On July 29th, my mastectomy and breast reconstruction surgery date was confirmed. Monday, August 19th will be the date of my surgery at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital. In addition to my client, Dr. Tina Alster being a Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Georgetown, my father completed his Pathology residency at Georgetown back in the 1960’s. With all these connections, my family and I feel very confident in my surgery taking place there.
I feel confident in my choice of hospital, and my physicians, but I still can’t believe I have cancer. I didn’t cry when I got the diagnosis. I haven’t cried since, either. I think I’m still processing it. It is very surreal because I didn’t have a breast lump that I could feel. I feel healthy. I look healthy. How do I have cancer? I don’t think it will feel real to me until I wake up from surgery and feel some pain, and see the scars.
Kelley has been amazing support, inspiration and resource. She is so positive and helpful. I don’t think that I could make it on this journey without her leading the way. This is the main reason I wanted to launch Breast Cancer Gals, because not everyone has a lifelong friend to guide the way.
Dr. Alster has also been an amazing support and inspiration. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013, and was back at work in less than a week. She is smart, strong and works harder than anyone I’ve ever known. Physicians half her age can’t keep up with her and her busy schedule.
I am blessed to have a great support system, and two of the best surgeons in Washington, DC caring for me. All of this gives me confidence that I will be just fine.
