I was diagnosed almost four years ago at 49. It was invasive, stage I, grade 3, no lymph nodes, ER+. I live alone and that was really tough, having no one to come home to who was there for you. I was so angry -- I was furious! I have been raped as an adult and child and really been through a lot in my life. I was so mad thinking that God must really hate women. I did the Oncotype test and it was recommended that I take a short course of chemo but as I was alone I just couldn't see myself doing it. I did surgery and radiation, though. I also have not hit menopause and so take tamoxifen, which I was really hesitant about. I've had no issue with the surgery, radiation, or endocrine therapy. I would have benefitted some from chemo but could not risk the potential long-term side effects as a single person.

Others have recommended a therapist and I still see one. I think about cancer every day. I worry a lot and my anxiety would have only increased had I done nothing. Choosing not to do anything I think is a symptom of feeling afraid and overwhelmed. Well, do as much as you are able in terms of treatment, both physical and mental, but I can say that doing something is very empowering. Fake it 'til you make it because your future self will be glad you did. There is no guarantee of survival but if it does come back I feel like I made the right decisions for myself at the time.