I simply wanted to extend my support during this difficult time. I'm not certain if I am doing this in the right manner or not; forgive me if not. I read Michel's blog entry and felt I needed to say something. My mother was treated for breast cancer this past winter. She, like Sylvie, had a mastectomy. I thought I would share some of this woman's spirit with you.
When she was told she had cancer they offered to remove both breasts to prevent any occurrence later. After all, she's 77 years old so the risks are higher. She looked at the doctor and said, "sure, why not? Not like they're doing me any good these days anyway." She soon became quite well known around the doctor's offices for her sense of humor. In fact, during her last visit the doctor said he didn't expect her to go anywhere for quite some time. She was too darned stubborn and spunky.
She has handled the entire thing with courage, grace and that infamous sense of humor. I had to laugh the other day because she had my daughter come over to help her set up for a bridge game with the ladies. Nikki came in, flopped down on the couch, looked at me and said, "Well, she's your mother! I can't believe what she did!"
"What?" I asked, fully aware this was going to be good.
"We came in from going to the store and she pulled out that - that thing she wears in her bra, throws it on her bed and sighs, 'damn, it feels good to get rid of that boob!' I had to put it away for her."
I laughed and thought. Isn't that the same thing I said when my divorce was final?
This could not have come at a more difficult time for Mom. You see, all the women in her family died at the age of 77 so she fully expected to go too. Her mother, grandmother, three aunts...all at the same age. So, when the news of cancer arrived, we wondered if she might not simply give up and allow it to take her. I'm so grateful she chose to fight back.
The year is nearly over. She'll be 78 next month. I've noticed that her attitude is improving even as the year progresses. She's starting to make plans again rather than simply allowing life to happen. Considering that I just found out that I have severe Osteocronosis (bone death) in my legs, she's my hero. I figure if I do have part of my leg amputated, it is simply an opportunity. I too will move forward with that same spunk and attitude.
It sounds as though you will as well, Sylvie. Welcome to the sisterhood.
Beth