By Jennifer Reynolds
Hi, I'm Jennifer. I am a mother of three and have been married for twenty years. We have a great life. I worked as a postpartum/ newborn nursery nurse and lactation consultant for a large hospital for almost twenty years.
For the last few years, I have been self-employed with my own business; I do home visits for new moms and babies as a doula and lactation consultant. My job is very rewarding and I love it.
Lately, I have not been working much. This year was supposed to be a good one after last year not being the best. But unfortunately, it wasn't.
After a routine mammogram, I was called back for more tests. They did ultrasounds, biopsies, scans, and more. I was then diagnosed with breast cancer, left side IDC stage 2b. I had it in my lymph nodes. This was the most shocking news, and I never... ever anticipated THIS. I was very overwhelmed and so was my family. They knew I had to fight.
I was started on chemo after my tests, blood work, and more. My chemo was six rounds, every three weeks. I had a port which did end up being a good thing. I did cold capping which is very expensive, but my family wanted to pay for it to keep as much hair as I could. I am glad I did.
They also found out that I am PALB2 positive which complicates my case. I have no idea how or why I have this. My mom and daughter have since been tested, and they are negative.
So recently, on June 30th, I had a DMX with reconstruction and lymph dissection. Six were found, and they took eight. This has been very difficult. I am emotionally up and down. I have a long road ahead. I have been healing well and have had three fills. I have my radiation MD consult this week. That will be for six weeks. I also have to be on two different meds to help prevent reoccurrence.
I have an amazing family and support. I have a very busy and full life... but what happened to my old life? Everything has changed. I will keep working on getting stronger to fight this and do my best. Some days are really hard, and some are better. I pray and look forward to better, more stress-free days.
Thank you for sharing your story, Jennifer. SBC loves you!
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