By AJ Newton October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month. It is an annual campaign to raise awareness for breast cancer. Over the years, people have been trying to take bigger steps to raise money and find a cure. My grandmother, who I call “Mom-mom”, was diagnosed with breast cancer a few years ago. Thankfully, after months of radiation and prayers, she survived. Q: When were you diagnosed and at what age? A: I was diagnosed with cancer in May of 2011. I was seventy-three years old. The second time was in February of this year. Q: What stage were you diagnosed with? A: I was diagnosed with sclerosing complex papilloma with atypia which is a type of breast cancer. When I was diagnosed for the second time, it was the same type of breast cancer, but just worse. Q: How was the cancer initially detected? A: It was detected through mammograms and ultrasounds. Q: How did you feel when you first received the news? A: Devastated. Cancer is a terrible thing. When someone tells you that you have cancer, it's not only you that is upset, but it's your whole family, and I didn’t want to see my family upset over this. Q: Is there a family history of breast cancer? A: No, there is not. Q: What was your treatment process like? A: They did a left breast excisional biopsy, which is when the whole abnormal area is removed. It was very painful. Q: What message would you like to provide women in the community? A: Breast self-examinations. It’s a very important thing. Check at least once a month. Q: Have you completely recovered? A: Yes, but it is possible that I can get it again because my type of breast cancer is pretty rare. Q: If someone has a loved one who is going through breast cancer, what advice would you give them? A: Be strong. There is nothing they can do but be there for their family. Q: How has breast cancer affected your outlook on life? A: I’m very thankful that it wasn’t very serious, but it hasn't really changed my outlook on life. Q: Is there anything else you have to say about the topic of breast cancer? A: Get self-examinations and make sure you have a doctor you like!
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