Living with Aromatase Inhibitors: A Survivor's Journey
Learn Look Locate proudly presents insights from Kelly, a breast cancer survivor of six and a half years, who shares her candid experience with aromatase inhibitors and hormone therapy. Her journey offers valuable perspectives for those navigating similar paths in breast cancer treatment.
Thoughts from Survivor Kelly
“Be an advocate for yourself and your own cancer journey.
Establish a relationship with your medical oncologist. This means having the ability to have open conversations around your options and knowing they will have your back through the tough days. Also, although aromatase inhibitors are available at any pharmacy, my oncology specialty pharmacist was my cheerleader in staying the course. These two professionals are critical in your long-term care through cancer.
Create milestones for yourself and celebrate with a massage or a weekend getaway. But on those bad days, remember it is temporary….you can get through it.” – Kelly, Breast Cancer Survivor
1. Early Detection: Finding the Unexpected
Kelly discovered a lump just three weeks after a clear 3D mammogram. Within 35 days, the tumor grew from 0.5 to 2.5 centimeters, leading to a double mastectomy with direct-to-implant reconstruction.
2. The Power of Self-Advocacy in Treatment
Research and self-education play crucial roles in treatment success. Kelly emphasizes how Learn Look Locate’s expert-backed resources help transform fear into empowerment.
3.Building Trust with Your Medical Team
Getting second opinions proves vital in establishing trust with your oncologist. Kelly shares why this relationship matters throughout your cancer journey and into survivorship.
4. The Tamoxifen Experience
At 47, Kelly tried Tamoxifen first, experiencing side effects including joint pain, weight gain, and mood changes. This led to discussions about alternative options.
5. How Hormone Blockers Work
Kelly explains how Tamoxifen blocks hormone receptors on cancer cells, while aromatase inhibitors work by reducing hormone production in post-menopausal women.
6. Managing Aromatase Inhibitor Side Effects
7. Protecting Bone Health
Anastrozole affected Kelly’s bone density, leading to osteopenia. She chose Zometa infusions to help maintain bone strength.
8. The Benefits of Zometa
9. Finding Balance in Treatment
Kelly discusses taking occasional breaks from anastrozole during vacations, completing five years of treatment plus six months of Tamoxifen.
10. The Power of Mindfulness
Meditation helped Kelly manage treatment challenges. She emphasizes viewing side effects as temporary and celebrating treatment milestones.
11. Emotional Resilience
12. Embracing Your New Normal
About Kelly
Kelly is a six-and-a-half-year breast cancer survivor whose journey includes experience with various hormone therapies. Her candid sharing about managing side effects, making treatment decisions, and maintaining emotional wellbeing offers valuable insights for others on similar paths.
The Learn Look Locate Connection
Through stories like Kelly’s, Learn Look Locate continues its mission of empowering breast cancer patients with real-world experiences and trusted information. Kelly’s journey exemplifies how connecting with others who understand your experience can transform fear into knowledge and isolation into community support.
