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Welcome! |
I would like to thank everyone for your cards, notes, emails, mass cards, thoughts, and prayers. This trial will bring us to a whole new level of appreciation for the friends we have. A big thank you!
Just for you to know, I have made up another website, since I ran out of room on this one. If you would like to continue to keep up with my progress, go to www.freewebs.com/moreaboutmary.
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My Story Begins... |
On December 29, 2004, I found a lump in my right breast that just didn't feel right. Although I had just had a mammogram in November that showed no sign of abnormality, I thought it was important to have it checked out. I saw my doctor the following day, saw the surgeon the next week, had an ultra sound, another mammogram, and biopsy within days after that. Two days later, the news...I have breast cancer. |
Choices to Make |
So what are my options? I can opt for a lumpectomy, followed by radiation, or have a mastectomy which could be followed with reconstructive surgery, if I choose. Because of my young age and my doctors wanting to be aggressive with this, either choice will also be followed by chemotherapy.
I thought it would be a good idea to get a second opinion. I saw another surgeon who, after reading my lab reports and examining my mammogram, concurred with my first surgeon, Dr. Wong. I felt very good about her from the beginning, and I have decided to stay with her for the surgery. I also have a breast care coordinator, San Luu, who is available to answer any question I have, make appointments for me, contact my surgeon, or guide me through the upcoming steps I need to take. She is wonderful!
My lab reports have indicated that I have two tumors, one that is 1.5cm, the other 1.1cm. One of them is close to the chest wall. I decided to play it safe. I will have a mastectomy on Friday, February 4, 2005.
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My Network of Support |
I have the best support group in all the world. My husband, Dan, is amazing. He calls me during the day to check on me, and reminds me that he loves me. He takes me to my appointments, and will be with me through my treatments. If you notice something different about him, it's his hair. He is not going to cut it until I get the clean bill of health. By that time, people might just mistake him for Yanni!
The boys are great. We talked with them about my diagnosis, and explained what it means. We will continue to inform them about is going on with my treatment as time goes on. For now, it's just one small step at a time. Since I look and act the same way I did last week, month, year, and we have been included them in what is going on, they are not afraid. Please keep them in your prayers.
I think the most difficult thing for a person to have to go through is seeing your child have to suffer. My parents, along with my sibblings, although hurting, are very strong. They are wonderful. They have been available for me, and when I need anything, they are at my doorstep. I am one lucky lady.
I never realized the wonderful network of friends I would someday need. Everywhere I go, people tell me they are praying for me, along with my family. I receive phone calls from total strangers, cancer survivors, who share their stories and offer their support to me. Total strangers, yet members of the special group I have recently joined. I have received so many cards, letters, and emails of encouragement. I start each day new, fresh, and ready to appreciate what it brings. How very fortunate I am to have so many people who care!
With our strong faith, family and friends to support us, and the chains of prayers offered up for my healing, I am ready to take on this fight. I feel strong. Thank you for your kindness.
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The Race for the Cure |
I have been encouraged to make short term attainable goals. My first is the Komen "Race for the Cure," at the Rosebowl on Sunday, February 27. I told my family that even if I have to be pushed in a wheelchair, I want to be there. My surgeon assured me that I will be able to walk with no problem.
If anyone is interested in walking with us, you can go onto the Komen website and register by Friday, February 4, at 11:59pm. My team name is "Mary's Angels." The cost of the registration is $25 for adults, $15 for children under 17, and seniors. There is no need to do any sponsorship, although anyone wishing to make a donation can be made payable to LA County Komen, sent to me, given to me on the day of the race, or made online. I am very excited about this great event, and look forward to our team picture. Please contact me if you have any questions.
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Sponsorship |
I am absolutely overjoyed about all who have supported me through sponsorship. As of yesterday, February 16, I reached $1700! Can you believe that??? Anyone who is still interested in donating for the cure, you can make checks payable to L.A. County Komen, and send them to me directly, or give them to my parents. Again, thank you for all your support!
Checks continue to come in. Yesterday I topped the $2000 mark. Talk about excited and inspired! I am really looking forward to turning in the wonderful donation from those supporting me and the fight for eradicating breast cancer. Once again, you are the source of my strength.
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