Hello friends and family!

My surgery on Tuesday went well and I was sent home on Friday. I will be home recovering for the rest of this week. I was in surgery for 4 1/2 hours but everything went smoothly. My Mother is here taking care of me and never before has my frige has  been so full!

A 7 year Breast Cancer survivor came to visit me in the hospital. She was a volunteer for The American Cancer Society and she came to offer words of encouragement and gave me a list of local and national resources for survivors. Se told me that she had a 5 centimeter tumor and several positive lymph nodes. I was thankful that she came to see me because it's always good to know that you are not alone! She also provided me with information on becoming a volunteer through The American Cancer Society.

During my hospital stay I had a lot of pain and believe it or not, the most discomfort came from my IV site. For some reason the nurse used the largest IV possible. But each day the pain lessened and I am nearly pain free now, feeling mostly stiffness and tightness. So as usual, your prayers and support have proved valuable once again! I am now one step closer to having a renewed body to match my renewed spirit. My final surgery will take place in 4 to 6 months. Thanks and I love you all!

Melinda