June 14, 1996. The day my life was forever changed. On this day, I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. Devastating words to hear. Terrifying thoughts of not seeing my son grow up haunted me daily. He was my life. How could he grow up without a mom? Who would take care of him? Just thinking of all the things I’d miss sent me to tears.. graduation, marriage, grandchildren… These thoughts are what kept me going. They kept me strong through it all. Austin was the source of my strength through 8 rounds of chemotherapy, surgery, and then radiation.
Although it’s been the hardest thing that’s been laid at my feet, it has also been the most eye opening. As weird as it sounds, I’d do it all over again and am glad it happened. It taught me many things. The power of prayer. The power of positive thinking. To never take anything for granted. To appreciate the little things. I found strength within myself that I never knew I had. For that, I am forever grateful.
Now, 14 years later, I went in for my 6 month checkup. Dr. Spahr put me through the usual battery of tests all doctors do in a physical. He also reviewed the routine blood tests. All were normal as I expected it to be. No problems. No lumps or bumps. Clean bill of health. Then he said, “You know, you’ve been cancer free for 14 years now. I think it’s safe to say it’s not coming back. Would you feel comfortable coming in only once a year?” Funny how words can have such an effect on you. It’s not coming back. Wow. Just hearing those words made me feel like I won a marathon or something. Now, I know there’s always the possibility of it coming back, nothing is guaranteed, but to hear him say those words was so freeing. Like a weight being lifted. I fought the battle, and I won! See you in a year, Dr. Spahr!
