It’s been a while since I have posted a breast cancer update. I’ve been busy getting back to life.
Things are going well. I’m feeling good, for the most part. I still get sick easily. I had a stomach bug a couple of weeks ago that was no fun. Evan got it first, Noah had a slight case, and then I got it. Somehow Morry avoided the bug.
I have been more active. We plan on joining Lifetime Fitness soon. They have a great childcare area as well as classes for the whole family. We did the week trial and enjoyed it. I was actually able to take a few group classes and run on the treadmill.
Noah turned 2 on March 20 and Evan turned 4 on April 5. We had a joint birthday party for them between their birthdays. We had family and friends over at our house. The weather was wonderful and everyone had a great time.
Back to me – besides being worn out easily, most days are good. My hair is growing back. The only annoying thing now is my fingernails. They became weak from the chemo and 5 of them have fallen off. Since there was already some nail regrowth it doesn’t look too bad. Just the upper half or 1/3 of the nails are missing. Really, it’s not too bad considering everything I have already been through.
My port is gone. I had that removed in February. It feels so much better without it. The breast surgeon did an amazing job removing it and fixing my scar. You can hardly see where it was now.
On April 23, I’ll have my final surgery for now. The expanders will be removed and the implants inserted. I’m not looking forward to another surgery, but I’ll be glad to have it completed. I have heard that surgery is not too bad. The surgery is scheduled for a Friday in Dallas and I plan on driving back to Austin on Tuesday.
Here are a few pictures taken today. You can see my head is covered in hair now. I’m no longer wearing wigs or hats.
Hope you all are doing well.
Rachel
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi,
I just found some of your videos on YouTube about your bilateral mastectomy and I would like to say thank you! I’m 28 years old and at 27 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had a lumpectomy back in November 2010, but in January 2011 I was told I had to have a mastectomy. I finished chemo at the end of May 2011 and on October 4 I will be having a bilateral mastectomy. I am absolutely terrified! But, seeing your videos (especially the one about the expanders), I’m feeling much better about things now.
Thank you for sharing your story. It’s really helped me.
Take care,
Katie
Hi Katie,
I’m sorry you have to go through this. I know it’s not fun, but it is do-able. I’ll be thinking about you and hoping all goes well.
If you have any questions or want to talk feel free to email me.
Rachel