005- No one wants to hear, "You have cancer."

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Breast cancer is a devastating diagnosis that affects millions of women every year. It's a disease that can impact anyone, regardless of age, gender, or lifestyle. I am a breast cancer survivor, and I want to share my story with you. A little more than five years ago, I was diagnosed with triple-positive breast cancer two days before my 43rd birthday. Triple-positive means that my tumor tested positive for estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors. This type of breast cancer is considered more aggressive and can be more challenging to treat.

My diagnosis was a shock to me and my family. I was healthy, active, and had no family history of genetic breast cancer. I remember feeling overwhelmed and scared as I navigated through the diagnosis and treatment process. However, I was determined to fight and beat cancer. Let me re-phrase, I was determined to kick cancer's ass! And that's just what I did. I wrote a separate blog during my treatments with a lot more detail. I will share parts of it on this site, but if you want to read through the entire thing, here is the link: http://sarahsquishesbc.blogspot.com/. It goes in reverse chronological order on that site.

The first part of my treatment was undergoing chemotherapy. This was used to shrink the tumors so lumpectomy surgery to remove the tumors would be easier. This was followed by 30 rounds of radiation. The treatment was tough, but I was fortunate to have a great medical team at St. Joseph Hospital and a strong support system that helped me through it all. My family, friends, and office team rallied around me, providing emotional and practical support, which was invaluable.

One of the things that helped me during treatment was thinking of treating cancer like it was a job or project that needed to get completed. My medical team and I made a plan, and we checked off the boxes as we went. Those that really know me, know that I like to check things off my list.

Today, five years later, I am cancer-free. I still have regular check-ups with my oncologist and undergo routine mammograms, but I am grateful for every day and opportunity to live my life to the fullest. The experience has taught me the importance of self-care, resilience, and the power of hope and positivity.

Breast cancer is a challenging journey, but it's also one that can be overcome. I want to encourage anyone going through it that they are not alone. Reach out for help and support, whether it's from family, friends, or a professional counselor. Take care of your body, mind, and spirit, and stay positive. You can beat this disease, and there is life beyond breast cancer. Make yourself proud!