"In 2011, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I couldn’t believe that my first mammogram, at the age of 40, would be my last. Within a few days of my diagnosis I met with my oncologist at the D’Amour Center for Cancer Care where they explained the details surrounding my diagnosis. During the visit I was handed a three ring binder with information pertaining to decisions regarding reconstruction. I felt as though there was no time to think or comprehend what was happening. I was in complete shock and I was at a loss for words. I couldn’t believe that in just a few weeks I’d be having the biggest surgery of my life.

 

At this point all I thought of were my sons who were nineteen, fifteen and eight years old at the time. The question I kept asking myself was, ‘How do I break the news to them?’ As I found the courage, I proceeded to tell them I had good news and bad news and asked which they wanted to hear first. They replied, “Good news first, Ma.” I explained to them that their mother was going to be around for a long, long time but the bad news was they were going to have a ‘One Tata Mommy.’ By saying that I was hoping to see a grin instead of a tear. I think it worked.

A few weeks later I ended up having a bilateral mastectomy. The breast reconstruction took years of decision making, which has affected me both physically and emotionally. I became a Nana during my recovery and I must say that my granddaughter gave me another reason to fight! By this point I blocked out the fact that I had a breast cancer. I became more determined than ever to overcome my many fears. I had a husband, our boys and an 80-year-old grandma whom I cared for that was living with us. My normal life as a wife, mother, and care giver was turned upside down. I did not know or understand – I just kept asking myself why this was happening to me.

 

During this time, I became involved with Rays of Hope Walk & Run Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer. My husband, Al, thought of a team name ‘Las Luchadoras,’ which means ‘The Fighters.’ The fact that so many people in the community you live in have been impacted either personally or via their loved one sends a message and speaks volumes. For all these years, my family, extended family and friends participated in the walk with me. I look forward to this celebration. I always feel like it’s another birthday and I get to share it with thousands of supporters. What a party, all dressed up in PINK!