Has my cancer spread is the big question. Do I have cancer in my lymph nodes? Today I had surgery to see if the cancer has metastasized into my lymph nodes. This is very common in breast cancer. Especially where my tumor is located, so close to my arm pit area.
Mom and dad picked me up super early, as I had to be at the hospital at 9:00 am for pre-surgery. I had to stop eating 12:00am. I woke up ready for the surgery. I am an old pro at surgery. I was not really nervous. Not even worried to if they were going to find something. I felt confident they wouldn't. Well....I think really I was not thinking about the results. I was just "doing" the surgery.
Pre-op was fine, a bazillion nurses, doctors, med students, residents, etc, came in and out of the little cubicle after you are changed into your hospital gown, given a few warn blankets and a lovely "hat" to wear. They all asked the same or similar questions. (what meds are you taking, what is your name and bith date, when was the last time you ate and took your meds....)
My doctor came in, and she was really nice, Dr Cocilovo. A lot different impression than I had the first time. About 10 - 15 min after I saw her I was being wheeled into the operating room. After that I don't remember anything until I woke up. I woke up to a sweet nurse who asked if I wanted anything to drink. She gave me water, asked my pain level from 1 - 10 and gave me some pain meds. She did this several times. It was here I learned the good news that I had no cancer cells in my lymph nodes!! YAY, I cried happy tears!! I asked the nurse if I could give her a hug I was so happy. I did not realize how much I really cared until then. Of course I cared, but I think it hit me. :-) Another 15 - 20 min I was moved to where I could see my parents and then another 15 min I was able to go home.
Now, I was told I could only eat (chicken soup) afterwards, but I wanted Popeye's and mashed potatoes. And that is what I made my dad get me. I ate it too, and did not get sick!! HAHA!! :-)
Mom and dad stayed with me for a while. Then I was able to relax.
I set up an appointment for the next day to get my hair cut, because I have been told it is better to have it short when you start to lose it. My hair dressor is awesome and I knew he would take care of me.
