REI Girl is home – Oh my gosh she had a wonderful time…I’ll only share a few of her pictures – it was fantastic, everything and more than she expected. Is making plans to go back for an extended stay later this spring or summer. I should have known!! She really loved working with the children.
I have been knitting – but can’t show yet – think the new Sundance Catalog….
Winter has FINALLY arrived in Central Oregon – all of Oregon actually. I got out of Portland just before the storm – lucky me – as the city becomes and is paralyzed by snow. It is to be bitter cold all week – hope College Girl doesn’t have problems over the pass.
I do have news to report – I have Breast Cancer – I’ve known for a few months, but couldn’t reveal because I knew that REI girl wouldn’t have gone to Africa and that I wouldn’t be able to deal with. The journey has been logistically challenging, trying to figure out what to do, when, how to pay for it….on and on. But I think I am one of the lucky ones – what was found was smaller than a grain of rice, although the biopsy did confirm it was cancer. So in January I’m remodeling and will have lots of extra space – bilateral-mastectomy. Big picture says that because of family history (Don’t know if I carry the gene) it’s best to be aggressive. So off they come – and then I won’t have to worry about it anymore, I probably won’t need Chemo (thank goodness) and won’t need Radiation either. Even though I do have insurance, it’s a huge deductible, so have opted out on reconstruction – much to the dismay of my sister who had the whole procedure about 18 months ago and is very happy with the results – she does look great. I will only be in hospital overnight and then home for a week or so – very manageable I think. Cool – a whole week of knitting!!
Hope everyone is enjoying the Holiday season - maybe not as much as years past - but at least we're all in it together!! Cheers
6 comments:
Dear Julie, my heart goes out to you! You will certainly be in my prayers.
Julie, your outlook and approach to this latest challenge are inspiring. I will have you in my thoughts and prayers as you go through it all.
May blessings go with you on this latest challenge.
You've been in my thoughts, Julie ...
I was about to ask you about your plans now that your daughter is back home. But I see you're on track. My prayers go out to you for a quick recovery, dear. *hugs*
Oh My God Julie! I mean, thank God for modern medicine and all, but how, how could you be so brave and strong and not let the girl know? You are SO in my prayers!!
There was a a woman at the gym I attend who had a double mastectomy a few years ago and no reconstruction. She is quite content with her new shape and not even uncomfortable about her scars. She laughs and says, "I don't have to buy bras. Think of the money I'm saving!" She has since retired and moved to Seaside, or I would get her address for you.
My sis-in-law had reconstruction and had to go back twice for re-adjustments. They weren't even in size or placement. I think you have chosen wisely.
What can we do to help? Fill your yarn stash? Send you Omaha steaks? Does Safeway deliver in Redmond? Safeway makes good soups! I could send you soup. Soup will make you well.
Truely, Julie, let us know what we can do to help.
Julie, You are so strong and brave! I wish You all the best! Merry Christmas! Hugs!
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