Survivor Diary: Andrea Bandelli

I was diagnosed on...
"October 15, 2010. I had just walked into my office when the radiologist called me to give me the biopsy results."

My immediate reaction was...
"That my life was over, and there were still so many things I hadn't done yet—like getting married and having children. Over time, I came to realize how lucky I was to get diagnosed when I did."

Now breast cancer means to me...
"A life change."

I'd tell someone with breast cancer...
"To find strength and comfort in others, and yourself. The connections I made with fellow patients helped me realize how courageous and positive I could be, too."

I'm inspired by...
"Goodness and kindness."

I'm most proud of...
"Staying positive. I didn't know I had this in me and have even surprised loved ones with my attitude."

The thing that keeps me strong is...
"Truly believing that I am going to be okay. It allows me to take care of myself everyday."

I get stressed out by...
"Only the big stuff—like staying healthy, having children, and getting married. The little things just don’t bother me like they used to."

I unwind by...
"Talking to my friends, playing with my nieces and nephew, and watching mindless television."

I first felt comfortable in my own skin...
"Right after I got diagnosed. It gave me a clear picture of my priorities and put things into perspective."

If I were to stand in the middle of the street and scream something, it would be...
"Please cancer, never come back!"

Breast cancer is...
"A bitch! It is scary, life changing, and all consuming. It's also a full-time job."