Contralateral Lump

Thanks for every comment...so much support and positive energy. It is amazing to be part of this stage 3 sisterhood especially since stage 3 majorly sucks.

I am visiting with my Mom (84) and sister in Charlotte until we head back to Duke Wed.  It will be the first b'day I've celebrated here in years.  It's quiet and peaceful here and has a way of bringing me back to my core.  I sleep in my childhood bedroom...can reminise about the cornstalk playhouses I used to build...the pecan orchard is LOADED with pecans and the pear tree is loaded with amazing heirloom pears. There is time to talk and read and remember. I am blessed to love home yet be able to go back home...to visit...Mr. Wolfe.  I am in a very good place to be ready for whatever Wed. brings and I'm optimistic it will be good news.

BTW, I have to disagree with whoever says you are only a number at NIH cancer centers. My onc. was one of the 'Ask the Expert" from the 2009 San Antonio symposium, a consummate researcher and internationally respected clinician. He returned my call within 30 mins. when I called re this lump on Monday and had me scheduled for mammo and ultrasound for Wed. morning. All of my docs (cancer and gastroenterologists) are available, attentive and highly competent....capable of giving undivided and compassionate attention and get things done. So much depends on the doctor no matter where you get treatment...some NIH centers really strive for individualized care and a holistic approach as well as a reputation for research and successful tx.

Thinking of all of you today....Molly

Thanks for all the b'day and biopsy support, gals.  I'm officially one year older today with no  news . 

The radiologist and resident had a lot of trouble keeping the tiny lump (8mm) in view on the ultrasound to get the core samples. It seems surrounding cysts kept hiding it...I thought cysts diminished with menopause?? but they said I have a multitude in the area. They kept adjusting the needle and seemed mystified at times...then said "there's another one".  I questioned what they were seeing and the radiologist said "it is a second one about the same size and both seem to be part of the same process".....    She said she believes they got good samples and promised to call Friday if results are back, even if it is in the evening.  Otherwise, it'll be Monday. 

I'm a little more worried now. They began by looking at the ultrasound pics and saying they thought it would be fine.  As it wore on, I sensed  everything looked and proceded a little differently than expected.  Part of my apprehension is PTSD (another surprise yesterday) from the 1st biopsy...you know, the one that changed my world. I don't have enough experience with these "scares" to keep everything in perspective...I'm happy to stay in the moment and not perseverate about information I don't have.

Weesa...I'll jump at an opportunity to meet and libate at the pub.  Driving up on the Blue Ridge Pkwy. yesterday the leaves were stunning with the evening light playing through them. What an incredible place to live, ice storms and all .

I name each of you and send blessings and gratitude when I read your posts on this board. Will keep you posted as I know more and ask that you continue the day with fingers crossed  .

Molly