Tell us about your symptoms and treatment experience. Take our survey here.

Living in the Moment, My Future Is Now!

In July 2015 during aggressive chemotherapy for stage 2 ER/PR positive invasive ductal carcinoma breast cancer, I developed mild wheezing. In Sept 2015, the mild wheezing lead to a CT scan. (I’m still told the wheezing is not related to my lungs!)

At this time a tiny “something” was seen by the radiologist on one of my lungs which lead to CT scans every 6 months. After exactly two years of monitoring my lungs, I now had small bilateral lung nodules. A few grew larger in size and could be safely biopsied.

Stage 4 breast cancer diagnosis

After a grueling lung surgery to remove a small wedge of my lung with the largest nodule on it, my biggest fear was confirmed. My breast cancer had traveled to my lungs. Most likely de novo stage 4 from initial diagnosis.

My soul was crushed My thoughts immediately went to my beautiful daughter who had just turned one. A daughter I fought years to have and finally achieved this dream with successfully making 5 embryos and a friend offering to be my surrogate during my initial diagnosis.

The more I heard it was getting harder to breathe, for the first time since my breast cancer diagnosis I was truly petrified. Petrified I would not see my daughter grow up.

No cure for metastatic breast cancer

I knew there was no cure for metastatic breast cancer. I understood advanced breast cancer was terminal and I would be on some sort of treatment to extend my life until there were no more options. The life expectancy of metastatic breast cancer is 24-36 months on average.

An extremely difficult pill to swallow at 40 years old. Over 5 years out from when they first saw the lung nodule. I feel I have defied the odds and have hope I’ll get more time with my daughter, family & friends. ❤️

This is my story.

Help others feel a little less alone.

By providing your email address, you are agreeing to our privacy policy.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The AdvancedBreastCancer.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

Join the conversation

Please read our rules before commenting.

Community Poll

Have you taken our In America survey yet?