Information Overload

NO MORE TODAY, PLEASE.

I’m on information overload.

I’ve read the books, talked to numerous breast cancer patients, researched on the internet and have now been in the offices of several specialists for more hours than I can count.

I have more appointments than I know how to juggle. When this Lionhearted Kat started to hide behind one great big paw, my caregiver man jumped into the arena. He asked questions, explained details I didn’t grasp, and patiently sat in a cool consult room for hours.

What would I say to a woman not yet diagnosed with breast cancer?

Did you know 15% of breast cancer is not detected in a mammogram, a self-exam is important.

1. Know your breasts well. They are not just something to fill out a blouse, or the “girls” as called by the two on “What Not To Wear.” They truly aren’t given to us to flaunt before a guy or get a husband. This is precious tissue, a gift just like our hearts, lungs, ears, eyes and limbs. We should understand what makes them work and every woman owes it to herself to self-exam.

2. If you detect something different during a self-exam, take care of it immediately. I waited six weeks. I’ve learned that six weeks makes a huge difference. Now I’m faced with Stage II cancer, not a simple lump easily removed.

3. Realize not all breast cancer is the same. Because your friend or your Aunt has breast cancer doesn’t mean you know the outcome if you by chance develop breast cancer. My Aunt had cancer and radical bi-lateral mastectomies. She did not have chemo or radiation. She did have hormone blockers. My cousins wife has cancer, also underwent bi-lateral mastectomies. She had six months of chemo and will have no radiation. Me, well, I have cancer, I’ve had two surgeries and unlike theirs, I’m blessed with having chemo, radiation and hormone blockers. Today I learned I’ll have another surgery after chemo.

4. If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, don’t be mislead into thinking you’ll lose weight. Today Dr. Rozak said there are such good meds to stop the nausea many BC patients gain weight. They sit around not feeling on top of the world and eat.

5. Unfortunately, one in four women will probably end up with breast cancer—70% will be hormone positive, like me. The good news about breast cancer, it is treatable.

Yes, I’m on information overload, but with my caregiver hubby chuckling in the corner making sure I drink my fluids, take my pills and sleep, with my family cheering me on and with the prayer support, I’ll make it through this another adventure—not one I chose, but I do believe even this is designed by the one who created me in the beginning.

Read Psalm 139…..God knew me in my mother’s womb and He still knows where I am today.