Melissa Lowe
Breast Cancer Survivor
“My Name is Melissa Lowe and I was diagnosed with Stage 2 Breast Cancer, specifically Invasive Ductal Carcinoma.”
BREAST CANCER JOURNEY
Diagnosis
It was a regular day that started with a hot shower. I left my job a month prior so I had nowhere to go and I absolutely took advantage of that in the mornings. Thank goodness for my renewed focus on self-care because I noticed something strange. A small, hard knot under my arm. I immediately wondered if it could be cancer because it runs in my family. I prayed and then called out for my husband to feel it to make sure I wasn’t over-reacting. Let me just say that when it comes to your health, please don’t let anyone tell you that you’re over-reacting. We called the doctor the next day and there began the tests and scans that led to my diagnosis.
I found out I had cancer on December 23, 2020. At the time, my doctor only knew it was cancer, not necessarily what type of cancer it was. I don’t think it mattered much that day. Just hearing the words, “It is cancer” is specific enough. I was okay initially and then found myself in tears suddenly. I am so grateful to my doctor, because she offered to call my husband and break the news. The hardest part in the beginning is telling the people you love. I will be forever grateful to her for sharing that burden with me.
Treatment
Before I speak about my actual treatment plan, I think it’s important to feel comfortable with how you come to a diagnosis. I strongly believe in second opinions. I went to MD Anderson in Houston, TX and they were on the same page as my local oncologist. That made me feel so much better about mentally wrapping my brain around what I had to do next.
Based on the characteristics of my tumor and my BRCA1 status, my treatment plan included 5 months of chemotherapy and surgery. What was surprising to me is that stage and the need for radiation, could not be confirmed until surgery. Chemo was challenging mentally, physically and emotionally but I had the absolute best support system and made it through one day at a time. The most difficult part of chemo especially for a proud person is accepting so much help. I would literally lay on the couch for days mustering up only enough energy to eat and go to the bathroom. I had to put my pride aside and let my family take care of me. It was hard but after a few weeks, I let go of the guilt I had from needing help and just focused on getting better. If I could go back in time, I would have done that sooner.
Survivorship
Now, that I am NED (have no evidence of disease) and am done with chemo and my double mastectomy with reconstruction, I am trying to get back to “normal” life. I do feel like I’m walking around with eyes wide open because I realize just how precious life is.
So, even though I wouldn’t want to go through breast cancer again, I see my diagnosis as a gift. It’s harder for me to take life for granted. My family and community really stepped up for me in ways that still bring me to tears when I think about it. Other moms offered to pick up my kids from school, friends sent me care packages and people I didn’t know as well sent me messages of encouragement and support. I learned firsthand that when you open your heart, you can get so much love in return. My focus going forward is simple. Make sure the people I love know how much I love them, do good in the world and inspire others to live life authentically.
Five Key Take-Aways & Words of Advice
Be empowered in your own health journey. Do your research about topics such as birth control and family history and go to your doctor’s appointments with questions. You should walk out of your appointments feeling educated and confident. If that’s not the case, find a new doctor.
Get a second opinion. This made me feel so much better about mentally wrapping my brain around my diagnosis and what I had to do next.
Focus on self-care, family and staying positive. Try not to feel guilty about accepting help from your family and friends. Make new memories, spend time with loved ones and do more of what brings you joy.
Connect with other breast cancer survivors and your community. I shared my journey in hopes that it would help maybe one person navigate this confusing space, but I was surprised by how much it would help me. Take the time to create space for others to come in, because it’ll only make life more meaningful.
Seek support and work with organizations like CSVI to point you in the direction of other financial and education resources available to you as well. If you don’t have insurance, or the right insurance, cancer can set you back financially. Cancer is expensive and the journey is long. This is not the time to be shy so please don’t be afraid to ask a question or reach out for support.
Cancer Support VI
I worked with the Director of CSVI at a previous company and shared my story, not thinking about financial resources but just to get an idea for what kinds of things I should consider. Anique Harrigan was a treasure trove of information and was 100% willing to share it all. She connected me with the American Cancer Society and shared other local resources I should be aware of. I was truly thankful.
When you are newly diagnosed with cancer, there are so many unknowns. This is what Cancer Support VI does day in and day out, so they know where to start and can guide you towards the right information and assistance. That can mean everything to a cancer patient that has been thrusted into the complex and uncertain world of cancer. It gave me one less thing to worry about. While the information is important, what I love the most about Cancer Support VI is the way they treat you. All physicians and medical staff are not created equal and as a patient, you interact with so many people at the beginning. As much as you wish they were, those encounters are not always pleasant. Anique, at CSVI, showed so much care and concern for me and my family. How you treat people when they are going through challenging times can mean just as much as money. Thank you, CSVI, for focusing on the people as well as the process!
This Pinktober, join us in raising funds, celebrating women's health, promoting cancer awareness, and honoring breast cancer fighters and survivors.
Donate today and double the support. All donations will be matched up to $100,000!