Toni's Story: Refining My Life
Toni S. is a Breastcancer.org Community member in Manhattan Beach, California, USA.
In February 2021, the diagnosis of triple-positive breast cancer forever changed my life. Unsurprisingly, I learned more about breast cancer than I would ever want to. I was one of the 276,480 (from 2020) women diagnosed with breast cancer and hoped to be one of the 91% to survive in five years. About 10% of breast cancer diagnoses are triple-positive (estrogen receptor-positive, progestrone receptor-positive, and HER2-positive). I remember my initial medical oncologist informing me that there were medications to fight my type of cancer, and that was good news. Of course, I was thankful for the intel. However, the word "cancer" is scary, so initially, I was filled with fear and was concerned that I would die at age 59. I could only focus on how I wouldn't see my kids marry or have children or how anyone could care for my disabled child the way I, a mother, know their child. And how would my husband and life partner handle all the pressures without me? It was a time of sadness, anger, and anxiety. At the same time, I had to make quick decisions on my treatment and navigate the process to begin treatment.
To summarize, my treatment started with six rounds of chemo, which I did once every three weeks. After receiving my chemo, the cycle made me feel very sick from day two to day nine. Once I felt better, the process started again. Thankfully, my husband and children led the household as I spent time on the couch. My role changed from the lead to just being a body in the room. My family had my back, and their support allowed me to focus on getting through the process.
The next phase was surgery to remove the tumor, and unfortunately, I had cancer in some lymph nodes. So, more chemo called Kadcyla was needed. I also started radiation. After twelve rounds of Kadcyla, my body had enough. My treatments were from February 2021 to June 2022. I am now on anastrozole to help suppress estrogen. My side effects include neuropathy in my feet and joint pain.
I fought for life and considered myself a soldier along with the other 276,480 diagnosed women. I have read about people with cancer stating that cancer doesn't define them. I understand that statement, as I do not want my life defined by cancer. However, I read one article about a woman who had ovarian cancer, and she said cancer has refined her. I resonated with her statement as I have changed many habits because of my cancer diagnosis. After my surgery, I educated myself on eating healthier by speaking to dietitians working with cancer patients and gathering intel from cancer survivors. Also, I am working with my current medical oncologist, who keeps things simple for me. I always quote her, "You rest, you rust." So, I walk all the time. I use my Apple Watch to set goals and ensure I overachieve them. Through diet and walking, I lost 70 pounds and counting! Though anyone can have cancer, I refined my life in ALL possible ways to avoid reoccurrence. My life changes include finding a more meaningful job and ensuring I reduce stress in my life. The Virtual Meetups with Breastcancer.org help me by listening and sharing with others who are all soldiers.
So, the one thing I am thankful for from my cancer journey is how I have refined my life to a more positive outlook.
