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Any October 2011 Surgeries out there want to wait together?

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Comments

  • ginger48
    ginger48 Member Posts: 1,437
    edited November 2011

    Sometimes I think the doctors are crazy! To think that 3 weeks is enough recovery time from MX for you to go back to work? I was no where near ready at that point. Your body is still healing. Try to take it easy whenever you can...

    That is definitely a lesson that BC has taught me. To pay attention to my body and not push it further than I am comfortable with. I feel like I used to do that all the time. Now I am taking things slowly and letting myself heal. I think we pay better attention to our cars than we do to our bodies.When the gas light goes on; we fill it up. Our bodies are always running on empty and we never seem to stop to fill back up. (or we feel guilty when we do)

  • Kim137
    Kim137 Member Posts: 105
    edited November 2011

    I'm so behind in posts and how everyone is doing. The past week has been insane!!! I hope everyone is doing well. I am 3 weeks and 3 days post op. I finally broke down and cried for the first time and haven't stopped since. I met with my oncologist Wednesday & although my surgeon told me no rads, no chemo the oncologist wants to do chemo- A&C, followed by Taxol and herceptin. I thought the mastectomy would "cure" me of DCIS, but she is determined that the sentinel node that was positive is a true mestatsis and ot just displaced cells. She said with my age (31) we just shouldn't risk it. My surgeon told me he can find 100 studies and another oncologist that will tell me I'm done! Cancer free! No treatment needed! But he also told me if I was his sister he would tell me to do the chemo and win the war because if there was a micro invasion that the pathologist didn't catch I'd be fighting a full fledge battle in a couple years.......I'm at a loss of words. Shocked, numb, scared....that about sums it up :-(

  • Maria_Malta
    Maria_Malta Member Posts: 667
    edited November 2011

    Kim, like a number of us on this thread, you've found that you are probably going to have a lot more treatment than you expected.... not at all surprising that you are at a loss for words... give yourself time to work through this and then take stock and review your options.  Noone can make your     decision for you... but interesting what the surgeon said about what he would advise his sister to do. Having had chemo all I can say is it's a long process, sometimes tough, very tireing, but DOABLE as so many women on these boards can testify.  LIke surgery itself, everyone has their own individual response to it, but we all came through and recovered from it. GOOD LUCK!

    Hello CLC, if I remember you're a teacher, aren't you?  I can't believe you are back to full-time teaching already..I'm a teacher too (15-18 year olds,) but was lucky enough to be only working part-time last year when diagnosed, so this year I was able to NOT teach but just do admin for the first semester,,,but I can't imagine teaching a full load less than 4 week after surgery...It's no wonder you're so tired at the end of the day...isn't there any way you could do less? 

  • Maria_Malta
    Maria_Malta Member Posts: 667
    edited November 2011
    gamergirl:  still thinking of you...let us know how things are with you when you can face it...no pressure!
  • ginger48
    ginger48 Member Posts: 1,437
    edited November 2011

    Kim- so sorry for the new decisions you are facing! You have lots of people here to support you.

    CLC- Hope you are feeling stronger each day. I went back to teaching after 2 months and ended up only being able to work 1/2 time with those stupid expanders keeping me from sleeping. Hang in there but cut back if you need to. School goes on even if we are not there for a while!

  • dancetrancer
    dancetrancer Member Posts: 2,461
    edited November 2011

    Oh Kim, I feel so for you!!!  I am in a similar position - thought I'd be done with tx after BMX for DCIS - but due to poor margins on both sides they are recommending BILATERAL rads. Frown  Like you, I have another surgeon and RO indicating I DON'T need the rads.    It is SO confusing and so awful being put in the position with conflicting recommendations.  I've done tons of research, but unfortunately the treatment for my situation is controversial, with no clear guidelines, and recommendations for treatment to be made "on a case by case basis".  I am going to get a third opinion, just to make myself feel better (hopefully, LOL).  

    Just wanted to share so that you wouldn't feel so alone with being surprised by needing more tx after DCIS.  It's so hard when you have your mind thinking you are pretty much done, but then freakin' cancer deals you another blow.  <HUGS>   

  • MargieC
    MargieC Member Posts: 302
    edited November 2011

    CLC - I went back to work last week (4 week 1 day post BMX).  Thankfully I went back mid week and only worked 3 days my first week.  It was tiring and this week I am trying to do a full 5 days.  As I have been told listen to your body and rest when you need it.  We do not have the stamina we had prior to surgery yet.

