Surgery

Surgery happened on March 16 and it was an emotional rollercoaster. In the days leading up to it, my labs showed that I was anemic, so I had to go back in for repeat blood work to make sure everything improved before surgery. As if that was not stressful enough, the worst snowstorm of the entire season arrived the night before. I truly did not know if surgery would even happen. 

This surgery was a big deal for me and for my medical team. Two surgeons were involved since I was having a double mastectomy with reconstruction. My surgeon even called the day before to ask if I thought I would be able to make it. I told her I was hoping to. When I asked what would happen if I could not get there, she explained that they would make every effort to reschedule as soon as possible, but coordinating two surgeons is not simple. 

Thankfully we made the treacherous drive and lived to tell about it. Jason and I left very early and arrived with plenty of time. My parents came and my sister was there as well. I chose to come home the same day. I could have stayed overnight, but I knew I would rest better at home and rest is what helps you heal. My doctor encouraged that choice too. My parents took Remy home with them for the week, which was a huge help.

The surgery itself went well. It lasted about four and a half hours. Later, my surgeon called to share the pathology results. The chemo did its job and shrunk the tumor, but there was still a small area of active cancer cells remaining. The good news is that they were able to remove everything and the borders were clear. Hearing that brought a mix of relief and gratitude.

Now begins a new phase with weekly trips to Wausau (just under an hour drive one way) to plastic surgery for the foreseeable future. It is another long road, but one step at a time is how we get through it.

I tried to prepare by making some frozen meals ahead of time, but I want to say a very big thank you to my parents and my Aunt Lillie for making and bringing food for us. It has been such a blessing. Friends have reached out and offered as well, and I appreciate it more than I can say. Thank you to my parents for always being there and for helping with Remy too. Support like this makes all the difference.