My Mom Has Breast Cancer: The Day She Was Diagnosed

Hi Nik,

Well, what a nice surprise -- the son of our infamous PJ Hamel, right here in our community -- a community that, by all means, would not be same without your mom. What you've written here, the touching story you've started to tell, is proof that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

Your mom is one of the most amazing women I know. She has a heart and mind and soul like no other. After reading every single one of her SharePosts over the years, here's one of my favorites -- a testament to how far she's come, how wise she is, and how deeply she gives to others:

The View from Six Years Out

http://www.healthcentral.com/breast-cancer/c/78/20581/view-years

In this post, your mom writes:

"Since [I was diagnosed with cancer], I've felt my life divide in half, like a cookbook falling open at a favorite recipe: Before Cancer, and After Cancer. Before Cancer, I was focused on getting ahead at work; stress meant standing in line at the supermarket. After Cancer, standing in line anywhere became a welcome moment of relaxation and people-watching. And I found my true calling -- helping other women through cancer.

So, this is for all of you women out there experiencing the kick-in-the-gut shock of diagnosis, or currently going through the long slog of treatment, or finding your way through a new and confusing post-treatment world. There IS life after cancer -- lots of life. Never doubt it."

In a strange yet wonderful way, breast cancer was indeed your mom's "calling." And look, now it's yours, too -- through her.

I look forward to reading the rest of your "story" in October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Great to have you with us, Nik. I know your mom is very proud.

Best,

Maria

Thank you Niki from another Mom.  When I told my 3 sons, who were about the age you were at the time, that I had breast cancer none of us new what was about to happen.  The boys were all in high-school and soccer and baseball were top priority after school work.  There had never been much time for them to consider their chauffeur, cook, housekeeper,confident, and head cheerleader's health.  Life did change, as much as they were unprepared to see, they saw.  Mike fainted when he walked into my hospital room after my first surgery.  He was planning to go to medical school, so that really surprised him!  When its "your Mom" everything changes.

It has been 17 years, I recovered, the boys completed college, Mike is a biology teacher (good choice) and we all grew and learned valuable life lessons.  I thank God and my friends for saving me in so many ways, but the love and support of my three sons and the hope for their future inspired me.  Thank you Niki for being the good son to your Mom - it's what we live for.  Taylor Glaze, Killington Vermont

My son was in high school and my daughter was in college when I was diagnosed ten years ago.  Although we've been able to talk about it a little since I've recovered and they've grown up, I'm sure there's much they went through that I don't understand.  Reading your first two pieces has really helped me.  I'm looking forward to the whole series.

Hi, I know what your mom must have felt, I had to tell my son that I had br. cancer when he was 17, he took it matter of factly. Then told me it will be alright because of all the new treatments out there. although I know he was terrified. later we were finally able to cry together, that was in 2006. I pray that everything we'll be okay for your family and mine.

                                                 Donna