My breast surgeon is retiring....

Today I had my last appointment with my wonderful breast surgeon who has been with me since my initial diagnosis in 2009.  He performed a lumpectomy then and then in 2011 when I had my recurrence he again performed surgery and did my mastectomy.  Two years later when I had my double reconstruction he was there again to perform the other mastectomy.  So he has been a part of my life for 6 1/2 years.  He's had to tell me twice I have had aggressive triple negative breast cancer. He has always been so caring and respectful and always listened to my concerns. I remember him stroking my arm before my first mastectomy (not in a wierd way), and telling the anaesthetist how I had had a really tough time when I was diagnosed the second time.  He is getting on and deserves his retirement.  He has been training a young new surgeon who surely has big shoes to fill.  Hopefully he has taught her well. 

I bought him a bottle of wine today to say thanks and he gave me a big hug and told me I had been through more than many and he admired me for how I had handled it all.  I must admit to leaving with a tear in my eye.

Even though I had the recurrence, I am still in awe of how he helped save my life.  I feel very grateful for having him in my life.  I feel very grateful to have been given my second chance twice (does that make it a third chance ;).   

To all you newbies out there take comfort in the fact that we live in a country with a good health care system and many talented surgeons. The road may seem long but trust me even with a few hiccups there is every chance that you like me will be telling your stories to other new ladies in years to come. 

love to you all.

Paula xxx