a survivor's story

​by Kristin Teig Torres

"Think positive, lead a normal life, Kick some Cancer Butt…"

These are all mantras I have been saying to myself since December 15, 2009, the day that I had my annual mammogram before going to work. The day that I got a call later in the afternoon saying that something was abnormal, and my doctor’s office was going to schedule a consultation and possible biopsy with a local breast care specialist.

I knew as soon as I hung up the phone that I had cancer. I cried that night as I sat and talked to a friend. I was scared, but I had a peaceful feeling, too. I knew I was going to be okay. I knew what I had to do. Power through the treatment, continue on with my life, and kick some cancer butt!

I am happy to say that I did just that. I continued working full time, continued to stay on top of what my husband and two children (ages 7 and 4) were doing, and continued to study for my graduate degree in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Development at UNI. I traveled to London for 8 days for a work trip, I helped plan for my college alumni association, and I played Marian the librarian in a local production of The Music Man, all while visiting my oncologist once a week for 12 weeks to received the drug, Taxol.

Why didn’t I rest? Why should I?

I was feeling good and was able to keep the schedule I normally would. I saw no reason to stay in bed thinking about my health. I did make sure to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night. I put my health in the hands of my medical team which included a massage therapist and yoga instructor. I made sure I ate well and appreciated positive, supportive comments from my friends and family. I didn’t want negative energy around me and if someone began telling a story of how bad treatment would be, or launched into the death of one of their loved ones, I would turn around and walk away.

I had my last radiation treatment on September 16, 2010. I did fairly well; I didn’t blister until the very end, and though I was tired, I knew this was temporary. My diagnoses and treatment is a chapter in my life that I really didn’t want to write and I certainly wouldn’t want anyone else to experience. It is a chapter that is now closed. I learned a lot about myself and the people who care about me. I learned I can handle anything – I am in control. Maybe I couldn’t control the fact that I had cancer but I could control my attitude towards it.

I kicked some cancer butt with grace and style, if I do say so myself, and it feels good! 

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