Reached the 2 year mark. A silent moment of reflection.

I reached the 2 year mark.

July 2024 I was diagnosed de novo with MBC, mets to the sternum and femur. ER was only 9%, PR was 99%, HER2 was 0.

I went for 3 different opinions before settling on Dana Farber, for my treatment.

Started my treatment in October 2024 with AC, Taxol, radiation and endocrine therapy. Been on maintenance therapy since March 2025 and NEAD for over 15 months now.

I no longer think so often about this "terminal illness" as I used to during the first 6 months after my diagnosis. I have just found a new balance and learned to live with it.

While it was a shock to receive this diagnosis at then 36 years old, beautiful things came on my path as well. It was not only grapes. Sometimes there were also sweet strawberries on the road.

My energy levels have tanked a bit but not as drastically as when I was in active, aggressive treatment. It's very doable day to day.

I feel like I'm going to be around for some good more years. Something I was afraid to think about when I just got diagnosed.

Never thought I would feel this normal two years in.

Oh and I'm back in school to become a Doctor of Optometry (OD).

Currently enjoying the summer and letting my hubby fix our apartment up, while I'm observing with a cocktail in the background *grin*.

It all gets better. I promise :-)

~Anneleen