Breast Cancer Retreat

I attended a breast cancer retreat last weekend (Feb. 27 - Mar. 2) and it was exactly what I needed!!

I have to tout this nonprofit organization called Sister's HOPE (Healing Opportunities through Personal Enrichment) and it's founders because it provides a much needed service to breast cancer survivors.  Warning: I'm basing these next few sentences from recollection, so I hope my brain hasn't failed me like it has after treatments.  This organization was started by one sister who was diagnosed with breast cancer and did not know what to do next after treatments.  (I totally understand where she was coming from.)  She wanted/needed something that could help women move forward in their new role as a survivor.  After she passed away, her two sisters and parents are keeping her dream alive by continue this organization.  What awesome people they are to change their lives in order to better others' lives!

I came to the retreat with unsettled thoughts and feelings about my life as it is and for my future and left with attainable goals to pursue; strength and encouragement; and amazing, lifelong sister survivors.

The weekend started with us telling our stories:  where we've been and where we are currently.  There were eight participants and four volunteers.  This night was draining.  Hearing the struggles, pains and joys of the other women drew me closer to them right from the start.  We all endured so much during treatments and life itself.  It was inspiring and encouraging for me to witness the ladies courage and vulnerability; and we didn't even know one another.

We stayed at the beautiful Schoolhouse Bed & Breakfast in Rocheport, MO.  We had great meals prepared for us...LOVED that! We did yoga each morning and night; walked the Katy Trail; and my favorite part was receiving massages after a day and a half of intense self-reflection and exploration through group interaction.  There was also time for laughter, tears and relaxation...oh...and show & tell.  Several of us bared our breasts to show the work of our surgeons.  This part was very helpful to me, since I am in the middle of the reconstruction phase.  I learned a lot about the different types of reconstruction and nipple tattoos.  I couldn't have asked for a better weekend.  I am so glad there are organizations like this out there for survivors because we need it!!

I look forward to staying connected with these ladies as we each continue our journeys and hearing about the ups and downs of survivorship.

Update
My next surgery where the silicone implants will replace the expanders is scheduled for March 31, 2014.  I'm excited for this next step!  Prayers for a quick and easy recovery would be appreciated!!