I’m just four weeks post-surgery and am doing very well. I have good range-of-motion in my arms, though the numbness under the left arm is a bit bothersome at times. I’m frightened about shaving my underarms, so I checked with my surgeon, Dr. Derhagopian, who suggested that I use an electric razor instead of a chemical hair remover. I also asked him if deodorants can cause breast cancer and he said that there’s no proof that they do. I believe him, but I still purchased a natural alternative, without aluminum, and will see how that works. Since exercise is now a must for me, I don’t want body odor. But I don’t know how the natural deodorants will compare to the ones I’m used to. If you’ve found something natural that works, please let me know.
At this point, I feel a bit more in control of my situation. This is due to my new mind-set, which is to focus on the positive and not the negative. It’s also due to the tremendous support I’ve received. My mother has been a constant fixture at my house, helping me with meals, picking up my daughter at school and accompanying me to my numerous doctors’ appointments. I can’t thank her and my dad enough for being there for me 24/7. My husband has been dealing with this pretty well too. He has not seemed turned off by my “lack of rack”. Then there are my wonderful, close friends who have had my back when my front was being remolded and when I was falling apart. I have also made lots of new, supportive friends including many inspiring and courageous women who are also dealing with this disease. My health professionals at Baptist Health, especially the doctors, seem to have just the right words and attitude to make this experience easier. I used to have trouble finding compassionate doctors, but ever since this happened to me, all of my physicians have been superb and kind. And I what can I say about The Wellness Community, except that it does a spectacular job of helping people with the big “C”.
I truly have been lucky in the amount of support I’ve received. However, the single most important source of support for me has been my fellow church-goers, whose prayers and encouraging words uplift me. Going through this has renewed my spirituality. I’m a Christian, and I can personally attest to the power of prayer. It really works and God is indeed good!
I encourage anyone who wants to comment on this blog, to do so. It doesn’t matter where you are in your life or what your beliefs are. It’s my wish that we can connect here and help one another, answer questions, deal with problems, make suggestions and just share anything pertinent about breast cancer. And who knows, maybe I’ll be able to create a virtual bra for you all to sign like the one I actually had my friends and family sign. In case you were wondering, it’s a 42D support bra. The photo is attached.