SUZANNE
I had just turned 50 and during the year received three letters urging me to get a free mammogram. By the time the third one arrived, I started asking myself how many trees they were going to cut down because I hadn't done it.
So, I had my mammogram. A few days later, a letter arrived saying I needed to have more tests. Then, it was a three day wait to find out what was going on. An hour before my appointment, my GP rang and told me to bring a support person.
My world turned upside down when I was told the devastating news that I had Stage III breast cancer.
There is still one thing that sticks out during the first 24 hours of being told I had advanced breast cancer. I was having a full-body scan when a staff member said: 'Well maybe we'll become best friends after this.'
I was devastated. I didn't want to be her best friend. I didn't want her to say that. If there is one message I would like to impart it is that people really need to be wary of the power of words.
They can be like poison arrows - even if people are well meaning.
After the scan I walked through the local shopping centre, completely numb.
A random lady flashed me a huge smile as she walked past me. A smile that I am alive and I needed to fight. So I did.
I went through chemotherapy, surgery
and radiotherapy. My scars were much smaller and more delicate than I ever imagined. I worked throughout my treatment, but cut down from 76 to 50 hours a week. My wonderful, supportive hubby Len and two teenage sons Harrison and Zachary were my rock. And I also thank my medical team - everyone was amazing.
To the women and men who had breast cancer before me, I say thank you, you have made my journey easier, and to those who are diagnosed after me, let me assure you on the Central Coast you are in wonderful hands.
Suzanne's Motto: "From the start I decided not to read anything negative about my treatment and my motto was each day as the sun rises, so will I and face things as they happen."
