Until a little over two years ago, I paid very little attention to any news or publicity about breast cancer - the disease and the statistics. It didn't have anything to do with me. I had never been touched by breast cancer, nor had I really come into contact with anyone who had been touched by it, either directly or indirectly. Now I have a personal interest since I met my partner Jo, who is a breast cancer survivor.
I did not know Jo at the time of her diagnosis and treatment (eight years ago). I sometimes think it would have been better to have been around, to have known what it was like for Jo and for a partner at the time of diagnosis and during treatment. I came into Jo's life and truly felt overwhelmed by a sea of pink (Jo is very involved with Dragons Abreast Australia (DAA)). For many, many months the only people I met from Jo's circle of friends were breast cancer survivors.
We would often socialise with large groups of women and I often felt like I did not fit. I was not a 'member of the club'. I didn't want to qualify for membership, but I felt like I did not belong in a group of people that all had something in common (apart from me).
Nevertheless it has been a positive experience. Things have changed significantly for me over time. Because of the people I have met, I have discovered so much about myself and have a very different opinion now on what is important in life. It wasn't a conscious decision, it was a 'shift' that I wasn't even aware of, until one day when I realised that I felt differently about things. I didn't need to know anymore what it was like to have cancer. All that mattered was that I had met, and continue to meet, some amazing and inspirational people who have made a difference to me and my outlook on life. I am very lucky to have a large circle of fun and positive people in my life.
Jo and I participate in a new group for same sex couples, that is, breast cancer survivors and their female partners. I have found it really beneficial to be able to be among other partners who are female, to be able to talk and share experiences, but at the same time, enjoy each other's company and have some fun!
I am very lucky to have met some amazing people, and to have such a wonderful partner who inspires me in so many ways. My experiences have had a significant impact on my attitude towards life, and I know that I am a better person because of those experiences.
--Adrianna
