triple negative breast cancer

I was Diagnosed with TNBC the Same Day I Delivered My Baby

While my husband and I walked into the Labor and Delivery unit, my phone rang. On the other end of the line was my surgeon. He said, “Maria, it’s cancer.” I didn’t think about anything until my daughter was born. It was all about her at that moment in time. 

triple negative breast cancer

At 37 weeks pregnant I felt a lump in my breast while I was in the shower. Not sure where it came from, I decided to schedule a visit with my OB. She said it was probably just a clogged milk duct but to be sure, she felt it was best to have an ultrasound. I was told I’d have to wait until I was 39 weeks pregnant to do so. 

I had the ultrasound on a Tuesday morning. November 6th, 2019, to be exact. I didn’t feel too nervous having the procedure but in the back of my mind I knew something wasn’t right. I was just hoping that things would end up differently. During the procedure I had to wait for the radiologist to see the images. He immediately suggested I have a biopsy and said, ” I would be surprised if this was not cancer.” Later that day, the biopsy revealed a mass on my right breast. And the fear started to sink in.

I was scheduled to be induced to deliver my daughter the following day and had to focus on what was in front of me.  

triple negative breast cancer

On November 8th, 2019, I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer—the same day that I delivered my baby.

Being a new mom is tough. A newborn requires all of your attention so imagine receiving chemotherapy while doing so. I have to manage feedings and fatigue at the same time. Sometimes my side effects even keep me from holding a bottle because we all know, neuropathy can be a beast sometimes! 

But no matter how I am feeling, no matter how strong the side effects are at that moment, I tell myself, “THIS TOO SHALL PASS!” I have to stay strong and maintain a positive attitude and energy. I do not want to transfer negative behavior or vibes to my kids. Attitudes are contagious and these are the most important learning moments for my newborn.

triple negative breast cancer

I must admit, my husband and I are closer now than we have ever been. We recently moved into a new home (a few weeks ago to be exact), so I am able to start over in a fresh space. My biggest challenges I have faced since being diagnosed is staying off the internet searching my diagnosis and prognosis. Do not do this! 

I have also learned that although I am not grateful for cancer, I am actually grateful for what cancer has taught me. This entire process has taught me to love harder, breathe deeper, laugh louder, and above all else, have faith. Things will work out.

Being diagnosed with cancer with a newborn has been a blessing in disguise. If it were not for being pregnant, I would not have found this lump. My baby saved my life. I know if I can stay strong for my baby, everything will fall into place. – Maria Borneman 


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