My journey: Walking through a strange land, strange to me but known unto God...
-Muriel Jones Hines
Before my diagnosis, I served as a Lay Navigator Volunteer at our local breast cancer clinic. In this role, I supported women receiving their diagnoses and those following up with their surgeons and medical oncologists. It was fulfilling work, offering comfort and guidance to others in a time of uncertainty. But never in a million years did I imagine I would one day find myself on the opposite side—receiving the same support and comfort I once provided.
The journey began with a routine annual mammogram. Like every other year, I didn’t think much of it as I went in for the screening. But when I received a call to return for a repeat mammogram, I knew something wasn’t quite right. The repeat mammogram led to a biopsy, and as soon as I heard the news, I called my nurse navigator, someone I had worked alongside at the breast cancer clinic. She was with me every step of the way, providing the same care and reassurance I had offered to so many others.
The biopsy came back positive for breast cancer—DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma in Situ), an early but high-grade 3 cancer. It was February 26, 2022, when I received the diagnosis, and everything moved quickly. My breast surgeon, Dr. Chambers, was fully booked, but she made provisions to see me the very next week on March 2nd. By March 10th, I was scheduled for surgery. It felt like a whirlwind—everything was happening so fast.
After meeting with my breast surgeon, she explained the options I had: mastectomy, the removal of the breast, or lumpectomy, a breast-conserving surgery that removes the tumor and some healthy breast tissue for further study. I chose the lumpectomy, which required less care and was an outpatient procedure, allowing me to return home the same day. My breast surgeon said, "Good choice."
After surgery, my post-op check-up was clear, and a follow-up mammogram showed no evidence of disease. While this was great news, the next phase of my journey was 35 rounds of radiation. Hearing stories about radiation was frightening, but I had to pray and trust God to get me through. I was blessed to drive myself to treatment every day, and miraculously, I didn’t experience the fatigue, burns, or blisters I had been warned about. My radiation oncologist even complimented me on how well I cared for my skin. Since my cancer was on the left side, they used a small black box called the “fire catcher” to protect my heart from the radiation beams. Seven weeks and 35 rounds later, I rang the bell on June 22nd!
It was an emotional moment of triumph. My daughter, Tahnisha, and my sister, Laura, had organized a celebration with family, friends, oncologist nurses, and staff. There were tears of joy and gratitude for the love and support I received throughout this journey.
After completing treatment, I felt compelled to share my story. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, I spoke at several engagements, including organizing Pinktober Sunday at my church, where we celebrated survivors and honored those who had passed. I also did a phone interview with our local news channel and was a guest on Portia Bright’s show, “Coffee and Spice,” where I talked about my journey and raised awareness about breast cancer. Being a part of such efforts helped me turn my experience into a mission to inspire and educate others.
I am also part of an amazing Breast Cancer Support Group, where we encourage one another and share our experiences. My nephew, Adrian Atkinson, became an ambassador for "Men Wear Pink" of Central Eastern North Carolina, a cause he's deeply passionate about. His involvement in breast cancer advocacy began with my diagnosis, and now, he's committed to supporting efforts to find a cure.
Reflecting on my journey, I am in awe of how God, the people around me, and even my own strength got me through it all. From diagnosis to recovery, this experience has not only transformed me but has also given me a deeper sense of purpose—to spread awareness, offer hope, and encourage others to prioritize their health. The road wasn’t as tough as others traveled, but I came out stronger, and my story continues to inspire others to act and support the fight against breast cancer. Early detection saved my life and I am now two years in remission and a lifetime to go!
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