Triple Negative But Always Positive
After two weeks of sporadic nipple pain and an email from my boss reminding everyone to be on top of their cancer screenings, I heard the words that no 30-year-old mom wants to hear: “You have triple-negative breast cancer.” And just like that, I was propelled from a world of potty training and preschool to one of chemotherapy and surgery. Although I am extremely blessed to have two daughters, Sara (5) and Lily (2.5), I was lucky to have time to complete fertility preservation treatments before starting chemotherapy. Because triple-negative breast cancer is a more aggressive form of cancer, chemotherapy is mandatory and done prior to surgery. After five months of exhaustion, hair loss, and nausea, I had a double mastectomy and, almost 2 years later, recently completed a second surgery for a revision of my implants. Triple-negative breast cancer doesn’t respond to anti-hormonal treatments, so I’m not on any medications that help reduce the chance of recurrence. Throughout all of this, Sharsheret has been by my side. My social worker has become a friend, constantly checking in on me and sending me “pick-me-up” gifts. Sharsheret sent toys to keep my kids busy and connected me with a peer supporter who experienced the same treatments I did. I’ve attended several workshops sponsored by Sharsheret on different topics and learned so much. Cancer is never something anyone wants to deal with, but having an amazing support system of family, friends, doctors, and Sharsheret made a tough time much easier. If I could give advice to anyone out there, it would be to do your self-exams, know your body, and if something doesn’t feel right, speak up and advocate for yourself. For those newly diagnosed, don’t Google! If you look up triple-negative breast cancer, you will find frightening and outdated information. Yes, it is a more aggressive form of cancer, but I’m here to say that it can be treatable and curable. Trust yourself and your doctors. Find people who understand what you are going through and lean on them. And take advantage of the wonderful resources out there, including Sharsheret!