At the beginning of this journey, I fully intended on frequent updates and blog posts to help with not only informing my friends and family but to to document this process for my own memory or for the sake of others going through it. I'm realizing now, that all went out the window at the half way point! So let me give you a quick update:
- August through now has been a whirlwind! We took a few trips to the beach, Leona boogey boarded her heart out and we loved every second of it!
- I have completed all nine of my chemotherapy treatments! (I got to ring the bell for this accomplishment!)
- I have a date for surgery!
Ringing the bell-
I was debating whether or not to share my feelings on this because I really do try to keep it positive when I can, but the reality is: there is still so much waiting in the unknown. I am currently preparing for my bilateral mastectomy. During this procedure they will send my breast tissue and lymph nodes for testing to see if there is any lingering invasive cancer cells. I should know these results about a week or two after my surgery. If there is no cancer I continue with my immunotherapy infusions for about 3 more months. If there is cancer detected I start a different type of chemotherapy for a year.
I was hesitant to ring the bell at this current stage because there is the possibility of more treatment ahead of me.
Ultimately I decided that this stage needed to be acknowledged and celebrated! It has been 10 months and 9 rounds of 5-8 hr chemotherapy sessions. I have sat in that chair for over 100 hrs, freezing down to my bones. I have been committed to prioritizing mental health and positivity through it all. By ringing the bell I got to acknowledge the hard work I have put in to beat cancer. I also wanted to celebrate my family and friends who have supported me through these last 10 months.
My mom- Always willing to drop by at any moment. Bringing treats and fruits almost every time she comes by. Taking my daughter to and from school, for overnights or just time out of the house so I can heal.
My daughter- Being so incredibly mature for only 5 years old. The most curious, courageous and thoughtful girl I could have wished for. You have shown me such love and patience through this all.
My husband- My biggest advocate. You are always there to listen and help however I need you to. You know me and you never fail to put my needs first. From the first scary moment to ringing the bell you have been by my side and I love you more and more.
These three were right by me to ring the bell. I rang the bell for them. I rang the bell to dog-ear this moment and to be proud of the growth we have made together. This was a win and I am so happy to be here to celebrate.
Next phase:
As I wait for surgery, I will be receiving immunotherapy every 3 weeks. This means I will still be at the cancer center for infusions, but they will be much shorter and I will not be scalp cooling! This will feel like a little vacation from my previous visits.
As for surgery: I am feeling excited and nervous. I will be having a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction. As my surgeon explained they will basically be carving out my breast tissue like carving a pumpkin. They will be leaving the skin and my nipples and place expanders in to hold place for an implant in the future.
Then once the pathology comes back we move forward with a treatment plan.
Cancer has been the ultimate test of patience. I am moving through this knowing that these years will soon be behind me and cancer will not be the first thing I think of when I wake up in the morning. I'm looking forward to the time when I can "forget" I had cancer at all. In the meantime this is my reality and I am trying to live through it with as much normalcy as I can.
I have been on a mission to find the best resources and non profits for breast cancer patients. I will be compiling this list to share with you all in hopes you can pass it along to someone in need.
Some exciting news that I will be able to share more on soon: I was interviewed by a local publication on the topic of scalp cooling and we even did a little photoshoot! I'm excited to share when I can! Thank you to everyone that has reached out and checked on me during this time! Your support really means so much. I love you all!
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