Dear T.,
I am also a breast cancer survivor as well as a survivor of ovarian cancer that was diagnosed in 2004. Literally three years to the day, on October 6, 2007 is when I found out that I had breast cancer. I was devistated, but I also knew that I had to do what needed to be done, not just for me, but for the sake of my 2 year old son who needs me. Due to the fact that I tested genetically positive for the BRCA-1 gene, my oncologist suggested a double mastectomy even though the needle biopsy only indicated that it was just in the right breast. At the age of 36 it was not easy to loose both breasts since I had already lost both my ovaries and am going through menapause at a young age. But I can honestly say I do not regret my decision. The peace of mind that I have now is beyond compare to what I would have felt if I had only had a lumpectomy with radiation treatment, and would always wonder when the cancer would come back.
I am working with a plastic surgeon, Dr. Patricia Depoli, who actually specializes in breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. Please let me know if you would like to have her information. Before I had my surgery I went to see her for a consultation. She is the only doctor I have ever known who took as much time with me as I needed, and didn't try to rush me out the door. She listened to me cry my eyes out for a good 30 minutes, and then processed my feelings with me. She then showed me her before and after pictures, and I was truely amazed. Dr. Depoli is a real artist and has a unique gift. She assured me that she could make me look as natural and as good as the women in those pictures who also had reconstuctive breast surgery.
Reconstruction is a process. I had my mastectomy this past January and will be ready for the breast implants this month. Dr. Depoli has been there for me every step of the way, and even lets me call her on her cell phone when I am having a difficult and not so sure moment.
T., please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. You are not alone, and you will overcome this. Please know you can always contact me if you have any questions or need someone to talk to, my phone number is ###-###-####. I can honestly say I know what you are going through. Be strong and know that God is with you just has he has been with me.
Hugs,
J.