    Kim - There are so many variables and opinions when dealing with treatment opitions.  My recommendation  is take your time making your decision on treatment.  My 2nd opinion was in conflict with my BS and ONC treatment plan.  I went with the recommendation of my BS and ONC who I trust and I am happy I did.

    I hope everyone is healing and we all have a week of fewer complications and more comfort.

    Margie

  • annalive
    annalive Member Posts: 286
    edited November 2011

    At my PS visit this morning, he noted that the infected TE is looking better (after 3 days on antibiotics). I was so worried because it still looks pink to me and is tender, but he said it would look much worse if it was not responding. My drain is still putting out 50cc after 4 1/2 weeks, but he is keeping it in. I'll see my PS again on Thursday and hope for more progress on the TE and drain.

    I hope we all keep healing, and I am so amazed at those of you who manage to go back to work. I have a home editing business that I have set aside and may not return to until the whole process is finished -- rads, Herceptin and reconstruction. I feel I don't think clearly enough to stick with it and keep up with deadlines.

  • TexasRose2127
    TexasRose2127 Member Posts: 106
    edited November 2011

    GrandmaRose-  {{{HUGS}}} coming your way.  Believe that tomorrow will be a better day-  we are warriors and we will overcome & survive stronger than ever.

    Teel701-  I had my BMX on 10/15 with TE.  I developed a seroma under my left armpit.  I was not aware of it until last week.  I had a sonogram to ensure it was just a seroma.  My BS is not going to aspitate it. The radiologist said it will disipate on its own.  What info did you get from r doc? It makes me a little nervous since it is on my bc side & I had 6/10 positive nodes.

    KIM137-  I am with you sister.  {{{HUGS}}}-  My BMX was on 10/15 with TE's & I went in with the team believing that I did not have any positive nodes. I was most likely looking at an aromatese inhibor for 5 years.  I woke to the fact that I had 6/10 positive nodes.  I am now told by the onco that I need 8 dose dense chemo treatments (4 AC & 4 Taxol) & 7-8 weeks of rads.  To top it off I had my post-op visit with my ps said that I should have my TE expander exchange between chemo & rads.   Also shocked numb & scared!  We will fight like a girl and win this war even though these little battles that pop up are maddening.  {{{HUGS}}} coming your way

    Love & Hugs & Happiness

  • gamergirl
    gamergirl Member Posts: 53
    edited November 2011

    Hi Maria!  Thanks for asking about me.  I'm still here, sort of.  I seem to be having one of those "if it can go wrong, it will" experiences.  I had a massive allergic reaction to the chemo, so I'm still trying to recover from that.  And I'm still having issues with seroma's on both sides.  If it builds up too much again, they are going to put drains back in.  Bleh.  I'm just keeping peeps updated on my blog now, cause I don't seem to have much energy for anything else. (littlebitofcancer.blogspot.com) 

    So, I don't really post much.  I'm just taking everything day by day now.   I am so pleased that so many are recovering well and getting back to life.  I'll join ya'll there soon, but for now, I'm just sort of on the sidelines cheering ya on!

  • ginger48
    ginger48 Member Posts: 1,437
    edited November 2011

    gamergirl- so sorry to hear you are still having trouble. Thanks for creating this thread which has been a lifeline for so many of us. I will follow your progress in your blog and be thinking of you and sending positive energy for healing your way!

  • rachelvk
    rachelvk Member Posts: 564
    edited November 2011

    Good morning ladies. I'm starting to feel like a kid in the back seat of a car... "Are we there yet...?" Today will also be my first day completely by myself - my BF headed to work and will head back to his apartment tonight; my mom doesn't come back until tomorrow. I should be okay, but it's a little daunting. Even over the weekend when I was alone, someone was going to be back within a few hours. I'm tired of being achy, and of the pain when I reach up too far with my right arm to try to get something or put something away. I think I may have some extra puffiness on my left side, where they removed the drain. Hoping it's not buildup.

    I've been trying to catch up on everyone. Here goes...

    Kim - Learning that it's not over yet is probably one of the worst parts about breast cancer. I'm sorry you may have to go through chemo. In my case, I was glad because I know it's the only thing to really ensure that any microinvasions are wiped out. But it doesn't mean I'm looking forward to chemo. I'd guess we'll be going through chemo the same time, so let's stay in touch.

    Ann - I hope the infection clears up and you finally get those drains out.

