January Mastectomy

neversurrender

Maura - Good luck tomorrow.  Let us know how you are doing .

Lyn - glad you are feeling better.....one step at a time.

Lola - Good to see you back.  How are you doing?

Kat - nipples similar to the ones from Laura's link sell on Amazon for about $26.  Amazon only has one type, as opposed to the link.  I debated getting a couple styles so I could experiment with look/size before I have mine added.  I must have missed something.....why are you switching PS? 

I am going in to my PS on Tuesday, and will hopefully get the informatin that will help me make my decision regarding lift/no lift.  Thank you for all of your opinions.  Kat, the fat injections don't bother me...both my breasts are tummy fat, so a little more won't hurt

We just returned from a soccer tournament in Cincinatti.  It was so hot and sunny.  It felt wonderful to sit out in the sun and just hang out.  My daughter injured her ankle on Saturday.  We have a dad on our team that is an orthopedic dr.  He examined her this morning and thinks that she may have fractured her ankle.  Tomorrow morning I am taking her into his office to get an xray.  Life is never dull

pbebow

Hello ladies!!  Hope everyone has enjoyed this beautiful day!!!!   We had a Euchre Party last night to raise money for the Relay for Life and raised over $1600.00!!  And we made all of that money and had a great time too!!!  It was really a lot of fun... but a few of my friends (after a few cocktails) started poking my left boob...  it was funny, the one girl went to stick my name tag sticker back on and she was like "Oh my gosh!  that is so hard" and poked it again, so then someone else poked and then it was just a big joke, and of course I had to jump up and down and show them that don't don't bounce and we were all laughing and having fun (it sounds weird now typing it, but it really was funny)  but now this today it is kind of sore!  I think someone was poking too hard!   And I have a mark on it that looks kind of like a hickey (and no, I know for sure that no one gave me a hickey there!), so I don't know what that's about.

Yay for Phil Mickelson winning the Masters!!!   I have always liked him, but now knowing what he and his wife have gone through this year, I was really cheering him on.  Does anyone know what type of BC and treatment his wife went through?  I looked online but couldn't find anything.

Anyway, I am getting very excited about my exchange Friday!!!  Maura,  I'll be you are really excited!!  Tomorrow!!!  Yay!!!  Here's hoping that you have a good surgery and smooth recovery and little pain!!!!

Paula

sunsnow

Lola: You crack me up!!! That's a perfect cover story. Maybe I'll bribe the kids to keep my secret. I live in the area where The Real Housewives of Orange County is shot, so women undergoing plastic surgery shouldn't turn many heads. My kids keep telling me that I'll finally feel like I fit in when I have a chest full of silicone. I'm not from here--from Western Connecticut, so it's like a whole new world to me. 

 Laura: When you talk about your gardens and walking with Smudge, it makes me so homesick. I grew up in a part of CT not all that far from Somers and I miss this time of year there. I have to come back in July to clean out my Dad's house and tour colleges with my daughter. It's so weird to think that he won't be there when I go in the summer. Unfortunately, I just miss the rhododendron, mountain laurel and lilacs, but I want to spend time dead heading his geraniums and weeding the perennial beds. 

Cathy: I had a pelvic ultrasound when I found out my BRCA status, and they were concerned about "something" they saw. It turned out to be a cyst that was hard to see. No atypical cells were found. I know it's hard not to worry, but I'm keeping you in my prayers.

Thanks to all for the good wishes. I'm looking forward to getting through the exchange and moving forward. Paula, I'll try to update as soon as I can to let you know how it goes. I'm thinking good thoughts for your date on Friday.

Thanks again!

Maura 

TNgolfer

Paula,

I know that Phil Mickelson's wife was diagnosed with Breast Cancer last year and so was his mother.  He left the tour to be at her side.  There was not a lot of publicity about her - they kept it private (as it should be).  But when he did return to playing all his hats have the pink ribbon embroidered on them.  I, too, was glad that he won and even more glad that his wife, Amy, was there.  She is on medication (he said) and must be suffering some side effects, as he said she was in bed most of the week, but came out today to celebrate with him.  I am glad for their family.  They said his Mom was there too.

