What I've Learned so far is there is a lot to learn as you go through Breast Cancer.  Some is good and some not so much.  It's more then just going to doctors, having tests, and gathering information.  It's about what works for you personally and what you need to get you through.  Here are some of the things I have learned so far and what I am still learning along the way....

*I AM A SURVIVOR!!

*Attitude is EVERYTHING!!!

*Bottom line:  You can still enjoy life regardless of what you are going through.

*Trust your heart in whatever decisions you make as you learn the facts and knowledge about your individual Breast Cancer.  Whatever you choose, stand behind that decision and know that what you did is right for you.

*Exercise patience:  I am still working on this one.  Things don't always move as fast as you'd hope.

*Zip-up clothing is the best, especially zip-up hoodies.

*Little things like coughing, sneezing, yelling at your favorite sports team when they stink, etc, does hurt a while after surgery.

*Follow all your doctor's orders and instructions.  Healing happens a lot faster that way with potentially less complications down the road.

*Reach out to others going through Breast Cancer.  Join Breast Cancer websites, forums, etc.  You'd be surprised at how many people are going through it or have already been through it. 

*Let people help you and don't be afraid to ask them when you need help. 

*Cherish showers.  After surgery, you don't get to take one for a while.

*Abs get in shape quick after surgery.  Arms can't be used to push you up so rely on those abs.

*Stock up on good books, magazines and movies. 

*Your skin takes a beating after surgery.  Stock up on your favorite lotion or cream.  You will need it.

*Write it down.  Even if it seems silly now, everything that happens in your journey is important and you will be happy you have the memories (good & bad) later on.

*Surgical drains are an important part of the recovery but they still stink and are not fun.  However, feel free to celebrate when they come out.  It's a good day.

*You are a survivor when you say you are.

*Wear pink proudly.

*Chemo makes things taste weird, potentially.  Let yourself eat what tastes good, regardless of what it might be and keep hard candies around too.  That seems to help.

*Before starting Chemo, stock up on ALL the medications, drugs, and over-the-counter needs they recommend for whatever side-affects that may happen.  Believe me, you will be thankful you have it all in stock...even if you think whatever they say won't apply to you.  It will.

*Chemo #2 definitely stinks more then the first.  I am sure #3 will stink more then #2 and so on, however, I do know one thing.  You do end up feeling better at some point and the bad part goes away.  There is a light at the end of that chemo tunnel!!

*The last chemo is the worst (no surprise there) but you make it through.  You have no choice and you accept it.  Plus, there isn't another one lingering around the corner.

*When you feel your worse and it seems it can't get any worse, it may.  When you think that it won't ever get better and you won't ever feel like yourself again, the good news is it does get better and so will you.  It may just take time.

*Friends and family make all the difference.  All of it.   There are no other words to describe that.