Donna Wentz

I was diagnosed on 9/10/14, the day before my 21st anniversary. I was only 39 years old. Originally, it was thought I would have lumpectomy and some radiation. After finding more tumors in each breast, on 10/30/14, I had a bilateral mastectomy. I started chemo on 12/4/14. I'm currently about to receive my 3rd treatment. I have four total, then weekly I will have a different chemo medicine followed by six months of a shot every three weeks. Yes, I'm bald! My hair started falling out, so we cut it. Well, actually my husband did! (He shaves his head already). Now we look like brother and sister! Its been a long four months and I still have a ways to go. At the end of 2015, I will start a radiation regimen. Then, I will need reconstruction surgery. Just like Joan, I've had good days and bad days. The worst days were being out six weeks after my surgery. I was more than ready to come back to work.....to be with the family that had supported me from the day of diagnosis. My work family formed Team Donna. They raised money for my family since I was out of work for six weeks. They had t-shirts that sparkled "I WEAR PINK FOR MY SISTER". They had shirts for my parents that doned "I WEAR PINK FOR MY DAUGHTER". My boys, ages 19 and 14 had "I WEAR PINK FOR MY MOM". And yes my husband had one for his wife, too. You get the picture! Over 100 shirts were sold. They surprised me one day at work wearing their shirts. I don't know what I would have done without their unwavering support. And they still show it today. They put up a pink Christmas tree last month and said it will stay up until I'm cancer free! I pray that those with a diagnosis of any cancer have support. I couldn't do it without them. I still have quite a road ahead of me, but I can do this. My favorite bible verse is Isiah 41:10 So do not fear, I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous hand. I am thankful for my Lord and Savior. I could go on and on with this story, but there's so much ahead of me that isn't written yet. I'm ready to be a SURVIVOR! I know God has many more years to write for me. With much love to my family and friends, Donna