Category breast cancer

Squeezing in a quick post before the norco kicks in to report that everything went as planned, I’m home again, in hella pain, and Mike is the dearest man in the land. Also, I’m stuffed into compression garments and wraps…

Can’t sleep, which for once works in my favor: no liquids allowed after 4 a.m. Until then it’s clear liquids only, including coffee if you take it straight up. Which I do. Might stay overnight at the hospital. Might not.…

Just because I haven’t posted recently doesn’t mean things haven’t been simmering. Trying to maintain normalcy (exercise, work, dates with husband and friends)—but feeling pretty far from normal, to be honest. Surgery is scheduled for September 19th. While I do love…

Went back to work this week. It was…scary and wonderful. Apologies to my kind-hearted colleagues for cringing at every “Welcome back!” hug. Accolades to those who brought in doughnuts, offered to carry my laptop, and understood when I needed to…

Met yesterday with both my surgical and medical oncologists. Word from my surgeon: See you in 6 months. From my medical oncologist: Do no harm. We finally have the final pathology report and the results of the Oncotype DX test, which…

Feeling relieved, anxious, sore, and optimistic over here. Met this week with the radiation oncology team. After a lengthy examination and detailed breakdown of pros and cons, it’s not recommended that I go through radiation treatment. Given the long-term risks…

Three weeks out from surgery and am still pretty sore and numb and generally uncomfortable. And I feel pretty vulnerable out in public. Like, more than the usual sense of panic whilst among people. Gentle hugs and big thanks to…

We’ve had a rough couple of weeks. I’m uncomfortable and sad and pretty useless around the house. Mike went back to work but still has to do everything. And our beloved Lucy the Nurse Cat died on Saturday. Aside from…

Yesterday I had my first post-op check-in with the plastic surgeon. As the last one at the table, he’s in charge of wound care. Dressings came off. Everything looked as expected except for the hive remnants. The burning, muscle spasms,…

Not surprising that a grateful heart is good for one’s psyche. Despite reaching peak misery this week, I’m truly thankful for what and whom I have. Today’s appreciation list: Mike for guarding my solitude and for following doctor’s instructions thoroughly,…