If you're not caught up with my story, click HERE to read all about it.
Thursday I received the results of my genetic test. Long story short, I don't carry the genes which would make Breast Cancer likely to occur again. I will be having a Lumpectomy with a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy. Along with taking the mass out of my right breast, a few of the lymph nodes in my right armpit will also be removed. The mass and lymph nodes will be looked at by pathology to help determine if the cancer has metastasized, or spread, to other parts of my body. This will determine which type of cancer treatment I will need: radiation or chemotherapy.
I was hoping that my surgery could wait until mid April when I would have Spring break. After talking with my doctor today, she feels that I shouldn't wait that long. When I asked her when I should have the surgery, she said, "How about next Thursday?" My mind started spinning. Today is February 28th. I will be having surgery next Thursday, March 10th! I didn't think it would be that quick. I'm really happy that I've already started buying the things that I will need!
I have been watching A LOT of videos on YouTube all about the surgery I'm going to have, and breast cancer in general. You can actually find videos of an actual Lumpectomy. I've never watched a video of a surgery I was going to have prior to the actual surgery. I watched one the other day. I couldn't finish the video....it was just nasty, and made me squirm! I don't recommend watching videos of surgeries you're going to have; wait until they're done!
I've read that sleeping can be a problem for a while. Laying flat is discouraged, for obvious reasons. Luckily, not only do we have a reclining couch, but a bed that is adjustable. Thanks to these, I won't need to purchase a "wedge" type bed pillow. Saving money is always great, especially when you see all the other things I will need!
In my research I have read that they make pillows to be used during a Lumpectomy recovery. Keeping my arm separated from my side will be important, and I will need extra support since my armpit will also be in pain. These pillows are made to help aide this process. They have a pocket in the front where you can put an ice pack, and there is an adjustable strap on the pillow to help keep it in place. I have already purchased the pillow on the left. Not only will it be used in the house, but it will help definitely provide cushion from the seatbelt whenever I'm in the car; especially on the ride home.
I will not be able to move my right arm very well for a while, so the clothing I wear will need to be different. During recovery, a very soft, but supportive front closing bra is the only way to go. For the first 7 - 10 days, I will need to wear a bra 24/7...yuck. Through my research I have found a company that makes bras specifically for this purpose. The company is called anaono and they have many garments to choose from.
Another article of clothing I will need is a lot of button down shirts. I won't be able to lift my arm up and over my head, especially if I have a drain attached, so shirts like these will be crucial for my recovery and comfort. I never thought that finding casual button down shirts would be difficult, but it has been quite a challenge! I've found that pajama tops are the only shirts that are both button up and casual enough that I won't mind getting them dirty.
I'm now busy making substitute lesson plans, and getting all of my grading completed. The week I come back will be the last week of the quarter, so getting grades ready will be the focus.
You are so on top of things! You should be looked to as a lighthouse to others with breast cancer so they can know what types of supplies and resources they need to be as comfortable as possible during recovery. You've definitely got the right mindset. I'm amazed and inspired by your example. 💪🏻💓🙏🏻🧭⛲
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