Believe… 
in purpose
Maria Mertzel
My name is Maria Mertzel, and I was diagnosed with breast cancer in November of 2019, at the age of 49. I did not have a history of breast cancer in my family, so it was a shock to have this diagnosis.
I went in for my normal mammogram in May of 2019, and all was clear, however, I felt a lump later that Fall, so my doctor advised me to come in. At that time, I had an ultrasound, and after multiple biopsies, the doctors recommended that I have a mastectomy. Following the surgery, they also recommended four rounds of chemotherapy.
My lymph nodes were clear, so I didn’t need radiation. After the mastectomy, I had three surgeries that following year for reconstruction. Currently, I take a pill each day, which will continue for 5-10 years. The main side effect of ongoing treatment is bone loss.
I’m very grateful at this time to be a survivor. No one ever wants to hear the word cancer, but my close family and friends were my strength and healing support. I feel fortunate to be a light in other people’s journeys. I think it’s important to stay positive in a challenging situation. Each day is a gift, if I can make a difference in the lives of people I touch, I feel purpose.
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