By Mary Sue, Gilda’s Club member
When I was diagnosed with Early-Stage Breast Cancer last summer, I kept thinking they must have notified the wrong person. Surely this wasn’t something that was happening to me! Through the further testing, preparation for Breast Conserving Surgery to remove the tumor, radiation following the surgery, and the beginning of hormone blocking medication, it still seemed like a dream much of the time.
I embraced Gilda’s Club fully, participating in guided meditation sessions, yoga, counseling, and the Breast Cancer support group. I realized when I sat in on the support group that I had nothing to add to these stories. My story seemed insignificant while listening to the stories of these brave, beautiful, (mostly younger) women who had complications and decisions to face that I felt (and honestly hoped) I would never face.
In a counseling session with Elizabeth, Program Manager at Gilda’s Club, I disclosed my feelings with her. She suggested an Early-Stage Cancer Support Group and low and behold, she got one started.
I have gotten so much out of the experience even with only a few meetings under my belt. The people in the group share all sorts of stories, ask questions of one another, and basically share (with various kinds of cancer) an experience that might not (at this point at least) be life threatening, but a deeply life changing experience none the less. Elizabeth’s kind, gentle approach to me individually and her handling of the group is so exemplary. She makes sure people feel heard and have the chance to express themselves.
Even now, almost a year later, I still am encountering surprises. Ongoing effects of radiation therapy, taking hormone blockers and the consequences of blocking even the last bit of estrogen from being produced in my body, lymphedema prevention, hair loss, monitoring osteoporosis because of the aromatase inhibitor’s side effects of causing (exacerbated) bone loss, and honestly…who knows what else?
I am committed to the opportunity of learning all I can through this unexpected path on which I find myself. Walking beside those with similar circumstances is a poignant and genuine encounter, for which I am grateful. Sharing the journey with these people is amazing.