Dr Kelly Fleming

Eleven years ago, I went into the hospital for a “routine” bilateral mastectomy. What should been one surgery turned into a four year battle and three major surgeries and one minor one.

Last fall I found a tiny lump. My life was busy. My newest granddaughter had just been born. My service dog was getting sicker from Addison’s Disease and he was dying. I didn’t really pay attention to the little pea size lump or the pain I had from time to time under my arm.

In February I was reunited with my surgeon after 6 years and found out I would be having surgery within the next 3-6 months.

After all my surgeries there was only a 5% chance of anything coming back.

Today I go for my pre-op testing. I’m scared. I know the drill. This is my fifth rodeo. But it doesn’t make it any easier.

My first two surgeries I stopped breathing right after I was put out. My third surgery, they had a difficult time regulating my heart.

I live with SJIA, a disease that most people haven’t survived through to be over 50.

I just turned 51 two weeks ago. In order for my doctor to do this surgery, I can’t be put under. She already has a surgical plan set up.

Today is really the beginning of my journey over the next few months. I’m praying that she will do the surgery, everything will come out benign and I can recover to have a good life ahead of me.

I want to be here to get my successor poodle service dog and see my granddaughters grow up.

I’m terrified.

I ask you all to keep me in your prayers.

❤️