FEELING BLESSED

Yesterday I celebrated my 60th birthday and so looking forward to my party on Saturday.  Since my diagnosis in 2006, my journey has certainly been challenging but I am still smiling and living a quality life thanks to medical technology, tenacity on my behalf and a willingness to keep myself as healthy as possible, physically and mentally.

I am blessed, because:-

My gorgeous family of men who have been with me and are with me all the way.

My wonderful sister and brother-in-law who give lots of love and generosity in sharing what they have with us. 

My guardian angels; Rae and Shaz who have taken me to so many chemotherapy appointments.   They are so dear to me.

To my other mates who constantly look out for me and have given me endless hours of happiness and heaps of care.

To my medical team – Dr. Mitchell Chipman, Oncologist extraordinaire, a magnificent human being; his support, Mary-Ann and the wonderful Janine Mount and team at St. Vincents Onocology unit.  My Radio Neurologist,  Dr. Claire Phillips from Peter Mac.  I consider these people my family as they have looked after me for 11 years!!!

In recent times, my physical conditioning team at Plenty Valley Health and YMCA in Mill Park.   So good.

BCNA who has provided help in so many ways during my journey and allowed me to be involved in some of their initiatives as a Consumer Representative.  I have found this invaluable, as it gives me a purpose and a way to share what I have experienced and gain knowledge on latest technologies and of course connect with people going through a similar journey;  sharing hurdles faced living with Advanced Breast Cancer.  Comfort in knowing you are not alone.

My 60th birthday party means so much more to me having Advanced Breast Cancer.   I have lost my health but have appreciation of what I have and thank my blessing every day.   I was told I only have 3 years to live in 2007 and here I am.   So, for now I have a chronic illness that is managed.  

Life is great!

Karen Cowley

Survivor 11 Years