October.  Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  I used the days of October to reflect on my journey.  I posted daily on Instagram and I have to say I look at the month of October differently now.  I always loved it because I could wear pink, dye my hair pink, be crazy about pink and felt as if I was supporting those fighting the fight.  Now I was that person, yet still Thankful that I caught the cancer early and that I had the “good” cancer (oxymoron, I know).

I started the month out with a visit to Radiology to get my six month scans, a visit to my Radiation Oncologist, a visit to Tina’s Treasures for a postop bra fitting  (a store devoted to women’s cancer) and a visit to the nutritionist at Virginia Piper Cancer Center.  Yep, all in one day so I could be finished with the six-month process and be relieved of my anxiety.  I received good news with clear scans!  Thank God!

My next step was reconstructive surgery on October 17th.  Today I am four weeks out from surgery.  Surgery went well and now I just have to get through the 12-week recovery.  It has been a rough month with extreme limitations:  no lifting, bending, driving, arms overhead, no exercising or tennis (UGH!),  I have to sleep propped up on my back (completely uncomfortable as I am a side sleeper) and have to let everybody do everything for me.  This is difficult for me, and I am extremely Grateful for all those who have assisted me, especially Dennis who has been with me every day and does EVERYTHING.  Also all of our friends and family who brought a meal, gave me a ride, styled my hair, etc.  We are so Blessed!

I have had four shots to shut down my ovaries to send me into menopause (I am HOT…from the flashes, aka “power surge” as I call it!) I started the hormone blocker, Arimidex, on Sunday.  I am praying I escape the side effects (bone and joint aches, weight gain, etc).  I will give it a try and see how I do.

2018 has not been my favorite year, but I am finishing up with all the surgeries and limitations and will be ready to start 2019 out fresh and will continue to walk this journey knowing that God is using me.

I am Thankful.  I am Grateful.  I am Blessed.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18