So last week I meet Dr Swanik at the Lake Mary Orlando Health office. The office and atmosphere was nice and along with the Dr and the nurses. When the Dr walked in she explained the process and told me they might need to reduce the expander on the left breast to get to the right. She talked about radiating the chest wall, axillary lymph nodes and nodes near the collarbone. So I asked her why reduce? And I was told that I would be expanded then radiated. She stated, “no, We need to do radiation first. Your health first then cosmetic second!” I totally agreed but why the change. So she said she would consult her colleagues. Then she examined me and said I was good. Made the mapping appointment for 2/27.

As I walked out I told Juan, “wtf, am I her first BC patient that she has to consult her colleagues”? Juan agreed and said he had to keep his mouth shut. I felt so disappointed and confused. I called both the plastic surgeon and my oncologist. The plastic surgeons office explained it much better and my oncologist also explained. Since I am triple negative and now metaplastic they need to radiate between 4-6 weeks post op. It is a very aggressive cancer. Only one percent t of BC patients have it. So we have a switch of plans. I will remain flat during radiation and afterwards to heal. The skin might not extend as well so we will see. Then most important part is my health. My seatbelt is on for this roller coaster ride!

So fast forward to yesterday! My 3rd post op exam. The goal was to remove the remaining two drains. Well that didn’t happen! I still have to much fluid draining so I have to wait for next week. I also discussed my swelling after walking or having my feet down. They said it was my diet: wtf! I also gained 5lbs in a week. So I am officially 34lbs heavier. This shit is out of hand and crazy. I asked for blood test to make sure my kidney function was fine along with my liver. They said prior to surgery all that was fine. Well I am not worried about prior to surgery. So they said to go to my primary. That I was fine. So drains in and I have to increase my fluids and stop eating so much pasta!

What a freaking day, ride, last 8 months! You got to be strong or you will go crazy. But I will say sometimes you get tired of being strong!!!!!

I am blessed! I got this!