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Previous Survivor
Stories
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Diane
Funston-Dillon
Harrisburg, PA |
Diane Funston-Dillon was diagnosed with Infiltrating
Ductal Carcinoma in October of 1996 at age 42.
She found the lump through a breast self-exam.
Here is her story.
Q: What was your initial reaction to the
diagnosis?
A: I couldn't think straight, and my thoughts were all about dying. I had no
risk factors! I had a thousand questions, but was afraid to ask even one. I
wanted to disappear or turn back time. Dread and terror consumed my life.
Q: How were you treated?
A: Lumpectomy with axillary node dissection. Later I had a mastectomy, coupled
with the placement of a tissue expander to start the process of reconstruction.
Then came six cycles of chemotherapy, followed by five years of Tamoxifen.
Q: What was the hardest part of this process?
A: Navigating chemotherapy was definitely the hardest part of my journey with
breast cancer. My treatments left me ill and unable to work. I found it unbearable
to deal with the loss of my hair. I felt like I was stranded in a barren
and foreign land where no one else spoke my language.
Q: How did you get yourself out of this
dark time?
A: I kept reminding myself that if my hair was falling out, then the chemo
must be working. My hair indeed grew back, this time a different color, texture,
and it was curly. I tell everyone that this was the most expensive perm I've
ever had! I also joined a support group and found encouragement and empathy
among them.
Q: Describe your recovery process.
A: Recovery is slow and dreary. Sometimes it seems endless. Doctor appointments
will be part of my life for many years. I have gotten on with my life, but
I never forget - not for one day - my experience with cancer.
Q: How has cancer changed you?
A: I know I am a stronger person. I've met some very special people. I appreciate
things I used to take for granted. I am grateful for every birthday and I
surround myself with positive, happy people. I slow down and take time for
quiet gratitude each day.
Q: What have you learned from breast cancer?
A: I learned that I could help another person through diagnosis and treatment.
I've learned to tell everyone of the importance of self breast exams, clinical
exams and mammograms. I believe God gave me this diagnosis for a reason.
I may not understand the reason, but helping another along the way makes
the path easier for both of us. And if someone tells me that they got a mammogram
because of me, then my cancer has served some purpose.
Q: Any advice for newly-diagnosed women?
A: Facing breast cancer involves fear, distress, courage and hope. Armed with
knowledge, a positive attitude and a will to survive, we can prevail, overcome
and even triumph.
Diane serves on the PBCC Board of Directors,
co-facilitates a breast cancer support group,
and works for KePRO, a peer review organization
that protects the rights and health of persons
on Medicare in PA.
To profile someone in "Survivor Spotlight",
email Heather Hibshman at heather@pabreastcancer.org. |