Yet another NEWBIE!

JuJuBeez
JuJuBeez Member Posts: 332
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
I am 43, and mother of 7 yr old girl. I was just diagnosed with IDC on 3/29/10. The tumor size is .08 cm. I am scheduled for a lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy on 4/26/10. It's been a whirlwind of information and emotions. I received two packages of brochures from ACS last Saturday, and it really hit me "Crap! I am a cancer patient now!" I met my surgeon on 4/1 and thought she was wonderful. She's around my age and a mother of three, so I felt like she would totally 'get' my concerns. I had a nice talk that same night with my daughter. I know she is scared and worried, but we talk about it often. And for me to convince her that I will be okay, I have to believe it first! I contacted the school nurse, teacher, and counselor so they all keep an eye on her and let her know they are available for her if she needs them. The teacher moved my daughter's desk to the front of the room incase she needs hugs during the day. Most of the time I do pretty well, mostly when I'm at work. Every so often I feel overwhelmed like I want to have a margarita and go to bed for a week. I'm a little nervous about the surgery and whether or not the lymph nodes are affected. The surgeon did a BRCA test because of my age and no family history, but I haven't received the results of that yet. I did find out today that my Vitamin D level is just 5 and it should be between 30-100. I have to pick up a prescription supplement tonight. Any hints on things to do or take before the surgery to make it go more smoothly? Is there such a thing? I joke about margaritas, but I really don't drink. Maybe I should start. :-)
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Comments

  • tdob487
    tdob487 Member Posts: 12
    #2
    Welcome
    I am knew too, I was diagnosed on Jan 29th. I had my lumpectomy and sentinel biopsy on Feb. 12th and my lymph nodes and margins were clear so I hope you will have the same results. I totally know what you are going through, it is so overwhelming and it all happens so fast. It helps to have the support of family and friends which is great but sometimes they don't understand what you are going through, the feelings and emotions, it is a scary time. It hit me that my life as I knew it would never be the same and that was hard for me to face but with support and God, I got through it. I am currently in radiation which hasn't been too bad yet. This is a great place to come, read others experiences and talk with people who understand you. Good luck, we are here if you need us.
  • TraciInLA
    TraciInLA Member Posts: 1,994 Member
    #3
    "Crap, I am a cancer patient now!"
    Welcome, JuJuBeez -

    I had that same thought after my first visit with the surgeon, 4 days after I was diagnosed, when he sent me down the hall to the oncologist's office to get my blood drawn for the BRCA test. I stood in the hall looking at the word "oncologist" on the door and just couldn't believe I was walking into an oncologist's office.

    I was diagnosed with IDC last year at the age of 40. I had tumors in both breasts, but they were also very small, only 2 millimeters each. I had bilateral lumpectomies and sentinel node biopsies back in June.

    I'm honestly impressed by how thoughtful and organized you sound -- please have confidence in yourself that you're handling this very well, because it really sounds like you are, and know that you're doing a lot to help your daughter handle this, too.

    I came home the evening of my surgery, and my girlfriend stayed with me for the first 3 days. I was glad to have her there for at least the first 2, because I was a little bit limited in raising my arms above my head, and also a little freaked out in general from the anesthesia and pain meds -- so I would recommend that you have someone with you initially.

    The one thing I wish I'd done was get a recliner to sleep in, because trying to sleep on my back for the first couple of weeks was just impossible. Since you're not having surgery to both breasts, that might not be as much of an issue for you, but, if you do have a recliner, you might prepare to sleep in it for awhile.

    Come back often, and ask any questions you have -- these women and men are the best companions for this journey you'll find anywhere.

    Traci
  • TraciInLA
    TraciInLA Member Posts: 1,994 Member
    #4
    Pudding
    I forgot, one more suggestion: pudding.

    They intubated me during the surgery, so, when I got home, my throat was very dry and sore, and it was impossible to take the big Vicodin horse pills. I happened to have some chocolate pudding in the fridge, so my girlfriend pulverized the pill with a hammer and mixed it with a little pudding -- worked beautifully, and the pudding totally masked the taste of the medicine.

