Physical Therapy

I walked into a physical therapy evaluation 2 days ago for lymphedema and post surgery muscle strengthening. They poked a bit to check out my framework, and analyzed my posture..........which I thought was good until that point! Now I know that one leg is 3/8" longer than the other, and my back muscles need some serious strengthening! Hello to honesty!

Today I walked into physical therapy for my first session. I didn't know what to expect. I definitely didn't know I would need to put on a gown and get massaged by an Italian man! It was pretty funny.
He was extremely proper in making sure not to overstretch me. Every time I flintched, he considered my pain. He might think I'm a little "off" for not complaining. I suppose after 7 surgeries, one learns to have a high threshold for pain.

I did learn a great deal about the lymphatic system, and how simple massaging can help tremendously with circulation to thus avoid lymphedema.
Lymphedema is swelling of the lymph passages - (a.k.a.) Lymphatic obstruction, a blockage of the lymph nodes (vessels that drain fluid from tissues throughout the body and allow immune cells to travel where they are needed).

Just when I thought I knew everything about cancer and after effects..........they tell me something new. Go figure!

Take it Easy!

Today, after a month of recovery, I started back to work. I may have overdone it a little bit. Towards the latter part of the day when I lifted my bag, my left breast muscles yelled out to me that I need not turn and lift that way! Needless to say, when I got home, I had to take something to help with the pain. I still think I am superwoman! Why is it that we can be so stubborn?! Tomorrow......and the days to follow, I have to be more careful. At least I know that silicone can't burst, but muscles can tear! Learned lesson for today: I am lucky to be healthy and we can prevent the preventable. Take it easy!

A new start

I am sitting here, trying to figure out the best way to get my story out. I have finally come to the realization that I can't help others unless I make my story, and myself known.

I am one month out of surgery from breast reconstruction, after a double mastectomy. Wow, when you think you are invincible, this sure is a wake up call!

I am enjoying a few more days before returning to the working world. I feel much better than I anticipated.

Anyone who is going through cancer treatment, is a survivor, or family and friends of these fighters........please have them follow my blog. Even though I'm 30, I feel that I have a good insight of what it is to have cancer, and cope with all of the fun that goes along with it.