    Gamergirl - Hang in there, girl!! I'll check out your blog. I hope they're able to get you past this allergic reaction and seromas soon.

    Kellyod - I can't help with a bra, although the walmart bra (fruit of the loom) is good for both sides and you might be able to make it work in your case. I realize the fire makes it difficult to take it easy, but pace yourself. Any way you could call in some friends to help?

    Cookiemonster - Definitely take some time before hand. Glad you're getting comfortable with your choice. Even if you join another 'surgery of the month' club, keep us posted as you make your way through that part. 

    Maria_malta - Thanks for the tips on the wigs! Red is definintely in my future!

    Denise - Yay for no pathology surprises. That is such a relief to get that call. 

    GrandmaRose - So sorry to hear about the clot! Good luck on that part of your recovery.

    Teel - Welcome officially to our group. Thanks for introducing yourself. We'll do what we can to help you through this.

    Margie - Good news to hear about work, even if it's more exhausting than you thought. I'm trying to figure out how to pace myself when I go back. I've already staked out my 'nap' space and my boss is fine with that. Glad that exercise helped. Walking does make a difference.

    CLC - You're right - we shouldn't push it too much, though I know how hard it is.

    AJ - Good luck with your fill! I'm right behind you on Wednesday. 

    My thoughts are with everyone. 

  • Kelleyod
    Kelleyod Member Posts: 125
    edited November 2011

    Kim!   I am numb hearing your news. . . I will echo what someone else said that struck me in your post:  Your surgeon told you what he'd / she'd recommend for their little sister to do . . .that speaks volumes.   Listen to your heart, your gut.  

     Annalive- I am hoping you just dry up this week!   DRY - bone dry!

    Gamergirl - so nice to see your name.  You are so in prayers and thoughts . . .keep taking those steps . . .day at a time. I will check out your blog . . . 

    Teel - welcome!   I can speak to TE pain with a massive first fill - I have done a lot of deep breathing and stretching (as best as I can) which seems to help in the long run.   I do still have some discomfort when sitting up after reclining (I think Margie asked on that one) and the TE seems to take a moment to "adjust"  . . .I understand that is because it's not sutured down.   Ibuprofen is my friend.  :)

    Rachelvk - I hope your first solo day went well - be careful and easy!    Let us know how that fill goes . . .

    GrandmaRose - so VERY sorry on the clot . . ugh . . .please take it easy . . . don't mess with that  . . .

    AJ - How did YOUR fill go?  

    Thinking of you all today . . . .  sending many hugs your way.   DH off on another biz trip - fire clean up still underway (unreal - may be out until 12/1) . . . daughter's surgery confirmed for 11/23 (soft tissue mass in her neck - above the clavicle but below the thyroid) . . .and oh yeah, trying not to do too much.  Pink spots not quite as evident  . . .still on search for perfect bra!  I'm thinking one of those "As Seen on TV Genie Bras"  (don't laugh - aren't they sexy?) 

    Naps are my friend. . . .    praying for our little group. . .

  • MargieC
    MargieC Member Posts: 302
    edited November 2011

    Kelleyrod and Teel  --  I am the one who mentioned TE pain when moving from a reclining position to sitting up.  I went back to sleeping in my snug bra (PS had told me a week ago I didn't need to anymore) and by doing it has cut the pain when sitting up in half.

    AJ - how did you fill go? 

    I have fill 3 tomorrow - hopefully I will only have 2 more after that and then the wait for exchange. --  Tonight I am going to teach my first Pilates class in 6 weeks.  I am really looking forward to see the ladies that come regularly to class.  Good thing is if I do feel I can do everything I have one person who recently went through training so she can step in if I need her.

    hope everyone had a relaxing day.

  • rachelvk
    rachelvk Member Posts: 564
    edited November 2011

    Margie - Interesting comment on TE pain and the bra. I've been staying in the sports bra non-stop, mainly because I feel it's the safest way to keep the drain sutures in place, so maybe that's help keep the TEs in place. The past two days I've found I have some of the most vicelike pressure when I first get out to take a walk - I'm wondering if it's because I'm squirming around to get into my jacket and things get jostled. I'm thankful that I don't have sharp pain, but I'm getting tired of feeling like I have the Terminator standing behind me copping a feel... Good luck with teaching. I'm sure seeing the women in the class will be a big mood booster.