    So, I've decided, if I ever have to have any more surgery, I'm going to make sure to have chocolate pudding (and a hammer) ready and waiting!

    Traci
  • Megan M
    Megan M Member Posts: 3,000
    #5
    Just want to say welcome and
    Just want to say welcome and hi to you! You have found a great support group here in these bc survivors!
  • youngnana
    youngnana Member Posts: 41
    #6
    JuJuBeez,
    Welcome, so glad
    JuJuBeez,
    Welcome, so glad you found this site, and so sorry that you had a need to search. I am fairly new here also. Unfortunately, I did not have a lumpectomy, so am unsure of the recovery, or limitations. I was diagnosed 2/23 IBC, also .08cm. First, I declined the needle biopsy and requested they remove the entire lump instead, which they did, day surgery, and not at all painful afterward. I was fully aware that if it came back positive they would need to go back in for additional tissue for a lumpectomy. When it did test positive, I had decided on a bilateral mastectomy. I didnt want rads, and I didnt want to worry, I just wanted them gone. This was easier said than done. I grieved for their loss. I had immediate reconstruction with expanders...It has really been ok, not nearly as difficult as I had expected. My path report came back no nodes involved, and all margins clear, ER+, PR-. Now waiting for the results of the genetic testing, a low score means likely no additional treatments, and if comes back high, will need to discuss options. I do feel positive. Cancer is an all consuming thing, it crowds our minds, directs our conversations, and forces us to make life altering decisions. I send you prayers for strength and comfort, know that the women here are compassionate and caring, the best friends you will ever find. Let us know how you are doing.
    Here's a funny story for you....my grandaughter is 4, I was at a doctors appt when a friend from work called. She answered the phone and said Nana is not here, she is at the doctors, getting her boobies fixed !!! So, children can understand what is going on if we explain it in a way their age allows them to comprehend. I just wonder who else may have called and heard that same response ??? Sending your daughter a hug also, an extra one always helps.
    Karen
  • JuJuBeez
    JuJuBeez Member Posts: 332
    #7
    youngnana said:

    JuJuBeez,
    Welcome, so glad
    JuJuBeez,
    Welcome, so glad you found this site, and so sorry that you had a need to search. I am fairly new here also. Unfortunately, I did not have a lumpectomy, so am unsure of the recovery, or limitations. I was diagnosed 2/23 IBC, also .08cm. First, I declined the needle biopsy and requested they remove the entire lump instead, which they did, day surgery, and not at all painful afterward. I was fully aware that if it came back positive they would need to go back in for additional tissue for a lumpectomy. When it did test positive, I had decided on a bilateral mastectomy. I didnt want rads, and I didnt want to worry, I just wanted them gone. This was easier said than done. I grieved for their loss. I had immediate reconstruction with expanders...It has really been ok, not nearly as difficult as I had expected. My path report came back no nodes involved, and all margins clear, ER+, PR-. Now waiting for the results of the genetic testing, a low score means likely no additional treatments, and if comes back high, will need to discuss options. I do feel positive. Cancer is an all consuming thing, it crowds our minds, directs our conversations, and forces us to make life altering decisions. I send you prayers for strength and comfort, know that the women here are compassionate and caring, the best friends you will ever find. Let us know how you are doing.
    Here's a funny story for you....my grandaughter is 4, I was at a doctors appt when a friend from work called. She answered the phone and said Nana is not here, she is at the doctors, getting her boobies fixed !!! So, children can understand what is going on if we explain it in a way their age allows them to comprehend. I just wonder who else may have called and heard that same response ??? Sending your daughter a hug also, an extra one always helps.
    Karen

    Guilt-Free Conversations! YAY!
    Thank you all for the kind words, encouragement, and helpful information. I have started to avoid talking about "THE-C-WORD" around work friends and family. I don't want them to start avoiding me because they don't want to talk about it. I know everyone is concerned, but life goes on around me. I LOVE that I can come here and say whatever I need to. Thank you all a million times for that!

