Carolyn Emmons Is Recovering After Surviving a Double Mastectomy


    By Sandra Bratschi

    Carolyn Emmons made the difficult decision to undergo a double mastectomy to decrease the possibility of her breast cancer recurring, but the choice was one she wrestled with.

    WickedLocal.com reports that the stay-at-home mother was unsure of what would be best for her, but with the support of her family and friends, and with recommendations from her physician, she knew that she had to do whatever would help her cope with her diagnosis.

    Emmons went for her yearly mammogram, that is recommended for women over the age of 40, and had never demonstrated any risk factors that may have hinted at the possibility of developing breast cancer. But after her mammogram detected two small tumors, she underwent a biopsy and was diagnosed with stage one breast cancer.

    She decided to seek a second opinion, and worked with Dr Dirk Iglehart at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and underwent further testing. Her diagnosis was changed from invasive breast cancer to non-invasive ductile carcinoma in situ. Her doctor recommended having her right breast removed, but she felt that having a double mastectomy would help reduce the risk of the cancer returning.

    Emmons underwent the procedure in August, and has been recovering, but still has moments where she has trouble coping with her newly altered body. She credits the support of her family and friends with helping through such a difficult time, many of whom brought food and sent cards following her surgery. She will undergo breast reconstruction surgery in the spring

    "I just don't take anything for granted anymore," she told the news source. "It makes you appreciate everything - your family, your friends, life itself."

    According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), more than 50,000 women will be diagnosed with carcinoma in situ, which is one of the earliest forms of breast cancer.

    The ACS provides detailed information regarding the different treatment options available for women who are diagnosed with the disease. Because the illness can be diagnosed in different stages, women are encouraged to explore all treatment options with their physician to determine which is best for their particular situation.

    Sandra Bratschi is a writer for The Survivors Club and is dedicated to helping people in crisis survive and thrive.

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    By Demulen Monday, January 3, 2011