My name is Pauline.

On March 1, 2006 my yearly mammogram revealed calcium in my right breast.  I saw my surgeon, Dr. Jane Hanscom on March 7, 2006 and after a review of the x-rays and report, she had me scheduled for a needle biopsy on April 7, 2006.  At the time, she thought it was only calcium but wanted to be sure. (She told me to decide when I wanted the procedure done so the date April 7th was chosen by me.)  After not hearing anything for a couple of days after the procedure, I thought everything was cool, but it was not.  On April 13, 2006 I received a call from Dr. Hanscom close to 5:00 P.M., while at work (preparing to leave for the day) telling me she had bad news to report.  The lab found cancer in the milk ducts of my right breast and I would need more surgery around the area where the calcium was found.  I shall never forget how fast my heart was beating and how hollow I felt.  I felt like I was in a fog with no one to share with.

I returned to her office April 18, 2006 and was scheduled for additional surgery on April 28, 2006.  This time I was left with a draining tube hanging from y breast.  Dr. Hanscom informed me at this time that I would need radiation treatment after surgery.  The results of the April 28th procedure were not conclusive enough so Dr. Hanscom told me should would only go in one more time, and if she couldn't reach it all (cancer in milk ducts) she would be taking my breast off.  Can you feel me?

I am in my own zone; gone.  Another surgery was scheduled for May 19, 2006.  (Keep in mind, I've been cut in the same area 3x counting the biopsy).  May 19th turned out to be my blessing.  I returned to Dr. Hanscom's office on May 23, 2006 and when she came into the examining room I could detect that the news was good.  I hugged her and then shouted for joy in her outer office.  There were two patients sitting there but I could not contain my joy.  God had brought me a mighty long way via prayer, prayer, prayer and fasting.

Postscript: I went through 30 daily radiation treatments and worked each day.  I felt lousy but would not give up or give in.  I still remember on a couple of occasions after getting on the table for radiation I just started crying and until today I can't explain why. I am now cancer free 18 months and feel truly blessed and highly favored plus some (smile).  There were several miracles God worked out along this trial time and trust me, I know it was only Him and His grace who could have worked my favorable outcome.  Let me also share with each person who reads or hears this.  Your yearly mammogram examination is very important to have and to get on schedule.  Because of my yearly checkouts, the radiologist was able to detect something unusual right away from the last mammogram examination.  I beg you, please don't put your yearly exams off and don't be afraid to have it done.  It is better to be safe than sorry.