On August 17 I had my annual GYN exam and was given an A+. A few weeks later I had my usual mammogram. I needed to do a repeat, then an ultra sound, next some core biopsies, and finally an MRI.
This past Wednesday, I had a 2-1/2 hour meeting with my doctor who specializes in breast diseases and she answered all of my questions before I had an opportunity to ask them. I'm confident in her knowledge and skills. I'm feeling really good about what's happening.
I'm doing quite well--very well. I'll be having a mastectomy of my right breast unless I have a spontaneous remission. Yesterday I met with a plastic surgeon and I'll meet with another one next week. I'm not sure yet whether I want reconstructive surgery--am at 60/40. I'll probably have my surgery within the next two to three weeks; the reconstruction is started at the time of the mastectomy.
The MRI showed another tumor running from the first mass to the nipple (about 3.5mm). If I have a lumpectomy, there's a good chance that I might have to have a second surgery--more removal of the tissue or more likely, a mastectomy. I'd rather have one surgery. Also, with a mastectomy, the likelihood of radiation is very, very low. Chemo would occur only if I have positive lymph node involvement. She'll be doing sentinel node surgery. So far, pathology reports did not show lymph involvement. I have estrogen positive cancer (which has advantages).
I'm feeling fine--do not have a clue of what's going on in my body. If I'd skipped my mammogram, I'd think I was just fine...
I've been uplifted by family and friends. I've always believed in living in the moment which I'm continuing to do. I'm surrounded by love of friends and family that keeps out all fear and anxiety. I'm still sleeping well at night, that's my gauge that I'm honest with myself.
I'm making changes to my life--nurturing myself more than others--creating a balance in my life that was off balance. This is another learning experience for me in this lifetime. It's exciting and an adventure in many ways. I know and feel that "all will be well".
