Meet Tanya B., breast cancer patient and friend! She currently in her second round of treatment, with amazing support around her - but she's excited to find a community on OneVillage!
What was your cancer diagnosis and how was it discovered?
Hi there, I actually live in British Columbia Canada. I was first diagnosed in 2019 with stage 2/3 breast cancer, I had a double mastectomy and reconstruction, however a few weeks later the reconstruction fell apart which lead to emergency surgery, and then two more, to be what I thought was finished in April 2021.
However, I felt like a grain of sand and it grew and I just kept growing, I had asked my doctor to remove it in April but she didn't, I returned to her when it had grown more and she took it out. No one thought it could be, but it was, in the same spot. I had dutifully taken my tamoxifen but screw the 3% chances, it's back.
I am getting radiation starting on the 14th of February. However with the shot I am now taking and the new medication that all can have heart issues, I am terrified as the radiation is above my heart.... yeah that's me!
What is the biggest piece of advice you have for newly diagnosed patients or supporters of newly diagnosed patients?
Your diagnosis is your foundation, the wondering and trying to build on sand is over, you have solid ground ,scary but a solid place to start..... now one step at a time, no more, no less. It will all come flying at you but say stop, say slow down, and take it in so you can finish and breathe out and leave it behind you.
What is the most important thing you have learned from your cancer experience?
Be the Squeaky wheel, my best friend told me that, you are in charge of you, if you want a double mastectomy and they are saying something else. NO this is what I want and if they won't find someone who will.
What was the most difficult aspect of organizing care / community?
All the different appointments. Trying to get people to stop always saying it will all be ok, let me be on fire for a hot minute!
What are a few things that you couldn't live without during treatment?
I honestly can't think right now, it's in the whirlwind phase. I have a psychiatrist, but I need someone I can talk to more often.
I also deal with major depressive disorder and general anxiety.
