Sharren's Updates: My PEOPLE OF THE YEAR of 2013

It has been awhile since I gave an update, and as you know, it usually means things are good when you don't hear from me! I truly am doing well. I have been on Tamoxifen for 2 months now and have no major side effects. However, I will have a 3 month check in with the oncologist at the end of January. They will do blood draw and then let me know if there is anything going on "behind the scenes" in my body. Hopefully all will be well! I am really trying to get my exercise and sleep so that I feel my best almost every day. I have been eating well until I started my holiday baking a couple of weeks ago!

People Magazine always does a People of the Year in December or January, so I wanted to give my own version. First of all, to everyone who prayed for me and sent me cards and texts and e-mails- that meant the world to me the past 6 months. My mom definitely makes the list as she is the first person I called after my husband to talk to when I was first diagnosed in June. When mom started praying for me I felt God's peace and protection from there on and she was such a huge encouragement. My sisters were also very encouraging, coming to visit after the first surgery and piled up meals in my freezer. Little did I know then how much I would need them later, after several more surgeries, plus the major surgery!

My work friends were also great in bringing meals, reading materials, and taking care of me!

I must also mention my good friend Emily who drove me to several doctors appointments and stayed with me the day of my "emergency" surgery until I went into the operating room. Next on my list are my neighbors who provided meals and walked with me and checked on me (Michelle, Janet, Carol, Melissa and Don). My friend Amy also, who sent me many texts with scriptures to keep me going!

I hope I didn't forget anyone who was a major part of my life, but God sees and knows every gesture made towards me, and He will never forget your acts of kindness!

Finally, I want to post pictures of my breast surgeon, reconstruction surgeon, and oncologist, as they were all so very helpful, loving, and encouraging. They are so intelligent, humble, and knowledgeable, and exactly what every patient needs in a "team" of doctors. Here are their pictures: