We received wonderful news: Only the sentinel lymph nodes were removed. This is a good sign that the cancer has not spread.

Last night, I was able to sleep in three-hour stretches. Throughout the night, the nurses remained vigilant—clearing drains, checking tissue, changing IV fluids, administering countless pills and monitoring my heart rate, blood pressure and temperature.

Regardless of the hour, even at 3 a.m., going to the bathroom is quite an ordeal. Bobby was sleeping so deeply that I resorted to throwing pillows and empty cups to wake him.

We unhooked cables, leg cuffs and monitors. I gingerly inched out of bed and, shuffling behind my IV cart, made the arduous journey to the bathroom. The journey back is another story in itself.

Last night, I received well wishes from so many friends and family members. My mom and the boys came for a visit and brought baskets of gifts filled with love. My boys took turns walking with me through the halls of the ward.

I hope to see them again tonight, but there are weather warnings, and we don’t want them traveling on unsafe roads.

It took some time to get comfortable this morning, but right now I am feeling pretty good. My teeth are brushed, my belly is full, Bobby combed my hair into a ponytail and I’m snug in my bed.

The doctors say I’m healing beautifully and expect me to leave on Saturday or Sunday.