The Mission of the Smith Mountain Lake Cancer Support Foundation is to provide compassionate support by honoring the strength of warriors and survivors through education, community involvement, and charitable contributions. My Breast Cancer
Journey By Vicki Brooks
Warrior: Someone actively fighting their cancer—receiving treatment such as chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, or medication. While per
forming a self-examination, I discovered two lumps. After meeting with my gynecologist and undergoing an ultrasound, my worst fears were confirmed. On January 5, 2022, I received the life-changing news: I had breast cancer. That day was filled with emotional phone calls, one by one, to each of my family members. So many tears—unbelievable tears. After the last call, I turned to my husband, brushed my hands together, and declared, “NOW I’M GOING TO FIGHT THIS!”I was diagnosed with HER2 Negative, Stage 1, Grade 1 breast cancer—a typically treatable diagnosis. From that point forward, there were numerous doctor’s appointments, multiple tests, and regular trips between my home at Smith Mountain Lake and Richmond. Thankfully, all test results were positive, indicating surgery and radiation would be necessary but—amazingly—NO CHEMOTHERAPY!
Can you imagine my relief when I heard those words? No chemo! Still, my oncology surgeon reminded me, “As good as these test results have been, surgery will tell us the real story.”
On February 8, 2022, I underwent a successful double mastectomy. However, a week into my six-week recovery, the pathology report revealed seven positive lymph nodes. This meant my diagnosis shifted from Stage 1 to Stage 3, and chemotherapy would now be required.
On March 31, 2022, I began my first chemotherapy treatment, which continued for 5½ months. Then, on September 12, 2022, I had the privilege of ringing the bell, marking the end of chemo! That was followed by 5 weeks of radiation, which I completed on November 22, 2022. One year later, on November 9, 2023, I underwent reconstruction surgery. My journey continues with monthly oncologist appointments and having recently been enrolled in a new drug study. I am expected to remain on medication for the next 5 to 10 years. This is an ongoing journey that I fight every day.
“You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.” – Bob Marley. Please show your support of The Smith Mountain Lake Cancer Society Foundation by visiting www.SMLCSF.org today!
