So, I am sitting here in my living room contemplating life. Basking in the generosity of family, friends and coworkers. My sister and cohorts got together and sent me mastectomy bras, pajamas, pillows, safety pins, straws and lanyards. I have offers of meals. I have flowers. I feel spoiled. Yet, I know that by tomorrow, the real work-and the need for these generous acts will be felt.
Along this journey so far I have encountered other survivors-of all kinds of things. One friend, in particular, has had more or less the same experience as I. And in comparing notes, we discovered that we have the same breast surgeon and plastic surgeon. And probably medical oncologist too.
The stories I have heard so far are sometimes hilarious-if they can’t “save” your nipples, did you know that you can get a 3D reconstruction tattoo? By a guy named Vinnie? Who lives in Baltimore? I kid you not.
Or, that they can now do a procedure called a DIEP where they take belly fat and transplant it to your breasts? Tummy tuck and reconstruction all in one!
I am going to have a tattoo of a daffodil placed somewhere on my body (probably near my left breast) when this is all over. Daffodils are my favorite flower and yellow my favorite color. My friend, Inchbranch, is designing it for me. I would never have considered a tattoo before this, but my body is doing to be scarred anyway-why not beautify it?
My husband, newbyblogger, will be trying to update everyone. I’ll be offline at least a few days-will try to check in at least occasionally.
I am in good spirits and just waiting for tomorrow.
And wondering whether (and hoping that they don’t) surgeons take snow days….
See you all on the other side….