Being diagnosed with breast cancer has been one of the toughest things I have had to deal with. My gut was telling me something wasn't right and my GP was reluctant to send me for a mammogram or have any type of tests done. She was adamant because I was under 50 that it was unnecessary. If I hadn't of pushed and advocated for myself, I don't know where I would be today.

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I have no family history so it was a total shock and it still baffles me how I ended up with breast cancer. I was scared and I just wanted the cancer gone as quickly as possible. I had all the scans and tests done and I was so close to needing chemotherapy, however my breast surgeon recommended a lumpectomy and radiation as my treatment plan based off one test coming back negative. 

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From the moment I started treatment I decided I would buy myself the horse I've always wanted - a palomino beauty. Her name is Holly and she has become my therapy horse. She has been my one constant that I can talk to, cry with and just be with her. She has supported me through this rollercoaster and I'm so glad I made the decision to get her - it was the best thing I have done for myself.

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Radiation was very hard for me. I had issues with seromas and badly burnt skin. I'm now left with scars and it's a huge reminder to me on a daily basis of what I've gone through. This is something I'm still trying to work through, I'm still conscious of the outfits I wear now. There is a lot of ongoing side effects that I deal with even though I look fine now. 

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Cancer has really changed my outlook on life. I've chosen not to wait anymore, so I use my nice dinner sets every day and I choose to wear my favourite perfume no matter where I'm headed out. Embracing life just that little bit more! I'm so grateful to be able to see my son grow up and I love spending time with my family and all my farm animals. I really try to enjoy the little things and appreciate the small wins in life. 

 

I'm still on hormone treatment which plays havoc with my body. I've had to try multiple medications to find the right one for me which hasn't been easy. There are a lot of side effects being on these medicines and It's hard not to think the worst when I'm dealing with a new pain or weird symptom. Cancer brings so much anxiety and it's a real struggle every day. 

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Even with all the anxiety, I do not let this define my life. People call this whole thing a 'journey' but I like to call it a 'detour'. My life is the journey, and I was headed on one path, this has just been a terrible bumpy detour.