Post-Cancer Milestone

Orange Fuzzy and I celebrating a milestone.
Five years ago, on May 20, 2013, I took my last radiation treatment and completed my battle with breast cancer.

Studies show that if you survive five years after cancer treatment, you have a much better chance of it never recurring. There is also a recent study that states breast cancer patients with an elevated risk of recurrence (like me) do better if they take anti-cancer medication for 10 years, instead of five. I am a two-time cancer survivor and both my mom and sister are breast cancer survivors.

What they don't tell you is that there are serious side effects from Arimidex, the drug I have taken for the last five years: bone pain, arthritis-like symptoms, depression, mood swings, night sweats, dramatic weight gain, fatigue and a few others too personal to mention.

I want to live. I have things to do; items to cross off my bucket list. And I love my life right now. My oncologist gave me the choice. God, the Hubster and I made the decision--I will continue the meds for another five years.

In reality, my cancer battle is not over. I will continue to contend for the rest of my life. I'm fighting for days and years, fun and memories, parties and friends..and love. Lots and lots of love.

***

Notable Quote:

Deuteronomy 20:3-4 (KJV) And shall say unto them, Hear, O Israel, ye approach this day unto battle against your enemies: let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be ye terrified because of them; For the LORD your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.

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