The theme of A Calendar to Live By 2022 is Perseverance. All 12 women who grace its pages have honest, inspiring stories of perseverance to share with readers -- as well as words of advice for other young women newly diagnosed with breast cancer. Read on to get to know more about Ms. August 2022.
Ms. September 2017 | Diagnosed at 37 (1997), re-diagnosed at 44
Leanne knows what it means to persevere through tough times. The year of her first breast cancer diagnosis was difficult beyond the diagnosis and treatment – she also went through a divorce, her father’s death, having to move and find a new home by herself, and the loss of a beloved family dog. Leanne had a recurrence of her disease 7 years later at another highly stressful time in her life. She worked hard to be strong for her two boys, who were teens at the time. Looking back at those rough years, she wonders how she made it through. “I learned that, no matter the hurdle or roadblock placed before you, you will endure with the strength and courage we all have inside. The only way out is through these times, and on the other side, many times you are better and stronger.” Now her boys have grown into men and she looks forward to seeing what the future holds for them.
While she still faces challenges, Leanne is focused on living life well and making a positive difference in the lives of young women facing this disease. “Everyone has a different journey, and you need to hear you are not alone.”
Leanne has this advice for survivors: It is so important to take [notes] to each appointment. Note when the side effects start and pass on to the doctors. Every patient is different and side effects are too. When the bills roll around, check what you are being charged for and what was applied, they may not match.