I continue to keep up with the evolving changes as each day passes and numbers, plans, surgeries, and lives change due to the coronavirus outbreak. I think it’s fair to say we are called on to change in ways none of us are prepared for. Here is what happened in the past week and what I am grateful for, sad about, and what I have witnessed firsthand in the breast reconstruction community, a community of strength through the coronavirus outbreak.
Breast Reconstruction Surgeries Cancelled During the Coronavirus
I spent a great deal of time planning for my DIEP flap surgery in the fall of 2014. I traveled for my breast reconstruction. I had to arrange flights for myself and my husband. Asking friends and family to take off work or come to help was a tough one for me. Then there was the anticipation. Oh, the anticipation!
All of that vanished for a lot of breast reconstruction patients in one phone call this past week. Here is what some said:
- I know this is for my protection, but I am in tears.
- I have been waiting since 2018 to have this surgery. I have spent 2 months working overtime to be able to be off from my job the required time.
- I feel like the chaos surrounding the coronavirus is making things worse.
This response is from two ladies who were waiting to hear about the status of their DIEP flap surgeries:
“…totally with you on this. Every time the phone rings I tense up.”
A Community Rallied for Others During the Coronavirus
One woman was scheduled to have her double mastectomy on the Facebook group I am referencing here where so many had their surgeries cancelled. What happened next was heartwarming. She told the group: “My husband isn’t even allowed to stay in the hospital. He has to drop me off and then pick me up if they discharge me.”
The group started making a flurry of signs for her in support to let her know she was not alone. Here are just a few of the heartwarming messages from across the world:
Healthcare Workers in our Community During the Coronavirus
Then there were the healthcare workers. They would share updates with me as each day brought new changes. We watched the evolving news on the coronavirus virtually via phone calls, texts, and private messages. I would share these updates from each of them to keep the members of the Journey informed. Women and men continued to have questions about their upcoming reconstruction, procedures, and treatment. They were there for us continuing to bring us peace of mind. I am so grateful to them all.
They have carried the weight, responsibility, and emotion of not only their patients but staff, friends, and family members. I think about the fact they are in hospitals and clinics taking extra measures of safety to ensure their patients are safe by disinfecting, wearing personal protective equipment and knowing about the shortages of medical supplies. They are at potential risk to themselves as they try to remain healthy for their loved ones at home. They are our heroes in the community of breast cancer and breast reconstruction patients. One of my favorite photos this week was from a physician assistant at the group I went to for my DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Thank you Ginger!
These are difficult times during the coronavirus outbreak. There is no sugar coating the fact this is beginning to wear on us all emotionally. I see waves of comical posts mixed with utter fear when a friend tests positive with the virus.
All we can do is try to stay connected with each other the best way we know how via online apps, groups, and mobile connectedness. It seems so crazy our best friends who are just a short drive away from us across town are now joining us via Whats App to take a “virtual walk” with us so we can see them and check in on them. I moved back to Seattle to be near my family. I didn’t like being so far away and having to Face Time my grandchildren. I am back to doing Face Time with them now, but I know it is short-lived. I showed them their toys upstairs and let them know they could come over soon to play with them. They liked seeing the front yard where they dig for worms.
I am so thankful I am connected to my breast cancer and breast reconstruction community during this global pandemic.
I’m so sorry you went through all that, such an emotional rollercoaster. I agree connection is so important, and I’m happy to read your pragmatism and areas of positivity where it’s possible. Keep breathing🤗
Hello Naomi! Thanks so much for your comment. This is a challenging time for so many of us right now during the coronavirus outbreak. I am doing well, sheltered in place. I wish you good health and wellness.
~ Terri