SURVIVOR

My Breast Cancer Story

On March 2, 2016 at 43, I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, Breast Cancer. In the early days of a diagnosis it can be very scary. There are more questions than there are answers. I had to learn fairly quickly that the answers would come in time. That the universe answers the questions when we're best ready to receive them. So I had to practice patience and kindness while waiting for the answers. The best way to strengthen those muscles is having a deep level of gratitude. Gratitude for life.

A breast cancer diagnosis is so very personal. Between the location of the disease, size of the tumor(s), tumor breakdown, age, current health, discussions between a medical and surgical oncologist, and radiologist (if needed), along with personal beliefs regarding treatment. And considering the beliefs and feelings of loved ones. The best treatment will be determined by all these factors. I immediately placed my faith and trust knowing that I am a survivor. That I had angels watching over me.

I wholeheartedly believed that I was and am a survivor from day one. Not from the day, I would be told I was in remission but from the day I entered this world. I took that deep belief and chose to see the blessings in my life and stay positive. With my husband, girls, family, medical team, and the holistic healing practitioners, along with my friends and community, I got through the worst and best days of cancer treatment. Education is the first step towards breast cancer prevention. With awareness and monthly self-check, detection can be found in early stages which raise the survival percentage. I believe awareness and prevention should not only be discussed in the month of October but year-round.

I am a proud advocate, supporter, and fundraiser for Planned Parenthood and the Keep A Breast Foundation. Planned Parenthood played a role in saving my life when they detected my breast cancer and the Keep A Breast Foundation was there for me during my breast cancer treatment. Their support and the opportunity to help raise awareness with their educational materials were a big part of my healing process. If sharing my story will help others to self-check, make a mammogram appointment, and get answers. If something just doesn't feel right, I say trust your intuition and get it checked.

I am so grateful for my family, friends, colleagues, and community for the love and support that was given to me during my cancer treatment and continues today. It is their unconditional love and kindness that fuels me to be the best-wholehearted self I can be. To contribute and live with purpose and passion. Thanks for allowing me the space to share my story. Check out the Journal space for other stories of survivors. May it inspire you to live your best self.

With Love & Light,

Novelyn

XOXO