Still Standing

by Gaynell
(San Antonio, TX)

My story is one that has changed my life forever, not only did I experience a change in life, but my faith was also restored.
God never ceases to amaze me, just when I thought he had forgotten about me and turned his back on me, he brought me to a place where I had to put my whole trust and faith in him.
In February 2009, I was diagnosed with breast cancer (ductal carcinoma in situ) which meant that it was early stage and possibly contained to one area of the breast.

Needless to say those were three words I never thought I would ever hear in my life. My immediate reaction was utter shock and then fear. "I am only 51 years old, what will I tell my two children? How will they take this news? Will I still be around to see and to hold my grandbabies? Am I going to die?" Those were the questions that gripped my mind.

After biopsies and MRI results, the doctors determined that I would have to have a mastectomy, the cancer was more widespread than they initially thought. On April 16, 2009 I had surgery to remove and reconstruct my right breast. During the procedure seven of my right axillary lymph nodes were removed. My surgeon told me that if my lymph nodes were positive, I would require chemotherapy.

Two weeks after the surgery I went to my surgeons office for my post-op and he gave me the results of my pathology test. All seven of my lymph nodes tested were negative for cancer. I did not need chemo, PRAISE GOD. Words cannot express how relieved I was to hear those words. My only form of cancer therapy is small pill everyday for the next five years.

I am so blessed, and thankful for my life and I never take a single day for granted. I am so inspired by Jeremiah 29:11. For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.