Hi Colleen & Members, thanks so much for reaching out.

Tomorrow will be three weeks since my diagnosis. I have been on autopilot just trying to go step by step. I haven't allowed myself to take time to absorb everything and I'm not at all prepared emotionally or physically for my surgery next Wednesday, 9/22.

My husband, Tom, will be with me. I don't have children. I have three sisters who are my support system. I would do anything to spare my husband this pain. He is such a good man but he can only understand so much of what cancer is about and what it does to you psychologically. He can only go with me so far on this journey. I will need to go the rest of the way alone.

I have many questions: how much pain can I expect after surgery, how long will it take to be up and about, when does chemo start, what foods will I be able to eat? The questions go on and on.

One of the most difficult aspects of this is that I've never been comfortable asking for help. Unfortunately, this is just too big for me to handle on my own. 😪

I would appreciate hearing about everyone's experiences if you're comfortable sharing.

Thanks so much.

Sincerely,
Catherine