That brings me to today, Wednesday, marking one week since the surgery, post op day 7. I have to admit I feel much better than I expected. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I didn’t expect to be this functional so quickly. The pain has been manageable with Tylenol and even that I have spaced out. I do find myself still getting tired a bit easily requiring an afternoon nap but still on the road to recovery. I will have my surgery follow up appointment on Thursday to see how things are progressing. My neck is sooo much better! The tape used to close the incision is visible but really not that noticeable and the bruising and swelling has disappeared. Em's advice to me is always, remember you are FEARLESS, in this case neck scar or not. (She even gave me a shirt to remind me.)
Now the most important thing I need to say is THANK YOU. Yes I mean to shout because I can’t articulate how touching, moving, and essential the support of my family, friends, friends of friends, physicians, and even strangers has been to my recovery. Not only my recovery from the surgery but coping with the diagnosis of cancer, even if it is “just papillary thyroid cancer”. Everyone has been there for moments to laugh with me, cry with me, distract me, and give me that all needed hug. (I am a hugger and believe a hug can make anything better, at least for a moment.) Special thanks go to my Mom, Dad and Em who made the trek to NYC to be with me. They made sure I was getting out of bed, made sure I showered, made sure I got out of the apartment for fresh air (but not for too long), made sure I was fed, made sure Morrie was fed, and were kind enough to document the whole thing! They were awesome, amazing, and couldn’t have asked for a better team! I love my family!