Pam Seay’s words of wisdom rang in my mind well after the interview concluded. She emphasized that family members should be advised of each others’ medical history. In her family, she has two aunts that had breast cancer, but didn’t have much information about their options, choices or outcomes.
“One of the first questions that the doctors ask is if cancer runs in your family,” she stated. Pam wants her family members to be well-prepared. She is now in the process of documenting their family medical history. Since being diagnosed with breast cancer, she’s had the BRCA I and II test plus an additional test that would help inform at that time if she should have chemotherapy. In addition, she has made these tests available for her family. “Knowledge is critical,” Pam said to me.
BRCA I and II tests, are cancer risk and genetic testing which can inform you what the likelihood of ovarian or breast cancer is. It’s recommended to have these tests if cancer runs in your family. The test is able to identify mutations in the BRCA I and II gene which greatly increase the chances of having hereditary ovarian or breast cancer. Sharing and discussing within your family is important.
“I was very fortunate to have ended up with the doctors that I did; I got very, very lucky,” expressed Pam. The clinic has their own wing in the hospital and the nurses have all been trained to take care of these particular surgeries.
Women need to make sure that the facilities in which you are tested have the latest technology. “It’s in our best interest to do that,” she said. “You’ve got to ask about your options and familiarize yourself with those options and seek out the most qualified and highly skilled surgeons. You will deal with your decision forever.”
Pam also advises to take tests and make sure to keep up to date on routine check ups. There’s no reason to put it off, so many of the cancers are able to be treated early on. Pam said firmly, “You have to be proactive and be your own advocate for your health.” Had she asked and known the difference between a screen and diagnostic mammogram; her life could have taken a complete turn. If you know something is wrong, you have to use common sense and get alternative options.
Don’t be intimidated and make sure that your health care professional is properly following procedure. Ensure that your medical professional remains just that. “Make sure they sanitize before they enter your room,” she said. Chemotherapy breaks your body down and it makes you extremely vulnerable to germs and illness. Don’t be afraid to ask!
While her confidence never dwindled, her life in Harlingen is slowly improving and a year later things are slowly returning to normal. When she started the job in Harlingen she thought, “Am I going to be able to do all this? Perform and still be able to go through chemo?” There was a woman who took her under her wing and recognized something in her that needed the extra help. Pam says without her she probably wouldn’t have made it. God always brings people into our lives to help get us through particular times. Pam has always been one to take on challenges. But as independent as she is, she realizes it’s hard to say, “I think I need some help here. Jack LaBarge and Debbie Dugan have been amazing.” It’s important to realize that you are not all alone; there are people who care about each and every one of us.
I hope all of the Dolphin readers are able to greatly benefit from the advice Pam has shared with us. I know since the weeks that have followed our interview, I’ve loyally worn my breast cancer awareness shirt once a week. I hope you have as well! I wanted to share a poem that came to mind when writing this article; it’s always held a special place in my heart. I wish everyone well in the New Year! Till 2012.
Footprints in the Sand
One night a man had a dream. He dreamed He was walking along the beach with the LORD. Across the sky flashed scenes from His life. For each scene He noticed two sets of footprints in the sand. One belonging to Him and the other to the LORD.
When the last scene of His life flashed before Him, he looked back at the footprints in the sand. He noticed that many times along the path of His life there was only one set of footprints. He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times of His life.
This really bothered Him and He questioned the LORD about it. LORD, you said that once I decided to follow you, you’d walk with me all the way. But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life there is only one set of footprints. I don’t understand why when I needed you most you would leave me.
The LORD replied, “My precious, precious child, I Love you and I would never leave you! During your times of trial and suffering when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.”
Carolyn Carty, 1963
Pam with her granddaughter, Ella.
