I realized I was noticing a change in my left breast around late Oct 2024 and got an appt with my gyn so I could schedule a mammogram. That happened early January and a whirlwind since then with more mammograms, ultrasound, biopsy, MRI’s, Dr appointments and a diagnosis of breast cancer. Whew. So, I'm having a bilateral mastectomy with immediate DIEP Flap reconstruction to rid my devious tata's of Invasive Mammary Carcinoma on St Patrick’s Day, 3/17/25 at Fairfax Hospital. DIEP Flap reconstruction is using my own stomach tissue, so I will not need expanders or implants or new floobs 20 years down the road at 66?!?!? The tissue removed will be sent in for more testing and then determine if I will need chemo or radiation but hopeful they will be able to cut out all the invasive cancers in there. I am required to stay 48 hours after to ensure the newly connected blood vessels are thriving in my new belly boobs. Lord willing, I will be heading home on Wed eve, 3/19 to spend the next 8(ish?) weeks recovering. This body is just a loaner - so I'm happy for the opportunity to be able to extend my warranty on it a lil longer. I've got two of the best surgeons (Dr. Stephanie Akbari & Dr. Frank Albino - the A team if you will) in our area lined up and am excited/scared/nervous/overwhelmed/anxious/hopeful to see their work! My sister (Chris Sweeney) is flying in on the 19th to stay with me for a couple weeks (bless her heart for taking this first shift!), then my friend (Dawn Farrell) is coming to stay April 6-9 from Chicago! Followed by the Lisa’s. Lisa Staton will come for a few days then Lisa Wood for a few after that. Plus whoever wants to come sit & visit with me during the day while I heal. I'm told the first 3 weeks will be difficult but I'm ready for it! I'm not worried one bit, because I've been surrounded and supported by such amazing people in my life. It's going to be hard accepting all this help (cuz I'm the helper darn it), but I know I'm gonna need it. So please ignore my mess and stop by (I swear I was going to get it all taken care of in that extra hour we sprung forward). I’m going to have major FOMO while I’m down and out! Thank you in advance from the bottom of my heart for all your generosity, prayers and kind thoughts.