Diagnosed 10 years ago

Hi everyone, I just wanted to drop by and share my experience. Last month was my 10 year ‘canciversary’ - and it only just occurred to me last week, and that only because my husband reminded me. No idea the actual date I was diagnosed, or started chemo. The point of that is that it’s just not really a thing in my life, and I really do forget I ever had it. My treatment was TAC, herceptin, double radical mastectomy (double was my choice), rads, and DIEP recon surgery, which was completed 7 or 8 yrs ago. I haven’t had a recurrence, and feel well. I very rarely go to doctors, and never for cancer follow-up - decided against scanxiety unless there was an actual symptom requiring the scan. I don’t claim that’s the best way, and surely don’t advise anyone to do the same, but it makes my life happier. I figure if it comes back, I will know soon enough. I’ve observed the “if something bothers you for two weeks, you need to be seen about it” rule, except for when I was bitten by a tick.

I post here every once in a while and have mixed feelings about it - on the one hand, I do it because I want to offer hope. When I was diagnosed, I really had very little hope - closer to no hope honestly, and would be lifted up when reading about or meeting long-term survivors. (Btw I know a 35 yr survivor in my hometown! She had 2 recurrences but is well and healthy today!) On the other hand, I feel like it might be seen as bragging, which is a horrible, painful thought. But I just want you to know that you can have many years of health left, and it doesn’t have to dominate your life.

Peace, love, and comfort to you all.