Four years ago, after my surgery, I was in so much pain that I couldn’t raise my arms. What I hadn’t expected – what no one had warned me of – was that I wouldn’t be able to wash my hair. It may seem like a small thing, but I was at such a low point and felt so powerless over the entire situation that I was at a loss at losing control over that as well. I’m not a vain person but couldn’t think of what to do. I finally reached out to my stylist at Ivy. She was incredible – working me in early in the morning so that I wouldn’t have to see anyone, caring for me in a way that no one else could – a way that didn’t make me feel any worse, or was demeaning. That is the one thing I recommend to anyone who has a friend going through this experience – if you want to think of a way to help her — get her hair done!
-10 year guest of Ivy
“I was diagnosed on June 13, 2017. I think I’m doing well – but it’s all relative! I feel guilty going into treatment, and would certainly feel guilty complaining, when I see what others are going through. Most people end up doing a type of chemo they call “Red Devil” that causes immediate hair loss; mine is a different type, causing shedding instead.
As a Principle for a large K-5 magnet school, being able to still work and be with 500 of my closest friends makes me grateful for my energy, grateful to have the energy to work and grateful for the days when I’m OK, though the next week could be completely different!
One aspect that I hadn’t thought through was that, with my position, I didn’t just have to figure out how to tell my family and friends. It quickly ballooned into conversations with coworkers, office staff, parents, and kids. There are about 750 people that I have to keep informed and updated on my status, I don’t want them jumping to conclusions!
I was shocked at my diagnosis – I’d had absolutely no idea. I had mammograms for years but almost missed this one due to a scheduling mishap! If I’d missed this, I would have been in big trouble. You hear it all the time that early detection is important, but even a six-month difference would have been a large change in the prognosis for my disease.
My best friend is on her second round battling the disease; my sister-in-law passed away from the disease. At the treatment center, I see these women wearing their scarves and can’t help but admire them and think of how absolutely beautiful they all are. After my diagnosis, I decided immediately that I would be kind, gracious, generous, and get the word out about early detection!”
– Lyn Mueller, mother of Ivy Employee ViLora
