Sabina O’Neill is also an ex Aer Lingus Cabin crew member, however our paths never crossed in the air as Sabina was Shannon based while I was Dublin based. Sabina came across my blog through a mutual friend and has kindly agreed to share her incredibly brave story and some hints and tips based on her experience. I am in awe of her courage, thank you for sharing it with us Sabina!
SABINA’S STORY:
I was first diagnosed with cancer at 16 years of age a rare tumour called “Soft tissue Ewing’s sarcoma”. I had numerous surgeries and 8 months of extremely strong chemotherapy. I went into remission in May of 1991 but unfortunately the cancer came back a year later. I then had more surgery and 6 weeks of radium.
My 3rd cancer diagnosis was in July of 2016 when I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. I had a full mastectomy and full auxiliary clearance. I then went onto have 6 rounds of TC chemotherapy and 25 sessions of radium. My tumour was 1.6 cm with a lot of DCIS throughout the breast and hormone positive her2 negative.
A year later I started bleeding and found out through hormonal blood tests that my E2 was extremely high and that my ovaries would have to be removed. I had an Oopherectomy in April of this year. I am now waiting for my breast reconstruction which is due to take place in September.
HINTS AND TIPS:
- Take all medication when instructed to do so, do not wait for symptoms to present themselves.
- An electric blanket for bone pain especially when taking the NULASTA INJECTIONS.
- If your mind starts to wander to a dark place which it will watch a funny movie or read a book.
- Rest and sleep when you can.
- During chemo eat whatever you can when you can.
- If you choose to wear a wig (which I did for 18 months) buy a good one that will last. Monofilament top with lace front are so realistic that you would never know it was a wig. If you hold a medical card there is a 500 Euro grant for one.
- Put make up on every day because if you look good you will feel good.
- If you go into menopause and are suffering from the dreaded hot flushes there is a drug called effexor which reduces them by 80%.
- Research and have confidence about your decisions regarding your treatment.
- And most of all live for each day and try not to worry. I have beaten this disease 3 times and I am still here.