  • Dukes_Up
    Dukes_Up Member Posts: 112
    edited November 2011

    Hello my Friends~

    Just enough time for a quick check-in tonight but I wanted to send hugs and love to each and every one of you.  

    I'm so sad to learn of so many cruel post-surgery pathology "surprises."   WTF!!!!  Makes me want to scream.  Just. not. right. 

    Kim~  I can't begin to imagine the stress involved in hearing so many different medical opinions.  I am so sorry that you have to make this decision.  You will be in my daily thoughts. 

    dancetrancer~ Sorry to know that radiation has been brought to the table.  Keep us updated on the third opinion.

    MargieC~ Hope your work day went smoothly.  Have fun at class tonight (love that you teach Pilates!!!) 

    Ann~ So glad that the antibiotics appear to be working!   Hope you'll be able to lose the drain soon! 

    Rose~ Very sorry to hear that you've had a change in diagnosis as well.  You keep fighting Girl!  I also hope that the seroma resolves itself soon. 

    gamergirl~ OMG I cannot believe what you have gone through.  I read your blog.... you've been such a trooper.  I really hope the excess fluid takes a hike and that you won't have to revisit the drains. 

    rachelvk~ Hope you're doing well on your first night solo.  Hope the puffiness subsides and that it won't interfere with your fill on Wednesday. 

    Kelley~ Gosh Girl... so sorry you're having to deal with the fire aftermath... UGH!  I'll be wishing the best for your daughter's surgery on the 23rd.  Sending some big deep breaths your way.  

    Not a lot to update here.  I thought I had a seroma developing but it appears to be resolving itself.  I'm hopeful that my PS will still do my first fill tomorrow morning. 

    Off to get my boy moving on his homework...

    Wishing restful sleep to you all tonight...  

    AJ

        

  • survivor11
    survivor11 Member Posts: 430
    edited November 2011

    Kellyod-can't imagine what your having to deal with with a fire cleanup. Make sure you don't overdo it, I know it's easy for us to do, but really in the long run, it only does us more damage. Thanks about the thyroid thing. Had a redraw today, will find out tom if I'm on the right dosage. Glad your pinkness is getting better with easing up on activity.

    CookieMonster-so what you don't have to do chemo. You've still been through a hellofalot. There really arent degrees of hell with this, we are all in this together no matter what our individual treatment plans. I did have to do chemo, but didn't consider myself less lucky than someone who didn't have to do it.  You have every right to every emotion your dealing with but I know it's hard when friends and family don't follow suit. Just be honest with them and let them know that just because you may appear done with treatment the longterm emotional effects are still there.

    grandmarose-a blood clot, holy crap. I swear at times it seems we take 1 step forward and 2 back. Glad to hear your home now, that does make a world of difference. Hang in there.

    Teel701-I remember the expander pain and unfortunantly due to an overreactive PS will have to go through it again when TE is reinserted. Hang in there and my only advice is to make friends with a hot shower and ice packs, good luck.

    Kim137-oh darling, just when we think we have a handle on what's next, they change up the plan. This really is your decision, but ask yourself...if it came back would I be able to live with the fact that I didn't do chemo? This may help when you think of the longterm. Chemo suck, no two ways about it, but it is doable and although right now it seems life it will last forever, it really will go by quicker than you realize. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I do know that most MO really recomment chemo for us younger women (I was 39 at diagnosis) because they figure we have alot of years left to live so they want to make sure that this is our only round with BC.

    Gamergirl-good to see you back, but so sorry to hear about your complications. I just got out of the hospital myself, so I know what you mean when you wonder what's next,. Hang in there love and know my thoughts and prayers are with you.

  • Judy67
    Judy67 Member Posts: 213
    edited November 2011

    Kim - so sorry to hear about your pathologist recommendations.  I've been told I probably won't need chemo also and I would find it really hard now to reverse and go back the other way.  My oncologist recommended the Oncotype DX test to help make the final determination and I'll find out my score this Wednesday.  I tend to agree with getting the chemo just in case, but I think we each can only make the best decisions we can for ourselves and we shouldn't second guess ourselves.  Whatever you decide I hope it all goes well.

    Kellyod- so sorry about the fire.  I've had the on and off again pink coloring too but it's been there for about a month now so PS sure it's not infection.  He said he thinks might be reaction to alloderm but not sure.  I had a bmx and not an mx but I find sports bras the best so far.  The stretchy ones you pull over your head. 

    gamergirl - I am so sorry to hear about your setbacks and I hope it all turns around for you soon.  Thanks again for starting this thread.  It has been a lifeline.

