I came across this amazing timeline that shows the various steps one must take to navigate medical care after detecting early stage breast cancer. While all cancers, and their various stages, come with their own timeline, the sheer amount of time it takes from start to finish is absolutely astonishing.
Take me for example. For my timeline there on the right, I've estimated about 203 days of total initial treatment (not counting ongoing infusions of Herceptin and Perjeta for one year and oral Tamoxifen for 5-10 years), give or take a few weeks. Time from detection/diagnosis would actually be 249 days. Do you know what can happen in 249 days? Well, I thought I'd have a long list for you but all that comes up is early pregnancy and baby milestones, so... I'll spare you those details.
Truthfully, it feels like a lifetime. Especially having to be away from work and all the people that fill my cup. While I'm usually the one bringing the energy to others, the rallying around me and meeting me where I am is amazing. I leave visits with others more energized than when I arrived and that is fulfilling.
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