I made it through surgery! But it almost didn’t happen.
At 7:30 pm the night before, we got a call from the doctor telling us that the insurance company had not approved the second portion of the surgery. The medical team had been calling all day—only to reach silence, since no one was answering because of the Juneteenth holiday.
We panicked. We called everyone we knew who might be able to help. We even offered to personally guarantee the cost. Thankfully, we have friends with connections who went above and beyond to help. But this is not the case for most people. Insurance companies play terrible games with people’s lives. Now I understand why Luigi Mangione became a hero to so many—because all it takes is one person in an office, tapping a key, to decide your fate. And if you don’t have insurance, affording care becomes nearly impossible.
Our dear friend Brett hadn’t been to the doctor because he didn’t have insurance. Maybe an annual physical could have saved his life? It’s a broken system, and sadly there’s no clear fix in sight.
Thankfully, by 6:30 am the morning of surgery, we got the approval. The doctors described the 4+ hour procedure as “boring”—meaning no surprises, which I am so grateful for. We were discharged by 3 pm and back home, watching TV, eating soup, and napping.
Each day since, I’ve felt a little stronger—taking slightly longer walks and even watching Callum play tennis today. I do have one odd side effect: double vision, which hasn’t subsided yet. So if you received a text or email from me that didn’t make much sense—that’s why! My phone and computer fonts are now super-sized, and I’m hoping this will pass soon.
For now, I’m taking it one small win at a time—showering, opening the refrigerator door on my own, feeling a little more like myself each day. The grapefruit-sized tumor is gone. I’m still waiting on the final pathology report, but right now, I’m simply grateful to have made it to the other side.
Thank you for all your support. Every message, every meal, every treat, every check-in has meant so much.
7 replies on “Grateful to Be on the Other Side”
Julie Cutting June 23, 2025 at 3:17 pm
Andrea,
So happy to hear all went well .. I too have had breast cancer.. Eight years cancer free. You will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers
Stay strong .
Julie
Deb daly June 23, 2025 at 6:07 pm
So happy to hear the surgery went well. Love you! ❤️
Pamela June 24, 2025 at 4:04 am
Grateful for your own determination, and presence, as well as amthe healing hands who are there for you. Terribly sorry for the stress you have had to endure. Fight on Andrea!! You’ve got this!
Ginny Karlberg June 24, 2025 at 8:10 am
Beautifully written, Andrea! Our healthcare system is broken – one small fix at a time is what it takes. I am so glad you are on the other side of this – you are an inspiration to many! Love you!
Suzanne Bennett June 24, 2025 at 9:00 am
So glad you are recovering so well!❤️
Brad Todd June 24, 2025 at 3:52 pm
Rest and heal & hug them tight.
Wendy Guarisco June 26, 2025 at 8:49 am
Glad it’s behind you, despite the unnecessary frustration. Wishing you a smooth road ahead. Soon the whole thing will be in the rear view mirror.