My Journey Begins

The test results are in. I have breast cancer; therefore, my journey begins. I would like to use this blog now for a couple of reasons. One, to keep family and friends updated and hopefully get those who have put off their mammogram to get one; and two, as therapy. I'll try to continue with crochet and knitting updates as I can.

My journey began August 23 with a screening mammogram. Nothing was said, but I was a little suspicious when the tech kept covering the images so I wouldn't see. I didn't think too much about that because I do have a tendency to get cysts. A few days later I received a phone call asking me to go to the Breast Center at the hospital for more thorough testing with a doctor.

August 30 found me at the Breast Center, an hour later I was told that I needed a biopsy. Still, I didn't worry too much. Biopsies have been talked about before for the cysts, but the cysts always went away. This time there was something different--calcifications. The doctor said that 80% of the time, it's nothing to worry about. And I have talked to other women who had biopsies for calcifications and they are fine.

I had the biopsy on Friday, September 2, right before a holiday. The wait was horrible. The news came September 7. That afternoon I met with a doctor, who found another mass, and I had another biopsy that day. I will definitely need surgery. This last biopsy will give us more information for a battle plan. Of course, I haven't received the results and have had to wait the weekend--again.

When I got the information that I have cancer, I didn't know if I wanted to cry or throw-up--I did both, then called my husband and took a walk around the parking lot. Once I got control of myself, I told my boss. She is being very supportive and so are my co-workers. I am ready to fight this. I do have meltdowns, but my wonderful husband has been so helpful. He has taken on the responsibility of keeping my attitude in check--he won't allow me to give up, but does allow me to cry. His boss is also supportive (we work at the same place, just different departments). We have both been told to do what is needed and not worry about time off, paycheck, etc.

Projects

Needless to say, I haven't spent much time working on anything. No progress has been made on the lace top. I do, however, have an order for potholders that I have been working on. Potholders don't require much thought, so has been perfect.

I did go through my stash, matched yarn with patterns, and put projects with hooks and needles in separate bags. Whatever I need to work on, I should be able to find it. I came up with 2 pairs of socks, 3 shawls, a necklace, a hooded scarf with mitts, placemats, potholders, coasters, can cozies, the lace top, and the sock blankie started a long time ago. That should keep me busy.

What I Am Reading

I'm still reading Life among the Lutherans, by Garrison Keillor. This is the perfect book for me to read right now. He has one story about an organist, "Scripture says, 'Be still and know that I am God.' This is not the organist's philosophy. Organists despise stillness. They're sitting there with the organ equivalent of a 300 hp Ferrari and they want to put the pedal to the metal and make that baby fly". I love that! I reminds me of an organist we had many years ago. Every Sunday morning, as people would quietly meditate before the start of the service, the organ would bellow and every single person in the church jumped.

I am looking for some good books to ready over the next several months. The books need to be upbeat, happy, and no sad endings. Any suggestions?

Other Stuff

The section is going on a hiatus as "My Journey" will take over this part.

I've been asked if there is anything anyone can do for me. I always reply "prayers and hugs". I've been getting a lot of hugs and hopefully a lot of prayers.

This is September 11, Remembrance Day for those who lost their lives to terrorists' actions at the Twin Towers in New York City on September 11, 2001. We will always remember...

Have a good week!