I am especially glad that Tiger didn't win!  I used to be a big fan.....but I can't forgive what he has done to his wife, all the women he cheated with and all women in general.  God must have been watching down on Augusta, as the real man won that tournament.  The real man with compassion and feelings and loyalty to his wife.

Marianne

pbebow

I totally agree Marianne!  Although, I have to say that I lost my taste for Tiger before all of his indiscretions came out...  in my opinion he  is way too full of himself.  And if he can't just be out there enjoying the game whether he's winning or not is not very likeable.  When he started throwing his golf clubs and yelling at the onlookers is when he lost me.  He just pouts all the time and doesn't even usually look happy when he golfs well.  I just don't like him.  I laughed every time he screwed up today!  Anyway, time for bed!

'Night ladies!

Paula

sunsnow

I had trouble falling asleep last night, so rather than stress about surgery, I decided to analyze Phil Mickelson. Here's what I came up with:  I the past, he's had trouble on Sunday when he's had the lead. People have questioned his mental discipline and focus, especially when comparing him to Tiger--just think about last year's US Open compared to the year Tiger won it after his father died. Well, like my husband and I assume many others, having a wife treated for breast cancer is a life changing event. I know my husband has become more focused than I ever thought possible. He's learned to deal with me, help around the house, coordinate our kids' schedules and still run a very stressful practice. Instead of being a stress case, he's prioritized what to worry about and what's out of his control. I know I'm totally projecting, but I imagine Mickelson doing something similar. Look what they've gone through as a family. Rather than worrying as he plays the last round, maybe he's saying "we've been through breast cancer, this can't be any worse and at least I'm in charge of the outcome." His round yesterday with no bogeys was a joy to watch. 

I'm glad I'll be under for a few hours today, so I don't continue rambling...

Maura 

jizogarden

I found another prosthetic nipple site...who knew?  I'm thinking these may even be nice in the decision making process, placement etc.  These are a little more generic and some even have sparkles...too funny! Could you imagine if you put on sparkly ones before your ps appointment....that could sure lighten the mood  One of the things I told my ps was that I didn't want stripper boobs..I am 60 and don't want to look beyond the realm of possibilities Clearly sparkes are not for me  

http://www.myreforma.com/index.php?app=ccp0&ns=display&ref=orderform&sid=237tv06uhr63m63805h13rdo13b6233c

http://en.sevenload.com/videos/WOPCQLE-Prosthetic-Nipples-for-Breast-Cancer-Survivors 

Maura I would love meet you in July when you come to CT.  I could bring some ice tea and help prune the rhododendrons  You will probably have a very full schedule, looking at schools for your daughter and all, but if you find you have a little time let me know

I hope your surgery goes well and your feeling the relief of yippee squishies soon!

Kat....how are you doing?  When do you see your new ps?  It must be so hard to be in limbo.  I hope you new ps puts all your worries at rest and that you and your ps have a new plan that raises your spirits again  My ps is going to do one more small fill this Friday....I can't believe how tight these TE's feel...but he promises it wont make my new insert any larger...just makes     for a more natural "hang" ;o) He won't have to bump my exchange surgery

Two weeks from today I have my exchange  can't wait!

Wishes of strength and healing to all,

Laura 

pbebow

Maura, I agree with you analysis of Phil...  Good job!!!  I imagine that your on your way or at the hospital about now, not sure what time your surgery is scheduled for, but I do hope all goes well!!!  Can't wait to hear your story!!!

Laura, sprakly nipples, love it!!! 

Kat, I guess I must've missed something, I thought that I've read all of the posts, but I don't remember anything about you switching PS's...  what's the story there?  Hope it goes well!  

Better get moving, lots to do today!

Paula

neversurrender

We just returned from the ortho appointment.  DD did indeed break her ankle on Saturday.  She will have to be out of soccer for a while, and she is so upset.  She is ALL about soccer.

Phil Mickelson is a favorite in our house.  We went to the Wednesday practice rounds of the Memorial Tournament for many years.  It was so much fun to talk with these golfers and watch how they interact with the fans.  One golfer, Tiger, never signed autographs for the kids and would not talk with the fans.  He is the only golfer I remember being like that.  Most of them will chat with you and they really have a good time on that last practice day before they have to get down to the serious stuff.  Freddy is one of our all time favorites also, so it was so good to see him finish in the top 10.

