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Newly Diagnosed > Choices after a Breast Cancer Diagnosis |
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By Linda Jackson
Cure Magazine, Breast Cancer Issue, Vol. 2 No. 3 / Fall 2003
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 36, I was flooded with advice from my family and friends. Everyone had a different opinion and recommendation about what my choices should be concerning treatment, which surgeon would be best, which was the better hospital, radiation vs. chemotherapy. People were most outspoken with their suggestions about my surgical options of breast conserving lumpectomy or a modified radical mastectomy, and of course everyone assumed, immediate reconstruction.
For me the choices were clear, I was young with a husband, small children and aging parents, I wanted to live. I opted for the mastectomy, which at that time offered the most positive results and required no follow up treatment. I felt confident this was my best chance for becoming and remaining cancer free. I considered having a silicone implant or reconstruction for about two minutes, then decided replacing my breast surgically was just not that important to me.
Four years later in 1989 the cancer returned in my other breast. This time the diagnosis was invasive carcinoma with metastatic bone involvement. I underwent a second mastectomy and an oopherectomy, then began taking Tamoxifen. In the years between my two mastectomies, both reconstructive breast surgery and saline implants had improved dramatically. Again I contemplated reconstruction and again I chose not to do so. To this day there are still people who question my choice and who ask if I have ever had regrets.
When making the decision about reconstructive breast surgery there are many factors for women to consider, including lifestyle, general health and the additional recovery time. If radiation is recommended, she may have to postpone surgery until treatment is completed. High on the list of concerns may be her fears and apprehension about body and self-image. Women have different psychological responses, and the reality of losing one or both breasts can be more difficult for some to overcome than others.
There are women who are convinced there is no positive alternative to breast reconstruction and that if they opt against it they will never again feel complete. Unfortunately, at a time when she is often frightened, confused and overwhelmed, some women may feel pressured by family, friends or members of their healthcare team who believe they know what is best. It is important for her to understand that if she is not able to make a comfortable decision by the time of surgery, she can wait. The reconstruction can be performed anytime in the future with just as successful an outcome.
Even though I elected not to undergo breast reconstruction myself, I am grateful that the option is available. Many women choose to do so and are very satisfied with the results. However, this surgery is not for every woman, nor should it ever be assumed that this is what she should be inclined to do.
It has been thirteen years since my reoccurrence and thankfully I continue to be in remission. I remain healthy, active and comfortable wearing my external post mastectomy products. I do not feel self conscious, less attractive, or like 'half of a woman' because my breasts have been removed. I am happy to be alive and living a normal, fulfilling life as an almost 18 year survivor.
The good thing about a breast cancer diagnosis if there is one, is that there is generally time to process, grieve, absorb, visit a breast cancer support group, gather information, get professional opinions and make an informed decision. We are fortunate because this is one time we do have the opportunity to maintain some control over what happens to our body and our future quality of life.
It is critical that each patient be provided with updated information and resources as well as objective emotional support as she weighs all of the options that are available to her. Only then will she be able to make a confident and educated decision based on her own individual needs and desires.
Linda Jackson, Breast Cancer Survivor
Ladies First, Inc., President
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