I remember when I first moved to Maui, Jack and I were inside of Safeway grocery store, we saw this lady who was wearing a Mana’olana Pink Paddler t-shirt. Jack started a conversation with her letting her know that we had just moved here and that I was a mammographer . She invited me to paddle, as this is for supporters of Breast Cancer not just for survivors.
It is strange how the universe works. Here we are just over two years later, and I am a survivor!!! Last year I was looking into taking part of this annual voyage, however that ambition was cut short with my diagnosis of Stage 3 Breast Cancer last year in August.
My first chemo therapy was September 25th, exactly one year ago. I did it!!!! I managed to get thru the 6 treatments, recovered. Followed by surgery, recovered. Followed by Radiation Therapy, recovered! On September 2, I had my last of 12 Herceptin infusions. I am kicking butt!!! All of this would not have possible without the love of my husband, kids, cousins (very special and dear to my heart)! I can’t say enough about all the amazing people I have met here on Maui…..much mahalo for the love and support.
The voyage? I will have to admit I was reluctant to sign up! After all this is traveling from one island to another and back. I have been paddling on Saturdays (cause I work M-F), lots of people here that I paddle with are retired, or have jobs that allow them to paddle out during the week. The more I thought about, the more the challenge excited me! I called the Pacific Cancer Foundation, talked to the director and she encouraged me, telling me that I could do it!
The Voyage to Lana’i is not a race, I know that it will be physically challenging, but this past year hast been challenging, if I could survive Stage 3 Breast Cancer treatment, then I can do this, I am up for the challenge. And being placed on a team with the Pink Paddlers is just going to make this journey across the ocean extra special . The picture above was taken in 2014, when paddled with them how ironic is that!
I plan on blogging about my experience, I know it will be emotional and bittersweet for me. It will be my way of saying “nice try cancer” “I won”. The following is a link to my page for donations……please only donate if you are able, any amount is appreciated.
http://paddleforlife2016.myevent.com/participant/389253
This week I go see my Radiation Oncologist. A three month follow up appointment. Also I already have my next appointments set for my follow up with my Medical Oncologist. My next trip to Oahu will be a two night stay.
January 11th: CT scan of the chest and abdomen. And a Bone Scan
January 12th: follow up with Breast Surgeon Dr. Mari Nakashizuka/ in regards to the prophylactic mastectomy and my first consultation with Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Vincent Nip (yes Nip!)
January 13th: follow up with Medical Oncologist; he will go over the results of the scans with me. Just need to pray that no new cancer decided to pop anywhere, and that the lung lesion has not grown!!
Mahalo, for reading my blog…have a wonderful work week!….Pina
My Breast Cancer Journey 