the finale to venting frustration of a month lost

[marni]

So after a partial masectomy last week and another 4 days lost to required rest and pain meds, I saw the breast surgeon and oncologist today. The partial masectomy got rid of all of the ductal melanoma and left a good margin of healthy tissue. For reasons too complex to go into, I have refused radiation, but neither thinks this is a bad thing.

The compromise solution is to monitor me every 6 months with a mammogram and put me on Tamoxofin. If anything comes back, I will just have a total removal.

So as far as I am concerned this is good news. Medications and follow up mammograms beat radiation and surgery any day.

Time to end the pity party, hoist an Arrogant Bastard Ale in celebration and get back on top and back into control of my life.

I have had three consecutive days of exercise, not riding unfortunately, but at least workouts and cardio work, and I feel wonderful.

[OakLeaf]

(((((((marni)))))))

I'm glad you're feeling good. Take good care - and be careful not to push too hard. Pain is exhausting even when you're not aware of feeling it. (I wound up sick for months, years ago, all because I wouldn't rest and heal a bad case of road rash. And the pain from the biopsy really became much more obvious after it was gone, which took about two weeks just for the two core needle punches.)

[Bike Chick]

Marni, I am so sorry for your breast cancer but it sounds like the prospect is positive.

Enjoy the cold one! You certainly deserve it but do take care of yourself and get plenty of rest.

You are a tough one!

[jessmarimba]

It sounds like you've picked a very rational plan of action. Enjoy the beer! Hang in there and take care of yourself during the recovery.

[lph]

Oh, enjoy that beer, you've deserved it! Tough cookie.

[hebe]

Enjoy that beer! Two of my close friends have recently completed treatment for breast cancer, they are both now unstoppable and a complete inspiration.

[Catrin]

Congratulations and enjoy that beer! It sounds like you are in a very good place, good news that you are feeling better and have worked out an approach that you are comfortable with. Pace yourself in your recovery...

[Crankin]

Have an extra beer for me.
Take care of yourself.

[Chile Pepper]

So sorry you are having to go through this. It sounds like you have a good prognosis and a supportive medical team. Here's to a smooth recovery!

[Jones]

(((((marni)))))
I don't really know what to say, I'm so happy you are feeling ok and I hope this is behind you forever. Stay tough!

[colby]

I can't say I've been there, but I imagine it's nice to feel like you can start to put the BIG DEAL behind you and move on. A beer well deserved! Salute!

[yankiwi]

(((((((marni)))))))
Wonderful attitude; wishing you a smooth and complete recovery.

[Bike Writer]

Very glad to hear that this has taken a positive turn, I had a bout with breast cancer in my mid twenties - that was many moons ago - I'll hoist one with you!

It changes a persons perspective and I can see from your attitude that it has changed it in a very positve way, every day is precious. The appreciation of life and conquering of illness lends itself to making the most from every day and enjoying life to it's fullest.

Rock on Sister! You'll be in my thoughts and prayers.