Laura’s Story

Site created on April 15, 2021

I have Stage 1 breast cancer.  Going for a double mastectomy soon.  Thanks for visiting and letting my share my story. 

Newest Update

Journal entry by Laura Schlitter

I haven't updated in a while!  It's been a very busy and trying time.  

I moved from my friend's house back to my mom's house.  Not being able to work has put a toll on my finances.  So for now it's home and she can help me when I get to do reconstruction.  

I did get prosthetics.  Luckily insurance covered them.  They are quite expensive.  But they will work with the expanders and I do not always have to wear them.  It is very odd to have boobs again and to wear a bra after 2 months of nothing.

My iron has been low, very low.  The doctor said it was almost the lowest she has seen.  So for the past 4 weeks I have had to go to Cedar Rapids for iron infusions.  No reactions at least.  And my energy is slowly coming back.  Trying to eat my iron rich foods and watch my diet carefully.  I didn't eat bad, just not a lot of iron.  

Met with the plastic surgeon this past Tuesday.  Complete misunderstanding on when reconstruction could be scheduled.  I knew I had to be smoke free for 6 weeks.  My plan was to schedule surgery and then that would be my goal.  Unfortunately I have to be smoke free for 6 weeks and then they will schedule.  Which could be another 6 weeks out.  I will be getting expanders which will be filled every week with saline until the skin stretches far enough out for the silicone implants.  Luckily I do still have some skin left so I am hoping (fingers crossed) that it won't take more than 2 months.  Also hoping I do not have to go to Cedar Rapids every week to get them filled and I can find somewhere closer to me.  

I have started looking for a job again, now that I have energy and am starting to feel better.  Just not sure what I want to do.  I would love to go overseas again to live and work.  But need to do surgery first.  And make sure it is safe to travel again.  Any suggestions on job openings overseas are greatly appreciated!

Love ya,

Blaura

Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Laura Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation powers a page like Laura's for two weeks.

If you donate by May 12, your gift will be doubled, up to $10,000, thanks to a gift from Living Water Foundation.

Comments Hide comments

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top