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Eva is a part of my team.  I recently found out that she, too, has been personally touched by breast cancer.  Her foreword & story is poignant for those of you who were diagnosed with “pre-cancerous” cells/cysts. Here is the next installment in my blog series, “Breast Cancer Survivors: The Power of Sharing” - Eva’s Story

Eva's lil' pumpkins - Matthew & Daniel

Eva:  I started my story so many times and erased what I wrote because I didn’t feel worthy (if you could call it that). I haven’t gone through as much as other women. I didn’t lose my hair, and I didn’t have chemo. But then I thought, we are all different and our experiences are going to be different. Same journey, just different paths. The best part is, we are all here to support each other. If my story helps, I am happy for that.

Q: What type of breast cancer and at what stage were you diagnosed?

A: Lobular Carcinoma In-Situ, Multifocal. This was contained in a cyst in my breast. LCIS is an overgrowth of cells that stay inside the lobule. It is not a true cancer; rather, it is a warning sign of an increased risk for developing an invasive cancer in the future in either breast. 

Q: Do you have a history of cancer in your family?

A: I had a maternal grandmother that passed from cervical cancer. 

Q: How old were you when you were diagnosed?

A: 51

Q: How was your cancer detected?

A: Ultrasound. I have fiber cystic breasts and have always had to have an additional ultrasound after my mammograms.

Q: What treatment program did you have?

A: I had the cyst removed and take Tamoxifen every day. 

Q: Did you seek a second opinion?

A: I did not because I agreed the cyst should be removed. I have, however, followed up with my doctor on a regular basis, making sure to get mammograms and other tests. My Doctor told me last year that because of what was found in my breast, it was important to have a colonoscopy. I put that test off because, well, I just really wasn’t looking forward to it. Anyway, her words stuck with me, and I scheduled the test. They found a tubular adenoma sessile polyp which was pre-cancerous, and I had to have over a foot of my colon surgically removed. I was grateful she pushed the point, and I’m grateful I went in for the test.

Q: What is helping you through this journey?

A: The love and support of my family, of course. I am blessed with two beautiful grandsons that light up my life, and I want to enjoy them for a long time. Also, I have to say, that I am a pretty positive person. I have a wonderful man in my life.  When I complain about my scars, he says “what scars?”  Of course I know what he is doing, and appreciate it. 

Q: What did you need most from your family, friends and co-workers?

A: It was great to have their support, but I was really happy when friends and co-workers were scheduling their tests after hearing my story. I hope that is what happens today. 

Q: How are you doing today?

A: Doing well, but not letting my guard down. 

Q: How has having breast cancer changed you?

A: It has made me believe in the expression – don’t sweat the small stuff! 

Q: What is your best advice and encouragement for someone newly diagnosed?

A: Your friends and family are in your life for a reason, and they want to be there for you. Lean on them! You know you would do it for them.