Who Knew? Managing Privacy in Your Social Circle

After multiple scans, biopsies, lumpectomies, and a diagnosis of an early-stage breast cancer, I asked the doctor in charge of my breasts at the time, “Why me?” To which she responded, “I don’t know, Rosie, you just have shitty breasts.” Nice answer, and the impetus to change practices!

The following month as I was preparing to begin radiation treatment, I received a call from the …

Responding to Questions and Comments About Breast Cancer

Your own head is spinning with a breast cancer diagnosis and you have doctors to see, procedures to endure, and decisions to make about your treatment. You may have worries about how you’ll manage your family, your career, and all the responsibilities of your life. You need to find ways to tell your family, your loved ones, possibly children, and close friends. The last thing …

Goal!! Telling My 10-Year-Old About My Diagnosis

The stunning victory by the US Women’s Soccer team reminded me of my 11-year-old daughter’s last game of the 2015 spring season. Julie had two assists, contributing to her team’s 6-1 win and ending an otherwise abysmal season (2-5-1) on a high note. The Leprechauns (so named for their bright green jerseys) finally gelled, celebrating their triumph with a Carli Lloyd-inspired group hug.

Julie played …

After Active Treatment Ends: When People Stop Asking

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, my family and friends rallied to support me. They expressed love and concern, and offered their help. I was grateful for the many ways they showed they cared: they cooked meals, drove me to appointments, and even introduced me to other breast cancer survivors. But soon after my active treatment ended, those same friends and relatives seemed curiously …