One Year Anniversary and Follow Up Appontments

I have reached my one year anniversary for my diagnosis with breast cancer. Although, I would never wish that "anniversary" on anyone, I am very happy be here to celebrate. In the last year I have been diagnosed with breast cancer, had a mastectomy, 4 cycles of chemotherapy, a hysterectomy, another mastectomy and reconstruction. Not an easy year! I am very blessed to have such a loving and supportive husband, family, and support system. We are also blessed by insurance and the many resources available in the Austin area; Wonders and Worries, Cleaning for a Reason, Breast Cancer Resource Center to name a few.

I would like to say I am a better person because of this "walk". Most days anyway... There has been good that has come from it - I advocate for awareness, my boys can deal with stress in healthy ways, they can talk, talk, talk, about anything on their minds, we are strong and united as a family, I have met some wonderful and loving people in support groups and through support services. I am truly thankful.

Monday, I went to my three month check up with my plastic surgeon. On November 17 I am scheduled for my nipple construction. It is an office visit. He will cut a mushroom shape flap, twist it and stitch it. In six weeks, I'll get them tattooed to have the correct color and I'll be as good as new! I am healing well and he is very pleased with my progress.

Monday, I also had a follow up with my oncologist. Everything looks great and I'll see her again in three months.

My Primary Care Physician did some blood work to check for arthritis. I have severe hand, hip, knee and shoulder pain and stiffness. The worst being my hands. He was sure it was carpal tunnel but the blood work should I had elevated levels for arthritis. 20 is normal, my first test was 35, two weeks later was 42. I am being referred to a rheumatologist.

I am 37. I am a breast cancer survivor, I have osteopenia, and arthritis BUT I and HAPPY and BLESSED to be here. I am also a wife, a mother of two sweet boys, a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a cousin, a friend and a teacher. Thank you for your support, love, friendship, cards, emails, donations of any kind. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Love and prayers
Laura

P.S. David and William are doing great in 1st grade and preschool. They are so fun to be with. David has lost his fourth tooth this week. William dropped off a present and card to his "best friend" at preschool today. Life is good!