Coming Towards the End Of the Annual Breast Brigade

While many of us girls were able to make it through another year, free of breast cancer, many of us were fighting and struggling to make sense of this untimely disease. Although its nothing that you can totally prepare for, one of the best things that we can do is to educate ourselves on breast care and to learn better ways to read and communicate what our bodies are telling us. On my personal journey here are some of the invaluable things that I have discovered.

1. Dr. Susan Love's Breast Book was a godsend to me. It was like the bible of the breast books. It helped to answer the many questions I had about how to read a mammogram, self examination, over coming fear of results, what the results mean, and great questions that you should ask your doctor.



2. It was so cool to have a wonderful support team to get me through all of the rough spots. At times I was so down about my initial results that it really helped for me to have the people that mean the most to me by my side. (sniff, sniff) they were the BEST!



3. All hail the maker of the post surgical bra! After my surgery it was mandatory that I had great support for my breasts. In February 2009, I had a bi-lateral Lumpectomy (that means both breasts ladies), and I'm top heavy (that's BIG boobs) so comfort was an absolute must! Ouch!



4. Belief in God. For my experience, it was important for me to maintain faith in a higher power other than myself. Although, admittedly it was hard for me at times because I often battled with the, "why me's". Through constant prayer and once again my wonderful support system I pulled through just fine.



5. The beauty of the DVD! OMG! The time that I spent sitting, unable to move around alot, and in efforts to maintain my sanity (and everyone else's), I had tons of DVD's to keep me company. Not only did it curb my boredom but it offered many escapes into many different worlds other than my own (which by the way seemed sucky because of the pain and lack of movement). Comedies Rock at times like these!

Although this list is very limited, I hope that it gave some insight as to what helped to get me through my ordeal. By the way, as of September 2009 (my 6 month follow up), things are looking good. My mammogram showed no signs of concern! Woot Woot!

I encourage and challenge you to find out more information as to how you can best care for your ta-ta's. Knowing the status of your breast health is half the battle! Go for it!

Hugs, Kisses & Best Wishes,

Miss Know It All

Coming Towards the End Of the Annual Breast Brigade