February-14-2008

Don't worry, be happy! ...post surgery update

Hello!

One of the first things that I received when I woke up from anesthesia was a large get well balloon from my mom that sings "don't worry - be happy"... something my Dad always sang to me as a child to make me feel better. I instantly smiled. I apologize it has taken me this long to write an update from my surgery on Monday, but it has turned out to be quite a different experience than I anticipated.

First of all, I want to thank each and every one of you for all of your continuous prayers, support, love, and dedication in preparation for my big day. I got really scared the weekend before about how things were going to go. But thanks to my faith in God, and encouragement from all of you, I made it to Monday morning with a smile on my face.

The surgery lasted a little over three hours, and the surgeons were very confident with how well everything went. My family and Ben was very encouraged by Dr. Tafra's explanation of how she could not see or feel any diseased tissue, even though she suspected that microscopically, cancer would still be present. She was very pleased on how well the chemo appeared to have worked.

Recovery was quite a challenge. I was unfortunately in the recovery room for much longer than expected because my pain was not able to be brought under control. I was given so much morphine that I was starting to show signs of morphine toxicity, yet with unresolved pain control.

Over the next day in the hospital I was blessed with a nurse who became my advocate, tracked down my doctors, and changed all my pain prescriptions. Granted, I never really experienced total pain relief, but was at least able to get some rest for the first time after surgery. This nurse also made sure I was sent home with the same helpful medications.

Now it is Thursday evening, and I am sitting here wrapped up in Ace bandages, and still unable to sleep long stretches at a time due to significant pain, BUT God is so good to me. Dr. Tafra, my breast surgeon, called me yesterday to inform me that my breast tissue was dissected and there was not a single trace of cancer anywhere! Hallelujah!

This experience is a testament in my walk of faith to trust God with my life, and in every decision that I have been challenged with. The decision to do chemo first (neo adjuvant chemo) and then surgery has saved my life. It all makes sense to me now, and it has all been worth it, and I thank God for this opportunity to be used as an example of His amazing grace! Now I pray not only for my healing and pain to go away, but for my life to be used to share His hope with others I come in contact with.

More updates to come as I continue the healing process. Thanks again for your prayers and love.

Love Jami

“So do not fear, for I AM WITH YOU; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I Will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand! For I am the Lord, Your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, DO NOT FEAR; I WILL HELP YOU!” Isaiah 41:10 & 13.