I was diagnosed in May 2024 after noticing an abnormal breast mass as well as numbness and pain in my lower body. I am 36, had no family history of breast cancer, and was healthy. I was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer de novo, and a BRCA 2 carrier. I did not know I was a genetic carrier until diagnosis. After my initial appointments I learned that my diagnosis went from treatable breast cancer to stage IV metastatic breast cancer with metastases to my lymph nodes and bones (innumerable to pelvis, spine, ribs, breast bone). I had radiation on my pelvis to help with pain and numbness. Early in my diagnosis I was hospitalized three times for issues with dangerously high calcium, pain and symptom issues with treatment. I had four fractures to my spine and multiple broken ribs. I am on a variety of other medications to deal with symptoms. I was also put into medical menopause, which had caused tremendous issues to my quality of life, from joint pain, hair loss, and more. My cancer is currently stable with no new spread. I have two young children, ages 6 and 3, and I fight every day to be here for them. I am also one of the caretakers to my parents who are both disabled, one with dementia and one from a stroke. I am not able to drive due to medication and work full time, taking medical leave as needed.
Kristin’s LifeList:
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A family trip