Hi all, David here.

Today it's been one week since the mastectomy. We realized it's high time we posted an update here.

The mastectomy went "as expected" per the surgeon last Friday. Ruth spent the night in the hospital (and me in an armchair), and since Saturday around noon we've been back at the house, keeping Ruth busy with resting, eating, and visits.

Here's an update from Ruth:
"Physically, I'm sore, with discomfort under my left armpit where a drain is exiting my body. Have some occasionally intense pressure and tightness across my chest, and blisters along the side where the drain is. It's not great but it's manageable and mostly expected.

Yesterday was good, with a walk outside, a visit from my uncles, and a yummy house dinner.  David and I started to make plans for fun things we can do this fall/winter, but the truth is that it'll depend on what treatment comes after this (radiation, chemo, etc). It's not yet clear. I'm hoping that it's minimal, but I'm not tethered to any expectations.

Thankful for the time to recover and for family + friends feeding us around the clock. This is the beginning of a long road and I've been moved by unexpected kindnesses. "

We've been able to get Ruth some of her creature comforts: food, showers, and time outside. Her parents Linda and Ben were here visiting for a while and her Dad taught me how to make a few of Ruth's favorite Cantonese dishes, and the fridge has been staying full with delicious meals brought in by folks on the mealtrain (or delivered from afar). A few days after the surgery we were able to take the dressing (but not the steri-strips) off, so she's been able to take a hot shower twice now. And we've gotten her outside in the sun on a couple of walks to a nearby park and cafe in the last few days.

We're managing to stay busy, and appreciate all the love and words of support coming in from folks near and far!