Community Corner

Breast Cancer Survivor, Melissa Burns

Nearby Cumming resident, Melissa Burns, shares her story of survival, courage and awareness. Share your own with Roswell Patch!

My name is Melissa Burns. 

I am 37 and I will be a six year survivor in December. 

I was living in Connecticut, had a two-year-old daughter and was pregnant with my second daughter when I found a lump in my right breast.

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After an ultrasound and a core needle biopsy it was determined that I had Stage II breast cancer.

Suddenly my joy of being pregnant was overshadowed by a very dark cloud of fear and uncertainty. I was recommended to start treatment immediately and was told that the mastectomy and the first four rounds of chemotherapy would be safe for my unborn daughter. They were right, Kaylie was born six weeks early so that I could continue with the second chemo cocktail for four more rounds. My proof that the chemo hadn't passed through the placenta was when I saw her full head of black hair while I was the bald one.

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I continued with my treatment and after became an advocate and founder of a networking group for young women. For four years my life was consumed by breast cancer and helping others get through it because this was my way of healing.

Last year we moved to Forsyth County and it was difficult at first because my new oncologist didn't roll out the pink carpet for me and I didn't have my survivor sisters to depend on as I approached my five year anniversary.

As I approach my sixth year, breast cancer no longer defines me and the fear of it returning is dwindling. I will never forget the experience because my body is now a road map of scars that remind me every day. But my spunky 5-year-old is also a reminder. A reminder of miracles and guardian angels because without her I would probably not have detected the cancer until it was too late. I was 32 and not due for my first mammogram for eight years.

If I can impart any advice to other women it would be know your body and trust your instincts.

Knowledge is power and can truly save your life. 

- Melissa Burns

Hear more about Melissa's story and her survivor sisters here.

About this column: October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and we want to recognize those who have battled the disease. Share your stories of survival and courage with our community. E-mail Roswell Patch editor, Christine Foster, with your pictures and stories and we'll post them throughout the month.


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