Life After The Storm

Posted by Ann Nyberg on May 10th, 2008 at 04:58:12 pm , 1745 views

Women under the age of 50 diagnosed with breast cancer. It is life-altering and life-threatening. A support group called "In The Pink" was formed recently by a woman in Guilford who was diagnosed when she was 19-weeks pregnant. Melissa Burns needed and wanted an outlet to talk to other young women about all the things that go along with cancer. She was 32 at the time of her diagnosis. When she learned there wasn't really many outlets for help she started her own group. From 6 women it has grown to nearly 50. Burns is in the process of really getting the word out about the journey such women take by putting together a documentary as well that will be forthcoming. It will be titled "Life After The Storm."

On Mother's Day evening at 10 and 11 p.m. on News Channel 8, you can see my story on this wonderful group of women helping others. It is unfortunate that the group continues to grow, but it has been, and is, a god send for so many. If you would like to know more go to www.lifeafterstorm.com You can reach Melissa Burns on the web site.

[Editor's Note: I've included Ann's story below.]
[video:worldnow:2478437]
[photos courtesy: Ruthanna Terreri Photography]

Filed under Anchor Desk, CT Woman.

7 comments

Comment from: St.N.eno Glenna MacDonald [Visitor]
When more than one persons have a common (problem) and come together,the bond is unbreakable.
When more than one persons come together over any other reason than a problem in common,their union is soon forgotten.
Blessing from way above to all of you.
My Love is with you.
~Peace Glenna~
05/10/08 @ 23:29
Comment from: Barbara Puffer [Visitor] · http://www.komenct.org
I was one of those young women with serious breast cancer ...age 35... it seems eons ago. Twenty-one years ago, they didn't harvest eggs before treatment or discuss fertility before breast cancer treatment. For some of us, there were no babies after breast cancer.

But I lived. Now, 21 years later, I can attest to the strength support networks provide. It's pretty much an entire lifetime I've lived AFTER cancer...My personal growth came primarily through family, friends, and professional support; Bernie Siegel's Exceptional Cancer Patients Groups in New Haven; and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. I hope my longevity brings these brave young women another glimmer of hope...All the best, Melissa, and your new-found friends.
05/13/08 @ 10:13
Comment from: jeff [Visitor] Email
i'm a guy, but i'm very concerned about this issue...

this generaly is a females health issue ( i know breast cancer can happen to men ) but a health care issue none the less...and societies' neglect of such is a barometer of our moral values of our selfs...
05/13/08 @ 20:34
Comment from: Andrea [Visitor]
I lost my mother to breast cancer & it always brings tears to my eyes to think of the people losing their loved ones to this disease. This group is a wonderful thing. It gives people someone to talk to & people to support them.
I am 37 today & I went for a mammogram on Friday. They called me yesterday to come back because of a "dense" area they see. They can not get me in until June 14th. I am freaking out & crying all day just thinking that this might be cancer. I think it is torture to call someone in for a questionable spot & not be able to have them come in within a couple of days. But I am trying to hold it together for my kids & think positive.
05/14/08 @ 08:12
Comment from: Jill [Visitor]
Hi Andrea,
I'm so sorry you are going through this.
It's very scary and frustrating. Please call Melissa, I think she can make you feel better. My thoughts are with you..... Her phone # is on the website www.lifeafterstorm.com
05/14/08 @ 09:04
Comment from: Heather [Visitor]
Andrea--I am a survivor that was shown in this story--I had the same thing happen to me with my initial mammogram. Many times women are called back and it truly is nothing, once the repeat films are done. However, in your situation, like in mine, I called my GYN doctor and told her that due to my family history, I was unwilling to wait. I was VERY firm about it. She found me an appointment for the next day (not in my usual radiology group but quite a few towns away)after I told her I would go anywhere to get it done sooner. In this day and age, we must demand better health care. You can reach me through Melissa Burns if you want to--I'd be happy to help in any way that I can.
05/15/08 @ 17:13
Comment from: Rose [Visitor]
Hello Andrea: I was one of the women featured in this clip. I am sorry to hear about what you're going through. Most young women have "dense" tissue. That is why it can be difficult to diagnose a malignancy in this age group. Dense tissue appears white in a mammo, as does a malignancy. Keep in mind that most turn out benign. That being said, given your family history, you should consider having an U/S, as well as a MRI w/contrast. These diagnostic tests will help your physician in determining your situation. If you ever need to talk to someone, feel free to contact me via the "Life After the Storm" web-site. I wish you well. ~Rose
05/15/08 @ 18:50
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