I hope you all have a great day.

Maura, can't wait to hear from you !  I hope you are doing well.

Sally

TNgolfer

Maura, I agree with your analysis of Phil, too.  I know cancer has helped me sort out what's important and what isn't and I'm sure it does that for our spouses too!  He was always likeable before; a crowd pleaser and is always kind to little kids on the course making sure he stops to throw them a ball or sign an autograph.  He gets it!

Laura, I like your idea of the sparkly nipples -- could always buy a set for those special occasions.  I think breast cancer has given us a warped sense of humor.  But I think that is a good thing.  After my exchange surgery I am going to Hooter's and buy a t-shirt, too!  We all know that this dreaded experience never had anything to do with "boobs", and I am thankful that we can at least have a little fun worrying about size and nipples.  (Question; if the nipples have sparkles, aren't they really called pasties?)

Kat, I, too, don't remember you mentioning a change in PS.  But I'm sure you did it for a perfectly good reason and I applaud your courage.  I have never been one to just accept what the experts say.  I need to know why and it needs to make sense to me.

Feeling pretty sad today.  My youngest son just left after a week long visit.  All 3 of my children were here for Easter and it was great, but now that they are all gone, it's really feeling quiet here.  Hubby is in NY and that seems like a million miles away right now.

I did go to meet with trainer this morning and had a great workout.  I am getting physically stronger, and exercise helps.  Well, I am going to try and snap out of this funk....or maybe I'll just cry a little longer.  Going golfing tomorrow with one of my good golf buddies and we also have a shopping date of Thursday...

Good luck to all with their surgeries.  You know those of us to follow are anxious to hear what we can expect. 

Prayers always

Marianne

pbebow

Well Maura, I hope that everything went well today.  You're probably too drugged up to post, I hope that's all it is.  I have been thinking about you all day, checking in often to see if you've posted.  Hopefully we'll hear from you tomorrow.  The hospital called me today for my pre-op interview.  Said my surgery should be about 3 hours...  How long was yours Maura and Lynn?

Anyway, my son and his fiance finally booked a place for their wedding and reception so we finally have a firm date!  July 23rd (it's a Friday night wedding), so I am so happy!  Now I get to start planning the rest of my summer (we usually go camping for a week about that same time, so we've been holding off making reservations until we knew when).  I am happy for them too because I honestly didn't think they'd find somewhere to have it.  It will be so wonderful to see them get married and be so happy!

HOpe all are doing well... Kat if you're lurking out there, we're thinking of you!

Paula

KatRNagain92

Not really lurking...just so late checking in then reading all the posts!   I work too damn hard girls...I've got to take it easy.  I'm not going in tomorrow until at least 0830 and you heard it here first! 

I love everyone's analogy on Phil. Sometimes, Karma is there for you and it was great seeing her in action!  Validates things you know?

The nipples are great...it's fun to go nipple shopping...it's so harmless!  I may skip the tattoo entirely and just go with a huge variety of nipples!   Seriously!  I'm really thinking about that.  Thanks for the links Laura

How are you feeling Lynbob?  Hope you're doing well and the pain is a distant memory...Hope you're drainage is down and you can get those pulled very soon!  Remember to be patient with how you look....they say they settle:)

Maura, I hope you are well!  I have been thinking about you today too...Paula..you're like a kid:) and your enthusiasm is contagious too.

I haven't really changed my PS per se'...I'm meeting with one of his partners...the senior partner actually who has a lot of experience with extra skin and can give me a good mastopexy if needed.  I'm filled to a 420 currently, but I believe I can fit 600cc implants in there right now as we speak and they will be fine with maybe minimum work.  I will still be a nice C cup and I do miss filling out my clothes like I used to so I think it will all be good.  I really want my exchange date soon...like first of May.  If I don't get a date on Friday and he advises against this (and I'm going to listen:0) then I'll do what I need to do to get where I need to go. 

