Well, it's been almost four weeks since my surgery. What a learning experience this has been...and what an emotional roller coaster.
The surgery went good, there were no surprises except for more lingering activity in the lymph nodes than expected. The doctor removed 23 and there was disease in 15. My oncologist said looking at the report that the activity was reduced from my original pathology report, so that was good although we'd hoped it would all be gone. (The original tumor had shrunk from very large to less than pea sized!!) Consequently, I'll start back on Herceptin this week rather than waiting until finished with radiation which I don't start for a few more weeks (I have to be completely healed from surgery)
In the process, this is my week of scans: one on my heart and a PET scan which of course covers the entire body looking for signs of disease. This scan is the best when you get good news, but makes me a nervous wreck until then. My doctor said she would be shocked if it showed anything at all........let's hope and pray that she's correct!
Post surgery I had to deal with drainage tubes longer than anyone on record, I think.....YUCK....now she just pokes me with a needle and drains if necessary....more yuck!
Emotionally this phase is very hard. I've been fortunate to reconnect via Facebook with a high school friend who has been through this and fully understands my fears, worries, etc....her empathy is sooooo helpful!
And, my mom and I enjoyed a few days of shopping for prosthesis(sp?).....Quite a learning experience! But we found them so I'm good to go on that count. And, my hair is slowly growing back............I have two more weeks of leave from work.
As always I am eternally thankful for well wishes from friends and family. And I pray for those people who have to go through this without them..........I can't imagine!
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