Keep faith, be positive and stay off the internet
Breast cancer survivor Michelle Newton shares her advice.
It was about two and-a-half years ago that a University Health (UH) Patient Navigator called me to confirm my breast cancer diagnosis. She reminded me that my kind of cancer had a high survival rate, and I instantly thought, ‘I’m a survivor,’ so let’s get the show on the road and do what needs to be done.
Before my diagnosis I knew that I had a lump, but like the rest of the world, the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted my regular screenings. Once diagnosed, my treatment included a double mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. During treatment, I worked as a house manager at a transitional living organization. I lived on-site with 10 women, and strived to remain productive, because I knew that serving others helped me to stay strong in my walk with cancer.
About six months ago, doctors finally removed my port - a device (usually placed on the chest) that makes it easier for providers to administer chemotherapy and draw blood. With it gone, there was no longer a physical reminder of my cancer. But as far as I’m concerned, I’ll always be a cancer survivor.
In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness month, the UH Public Relations team asked me to share my experience and insight. I want the women who’ve just found out about their cancer to know that a diagnosis is not the end, rather it’s just part of your story. Stay positive and pay attention to your body. If you have a family, rely on them for support. But if your family is grieving too, it can help to look outside that circle. I found it comforting to talk with people who were also receiving cancer treatment.
It’s also okay to ask questions. If you’re uncertain about a procedure or medicine, ask for more information. Be transparent. If you’re angry, it’s okay to scream. If you’re confused, it’s okay to ask, ‘why?’
Cancer doesn’t come with a handbook, but it certainly comes with a lot of paperwork. And chances are you’re not going to be able to process the information instantly. It was helpful for me to keep all my paperwork in a three-ring binder, so I knew where it was if I needed to look at it later.
And please stay off the Internet. I know you’re looking for information, but the first results are always the bad stuff. Ask your doctor or nurse where you can go to get reliable information.
I currently serve as an outreach coordinator for Relentless Pursuit Outreach and Recovery, a local, faith-based organization working to end human trafficking. It’s really a blessing to be able to serve these women, because it’s all about love. And God is love. My faith has been such an important part of my cancer journey. After my diagnosis, I heard God’s voice say, ‘I got you.’ That’s a whole other story, but the things that God has allowed me to overcome, survive and learn, well cancer had nothing on the things I’ve already been through in life. The obstacles I’ve overcome prepared me to go through my cancer walk with confidence, knowing God has His plan for me.