First post:
Jun 30, 2020 Latest post:
Nov 21, 2020
Welcome to my CaringBridge website. I tend to get stressed out about responding promptly to messages from people I care about, so I am using this website to keep family and friends updated in one place while I am recovering. I appreciate your "holding" of me while I heal!
I happened to discover a lump in my right breast earlier this month, and I immediately let my doctor know. 3 days later, I had a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy. 4 days after the biopsy, I learned the cells were cancerous. 2 days after getting my diagnosis, I met with my treatment team and scheduled a lumpectomy for Tuesday June 30. When the lymph node testing is completed 1-2 weeks after surgery, I will know the stage of the cancer and find out what additional treatment is recommended. My treatment team is lovely and very efficient! My surgeon is a beautiful young woman named Dr. Maris Jones.
This is how I am thinking about this: I have some cancer cells in my breast which do not belong there, and I am having them removed. My intent is to take the best possible care of myself: body, mind and spirit. I see my body as strong with a superb immune system working constantly to keep me well. I am using my mind and spirit to affirm that I will be well. I believe that having others caring for me will help me heal.
Some people talk about "fighting" cancer like it is a battle. I have decided not to use that language. I do not want to use any of my energy engaging with those unwelcome cancer cells! Instead, I am counting on my body, mind and spirit to protect me and keep me healthy.
We are still sheltering in place here, so Nurse Rich will be my primary caregiver. We moved to a different house in Santa Cruz in mid-March which has lots of light and windows looking out onto trees, so it will be a good space for a peaceful recovery (our new address is 417 Linden St, Santa Cruz, CA 95062).
I will update this site when I learn more. It is so good to know I have your love and support! I am visualizing my loved ones surrounding me in a circle, holding the edges of a white cloud which I rest upon.
Sending love, peace and good health to each of you, Janie
CaringBridge is a nonprofit social network dedicated to helping family and friends communicate with and support loved ones during a health journey. Learn more about CaringBridge.
