Cody Updates by Mom

One year ago today I was more scared that I had ever been in my life.  I was sitting at Regions hospital in the Breast Health Center waiting for my first of many tests.  I had felt a lump a week or so prior.  I had gotten in to see one of the docs at my regular clinic.  She said it was likely just a swollen gland or a benign tumor like I had had before.  I wasn’t convinced.  I had pain and was fairly swollen.  Something was wrong and I knew it.  So there I sat in my little robe that they give you waiting to be called back.

My first stop was the 3D mammogram.  In talking with the technician, this was the only one in the state.  It was new technology and they were seeing good results with it.  Having this test when you are already in pain is very difficult.  Jim wasn’t able to come back for this part so I was alone.  They did not give results in the room.

My next stop was the ultrasound room.  Luckily they allowed Jim to come back with me for these tests.  This is where the doctor of radiology came in and talked to me about the mammogram.  He said that they were able to see a shadow of something that they want to look at closer.  During the ultrasound he talked about the difference between this mass and the one that they had removed just a year before on the other side.  That other mass was very distinct in shape.  It was seen on a regular mammogram and was benign.  Very normal in their eyes.  They did see some non typical cells but nothing to be worried about.  This new mass was very different.  He said that it had all of the characteristics of being cancer.  The shape was similar to the shape of your hand spread out.  Tentacle looking things going in different directions.  At this point he said that we absolutely needed to do some biopsies on the tissue.  He was concerned that we were dealing with cancer.  The biopsy is not necessarily pleasant however today, it seems like a walk in the park after all that my body has been through.

We then went to work for the rest of the day.  At this time only a two people knew what was going on.  My boss at work because I had to change my schedule to fit the appointment and Jim.  We wanted to keep things quiet until we knew what this was.  I already knew my answer.  I had breast cancer.  We were just waiting for the confirmation.  The doc said that we would hear something the next day after 3:00 pm.  I let work know that I was going to leave early the next day so I didn’t have to get the call at work and went on with my day.  I cannot tell you anything else about the day.  I believe that I must have switched on the Mel-bot and just went through the motions.

One year ago feels like a lifetime to me right now.  I cannot believe everything that has happened since that day.  I am a completely different person on both the inside and outside.  Even though I wouldn’t want to do any of this again, I wouldn’t change the person I am now.  I am stronger, more calm and my priorities are more real.  It is truly amazing what 365 days can mean to a life.

Caring Bridge Comments

Joan Axdal, Prayer Chain, All Saints Lutheran Church, Cottage Grove|Mar 18, 2015 6:49pm
Mel, I love to read your posts. You are so able to put into words the realities and feelings of your moments. I want to hold onto your posting on fear, to have for when I want some inspiration or perspective.
You continue to be listed in our Prayer Chain newsletter. There is no time limit for prayer and I’d like to continue until your connection is healed. March 20 is my birthday; it is a happy thought that you’ll get your permanent implants on that day.
Have a good celebration at The Igloo! You have much to celebrate.
Blessings on you.