Young with Breast Cancer

Hi Z.!

I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer Oct 2006. I had a double mastectomy and reconstruction. I went with implants (the new silicone ones ... they were recommended by my surgeon and look more natural). Also, nipple reconstruction was not appealing to me. Permanent "high beams". I went with tatoos/permanent makeup and have been very happy with the results. If you live in the Colo Springs area, I can recommend Gregory Liebscher (plastic surgeon) and Judee Rierson (permanent makeup). Both specialize in breast reconstruction/restoration. Your insurance company may try to deny benefits. They are required by Federal Law to cover reconstruction, including nipple restoration however you choose to do it, and to augment your other breast to "match". If they deny the claim, tell them you'll be contacting the State Insurance Commissioner. It took me a few months, but all was covered!

Best wishes!!!
L.

I was diagnosed at age 45 last October 2007 after a huge lumpectomy in March 07. I had a double in November. I did not have to have any treatments either. I had my expanders put in 60 days after the mastectomy and then had the permanent implants put in at the end of June. I am feeling Wonderful!!! It has been a long hall even though I did not have to have treatment and it feels so good to be getting back to "normal" again. I would love to email with you and give you heads up as you need it---I had wonderful friends who had all been through it already and I tell ya, that is what helped me get through!

I'm not a survivor, so can't comment personally. I will refer you to a book co-written by a friend of mine. It is "Nordie's at noon" and details the experiences of 4 women who were diagnosed young. In my friends case, she was in her early 20s. The women detail their reconstruction choices, and you can see what they all do, and why. The book is available online from Borders/Amazon/etc. It is a good read for anyone with loves ones who have experienced or are experiencing breast cancer.

S.

Z.,
I have not had breast cancer but just wanted to let you know that I hope you have a complete cure and rapid recovery from your reconstruction. I am putting good energy into the universe for you today.
Ty

Z.,

I am sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I was diagnosed 3 years ago with stage 2, had a lumpectomy, and did chemo and radiation. Today, I am doing well, with no sign of its return. So far, so good. So, there is some hope for life after diagnosis. I am a bit older than you - age 55. If I can help you at all, please feel free to contact me directly.

Nobody is immune, unfortunately. Heck, it's been in the news a bunch lately because Christina Applegate just got diagnosed 4 months ago. She decided to have a double mastectomy because her mom battled breast cancer for years. She's only 36.

The supportive family and friends is all you'll need to get along great, but if you need more, find a local support group. It can feel like those who haven't gone through it don't understand at all and it really helps to have other people who have to talk it out with. Good luck!

Wow! You have your hands full and a lot is going on in your life! We will pray for you and your family. Please let me know if I can help watch your kids. We live in the HR, CO area....Email me if I can help you out...We really would love to help...