Rebuilding Amy

As most of you know, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer in June 2018 found in  my first mammogram.   After being diagnosed, I found out that I am also a carrier of a pathogenic BRCA2 mutation meaning I am at increased risk for breast cancer recurrence, as well as ovarian and pancreatic cancer, as well as melanoma.  

Since diagnosis, I've had three surgeries, 28 radiation treatments and nearly 5 months of chemotherapy which landed me in the hospital. Through it all, I laughed and told my story openly and in a way that hopefully educated others.  I started with the joke  about Bruce, the tiny tumor who needed evicted. Soon I found my writing was helping others in ways I hadn't expected. This year alone, I've reached double digits with the number of friends and family who have reached out to ask about their own mammography and cancer scares. What I learned is talking about it helps. 

Speaking of help, many people asked what they could do for me and I told them I'd let them know when I knew.  Financially, I'm fortunate to have an understanding job with reasonable insurance in a state that provides partial disability payment.  Diagnosis made a huge ding in my bank accounts, but not as badly as it hurts others. That said, my income was significantly reduced while I was out and the cost of cancer co-pays and surgery ate away at my savings.

I'm generally too proud to ask for help, but several people previously volunteered. "What do you need. I can help financially."  I now know what I need... I've finished most of my treatments aside from a couple more surgeries later this year, but  I'm really not 'done' with cancer. 

I met a personal trainer today and realized that I'm a weak blob. Not only was there not a push-up, there wasn't even a fraction of a push-up.  I  don't feel the fitness level, endurance or happiness that I felt before cancer diagnosis. I'd like to get back in shape, and that's why I've set up this gofundme.  I'm looking for financial support to cover some training sessions to help REBUILD AMY.  I need to do this to recover, but feel guilty with the costs (see eroding savings above). 

I wasn't sure what a good goal was, but even a small bit will get me started. Anything left over will go towards upcoming co-pays for ongoing medical visits and my surgeries at the end of the year. For those who have offered help in the past and are still able to help, thank you!  Even if you aren't able to help financially, your cheerleading and emotional support is appreciated. 

Thank you.

Amy