By Diana Henry - bio | email | Twitter | Facebook | Blog
OREGON (WKOW)-- More than 4,000 women in Wisconsin will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.
An Oregon woman thinks every month should be Breast Cancer Awareness month. Marilyn Bauer is "Someone You Should Know.'
"At my age, I'm pretty good," Bauer says laughing.
Marilyn Bauer is a very active 65-year-old.
"I have been an avid runner since 1977," said Bauer.
She added biking and swimming in the last few years and has competed in 14 triathlons.
"My whole family is involved in triathlons," said Bauer. "Even my grandchildren. This is their last triathlon. They are 4 and 6."
Bicycle accidents the last two summers has slowed her down some, but they haven't stopped her.
"I knew something was the matter," said Bauer.
Neither has breast cancer.
"I didn't feel a lump until later, but I had some discharge that wasn't normal at all," said Bauer.
Doctors diagnosed Marilyn in 2000.
"I think it took a few months for me to really come to grips with it," said Bauer.
She has no family history of breast cancer.
"One in nine, one in eight women do get breast cancer at some point," said Bauer. "And catching it early, having it diagnosed early saves lives; about 95% of lives.
For five years, Marilyn was on the right road. She had a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. But, then a setback.
"In 2005, I felt something," said Bauer.
Marilyn had not one, but two recurrences. The second in 2008.
"This was a little more extensive," said Bauer. "So, I had quite a bit of surgery, a lot of radiation."
Now, about 18 months later, she's feeling good.
"I think I have a lot to be thankful for," said Bauer. "I'm ready to get out there and keep on doing it."
