yesterday we ( the sag guy and I) had a long discussion with the doctor and the breast surgeon regarding the questionable needle biopsy. The final decision is that I will be having a masectomy on June 16, after I return from doing the little rid riding hood ride with my sisters on june 4. I am fortunate in that they will be doing only breast tissue and not going after the lymph glands. To quote my doctor " we just take out a smiley face of tissue and then scoop out the melon. and then sew everything up with a bow." I will be in the hospital overnight just to make sure nothing is leaking, bleeding or clotting and the home and in active recovery. I gather the biggest issue is dealing with the drains for two to three weeks. That and not being able to drive for a week to ten days. but the surgeon also pointed out to me that there would be nothing wrong with my legs or my right arm.

I will not be doing chemo or radiation therapy, but will continue doing the hormonal therapy ( tamoxifen) but other than that I should be able to go back to a twice a year mammogram and self breast exams.

While it's kind of a bummer i feel almost giddy with relief that the decision has been made and I can plan accordingly and not have this all hanging around over my head.

I have checked out the breast cancer support groups in the area and they are all full and not taking new patients. In the meantime I have one of the breast advisors at the MD Anderson sending me info and programs and social workers should I need someone to talk to so.......

Anyway, come mid June the spinning of wheels to send some positive thoughts would be appreciated.