In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, I thought I would tell you my mother's battle journey
This was not the first time she has been diagnosed with cancer. When she was around only 19 years old, she was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. She went through vigorous treatment with radiation and chemotherapy. The chemotherapy caused her to lose her hair, which at the time was what she was most afraid of. Being young and naive going into the college world, she was afraid she wouldn't make it out there. Although it all came to a halt when she had to take a year off from college. That was especially was hard for her. My mother lost many of her friends and cancer has scarred her for life.
After fighting for her life for over a year, she finally beat the illness. The doctors told her that the probability of her having children would be extremely low from everything that she went through. However, she beat the odds and ended up having me and my sister. Since the day my older sister was born, the cancer has been a distant memory, but a permanent scar.
A few months ago, her usual mammogram raised suspicion. She went and got tested and examined. I will never forget the day that she got the dreaded phone call. Anticipating the call, she was nervous and scared. Of course, the day was gloomy and dark, it seemed mother nature thought she was being clever. From the moment my mom picked up the phone, I could see the tears gradually welling up in her eyes. I knew this wasn't good. As soon as she hung up the phone she let out a large cry and sank to the floor. I knew, and she was aware that I knew. She has breast cancer.
I felt the wind being knocked out of me. I couldn't lose my mother. I was terrified, but not as terrified as her. This was happening again, I couldn't even think to imagine how this felt on her. We acted quickly, and planned the surgeries. She went into the operation room twice. This entire time she stayed strong for us and herself. She had beaten cancer’s ass for the second time in her life. It has been an emotional strain on the entire family and especially on her. That is why at the end of this month, my mother and I will be participating in a local Breast Cancer Walk in honor of her.
The American Cancer Survivor organization, Making Strides, is sponsoring the event. Family, friends, and all local people who know of my mother are participating in this 3.5 mile walk. It might not be the longest and largest walk out there, but it is a personal victory for my family. Everyone get out there, wear your pink and show your pride for Breast Cancer Awareness month!
