May 13, 2006 12:20 pm US/Eastern
Breast Cancer: Power of Positive Thinking
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
The stories of breast cancer survivors inspire others who are battling the disease.
CBS-3's Mary Stoker Smith introduces us to a woman who is battling breast cancer with the power of positive thinking.
"I felt like I was looking through life in a strobelight."
That was Wendi Pedicone's reaction when doctors told her she had breast cancer nearly two years ago.
The news left Wendi, her husband and four children in shock.
She never thought she'd develop cancer, after all, she says, she had no family history, and no symptoms.
Then one day, she went in for a routine mammogram.
"That particular day I went, the nurse felt the lump, she felt the tumor, and I was day dreaming, 'Who's gonna pick up my little guy from day care, what am I gonna have for dinner?'"
Suddenly, everything changed. Wendi was diagnosed with advanced stage breast cancer.
She says her list of "things to do" shifted from everyday chores to thinking about survival—and getting the word out about something she wishes she'd done - monthly breast exams.
"Getting a mammogram is not enough. Do it yourself, or do a clinical where someone examines you," advises Pedicone.
Wendi began chemotherapy soon after. But physical treatment was just the beginning.
Wendi was also inspired to write a book called "Hanging out with Lab Coats".
She thought the worst was over, but then, the cancer returned. This time it was stage four, the most advanced form of the disease.
Her chances of living up to five years are under 20%, but in Wendi's eyes, those are just numbers.
"That's not my statistic, those statistics are just statistics, they're not for me," she said.
"I thank my cancer," Wendi continued. "I don't regret having been diagnosed. It's put me on this wonderful path, connected me to wonderful people and helped me see the love from family and friends and co-workers, and support."
Doctors say for now, she's not getting any worse, and her positive attitude seems to be helping.
Her diet consists of lots of vegetables, mostly organic, and lean meats. It's that pro-active approach and optimism, that will, no doubt, take this cancer survivor a long, long way.
"I feel like I'm on this terrific new journey, and making the best out of what I've been dealt," explained Pedicone. "It's helped me to see life through new lenses."
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