Nancy Piepho

Hello!  So as most of you know, I took Breast Cancer Awareness Month literally and was diagnosed with Stage 1, HER2+ breast cancer the beginning of October.  It's been a bit of a whirlwind up until now.  Multiple doctor's visits for mammograms, ultrasounds, biopsies, MRIs etc.  At first we thought the treatment plan would be surgery, chemo and radiation, but the MRI revealed that it was actually 3 nodules totaling 3 cm vs one nodule at 7 mm.  Because of that, they decided to do chemo first.  SO, chemo started for me two days ago on 11/16/17.  About 6 weeks after being diagnosed.  It's similar to finding out you are pregnant and about to give birth.  You spend a lot of time preparing for the unknown.  



I have a wonderful support system, full of family, prayer warriors and my tribe.  I had a chemo party to start things off in style and felt bathed in love.  I know I could send a text to anyone of you and you would drop what you are doing to help me.  So for that, cancer has shown me many upsides - the width and depth of my friends; the true hands and feet of Christ, and my sons even watch TV with me and tell me they love me.  I mean what more could a girl want?



My port was installed this past Wednesday and while the surgery was fast and quick it is still the piece I like the least.  I know it's there for a good reason and should eventually feel more natural, but right now I just feel part cyborg, clyon, name your sci-fi show. 



The first chemo session itself wasn't too bad.  They have fancy chairs and I chose the one in the corner with a window.  It was a long first session.  There from 9am - 5pm; but spent it in shifts with Craig, Jen and my mom.  Craig and Jen were there for the pre-meds.  (Think pre-flight.)  Jen and I did a lap around the room and even some yoga in the hallway.  I got a surprise visit from Allison and that alerted the nurse in charge that I had too many people wanting to visit with me.  (Extroverts hate when that happens.)



My mom arrived when the "real" chemo drugs started and the nurses put on extra blue plastic things.  That was when I decided to put the laptop away.  (I compared that to Jaeggar.)  After finally getting to leave, we went across town to an acupuncturist to help treat the side effects of chemo.  We got home late that night, and I know I'm only on day 3, but so far the side effects have been minimal.  I know things could change in an instant, so am trying my best to rest and be good.  



I'm trying to do a bit of East meets West with my treatment plan.  Chemo, surgery, maybe radiation, but eat healthy, drink lots, lots of vitamins, essential oils, acupuncture, massage.  It will be nice to not go to an appointment for 3 weeks.  I'll try to keep everyone posted and share silly pictures.  



I want to say THANK YOU to each of you for your gifts, love and texts.  I love each and every one of them!