Survivors
Golden Parsons
Golden Parsons
In February of 2000, after a series of many tests, a tumor was discovered on Golden's right ovary. During surgery, another was found on the left ovary. Both were very large - one the size of a cantaloupe, the other the size of a grapefruit. Both were malignant, but the cancer had not spread to any other organs or into the lymph system. She underwent chemotherapy and five years later was declared cancer-free.
In January of 2007, a small lump was discovered in Golden's right breast. Surgery to remove the malignant lump, and a small benign lump was performed just two weeks later. Chemo was recommended, but she and her husband decided against going through chemo again, and opted for radiation only, followed by herceptin...a new cancer anti-body breakthrough. She will finish up with the once a month intravenous herceptin treatments in June of 2008. She has had virtually no side effects at all from the herceptin, except some fatigue and loss of stamina. Once again, the prognosis is favorable.
Interestingly enough, the two cancers are not at all related. Nor are they genetic. They were two entirely different types of cancer. She attributes the early detection of both episodes to the grace of God.