Love..

At this moment, I have to talk about the amazing support I had at this point in my journey.  It's no secret that I have the most amazing husband ever.  I mean seriously, even on a "normal" day he is the best.  He is always been such a support for me, and during this time it was no different.  He was always there, doing whatever he could do to help ease my mind.  He loving washed my hair and combed in after my 2nd surgery when I could raise my hand without my breast feeling like it was going to burst.  When I went back to work, I would come out of the bathroom after brushing my teeth to him sitting on the edge of the bed, waiting to hook my bra for me, because I couldn't do it myself.  I rarely had to ask..he just knew, and he stepped in. 

Also, not a secret, but my family is so supportive.  I know it was hard for them, especially my mom to be so far away, but I always knew that they were in my corner and supporting me at every step.  Even without me asking, my Dad changed his return flight home from a business trip to a red eye to be there for surgery #2.  I told them it wasn't necessary, but I was deeply appreciative he was there too.  I worried about my brother.  He was so young when my Dad got sick and never talks about it, so I worried about how all of this might affect him.  He always remained positive and kept me laughing. My inlaws were just as supportive, my MIL began gathering information for me with her medical connections/knowledge, and was a great sounding board for me when I was overwhelmed by the information (or lack thereof) I was getting.  Both sides of the family constantly sent me positive texts, prayers, and love.

I missed 3 days in total with the 2 surgeries, and even when I returned with 6 days left in the year I was nowhere near 100%  Two of my teammates/friends truly were godsends.  They held down the fort for me and eased my mind, allowing me to really focus on me.  It was such a crazy time at school too, and I hated missing, but they were wonderful.  I felt bad for my partner teacher -- my kids grilled her about where I was (because I hardly ever miss school, and if I do, its usually a preplanned thing I tell them about)  She was able to keep them calm while being vague enough for me to come back and discuss it with therm. Two of my other friends were so supportive and loving.  Texts, dropping off sweets and school stuff, love and prayers.  I also could not have done it without my great admin and sub.  They checked in with me, sent love and prayers, and took care of scheduling my sub for me. My sub was sweet enough to text me pics of my class during the Schoolwide Chess Challenge!  My principal gave me the "Mom" speech not to overdo myself and to ask for help, with anything, whenever I needed.  It was comforting to have her support.

I am blessed. I am thankful. I am forever grateful. I have always been blessed to be so love and supported, but it definitely helps in times like this.  It made the next phase of my journey slightly more tolerable..