And then there was one aka Ta-ta, ta ta

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In April I had my annual mammogram and then a biopsy. I was not worried in the least. I’ve had seven lumps removed in the past and none of them of concern. . Then I had a replacement of my knee replacement. Two days after that, I received the results of my biopsy. Invasive ductal carcinoma, stage IIIb. That’s quite a shock to hear. Nothing but fear, confusion, anger. It was not in my plans for this year—or any year. But, here I am, no choice but to roll with it.

I posted about it on FB. I was amazed by the number of people who reached out to me saying that they had been through it if I ever wanted to talk. So many people I had no idea had been through the battle. I know people handle things differently and apparently LOTS of people prefer to keep this kind of news close. I’m an open book so talking about it is in keeping with the rest of my life. It was very comforting to me to talk to those who have been through this. It made the whole thing less scary. Knowing that others have made it and are thriving gives me so much hope. I hope that others who go through any kind of trauma lean on friends for support. No one needs to walk life alone.

But then there are too many friends who have passed from cancer or other horrible diseases. Every person knows more than 1 person who didn’t make it through “the fight.” I started thinking about “fighting cancer” and it really started to make me angry. I don’t like to call it a fight because that sounds like you have some control. You don’t. It isn’t a fair fight. There is nothing fair about it. I suppose it can be argued that there are some lifestyle behaviors that aren’t good for anyone’s health but that doesn’t mean that not smoking, eating well and exercising make you immune to cancer or glioblastoma or MS or Crohn’s or Lou Gerhig’s or CF or a million other diseases. Sometimes you are just thrown into the fight. And that just sucks. Who ever said life was fair?

So, Monday I will be having what I’m calling a breast reduction. I’m reducing the number of breasts I have by 50%. I’m having a hard time reconciling my feelings. I mean it’s only a boob. At my age, they are saggy and a bit of a nuisance but on the other hand, I’ve been attached to them for 61 years. And, you know my history of clumsiness, I’m either going to be walking in circles or running into walls. 🤷‍♀️

I have received such comfort from all the prayers, good vibes, healing thoughts and well wishes and appreciate any more you’d like to send my way.

14 thoughts on “And then there was one aka Ta-ta, ta ta”

  1. You are the wind beneath my wings. From your shoulders I can see mountains. Let’s see….there are a few more annoying little tidbits I can add, but, suffice it to say, you are loved with one boob, two boobs, or no boobs. You are fighting a crap fest, but you will survive!! Oops…there I go again…Tata tata!!♥️♥️

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  2. what an amazing way with words you have. You have a good way of putting this shitty medical ugly situation. I admire your tenacity. But I’m still pissed you have to go thru any of it. You are amazing, no matter how many boobs you have.
    take care- Maribeth

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  3. Susan – I don’t know what it feels like to have cancer or to lose a breast. I do, however, know that your “glass half full” approach to life has served you well.

    I would not be surprised if you developed a fashion line for one-breasted women.

    Karma and I continue to hold you close to our hearts and pray for healing.

    Kick that bitch to the curb.

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  7. I don’t even know where to start with all of this. Cancer has no idea who it decided to try and mess with this time. And hey – this is the perfect time for all those one-shoulder dresses because now you only need a half of a bra, right? I’m trying to make you laugh.

    You deserve the world and a half, my friend. I miss you and love you dearly.

    Cathy Nolan

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  8. you are a rockstar. You’ll probably start a new fashion statement with a uni-boob. 😂 You know I’m praying for you and love you. You’ve got this!! ❤️❤️

    Lisa

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  9. The power of prayer has been studied and proven. You’ve got lots of people praying in agreement for you and your medical staff. You are not in this fight alone. I love you ❤️ Joyce

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  10. You are so amazing! And such a talented writer. And so brave. And so beautiful bald!! I will be there with you tomorrow in thought. You are loved. You got this!

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