For many years, breast cancer survivors have focused their hope on the number five. With the help of their oncologists, they've taken a big sip of this medical Kool aid. But are we hoping in an untruth? This survivor shares her perspective.
BY Bonnie Annis
PUBLISHED June 15, 2018
Bonnie Annis is a breast cancer survivor, diagnosed in 2014 with stage 2b invasive ductal carcinoma with metastasis to the lymph nodes. She is an avid photographer, freelance writer/blogger, wife, mother and grandmother.
Numbers are important. Just ask anyone. If you're lucky enough to win the title of number one, you've just earned the accolades of being the best at something. If you're given the title, number two, you've missed the mark. You were almost number one, but not quite. No one really pays attention to any number ranking past three and they certainly don't focus on someone being fourth or fifth. But the number five has great significance for those who identify with breast cancer, specifically those who have been labeled as breast cancer survivors.
Why is the number five so important in the world of breast cancer? Oncologists refer to this number when speaking of the likelihood of recurrence. Most breast cancers, it's said, will return within five years. So naturally, five becomes a very important number.
No comments:
Post a Comment