Laura Gress: New Lenox, IL

Age:  42

Reason for Reconstruction: I wanted to look feminine, feel normal, and look as close to my pre-surgery appearance as possible.

 

One thing I wish I would have known about  surgery: 

I wish I would have known how long my drains were going to be in for (17 weeks), and just how common infections and bumps in the road are in the reconstruction process.

One thing I wish I would have known about recovery: 

After my diep flap, I would not have know to expect lower back pain, but now it makes sense to me.

 

What brought me joy during my recovery: 

I absolutely loved listening to music on my recliner, having family and friends spend time with me, Starbucks strawberry refreshers, tacos, prepared meals by friends and family, thoughtful cards, watching the Sebastian Maniscalco comedy stand up special, and going for walks outside or at the gym as soon as I could.  One of the best things I experienced was when one of my close friends came over to do my hair and make up when I had a limited range of motion.

What was a trigger for me during my recovery: 

I am an extremely independent person, and when I could not go to the gym, drive, and was “stuck” in the house for a bit, I felt I was watching the rest of the world pass me by out of my window.  

Why did I choose my reconstruction pathway:

Based on my body type and having radiation, my plastic surgeon recommended diep flap reconstruction, and I truly couldn’t be happier. 

Biggest hurdle I faced and how I overcame it: 

I had drains in for 17 weeks post my double mastectomy, only to then need one of my tissue expanders taken out due to an infection.  I had radiation, and then had a new tissue expander placed, but the drain output would not decrease.  After 5 weeks, I demanded the drain be taking out to see if my body would naturally absorb the fluid.  It did not, and I started collecting fluid, and needed another drain placed to avoid another infection.  My surgery date was moved up to avoid further complications.  Having a drain in for 7 months out of the year was a huge challenge, but now I’m so grateful to be drain free.  It was not ideal, but I tried to make the best out of the situation.

Share any wisdom or advice you have for post-surgery appointments and doctor’s visits: 

I think talking to other breast cancer survivors so you know what questions to ask is a great idea, writing down your questions ahead of time, and try to make it fun.  If I was able, I went out to lunch at one of my favorite spots after my appointment.

The product(s) that saved me during recovery:

Some products that really saved me were the seat belt pillow for the car,  drain shower holder, drain pouches, drain apron, mastectomy wedge, mastectomy pillow, and button down comfy pajamas.  

My best piece of advice for anyone about to undergo their mastectomy:

Although it can be frightening, take it one day at a time.  As soon as you can start walking, going out, or doing things that make you feel normal, do it.  I think we are capable of more than we think we are.  

Anything else you want to share: 

I think being vulnerable is very important.  I am very independent, but was in a position where I physically needed help after surgery so I had to rely on friends and family for assistance.  I also think reaching out to a local cancer support center to connect with fellow breast cancer patients/survivors is a great sense of support.  It is so hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel when you are initially diagnosed, but keeping a strong faith, maintaining a sense of normalcy, and sprinkling in fun regardless of your circumstances is so important.  You should continue to surround yourself with the people you love, and continue to do the things that bring you joy.  Bad times don’t last forever, and if you look hard enough, you can always find joy in any situation.