This is a list of things I'm remembering or learning that I think is worth sharing. I hope you find it interesting. Please email me at kikikeepsgoing@gmail.com or through the "Let's Connect" with any questions, thoughts or items I should add. This is definitely a team effort!
Different women have different ages when they should begin getting mammograms. Your OB/GYN should tell you. DO IT! And once you start, go every year. Don't believe the hype - it can be uncomfortable or unpleasant, but it is over in a flash. The techs know what they are doing, and will do their best to make it as quick and painless as possible.
I mentioned to the Radiologist, Dr. L, that since both of my parents had dealt with cancer, I assumed I was at an increased risk. She informed me that, to date, there does not seem to be any correlation between breast cancer and family history. So a cancer-free background does not mean you don't need a mammogram.
**CLARIFICATION: the particular breast cancer I have is random, and there is not a correlation between my parents having had cancer and me having this cancer. There are many types of cancers, and many variants of breast cancer. I was sharing with the purpose of pointing out that even if no one in your family has had cancer, you can still get breast cancer, so GET YOUR MAMMOGRAMS!!! In no way did I mean to imply that family medical history is not important - it totally is! And if you do have a history of breast cancer, which would be a different type than what I have, mammograms and ultrasounds are even more important. There is no good reason not to get screened. So schedule it!
I am a big believer in the power of the tribe. I could not do this by myself. Life can be difficult; loved ones make it easier. I am aiming to be as open, honest, and transparent about this experience, in the hopes that it will help someone else. I know I have been helped greatly thanks to others before me who have graciously shared their experiences.
I was firmly instructed by an expert (and one of my favorite people) that until this adventure is over, I can't get any tattoos, due to risk of infection. I wasn't really planning on getting one, but there is something about being told I can't that makes me want to. However, doctor's orders and I will be following that. (Side note, for those of you in SB, Ken Knox has done or redone all of my ink, as well as many of my friends and family, and we have never had any hygiene issues.) I also have to avoid crowds, for the same reason - to avoid germs. That part is easier for me to handle - I like staying home with my dog and a book.
There is a lot of great information on the internet, but there is a whole lot more misinformation out there. Stumbling across bad info can lead you down rabbit holes and possibly into dangerous situations, physically and mentally. Avoid WebMD and the like. Ask your health care provider to clear up any questions or concerns.
I have a favor to ask - I have a creative project in my head, and I need your help to make it happen 🤩. It would help me (and my restless mind) so much if you would please grab a sharpie or similar marker, in any solid color (no yellows or pastels, please) color, and draw a star 1-3” on white paper ⭐️. Then take a picture of it and send it to me via e-mail (kikikeepsgoing@gmail.com) or via text if you have my phone number. I’m not going to put my digits here, but if you don’t already have my cel, let me know and I’ll get it to you. THANK YOU!!!