Ruth - Decision,

[Guest guest]

,

Yes, it was a difficult decision and if I were in your situation would

have probably chosen the road you are taking. I have a small build

and breasts. I do not wear a bra and the small implants will allow me

to continue braless, which is an important consideration for me. I do

not want this disease to change my life style. I, also, work out a

great deal, though imagine the workourt will have to change some what

after the mastectomy, but I do want to keep my body in the best shape

possible through exercise and healthy eating, which is already part of

my life style. Thanks for your words of encouragement.

Ruth

>

> Ruth,

>

> I'm glad you came to your decision. It is a difficult one. I took

1 1/2

> years to make my decision (after bilateral mastectomies). I've

decided to

> focus on reconstructing myself, not my breasts.

>

> I just started a personal trainer at our local sports & rehabilitation

> center yesterday. So I will focus now on strengthening the 117 lbs

of body I do

> have. I'm her first BC client, and she's as excited as I am in

developing a

> program, specially with lymphedema risks and range of motion

issues. Glad to

> hear you're going to work that shoulder (gently) before your

intended surgery.

>

> I am proud of you Ruth - I think it's wonder that you're having

> reconstruction, really I do. It is an extremely PERSONAL decision

and difficult to make.

> I have read the success stories, and I wish you a recovery filled

with

> optimism and hope.

>

> I'm in the developing stages right now for a new " bra " for women

like me

> who've undergone double surgery. may have her " secret, "

but I have NO

> secret to hid. This is me, take me for what I am (although I do

want pretty,

> feminine options for these " phantom " breasts! I'm still a woman!!!

>

>

>

> Best,

>

>