Breast Cancer: Gerda's Patient Story

What happened, in summary

Gerda Martin was 73 when she reflected on breast cancer diagnosed in 2008. She first noticed a change during a sauna visit: her nipple was pulling inward. She went to her gynecologist, and further testing led to the diagnosis. Surgery removed her right breast. The loss of the breast shocked her, and even 5 years later she still struggled with the change in her appearance. She decided against breast reconstruction because, at age 70, she did not want to put her body through another major procedure, although she sometimes questioned that decision. Gerda then learned that chemotherapy was also needed. The news devastated her, especially because she had watched a friend suffer during treatment. Her own chemotherapy caused strong side effects, and after each treatment her partner had to drive her to the hospital the next day. After chemotherapy, she received radiation therapy and then rehabilitation. She later continued tamoxifen and bisphosphonates and went to lymph drainage every week. Radiation left tissue changes, and fatigue often made daily life harder. Friends played a major role in recovery by encouraging her to go dancing even when she felt tired. Gerda tried to listen to her body, rest when needed, accept what had happened, and keep going.