Two months ago, I heard the words fibroadenoma tumor for the very first time.

I’d discovered a lump in my breast at the age of 37. One diagnostic mammogram, one ultrasound and several consultations revealed that the lump I’d found in my left breast back in December was a non-cancerous fibroadenoma tumor. It was the best possible outcome and I breathed a huge sigh of relief. A repeat ultrasound was scheduled six months out to monitor the tumor. I circled the date in my calendar and went about my life.

Until I found yet another lump in my left breast.

As I sat in my doctor’s office yesterday, my stomach turned.

I secretly hoped that she’d tell me I was insane; that I was imagining the development of a new lump. Unfortunately, she confirmed what I already knew – that I had yet another lump in my left breast.

And then she took it a step further and told me that I have fibrocystic breast disease.

A condition affected by hormonal changes, fibrocystic breast disease is fairly common and affects 60% of women. Symptoms include painful, lumpy breast lumps or cysts. Though these cysts are benign (non-cancerous), they make mammograms difficult to interpret and complicate the early detection of breast cancer.

The development of a new lump, coupled with my fibrocystic breast disease diagnosis and the fact that my breasts are dense, means that further testing is required.

And so my breast lump journey continues…

I’ve been referred to a specialist at a nationally accredited breast care center a couple hours away. They’ll be taking a comprehensive look at both breasts to ensure that there is no cancer present. They have everything they need onsite, making the whole process a little easier in terms of tests and procedures, and I’m confident that I’ll receive the best care possible.

I’m staying positive and hoping for the best.

I’m also hoping that you’ll be inspired to perform monthly breast self-exams. Nearly 70% of all breast cancers are found through self-exams. They’re quick, painless and could save your life.

You owe it to yourself, and the people you love, to monitor your breast health!