FROM THE DESK OF ELIAN TEIG!

In February of 1991, my world came crashing down. I learned I had a tumor In my right breast. After undergoing a biopsy, I learned the tumor was malignant and I would need a radical mastectomy. At that point, I was forced to reevaluate my life - a new life with cancer. Cancer helped me realize what my breast really meant to me; it was a measure of my femininity and my sexuality. But losing a part of this sexuality did not defeat me; it only made me stronger.

Coming from a family that had been plagued with cancer. I was not surprised with my initial breast cancer diagnosis. I was confused and overwhelmed, but I was not surprised. With the assistance and support of my husband. I was able to expand new horizons, seek new goals, and establish my new life as a breast cancer survivor. This new life, however, was not without complication.

Several years after my initial diagnosis, I was once again diagnosed with cancer, and I was forced to have another radical mastectomy - this time on my, left breast. Since then, my body has recovered, but my mind is still scarred. I will never forget waking from my mastectomy surgeries and feeling the emptiness that overwhelmed my body and my spirit. But I overcame all of this.

My victory against cancer inspired my husband and me to create a guide that would assist breast cancer victims by serving as a reference tool and as a support system. In the American Breast Cancer Guide, you will find a variety of informative articles, breast cancer support groups, physician listings, and personal testimonies. It is hoped that the final product - with my personal experience as the rudder - will help steer cancer victims, their families, and other breast cancer survivors toward recovery, I am thankful that I had the courage and strength to battle and recover from breast cancer. As part of my celebration, I present you with a new, weapon for your arsenal - The American Breast Cancer Guide.

Warmest Regards,
Elian Teig