Survivor Story: She Knew She Had to Be Vigilant

Survivor: Roya Main

At age 32, Roya Main wasn't expecting a breast cancer diagnosis. In March 2010, she was a stay-at-home mom with a 3-year-old and 15-month old. She was a busy taking care of her family, so when she found an unusual texture in her right breast she thought it had to do with breast feeding. The fact that her mother was a survivor meant she was vigilant, so Roya made the critical decision to see her doctor and make sure everything was okay. Thankfully, her doctor sent her for further testing. After several weeks of tests, biopsies and ultrasounds, Roya was diagnosed with breast cancer that had also spread to her lymph nodes.

It's been less than a year since Roya completed all of her treatment, which included chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. Roya sees herself as a survivor and recently finished what she hopes is her last reconstruction surgery. Roya has a new appreciation for life and health but says, "The surprising thing is that my life really hasn't changed very much since I completed my cancer treatment. Cancer is not something that defines me or my life and since having completed my treatment, it is not something that I think about on a daily basis."

Roya attributes her strength to the support of her family, friends, and experiences with her mother's cancer. She began walking in the Komen Race for the Cure in 1998 when her mother was diagnosed. "I have always felt that cancer research is a worthwhile cause because it is a disease that has affected so many lives," Roya says. In May 2011 Roya felt fortunate to participate in the Komen Race as a survivor, and contributions from family and friends put her among the top 100 event fundraisers.

From the moment Roya Main was diagnose she felt she received good care and wonderful support. She knows having helped her mother gave her valuable experience that eased her own treatment. "I knew I had to be extra vigilant about breast cancer because my mom is also a survivor." Roya's story of survival began by her paying attention to her body and following through with doctors. "I choose not to dwell on my cancer experience, but every woman needs to take care of themselves."