Jo Thompson

First post: Dec 5, 2021 Latest post: Dec 12, 2023
On September 3rd, 2021, I went in for a routine mammogram. From there, additional images were requested, which were then followed by a biopsy. On September 21st, it was confirmed I had been diagnosed with breast cancer in the form of invasive ductal carcinoma. Following additional testing, scans, other factors, I decided to proceed with a bilateral mastectomy, scheduled for November 18th.  At that point, I thought it would be surgery, recovery, wait, and then reconstruction sometime in 2022. Shorter story, it's become more than that which eventually I'll circle back to. 


It's worth noting that from the beginning I wanted, needed, to keep my sense of humor through this process.  Humor, while sometimes inappropriate, is part of my core and I'm not about to let cancer change that. I initially referred to the tumor as a gremlin and in doing so, realized there is a gremlin named Daffy. "Daffy was a very crazy and completely nutty gremlin, more so that the others. He is very hyperactive, has a mad sense of humor, and is almost constantly laughing hysterically." Perfect! Others caught on quickly including when I got my surgery date, my mom said, "Daffy needs to duck out." 

I have since decided to use this keep family and friends updated with consistent and accurate information. As much as texting is quick and easy, it’s also difficult to manage and provide the kind of detail that I wish to share. I have much appreciated the immense amount of support and words of hope and encouragement. 

Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

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.

To interact with Jo’s website, sign in or register today.

By registering with CaringBridge, you will join over 300,000 people a day who are supporting friends and family members.

Sign In Or Register
SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top