    While I'm on that subject, may I just say that if I have to hear "Well, if you're going to get cancer, that's the type to get.." one more time, I will have to hurt somebody! It's like I was picking out a pair of shoes and decided on the 'IBC Cancer Pink Ribbon' specials, or something. Good grief, Charlie Brown! Okay, thank you... I just needed to say that. Again, I will add the disclaimer that I know everyone is concerned and looking for something to say that's helpful, but this statement has started to bother me. Anyone else have a statement that's like nails on a chalkboard when you hear it?

    Thanks again to all you lovely ladies here who are brave enough to share their stories with the rest of us! I really admire your strength, and being strong enough to help us newly diagnosed from running scared in the streets. XOXO! ~Julie
  • JuJuBeez
    JuJuBeez Member Posts: 332
    #8
    JuJuBeez said:

    Guilt-Free Conversations! YAY!
    Thank you all for the kind words, encouragement, and helpful information. I have started to avoid talking about "THE-C-WORD" around work friends and family. I don't want them to start avoiding me because they don't want to talk about it. I know everyone is concerned, but life goes on around me. I LOVE that I can come here and say whatever I need to. Thank you all a million times for that!

    While I'm on that subject, may I just say that if I have to hear "Well, if you're going to get cancer, that's the type to get.." one more time, I will have to hurt somebody! It's like I was picking out a pair of shoes and decided on the 'IBC Cancer Pink Ribbon' specials, or something. Good grief, Charlie Brown! Okay, thank you... I just needed to say that. Again, I will add the disclaimer that I know everyone is concerned and looking for something to say that's helpful, but this statement has started to bother me. Anyone else have a statement that's like nails on a chalkboard when you hear it?

    Thanks again to all you lovely ladies here who are brave enough to share their stories with the rest of us! I really admire your strength, and being strong enough to help us newly diagnosed from running scared in the streets. XOXO! ~Julie

    oops
    I meant "IDC", not "IBC".. ha ha.. IBC is a root beer! Cheers! :-)
  • TraciInLA
    TraciInLA Member Posts: 1,994 Member
    #9
    JuJuBeez said:

    Guilt-Free Conversations! YAY!
    Thank you all for the kind words, encouragement, and helpful information. I have started to avoid talking about "THE-C-WORD" around work friends and family. I don't want them to start avoiding me because they don't want to talk about it. I know everyone is concerned, but life goes on around me. I LOVE that I can come here and say whatever I need to. Thank you all a million times for that!

    While I'm on that subject, may I just say that if I have to hear "Well, if you're going to get cancer, that's the type to get.." one more time, I will have to hurt somebody! It's like I was picking out a pair of shoes and decided on the 'IBC Cancer Pink Ribbon' specials, or something. Good grief, Charlie Brown! Okay, thank you... I just needed to say that. Again, I will add the disclaimer that I know everyone is concerned and looking for something to say that's helpful, but this statement has started to bother me. Anyone else have a statement that's like nails on a chalkboard when you hear it?

    Thanks again to all you lovely ladies here who are brave enough to share their stories with the rest of us! I really admire your strength, and being strong enough to help us newly diagnosed from running scared in the streets. XOXO! ~Julie

    Shopping for shoes and cancer?
    You know, after sitting in the waiting room at the radiation center for 2 months with folks with other types of cancer, and listening to what they have to go through, I actually do believe -- for myself only -- that, if I had to get cancer, I got one of the "easier" ones.

    But for heaven's sakes, I would never, NEVER say that to someone else! Cancer treatment is a tough road no matter what it is. Good grief is right, JuJuBeez!

    I think you should respond to them with something like, "Yeah, I was out shopping for shoes, and didn't see anything I liked, so I picked up some cancer instead. They were having a Buy One, Get One Free Special -- would you like the other one?

