Off to Relaxation

Last week I received a call from my oncologist, Dr. S in response to an email I sent her regarding her thoughts on the surgical options. She made a call to the surgeon and discussed in more detail about her reservations for the longer surgery. In the end, my oncologist agrees with the surgeon that I should go for the shorter surgery (pedicled tram) in hopes of having less complications. I am happy with her feedback and look forward to the operation on the 30th. I just felt that the surgeon and plastic surgeon had such differing opinions that I needed to know what my oncologist thought since she knows me best. One of the things I've learned through this process is to seek that second opinion on big decisions because all doctors have reasons for what they suggest, and those reasons are not always obvious. Either the doctor doesn't communicate it in those precious 10 minutes they have with you or you didn't happen to ask the right question. At least nowadays, I'm able to write a quick email to them to get an answer that doesn't involve waiting rooms or appointments.

It only took a week and a half for my skin to heal and as of now, looks pretty normal. The darkened skin from radiation has rubbed off and has uncovered new healthy skin. I'm always baffled at how the body can heal itself so quickly. I will still be careful to stay out of the sun until the surgery but at least I can go swimming. I also have more energy than during radiation and can definitely feel the difference.

At this time, I am not nervous about the surgery at all and am just enjoying the time off from treatment. We have been catching up with friends, going to summer events, and even attended Game 1 which was the highlight of this month (maybe the highlight of Elt's life). Tomorrow we are heading off to Kelowna with my sis and her family for 5 days. We're looking forward to doing nothing and letting the kids run around on the beach. When I come back, I'll be rushing around to have as much fun as possible before the end of the month. :)

I will send details of the surgery as soon as I know.

J