Have a great evening everyone.
Kat

robinlbe

I brought home my bumps today,,,,so if I want curves (ever so slight) one day, I can have 'em.  And if I don't feel like messing with 'em, I won't

It did feel nice to try on some of my tops that needed a little filling out and seeing that the "bumps" did the job....they're just about the same size that "I" was....barely an A, and I like that.  I didn't want to go bigger, and suddenly sprout major bombers on my chest.  It wouldnt' look right on me anyway, plus they would just get in the way.  As it was, I was choosing between a size 4 and a size 5 (prosthetics have a weird sizing to them)...the 5's really got in my way...and that would be equivalent to an A.  I can't imagine anything bigger, although the lady at the shop showed me a form like mine in a MUCH bigger size.  I'd bet eight of mine would have fit in it/on it.  Oh my...it weighed 4x as much (if not more!!)  WOW!

Anyway, I'll have to wait until I get my pockets sewn in my old bras before I start wearing the bumps...(I didn't like the bras they had at that store- they were UGLY and weren't comfortable).  I should have been busy sewing in the pockets tonight, but got lazy.....I would have liked to have given my new bumps a trial run tomorrow.....$600 worth of silicone bumps...sigh.

thinking and praying for each of you daily....blessings...robin

neversurrender

Robin - If I am recalling correctly, were you supposed to get results today for genetics test?  You were also going to the survivors appointment, how was that?

robinlbe

Oh, Sally....you are GOOD!!!!  You're right....I did have those appointments today, too....I am BRCA negative.  I kind of guessed I would be, but with so few females in my family (only my mom and her two sisters, literally!!!) and with one of those aunts having BC, the onc. thought I should be tested.  Esp considering my age and the fact I'm pre-menopausal.  But, no mutated gene.  I'm glad, yet disappointed.  Stupid, I know.  I would have liked to have had a "reason", you know???  As to why I got BC...but I'm also glad I don't have to worry about having passed this down to my kids.

As for the survivor's clinic, I met my new oncologist -= she is part of the same group as my other onc., but her purpose is strictly for survivors who are no longer in treatment.  I really liked her.  My armpits are still really bothering me, and she thought they looked a little worrisome too.  She asked me to contact my BS, then reminded me, then INSISTED I do so....so, I called my BS today, and told the office - and when the nurse checked, they did want it to be checked out.  Might just be seroma, but it is so bothersome to me.....feels SO fat, SO tight, SO irritating...the skin is so tight there.  I've never had fat there before, and sleeves are tight there, too.  She (the onc) thought it could still be swelling, or seroma.....but anyway, I go back to my BS tomorrow, instead of waiting until July...

So, that's it.  Not really too much news.  But it took all day long doing it all....ha! 

thanks for asking Sally...you're a wonder to remember....

blessings...robin

neversurrender

I'm glad it all went well.  Yeah to BRCA - !   I know what you mean about having a reason, but so good not to have the fear of passing it on.

I hope everything goes well at the appointment tomorrow.  Are you going to ask him about the tightness in your chest?

sunsnow

Thanks so much for all the good wishes.  I am doing very well.  Surgery was scheduled for 1 and they really didn't get started until 2. It lasted until about 5:30 and I was home just after 7. That included my eyelid surgery and some pretty extensive pocket work on the left side and a bit on the right. It really isn't bad at all. My biggest complaints are the post op nausea, which I always get and the blurry vision from the eyes--still can't believe I did that.  My chest is mildly sore and I've taken tylenol twice since I've been home. My body clock is all screwy, so I'm up at 2:26 in the morning and just ate the most delicious granola bar that was ever made. It was my first food since Sunday night.

 The doctor has me in an underwire bra, then wrapped pretty snugly in an bandage. Think Chinese foot binding of the breast.  He's trying to prevent lefty from heading to Mexico again and righty was going East. I have to wear the bra 24/7 for 2 months. YUCK! I'm going in to see him this morning, so I'm sure I'll learn more then.

Robin: I'm so happy for you that the BRCA was negative.

Sally: You are so right about the fear of passing on the gene. That has been, by far, the works part of this whole journey for me.

Laura: I would love to meet you when I'm in CT. My daughter is doing a camp at Amherst for a week, then my husband and I are going to VT for a couple of days before he flies back. I'm on my own after that, so I'll PM you the dates. It's so nice to have things to look forward to.

