In 2019, I felt a lump but ignored it. As the lump grew, I began to get more concerned, but decided to tell myself, it was nothing. I didn't want to believe it was more than that. I told my husband about it and it said that it's just a muscle, so of course, I went with that. After all, who wants to think about Cancer? In June of 2020, I went to my OB/GYN doctor for a regular exam and my doctor felt the lump and referred me for a mammogram.
In July of 2020, I went for my mammogram appointment in which became the first step into changing my life. They told me if I got a call, there were something more to look into and if everything was good, I would receive a letter. Imagine my surprise when I got a call. I was in shock mode and I remember telling the person on the other end of the call that No, I'm supposed to get a letter. I didn't want the call back. Then something was said that disturbed my peace. She said, "Mrs. Greene, you are allowed to bring someone with you for your appointment." In the years, I have been to the doctor, even while pregnant, no one ever encouraged me to bring someone with me, so why now in the middle of the pandemic, that it was okay.
My husband and I went back to see my doctor for results and learned that I had 2 forms of Stage 2 Cancer that were both 2 cm (Ductal Carcinoma and Lobular Carcinoma). I asked God, "What's the lesson in this? What is it that I need to learn or go tell? Over a 2-week period, I spent 22 hours going back and forth to doctors, 4 different scans, etc. all this within four weeks in the middle of a pandemic. After finding out that I had Stage IV Metastatic Breast Cancer because it had spread to the bones, I began to go on a roller coaster ride, I was up, down, and confused in not knowing how the story would end. All I knew is that I had to put my trust in God. I was provided with a great oncology doctor.
I had been a supporter of Breast Cancer Research for over 20 years when I learned that my friend had Breast Cancer, but somehow when you begin your personal journey, it's hard to give to yourself what you have given others. As I began my process to the road to survivor, I had to stand on my favorite scriptures: Proverbs 3:5-6 " Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will direct your path." I had to hold on the word of God and in doing so, God held my hand and with Him, I was blessed to establish I Care w/You Breast Cancer Awareness Organization. My husband, children, immediate family, and my family at New Harvest Ministry have been very supportive and the gratitude that I have is beyond measures.
The process has not been easy, there were so many different things to learn, steps to take, doctor appointments, scans, treatments, chemotherapy, strengths and weakness, body changing, and seems like so many more things, but I've learned the best way to make it through is Faith, Knowledge, Love, and Support.
When God first spoke to me to establish I Care w/ You Breast Cancer Awareness Organization; with so many breast cancer organizations out there, i was hesitant but obedient. In creating the logo for I Care w/ You, I placed the yellow heart in the center of the pink ribbon. When I looked closer at it, I realize that it was God that was saying "I Care with you" Today, I share my story with others to let them know, "You're not alone." You have support because this journey should not be taken alone. Her Fight is My Fight! We are SHEROS, but instead of wearing a cape, we POWER up each other through Faith, Knowledge, Love, Hope and Support.
Be strong, be encouraged, and include in your story, "I Am Beautiful Me." My Story, My Journey, My Pink. I will share my story to inspire, encourage, and help other women.
Throughout my journey, I have witnessed and experienced firsthand the difficulties, frustrations, and challenges with breast cancer and the effect it can have. What helped me through this process was my faith in God, love of family and friends, and all the support. My hope is to help others in their journey.
