Dear Family and friends:
Well, after being relentless and badgering the admin staff of both my general and plastic surgeons, I have secured a surgery date. (Finally!) They must ‘like’ me, since I have the first surgery time of the day.
It is going to be on Tuesday, April 19th at 8 a.m. Women’s College Hospital.
I am not particularly stressed about the surgery, however, am feeling a little anxious about it. I’m sure it will go away soon…..The important thing is that I have a date and it means that another stage of this journey will soon be over. Now that’s exciting!
I thought I would take a moment to answer some “FAQs” – frequently asked questions
- Q: When is the surgery taking place? A: April 19th, 8 a.m., Women’s College Hospital (yes – I know it’s above – but just in case you missed it…..LOL)
- Q: How long will the surgery take? A: About 3 hours or so
- Q: How long will you be in the hospital? A: About 6 hours or so – – it’s considered day surgery in most cases – – so after being monitored for a few hours after you wake up – it’s see you later!
- Q: What kind of surgery are you having? A: Modified Radical Mastecomy and immediate reconstruction
- Q: What does that mean?? A: Modified Radical Mastecomy: removal of the breast and tissue; and all my lymph nodes in the underarm area (axilla)
- Q: What does that mean?? A: Immediate breast reconstruction: this is actually a 2-step procedure, but starting now, it will save an operation (going under too). The plastic surgeon will use the same incision as the general surgeon to insert a tissue expander that will be inflated over the next 6-12 weeks. Once it is stable, another operation will have to be done to take out the expander and replace with an actual implant.
- Q: Why are there 2 surgeons? A: See above
- Q: What is the recovery time? A: Generally 4-6 weeks – – but you can still work from home; and try to do normal activities when you feel up to it – – like going through chemo!
- Q: Can you go out? Get around? A: Sure – depending how woozy or dizzy I feel. They will continue to supply antibiotics and narcotics. Driving may be tough – will be accepting volunteers
- Q: How will your mobility be? A: I will have drains for the first week, homecare/nurse will come around; Apparently I have to take a break from cleaning, cooking and ironing! (LOL)
- Q: What can I do to help? A: There will be some things I’ll need help with but, – worry not – I will call you!
- Q: Anything else? A: Just pray and send your positive thoughts to me, the hospital staff, and my surgeons, Dr. Cil & Dr. Beber that day.
Between now and then, I am going to get as much done as possible at home & work; mentally: get prepared for another battle; physically: hit the gym to get my body stronger and in good shape (not my usual way to stay in shape, but alas, probably the easiest but not the most fun); AND, going “dry” between now and then…….no drinking……..well, maybe one here or there – – after all, my oncologist did say that it was better to drink a little than none at all!! LOL!!
Thank you again from the bottom of my heart for being there for me. I often get asked how I stay so full of energy and positive, and I say it is because of my amazing circle. They inspire me as I hope I too, inspire them.
Family/Friends: We are almost there!
With love and hugs,
Winnie xoxo