from others, something she found difficult. It was important to Becky to keep life as normal as possible for her kids, which is why the word warrior resonates with her. Her goal was “to still laugh, still make it to all their sporting events, still smile no matter how crappy I felt. Every time we thought we were moving forward we would hit a speed bump. I had to just keep pressing forward.” She was a warrior for her children.
MORE TO ADD: "I was so worried these (H4TG) meetings were going to be sad, depressing, and a bunch of bald women sharing their horror stories. It is the complete opposite. It’s women sharing their triumphs, their strength, and supporting each other with understanding in a way that friends and family can’t quite do. I have made new friends and I am so grateful for our monthly meetings."