2012 Calendar

After much discussion, we decided that due to the size and number of the lumps (only two – but a quarter of my breast!) a mastectomy would be the best choice.

My journey started during an earlier hospital admission into Yale New Haven hospital of my son. I fell to my knees at his bedside to pray. This prayer was more distinguished and lengthy from the others.

In 1985, after taking a bath, I started to do my usual breast exam and noticed an unusual lump in my left breast. The next day I called the doctor and came in for a breast exam and mammogram.

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2000. The shock that immediatelyengulfed my body numbed my thoughts. The doctor’s prognosis was met withdenial and rejection.

In October, I went for my regular mammogram; I knew that this was my yearly examination. However, Ireceived a second notice in the mail to make an appointment to have a repeat mammogram.

I was encouraged by my manager at work to go ahead and go on vacation. So we went and enjoyed the trip. But… the fun was lessened, knowing I would return home and shortly have surgery.

My journey started In April 2006. I went for my annual mammogram check-up and learnedthat I had breast cancer.

Another year went by. The lump was bigger now; it’s hurting; I can’t sleep at night; I was taking over the-counter medicine for the pain, just wanting morning to come soon.

My Name is Tara McNeal At age 34 my life took a major turn when I discovered a lump in my breast. On July 7, 2006, I was diagnosed with breast cancer.

In the year of 1999, I visited my OB/GYN doctor to discuss some nipple discharge I had been having for a couple of months. She scheduled me for an appointment at Yale for a mammogram.