Anne Marie's Story
Anne Marie, a breast cancer survivor, shares her story to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and diagnosis.
From the beginning, I had people from all parts of my life tell me that everyone's walk with cancer is different. The more I come to learn about it, the more valuable I find it. I wanted to ask every question, read every article and know every detail at once. That wasn't realistic though, and it's been a steep learning curve that has humbled me.
I have been overwhelmed by my breast cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment. I began this saga by finding a lump in my breast and, being without insurance, waited three months for a mammogram and biopsy.
Thankfully, I got connected with Linda Rowan in the Women's Health Center (WHC) at Swedish Hospital. She really went above and beyond to help me find the financial, medical and emotional support needed to get through this. She introduced me to a lifesaving program, IBCCP, which is a fantastic resource for women without insurance.
After undergoing two biopsies and a breast MRI, the confirmation of cancer was devastating. It was decided that the best treatment option would be five months of chemotherapy in the hopes that the cancer shrinks enough to perform a lumpectomy. I had outpatient surgery to have a chemo port inserted under the skin of my chest and I've made it through the first series (four cycles) of chemotherapy and will be switching drugs (for 12 cycles) at my next appointment.
The hospital staff has been taking such good care me. They have explained every procedure and checked up often. Especially on my first day of treatment, where they had all sorts of distractions to keep my mind occupied.
I spoke at length with a dietitian, who also provided a very nice cookbook that includes recipes for specific symptoms I may experience during treatment. I was also able to choose a free wig and a handmade necklace that is quite lovely, made a by a volunteer. I feel like a whole person whose physical, mental and emotional health is important to each staff member I've met at Swedish Covenant Hospital, and it's made all the difference.
I feel like a whole person whose physical, mental and emotional health is important to each staff member I've met at Swedish Covenant Health, and it's made all the difference.
On a personal note, I'm still getting used to life without my long locks. I lost my hair right on schedule, starting my third week of chemotherapy. It was both easier and harder than I thought it would be, which perfectly describes my whole experience with cancer so far. I am lucky enough that my boyfriend has been willing to be my personal barber (as well as countless other things). I've been experimenting with hats and scarves, but they make me incredibly hot which was unexpected for a person who usually runs cold.
I've been lucky enough to make a career out of teaching dance and yoga, but this lifestyle offers no sick, personal or vacation days. I've managed to teach about half of my classes so far and try to take class for myself during the weeks I feel strong. I'm trying to stay active and involved in my normal routine as much as I can.
I'm hopeful that I'll be able to take on my work schedule as planned during my next round of chemotherapy. To help with personal finances, my long-standing friend (or more accurately, chosen sister) started a truly beautiful GoFundMe page and the response from my community still brings tears to my eyes. I have been truly overwhelmed by the kindness of not only friends and family, but empathetic strangers as well.
I'm getting better at taking each day as it comes and being gentle with myself and my capabilities in the present moment. It's hard, but more importantly, I'm doing it.
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Published October 1, 2019
