Lymph Node Surgery

Yesterday I add Axillary Lymph Node Surgery. They removed all lymph nodes from the left arm pit area. Some of them are under the shoulder blade as well as under the pec muscle in the outer chest area so healing can take time. This week my goal is rest and keeping ahead of the pain. Nick has been amazing; I’m blessed to have him helping me.

They inserted a drain to allow fluid to drain so every six hours or so he helps me measure, track and empty the drain. They said I may have the drain for 3-4 weeks but maybe less.

I’m eager to see the lab results. That should help indicate how well chemotherapy worked. How much, if any, cancer did they find? What is living cancer or dead? Praying for good results!

Once it’s more healed I’ll need to to exercises to regain movement in the shoulder. Some people experience life long limited range of motion from that arm so I’ll do my best to start those exercises when I get the green light.

I won’t know if I’ll develop lymphedema and to what extent for some time. I need to buck up and wear the sleeve as soon as they tell me to. I’ve been measured and have them on hand.

After this surgery I’m officially down to three steps left: Radiation, pill medicines (chemo pill, etc), and reconstruction. My body gets four weeks of healing before daily radiation starts. However in two weeks I start a few appointments to get all measured and tested for radiation.

My goal is to feel well enough to start back at work part time starting in two weeks. This Thanksgiving feels different than most but I’m grateful for so much, flexible and loving family is at the top of the list.

Happy Thanksgiving 🦃🍁