    >:-( Traci
  • KayNYC
    KayNYC Member Posts: 495 Member
    #10
    JuJuBeez said:

    Guilt-Free Conversations! YAY!
    Thank you all for the kind words, encouragement, and helpful information. I have started to avoid talking about "THE-C-WORD" around work friends and family. I don't want them to start avoiding me because they don't want to talk about it. I know everyone is concerned, but life goes on around me. I LOVE that I can come here and say whatever I need to. Thank you all a million times for that!

    While I'm on that subject, may I just say that if I have to hear "Well, if you're going to get cancer, that's the type to get.." one more time, I will have to hurt somebody! It's like I was picking out a pair of shoes and decided on the 'IBC Cancer Pink Ribbon' specials, or something. Good grief, Charlie Brown! Okay, thank you... I just needed to say that. Again, I will add the disclaimer that I know everyone is concerned and looking for something to say that's helpful, but this statement has started to bother me. Anyone else have a statement that's like nails on a chalkboard when you hear it?

    Thanks again to all you lovely ladies here who are brave enough to share their stories with the rest of us! I really admire your strength, and being strong enough to help us newly diagnosed from running scared in the streets. XOXO! ~Julie

    Fairly new too
    Hi JUJUBeez,
    I was also diagnosed with IDC of the Left breast early in March 2010.I had a Lumpectomy and Sentinal node excision on March 17, 2010. The Seroma that occurred after my surgery is just clearing up and I have been back at work since 3/31. I have my first Medical Oncologist meeting next Thurs and one week later, the Radiation Oncologist appointment.
    Things went very quickly once I was diagnosed. With all the arrangements necessary for finding coverage for my clients and preparing for the two weeks off from work, I didn't have much chance to feel many emotions. Numbness and generally operating on "autopilot" were my primary emotional modes
    The pathology reported evidenced a very small CA of 3mm with clean nodes (they removed six) and clear margins. Prior to surgery, I ate well, was mindful of getting adequate sleep, began journaling my Cancer journey and made contact with old and new friends who were very supportive before and after my surgery. I also purchased several soft Sports bras that ware suggested to provide suppport and compression in the post operative period.
    Before and after surgery, I read everything I could get my hands on about breast cancer and treatment. For me, it was helpful to be armed with all of the information. It helped alleviate anxiety and helped me ask questions in my meeting with the surgeon and the various other treatment team members.
    Being diagnosed with Cancer has given me a new perspective on my life and I am trying to make every day the best it can be. I find myself more often than not, not sweating the small stuff and not getting "stuck' or "clinging to" painful emotions. I am certainly, a "work in progress" in the "letting distress go and "accepting what is " department. Awaiting part two of my journey (radiation). I'm about one third of the way there....
    Wishing you all the best. Keep in touch. The Pink Warriors on this site are wonderful. Welcome.
    K
  • tdob487
    tdob487 Member Posts: 12
    #11
    JuJuBeez said:

    Guilt-Free Conversations! YAY!
    Thank you all for the kind words, encouragement, and helpful information. I have started to avoid talking about "THE-C-WORD" around work friends and family. I don't want them to start avoiding me because they don't want to talk about it. I know everyone is concerned, but life goes on around me. I LOVE that I can come here and say whatever I need to. Thank you all a million times for that!

    While I'm on that subject, may I just say that if I have to hear "Well, if you're going to get cancer, that's the type to get.." one more time, I will have to hurt somebody! It's like I was picking out a pair of shoes and decided on the 'IBC Cancer Pink Ribbon' specials, or something. Good grief, Charlie Brown! Okay, thank you... I just needed to say that. Again, I will add the disclaimer that I know everyone is concerned and looking for something to say that's helpful, but this statement has started to bother me. Anyone else have a statement that's like nails on a chalkboard when you hear it?

