New Journey

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2001, aged 47, and had lumpectomy followed by 7 weeks of radiotherapy and then prescribed tamoxifen for 5 years. No big deal, 6 months off work and then back to normal life. That was the end of that, so I thought! Then in 2007, after nearly 12 months of pain in my left leg in particular, and a little in my hips, I was diagnosed with secondaries in the bones. Shock horror! I thought my life was almost over! But thanks to some wonderful, ongoing treatments, none of which have been too unpleasant, I am still plodding along. Due to having a titanium rod inserted in my femur to hold the bone together, I have slowed down somewhat but am embracing life to the fullest with wonderful family, friends and work colleagues. In the last couple of years I have climbed the Sydney Harbour bridge, explored the Blue Mountains, parasailed and been white water rafting in Bali, had two wonderful holidays in the USA, Alaska and Canada, among other things. I have continued to teach two days a week and love that I can! Out of all the cancers to get stricken with, I think I have the best as far as keeping it under control goes. I am forever grateful to the wonderful medical staff who continue to look after me.