I felt it. A hard lump in my left breast that hadn’t been there a few months before.
I’d had a breast scare in 2011 after a mammogram and ultrasound found a mass. After a needle biopsy, it was diagnosed benign and I began annual checkups. In 2016, my first clear, benign cyst appeared in the other breast… and time moved on.
But now, I could feel more than one and what I felt was firm and a bit uncomfortable. This was different.
A month later, I was at Dekalb Medical Center for a 3d mammogram and ultrasound. I was able to clearly see ALL SIX cysts that had developed in the one year since the first one was diagnosed just fourteen months before. And, sure enough, what I felt was correct. Two of the cysts were large and cloudy/grainy on the ultrasound screen. I knew it wasn’t good even before the technician began typing cryptic notes on the screen highlighting my new fibrocystic breast.
So I was prepared when the doctor reviewed my screening and indicated a need to schedule a biopsy of the two fibrous cysts. But I had just completed the self-healing process of my torn achilles tendon a month earlier, and I knew I could self-heal this too.
First, I called my friends and aunt who had recently been through the full breast cancer process. Armed with knowledge about the process, I began researching breast healthy foods and what to avoid. That very day I fasted, and the next day I only consumed green food smoothies. From flaxseed to edamame, Brussel sprouts to broccoli, I increased my intake of healthy foods and eliminated sugars and starches. I improved the intensity of my exercise and added days per week to the routine. During my daily meditation, I focused on creating healing energy and sent loving messages to my breasts throughout every day. I stayed positive, going about my daily activities like nothing had changed in my world.
On July 6, three weeks after the ultrasound and 3d mammogram, I went back to Dekalb Medical, prepared for the needle biopsy, but in very good and high spirits. As the technician began the ultrasound to pinpoint the area for the needle stick, I noticed the cysts looked different on the screen. I thought it was just my unpracticed eye not detecting the correct cysts. But a few minutes later, the technician excused herself, and came back with the surgeon. They conferred for a few moments, looking back and forth between screens with my June 16 film and the current July 6 scan.
Finally, the surgeon removed her gloves and spoke. “Well, whatever you’re doing, keep doing it. These cysts have decreased in size and are completely clear. I’m cancelling the biopsy, and we’ll see you in six months for a follow up.”
It took a few moments for me to fully comprehend what she was saying. She was confirming that my self healing practices had made a difference to my fibrous cysts in only three weeks! I was full of a gratitude and appreciation that was beyond being thankful for the cancelled biopsy. It was an acceptance of the healing gift and power I’ve always known I had. We all have it, but in the societal norm of pills, prescriptions, and surgeries, we forget our ability to heal ourselves. I truly believe I heal myself by managing my thoughts, the energy I allow around and in me, my food intake, and my daily activity.
Three of my former yoga students and clients are nurses in the Dekalb Medical breast cancer unit. They, along with my husband, were with me every step. I am grateful to the universe for blessing me with love, support and guidance from them and all that sent constant blessings and prayers to me.
Don’t be scared to get checked out. Early detection is the best way to prevent worst-case scenarios.
