Patricia’s Story

My journey through breast cancer began in 2003 when I went to my primary doctor for my annual exam. She asked me a series of questions as she began my check up. After the examination, it was suggested that I get a biopsy.

I had a PPO medical directory with only two oncologists listed under my PPO plan. When I called the first one, his office was closed, so I called the second one and the receptionist answered and I told her that I needed to see the doctor. She said the doctor was not taking any more patients at this time.

My heart rate went up and I began to tell her my story. This is when I believe God stepped in: she listened and said she would work me into his schedule the next week and that I needed to bring my last x-ray from my mammogram. I thanked her for getting me in to see the doctor. God blessed me. The next week I was ready to get this show on the road because I felt God had given me this chance.

When the doctor entered the room I could see he was ready to find out what was going on with me. We greeted each other and he asked me what I needed from him. I explained that I just wanted to know whether or not I had breast cancer. I also explained what I’d been through before I decided to get another opinion. After looking at the mammogram he ordered a biopsy and several hours after that he returned to say that I did have breast cancer. I could see in his face that he did not want to give me that news.

He said, “Let’s get down to business” with moving forward to the next appointment. I left his office thinking how would I share this news with my husband and sons. I prayed that God would continue to guide our family through this journey. I was told that I was in stage 3 breast cancer and would have to have aggressive chemotherapy along with surgery and radiation. November 2004 I was told that I was cancer free. I know that the doctors have a great deal of knowledge but they received it from a mighty God. By His Stripes I was healed.

*Photo: Patricia, pictured with her husband Randy.