Some kind readers have been asking for an update to this post.
My original appointment was rescheduled to today - so I had no news to give until now.
I met with the surgeon this morning who was very nice and gave me concrete advice - which to be honest, hasn't been all that forthcoming in the medical arenas that we've been dealing with in the last while. It's like they (as in the collective, medical 'they') are afraid to give advice, in case it proves to be erroneous and you sue them!
This medical/legal fear is not a helpful environment in which anxious patients (that would be me) are able to make sound decisions on their own medical treatment.
I went in to that office with a 'just tell me what to do' mentality - and I'm happy to have left with a clear plan.
The surgeon considers me low risk for anything sinister (I can't bring myself to type it, but you know what I'm talking about). This in itself is reassuring, and is something that nobody else was prepared to say.
However, he was very mindful of my level of anxiety over this whole thing. That's not to say I spend every waking moment in fear of it - I do not - but it does take over my thoughts several times a day, and sometimes at night.
Evidently I don't do not knowing very well.
I will go ahead and have what is called a stereotactic biopsy. Even though it's unlikely to be malignant - I need to know one way or the other. If it's not - then I've got my peace of mind - and I continue with regular mammography checks. If it is, then I haven't let it fester for four additional months. I feel better either way - that I'm being positive and proactive about it.
So, more waiting and a weird procedure on the horizon - but if it helps preserve my sometimes fragile mental health (and I'm only half joking!), then it's a good thing.
Thank you to those of you who asked about this, I appreciate it.
Will keep you posted.
In the meantime - if there is any woman reading this, who is over 35 and has not yet had their first mammogram done - go get the phone and make that appointment now. If you are overdue for an annual mammogram - again, get calling your docs office. NOW!
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Annie
6 comments:
You always sound so composed and rational in your blog posts. It's hard to imagine you a bag of anxiety. I guess blogging might be one way you sort out your thoughts and feelings.
I'm glad you've taken the next step on this. I know what you mean re not getting straight advice. It can be so frustrating.
Thanks for the update. Keep strong, you will be fine! I just know it!
Hugs!
Found you through "overhaul"
Interesting to read of you being in africa and europe. Same here! Born in Norway, lived in Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, and the States. Now living in Holland. Where did you live?
Hope you get the medical all clear!
I'm glad you are getting it checked out if nothing but for peace of mind.
Sorry I've been MIA lately; thank you for the update on how you're doing.
Stay strong, and I'll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
How are you doing, love? Haven't heard from you in a long time and I hope it isn't ominous. Write a post updating us when you can.
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