We got great news this week!

This was the week that I would learn the next stage of my journey. I am 8 weeks into my 16 week recovery timeline from the double mastectomy; and while I would never classify myself as fully recovered, I would say that I am doing well and right on schedule with my recovery plan.

We met with the oncologist on Thursday and honestly the news was as good as we could have hoped for. The surgery was a success, excellent margins, and the oncogene testing results made me cry (happy tears). The likelihood of my cancer returning is as low as anyone could wish for, and the next stage of treatment is better than I would have ever dreamed of.

There looks to be no need for chemo or radiation in my future. I will start hormone therapy by the end of the year, which will carry on for the next few years. I’ve found myself needing to pinch myself after writing or saying that. I just can’t believe how fortunate I am.

While I know there will be more hurdles ahead, and I appreciate the next treatment isn’t easy, we will simply accept the win and appreciate the calm that this brings our family. I truly feel blessed.

As for my return to work – I do not have a set date yet, but it will be much earlier in the new year than previously expected. I’m optimistic that I will be able to return to seeing patients sometime in January 2022. And that along with the love from friends and family is going to carry me through this next stage of my journey.

I’ve been asked a lot lately how you can continue to support me in my recovery. The best ways are by:

➡️ providing us with a meal (via the “skip the dishes” link) so I can gradually return to daily activities without over doing it.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/19F2mrGhL6T_13gNJI3vQ1a4DcvWuYOxb-_Kz93fOuvQ/edit?usp=drivesdk

➡️ donate or share the GoFundMe page, to allow me the opportunity to not rush back into work and take the time needed to overcome this. https://gofund.me/f173f274

➡️ setting up playdates with the kids

➡️ taking a moment to connect with me. Your positive messages, conversations, and time spent together, make this journey easier on me.

We cannot say thank you enough for your support and love. It means the world… it means more than the world to us ❤️

With gratitude,

Elna

PS – October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, so I would be remiss if I ended without reminding you to do routine checks and book your mammogram, as it truly saves lives!