I first discovered I had Stage 1 Breast Cancer in August of 2005. I had felt a small lump a couple of months prior, but I just ignored it. I was at a Dr. apt. and mentioned it to him. I just couldn’t believe it was me with cancer. I had a lumpectomy, six weeks of radiation and four years of oral chemo. No hair loss and no mastectomy…it was just a breeze. The initial shock had subsided.
I have a daughter, so I thought it might be a good idea to do the BRACA testing. All came back negative. I really felt relieved. In 2011 I was once again diagnosed with BC. This time it was metastatic stage 4. I started again with oral chemo, and then IV. This time I did lose all of my hair, my eyelashes, my eyebrows, even leg hair. I have always had long blonde hair and it had to be just right or you don’t leave the house. It is amazing how much you rely on your looks, your hair, until you don’t have it!
My sister went thru all of this before I did and has had such a positive influence on me. My sister was diagnosed with Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer in 2008. She went thru surgeries and chemo. She lost her hair.. She went into remission till 2011 and has since bee back in treatment. My mother passed away from colon cancer in October of 2010.
I can’t say this journey hasn’t been rough at times, but I keep myself surrounded with positive people. I am fortunate enough to have been blessed with an incredible team of doctors and their staffs along with the caring nursing staff at Desert Hospital. I have an excellent support system, my daughter, my grandkids, my family and friends and neighbors.
In the beginning, I felt naked without my wig…now I know it doesn’t really matter. I am beautiful regardless. I am a fighter and intend to be around for a while! I really want to thank all of the ladies at the Turning Heads Project for the fabulous day! You are all awesome. You truly made me feel beautiful and sexy again! The love and compassion you give is overwhelming.
These are beautiful pic of Theresa and her daughter, Nicole. This is such a wonderful and giving projects for folks fighting all stages of cancer. Thanks so much for sharing your time and best wishes with your future projects!
Oh Terri you are so beautiful. Jean is SO proud of you. All her off-spring are truly amazing. Pat looked at this also and together we say Life Well Lived—we both love you and all Jeans tribe. Peg and Pat
Beautiful pictures sis! After losing my hair 3 times to chemo, I have discovered that it is just an accessory and certainly does not make us who we are. Love you – stay positive!
Amazing!