    Started back to work today.  It was good to get back to some sort of normalcy.  I really missed it.

    Hope everyone is doing well with recovery. Judy

  • Teel701
    Teel701 Member Posts: 3
    edited November 2011

    Thank you all for responding to my post..and I give you all credit for keeping up with everyone in this group.  I will apologize in advance if I don't address everyone here at the same time. I'll blame it on my blonde hair! ;)

    TexasRose - I have only spoken to the nurses at my PS office and they don't seem too concerned about my claim of fluid build up. They told me to just put on a support bra for compression that should help my body absorb it.  They don't believe in apirating it unless it's by the fill up port.  Who knows.  I go in for my second fill on Friday, so I will bring it up again and see what they say.

    Rachelvk - I feel the same way you do..."are we there yet". Although I'm only 3.5 weeks out of surgery, I just want my life back. I'm not one to sit and relax. I"m always moving. You'll be fine alone...it'll make you push yourself a bit more and stretch those muscles.  I thought when my husband went back to work this week I wouldn't survive, but all is fine and I just move slowly.  I also understand your tightness, but you know what, if the Terminator wanted a feel, I think I wouldn't mind it. ;)

    Kellyod - advil has been my friend as well.  I'm also thinking that my TE's are moving, which is a bit scary. I keep thinking one of them is going to pop out from under the muscle.  Just wish I had a picture of what everything looks like inside.

     MargieC - I actually slept in a support bra last night and what a difference when sitting up. I too didn't have so much discomfort. I think I'll be keeping it on from now on! 

    Everyone - prayers and smiley faces go out to all of you. Stay strong and try to do things that make you happy.  In time, we should all be able to move on with out lives. :)

  • MargieC
    MargieC Member Posts: 302
    edited November 2011

    Teel701 - I told my PS this morning when I was in about the pain when sitting up and that going back to sleeping in a sport bra has helped.  He hadn't heard of this before, but he told if sleeping in the bra helps then to keep doing it.  I got my 3rd fill today 80cc.  I now have around 260cc in each side.  He feels we have two more fills to get to where I wan to be.  I was a large A/small B and wanted to go a bit bigger large B/small C.  I am now filling out my old bras. I will be glad to have this part over with. 

    I am slowly getting back to a more normal life.  I went back to work last Wed (I have a desk job).  Then last night I taught my Pilates class.  I get tired and having been going to bed at 8pm, but getting back into a non-breast cancer routine is so nice.

    Sending healing thoughts out to everyone... Those of you facing chemo.  It is not pleasant, but I can tell you it will be over before you know it. (My chemo was May 13-Aug 29).  Each step we make in this journey is one step close to being done :)

  • AthabascanWarriorPrincess
    AthabascanWarriorPrincess Member Posts: 15
    edited November 2011

    Kim~ You're in my prayers

    Margie C~ We have so much in common, I feel like you're one of my sisters. (I LOVE Pilates!)

    Gamergirl~ Sorry to hear about the speed bump!

     I have moments where I just start crying. I almost had one of those tonight. Not sure why it stopped. I think reading these posts get my mind off me and get me praying for others. I had my first Radiogist appointment last Friday and just realized exactly one month from surgery. Okay, breaking down. I have heard "rollercoaster" more than once on this website. That's it!

    I was finally staged at my radiologist appt and tomorrow will be my first "dry run". I actually start rads at the end of the month after Thanksgiving. I was originally told with a MX I wouldn't need the rads and now find that I do need them. To top this off, I found another lump in the other breast.I will go into see my doctor as a walk-in tomorrow, one day at time.

    My surgery went extremely well on the 4th last month. Able to walk and move my arm within a day. Sleep went great ever since. Blessed to have made it through what couldn've been way worst, my prayers are with all of you and your recoveries. Sending lots of love to all of you and so very greatful to ride this ride with the strongest women I've ever met!

