A Career in Empathy
My intention for all is Love, Light and Courage
My relationship with breast cancer has encompassed many years of my life. I joined this journey at the age of 21 as a radiologic technologist. If I am very honest, I had no idea what that really meant, or how much my career would impact my life. We all know the statics for breast cancer diagnosis, but as a mammographer, I experience it every day. As a daughter, I have experienced my mom’s journey, starting on Black Friday 2010 at St Vincent’s Breast Center.
CAREER
I have gained so much knowledge and wisdom from my career path, and have grown leaps and bounds. Starting out as a timid kid, trying to reassure women that I was capable of doing a mammogram was challenging enough, let alone that I could understand how they felt. What I did understand, was what it felt like to have someone close to me going through cancer treatments. My brother, at the age of 20, was diagnosed with leukemia and left this world 5 days after his 21st birthday. I watched my family go through some of the hardest things that I have experienced, and at the same time, some of the most cherished times.
I was able to work in many modalities within radiology, but mammography has been where I have spent most of my time. In 2017 I changed my career path and accepted a position in a breast center in Portland. It seemed like a simple concept, but to my surprise, I felt like that kid 30 years earlier. At the beginning, I did not understand why it was so different from other positions that I held. What I am realizing, is that I really began to empathize with the different journeys my patients experienced. I think I met this with some resistance. I was feeling exhausted, confused, frustrated and questioning everything. I was able to step back and realize that many of the experiences that my patients shared exhibited the same emotions. I appreciate all that is shared with me, as there is a new lesson to be learned from each experience. I am incredibly grateful for everything my patients are willing to share, and I just hope that I am able to reciprocate positive feelings of gratitude and compassion for them.
MOM’S DIAGNOSIS
As we gathered after Thanksgiving dinner, we were talking about the plans we had for Friday. Some were planning their shopping trips, others working or spending time with their families. Mom was quiet, and I remember asking what her plans were. She said she had a mammogram and ultrasound scheduled at St. Vincent’s. I offered to go with her, but she was declining my offer. I asked if she would let me go, knowing it would make me feel better.
I met my parents Friday morning feeling blessed to be there, but a bit unsettled. Following the mammogram and ultrasound, the nurse navigator wanted to meet with us. This is defiantly one of the times in my life that knowledge from my career was beneficial but scary. I was already planning my course of action with how our discussion was going to go, knowing that a biopsy would be recommended. I knew that the shock was setting in with my parents, as the nurse navigator was explaining the results and recommendations made, and I asked if it would be possible to schedule the biopsy for mom possibly that same day. The staff was amazing and gave mom incredible care.
She had her double mastectomy a few days after Christmas and began the healing process. I found out how incredibly strong and determined my mom is. She was amazing through it all, even when she reluctantly faced the recommendation and treatment of chemotherapy following her surgery.
Life continued for all of us, to the point that we kind of set mom's cancer diagnosis to the side. Not because we stopped, caring, but mom seemed to be cured and all was well. In our conversations, I could tell she was struggling internally. I offered different things, but nothing seemed to be the right thing. I finally told her that I was sorry that I did not know how to help her with the personal part of her journey, but I knew someone who could. Being strong, independent, and a bit stubborn, she claimed she was fine. It was hard for me to watch her struggle knowing she was not “fine”. I love my mom and I recognized her pain, but I did not have the knowledge or tools to help her. After many attempts, I had convinced her to answer a phone call from my friend Deb Hart!
DEB HART
Deb and I have crossed paths many times over the years. I knew she could relate to mom’s pain, and I asked for her help. Of course, she enthusiastically agreed to talk to mom. I set the stage and once mom was receptive, contacted Deb and let her know mom was ready for her call, but she would be reluctant. In addition to the breast cancer diagnosis, mom and Deb shared the loss of their sons. This connection was a life changer for mom, and I am eternally grateful for Deb and all she has done for my family, and countless others. Mom went to a Pink Sistas Day Retreat and then joined me as a volunteer at the last golf tournament at Skamania Lodge, and loved it!
REIKI
I have learned a new way to view everything this life has to offer. It is amazing what a change in perception can do. I currently choose to live and take care of myself. This was a foreign concept to me; as there is always someone who needs something, and I can help. One day I realized that someone in need, was myself. Internally, I was lost, sad, and depleted. I knew I needed something, but again I did not know what that was. I am a problem solver and it was discouraging that I could not figure out what it was that I needed.
After work one Tuesday, I decided to go walk around at the Farmers Market. I chatted with a few vendors and enjoyed people watching. I was drawn to a table with crystals, tinctures, and herbs and a wonderful woman that made me think of my mom. She was interested in how I was feeling and listened to what I was saying. Reiki came up in our conversation and she asked if I would like to leave my email to be contacted about upcoming classes. Over the last year, I have experienced energy healing, Reiki sessions, mediation, and several other alternative healing methods. I approached it all with an open mind and for the first time, I feel amazing and alive! I am a Reiki 1,2 practitioner and love the new community I am involved in. The benefits of healing the soul and the inner spirit have brought me to a different level. I embrace these practices and not only observe the healing of others; I am experiencing this healing myself. My Past is History, My Future is a Mystery, and My Present is a Gift that I am eternally grateful for.
Looking at my present, I see myself sharing my new gifts with others. Reiki energy respects free will and if allowed promotes healing by activating the relaxation response helping the body balance itself on a deep level. My experiences have been life-changing by reducing my stress and worry allowing more relaxation, healing, peace, and joy! I will share my contact information if you have an interest as I continue my journey for those diagnosed with breast cancer and looking for an additional healing method.
My intention for all is Love, Light and Courage
lkw66@live.com