Breast cancer real lives
CHERYL GRANT
Cheryl Grant was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999 at the age of 48. Although she had enjoyed good health until that point, on her GP’s advice Cheryl had yearly mammograms from the age of 40.
Cheryl’s mother and maternal grandmother had died of unknown cancers. Her mother died when Cheryl was still a baby and with her father on the road as a commercial traveller, she and her older sister were sent to live in different homes.
‘At the time of my diagnosis I was feeling fine. I was working full-time, juggling being a wife and mother to two sons, aged eight and 14. Even after I was diagnosed I still felt well.’
ISABELLE SHAPIRO
In July 2008 Isabelle Shapiro’s world changed forever. At 57, her health was excellent, she exercised regularly and had a healthy diet. At a routine screening, however, Isabelle was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer.
Isabelle was Deputy Mayor of Woollahra at the time and facing re-election. She was also a busy wife, mother and grandmother, constantly on the go.
‘I thought I was strong and could handle it, but clearly I couldn’t. I was in shock and completely numb.’