It was 4 weeks Tuesday since I had my surgery and I’m FINALLY feeling normal.
I think the 3rd week was the hardest. Partly because I went back to work and I found it really exhausting and partly because of my sensitive skin on my chest. Ugh. I can’t explain how uncomfortable it is.
I can palpate my skin with my fingers and I barely feel anything but if any clothing rubs me it’s like a wire brush brushed up against my skin. Even a breeze from my nose makes my skin hurt. It’s so weird. I went and bought some “balm” at the jogging store that helps joggers avoid chafing. It helped quite a bit. I also spray my “area” with Lydacain and try and numb everything. Plus the occasional ice-pack. Every day it’s a little bit better than the last …
I finally decided to start wearing a large band-aid over the scar area and that’s been the best way to avoid contact with my clothing. I want my scar to breath … so as soon as I get home it’s TOPLESS TIME at the Kramers. 😛
I finally ditched my breast binder. It took a few days to get used to not wearing it … wearing it 24 hours a day for 3 weeks really gave me comfort. When your breast is removed you suddenly feel vulnerable. Plus the binder kept things in place. My surgeon wanted my scar to heal in a perfect straight line and it has. It’s a good-looking scar. I’ll show you soon. 🙂
I still wear my binder when I work-out. It keeps everything from jiggling .. better than my sports bra.
I FINALLY have enough energy to get back on my elliptical machine and it’s been awesome. It makes me feel SO much better to get my blood flowing, my lungs heaving and to work out some of the stress that I’ve been carrying around the last few months. I feel less fragile and more strong every day. I think my body is so stoked to not be fighting that tumor. 🙂
I also bought myself a new foam boob! 🙂 It’s not my “official” boob but I’m not ready for one of those yet. My skin is too sensitive still and this foam boob gives me the shape I need without putting weight on my chest.
I think it looks pretty good. Gerry keeps having to ask me which one is the real one. Ha ha.
Your job (dear internet) is to make sure my boob isn’t in the wrong place. I went to work yesterday and realized that it was SO much higher then my left breast. ha ha. Whoops.
Also went for a couple of relaxing  massages. Those released a lot of tension and I’ve even been feeling so normal that I even went on a motorcycle ride with Gerry the other night. We had so much fun riding around the water on Dallas Road. I actually got teary… it was a beautiful evening. All the trees are in bloom and the sky was so blue. I was overcome with so much gratitude.
So grateful for my life. For a loving husband. For Fergus. For all my friends. For all of you (yes you) and your support. It’s been a whirlwind of crazy …
The crazy cancer journey isn’t over yet – I have the meeting on the 15th with the oncologist to talk about their suggested treatment. So … there is more crazy coming.
But for now. In this moment. Things are good. 🙂
Yay! The difference a week makes. 🙂 Enjoy the respite + goodness. xo
Glad to hear that the energy has returned. That is very awesome and that you have healed up as expected from your surgery.
xoxo
Rebecca
Yay for feeling more normal! Being on boob patrol will be fun. I foresee lots of giggles. 😉
xoxo
~a
yay! glad you are feeling better. I will send positive vibes for your appt on the 15.
Awww…you sound better, even just reading it! That is great news.
And really, feeling good in the moment is really all we have, isn’t it. A good reminder to stay in (and cherish!) the present…
Thank you for the updates. Your honesty and openness reassure those of us you don’ t even know but who love you that you are, in fact, well in all of the important ways! <3
Great to hear you are feeling so much better! How about some two way tape on that foam boob? 🙂 That outta keep it in place !
Who would have thought that nose air could cause pain? That’s some sensitive skin.
Hooray for working out and for joyful rides along Dallas Road.
I came in to Sarah’s Place earlier this week to meet you and Fergus, but alas, you were not there. Ah, well. I loved seeing the store!
Tho post made me tear up, you at inspiration to all us on how to deal with things when life throws hard stuff your way. And on how to enjoy life and be positive throughout. <3 x
Gotta love autocorrect. “Your an inspiration” lol
Yea, Sarah! It sounds like you are doing fabulous!
Fantastic news Sarah – I’m really glad to read that you’re feeling so much better. Hoping this lasts, and sending good vibes for the next stage of treatment. x
Hi, my good friend Sue E. told me about you. I had breast cancer 3 years ago and decided to have a bilateral mastectomy. I had chemo first to reduce the size of the tumor, then surgery and ended with radiation treatments and am doing great. I was able to continue working through the surgery and treatments (I love my job!) but missed a couple days after each chemo session. The Cancer Agency in Vancouver was a wonderful experience for me. Such compassionate and caring people. Hope you are doing well.
I just love that you are friends with Bif Naked. I have always loved her music.
Glad to see that your recovery is going well. I am always sharing your story with people, and my BF just loves your curly grey hair. Inspired me to no longer colour my hair 🙂 Off topic? Perhaps, but just wanted to share!
Do it!! Gray is the new black!! 🙂