I was diagnosed on April 20, 1998 at the age of 50.

Phyllis

When I started having pain and itching in my breast in February, 1998, I never dreamed I might have cancer. I had just had a clear mammogram in December, 1997, and there wasn't any form of lump.

It was early March before I got to the doctor. Another mammo and ultrasound revealed no problems, but by mid-March my skin had turned a ripply, red color, and I was sure I had an infection.

I got the diagnosis of IBC the week of my 50th birthday. I had 8 months of treatment with two kinds of chemo, surgery and radiation.

Then it took about another 8 months to get my energy back after all I'd been through physically and emotionally. Now I'm a little over two years out of treatment and feeling good.

If you or someone you love is facing an IBC diagnosis, remember that people do get well from this disease. Take inventory of your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual resources.

How can family, friends and co-workers support you? How can you calm your soul with meditation, prayer, or other spirtual resources? You will need all of them to get through your treatments.

When I first read about IBC, I was afraid that I wouldn't live to go to my childrens' graduations in 13 months. I made it, and I'm looking forward to the next set of family celebrations.

Please click on the title of the hymn in order to hear the music.

Rock of Ages

Rock of ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide thyself in Thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure,
Save from wrath and make me pure.

Not the labors of my hands,
Can fulfill Thy law's demands;
These for sin could not atone;
Thou must save, Thou alone:
In my hand no price I bring,
Simply to the cross I cling.

While I draw this fleeting breath,
When mine eyes shall close in death,
When I rise to worlds unknown,
And behold Thee on Thy Throne,
Rock of ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide thyself in Thee.