Editor:
My heart and prayers go out to Judy Lawler (TC Nov. 17) and all the women out there who are battling breast cancer. I fought my battle this past June.
Though in my late 60s, I find myself fortunate to be the most healthy I’ve ever been. Still, I developed a cancerous breast tumor because of having too much estrogen, a side effect of Hormone Replacement Therapy.
Men, you may think this doesn’t apply to you, but your woman could face these decisions. How you react will have a huge impact on her.
I could have opted for chemo and radiation, but I couldn’t imagine being sick for months, while not knowing if the poisonous treatments would be effective. Chemo comes from derivatives found in Mustard gas. We know what radiation can do.
They both kill cancer cells, but they also kill healthy cells, and compromise our gastrointestinal tract and immune system so that we cannot fight infections.
Non-target cells, tissues and organs also are damaged.
I didn’t want to risk the health that I had worked so hard to attain, so I chose to have a mastectomy.
Because of my decision, I am enjoying my life, here and now. I’m not suffering with the ill effects of chemo or radiation, or wondering what the long-term effects will be.
Fortunately, I retained my good health, and, after a few weeks of recovery, I was able to resume doing all of the things that I love to do. I can take care of myself, and I am there for those who need me.
I could get an implant, or wear a padded bra, or just let myself be how I am — lopsided.
Having less breast does not make you less of a person; it does not diminish your spirit; it does not make you less of a woman. But, if need be, you may have to drastically change what and how you eat, drink and think.
Just say no to pharmaceutical HRT, and chemo/radiation. Less breast is best, for your overall health and happiness.
If you would like to talk, reach me at [email protected].
Kristy Baker
Idyllwild
