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Home > Collective Diary > Angie's story

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Angie's story

1-3Months

Angie L. on March 31, 2013

I was Diagnosed with:

Invasive ductal carcinoma/ ductal carcinoma in situ

Employment Status:

barber/taking a break :(

Gender/Age:

Female/42

Type and Description of Treatments:

So far I have had a bilateral mastectomy plus one step implant reconstruction. Due to start chemotherapy the second week of April as long as plastic surgeons gives the okay!

How do you feel today?

I feel better, physically than I did a few days ago. The emotions, how to handle work, suppport my soon to be 13 yr. old and how to deal with my upcoming treatments are taking their toll on me!

Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your life?

I've had alot of friends and family come to my side and truly want to help. They have been so caring, bringing food and flowers! I feel more blesssed to know I have some wonderful people in my life, some I haven't seen since high school have come to see me and another friend (also a breast cancer survivor) started a page of prayer on facebook for me!

What is going well for you right now?

The support of my family! My daughter and I had to move into my mothers' house due to the cancer. We have a roof over our heads and food to eat. My mom and dad are helping me get my daughter to school, something I use to do. also, she has a big field trip coming up with her chior, my mom and dad will also be helping, money wise with that. So, all in all i'm doing well as long as my daughter has what she needs to remain as normal a life as she can while I go through this!

What is not going well for you right now?

I don't get to work, that's not good in my proffesion. I cut hair, I use my arms alot and with the surgery I just had, I can't! I'm also worried about how low my immune system will be while doing chemo and if I will even be able to work then. My clients are another concern, they become your friends after so many years,but i'm afraid the effects of surgery and chemo may hinder my performance!

What has been the most challenging thing about having cancer?

At first it was all the waiting I had to do, that really messes with your head, emotions, whatever.Having to tell my daughter, mother,friends and boss. Now, resting up after surgery, i'm not a lazy person. So having to let people help me is hard!

When difficulties overwhelm you, where do you go for support?

Friends, or my new favorite has been chatting with women on breastcancer.org!

How have your long-term goals or life goals changed since diagnosis?

Not sure yet....but i'm definitley more appreciative than ever before!

What is your work arrangement right now? What are your hours?

None, can't hold my arms up to cut hair right now.

Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your work life?

Came to a screeeching halt!!!!!!

If "today's you" could give advice to "day-of-diagnosis you," what would you say?

Don't be so scared, you have lots of people that love you!

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