Two Week Medical Update

It's hard to believe that my surgery was exactly two weeks ago today. It feels like it was just a few days ago. Between the medication and exhaustion, the days seem to run together. 

So where do we stand?

I have completed a double mastectomy with partial reconstruction. I call the reconstruction "partial" because it's a long process. They placed tissue expanders (TE) during the surgery. These TEs act as place holders for my future breast implants and work to expand my breast muscle and tissue in the process. They hurt. They are inflexible, heavy and feel rigid inside my chest wall. And, as I understand, each time I go in for an "expansion" (where they fill the expanders with more saline in order to further expand the muscle and skin), it's like getting braces tightened (yes, as in 12 year old awkward braces.) The more they tighten the braces to straighten your teeth, the more your teeth and jaw ache afterwards. I've heard this process is similar. The more they fill the expanders, the more my muscles and skin will feel uncomfortable. This process could take 2-6 months - so, as I said, reconstruction is a process. But one day, I will be whole and normal again. And believe me, I had no idea how important that would be to me - until now.

I got my pathology report back today. Here's what I've learned:

1. I had two Sentinel Lymph Nodes tested. One came back benign. One had positive cells but after further H&E stain testing, there was no confirmation of cancer. I'm not totally sure what that means and will learn more at my 12/6 appointment. 
2. All of the tumors in my right breast were confirmed as DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ) Grade 2. There was no sign of invasive cancer in my breast tissue which is a huge blessing. 
3. So far, there is no indication that I will need chemotherapy. AMEN!
4. My margins were clear with the exception of two areas in the upper inner and outer quadrants of my right breast. This tumors were close to the skin and may require radiation. Again, I will learn more about the next steps on this at my 12/6 appointment. 
5. I am positive for both estrogen and progesterone receptors. This is good for the ability to potentially proactively manage and ward off future cancers.
6. My next reconstruction appointment is 12/04: I will have my first breast tissue expansion. Dr Brown will inject 100 cc (or so) of saline into my current TE and my breasts will instantly grow. I would guess I'm currently an A-B. This is actually like every teenage girls dream come true - just really not that cool in actuality. 
7. My next breast surgeon appointment is  12/06. We will fully discuss my pathology and next steps regarding radiation.
8. On 11/13, I underwent genetic testing for BRCA1, BRCA2 and BART. These tests are elective but critical to me getting an understanding of my genetic make-up;  why this might have happened, and what we can do to ensure that my daughter, cousins, aunts and future bloodline has educated options regarding their breast and reproductive health.   

I have had so many visitors, gifts, cards, books sent, emails, texts and notes of encouragement. Thank you! I feel very loved.

That's all for now!