1/3/2013

Happy New Year Everyone! Even though 2012 was challenging, I definitely feel it was a very good and lucky year for me. I found my lump, was diagnosed, and able to start treatment. I can't even imagine where I would be if I hadn't gone to the doctor when I did. However, I am ready to ring in 2013 and keep moving forward. I had my last chemo yesterday and I am back at the clinic today getting a Neulasta shot and some fluids. It feels so good to be done! I know in the next few weeks I will deal with the side effects, but to know that I don't have to do it all over again is awesome! I will still need to come back every three weeks for Herceptin, but it doesn't have the side effects of the other drugs and I am sooo looking forward to growing some hair.

I saw Dr. Jones, my plastic surgeon, on Monday. Things are looking good with the incisions. I am stitches-free! He removed the stitches and I was able to get another fill on both sides. I will have my last fill on Jan 18th before I begin radiation. I am hopeful that this will be it with the incisions, no more issues! Fingers crossed!

Also we met with Dr, Khater, my radiation oncologist, yesterday. I will go in for mapping and a scan on Jan 22. On Jan 25 I will have practice run and then I will begin the six weeks of radiation on Monday Jan 28th. Dr. Khater is so great and the primary rad tech is a women named Angel, who is a breast cancer survivor, so even though I have some nervousness about radiation, not really sure what to expect, I know I am in good hands.

I just want to thank everyone again for all the support. I truly feel surrounded by love and kindness from all over. I really feel lucky. I know there are people going to chemo and dealing with cancer and other illnesses and doing it by themselves and I can't even imagine how tough that must be. I have always felt all of the prayers, positive thoughts, acts of kindness and love. It has been an incredibly important part for me in getting through all of this and staying strong and focused. I am forever grateful. And I know I will continue to have support and love as I continue on to the next steps, thank you.

I also want to give a quick shout out to Tony, my parents, and my in laws. They have been so amazing, helpful, and there for me every step of the way. They are awesome.