Community Member Spotlight: Kristine Cole

We are highlighting all those living with metastatic breast cancer. Whether you have just been newly diagnosed or have been managing breast cancer for many years. Your story matters and makes a difference in the world. Today we highlight Kristine Cole, who was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015 but then later came back and spread to her bones.

How & when were you diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer?

My first diagnosis of breast cancer was in October of 2015. I had to have two surgeries because we didn’t get them all the first time. Then I just had radiation which went okay until the end which it really was burned. Now that I know from your articles that breast cancer has such a high rate of coming back which no one told me I would have had chemo also. Don’t know if it would have made any difference. My second diagnosis was February 18, 2019, and that was bone cancer.

What treatments did you have following your diagnosis? How did the treatments and side effects impact your life?

Had chemo and Petuzumab and Trastuzumab. Handled it pretty well. Always had diarrhea three days after and was tired. Still have Pertuzumab and Trastuzumab every three weeks and also a bone repair drug every three months. Echos every six weeks.

What's your favorite part about AdvancedBreastCancer.net? How has online support helped you?

The articles and the people’s responses to them help me a lot. Your articles are very informative because doctors don’t always tell you everything so now I know what questions to ask. I like your feedback to me and your concern. All so very kind.

What advice would you give to someone who is newly diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer?

Don’t let cancer be the winner. Keep fighting. Believe me, I know the pain. Every bone in my body hurts. I love to vegetable garden my daughter and I have a huge one. When I am done hoeing or pulling weeds believe me I know the pain. I don’t like taking pain pills but if I have to to get through I do. Keep positive I know it is hard some days. I get really depressed some days and just sleep so I don’t have to think about it but then I kick myself in the butt and get moving. So I put on Old Rock 50’s 60’s and dance with my vacuum cleaner think of my four girls, my grandchildren (six of them!), and the little ones at school. I use Epsom salt with essentials oils and use panaway the most for my bath every night. Also, one gummy of CBD oil to help me sleep - it does pretty well usually.

Have you had to experience recurrence of breast cancer? Comment below to let us know if you'd like to share your diagnosis story with our community.