    Thanks again to all you lovely ladies here who are brave enough to share their stories with the rest of us! I really admire your strength, and being strong enough to help us newly diagnosed from running scared in the streets. XOXO! ~Julie

    I understand what you mean about saying breast cancer is the "type" to get, there's no type anyone wants to get. What astonishes me is the number of women have this, have had it or will get it. My husband is wearing a pink ribbon band in support of me and so many people have asked him about it and they too have a wife, friend,co-worker etc that is going through this. It just blows me away.

    Anyway, feel free to come here to discuss your feelings, worries, anxieties, whatever because like you, my friends have been great but I'm sure they don't want to talk about it all the time and they don't understand. Here, everyone knows what you are going through and can relate.

    Stay strong and positive!!
  • TawnyS
    TawnyS Member Posts: 144 Member
    #12
    Hi! I'm lovin' all this!
    Hi! I'm lovin' all this! You know, you must find humor in all this craziness. I love the shoe thing! So funny! It does get to me when people say things. I don't know why but mine was...."Well,....you look good." I have heard that so much. I truly know people mean well...I know this. I love these people that say that to me, but what I am suppose to look like? Did you expect me to throw in the towel at 36 and look like hell? If anything this bc has empowered me to look and feel more like a woman than ever!
  • Chrispea
    Chrispea Member Posts: 123 Member
    #13
    I am 42 (discovered at 41),
    I am 42 (discovered at 41), have IDC, I did chemo first, and just had a mastectomy.

    Anyway, when I first found out, I spoke to my 10 year old son's teacher and let her know. She is so sweet. She gave me an aloe vera plant that has been passed around to several other woman who had breast cancer (one was my son's teacher in 4th grade) who used it during radiation, and all are doing well now.

    Just stay positive and try to be as normal as possible. I even told people that I'm close to, I don't want babied and I don't want pitied.

    As for the surgery, I was nervous, too. I had a full radical mastectomy, but it all went smoothly. Trust in your surgeon, it's what they do, you'll be fine.
  • heidijez
    heidijez Member Posts: 441
    #14
    TawnyS said:

    Hi! I'm lovin' all this!
    Hi! I'm lovin' all this! You know, you must find humor in all this craziness. I love the shoe thing! So funny! It does get to me when people say things. I don't know why but mine was...."Well,....you look good." I have heard that so much. I truly know people mean well...I know this. I love these people that say that to me, but what I am suppose to look like? Did you expect me to throw in the towel at 36 and look like hell? If anything this bc has empowered me to look and feel more like a woman than ever!

    yup, you're looking really good
    i hear that all the time. . . so did i look like crap before???? i still get dressed wearing the same clothes as before cancer. . .but i wear a stupid wig and have no eyelashes or eyebrows. . . so tell me, how on earth can i look really good???
  • aisling8
    aisling8 Member Posts: 1,627 Member
    #15
    Chrispea said:

    I am 42 (discovered at 41),
    I am 42 (discovered at 41), have IDC, I did chemo first, and just had a mastectomy.

    Anyway, when I first found out, I spoke to my 10 year old son's teacher and let her know. She is so sweet. She gave me an aloe vera plant that has been passed around to several other woman who had breast cancer (one was my son's teacher in 4th grade) who used it during radiation, and all are doing well now.

    Just stay positive and try to be as normal as possible. I even told people that I'm close to, I don't want babied and I don't want pitied.

    As for the surgery, I was nervous, too. I had a full radical mastectomy, but it all went smoothly. Trust in your surgeon, it's what they do, you'll be fine.

    me too, lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy
    Hi,

    I had a lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy in early March, margins clear, no node involvement, and I'm in my first week and a half of radiation. I had the Oncotype Dx test to decide if chemo was necessary. It wasn't, thank goodness.

    I want to tell you that the fear and waiting is worse than surgery and its aftermath. The dye injections for the sentinel node biopsy didn't bother me and surgery was a snap. I literally walked two miles the next morning. Never used the pain medication.

    People say the stupidest things when they find out you have cancer, things like "at least" this and "at least" that and I think what they really mean is at least it's not them.

