Sharon E. Stroman

My name is Sharon E. Stroman and this is my story. I’m proud to say that I’m a breast cancer survivor. I was diagnosed with breast cancer on September 11, 2001. While the world witnessed the worst terrorist attack in United States history, I had my own terrorist attack going on within me. I currently reside in Bridgeport, Connecticut with my wonderful husband of 18 years, Michael, and my 17 year old son, Tyrell. I’m a native New Yorker, but my heart is in Bridgeport. I’m also a 20-year veteran of the United States Army and am anticipating retirement.

I had a suspicious lump for at least nine months prior to my diagnosis and, deep down inside, I knew something was wrong. My doctor kept telling me that I had fibrocystic breast and that I really shouldn’t be concerned. Well, here I sit today – 38 years old and wondering what I did to deserve this. I was diagnosed with Stage 2 Carcinoma. The size of my tumor was four centimeters and my surgeon found another lump, after careful examination.

My surgeon recommended a mastectomy to remove all my breast tissue in order to avoid any future problems. I was devastated. This wasn’t supposed to happen to me. From that day forward, I vowed to be strong and fight because I refused to let this be the last chapter in my book.

In November of 2001, I had a mastectomy. Then, in January 2002, I started four cycles of chemotherapy and a month after that nine weeks of radiation. I had the best team of doctors that I could ever ask for. I’ve struggled to make a comeback to somewhat of a normal life. Today I’m living another day due to my family, friends, and doctors and I would like to give thanks for all the care and concern I’ve received. If I had a message to give to everyone out there it would be “early detection and second opinion.”