I viewed breast cancer as a distant threat until it became a reality. For me, cancer wasn’t just something to prevent—early detection became a life-saving decision. When I first heard the word “cancer” associated with my diagnosis, it felt like the earth had shifted beneath me. However, because of early detection, what could have been a devastating journey was transformed into one of resilience, strength, and gratitude.
I had always considered myself proactive about my health, regularly attending checkups and taking care of myself. But, I ran across your website while I was training for the London Marathon this year and noticed that I was feeling more fatigued My training runs felt more grueling, recovery took longer, and I finished the marathon well below my expected pace. I thought of your three tenets—Know Your Great, the 2-Week Rule, and Share with Your Doctor. My training was below my potential despite my best efforts. I was not feeling my great for longer than 2 weeks, so I made an appointment with my physician.
I never expected that a seemingly routine visit for a physical, some blood work, and a mammogram would reveal something that could potentially alter the course of my life, but in hindsight, it was that early intervention that saved me.
The moment I received the diagnosis, I was overwhelmed with fear, uncertainty, and doubt. What followed was a whirlwind of consultations, additional screenings, and treatment plans. But throughout this process, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for having caught the cancer at an early stage. Because of that, my treatment options were going to be more effective, less invasive, and my prognosis was significantly better than if I had waited or ignored the warning signs. I don’t even want to imagine where I’d be if I had delayed screening—or worse, ignored the subtle changes in my body.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women, but early detection through self-exams, mammograms, and regular checkups offers hope. DetecTogether’s message of also paying attention to your body and acting on subtle changes is an extremely important one. It is a message I hold close to my heart because I am living proof that early detection is not just about finding cancer—it’s about finding it early enough to have a fighting chance. The emotional toll has not been easy, but it has been life-affirming, reminding me of the preciousness of time, health, and the value of taking charge of one’s well-being.
Today, I’m looking forward to training for the next marathon and feel compelled to speak out about the importance of early detection, advocating for others to take proactive steps. Whether it’s scheduling that next mammogram or noting changes in your body, early detection can be the difference between life and death. I’m living proof of that. I’ll continue to share my story not just for awareness, but to offer hope to those facing similar fears. Early detection didn’t just save my life—it gave me a future. And for that, I’ll always be grateful.
Symptoms
- Fatigue
- Training and recovery not as expected
