Metastatic after fighting since 2022

We are facing Stage 3 turned locally advanced aggressive breast cancer with unyielding strength and resistance to many treatments.

History:

In 2022, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. I battled it fiercely with a double mastectomy (breast removal surgery), intense chemo called "red devil," and radiation. 

Though I fought hard, the cancer returned within two years, staying strong against my treatments. We tried surgery and another chemo round (TC this time), but it came back again. We turned to a chemo called Kadcyla and had thoracic surgery (very tricky and not performed often) to remove a sub pectoral and internal mammary node, and it seemed to work for a bit. I was finally considered NED (no evidence of disease).

But now, once more, another lump appeared in armpit again and the internal Mammary node is back. The doctors say it's very aggressive and considering it metastatic (even though it's still locally advanced) The aggressive nature and resistance to all my treatments are not showing a good outlook. They will not surgically removed it but look to keep it at bay for as long as possible. 

Though we hope for more years together, the future feels uncertain. Many treatment options can help slow it down, and we fight on, but the journey is tough.

Why share this? I've learned to focus on what truly matters. Stress might have slowed my healing, and I've paused work to cherish life. Thinking of my loving husband and wonderful daughter left without me is hard. I hope to build a support network to be there for them when I can't.

Asking for help isn't easy for me. While I'm not comfortable asking for money, there are other kinds of support I could really use. I cherish life and want to return home for a joyful gathering with family and friends, celebrating life while I can.

Thank you for understanding,

Amber Rojek