The Bandages Come Off & Pathology Report

I cannot put it off anymore ... the post-op instructions say that the bandages should be removed the day I get home or the day after, and I've already given it more time. Besides I want a shower and to wash my hair! I know it will make me feel mighty good, in spite of the very present pain and I am still shuffling like an old woman.

I asked John to help me with the bandages but did it myself when I woke up. I started with the bandage over the lymph node because I figured that would be the less gruesome. And it isn't! There is a sterile strip that covers the incision and a little bruising under. Then, cowardly me, gingerly pulls the bandage off the breast and I am truly amazed. There are two sterile strips around the nipple, the breast is swollen, and that is all the evidence of surgery there is. I love Dr. Knaysi! I didn't think it would matter so much to me, but it does. Not so silly if you think that any surgery that changes the way you look is a constant reminder that this monster came to visit and may still be lurking within.

It was so good to feel clean again ... no more pajamas for me today. I am in my yoga pants and front buttoned shirt and I am still grateful for that sports bra!

At 4 pm, Susan Uhle from Dr. Knaysi's office calls with the pathology report. The lymph node came back clean ... no cancer! The margins of the lump that was removed were all clean, so there is no need for more surgery. The tumor was 7 mm ... it is about half of an M&M ... that is how small it was. I am indeed the lucky one!

More flowers and cards arrive today. John brings in a flower arrangement in a teacup and says, "This is from someone who knows you!" And show enough ... it is from the Forbes. The roses are a beautiful shade of lavender ... very unusual.

I thank God for all these wonderful people who have been praying for me and am touched by their thoughtfulness.

Beautiful roses in a teacup