A week ago today we found out that Shermance has breast cancer! Hard to believe since it seems like so much time has passed. "Come ASAP" now has a new meaning for me since it was the text message I received a week ago. I thought I was hurring to Shermance's office for a crown seating, but in reality Shermance had just received the news of a lifetime. We shifted plans, and I picked Shermance up at home and we met the surgeon within 2 hours of receiving the news. That night we had little hope. Two days later we met with the oncologist, and the rapid learning about the disease had just begun. We started to see glimmers of hope. Now a week into this process, we know more about breast cancer and the treatment plans than we ever thought possible in such a short time. We've heard of many alternative options, and take great comfort in the plan we have for treatment. We have very high regard for our doctors (one of whom earned a 2011 patient's choice award). Now we have nothing but hope and we are ready to take on this monster in Shermance's body.
Today we again met with her surgeon (Dr. Bombach). After delivering the office staff sweet treats, they spread good cheer. The doc then allayed our concerns about the upcoming treatments. We discussed options for the reconstruction when the time comes...likely in November. The main concern we need to focus on for the near term is avoiding infections and treating negative effects of chemo after Friday.
The difficult days start tomorrow with a double surgery: a lymph node surgery (to see if it's spread beyond the breast), and installation of the port that will be used for chemo for the next 6 months and all subsequent blood work.
Our 5-month Golden Retriever, Carmel, went under the knife today to be spade. The ladies in this house need extra TLC for their surgeries this week. :) Let's hope their is room for Dale in bed since Carmel has claimed her recovery spot on my side.
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