It turned out I had Stage 3A Lobular cancer with minimal lymph node involvement. I opted for a bi-lateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. This would be my first attempt to look to the future with a 'whole body'. I just wanted to look like a woman, (albeit with strange looking, patchwork breasts) for Cal. He always told he loved me, not my breasts, but I thought it would make me feel more normal. Through it all he has been my rock. His faith in me was unwavering. He never let me lose faith in myself. Times that I just wanted to curl up and never get up again and give in to the self-pity and fear, he pushed me to keep going. Without him, I doubt I would have had the strength to endure my treatment plan. With him, my boys, our families and wonderful friends I somehow made it through it all.
Fast forward three years. I had survived six months of grueling chemotherapy, 34 radiation treatments, 10 surgeries, including a total hysterectomy last fall. I decided it was time to be done with being sick and I wanted to get my body back to being healthy and in the best shape ever! I have a 50th birthday coming up and I want to be strong and fit so hopefully I can have many more. I don't dread turning 50. I'm just thrilled to still be here to celebrate it.
At the beginning of this year, Cal and I joined The GYM, a fitness center in Dubuque, Iowa. Cal had gone with my son Alex as a guest and was very impressed with the place and wanted me to join too so we could go together. We have been working out religiously ever since. I have been working out with one of the personal trainers, Tony Summer. I work out 5-7 times a week, usually for an hour and a half a day. On days I can't get there, I walked outside and lift weights at home. My poor out-of-shape body had been through it all, but after the initial shock and pain and exhaustion ended I saw my energy levels soar and my stamina improve every time I work out. I spend the majority of my time on the elliptical and treadmill machines doing cardio work-outs. With the help of Tony, I have incorporated weight and strength training. He even read a book on fitness for breast cancer survivors to better understand my challenges and concerns.
