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Breast Cancer Surgery Day

Preparing for the Journey: My Breast Cancer Surgery Day

Today is my breast cancer surgery day. For me, that means a lumpectomy, sentinel node check, and port placement procedure.  It’s a significant milestone that will reshape my life (and maybe my breast) forever, leaving both physical and emotional scars.

Nervous Anticipation: Embracing the Unknown

As someone who has experiences surgeries before, including a C-section, I still find myself filled with nervous anticipation for this particular procedure. I barely slept last night with countless questions and uncertainties flooding my mind.

Questioning the Future: Overcoming Anxieties

Will they discover cancer cells in the sentinel nodes? Is it possible that the cancer has metastasized? These concerns weighed heavily on my mind and I contemplated the path that lied ahead.

The Road to Recovery: Planning for the Future

Recovery looms before me, and I wonder about how long it’ll take to regain my strength. I meticulously planned the tasks that needed to be accomplished before starting chemotherapy. Questions about the timing of chemo sessions, the need for radiation therapy, and the preparation for potential hair loss swirl in my thoughts.

Easing the Worries: Finding Strength in Laughter

Amidst these swirling concerns, I remind myself to take a deep breath. It is crucial to address these worries and prepare for the journey that lies ahead, but it is equally important to find moments of respite and laughter. And if you’ve read my other blog posts, you know that I try to bring in humor every chance I get!

Facing the Operating Room: Embracing Induced Rest

Breast cancer surgery has arrived and although restlessness plagued me last night, I am ready to face the operating room. As I sit here, awaiting anesthesia, a sense of solace washes over me, knowing that I will be asleep throughout the procedure. The prospect of uninterrupted rest, even if induced by medication, brings a curious sense of anticipation. You moms out there will relate to this sentiment all too well!

Returning from the Journey: Surprising Ease

Well, it’s done. I can confidently affirm that the experience surpassed my expectations. Soreness permeates my body, particularly in the left arm, the site of the lumpectomy and lymph node removal. However, overall, I surprisingly feel well.

Unveiling Curiosities: A Glimpse into the Breast Cancer Community

During my time at the hospital, I discovered that two women were scheduled for surgery before me. The nurse informed me that they tested negative for the BRCA gene but had a family history of breast cancer. This revelation intrigues me, suggesting that breast cancer genetics may be more complex than currently understood. The more I learn about breast cancer, the more I find out that there’s more to be understood, which is unsettling. I want them to know how and why we’re getting breast cancer!

A Transformative Journey: Focusing on the Next Steps

Breast cancer surgery day serves as the initiation of a transformative journey. Reflecting on my own experience, I encourage you, whether you have undergone surgery or await it, to direct your attention to the next steps. What lies ahead? Will your treatment plan include chemotherapy or radiation? It is crucial to prioritize self-care during this time, including planning nourishing meals for yourself and your loved ones.

Strength in Unity: Embracing Support and Determination

Remember, overwhelming yourself with simultaneous worries can be burdensome. Place your trust in your medical team and have faith in your resilience. Seek solace in sharing your experiences and finding support from those who understand. Together, we can navigate the challenges of breast cancer with strength, humor, and unwavering determination.

Sharing Experiences: Your Breast Cancer Surgery Day

How was your breast cancer surgery day? Or are you still awaiting this milestone in your journey?