And...we're done

Yesterday I FINALLY had the final stages of my breast reconstruction. I had my nipple tattoos and my last dog ear cut off. When everything settles and heals I will FINALLY be complete! I feel like this entire process has always been in the back of my mind. Even though I haven't been near as immersed in the whole recon process as of late, it's always been in the back of my mind. Everytime I'd get undressed I'd look at my blank chest and feel a little odd. Like they're mine, but not. Now they'll look almost natural! I'm glad I can finally put this entire process behind me. But..not. I still want to be involved, in whatever way I can, with helping women who are going through this. I will never forget how scared I was when I was planning my PBM and recon and I don't want any women to feel that way. I feel like that God has allowed me to go through everything I did, so I may help others go through it. A lot of girls who have finished completely close their blogs. I still keep this one up and running, simply to update from time to time with things I think are interesting or pertinent to the HBOC community. For now, I'll leave you with somethings I've learned throughout this whole journey  
1- Be flexible. I started out with a clear cut plan of how things would go and boy did it ever go the complete opposite. Don't be afraid to change what you want or the timetable you want it in. Heck, I didn't want nipples and now? I'm SO glad I have them.

 2- Everyone is different. Every story, every journey. Just because someone is saying something was wrong for them, does not mean it's wrong for you. Sometimes, when women try to support each other, they end up trying to tell people what to do. Don't listen to it and go with your gut. YOU are the one who has to live with it!

 3- Please please please seek out support. Online, locally, whatever. This is a hard process to go through and no one can do it alone! It's there..trust me.

 4- Don't be afraid to tell your family and friends. You might be scared of what they'll say, but their reactions might surprise you (in a good way).  

5- That being said, there are some hateful people out there who think they can tell you what to do with your body. That's no bueno. Also, there's well meaning people who say things that you might think are offensive but they're really just trying to be supportive. Feel your emotions, definitely. But know that some things, come from a good place.

And like the Duke (John Wayne says):

Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway

I found this picture on the internet and I think this about sums up my situation. See you next time!