It's my Four Year Surviversary!

On Friday, February 13, 2004, I was diagnosed with breast cancer.  Now four years later, I finally feel like I've moved on, and reached the "new normal".  I no longer feel like I'm just waiting for the other shoe to drop.  I don't have flashbacks and anxiety when I go for my onc checkup, mammo, or routine physical.  Cancer isn't the first thing on my mind when I wake up in the morning, and when I do think about having had cancer, I'm no longer terrified.  And I don't worry that I'll jinx myself by writing this!

My hair is curlier than before, finer and more sparse all over.  My nails are thin, my waistline is thick, my joints are stiff and my memory sure ain't what it used to be!  I know more about treatments, insurance, research, and medications than I ever imagined.  I don't sweat the small stuff any more and I choose my battles carefully.  I have no patience for BS or people who are  energy-draining.  I have loads of appreciation for my family and friends who continue to support me.  And I learned a lot about myself.  I can be strong and I can surrender - I'm a SURVIVOR - a word I've never liked before.

Blessings to all of you wonderful women, and thank you for caring, sharing, and making this journey so much easier.

Helene