i am still strong and surrounded by love and light

I was officially diagnosed with breast cancer on August 13, 2009. The 13th came and went without me remembering. It was only today when I was listening to a CD a friend made for me during that time that I remembered. (Side note: Can I just say I LOVE mix CDs? They are made with love and thought and give me a insight into what makes that particular person who they are.)

Back to cancer.

I don’t even know what date people use to say how long it’s been since they’ve had cancer. No one gave me a handbook.

I would probably say it would be more like Sept. 11, 2009, because that’s when they actually removed my breasts, and the cancer. But maybe it is the 13th. Who cares, really?

I can’t believe it’s been a year.

I think back frequently to the avalanche of love and support and feel so so grateful. It was a surreal time for so many reasons, both good and bad.

It seems like yesterday and a million years ago.

It really puts everything into perspective, like so many other of the big events in my life recently. Having children, being diagnosed with a chronic illness, the death of my amazing Dad….

Nothing is too big too handle. And most things are stupid and not worth worrying about.

The last step is to get my knipples tattooed, a task which I’m strangely looking forward to. I’ve always wanted a tattoo. Now I can say I have two! Although, things might get a little awkward when people ask 1) what they are and 2) if they can see them. However, flashing seems to be something I just do for sport these days so who knows!

4 comments:

Confessions of a Mother, Lawyer & Crazy Woman | August 18, 2010 at 11:19 AM

Yay for new knipples! And good for you for staying so strong. You should be proud of yourself.

Associate Girl | August 20, 2010 at 7:19 AM

Do you go to the tattoo parlor, or is it done at a medical office? Because if I was at a tattoo parlor, I would be tempted to do something a little crazy with the design.

Emily | August 20, 2010 at 9:24 AM

AG- I'm cracking up. I actually go to a "medical tattoo specialist" or something. I was a little disappointed as I would have loved to have gotten it done at a hard core Tat shop by some big burly, bearded guy.
I have always wanted a tattoo but can't think of ANYTHING I want permanently on my body...

little irish | August 20, 2010 at 5:15 PM

For a minute there I thought your were going to go "Danielle" on me from New Jersey housewives. Hee hee.

I'm so happy you are coming to close on this chapter. You are a strong lady and I'm proud to call you friend. xo