Breast Cancer Awareness- Kristin
1. First, we'd love to learn more about you. Please share your name, age, and, if you're comfortable, your date of diagnosis and remission.
Kristin Mageros, 41 April 27, 2015 February 1, 2016
2. At what stage were you initially diagnosed? Did your diagnosis change, and if so, how did it evolve?
Stage2. I had to undergo chemotherapy prior to the removal of my tumor. I was pregnant at the time of my diagnosis and my doctors chose to not put me under anesthesia and dove right into chemotherapy. My pathology was completed after I gave birth.
3. How was the cancer initially detected? For example, through a breast self-exam (BSE), a clinical breast exam (CBE), or an annual mammogram?
My tumor was very close to the surface of the skin so with a self-examination it was easily detected.
4. Is there a history of breast cancer in your family?
At the time of my diagnosis, I was the first in my family. My aunt was diagnosed a few years after me.
5. Could you share more about your treatment process?
I started chemotherapy right away which was the standard 4 round of Adriamycin and Cytoxin and 16 rounds of Taxol. Luckily, I did not require radiation. I had a bilateral mastectomy and bilateral oopharectomy shortly after chemotherapy ended which is when my tumor always removed and graded. Being that I was 32 when diagnosed, my oncologist prescribed exemastane for the next 10 years and reclast infusions to ensure good bone health.
6. Were you offered any programs or services to assist with the treatment process?
There were an abundance of support/therapy groups, yoga and meditation classes offered by the hospital and oncology office. They even offered tutorials to help with makeup and wig styling.
7. Could you please share a challenging part of your journey and describe what was helpful in overcoming it?
Now this is a tough question. I was 21 weeks pregnant with our second daughter when I was diagnosed. All of my focus and strength went to keeping her safe. There were so many unknowns going into chemotherapy while pregnant, but I put my trust in my doctors. With every infusion I would fight off the effects of the Benadryl to ensure I felt her moving in my belly. It was a constant worry, and I was the only person that could protect her. I'm happy to say she came into this world with a head full of hair and a smile on her little face.
8. What are some of your favorite tips or resources you'd like to share with other breast cancer survivors or patients?
Take advantage of any help offered to you whether you are currently battling or have already beat cancer. Continue to do what makes you happy and surround yourself with friends and family.
9. What advice would you offer for supporting a loved one who is going through breast cancer?
Keep looking to the future. A cancer diagnosis is terrifying and consuming but there is a light at the end, and you will be amazed how strong you are. Most importantly never let cancer take away love of life and laughter.
10. What advice or message would you offer to women who have not been diagnosed with breast cancer but are considering self-checks and proactive measures for early detection and prevention?
It's never too early for self-examination. Taking one minute in shower can save your life! Always trust you gut; you know your body best.
11. What type of bra would you recommend to breast cancer survivors or current fighters to ensure comfort, support, and overall well-being?
My go to is anything wireless. I had reconstructive surgery after my bilateral mastectomy so I can now wear any bra without having to worry about lift or cleavage thanks to my wonderful surgeon!
12. At Skarlett Blue, we aspire to empower you to feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable in your own skin by creating lingerie that effortlessly blends style, quality, fit and comfort. How does this align with your current journey or stage in life?
Losing your breasts to cancer should not mean you have hide behind plain bras and baggy clothing. Embracing your new curves and feeling confident in your new skin is everything!