Name- Eileen
Age- 47
Occupation – Sales, commercial real estate services- Fidelity National Title Insurance Co and Fulltime single Mom
Children one 19 yr old son Ryan
When were you diagnosed? 2007
How was it found? Annual mammogram which led to ultrasound and MRI by Dr. Ellen Shaw DeParedes who is magnificent! I had a lumpectomy, chemo and radiation.
Do you have a family history of breast cancer? My immediate family doesn’t have a history of breast cancer however cancer has been in the family. My sister Colleen died at 41 from lung cancer, my Dad had skin cancer later in life and my 1st cousin died of breast cancer, but in the 70’s when treatment was limited.
As a woman what gives you your strength? My strength comes from a strong family background in which I was taught my faith and family will see you through. “What doesn’t kill you will make you a stronger person”!
As a survivor I find strength in being a mentor to other breast cancer survivors…it’s a sisterhood that really empowers each of us, it’s hard to explain, it’s just an overwhelming sense of strength and understanding. I have met very, special lifetime ‘sistas” by doing so and it’s a sistahood I’m proud to be a part of!
Briefly state in your own words something about yourself that you want people to know. I try to live each day to its fullest, enjoying my family and friends. When I was faced with the ugly word “malignant”, and reminded of mortality, I focus on the positive and continue doing whatever it takes to continue living a fun, health lifestyle and enjoying time with my son Ryan, my love Warren Heath, family and friends who have been so supportive ~ Carpe Diem!
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