Thursday, May 03, 2007

Positive Visualization

Back in October, when I was originally diagnosed, my mom and her group of wonderfully warm and supportive girlfriends got together for lunch. At the end of the lunch, Mary, a seven-year breast cancer survivor, mentioned that she had found visualization exercises to be helpful in getting through her surgery and treatments, and suggested that the women at the table all join hands and hold a positive image about me in their minds for several minutes.

First, Mom had to determine which image they should all focus on. She closed her eyes and thought for a minute or two. “What image do you see?” they asked when she opened them.

“I see Courtney coming out of the hospital carrying a piece of paper that says ‘Clean Bill of Health.’ She hands me the baby they were able to have…and I’m thin!”

It’s still too early to tell on visions 2 and 3, but we know at least the first part worked: my doctor called with my pathology report. I showed 100% response to the chemotherapy. There was no sign of the tumor when they dissected the breast tissue, and no evidence of cancer anywhere else in my breasts.

This means that even if any rogue cells escaped from the tumor at some point in the last few years (which itself is unlikely since there was no evidence of cancer in the lymph nodes, and no sign of cancer on the whole-body PET/CT scan), chances are excellent that the course of treatment I just went through took care of them. I will continue to be monitored carefully, but it is safe to assume that chances of a recurrence are minuscule.

It’s wonderful to say I no longer have cancer. And although the blog name will remain The Courtney Word, it will be easier every day to think of it without parentheses.

16 Comments:

Blogger Sandi said...

Courtney,
What wonderful news for you! You and your mother have lots of friends and I know we've all been sending healing thoughts and energy your way.
Sandi in Des Moines

9:23 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Congratulations on your best possible news, Courtney! All "the girls" in Des Moines are rejoicing!!

8:41 AM  
Blogger Chelsea Girl said...

HOORAY! I am so thrilled to hear this news :)

11:36 AM  
Blogger Beauty Chick said...

YAY!!! I'm so happy for you. Now you can change that "cancer patient" designation to "cancer survivor"! Although we all know you did more than survive - you vanquished!

Sending hugs and smiles,
Gretchen

12:09 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Exciting! Great post. Thrilled for this great milestone! -Molly

12:42 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Courtney - Michelle and I are so thrilled for your news. I can't imagine anything I'd rather hear.

Steve G

8:01 AM  
Blogger nancster said...

How wonderful to read your blog and "hear" that all your hard work, the skill of your medical team, the love and care of your family and friends has brought you to this day of elation. Your courage and good humor continues to inspire.
Much love,
Carl and Nancy Cooper

6:32 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

this is brilliant news courtney! we are thrilled that youa re cancer free!!! sending tons of healing energy and positive light your way to be taking those laps in central park sooner than later.
shaheen

11:49 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Courtney- I am so relieved for you, Michael and your family. You are ever present in my thoughts. Much love, Kelly

1:38 PM  
Blogger Chia said...

Congrats Courtney, and hello fabulous new boobies!! ;)
Looking forward to seeing the healthy C.
xoxo
Sylvia C

11:33 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Such very good news. much love to you and Michael, janex

3:16 PM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Relieved and thrilled for you. Congrats on the great news. C is for CONQUER.

Love,
Lina

1:10 PM  
Blogger Bubbe Bonnie said...

I read your story and you are truly amazing. My 39 year old daughter and I are both survivors. Your goal for the tour de pink is wonderful. Your family should be so proud of you. I just wanted to add my good wishses to you on your journey.

10:04 PM  
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