That was until the bubbly and vivacious Melton woman was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, most commonly referred to at breast cancer, in March last year.
“I was 59, a wife, a mother and blessed with seven grandchildren,” she said.
“I noticed a lump in my left breast in February 2012 and my first thought was that I had a blocked duct and that it would probably clear up by itself.
“It really did not even cross my mind that it could be cancer. I had an appointment to see my doctor for my two year check-up in March so if it was still there, I would mention it then.”
After visiting her doctor, Chrissy was then referred to her local breast clinic for a mammogram and ultrasound.
“Nothing could have prepared me for the reality of my doctor telling me that I had breast cancer,” Chrissy said.
“It was so overwhelming; I fell apart and drove home in a flood of tears. I was still a mess when my husband came home from work but he was very supportive and I managed to compose myself in order to explain the situation to my daughter and her family.
“Everyone seemed to be holding me together but there was one more person I had to tell. It was my son in South Africa and he was celebrating his 34th birthday.
“I didn’t want to spoil it but my daughter said he had a right to know.”
In the weeks following her diagnosis, Chrissy said a range of emotions followed, including self-pity, anger and the ‘why me’ phase but she was determined to fight the illness.
“Tony and I had taken two years to plan a seven week holiday in June 2012, driving to Cape York and back and I was not going to miss it,” she said.
“Six weeks of radiotherapy had been mentioned, which would finish before going away so that would work out fine.”
Chrissy underwent breast conserving surgery on April 20 and was informed that she had a 25mm, Grade Three, Invasive Ductal Carcinoma removed plus five lymph nodes.
That was followed by six cycles of chemotherapy at three week intervals, and then six weeks of radiotherapy which meant the holiday had to be postponed.
“I was so mad that this disease had taken over my life and I had no control but I was determined not to let it get the better of me,” Chrissy said.
“I started my chemotherapy in May and my husband and daughter took turns driving me in and staying by my side.
“I was sick and sometimes I would crawl out of bed and then cry when I was just feeling better again and I was due to go for my next cycle.
I felt terrible that my daughter had to see me go through this and to have the knowledge that she could also become a victim to this terrible disease, causing her fear and stress.
For Chrissy, the year 2012 provided her with some of her worst and some of her most uplifting memories.
Last month, Chrissy took part in the 2013 BreastWest Fashion Parade at Moonee Valley Race Club, along with 11 other breast cancer survivors.
“I have met many people who have given me a shoulder to cry on and lifted my spirits in my darkest hours,” she said.
“I still have the odd day where I feel emotional and terrified, but mostly I feel strong, a woman who can do anything.
“I would like to thank everyone who has been there through my journey and has given me their support.
“What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”