Underwent the "simple mastectomy" on Nov 1 on the right side. This is my third breast cancer surgery and sixth primary cancer overall. I was so discouraged to have cancer again and did not want the surgery, but it was the only rational option. Already have had so much radiation to the chest (lung cancer, too) that radiation wasn't an option, and I just wouldn't go through the violence of chemotherapy again.
The biopsy was August 17, and when it came back as cancer I had already scheduled my annual trip to visit my cousin in Florida. My mind was already made up that I would go to see Kim, regardless of the results. Also set things up so I couldn't fail no matter what the biopsy showed - if it wasn't cancer that would be great and if it was cancer, I would take a cruise to Alaska and a vacation to Europe.
I came home Sunday, Oct 30, had the COVID test Monday, Oct 31 and Surgery Tuesday, Nov 1. There was no time to think about it that way. It was off limits while in Florida and while I did talk to two people who had gone through mastectomies, I refused to dwell on it.
The surgery went well and the feared complications from lung cancer did not happen. It does not hurt as badly as I expected although I could do without the 18" incision that goes all the way to my back. My friends have been wonderful - they took me out Friday for a breather from being cooped up at home!
I hope to be able to take an oral chemotherapy to prevent recurrence. I had liver cancer as my first cancer, and could not take tamoxifin because my liver wouldn't tolerate it.
All in all, I am okay! Thank you for your responses that helped a great deal, and for the prayers!!
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