February 9, 2005

I'm back! :)
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR PRAYERS! I am so blessed!
Physically, I am still healing. The two incisions are healing well, and the swelling has almost ceased. I must admit that I am very pleased with the surgery (the way I Iook.) But I am struggling with full use of my right arm. I thought the wounds would be the major pain, but I was mistaken. I am unable to perform tasks that use the pectoral muscle. I was surprised that my small motor skills were even effected. After a few pouts, I am accepting the fact that it may be a while before it works again. I am trying my best to slowly strengthen that muscle.
The last few days have definitely been a learning experience for me. God is teaching me how to be patient with my healing. I am sometimes a stubborn daughter.
This is what I am learning...
I am learning how to use my left hand better.
I am learning what movement the pectoral muscle performs. This has given me a great appreciation of how intricate God has made our bodies. (ex. I can lift a light object, but I have a hard time writing.)
I am learning to be happy that I am able to do my own hair, even if it looks all messy (try doing your hair with the opposite hand and you'll know what I mean.)
I am learning that my prayer for others decreases my own pain and fear.
Again, thank you for your prayers and words of encouragement. This coming Monday, we will be meeting with Dr. Dietz to go over the surgery. We are praying that the margins around the mass were completely cleared of cancer (oh, and those lymph nodes, too.)
Love, Alicia