Jody's Breast Cancer Journey
I never even contemplated that I would be diagnosed with any form of cancer however, given my family history I was diligent with check-ups. It was February 2010 late in the evening I felt a lump above my left breast that seemed to appear out of the blue. The process from there was so fast the following day there were a multitude of tests and a long wait over a weekend for the biopsy results. I had this time to contemplate how I would feel but nothing really prepared me for the news. I will never forget the look of heartbreak on my husband’s face, the rest is a bit of a blur. The consultation, surgery, treatment options and prognosis. I also knew that I had to be strong for my family, unfortunately in 2003 my son was diagnosed with brain cancer at age 13 and he was amazing through his surgery and treatment over 2 years, if he could do it I had to.
I knew I was in great hands although at the time I didn’t really understand the science, I also knew that I had to stay positive. Following surgery, I had 5 months of chemotherapy followed by six weeks of radiation and all the effects of those treatments. Total Hair loss, ulcers, joint pain and an unfortunate reaction to radiotherapy, but I had so many positive experiences that stay with me every day.
My husband suddenly invented work from home back then, my son then aged 20 understood what many did not and that bond we share is quite incredible. It wasn’t important what people said it was the actions of many that overwhelmed me their kindness and love really etched a place in my heart.
Unfortunately, I relapsed in 2016 and was again diagnosed with breast cancer but fortunately this was much earlier and required minor surgery. I’m not saying the fear goes away every time I turn up for my check-ups, but I do know I’m resilient and I will deal with whatever comes my way surrounded by people who really care.
I know I am so lucky to live in a place that provides access to the best health care and the treatments that so many do not have. However, I can’t express how important it is to be kind to yourself and make sure that you have those check-ups and seek out all the assistance you need, in Australia we have accessible treatments, however, we need to continue to support the research of cancer and cancer sufferers as every case and human is different.
