The surgeon who removed the Lump and lymph nodes checked my mammogram and did a quick physical examination of my breasts and underarms. He said the mammogram didn't show anything suspicious, but he would like to see me again in four months.
My left breast has swollen to roughly twice the size of my right one. The oedema (aka dropsy) is because of radiation; scarring from radiation and surgery block the normal pathways for fluid to drain. Tissues and vessels will likely heal within a couple years. If the swelling isn't reduced by then, a plastic surgeon can adjust the size of that breast to match the other.
There are aches and pains in my arm, underarm, shoulder, chest, ribs, heart, neck. All in all, these pains are only mildly unpleasant, though I find myself getting angry every time I describe them. Why? Well, because the cancer drama isn't over.
Here's to a wonderful warm holiday! I wish all the best for this cold and dark season. Cheers!