  • slgarcia05
    slgarcia05 Member Posts: 154
    edited November 2011

    Hi ladies.  Just checking in.  I hope everyone is hanging tough.  I drove for the first time in a month.  That was ccccrrrraaaazzzzzyyyyy!  Turning was uncomfortable....thankful for power steering though.  I went to the grocery store only a few blocks from my house.  I decided to park way out in the parking lot where I could just pull through a space and not have to back out.  I am glad I did that.  I got inside the store and started shopping when I realized I could not reach anything on the top shelves.  This thought never occured to me before hand.  But, through the kindness of strangers, I got my shopping done.  People in Omaha are so nice!  Kind of reminds me of how people are back home in Texas!  It still sucked to have to ask for help, but I guess in this "new" life, we must ask for help and never look back.  I hope you all feel better today, even if it is just a tiny bit.  I am feeling better every day.  It is hard to believe tomorrow is my 1 month anniversary since my surgery.  I am still recovering.  Whoever said I would be fine after 2-4 weeks was wrong.....I am still a long way from fine.  Oh well, I guess we all heal differently.  Stay strong my friends.  Sending out love and hugs to everyone!

  • deniseday
    deniseday Member Posts: 75
    edited November 2011

    I got my drains out yesterday, yay!!! and I read the pathology report for myself.  I know it's terrible, but I wouldn't believe that they got everything until I could read it for myself.  I'm still having a hard time relaxing with the whole "cancer" thing. 

    I'm glad I chose the one-step.  I'm healing nicely and I shouldn't need anymore surgeries.  I'm still pretty uncomfortable and still taking pain pills.  I slept in the bed last night with the help of a bunch of pillows.  I'm not having any arm problems.  I'm careful and not reaching too high or "straining" to get anything. 

    My thoughts and prayers are with all you still waiting.  I'm so thankful I found this site and I hope I can help other just as you all have helped me.

  • rachelvk
    rachelvk Member Posts: 564
    edited November 2011

    Margie - Glad to hear the fills are going well. It's encouraging to imagine that I might be able to use my old bras. I had sort of assumed they were all going to be useless (assuming I stick close to my previous size). And thanks for the encouragment about chemo. Yes, it will suck, but it might just save my life. I had a friend who has had a few brushes with cancer (not BC) ask why on earth I wanted chemo if my nodes were clear, and I had to try and explain triple negative to her. 

    Judy - Yay for normalcy!

    Teel - Thanks for the good thoughts.

    Athabascanwarrior - Congratulations on your one-month mark and your strong recovery, though I'm sorry to hear you may have to face more ahead. I hope the new lump turns out to be nothing.

    Shannon - Behind the wheel? You go girl!! There's a lot to be said for friendly people - and for the gift of learning how to ask for help. I like to think that when all this is behind me, that will stay with me - and the willingness to offer my help to others as well. Sending hugs and more healing thoughts your way. 

    I got rid of my second (and last) drain today! No more freaking out about accidentally pulling it out! And no more pinching. Also had a good PT session today - he's taking it really slow but thinks I've done a good job so far. No stomach sleeping until the TEs are out, but he said I could try sleeping on my side if it's comfortable. Probably not, but it might be an occasional break from my back, which is getting really annoying. Unfortunately, my next PS appointment isn't until the 21st - which will be my first fill, so it looks like my fills will overlap with my early chemo rounds. Maybe I can stagger them.

    Wishing everyone a good night. If you like stargazing - Jupiter is rising right next to the full moon tonight, and it's a really neat sight. (Not sure how visible that is outside the Northeast) 

  • CLC
    CLC Member Posts: 615
    edited November 2011

    Thank you all for your words of support on my return to work.  I am managing to get through the days, but could use a lot more rest. 

    Shannon...congrats on your first drive!  I found maneuvering around a parking lot tough at first, and I had a umx only...so I can only imagine the challenge.  I am glad you got out and did something not related to bc.  It is so nice to do "normal" things...even if they are partly in the "new normal"...:)

    Rachelvk and Deniseday...Yeah on the drains!!!  That is such a nice step after surgery:)

    Margie...yeah on going back to teaching pilates...I hope that it went well...:)

    AthabascanWarriorPrincess...good luck on the appointment...yes, one day at a time is all you can do some days...

    I hope that everyone is hanging in there okay... 

  • CookieMonster
    CookieMonster Member Posts: 90
    edited November 2011

    Well, so much progress in this little time. I don't know how you all keep up with everyone. I can barely keep up with myself, my DS, my DH, and my job, I'm trying to read, but the brain seems to contain only so much.

    AthabascanWarriorPrincess: I've had three lumpectomies all with dirty margins (DCIS), so now I'm going to have a MX. I have been told that the likelihood of needing rads after MX is low, but I keep joking that since I'm the queen of dirty margins, I won't be too surprised to find that they come back dirty agian and I need rads after MX. So my heart goes out to you, I hope the rads are easy compared to all the stuff leading up to it.

