Author: Kimberly Hawkins
Who knew my first mammogram would be so memorable? Yes, that’s right. My first mammogram is how I found out I have stage 2 breast cancer. On August 31st, these horrible words were said to me by Dr. Cuntz…IT IS CANCER.
I broke down and tried to focus while listening to my treatment plan…still trying to comprehend that I now have breast cancer. I was given so much information in that moment that I knew I would have to read the breast cancer binder in the next few days so I didn’t overload my brain.
Later that night, I prayed to God, “I don’t know the reason, but I thank you in advance. I know you’re putting me on this journey for a reason I can’t see yet. Please guide and guide me on this journey and let me hear the plan my doctors have for me. And when this is all over, I’ll have a testimony to share.”
From that day, I started sharing with my close friends and family about my new journey. The next three weeks involved more doctor visits, tests, labs, and even more information about my trip. Three weeks later, I experienced my first round of chemotherapy.
However, if you really knew my story, you’d know that this isn’t the first time I’ve faced a life-changing decision… only this time I’m on edge. You see, ten years ago, I made the decision to donate my kidney to my dad. But that’s another story.
Obsession with a healthy lifestyle
As someone who works out and eats healthy, finding out I have breast cancer was a shock to me. But I didn’t let breast cancer stop me from exercising and it helped me through my breast cancer side effects. My exercise routine includes boxing, cardio, weights, and yoga, and I’ve been able to maintain this style of training with some adjustments. On days when I’m too weak to exercise, I walk outside just to get some fresh air or sit outside for a while.
Sharing my journey
As I shared my new journey with close friends and family, everyone’s reaction was the same… shock. I can say that I am grateful to have the best support circle to support me. I have best friends who call and text me everyday to check on me. On October 1, 2020, I shared my breast cancer journey on Facebook and Instagram. It took a few days before many people realized that my post was talking about myself. As I have shared my journey with more people, many have reached out to me for support, gifts, calls and more.
Social media has allowed me to share my breast cancer journey with others as well as meet pink sisters who are fighting this journey with me or who are survivors. I hope my story and posts inspire others going through this journey and show them that you can still have a normal life as a breast cancer patient.
Diagnosis during the pandemic
Being diagnosed with breast cancer during the pandemic put me in a different perspective. Being a social person, I still try to have a sense of normalcy as long as I have the energy. I’ve always lived each day to the fullest, but more so now.
I have always loved spending time with family and friends, but more so now. Doing little things like making my bed or going to the grocery store takes so much energy. I was listening to my body. When I start to feel tired, I lie down and take a nap or just rest my body.
Many of my friends have contacted me for brunch, lunch or dinner. But I am more aware of where I am and my surroundings. When we go out to eat, I wear my mask until it’s time to eat, I choose a restaurant that is less crowded or has outside seating (when it was warmer). When I go to the grocery store, I’ve gone early in the morning when there are fewer shoppers (I still wore my mask).
I wear my mask every time I leave my house or car. I have hand sanitizer and sanitizer wipes in my purse, car, home, and work.
Special Note
To Kim’s Knockout Warriors: Thank you for the outpouring of love and support you have or show me. I am thankful and grateful for all your support and prayers. I am blessed to have you in my life.
Kimberly was treated at Stand for breast and female body cancera partnership between Woman’s Hospital and Mary Bird Perkins – Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Center.
