Name: Pat F.
Age: 58
Occupation: Accountant
Date of diagnosis: December 2002
Type of diagnosis: Breast Cancer
Date of last treatment: September 2003
What event lead up to your diagnosis, or, how did you discover what you were suffering from cancer?
I was very shocked when I learned that I had breast cancer. My annual mammogram did not show a lump. I discovered the lump during a self-examination and soon after made an appointment to see my general practitioner. A biopsy was ordered which resulted in what no woman wants to hear. I had breast cancer!
What were you main concerns after being diagnosed?
I was devastated and scared after being diagnosed. All I could think about was my chances of survival and my family – I had two young children at that time.
How did your family react to the news?
Shocked, saddened and supportive. It was extremely difficult to tell my family. Although they were shocked and saddened by the news, they were very supportive.
How did you cope emotionally?
Family, friends and faith. Having any life-threatening illness can take a toll on one’s emotional well-being. I was very grateful for the support that I received from my family and friends. And of course, having my faith was very important throughout this ordeal.
What is the underlying message or takeaway you learned from your experience with cancer?
I learned that cancer does not discriminate. I learned to treat it as an illness, similar to an operation with recuperating time. I learned not to dwell on it as being “cancer”.
How has breast cancer affected your outlook on life?
Having breast cancer reinforced for me that life is short, and one must deal with whatever comes your way in the best way that one can.
As a survivor, what are your thoughts about current support and resources available for survivors?
As the years have passed, I see how breast cancer has become a common diagnosis for many women and that there is a wealth of support and resources available. There has been great emphasis on the importance of early detection.
How long we your in treatment? What helped keep your spirits up and gave you support during this period?
My combined treatment of chemotherapy and radiation lasted six months. Having my family, friends, and my spiritual beliefs helped me during this time.
What was your first reaction when you were told that you had cancer?
Shock. I was very shocked to hear that I had breast cancer, for there was no history of this disease in my family. But I never did once asked or said, “Why me?”
The first emotion when finished with active treatment?
It was a huge sense of relief when active treatment was over.
How did you find the strength to go through the treatments?
My strength came from the support of my family, my friends, and my prayers.
How important is it for a family member or friends to be with you?
My husband was with me for each of my chemo treatments and I was very thankful to have him by my side.
Did you learn anything new while you were in hospital?
The nurses and staff have to be really devoted to their vocation as they see so many people young and old suffering from cancer. I am sure it takes a toll on them emotionally, but they were always very helpful and supportive.
Does their cancer center have a survivorship program?
Yes.
