GREAT update: I met with my oncologist this week and we talked about next steps now that the surgery is behind me. Right now I don’t have any active cancer as all the cancer has been removed. That means my next steps are preventative care. My cancer was estrogen-receptive and her2+ and the risk for reoccurrence is only 2 to 3% due to the small size etc but there are some options to reduce that risk. The preventative treatment options for me are limited because I’ve already had some damage to my heart due to my chemo rounds years ago. Herceptin, a typical preventative chemo type drug given for my cancer isn't be an option for me because it may cause more heart damage. My only other option is taking Tamoxifen for 5 years and that is a hormone therapy that cuts the reoccurrence risk in half. I’m still debating whether to take it or not since my risk is so low. There are mild side effects but no long term side effects and the drug had been approved for many years. Either way, my doctor is fine with my decision. She says I’ll get an A+ if I take the tamoxifen and if not I’ll still get an A!!

I’ll thrilled with the conversation we had and to have learned more about my cancer in depth. I’m feeling really great now, almost back to normal physically. Driving, moving, moderately lifting, and back to walking daily. Though my plastic surgeon banned me from doing push-ups indefinitely, I’m thankful I made the decision to go forward with the bilateral and I’m not looking back!! 

Thank you again for all the meals, love, cards, gifts, and messages. I’m eternally grateful and am excited for the many opportunities I’ll have to pay it forward down the road! Love to you all xoxo