Written by Sherry Dubin
It’s something you never want to hear. I certainly never expected to hear those words. But in 2018, I received a call-back after my yearly mammogram. My second mammogram confirmed my doctor’s suspicions and there was indeed something requiring next steps. I met with the doctor, then with the radiologist and was assured by both that what they saw was likely the earliest stage of breast cancer and would result in an excellent outcome.
I never considered that this would happen, however, if you look at my family history you might wonder why. My maternal grandmother, my mother, and my sister all had breast cancer. Other family members did as well. My “logic” is quite simple. I suppose anyone that knows me understands, I am an eternal optimist…to a fault. My daddy always said, “Sherry, you look at the world through rose colored glasses.” And so began my journey with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). I learned “about 80% of the DCIS cases are found by mammography” according to the National Cancer Institute.
Appointments were scheduled, many appointments. I couldn’t help but think, “How many days do I need to be away from my classroom”. After all, I felt fine, I felt great in fact. I was always diligent about my well-woman check-ups and my yearly mammograms. I knew this needed my diligence too. Ultimately, surgery was scheduled to remove the small carcinoma and a month later lymph nodes. I received radiation treatments and was prescribed a hormone blocking medication which I will take for five years. My cancer was stage one, diagnosed very early, and fortunately, was noninvasive. Just as I was told the day my mammogram was initially repeated; I would have a complete recovery. I am of course, extremely grateful and incredibly blessed. My journey, unlike many others, was and continues to be stress-free.
Obviously, early detection is critical for any diagnosis, breast cancer is certainly no exception. Statistics show that one in every eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Like you, I know many, including family members, who have faced this disease. Unfortunately, their outcomes are/were unlike mine. As with any life event, knowledge and accurate information, expert medical teams, and support are essential. My health is excellent, and my life is full and rich. I am surrounded by a loving family; a wonderful husband, two incredible sons and their wives/my daughters, and 3 precious grandchildren. I continue to be optimistic and believe Every Day is a Gift!
Just as with our family, Dubin’s Fine Jewelry believes in the power of giving back. Lenny and Jordan support many important organizations and during October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, they support Bright Pink. This organization focuses “on health, not cancer, to inspire women to practice breast and ovarian cancer prevention.” Bright Pink has programs, initiatives, and partnerships that “directly reach women in their daily lives and healthcare providers in their daily practice.” Visit Bright Pink, take a five-minute survey and get immediate feedback. Even more importantly, find your passion, give back, and make a difference in the world.
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