Gwen Cohee

Survivor

My name is Gwen and I am a survivor. I was diagnosed in November of 2002. I had breast cancer in both breasts and opted for double mastectomy with reconstruction. I had complications after the initial surgery and during my chemotherapy, which resulted in having to have my tissue expanders removed.

I am in the process now of having the reconstruction part of recovery repeated and hope to have it completed by March. I am on the aromatase inhibitor Arimidex, which I will be taking forfiveyears.

The biggest fear I have had throughout this whole experience was the initial surgery. I was afraid that I wouldn’t wake up from that. After I came out of the anesthesia, I knew that I would be ok. I would be able to survive anything that was thrown at me. I have had a very big life-altering experience from this. I realized that the most important things in my life are God, my family and getting my priorities in proper perspective. Something like this usually does that to a person.

I am now wanting to pursue a different career as a result. I now want to become a nurse so that I can be there for other women and men that may be going through something like this themselves or with a family member. I will understand what they are experiencing and be able to be a support for them.

It doesn’t matter what type of cancer it is. Cancer is cancer, and it still kills or mutilates bodies. But it doesn’t mutilate the soul, heart or mind unless YOU LET IT!!!!