July 8th

Okay so after learning what is or will happen and thinking about it, it's better than I expected. Bob and I went to Virginia Mason this morning and first talked to the reconstructive surgeon regarding my options for reconstruction after the mastectomy. My decision is to use my own tissue from my stomach (a tummy tuck as a boobie prize Ha! Ha! get it? boobie prize - Okay so maybe I'm not as funny as I think!) As the doctor pointed out, I will never be exactly the same but this comes close. I saw pictures and feel pretty positive about it. However, I must be in good physical shape. When it will be done depends on whether I have to have chemo and/or radiation after the mastectomy. We won't know that until the lymph nodes are checked during the operation. If I have to have chemo or radiation, I must be recovered from them. So I shall just have to see. I have been thinking about it and am very grateful for this option.
My next appointment was with Dr. Wechter the surgeon who will perform the mastectomy. It will be done on July 16th. Afterwards I will go home to Emily and Reagen's house. She gave me all the details so I know what to expect. What professional and caring people they are to deal with!! Afterwards, I saw the pre-op people so all the details were taken care of.

Starting tomorrow it is play time. Reagen, Annette and I made a Costco trip to buy all the food for our family for Floating Woman. We are going to play and have fun with family and friends until next Monday when we return to get ready for the serious stuff. I am glad for a chance to play, laugh and enjoy the happy things in life.