Stage I Breast Cancer: Shirley's Survivor Story

What happened, in summary

Shirley, from Canada, was diagnosed with Stage I breast cancer in 2016 after finding a hard lump in her left breast. The news brought anger, fear and sadness, although she also held onto a sense of hope. Her doctors recommended breast-conserving surgery with lumpectomy and lymph node removal, followed by chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Shirley completed treatment and now says she is in remission. Hair loss, loss of appetite and weight changes were among the treatment effects she found difficult, and she relied on healthier eating and rest to help her cope. She did not report major financial difficulties during treatment. Since finishing treatment, Shirley has continued to focus on eating well and living as fully as possible with her family. One of her deepest fears had been that she would not be there for them or that surgery might not remove all of the cancer. She now describes herself as optimistic, confident and thankful and wants to make life meaningful both for herself and for other people. Her message to others centers on faith, hope and not giving up.