Today was a fantastic day!!  

I was able to meet with my Nurse Navigator at the hospital to begin the next phase of treatment- surgery!!!  Keith and I met Jen in the Women's Center where everything began last November.  It was a little surreal to be back there now that I have completed chemo.  It was a wonderful appointment because we were able to set up all the necessary appointments with the surgeons and talk about all to expect for this phase.  Recovery does sound tough but it will be sooooo worth it!  It is anticipated that I will have surgery in the middle of June if all goes well and I will stay in the hospital for at least 4 days.  Recovery will be rough but after having the past 5 months of chemo I know I will be able to overcome the obstacles and become cancer free!!!

One of the other great things that came from my appointment at the hospital was that I was able to thank my ultrasound technicians who were so key to helping me during those horrible first days of testing and diagnosis, Michelle and Colleen.  I loved being able to see them and let them know that I was doing well and was so grateful for how caring and wonderful they were for me during that time.  I realize that I want to be able to let people know that I am thankful for them and for all they do.  

I was also able to go to my follow up appointment with Dr. Chung.  I took my mom with me so she could experience the caring and wonderful people who have taken care of me over these past 5 months.  My port acted up which was humorous since it was one of the last times I needed it to work.  It did finally work and my numbers were rather good for being less than 1 week out from chemo.  The routine of chemo has become 2nd nature and it is such a family feeling in that office which has allowed me to relax there and be comfortable.  I was complimented today by the oncology nurse staff when they told my mom that I bring sunshine and a party in with me each time I am there.  I am so appreciative of all the people in the office and have stayed positive through the connections I have made with each of these wonderful people in this office.  It was great to have mom also have a chance to see Dr. Chung in action.  Mom was happy to see how thorough and helpful she is.  Dr. Chung was glad to hear all was going as well as possible after this last treatment.  I am dealing with swelling and more pain but it is all worth it knowing that I am done with chemo.  

I left the Oncology office not having to go back there until July!!  I have not been away from this office for more than 2 weeks during these past 5 months so it is a little difficult thinking about not going there.  They did tell me I am welcome to visit any time and I am sure that July will come quickly.

I was in awe today of myself.  The person who walked in that Women's Center today was a changed person from the one who went for her first mammogram in November 2010.  I have a new found strength that is pulsing through my veins.  I am also very aware of what is really important to me and that is positiveness.  I am also aware that I want to make a difference in life.  

So as I move on I am meeting with my oncology surgeon and my plastic surgeon over the next week and a half.  I should have surgery in early June.  What a successful day it has been!!!