Monday, August 10, 2009

P.S.A.

Today my mom had a double mastectomy. She had breast cancer 2 years ago, but just got back another bad mammogram. She decided to stop messing around and "get rid" of the problem.

We thought the surgery was going to take 6 or 7 hours, but it took 12. That was a bit shocking. There weren't any complications or anything, just wrong info. The mastectomy itself took only two hours, then the remaining 10 hours were reconstructive.

I know this is such an emotional choice for her, and it was such an intrusive surgery. Because she had radiation already, she is not a candidate for the "easy" kind. Basically her whole torso is removed and put back. BUT I am so grateful that she was willing to go through with this. We want her around!

Last Thursday I got my "lovelies" smashed again. To be serious, it's not that bad. It is only two pictures per boob and it all goes so quick. Eventually we will all need mammograms, and I hope that no one will put it off just because it sounds embarrassing or painful. Do it. Do it. Do it. There, my very first Public Service Announcement. Enjoy.

6 comments:

Lizi said...

12 hours? Good land! I'm so glad there were no complications! I hope her recovery is quick. What a brave woman!! And good for you getting your mammogram done...not something I look forward to, but will try to be good about it now that I've had your official P.S.A. :)

Lorren Says... said...

I'm so glad everything went well, although I'm sure it's going to take awhile to recover! Thanks for the update!! Praying for your momma!

Shayla said...

Your mom is amazing, what a tough decision to make! SO glad she is doing okay after surgery... thanks for the PSA, I'll be sure to stay aware & get that mammogram as soon as needed.

Anonymous said...

I turned 11 the day my mom had cancer removed from her breast. I was too young to truly understand how scary the procedure was. My mom was blessed and has not had any further difficulties with cancer. I am not looking forward to my first mammogram, but I will definitely get it done.

Smullin Family said...

Mammogram, shamammogram... it's really not that big of a deal... geting one that is. I did my first when I turned 35 and it really didn't hurt and wasn't embarassing. I agree, DO IT!

Glad your mom is doing well. Keep healing momma.

Loved the cartoon. Fun-ny!

Audrey said...

Don't you think it's just such an embarassing event? I hate it. It's not as though guys have it any easier though right? Something about turning your head and coughing right?