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As of today (February 1st) I am officially on medical leave to prepare for my bilateral mastectomy on February 10th. I will be coordinating doctor's appointments, pre-testing, Reiki appointments, etc. and post surgery care until the big day. I am fortunate to have a great support network which includes my family, friends, colleagues and other breast cancer survivors (way too many!). I have been touched by people sharing their stories and information with me.
My students too have been a support. The resounding message from a card I got from one of my classes (where we've been talking about resiliency) has been "Stay Strong, Dr. K." One student even said "we need you with us". So, of course, I have to follow my own advice and theirs and be resilient and strong. There are some down times but overall I feel very lucky to have the DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ) discovered so early and do anticipate a successful recovery.
So, I'm stocking up on books, checkin out "chick flicks" and practicing my relaxation and reiki and figuring out how to use this blog. Bob will post updates right after my surgery until I'm up to blogging so you can keep updated on my progress.
Renie
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Renie,
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing an easy way for us to stay in touch with how you are doing. Having such a supportive network will certainly help you to stay strong!
Hey, Renie
ReplyDeleteLittle by little I am being brought into the 21s tCentury with all of this technology! I know you are going to do fine with all your "nurses" at home. Attitude is everything and you are really a healthy person. Consider this another 'bump in the road' that will teach you many important things. Like what chick flicks are the best! Looking forward to reading your blog!
Hey Renie,
ReplyDeleteYou are way cool to think of all of your friends at a time like this. Your strength and resiliancy...and good humor are a testament to you as a person,and a great reflection on your family. All of IACNY research will b praying for you on the tenth...I'm the boss and I will make it so! :)
We love you!
Stacey
Renie!!
ReplyDeleteYou have been through a lot! It has got to be tough and I can see where your "tough" is already going. Since it sounds like you have your mission down, don't forget to create your "vision" for this journey! I'm counting on you to come up with a marvelous one.
Love,
Alis
We have shared many things in our life together as sisters but I never imagined breast cancer would be one of them. You are a strong person and will make it through this next challenge in your life with flying colors. Love you and will see you next week.
ReplyDeleteDenise
You are ready and right where you are suppose to be! Good luck, breathe, and go to your quiet place! it'll be over before you know it and you'll have 2 bocce balls for your boobs. That is what we survivors lovingly call the big hard expanders. Just remember, it is all temporary and you are going to have the small, perky girls you want before you know it! you can do this!
ReplyDeleteYou have been in my thoughts and my heart since I woke up this morning. I have and will continue to have only positive, loving thoughts shooting your way. We all love you.
ReplyDeleteBeth, John, Snickers, Samantha, Riley and Daisy.