Yoga Today
I have to say that yoga was a "stretch" today. It felt great and I think I should really try to do this daily... maybe after the 3 Day...

Tonight I was asked to speak about my cancer journey at a very special fundraiser for Step-by-Step, a women's a cappella singing group. These women have extraordinary voices and use their music to serve God though their prison ministry. I am honored to be asked, especially since today is yet another milestone for me.

Looking Back ~ Looking Forward
One year ago this morning, I lost both of my breasts. Well, I didn’t actually lose them since I know exactly where I left them… along with the malignancy that had invaded one. At Baylor Dallas…

My first bout of breast cancer was in 1999. Having already had six separate malignancies as well as the high doses of radiation treatments, I knew I was at high risk for a recurrence. And, because I insisted on having a breast MRI, my breast cancer recurrence was found in an early stage (the mammogram failed to find it since it was outside the mammogram field).

So, reflecting back, I feel very blessed to have had early detection, a successful bi-lateral mastectomy with a quick recovery and to feel as healthy today as I ever have!

I’d also like to say that last year, I missed walking in the annual Komen Race for the Cure which was the day after my surgery. But, I was up early that Saturday morning and I watched the sea of pink shirts and hats go the distance on the TV from my hospital bed. It was bittersweet for me to just lie there, feeling pretty darn good (I was still on morphine at that point) and wishing I was out there along with the other 26,000 people walking for a cure…. I really should have been there…

Even though cancer is just about the most “unfunny” thing that can happen to someone, humorous things do happen. Since I chose not to have breast reconstruction, I have found the lighter side (pun intended) of being a “breastless” cancer survivor. After my surgery, I bought a pair of fake boobs on Ebay for just $50 (including shipping). When I read the description on the listing, it said great for mastectomy patients and cross dressers!

And, I recently told my husband Richard that I bet he didn’t know of any other husband who has a “wife with accessories”!

Daily, these breast surgery scars along with all the others I have, remind me of just how blessed I am to still be here. My boobs may be gone, but I’m not!

Live as brave men; and if fortune is adverse, front its blows with brave hearts. ~ Cicero