Elizabeth Bryndza

By Previve on October 12, 2010 | Category: Previvor Stories | 6 Comments

My PREVIVE story is a unique one, and my journey is much different than Claudia’s. I am not BRAC1 or BRAC2 positive, and I have no family history of breast or ovarian cancer. But, during my sophomore year of college, at the age of 19, my life changed completely.

I found a lump in my right breast during a self-exam, and brought it to the attention of my doctor. But I believed that I had nothing to worry about; breast cancer did not run in my family, and I was only a teenager. Even after I was sent for an ultrasound, mammography, and biopsy, I still did not worry as much as my family and friends. I was convinced that the tests and scans were merely a precaution, and I was going to be just fine.

Elizabeth Bryndza

Then on April 29, 2009, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Instead of completing my sophomore year of college with all of my friends, I was taking a trip to Columbia University Medical Center in New York City to see a breast surgeon. When I first heard the word “mastectomy”, I knew that the situation was much worse than I could have ever imagined. The doctor said that since I was so young, he would need to remove my entire right breast, even the nipple, just to be precautious and make sure he removed all of the cancer.

This is where my “previval” story really beings. In the midst of getting tests and scans before my surgery, I made one of the most important decisions of my life. After a breast MRI revealed that the cancer was only located in the tumor in my right breast, I elected to have a bilateral mastectomy anyway, which called for the removal of both my right and left breasts. I thought, why would I take a risk? If doctors found cancer in my right breast at the age of nineteen, what would stop the disease from spreading to my left breast? I didn’t want to relive the moment when my parents told me I had cancer. So I made a choice, and have never looked back.

It was the most difficult decision I have ever had to make, but also one that I have never regretted. While the doctor was removing the tissue in my left breast, he found abnormal cells. They were not yet cancerous, or even pre-cancerous, but eventually down the road he said they would most likely become cancer cells. I would have had to repeat this whole process all over again. I also went through four months of chemotherapy, also as a precaution to make sure there was no cancer left in my body.

Unfortunately, my decision to previve came after my cancer diagnosis. But I survived nonetheless. Now I am 21 years old, cancer free, and healthier than ever. I know that eventually I will be able to put this past me, and hopefully will never have to relive April 29^th ever again. I have become a stronger person because of this experience, and I know that in the future I will be able to overcome any obstacle that stands in my way.

Claudia Gilmore is truly an inspiration, and her message is an extremely important one. Young women need to be aware of their bodies and know that we are not invincible, even though we think this disease is one that only affects our mothers, aunts, and grandmothers. Early detection is so important, especially at such a young age. “Previval” is just as important as survival.

Elizabeth Bryndza

October 11, 2010

6 Responses to “Elizabeth Bryndza”

1. linda rocco

   October 12, 2010 at 5:07 pm

   Liz, as your mom I cannot tell you enough how proud I am of you. Going back to school during treatment, giving presentations in your classes while wearing a wig, things no one your age should have to do. You are on inspiration you all women.

   Reply
2. Karen Duclos

   October 13, 2010 at 11:30 am

   Dear Elizabeth,
   I am so very proud of you. You have, on several occasions now, stepped up and spoken about your experience to help others in their fight against the deadly disease. Keep your spirits high and God Bless.

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3. Rebecca M.

   October 14, 2010 at 12:18 am

   Dear Ms. Elizabeth Bryndza
   Optimism is the foundation of courage. You are an amazing woman who is living proof that attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference!

   I am amazed at your strength and I am confident that your experience will hold inspiration to others who need it. On a personal note, though I cried when I read your story, I am reminded to pause and take notice of what is really important in this world. Thank you for sharing your journey!

   Reply
4. Maureen Frio

   October 14, 2010 at 9:32 pm

   Liz-
   Your words are so true. You are such an inspiration! You are so beautiful inside and out and I only wish you wonderful things.
   Much Love
   Maureen

   Reply
5. Janice Martin

   October 18, 2010 at 3:19 pm

   Liz,
   My heart goes out to you. When my daughter was 27 years old, she was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. Our family was devastated. The doctors at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston gave her 3-5 years to live. She was married with two young children, 4 and 8, and had everything to live for. She went through chemo, a bilateral mastectomy, and radiation for a year. She finished all that, celebrated Thanksgiving and Christmas, and then found out the cancer had spread to her lungs. Five months later she died.
   Because of all that happened to Marilyn, I can read your story and be happy for you that the cancer you suffered didn’t go so far. I think that you have made the right decision to have a full and happy life.
   Seven years after we lost Marilyn, I was tested for BRAC. I tested positive. My three sisters also tested positive. In the last year, all four of us have had prophylactic mastectomies and reconstruction. As I was being wheeled into surgery for my mastectomy, I remember thinking, “This is the worst thing that can happen to a woman.” Well, I am here today to tell you that it wasn’t the worst thing. In fact, I consider it a blessing, because most likely my sisters and I will not have to hear those words that my daughter heard. Those words, “you have cancer and you won’t live to see your children grow up”, are the worst thing that can happen to a woman.
   Today, my sisters and I are healed and have beautiful reconstructed breasts. We all agree that we feel wonderful, and the best thing about it is that we look great and have less than a 2% chance of getting breast cancer. Some of us even got tummy tucks built into the deal!
   You are an inspiration to me! I know if my daughter had been given the opportunity, that she would have gladly had the mastectomy and been able to enjoy a long and productive life.
   Love and hugs,
   Janice

   Reply
6. Bill Mallek

   August 14, 2011 at 4:04 am

   Hey…Its BJ..I have been trying to get a hold of you….But i dont have your number or email. I just wanted to wish you the best of luck in England. You are a strong, amazing person who has a tremendous future. I know we haven’t spoke in a while…..so I thought I would try and reach out. I am not sure if you will even get this….but if you do, just know i am thinking of you. Good luck..and be safe. Beejay…..

   Reply