Sister Survivors: " What were you diagnosed with, and what treatments did you have? Who were your doctors?"
Beth: "I was diagnosed with Ductal carcinoma in situ, grade 3. My surgeon was Jennifer Tittensor. My plastic surgeon was Jon Bishop, and my oncologist is Steven Wallentine."
Sister Survivors: "How did your cancer diagnosis affect your family and friends?"
Beth: "I was the first member of my family to have cancer so no one really knew what to do or how to handle it. We talked about it a lot but did not let it take over our lives. We tried to laugh as much as possible even at the scary things."
Sister Survivors: "What was the hardest thing you had to go through during your cancer journey? What helped get you through it?"
Beth: "Physically the hardest thing was recovering from surgery. I had never been seriously ill before. Mentally, getting used to my new reality as a cancer survivor with a very altered body. My family was so helpful and supportive with everything I needed."
Sister Survivors: "How did your cancer diagnosis change your life?"
Beth: "It made me realize I am human and vulnerable. It was time to think about changing what I could to become as healthy as possible. "
Sister Survivors: "What did you learn during your cancer journey?"
Beth: "Oh….. I am still learning every day. "
Sister Survivors: "What have you changed as a result of your cancer diagnosis?"
Beth: "I try not to sweat the small stuff and I DON’T WEAR A BRA ANYMORE!!"
Sister Survivors: "Do you have a favorite book or quote or song that became meaningful to you during your cancer journey?"
Beth: "My T-shirt from “So Much More” that says across the chest - “Of course they are fake, the real ones tried to kill me.”
Sister Survivors: "What advice would you give to a woman who is newly diagnosed with breast cancer?"
Beth: "Research everything only on reputable websites and get many opinions from doctors and other cancer survivors."
Sister Survivors: "What advice would you give to friends and family of a newly diagnosed breast cancer patient?"
Beth: "They need to hear you say that everything is going to be alright, but be careful not to minimize their fear and what is happening to them."
Sister Survivors: "Finish this sentence… “I am a…”
Beth: "WOMAN… hear me roar!"
