The Short Version

Going to Sloan-Kettering was SO worth it. The short version is that Dr. Heerdt was wonderful. She talked to us about the option of a lumpectomy. It was music to our ears.

I will have some additional imaging done so that we can see what's going on inside, but based on what she could feel and the "incredible" response I had to the chemotherapy, she believes that a lumpectomy is worth a try. If we get clean margins, then it's perfect. If not, they can try again to get clean margins (which I think she said happens about 10% of the time). The 3rd if; IF there's more there than they think, a mastectomy may in fact be the best option with immediate reconstruction.

What really struck me about Dr. Heerdt was that she shared our philosophy of wanting to do enough to not have cancer again but not to do too much. I felt like she had said a lot of things that we had been thinking and talking about. She brought logic more into the equation for me. And the simple fact that a lumpectomy is on the table again so wonderful. I would rather try to preserve as much of me as possible than just go for broke and have the mastectomy at the first. Even if it doesn't end that way, I know I'll feel better for trying and investigating the option.

Getting a second opinion was BEYOND worth the trip, the early wake up, the juggling of schedules, any stress... it was SO worth it. It was satisfying to know we are not crazy thinking that a lumpectomy is an option. I can't say it enough; I'm so glad we went to Sloan-Kettering.