Well, back to the ice pack on my eyes...I'm taking your advice, Kat. Sorry for any typos. I'm having a bit of a hard time seeing the screen. Thanks again for the support. It means the world to me. Maura 

neversurrender

WooHoo.  Way to go Maura !  Wearing the bra 24/7 for 2 months...yuck, but it will be soooo worth it !

KatRNagain92

24/7 bra?  Can it be 23/7 so you can shower?  What about washing it?  Now I'm a little concerned with my exchange and my work schedule/wardrobe.  e-gads!  Why is it that no two exchanges are alike? 

I'm glad you're feeling ok though Maura...hope your week just keeps getting better and better!

Kat

pbebow

Wow Maura, glad that you aren't in too much pain.  Guess I didn't realize that your surgery was so late in the day, no wonder we didn't hear from you.  Mine is at 8:00 in the morning I have to be at the hospital at 6:00 am.  Which kind of sucks, but at least I wake up and get it over with and then I can eat (that cracked me up about the most wonderful granola bar ever!).  I'm sure that your eyes will be better in no time and you'll be so happy that you did it.  So, a bra 24/7 for 2 MONTHS!!!  Wow!   I have to say, that sucks!  I have no idea what my PS is going to have me do.  I know that he is a "No underwires" kind of PS so it won't be an underwire for 24/7, but it could be that awful, ugly surgery bra that he put me in after the BMX...  but I hope not, he is doing my nipples at the same time as exchange and I am going to need to wear a bra that will disguise those things until they shrink up a little.  That reminds me, he told me to buy some corn pads (for feet) to wear to protect the nipples, need to do that today.  Won't that be attractive!?  Can you say sexy!  haha! 

Kat, I hope that your appt on Friday goes well...  hopefully he'll agree with what you want to do.  My husband agrees with you about me being like a kid, especially for b-days and xmas!  haha!  Oh well, have to try to stay young, especially now that I'm a grandma!

Robin, glad that you got your bumps and you think you're going to be happy with them.  I am sooooo happy to hear that you are BRCA negative!!!  When I got that phone call to tell me that my test was negative I literally cried, I was so happy.  Mostly I was happy for my daughter, I know that she'll still be at risk because I have had BC, but at least it's not in the genes!  The next best news (and they are almost a tie) is when I got my pathology report that said everything was clear and the cancer is gone!!!  I hope that your appt goes well!

 Lynn, hope you are getting better every day and are getting used to the yippee squishies!!! 

Good rainy day ladies!

Paula

pbebow

Marianne, I almost forgot!  I love that you're going to go and get a Hooters shirt!  I love mine, makes me feel very womanly (in a raunchy sort of way, but there is nothing wrong with that every so often!)

jizogarden

Morning all,

Robin congratulations on getting your new "bumps" I remember you talking about what a difficult step it was to take.  So glad to hear your BRCA negative....it must be a silver lining in all of this to know you wont be passing it on

Maura so glad to hear from you and to know that even with pocket work you've only needed some tylenol  Bra for 2 months....blahhhh!  As Kat says it seems like no two people come out of the exchange with the same instructions.  Congratulations on getting through your exchange with flying colors!  Gives us all hope  Wishes of healing and comfort  I'll see you in CT this summer

Going in for my pre-op blood work today.  Also having my thyroid levels retested...my medication seems to be below par.  I think all the stress and physical changes of the past few months have sent my levels plummeting.  I've had Hashimoto's for several years, it's an autoimmune disease where your own immune system attacks your thyroid gland until it's finally gotten rid of it all together..... 

I seem to fallen down the rabbit hole of prosthetic nipples....here's a custom made site...geeez!

http://www.nippleprosthesis.com/predesignedorderform.html  (not cheap! sparkles not include

Healing and comfort,

Laura 

ariesrottie

Robin- BRCA NEG.... Way to go... That is one of my worst nightmares now... Carrying this insane disease over to my kids.... I'm Still waiting but good for you....

Maura- Laura---- Thinking about you.

Sally- Sorry to hear avbout you DD... My DD played in college for 2 years. She loves it. Hope she heals quick. How have you been?

