31 Days of Pink: The Turning Point

"In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind."

Job 12:10

It is day 26 of 31, and I  have not mentioned THE most important thing in my healing process and thus, the turning point back to an active daily life after surgeries and treatment....Physical Therapy!! If you have had a mastectomy, chemo, radiation this is essential, it made a huge difference in my recovery! 

My muscles were mush after months of limited activity. Had I not been working for a physical therapy company (none other than TherapySouth, the best there is), I would not have known I had the option. I tried to walk as much as I could, but that was clearly not enough.  I can remember feeling so better after the first time going. Those first appointments were a little challenging but it was worth it..thank you, Allison!!  I felt I was finally able to do something to start rebuilding my body and that did alot for my attitude as well!  I also remember catching a glimpse of myself in the mirror and thinking "Suz, you look 90 years old all hunched over!" 

I started my PT about two months after surgery and chemo treatments and got a physician referral from my oncologist. It helped restore my arm strength and range of motion and reduced the stiffness I felt from being so sedentary.  It also helped to strengthen my muscles and work on my posture. Hmmm, and I was slowly transformed  back to my thirties..haha!

Lymphadema is a risk for any breast cancer patient and keeping a close watch on your arm for swelling is very important. If you do get Lymphadema, talk with your oncologist immediately to get a referral for PT with a certified lymphadema specialist, ASAP!

I am the biggest advocate there is for this..seeing women struggling and not regaining the strength and energy that is possible through physical therapy....it  just doesn't have to be that way!!! I am a repeat customer too, chemotherapy does a number on the body and can cause all kind of after effects, so breast cancer patients may need a PT years out from the process, especially if they never went. I have seen my co-workers, I mean PT, (smile) for my neck (migraines, helped tremendously) and my knee (well you know I just ran a 5k). 

Physical Therapy for Breast Cancer Patients is Essential!!!

I am happy to say that TherapySouth launched a Breast Cancer Rehabilitation Program alongside our Women's Health/ Pelvic Floor Program at our Vestavia Clinic this August!

You know, we never know the plans that God has for us, He just asks us to join Him in His plan and be obedient . When I took this marketing job, six months before being diagnosed with breast cancer, I had no idea that it would develop into such a fulfilling career. Because of the supportive leaders, who are my coworkers,that I learn from, am challenged by and just plain love being around, I continually thank God for placing me right where I needed to be at the right time, with the right people. What a blessing! I do not take it lightly. Six and a half years later...Thankful, very thankful. 

Blessings,
Suzanne

"The word of the Lord is right and true; he is faithful in all he does." Psalm 33:4