This is my second year to celebrate that coveted phrase: cancer-free. As a member of the “silent killer club,” every day has new meaning, new celebration and new challenge. Cancer is not a stranger in my family. My dad and one of my brothers died of cancer, and my sister is a metastatic breast cancer … Continue reading How faith and prayer helped me battle stage 4 ovarian cancer
Picture this: I’m cruising along with family, career and all the trimmings. At a routine physical, my doctor says there are some labs he’d like to repeat. They were all normal six months ago, but in two days, he tells me he thinks I have multiple myeloma. Cue all the diagnostic tests you can think … Continue reading Why multiple myeloma will never slow me down
It starts as a lump in your breast. Then the lump invades your brain and convinces you that you actually are sick. Eventually, it moves to your throat and you find that you can’t talk to people about the big “C-word.” Cancer. In high school, I remember feeling a small lump in my breast, but the … Continue reading What it’s like to be diagnosed with breast cancer at age 21
Many changes occur naturally in our breasts throughout our lifetime. These changes happen at certain times in the menstruation cycle, during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, and before and after menopause. But sometimes, changes in the breast can be a sign that something is wrong — possibly breast cancer. By regularly examining and looking at your breasts, … Continue reading Breast self-awareness: Knowing your normal
Although pancreatic cancer is not among the most commonly diagnosed cancers, it is the third-leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. It is often difficult to recognize the symptoms of pancreatic cancer in the early stages and once the cancer spreads, survival rates are low. Although anyone can be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, there … Continue reading Are you at risk for pancreatic cancer?
I don’t know what you picture when you hear “breast cancer patient,” but I’d be willing to bet it isn’t me — a 58-year-old male. The truth you might not realize is that breast cancer affects men, too. It all started when I found a lump under my shoulder blade. It seemed strange but at … Continue reading Men get breast cancer, too
Yoga can bring healing to both body and mind for those who practice. This dual benefit can be especially valuable for those affected by breast cancer. From the moment of diagnosis through treatment and recovery, this disease is something that lives with you forever. Exercise — no matter what level of intensity — has been … Continue reading How yoga can heal body and mind for breast cancer patients
When a person receives a life-altering diagnosis like that of cancer, two questions generally asked are: “Am I going to die?” and “Will my family get this, too?” The answer to the first question is long and complicated, and depends on a lot of things. But the answer to the second question is getting clearer … Continue reading How family history and genetics affect your cancer risk
If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, you’re probably thinking, where do I go from here? As you consider your options for surgery and treatment, you might also be considering breast reconstruction surgery. After a mastectomy, breast reconstruction can help restore your sense of self-image, balance and femininity. But keep in mind that every woman … Continue reading How to know if breast reconstruction is right for you
In my 33 years of life, I’ve worn many hats. I’ve been a student at Pflugerville High School, Texas A&M University and Tarleton State University. I’ve been a high school teacher for 12 years, as well as an assistant principal. I’ve been a wife to my husband, Justin, since November 2007, and am a mother … Continue reading Beating breast cancer at age 30
