Anne Duggan, Team Member
2 year survivor.
Diagnosed: 2008. Age: 52.
Dying is Inevitable, LIVING Life is a Choice!
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer mid 2008, I secretly believed it was the beginning of the “end”. Especially as I had witnessed my sister’s suffering and eventual death four years after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
But now I know it is actually the start of a new beginning with true meaning……what a gift! I love life and live it to the full. I’m a lucky and privileged breast cancer survivor. Lucky, because I have friends who made me aware of how important it is to get checked out for breast cancer and cajoled me into going for a mammogram. Privileged, because my cancer was diagnosed at a stage which placed me in a very positive position to beat the disease - a privilege which my sister did not have.
I had a bi-lateral mastectomy and a few months later a total hysterectomy. I cannot deny that this was a tough time and my body took tremendous strain. But, I took charge, recovered as fast as I could and found motivation for moving forward in a positive way – the Journey of Hope.
I needed a challenge – something different. Heard about the Journey and it sounded perfect. I took lessons, got my licence (within a month) and two weeks later bought a motorbike – much to the horror of family and friends! “This must be certain death” were their thoughts – I just know it. But they’ve realized this is actually part of LIVING and GIVING.
What a fantastic opportunity and privilege to begin a personal journey of sharing my story and using it to motivate women in all walks of life by creating the awareness that breast cancer need not be a killer if you take charge and act.
Thank you to Journey of Hope for giving me this unique opportunity.
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