I had my 6 month check up with my surgeon, Dr. Richardson, this week, and after my surprise biopsy a few weeks ago she says I'm looking great!  It's hard for me to believe that a year ago I was completely bald and well into my chemo treatments.  Last night I had dinner with my Project Wednesday friends who I hadn't seen in a few weeks, and they commented on how long my hair was getting.  I have to chuckle when I hear that because my hair is still way shorter than it's been in my life since I was 3 years old.  But I've realized over the past year that the experience of purposely shaving my head, then losing my hair to chemo, and now growing it back, has been one of the more positive aspects of my cancer journey. Initially, knowing I would lose all my hair was the most devastating news to me -- how crazy is that? I am fighting for my life, but losing my hair was the most dreadful prospect at first. Isn't it amazing how much of our identity is wrapped up in our hair?  But shaving my head was one of the most free-ing things I've ever experienced. My wig gave me the confidence I needed to carry on with life as normally as possible in public. Being bald, then having short hair FEELS good!  I can't believe how little time it takes me to get ready now.  Shampooing is a breeze.  I don't have to blow-dry, curl, or use any products in my hair. And I can imagine how much more miserable I'd be hot-flashing in this 100 degree weather with my former long hair!  I'm not saying I won't have my hair long again -- I'm waiting to see how it grows.  But TEMPORARILY losing my hair has been one of the best, not to mention humorous, experiences of my life (and I can't even believe I'm saying that!)

A friend and fellow breast cancer survivor, Lisa George, has recently started her own jewelry company, Elle G Designs, and makes gorgeous beaded necklaces and bracelets. Some of the proceeds from one of her beautiful bracelets will benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation. It features a special glass bead designed by one of Lisa's doctors with the pink breast cancer ribbon inside. When I wear mine, people stop and grab my wrist to look at it closely because it's so unusual.  It would make a wonderful, sparkly gift for a special woman in your life.  To see it on the Elle G website, click "featured pieces"  at www.ElleGDesigns.com.