Amy’s Story

Site created on November 8, 2023

Dear friends and family,

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to share an update on my recent health journey, and I thought this would be the best way to keep all of you informed. Your words of encouragement and support mean the world to me, and I truly appreciate your presence during this challenging time.

On October 12th, I had an early mammogram, which led to a call back for a compression mammogram due to a suspicious spot. At that point, I remained optimistic, thinking it could just be a cyst or a benign growth. However, the results from the subsequent tests raised some concerns. I had an ultrasound, which identified a
hypoechoic mass in my left breast at the 4 o'clock position, along with another suspicious area at the 3 o'clock position. These findings led to a BI-RADS Assessment Category of 4, indicating the need for further investigation.

I underwent an ultrasound-guided biopsy on October 27th, where they took tissue samples from both of these areas. The news I received on October 30th was not what I had hoped for. I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma in two separate areas, and it was classified as Grade 3, signifying a fast-growing type. The pathology report revealed that it had spread beyond the duct.

My nurse practitioner has been incredibly supportive, scheduling appointments and guiding me through each step of this journey. The next steps on this path include meetings with a Genetics Counselor, a surgeon, a radiation oncologist, and an oncologist, in addition to more tests and assessments.

I recently completed an MRI on November 7th, which indicated several areas of abnormal enhancement with a spiculated appearance. The extent of the disease seems to span over 5.6 x 5 x 6 cm, and the BI-RADS Assessment Category for this result is 6. Furthermore, I had blood work done to check for the BRCA gene, which can be a
genetic risk factor. Depending on the results, this may have an impact on my treatment plan.

As of now, the recommendations involve continued surgical and oncologic management. I want to assure you all that will keep you updated on my journey as it unfolds. Your support and words of hope are immensely appreciated, and I look forward to reading any poems, verses, or messages of encouragement you may wish to share. Your positivity is a ray of light on these challenging days.

Thank you for visiting, and thank you for being a part of my
support network. Your love and care mean more to me than words can express. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I navigate this path towards healing.

With much love and gratitude,

Amy




Newest Update

May 2, 2024

Journal entry by Amy Bullinger —

Good evening!

 

I am second day post op from double mastectomy and the beginning of breast reconstruction. Tissue expanders were placed, and 150 mL saline placed in each one to start.

 

Surgery went well. Good news is my lymph nodes were negative! I am so happy the cancer did not spread to my lymph nodes.

 

I stayed one night in hospital. Glad only one night. I could not sleep it was so loud where my room was. I was able to sleep comfortable last night at home.

 

Today when I woke up, I had pain in new areas and my pain was not good. I took pain medication, and I am alternating my pain medication with Motrin. This has helped and this afternoon my pain is tolerable. 

 

I have two drains one on each side. These little buggers hurt at times. I have gauze around my skin where they are sutured at. My surgical sites look good. I do not have bandages it was all glued. I am wearing a compression bra. I must keep on for two weeks. Then I can take off at night after two weeks is up.

 

My tissue in both breasts went to pathology. Will know results hopefully next week. I pray I am clear. This will determine my reconstruction process. I f I need radiation or more chemo it will delay it.  I will remain optimistic! 

 

I have appointments next week and week after to start with plans. Still unsure when I will start my infusions for my HERS2. Most likely this month I assume. 

 

I was told my next surgery will be a big one. Hospital stay will be for 5 days and the first couple I will be in the ICU with one-to-one nurse to monitor my skin and breast reconstruction. As I am using my own body for my breasts. Need to make sure blood vessels and everything works and no rejection.

 

As for now I am resting and taking it easy at home so I can heal up.

 

Love, Amy 

Read More of the journal titled "May 2, 2024"
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