MARCH-LYMPHEDEMA AWARENESS MONTH

I can't believe I waited until the last day of March to mention that March is Lymphedema Awareness Month!

After my mastectomy, my surgeon informed me that I had a high risk of developing lymphedema due to the surgery, radiation, and lymph node removal. He referred to me as a "triple threat." He encouraged me to see a lymphedema therapist for baseline measurements so we could assess how much larger my arm had become if I started to experience symptoms. He also provided other important information on the subject. I have since learned that some oncologists and even breast surgeons do not discuss lymphedema with their patients, which is shocking to me. What the heck??

Living with lymphedema has been challenging—physically, mentally, and financially. Unfortunately, I experience pain or discomfort from my lymphedema on a daily basis. Finding attractive and comfortable clothing that can effectively camouflage my much larger arm is often stressful and difficult. Additionally, the costs of compression garments and physical therapy sessions can add up quickly. Fortunately, advocates like actress Kathy Bates and many other supporters have worked hard to ensure that Medicare and insurance companies now cover most of our needs!

Today, I visited Cavell's, a specialty boutique that sells mastectomy and lymphedema supplies, to get fitted for new bras and lymphedema garments. It’s hard to believe, but some insurance companies still consider compression sleeves "cosmetic." Seriously??

I want to emphasize the importance of taking proactive measures regarding lymphedema if you are facing a breast cancer diagnosis. It’s essential to ask questions, research, and seek a qualified lymphedema therapist. Hopefully, there are more available than there are in my locality.

HAPPY TO ANSWER QUESTIONS

I am happy to answer any questions I can on the subject. I will soon post updated photos of my lymphedema arm and some pictures of the items I purchased today.

 

GOODBYES

Last month, I visited the Cancer Center for my regular monthly appointment and saw my oncologist of eight years for the last time. Dr. Saker has been my doctor since my initial cancer diagnosis in October 2016, but he is retiring at the end of this month. Saying goodbye was really tough.

 

When I first met Dr. Saker, I was a complete wreck. I had so many questions swirling in my head, and some I was too scared to ask because I wasn’t sure I wanted to hear the answers. Thoughts about cancer, chemotherapy, surgery, and even death weighed heavily on me.

After having in-depth conversations with both Dr. Saker and Dr. Quill, the now-retired surgeon who performed my mastectomy, I began to feel much more reassured and hopeful about my future. Both doctors were everything I could have hoped for in my cancer treatment.

MORE GOODBYES

Yesterday was my final visit to the Lawrenceville office, where I have received my treatments since the beginning of this journey.

It was an emotional moment for me as I had to say goodbye to two amazing individuals who have played a significant role in my experience: Wan Yang, PA-C, and Lisa. Over the years, Wan has provided me with invaluable medical expertise, genuine concern, and kindness. It will take at least three or four people to fill his shoes at SHO!

When you walk into the Infusion Suite, the first person you see is Lisa. She is always there with a smile and a warm hug! I’m not even sure what her official job title is, but I genuinely believe that her smile and kind heart have the power to cure many ailments. Lisa is also a breast cancer survivor herself. Since I'll be getting treatments at a new location, I won't see Lisa regularly, which makes me sad.

However, I will definitely visit her whenever I’m in the area!

Lisa and Pam

I’ll miss many people at Suburban Hematology Oncology in Lawrenceville, GA, but saying goodbye to Dr. Saker, Wan, and Lisa really hits differently.

After a very emotional morning filled with tears, I decided that a bit of whipped cream on my coffee in the Survivor mug was just what the doctor ordered!