From diagnosis to surgery to recovery, it was all a very coordinated effort.
Veronica enjoys many of the same activities in life that the rest of us do, like spending time with family and friends. But one day in 2009, her whole world began to change when she noticed an irregularity on her breast. Her father had passed away eight months earlier from prostate cancer – giving Veronica a heightened awareness of the importance of early detection. Over the next few months, she noticed that the irregularity began to change and she knew it was time to get it evaluated.
Veronica made an appointment with Bronson OB/GYN Associates in search of some answers. They performed a thorough breast exam, a mammogram, ultrasound and needle biopsy. “The nurse explained everything to me, including what was going to happen next and exactly what I should expect. She was very kind and generous throughout the whole experience,” Veronica said. After the extensive testing, the radiologist called Veronica to share the news that she had been dreading. She had breast cancer.
“It was all a very coordinated effort. So many people went out of their way to make sure I received the best care possible. It was such a caring environment,” Veronica stated. In just over a week of being diagnosed, Veronica was scheduled to have surgery with Dr. Daniel Stewart. Thanks to Dr. Randy Mudge, radiation oncologist at The Cancer Care Center, and the amazing medical professionals, friends and family, I made it through a tough year of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation treatment and recuperation. In April 2011, after my six month follow-up, my oncologist gave me the amazing news that I was cancer free.
Veronica’s advice to others who are going through a similar situation is simple; to have hope, believe, to not be afraid and to have faith.
Veronica continues to get a yearly mammogram at Bronson to ensure she remains in good health. She knows regular mammograms and check-ups help her be her own best advocate, which is something she widely promotes. “Now, I live every moment running for life. My family and I celebrate every event as a significant memory. A woman should be her own best advocate for early detection of breast cancer.”
As a cancer survivor, Veronica’s outlook on life has changed significantly. She is more aware of everyday moments, is less stressed and much more outspoken. Veronica makes much more of an effort to live for the good things in life and strengthen the connections she has with her family and friends. “My favorite past time is listening to my family with all of the noise and laughter. I have learned to embrace what I have in my personal life: people, not things, are most important.”
