J P drains

I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in July of 2016.

Since my insurance covered reconstruction my decision went from getting a lumpectomy to a double mastectomy with reconstruction.

I had my surgery in Sept of 2016 & had expanders put in place. I had 25 treatments of radiation (right side) after my expanding was complete. Last radiation treatment was Feb 3. In mid March I began having what felt like painful spasms in right breast. The plastic surgeon's assistant tried to draw out some of the saline to reduce pressure. I was losing my appetite & tired. One night at work my right breast felt wet. The next morning I saw radiation oncologist who then told me I needed to see Plastic Surgeon asap.

Plastic surgeon said I had, what appeared to be, an infection & the right expander needed to come out immediately. I had surgery the next day, & had both expanders removed. The surgeon left me packed for 2 days to fight the infection which was only on my right side. He said it was a form of merca & the worst infection he ever saw. When he stitched me up my breasts he left them a visual mess. Horrible to even look at.

Six months later, with my oncologist's encouragement, I decided to get my chest 'cleaned up'. I saw a differed plastic surgeon & told him I did not want reconstruction, just 'cleaned up'. I had my surgery March 8th of this year. He put 2 JP drains in me. Three days after surgery the left drain was leaking so bad I had to call the doctor. In his office the removed the left drain. They drew 240cc's from that side. I've had no problems with that side since. However my right side still has the JP drain, 4 1/2 weeks post op. My drain is only at 50. He won't remove drain until under 30. I've gained weight I'm miserable. Now work is ready to kick me off their insurance & offer me COBRA. I'm so depressed. The support group I've gone to has women in their 60's & 70's & are married with spousal support. I am self sufficient & scared. I just want this drain removed. I called the Doctor & told him that my count isn't anywhere near 30 cc. Can't we do something? I'm going in to see him in 5 days. I just want my life back. Seeking support from someone who truly understands is hard. For today, I pray. This has been my journey, I didn't even need a double mastectomy, it was my decision. Unbelievable what I've been through.