Walking on an Unpaved Road & Yet, Still I Rise

Introduction to My Book

“Those who move forward with a happy spirit will find that things always work out”. Author Unknown

One out of every eight women…That’s the statistic based on the The American Cancer Society Foundation and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. It used to be told to me, by doctors that women who were diagnosed with breast cancer either have a family history, are over the age of 50, or have had cancer previously. Most women under the age of 50 don’t have a mammogram done because (up until recently), there wasn’t many women under that age being diagnosed. Part of the problem was that there was no “real” age on when you should get your first mammogram. Many doctors say don’t go and get your first mammogram until you are 40 years old, while many say if you have a family history, tell your doctor so that you may be screened. With recent discoveries, it has been said that having breast cancer isn’t linked to family history or age.

So now I know you’re wondering, what that does have to do with me? I didn’t realize that going to take my first mammogram would impact the rest of my life. I had my life planned out and I felt prepared in all aspects. I thought I had it all figured out, until May 10, 2017. Never, in a million years, did I know that breast cancer would be the newest and latest chapter of my life. My life, although chaotic, was stable. In a matter of months, my life was turned inside out!!! This is a story of my life. It breaks down how I discovered cancer, my journey through the pain and obstacles of it, and how I am currently dealing with the after effects. My journey isn’t over, but after being through, what I have been through, I feel strong enough to talk about it. I went from having the strength of a kitten to the strength of a lioness. I won’t say f**k cancer, like some people would. Cancer isn’t going anywhere…You couldn’t have told me at 37 years old, that this would be my life. I can’t say every day was easy…There were days I cried and I felt like I wasn’t built for this, but then I was reminded that I have no choice…I MUST MOVE FORWARD on this unpaved road called life! I hope that after reading my story you will be more inspired, you will be stronger, you will feel freer, and you are able to move forward in your own journey, whatever that may be. God bless you and know that I am in your corner, cheering you on!!