    Most people have been tremendously kind and supportive and for some reason, I'm finding the radiation experience, same faces in the waiting room every day, very poignant and touching.

    You'll do just fine.

    Victoria
  • Youcandothis
    Youcandothis Member Posts: 79
    #16
    Sports camis
    Get a few, they'll make you more comfortable after surgery. They keep you from jiggling and hold your drain in place. Think of one or two things to ask your daughter to do for you. She wants to help and if you can plan some simple things--bring you glasses of water, put a flower on the table-she'lll feel so much more part of your recovery. Good luck and hugs to you and yours.
  • laurissa
    laurissa Member Posts: 773
    #17
    Hi juju
    I'm almost at the end of my treatment, in radiation now. I've been thru chemo and lumpectomy. I'm all clear now and hope it stays that way. My tumor was 4 cm in right breast and lymph node too. Chemo shrunk it to nothing. Was diagnosed in Sept. I wish you well and keep posting.
  • Teppers
    Teppers Member Posts: 17
    #18
    Lumpectomy and Sentinel Node
    I just had that surgery a week ago.

    One thing that helped me with nerves is that the anesthisiologist (sp?) can give you something for nerves before surgery if you need it. They inject for the sentinel nodes and then I had to wait for a few hours before surgery, so I asked for that medicine and it helps if you are nervous at all! Also talking with that Dr. about what he could do so I wouldn't feel nauseated when I woke up really helped. If you have had past surgeries, let that Dr. know and if you haven't had any problems with anesthesia that's great and you won't have to!

    I went home the same day, which was awesome. I only needed to take Ibuprofen, but ask for something else just in case. No use getting home and being in pain.

    What helped me the most was the prayers of many people, so don't know if you would like that, but if you have a prayer line, nice to get on it and I will be praying for you. That is what lifted me up and gave me so much hope and strength in all of this!!

    Hope that helps and I'll be thinking of you. I am 50 and have an 18 and 11 year old and a husband and this has been a bit harder on them than it has on me!
  • JuJuBeez
    JuJuBeez Member Posts: 332
    #19
    Teppers said:

    Lumpectomy and Sentinel Node
    I just had that surgery a week ago.

    One thing that helped me with nerves is that the anesthisiologist (sp?) can give you something for nerves before surgery if you need it. They inject for the sentinel nodes and then I had to wait for a few hours before surgery, so I asked for that medicine and it helps if you are nervous at all! Also talking with that Dr. about what he could do so I wouldn't feel nauseated when I woke up really helped. If you have had past surgeries, let that Dr. know and if you haven't had any problems with anesthesia that's great and you won't have to!

    I went home the same day, which was awesome. I only needed to take Ibuprofen, but ask for something else just in case. No use getting home and being in pain.

    What helped me the most was the prayers of many people, so don't know if you would like that, but if you have a prayer line, nice to get on it and I will be praying for you. That is what lifted me up and gave me so much hope and strength in all of this!!

    Hope that helps and I'll be thinking of you. I am 50 and have an 18 and 11 year old and a husband and this has been a bit harder on them than it has on me!

    Thanks, Teppers
    I am really nervous about what to expect during the surgery day. Wouldn't you know I woke up today with the worst sore throat I've had in 20 years, and now I have a fever too. Nine days away from surgery. Luckily, I went to the doctor last night because I felt like I have bronchitis starting. I started an antibiotic today. I don't know what I'll do if I have to put the surgery off. I think I will have a nervous breakdown if I have to wait any longer. Anyone else get sick BEFORE their surgery? Is it just from being worn-out and nervous? Or just my wonderful luck? (It's probably the SAME luck that I had when the radiologist said there was about a 25% chance the spot they biopsied was cancer. Hmm...)
  • Teppers
    Teppers Member Posts: 17
    #20
    JuJuBeez said:

    Thanks, Teppers
    I am really nervous about what to expect during the surgery day. Wouldn't you know I woke up today with the worst sore throat I've had in 20 years, and now I have a fever too. Nine days away from surgery. Luckily, I went to the doctor last night because I felt like I have bronchitis starting. I started an antibiotic today. I don't know what I'll do if I have to put the surgery off. I think I will have a nervous breakdown if I have to wait any longer. Anyone else get sick BEFORE their surgery? Is it just from being worn-out and nervous? Or just my wonderful luck? (It's probably the SAME luck that I had when the radiologist said there was about a 25% chance the spot they biopsied was cancer. Hmm...)

