Breast Cancer Story: Allyson
Disclaimer: Know Your Lemons deeply values and respects the experiences and stories shared by breast cancer patients. The advice, statements, or facts presented in these narratives may not necessarily align with medical expertise or be universally applicable to every individual’s situation. Breast cancer is a complex and highly individualized medical condition, and while these stories offer valuable insights and emotional support, they should not substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance and decision-making regarding breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and management. Know Your Lemons encourages a collaborative approach between patients, caregivers, and medical professionals to ensure the best possible care and outcomes for those affected by breast cancer.
In honor of World Teacher Day we are offering 10% off all products in our shop to help you educate your community on early detection of breast cancer, and hopefully, like Allyson, save a life.
Allyson is a teacher from Missouri, USA and reached out to us gushing with a passion for early detection because it saved her life. Nearly a 5 year survivor, Allyson has taken the steps to become a Know Your Lemons educator, but has already been teaching her co-workers using Know Your Lemons materials. She has agreed to share her breast cancer story and experience in sharing early detection of breast cancer materials as a way to promote early detection for others. Here are her words…
Allyson’s Breast Cancer Story
I was late getting my first mammogram. I was 43. My gynecologist had been encouraging me to go. I kept putting it off. At one appointment he said,
“Please go get your mammogram.”
For months those words kept popping in my mind. Finally, I made the appointment in June 2019. I was diagnosed with DCIS a week later. I also discovered I have the Chek2 mutation. And oh. My aunt was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer 4 days after me. That made the decision to have a bilateral mastectomy the only option. On July 24, I will be 5 years cancer free!
I am so thankful for my doctor. He kept pushing me to go. Without that I think I would have delayed that first mammogram even longer.
It’s hard for me to comprehend it’s been 5 years. They have been mentally exhausting. However, it does get better. Not easier. Better.
Thank you for all you do to raise awareness!
Sharing Early Detection of Breast Cancer Information with Co-workers
The resources for purchase at Know You Lemons are invaluable! I'm an elementary teacher. Our building has a total of five males. So it's primarily a female audience. For the last two school years I have purchased the posters to place in our staff restrooms. As I was getting ready to do this I asked one of our male teachers if those posters would make him feel uncomfortable. He said,
"No! Early detection is so important!"
I am our health and wellness champion in my building. I share monthly health and wellness information and organize health challenges. At the beginning of each month I include reminders about getting a mammogram and other yearly health screenings.
Also, for the last 4+ years I have shared a Facebook post reminding everyone to do their monthly self breast exam, schedule their mammogram and other yearly health screenings. I also include a reminder to give dogs their monthly flea/tick & heartworm prevention meds. I love dogs. :)
One more thing to share: My friend across the hall from me was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer this year. She had a lumpectomy and just completed radiation. Like me, she was diagnosed after her first mammogram. She is 40 years old. I recently received a thank you note from her. It reads,
"Allyson,
You saved me this year! Not only did you encourage me to get my mammogram, but you have been supporting me every step of the way. Having you as a resource, confidant, and friend has been invaluable. Thank you for being my champion!"
We are so grateful to Allyson and all those who decide to share their story to help inspire change. If this story has inspired you to share your own please visit our share your story page.