Kat- {{Hugs}}

Got to go girls I have a little vertigo right now and the room is spinning faster then I am/

TTUL<
Donna

neversurrender

{{Donna}} I am doing well.  I hope you are feeling better.  Has this treatment been better than last?  DD is very disappointed about soccer being on hold.  Where did your DD play?   

Lyn, How are you today?  Maura, Still feeling ok?

Robin - how was the appointment today?

{{{{Marianne}}}} I hope today finds you feeling a little less blue.

{{{{Kat}}}} 

I saw my PS today to discuss the lift/no lift quandry.  He answered all my questions and diagrammed it all out for me.  The deciding factor -- I can have this done anytime (even years from now) and it will still be considered part of my recon, and insurance will cover.  That settled it for me.  I was so on the fence about it.  I am very happy with the way they look right now, and was a little afraid to have anything done to my breasts that might mess them up.  I also could not decide it it was worth it to me to have the scars in exchange for the lift. I really like the idea of being scar free on my breasts.   At least now I know the option is there if I ever decide I want to do it.  He will do all the touch ups we had planned and then let things 'settle'.  When I decide that I am happy with shape and size we will do nipples.  So surgery will be Thursday at 9am.  He estimates that it will be about 2 1/2 hours. 

I had my BRCA test sent away before my MX and the results were supposed to come in the week of my surgery.  I was then to have an appt the week after my release from the hospital to go over results.  The test results were also supposed to be sent directly to my BS.  Well, as I was waiting to leave the hospital, I was reading my discharge papers, it had a spot for diagnosis and in it is said "BRCA mutation".  I was horrified.  I called a nurse into the room and told her I needed to know what that meant, was it my BRCA results?  The way she talked, I thought it was my BRCA test results.  My husband took her to mean that also.  I was so upset.  I had done so well with surgery and my recovery was going well at that point, and I felt like the rug had been pulled out from under me.   I just kept picturing my DDs and was heartbroken.  I tried to reach BS to find out more info, but he was in surgery.  When we got home, I called the genetics counselor and left her a message.  When she called back she was so mad--I was negative for BRCA--and she could not understand what was on my discharge papers.  Well, as someone who thought (thankfully for only a few hours) she was BRCA + , I can say the relief of being negative is HUGE !   I hope all of you with tests results pending get the same negative results.

Strength and Courage !

Never Surrender !

Sally

faithandfifty

Team January.

I am 97% packed up and ready to head to the airport in the morning.

First stop: Baltimore & a day w/DD2 to help them get their first home ready for move-in. I speak at a conference there on Fri. (How nice to have someone to pay me to go visit my daughter.)

Then home for a brief couple of days in OH and then straight out the door to Chicago.

Ready or not, I am about to re-enter my real life, even further into it's progress.

I just saw a note from our Lynbob on FB. She still has enough pain that even typing on the keyboard is considered a no-no. I'm sure she will be glad to know that we are all thinking of her.

Gina. I heard a small tidbit on this morning's news about the Derby & of course I thought of you. Hope that you are regaining sufficient strength for your 'victory lap.'

Maria. Even though we haven't heard from you in a while, I keep sending out good wishes your way. Hope that your healing continues.

Team buddies. I will have little access to internet in the next couple of days. Possibly thru my phone. Sometimes that works slick as silk, other times not at all. In any case. Everyone keep the home fires lit and the camraderie alive.

I'll be thinking of each of you going thru new surgeries, tests, chemo, continued decision making and all the rest of the regular life issues that present themselves.

Take care. Full steam ahead.

xx00xx00xx00xx

Strength and courage.

Strength and courage.

Strength and courage.

grdnslve

way to go robin!!!!   part of me wishes they would have done the tests for me, but the answers would just frustrate me one way or the other.  they just said it was a moot point.

maura--congrats on success...even though you are practically in a corset....get some lace & think scarlett.

sally--doing better this week, thanks for asking.  so must be getting close to the next treatment.  actually, this is the best i have felt since starting.  how sad is that.  actually ate a sandwich yesterday...and thinking about  all-you-can-eat-seafood at the casino on fri...take my hand sanitizer & try not to breath while i'm hoping to win enough to pay for new boobs.  sometimes you all scare me a bit about the te's & fills....was hoping to maybe squeeze it in this year, but maybe i will wait after all.

have a good day all.

