…And not in a good way. Not that there is a good way but let’s face it, if my chicken belly flap thing were to disappear while simultaneously hoisting my boobs where they used to be…okay, I’ll stop fantasizing now.
The fact is, overall it will be a good thing. I won’t have to worry about getting ovarian or several other cancers. I’ll be permanently protected from pregnancy in the event that my husband’s vasectomy were to malfunction. I’ll never get my period again. (Pause for a collective “whoop whoop!”)
Yet my anxiety continues to rise higher and higher as we grow closer to the actual surgery date (November 4, 2012), particularly after my pre-surgical appointments yesterday, during which I was informed of not only the post-surgical aspects (fully out of commission for 2-3 weeks, can’t lift anything over 10 pounds for 6 weeks), but in addition, learned that I will have to live off of liquids for a day in advance, have all of my nail polish removed, leave the house with no makeup on—or even deodorant—, and arrive at the hospital sans coffee so they can stick me with needles and administer yet more scarring to my already-striped stomach.
Putting things into perspective, the fact is, I know this is the right thing to do. I have a strong family history of estrogen-receptive cancers, such as ovarian and breast. By having this voluntary hysterectomy, I will be vastly reducing my likelihood of contracting a deadly disease, and that’s got to be worth it all. (Genetic testing predicted an over 80% chance? Sign me up for the knife!)
As for breast cancer risk, I’ve decided not to go the preventative surgery route. Since early detection is more possible, and treatments are more successful, of course I hope not to ever get it, but I feel decent overall about prevention, testing, etc.
What do you think about this? Anyone have any experience with these issues? Do you agree or disagree? (Not that I’ll be changing my mind.)
Oh, and please… come November 4… SEND CANDY CRUSH LIVES! 😉
6 Responses
Nikki Alicki
With an over 80% chance of getting cancer, yes I think it is the best choice. I’m sorry you have to have to do it at all, but at least it will significantly reduce the risk. Let me know if you need anything! Visitors, dinner, help around the house! <3
LoriTheAuthor
Thanks, Nikki! I appreciate your kind words. Oh, and have I mentioned that I have two shedding cats? And four kids? Come on over and bring a vacuum! (LOL! Just kidding!) I should be okay… Mark is taking 2 weeks fully off work and an additional 3 weeks of working from home (no travel), so he should have that stuff covered. Maybe some company once I’m feeling a little better though! xoxoxo
Janet Josselyn
Mine was a piece of cake! Same day out-patient surgery done laproscopically (no scars). I really rested for 24 hours, took it easy for 5 days and resumed my normal life (except for no heavy-lifting for 2 weeks). Best thing I ever did! You’ll be fine . . . . really! Good luck, but ou won’t need it!
LoriTheAuthor
Wow, Janet! That does sound not as bad as I’ve been told. I’ll keep my fingers crossed that we’re talking about the same surgery and that mine goes just as well. Thanks for the positive words!
Jennifer Hanlon
Hey sweetie, just read the email. You always were the proactive type. You’ll do fine. Awesome pain meds and a doting husband waiting on you hand and foot. Don’t forget to get a bell in case you need something while he’s out of earshot. Love you!
LoriTheAuthor
LOL! Thanks, Jenn!