Shanequa Branch

Survivor

Shanequa’s Journey

I was diagnosed with Stage 2 invasive carcinoma with lymph node involvement. back in Nov 2019 at the age of 43. I would do my monthly exams like clock work, because I have had fibroids since my 20s. I went and got my yearly 3D mammograms on time. I had just had a mammogram in Jan 2019, and it had come back clear. That Oct 2019, I felt a lump on my right breast. I knew something was not right. I waited a month to go in, I had another mammogram and ultrasound. The mammogram still came back negative (because of dense breast tissue), but the biopsy came back positive for cancer. During the exam that my oncologist gave me, she found that the lymph nodes were swollen, and was positive for the same type of cancer. I live in Houston, with just my son and I. No immediate family near me. My only pray was that I was able to work and take care of my son through this ordeal. I was grateful to have already retired from the military back in 2017. I did not want his life turned upside down, more than what it already was going to be. The process of chemotherapy, radiation, 2 different chemo pills, and 3 surgeries later; I am in remission. I was able to work the whole time during COVID and going through this set back. I also received 2 promotions while going through this. God was true to his word and took care of both my son and I. He was even able to maintain a 3.9 and play basketball through this. I would not change this experience. I am able to help and comfort so many of my friends and associates that are going through breast cancer now, and have gone through it. If I had not been doing my self exams; I probably would not be here today. I hope this helps someone hearing my story; and give them strength to make it through whatever obstacle is thrown their way.