In March 2025 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had a mastectomy with reconstruction in May and had to have 2 emergency surgeries in that same month. The attempt to do reconstruction failed but I was blessed I didn't need chemo or radiation after further testing of the tumor and lymph nodes. I attempted reconstruction again in September of the same year and 7 weeks after my 4th surgery had to have emergency surgery again bc my body rejected the tissue expander for a second time. I am a private person and didn't initially share my diagnoses with everyone or the difficulties Chris and I faced. I am working on being more vulnerable even though I struggle with it daily. I have learned sharing my story has helped others. Since my diagnoses, a friend has been diagnosed and a neighbor is currently in stage 4... 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and the more open i am with my journey, I am learning breast cancer touches so many peoples lives. In August, after I have given time for my body to heal, I will be having my 5th surgery. I will have DIEP flap reconstruction surgery. The medical field is so fascinating bc I will have fat and skin taken from one part of my body to help rebuild what I lost in May of last year. This surgery requires a specialized surgeon who disconnects blood vessels from an area and reattaches them to the chest. I will have to stay in the hospital for a few days to ensure the flap survives. I am forever grateful for Chris for standing by my side during the most difficult years of our lives. I am so thankful for our family and friends that have been so helpful over the past year and a half. Chris and I truly appreciate it! We will be facing more medical bills and will need to purchase several medically necessary things such as a shower stool, bidet, and some other things i have added to an Amazon wishlist. If you’re able to offer assistance in any way I’d truly appreciate it.
Sam is vegan and Xzavier is allergic to eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, and shellfish.