#YWMBC: Emily

Header Photograph by Cailiegh Langford

Name: Emily Powell
Age: 30
Occupation: Office Assistant
Age when diagnosed with breast cancer: 30
Breast cancer type: Hormone Positive. Her2 Negative
Breast cancer stage: Stage 4 (Metastatic Breast Cancer)
Treatment: Ibrance, Letrozole and Zoladex

Tell us a fun fact about yourself that has nothing to do with cancer.

I love filmmaking and movies. When I was 23, I was invited to sit in the bleachers at “The Academy Awards” after tweeting a photo of myself dressed up as the Oscar statue for Halloween.

What’s your go-to pick-me-up song?

I’m loving the song Levitating by Dua Lipa. It always makes me want to get up and dance.

How did you discover your breast cancer?

I felt my breast and it was denser than the other one. I called my doctor. We were both positive it was likely a cyst or fibroid. After the ultrasound from my GP I was sent to the cancer centre and was shocked to learn I have stage 4 cancer.

What went through your head when you received your diagnosis?

After the shock wore off a little bit, the first thing I thought was “How? How could I have such a late stage cancer at such a young age?” I still think this quite often.

What’s the craziest thing someone said to you after being diagnosed with MBC?

I’m very lucky to have very supportive and understanding friends and family, so nobody has said anything “crazy.” However, I think it takes people a little while to understand that this is something I will have for the rest of my life. It took a while for that information to sink in for me too!

Who is your biggest source of support throughout your experience with cancer?

It’s cliché, but my friends and family. Everyone has been incredible throughout everything that has happened so far and I am extremely grateful.

Photograph by Mackenzie Madeley

What is the most difficult part of being a young woman with MBC?

For me, it’s the decision whether my boyfriend and I should start a family of our own. I battle with this thought daily. With stage 4 cancer, my future is uncertain. However, new and effective treatments are being created and tested all the time, so there is hope.

What’s something unexpected you learned about yourself?

That I am able to cope under extreme stress. I have always battled anxiety, but I never thought I would have to face a life threatening illness. I’m proud of myself for making it so far.

What words of wisdom would you pass on to another young person who has just been diagnosed with MBC?

Find supportive and loving people to lean on as you face what are most likely the toughest moments of your life.

If you or someone you know is a young woman with breast cancer looking for a community that relates and connects with your struggle, the Rethink Young Women’s Network might be right for you. For more information, click here.