Deb is a special friend of mine, or as Deb would say we are bosom buddies. We first met online on the Young Survival Coalition (YSC) message boards and then face to face at the YSC conference. We were diagnosed with breast cancer within days of one another. Deb has two sons, Max who is six and Ben who is eight. She is working towards her Masters in public health and is heavily involved with breast cancer advocacy and support programs.
How did you find out you had breast cancer?
I found a lump, same spot that I had mastitis (yes, that means I breastfed to reduce my risk of developing breast cancer). I was diagnosed on December 20th 2001.
What types of breast cancer treatment were recommended?
I was told I would need a lumpectomy, radiation, chemotherapy and Tamoxifen. I was aggressive and chose to get a bilateral mastectomy. This did not increase my survival but did cut down the chance of recurrence in my other breast from 20 percent to 1 percent. Currently I'm on my last year of Tamoxifen.
How did you research breast cancer and breast cancer treatments?
Internet and any health care providers.
How did you tell your family?
It was hard telling my mom. I think it was harder for her than for me to actually go through it all.
Are you involved in any breast cancer support groups, fundraisers or breast cancer organizations?
- Founder and President of the YSC of Greater Baltimore.
- Committee member on the Annual Educational Symposium for the Susan G Komen Foundation.
- Involved with the American Cancer Society and also the Men Against Breast Cancer organization.
- Member of the National Breast Cancer Coalition Fund for Advocacy (NBCCF).
- Program coordinator for the Breast Friends grant/program at Sinai Hospital in Baltimore. Breast Friends is a program of support, education and advocacy.
What advice would you give to someone newly diagnosed with breast cancer?
One day it will be just a bump on your radar screen. The emotional challenges are much greater than the physical ones. Small baby steps will get you through it, this is the time to pull strength in from those around you...and pray a lot. I found education as my key, the more I learned the less anxiety I had.
What advice would you give the family members and friends of someone diagnosed with breast cancer?
Provide support and don't stop it after treatment is done because it continues beyond that.
As a breast cancer survivor, what thoughts do you have on surviving breast cancer and being a breast cancer survivor?
I see life completely different now. Like Lance said it, "Before cancer I had good days and bad days, after cancer I only have good days and great days". I enjoy the experience of life more, each and every second, as I want to live every moment to it's fullest.
Name three breast cancer related books you would recommend:
Dr. Susan Love's Breast Cancer book...a must
Fighting for Our Future..great information specific for young women.
When Bad Things Happen to Good People...it makes you not question Why me?
Name other breast cancer related resources, on or offline that you recommend:
