I found a lump in my left breast in July 2013 and after a Mammogram and a biopsy, I was diagnosed with IDC on August 9 2013. I was devastated, I spent two days in tears and then spent hours researching my options . My mother and grandmother both had breast cancer and I decided to have a double mastectomy. I chose to have Autologous Reconstruction at the time of my mastectomy. This option was not available to me where I live in Florida and I would have to spend 3 weeks in New York.
A group of my friends launched "Operation Comfort and Love" and this Mission would make sure that my family and I were not alone through this process. The love I felt was overwhelming. When we arrived at the hotel 2 days before surgery there was a parcel and a note waiting for me.When I checked into the Hospital there was a big poster and cards to put up in my room. Later in the week they sent gift cards, flowers and a beautiful You Tube video with inspirational messages.When we left the Hospital and arrived at our condo,our "home" for the next 2 weeks, there was a care package waiting for me. My kids flew up that day, and the package was full of treats and activities that we could do as a family for the week. I felt their love and drew strength from them every step of the way. They planned a meal train and had friends sign up to deliver meals to my family for 6 weeks following my surgery.
It's now 8 weeks since my surgery. I am recovering well and don't need Chemo. I will forever be grateful to the "Spies Who Love Me". It raised awareness amongst all of them for early detection, and planning every step of the 'Mission" changed all of their lives forever.
Sarasota, FL