December 18: Week 7

Over the past week there were more appointments, a quick getaway with a friend, and a big step with my hair! I had to do another biopsy for an additional spot that was found through my MRI. It was much different as it was an MRI guided biopsy rather than the ultrasound like the last two. This one was quite a bit more uncomfortable and super sore after, but now it’s done! I’m thankful to have it over with and for nurses that are so kind and understanding! I also had another ultrasound to check my gallbladder as they found it to be inflamed on my echo test. We will see the results of that in the coming days. Lastly, I was concerned about the cancer mass getting larger as we wait for treatments to start. My team at Mayo is so awesome and understanding. I messaged and then snuck me in for a quick check to measure things. It has grown, but not at a rate that is too alarming to them. So thankful for this team and their second to none care! I am grateful I was able to get away for a few days with a dear friend and even got to see my cousin! It was so calming. When life throws you big curve balls, take the trips you planned before everything got crazy! Tonight was the final big moment of the week. My incredible hair stylist, Katlyn, helped me to take the first step with my hair. I have been told over and over by my team that I will lose my hair. Believe me, I asked many, many times. I knew that with this coming I wanted to have some control. I love my long hair and it’s part of who I am. It’s not “just” hair to me. However, if I can’t have it, then I decided to donate it. Tonight Kaitlyn was compassionate and my sweet friend even dropped off flowers. Dave and Harper joined as my hype squad and Harper even got to cut one of the sections to donate! I’m so thankful for a stylist who has become a friend and is on this journey with me! Final thought for the night….I received a text from a dear friend tonight that made me know I need to keep sharing . She said I could share this with you all: “ So I just want to tell you that I went in for a mammogram after you came out with everything you're going through. Yesterday when we were talking I wanted to tell you I was going in today for my second mammogram and ultrasound because they had found abnormalitis. My appointments were today. Thankfully they came back with a positive result. So now what terrified me is now me fighting for you! Thank you for being up front and making people aware! “ Let this be your reminder to get checked!! #myjourney #breastcancerawareness #earlydetection