pbebow

grdnslve:  I hope that we don't scare you out of the TE's and Fills, for me, yes I had 2 painful fills, but within a few days the had gotten better.  Right now, overfilled to 650 cc's I am in no pain, I didn't realize it but I have my full range of motion back... figured that out this morning before I got in the shower, reached up to throw the towel over the shower door and realized that it didn't hurt when I tossed and I started reaching and stretching and moving and it's all there, just like before.  And I can only imagine that it's going to be even better after my exchange on Friday... yes a few days of pain or being uncomfortable, but soooooo worth it.  I had my BMX with SNB and TE's placed on Jan. 8th, and April 16th I will have my exchange...  I have to say that the time passed so quickly for me.  I have no regrets and would do it again in a heart beat!  Just thought that I'd throw that out there, so that you're not afraid, sometimes we just need to vent, but that's how life is, just need to get it off your chest, so to speak.  Anyway, hope you have a wonderful day!

Paula

robinlbe

Thanks everybody for your kind words.  I didn't wear my bumps today....as I didn't get the pockets sewn in.  I really NEED to get that done, as I only have a 15 day window for returns if I find they're not right after having them. 

Maura....my mom had that eyelid surgery a couple of years ago (I THINK yours was eyelid, anyway).  Hers was done in an office setting, and I actually watched!  I stayed with her for a couple of days, and that first night for her was miserable.  She had to sleep reclining (mostly sitting) in a recliner and I brought her ice packs every hour.  BUT, she had little to no bruising.  You'll do great

I am really excited for all of you getting your exchanges.  I don't envy you, but I am excited because YOU are all so excited

I didn't end up going to the surgeon today.  After four weeks of constant tightness in my armpits, puffiness, etc....and then having the oncologist TELL me I needed to see my surgeon, would you believe, when I awoke this morning, the swelling/puffiness/fluids or whatever it is was down????  AND stayed down all day long?!?!?!   argh.  sigh...go figure.  So, I called the office, told the nurse, and said there would be nothing for him to look at, so I didn't want to waste his time.....But she did tell me that if it starts up again, to give them a call and they'll get me right in.

For those in treatments, waiting, and all....thougths and prayers.

Debbie....I know you were/are heading to Kentucky sometime....be sure to let me know when/where....if it's close to Louisville, let me know....I'm just across the river (I can see L'ville from my house!!!!!!!)  

And yes, Derby time is approaching...this weekend is Thunder over Louisville, the next weekend is the mini-marathon, and the next weekend is the Oaks (where Gina is walking) and the Derby.

Speaking of Gina, she called me yesterday...she's doing well, but is really tired after working all day.  She and I are going to a BC survivor's retreat the first weekend in June

blessings...robin

frosty1

Wow ... so much going on.  All sorts of new surgeries and challenges.  Glad to hear everyone is doing well and on the mend.  Tomorrow is chemo #3, which means I am halfway through my initial chemo cocktail.  Yippee!  It really sucks that just when you start feeling your regular normal self, you go in for chemo and start the cycle all over again.  Oh well. 

I have to say I am constantly amazed at how many people have been on this journey or have been touched by someone on this BC journey.  I was telling my co-workers just after I started work:  1 had a grandmother who had BC, 1 had a best friend who had BC, 1 has a mom and grandma who had BC (grandma is 80 and doing very well), another with a mom ... it is just amazing.  Out with just a scarft on my head this weekend and to get over my self-consciousness, I kept thinking "that woman could have had cancer, or could be wearing a wig, or could have foobs."  You just don't know.

Happy sunny day thoughts to all of you.

pbebow

I had my pre-op phone call from the hospital the other day and the lady asked me if I was pregnant or nursing!  WTS!!!  I was like, "Um, nooooo...."  I so wanted to say, "Um, No, I don't have any nipples, it would be pretty difficult to nurse without those!"  I know that they just have a standard form that they use and read from, but I really think that they should also be aware of what surgery the patient is having so that they don't ask upsetting questions.  It didn't really bother me, but if I were in my 20's or 30's and hadn't had my kids yet, it probably would've really upset me knowing that I won't be able to nurse.  Anyway, just thought I'd share that silly little thing.

Have a good day ladies!

Paula