Tiana

DOB:  20th May, 1968
 
I was first diagnosed in Sept, 2018.  I was 50 years old.  Immediately, I believed that God had allowed this situation so that I could help other women and their families.  Having this faith has really helped me remain positive.  That’s not to say that I haven’t cried.  I have a few times, mainly when I’ve been awaiting results of a scan.  You all know what I’m talking about, right?!!!
 
My initial treatment for my stage 3, grade 3 invasive lobular carcinoma was to have a double mastectomy, axillary clearance, 16 rounds of chemo, 25 rounds of radiation and Hormone Blocking medication for 10 years.  I was on Femara for 9 months, (about 7 months too long!!!), and then Tamoxifen for 4 years. 
 
My oncologist said that the hormone blockers stopped working for me which is why my cancer returned.  It’s in my spine.  My oncologist gave me between 3 and 5 years, but I told him that because I’m highly competitive, and I know a lady that has survived for 7 years so far, that I’m going for at least 10!!!  😊
 
So, I’m now 55.  I have my husband of almost 34 years, and my 2 adult children.  They each have a wonderful partner, and 2 of their own children.  Yep, I’m grandma to 3 girls (3yrs, 3yrs and 1 month) and 1 boy (1 year old).  They are precious indeed, and while I want to hang around for as long as possible so that I can still enjoy wonderful moments with my husband, and continue to make special memories with every family member and my friends, I also have complete peace about God’s will coming to fruition, whatever that looks like.  Peace is a gift, and I’m so thankful that I truly have it!!!
 
Life is good.  Really good!  I enjoy being an active Rotary member, playing mahjong, playing my ukulele and I just LOVE playing board games.  Sometimes Grandma has to play dolls and Barbies, and that’s ok too.  😊