Meet Cynthia Greene

Diagnosis: 2010 Ductal carcinoma in situ, nuclear grade 2, non-invasive carcinoma

Treatment: Left breast lumpectomy, radiation therapy, chemoprevention, Tamoxifen

Currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer? Yes

Did you have a regular exercise regimen before joining ROW? Yes

When did you join ROW? April 2011

Thoughts from Cynthia: “My cancer was discovered following my yearly mammogram. I was diagnosed with DCIS, ductal carcinoma in situ. I had a lumpectomy on the left breast and a needle biopsy on the right breast. I never felt a lump or had any of the noted symptoms you are to look for. I was sure the doctor had the wrong patient.

I was (and still am) very health conscious, hitting the gym five days a week. My thoughts were: I don’t smoke and I am not overweight. Once I got over the shock, I called the doctors and told them, ‘Let’s get this ordeal kicked into high gear.’

I had no idea the results would be in my favor. The doctors said ‘Stage 0.’ Two weeks after surgery, I started 33 rounds of radiation. When my doctors suggested hormonal therapy of Tamoxifen, for a five-year period, I immediately agreed to their opinions.

During a seminar for breast cancer survivors, I read an article about ROW. I wanted to build upper body strength, enjoy the camaraderie of other women, and be able to talk about this whole ordeal when I needed to. Yes, my husband was and still is my SUPPORT ROCK, but I just felt the need to be with other women.

I’m on the novice team and I get yelled at every week for doing something dumb. But, I come back every week with the outlook and excitement of getting better at rowing, supporting the team, and enjoying my life. GO ROW!”