A Survivor's Story
In this brief excerpt from the book, a survivor tells her story.
They've just told you. You've stopped listening. You have important medical decisions to make. You need some answers.
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Breast
Cancer
A Survivor's Story In this brief excerpt from the book, a survivor tells her story. They've just told you. You've stopped listening. You have important medical decisions to make. You need some answers. |
| At the breast cancer screening in 1984,
I was bluntly told by the attending doctor, "You've got cancer." Period.
I don't think he even knew my name. Then he walked out of the door leaving
me with two nurses.
That's the last bit of information on the subject that I took in that day. Call it self defense or naked fear, I simply switched off, and no further facts stayed in my memory. I'd have deeply appreciated a publication like this, perhaps even more for my husband, who took the emotional brunt of the diagnosis. When I tuned out, he took over, getting details and asking questions, and making arrangements for the inevitable operation. He kept reminding me that ghastly as the diagnosis was, it was not the final word, for most women with breast cancer survive the disease. I began to listen. Two factors that we now know are so important for survival were in place for me: a positive attitude and a great support system. I was lucky, but I've known too many women who were not, and who became increasingly frustrated and frightened over the unknown. A few women have no choice but radical surgery. Whatever your situation, you have the right to know what they want to do to you, and asking the right questions is a start. Just as I started writing this, a wonderful, remarkable, and very strong woman I know called to tell me she had been diagnosed with breast cancer, had had a lumpectomy, and may have to go back for a mastectomy. She has some major decisions to make, and she, like me and most people who are faced with such a critical situation, was unsure of the next move. She needed to talk, and needed answers. This publication is for her, and for her daughter who will go with her to the appointments; it is for her to take home and look over in the peaceful moments, those reflective times when she can put aside what has happened and look rationally and with courage at what lies ahead. I have no doubt that she will survive, and that survival will be helped by her strength and knowledge. This publication will give you the knowledge to help you make your decisions, and knowledge will give you the courage to fight back. You are not alone. This publication is for all of us. Helen Hatton
Over 60,000 patients have received copies to date. Breast
Cancer and You
Table of Contents
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