Reconstruction
Journeys End
Now that my treatment and reconstruction surgeries are over, my journey with breast cancer has come to an end. I have enjoyed sharing my stories with you, but now it is time for me to focus forward. I have already started traveling again and resumed my work schedule....
Serial Numbers
I had an appointment with my dentist today to take the final impressions for my dental implant. As the dentist checked everything out and the hygienist prepared the gooey substance to form the impression, I asked the dentist if my implant had a number engraved on it....
Big Bang!
My sister and brother-in-law came to visit and supposedly to celebrate the end of reconstruction. Personally, I think they just wanted to blow some things up. After three surgeries, 12 weeks of restrictions, seven JP drains, and enough scars to form a patchwork quilt,...
The Empathy Factor
I have read that dogs have the uncanny ability to sense their owner's emotions and needs. There was even a recent news story about one dog's ability to predict seizers in its owner. I am certain that our last dog, Dolly Dog knew that I was unwell and she slept next to...
The Finish Line
My final reconstruction surgery is scheduled for Friday and I'm rather looking forward to it. It is as though I can see the finish line and can't wait to cross it. I have crossed off so many goals and milestones in my journey with cancer, but the big goal -- finishing...
Emergency Underwear
My son, Steven, flew in to stay with me for ten days following my great escape from the hospital. He was in charge of my pain medications and driving me to and from hyperbaric treatments and doctors appointments. Since I was restricted from using both arms, he was...
Latissimus Dorsi Surgery
Before I get into my recovery stories, I thought I would do a quick explanation of the type of reconstruction surgery that I had. Because of the radiation damage to my skin and chest muscle area, the only option for reconstruction on my right side was a Latissimus...
Out of Surgery
Hi Everyone, Just wanted to send out an update that Mom is out of surgery and doing well. She will be in recovery for a little while, and then will be staying at the hospital for the next few days for some much-deserved rest. Thank you all for your prayers and...
Chicken Wings
I had my one month post op, follow-up appointment with my doctor today and he lifted my restrictions. I feel like a free woman. For the past month, I have had limited movement of my arm. I could not move it more than 45 degrees or lift anything more than 10 pounds....
The Decision
When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, I had to make a lot of decisions about my treatment in a short amount of time. I was understandably frightened, nervous, uncertain, and worried as I worked my way through half a dozen doctor's appointments and listened to...
The posts on this page were added at the request of several of my readers who wanted “the fun stories to continue.” Some are dedicated to a friend in her last weeks of life. These posts are a mix of travel adventures and random experiences and are in date order with the newest post on top.
Help Support Breast Cancer Patients
All proceeds from book sales are donated to two local non-profit funds to help breast cancer patients afford diagnosis and care. Virginia Gay Hospital Gifts of Hope provides free mammograms and diagnostic services and is supported by the Benton County Survivors Group; and the Hall-Perrine Hope Fund helps cancer patients pay for emergency needs.