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Age: 40-49
stage one
breast cancer

Two and a half years ago I had a mastectomy with reconstruction surgery. The experience has totally changed my life, and I believe for the better.

The most important thing this experience taught me, is that mental and physical healing happen at different rates and not necessarily in synch with each other. I returned to work 7 weeks after my surgery, suppressing inside my sadness and fear of the cancer reoccurring. What I discovered, was I could not hold these feelings inside for long. After 5-6 months of trying to outwardly appear strong, it hit me like a ton of bricks. I was very depressed and I hated my body.

This is when I first realized that my priorities were out of whack, so I decided to make many lifestyle changes. Since then I have been able to keep my eyes focused ahead regardless of what the future may bring.

I believe we all go through this process, but everyone at her own rate. You've got to keep your focus positive and maintain a positive attitude. Remember to live each day as if it were your last.

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