Rachel was born and raised in Biloxi and moved to Ocean Springs in 2016. Before her breast cancer diagnosis in September of 2022, she did contracting work for individuals and businesses.
MY HEALTH CHALLENGE
In July of 2022, I felt a lump while doing a breast self-exam. At that time, I pushed it to the back of my mind, wishing it away. At 38 years old and as a single mom of three girls, ages 5, 7 and 17, there was absolutely no way I had breast cancer. I didn’t have time for it.
At the end of August that year, I had to face the facts and made an appointment with my OB-GYN. She pushed my worries aside, saying cancer doesn’t hurt. I didn’t leave until the mammogram was ordered — and that test led to the discovery of not one, but two, masses. Both were cancerous.
MY TREATMENT
A double mastectomy was determined to be the best route; the cancer already had spread to my lymph nodes. I did several rounds of what is known as “red devil” infusions — so potent that the nurse had to wear layers of gloves, a gown and a mask and put a pad under the syringe so it didn’t get on her or me but went straight into my bloodstream
I underwent this treatment, along with Taxol, radiation, a total hysterectomy and multiple other surgeries, all before I was 40.
MY APPROACH
It’s true when they say your outlook matters; I was going to get through this test. I had three sets of little eyes staring up at me, watching how I handled this challenge. I leaned on my faith, trusting God to get us through.
WHAT LIFE IS LIKE NOW
It’s been a taxing three years for sure. Chemo doesn’t stop affecting you when they stop injecting it. The impacts are long lasting, some even for a lifetime. My hands randomly go numb, and I have chemo brain (very forgetful).
I’d be lying if i said we are on top of the world. Cancer is expensive. It takes away from work, piles on bills and causes fear — and the treatment is a pain I wish no one ever had to feel. I’m so thankful for my family, church family, friends, and, most importantly, God.
Because of nerve damage, I live in daily pain. I must make sure I don’t overdo anything. A busy day can almost land me in bed for days, but being a mom doesn’t stop. My girls have been my motivation throughout this whole race. I will continue to push forward and try to give them the best I have. This has made me appreciate them so much more; they are the true warriors. Their strength through it all has been beautiful.
MY ADVICE TO OTHERS
Please do your checks; whether it be self-exams or testing. Cancer can spread quickly. Be your own advocate when your health is involved. If I’d have listened to “cancer doesn’t usually hurt, you’re probably fine,” the outcome may have not been the same.