Things are quickly moving, reminds me of July 2011; unfortunately
this cancer “thing” is gaining momentum. This year began with finding a new breast
mass in January, removal in March, new breast masses discovered in August,
removal in August, and finally learning the tumor removal was not successful
according to pathology. It is a bunch of doom and gloom type of findings; not
obtaining clear margins and cells indicative of further spreading of cancer to
parts unknown.
I want to quickly spotlight a local Corvallis reconstructive
breast surgeon that refused me surgical services because “he read your blog”. Yes,
I did in fact write about Dr. Kevin Day and the consultation I had with him in
a previous blog posting, however, I did not “name” him – perhaps he was deeply
impacted that his name was not attached. The posting, if I do say so myself,
was quite brilliant! So, here is a shout-out to you, Doctor Kevin Day – I hope
you enjoy my blog. Please know that your bitchassness has not been lost on me
or others. (spotlight turned off).
I returned from a trip to Houston to consult with my team of
doctors; it was a fantastic visit. I have decided to move forward with surgical
intervention and have both breasts removed (bilateral mastectomy). This was not
too difficult of a choice, although not the preferred one. To me, this is not
much different from when my hair fell out following chemotherapy. It did not
bother me that much, I actually fancied myself bald – I mean, I looked really
good! For me it is not about losing my
breasts, it is about the surgery interrupting my life. I have been processing,
reframing, and rearranging my priorities. My health will come first, even
though. I did not attempt to schedule my surgery around school or internship –
I simply scheduled the first available appointment time. I trust everything
else will fall into place; it may look a bit different than I envision, and
this is okay.
I will return to Texas for surgery, stay in the hospital for
a couple days, and will remain in Texas for about 2-weeks until I am able to
travel back to Oregon to complete my recovery. It is a big surgery. There is
risk to do the surgery. There is risk in not doing the surgery. My hope is that
if the vulnerable breast tissue is removed, then my body will be successful in
systemically balancing itself and I can declare – DIS-EASE FREE BODY!
I have many fantastical stories from my visit – I may share
later when I have more energy. Let me give a little teaser- While visiting Dr.
P, the reconstructive surgeon I explained that I did not mind if my breasts
were reduced down to little tiny A cups (with implants filling the pocket where
breast tissue once sat). He expressed “well, I want to make sure you get dates”
encouraging me he could use expanders and make my breasts larger than an A cup.
I laughed and replied, “I am married, and what is really important is that I
have a vagina- and I am good in that department!”
I have a short time to make arrangements for my upcoming
surgery followed by several recovery weeks. The love and support that blankets
my family is beautiful, thank you. If you are able to financially contribute to
travel and treatment expenses, please click on the link below or via mail:
Click to support:
OR
Mailing Address:
Christina Garrett
PO
Box 192
Philomath, Oregon 97370
Thank you for believing in me and supporting my health and
healing efforts.
Today, I am hopeful~
