I got the results of the Genetic BRCA test back yesterday. It turns out that I DO carry the BRCA 2 gene. Wow. That news was not what I expected at all.
I was "pretty upset" when I heard the news (THAT sure is an understatement!) As Dr. Morgan spoke over the phone, I started feeling like I was having one huge hot flash in every part of my body....then like I was going to puke...then like I was going to faint. The next couple of hours were like a blur, like I was watching my life from the outside looking in. I went through the day's motions in a daze. I just needed to keep going on with my day's normal routine. I took Eli to Rita's for a gelati, then to get a hair cut, then to the library, then to Marshall's where I bought myself a new purse! Nothing like a new purse to cheer a girl up! "Aunt Sue" came over in the afternoon and she, Eli, and I took a long hike at High Rocks. It was incredible and it put my feet back on the ground.
"Part of being optimistic is keeping one's head toward the sun, one's feet moving forward." Nelson Mandela
Life goes on for us and I know this is all happening for a very good reason and that God has me/us all in His VERY CAPABLE hands and He has NOT forsaken us!
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified...for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Deuteronomy 31:6
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified...for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Deuteronomy 31:6
(Of course at times I am fearful of what lies ahead but mostly I am feeling at peace, and grateful for so many things.)
I'll be going to Fox Chase Cancer Center on Tuesday 8/20 for a 2nd opinion, but I am pretty much looking at a double mastectomy w/reconstructive surgery in the not-so-distant future.
I reiterate, wow.
Annie,
ReplyDeleteJust read this...feeling with you as you absorb this latest info. Praying....love that you went hiking & are keeping grounded (no pun intended.) One day at a time, as you realize.
Sending love & hugs, -Maaike
Annnnie!
ReplyDeleteStay strong and keep moving forward. Lots of positive thoughts and prayers your way. Xxoo
Lori
Thinking of you Annie and praying of course! Now is the time to prioritize...take the time you need. School will be there when you are ready. Love to you!
ReplyDeleteCindy
Annie, I was so absolutely positively sure you won't have the genetic predisposition! It comes to me as a shock too! Well, let's see what happens on Tuesday, so you can get this over with and pick your doctor and move it along. I'll be with you on your journey!
ReplyDeleteIt's going to be a Wild ride.
Just remember you're not alone in any of this, sweetie. (Drew was with me at a doctor's office when I received my first diagnosis of ovarian cancer. I was so calm and factual while in the office talking with the doctor. It hit after we left, the moment the door clicked shut behind us: I suddenly couldn't breathe. The tears came out of nowhere.) Normalcy -- yes, gelato, purses and for me, book designing -- are lifesavers! One step at a time, and know that it will all be OK. No, *better* than OK. Sending love. Judy
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