Well today I am humbled by this date and very excited at the same time.
September 24th- I went in for my yearly pap smear.
I lied down as the doctor did my breast exam starting on the right side
Me: What?
Doctor then took my hand and led it to my right nipple where I felt something very strange like rubber.
Me: No
Doctor: Well I'm going to have the nurse get you an appointment at the breast center before you leave today.
Me: OK
this portion of my appointment I have no memory of - pap smear never went so smooth
the next thing I remember is this conversation
Me: What could that be?
Doctor: it could be a cyst, but I'm unsure so that's why I want you to go to the breast center as soon as they can get you in. I'm going to suggest they get you in as soon as today.
Me: Should I start Mammograms now that I'm 40? Duh Danielle- why I asked that?- I think I was still in shock.
Doctor: We'll discuss that after you have your appointment at the breast center, but yes 40 is when we would usually start mammograms.
Me: Thank you Dr. Farrell
Nurse: They can see you Monday at 2:00
Me: took the card she gave me with my appointment
I walked to my car got in and cried as I thought about Lucas and if I have breast cancer who will take care of him? I cried hard.
That day was the start of some really hard days
When I got home I kept touching it and then I could feel there were 2 spots that seem connected- I was so disgusted. How could I have not known? I had pain in that breast like no pain ever before- to the point of having bent over in pain.
And then I posted this- and I'm so grateful for all my girlfriends who supported and prayed for me.
Today during the day I will be stopping off at Dr. Farrell's office to drop him off a note and flowers. Dr. Farrell is my doctor because he is so kind and a great doctor.
Here is my note:
Dr. Farrell
One year ago today you found a lump in my breast and in your most calming way you showed it to me and set me up with an appointment at the Breast Center. You saved my life by doing that breast exam and I am eternally thankful for that. You were there for the best day of my life; when my son Lucas was born. You were also there on one of the worse days of my life; and I couldn't ask for a more caring and loving individual to be a part of all that.
You called me after my diagnosis and although I wasn't home I felt such joy and gratitude!
I wanted to get you something, but honestly had not a clue so flowers were my choice. I'm hoping you will give these flowers to your wife (from you) because you saved someones wife and they too are eternally grateful.
So you enjoy your beautiful wife tonight - because my husband Rob will be enjoying his beautiful wife tonight thanks to you.
God Bless You
Danielle Podrazil