    I was also worried that I
    I was also worried that I would be sick before surgery and not get to have it on time as I just wanted to get it over with! Both my kids had sore throats and colds. I didn't thankfully get sick.

    With the meds they gave you, that should clear it up before surgery.

    My surgery was scheduled fairly early in the morning, but I think I told you they had to inject the sentinel nodes and massage it and then I had to wait a few hours for that small amount of radiation to settle and then surgery. Surgery was a few hours and they took the sentinel node out and checked it for cancer during surgery and it was clear so they only took that one out.

    I had just had surgery in the fall to remove my uterus from a large fibroid and this surgery was much easier and less painful than that one, but I was told I could same some medicine to relax before surgery and that was great' it didn't make me sleep, but just calm down and the aenesthesiologist (sp?) can tell you what's right for you if you choose that optino. After that, it went much easier and before I knew it I was out of surgery.
  • Teppers
    Teppers Member Posts: 17
    #21
    KayNYC said:

    Fairly new too
    Hi JUJUBeez,
    I was also diagnosed with IDC of the Left breast early in March 2010.I had a Lumpectomy and Sentinal node excision on March 17, 2010. The Seroma that occurred after my surgery is just clearing up and I have been back at work since 3/31. I have my first Medical Oncologist meeting next Thurs and one week later, the Radiation Oncologist appointment.
    Things went very quickly once I was diagnosed. With all the arrangements necessary for finding coverage for my clients and preparing for the two weeks off from work, I didn't have much chance to feel many emotions. Numbness and generally operating on "autopilot" were my primary emotional modes
    The pathology reported evidenced a very small CA of 3mm with clean nodes (they removed six) and clear margins. Prior to surgery, I ate well, was mindful of getting adequate sleep, began journaling my Cancer journey and made contact with old and new friends who were very supportive before and after my surgery. I also purchased several soft Sports bras that ware suggested to provide suppport and compression in the post operative period.
    Before and after surgery, I read everything I could get my hands on about breast cancer and treatment. For me, it was helpful to be armed with all of the information. It helped alleviate anxiety and helped me ask questions in my meeting with the surgeon and the various other treatment team members.
    Being diagnosed with Cancer has given me a new perspective on my life and I am trying to make every day the best it can be. I find myself more often than not, not sweating the small stuff and not getting "stuck' or "clinging to" painful emotions. I am certainly, a "work in progress" in the "letting distress go and "accepting what is " department. Awaiting part two of my journey (radiation). I'm about one third of the way there....
    Wishing you all the best. Keep in touch. The Pink Warriors on this site are wonderful. Welcome.
    K

    This sounds just like a lot
    This sounds just like a lot of the things I went though, too.

    I love all your positives! Everything seems so wonderful knowing they got my cancer tumor out. I've always loved life, but even more and so appreciative of everything!!!

    I meet one radiology doctor on Tuesday and another on Friday and not sure what to expect from either one. My surgeon said no one ever listens to her, but recommended taking 2 weeks off for recovery, so I did. I teach First Grade and very taxing physically in the first place, so I really want to be rested and ready when I start radiation. Some of the comments got me worried, so I decided to quit reading them and wait until I actually start myself and just read what it says about radiation on this site and then arm myself with that to ask the doctor questions when I go.

    Thanks, everyone, for all the comments. It's so incredible to be able to share with people that are going through the same thing and understand.

    I am thinking about and praying for all of you!!!

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