    Here's my update:

    We met the PS yesterday (got auth. on Fri. called Mon. and he somehow managed to find a way to see me on Tues.). He laid out the options, then took a look at my breasts and stomach and said I was the perfect candidate for DIEP. (I wasn't sure if I should be insulted or not - ha ha) Having done my research, DIEP was my choice if I had a choice. So no complaints there. He has a very high success rate with DIEP and only very rarely has to turn a DIEP into a muscle sparing free TRAM surgery. I'll be having a unilateral MX with DIEP on the right side at UCLA.

    He measured a few things about my breasts and took some pre-photos. He and my BS had tentatively set aside Dec. 15 for the surgery, pending my approval and insurance authorization. That date sounds good to me so we've essentially booked it, pending the insurance approval, of course.

    I'm nervous about it all, having NEVER undergone anything like this. I'm nervous about being under for so many hours, about the pain and other trauma to follow, etc... But I am glad to be getting to have the type of surgery that I want.

    I e-mailed my BS to keep her in the loop today and asked about deciding on breast size and who should help with that. Turns out I should have probably been more direct with the PS about my questions about it. I'm not an expert and I don't want to do anything that won't look good on my frame. I'm 5'1" and wasn't sure what size the reconstruction should be. She answered some other questions and forwarded my e-mail on to the PS who called this evening to answer my questions. I'm more comfortable and happier now that we've talked. I'm going from a G cup to  C cup, so I'll be unbalanced for a little while between stages 1 and 2, but will get the left side reduced to match in stage 2.

    I think I've probably babbled on long enough at you guys tonight, I'm having trouble focusing on much today, but should probably at least TRY to go get some quizzes graded or something. I may have some questions about my upcoming MX and this seems like a great place to ge them answered, so many of you having just been through MX surgery.

    Actually if you've read this far and have had DIEP or TRAM or similar surgery, how long was your recovery? I guess it's soon to ask for some of you, but the BS said 6-8 weeks, the PS said 4 weeks. I'm thinking of telling work 6 weeks (2 of which will be winter break) so only 4 weeks of school missed. I teach high school so I won't be having to physically interact with the kids on much, but it's still an active job, on my feet etc...

    TIA!

  • survivor11
    survivor11 Member Posts: 430
    edited November 2011

    rachelvk-I did my fills during my chemo, we just had the fill done on the date furthest away from my last chemo, but before my next one. So glad to hear your last drain is out-I know how much better that makes your feel.

    Shannon-good for you being behind the wheel, freedom does make one feel less sick.

    CookieMonster-good luck with your upcoming surgery.

  • Judy67
    Judy67 Member Posts: 213
    edited November 2011

    Totally bummed yesterday as my Oncotype DX score came back a 43.  Which means after being told I would probably not need chemo since it was caught so small, I am now in for 6 treatments and a year of Herceptin treatments.  I know I'll get through it as I have read the posts of many of you strong women who have made it through. I just hope I can come through as bravely as you guys have.  Have to admit, chemo scares me more than the Mascetomy ever did.

  • ginger48
    ginger48 Member Posts: 1,437
    edited November 2011

    Judy- so sorry to hear your news. I can't believe how many times this has happened to our October sisters.Sending hugs youir way!  Hang in there...

  • MargieC
    MargieC Member Posts: 302
    edited November 2011

    Rachelvk --  Glad that last drain is out.  Having it gone will make you feel so much better.

    Cookiemonster --  sorry you are going to have to have more surgery, but glad you are able to have DIEP like you want.

    Shannon - yea on getting out and driving.  I agree the people in Omaha are so nice (I work for a company based out of Omaha and travel there a couple of times a year).

    Judy - sorry you have to have chemo and herceptin.  I too had to have chemo and herceptin, but I got through it and it is already becoming a distant memory (I'm 9 weeks post chemo).  You will get through it.

    CLC - take it easy being back to work.  I went back last Wed and this week is my first full week and it is tiring.

    update on me.  Tues I had my 3rd fill.  My PS had not put a lot in during surgery and then my first 2 fills mainly inflated the TE.  The 3rd fill is the first to really start the stretching process and wow it is uncomfortable.  I have ended up back in the recliner and taking muscle relaxer.  I just keep telling myself that this is just a bump in the road and soon I will have these TE out and have my permanent implants.

    Sending gentle hugs to everyone...