Appointment #1

Today was my first appointment with my surgeon, Dr Schmidt. Because of the size of my tumor and how aggressive it is considered, I will be starting chemotherapy before surgery.
Once the tumor has shrunk, I will have a bilateral mastectomy with eventual reconstruction. I will also be having both ovaries removed.
Somewhere in the mix of things, I will most likely also receive radiation treatments.

Currently, my breast cancer is considered stage 2B. That means that my tumor is between 2-5 cm and has already spread to my lymph node(s).
It is also considered a grade 3, on a scale of 1-3.
My breast cancer diagnosis is Infiltrated Ductal Carcinoma.

Aggressive is a term Dr Schmidt uses frequently. It scares me, but she did say numerous times that aggressive cancer responds really well to chemo. I'm banking on that.
Once I get my test results on Wednesday, my stage may be changed. At this time, I'm extremely happy with a 2B.

I have a full week of appointments ahead of me.
Tomorrow, Eric will be taking me to get an MRI and Pet Scan. This will show if the cancer has spread anywhere else in my body. This is the day I've been dreading. Please pray that it's ONLY breast cancer. What a funny thing to pray for, huh? I should have results on Wednesday.
We meet the oncologist on Wednesday. Thursday, I will have a port put in my upper chest to receive my chemo treatments.
Friday, my chemotherapy journey begins!

I cannot even begin to tell you all how much the messages, cards, texts, meals, calls and offers to babysit have meant to us.
You guys are keeping me going. I'm going to kick cancer's stupid ass for all of us. :)

My mom has moved in with us indefinitely to help with the kids, maintaining the house and transporting us. Our families have been so wonderful. Eric has been my rock.
This will make us all stronger, for sure.

Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated. Love you!