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Kirby Johnson - Journal

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Posted 2021-08-29T08:11:00Z

Homecoming

She's home! 

Kirby was released from hospital yesterday, a little earlier than expected. It was a very welcome surprise for all of us; especially the kids. She remains on heavy pain relief medication and has been resting quite a lot. The surgery has caused limited movement in Kirby’s right arm and altered sensation which should both improve over time. The kids have been great, although Scarlett sometimes forgets that she's not playing full-contact Aussie Rules around the house and that she needs to be gentle. They're both very happy to have Mum back, particularly after their week-long basic training experience helping me with chores around the house.[...]

Posted 2021-08-26T05:01:00Z

On the mend

Hi everyone,

I wanted to give you a quick update now I’m feeling a bit better. I’ve continued to improve each day post surgery, especially with movement of my right arm. I have a surgical drain in place which is still actively draining so there’s no chance of discharge from hospital yet. I’ve also had some increase in pain each day which is apparently normal after this surgery. I have some pretty amazing pain killers to keep the pain under control. The nurse last night thought she’s give me a double dose which was pretty hilarious because I felt paralysed. (For my nursing friends Palexia SR 100mg and immediate 100mg). I actually thought I might start drooling and couldn't move my legs off the bed. Needless to say it was super effective in treating the pain, but I don’t think I’ll try it again anytime soon. Overall the surgery has been much easier than I expected which is a nice surprise  [...]

Posted 2021-08-23T23:48:00Z

Surgery complete!

Kirby came out of a 4.5hr surgery late yesterday afternoon and is doing well. The surgeon told us this morning that everything went as well as it could have. In addition to the mastectomy she had four lymph nodes removed from her underarm. None of the lymph nodes showed any indication that the cancer had spread, so we are both very pleased. She has been moving around out of bed and has already started physiotherapy. She is being cared for by some great nurses. The next step will be meeting with the oncologist next week after she has recovered some more. The expected recovery time from surgery is 6 weeks so it will be a long journey, especially with the chemotherapy component. I'm really proud of the way she has handled everything so far. [...]

Posted 2021-08-21T02:49:00Z

Welcome to Kirby Johnson's PostHope Site

Welcome to the Kirby Johnson support family. Kirby was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2021 and will be receiving treatment over the coming months. This site is for family and friends, old and new, to keep up to date with information and organise efforts to support her and her family. This page will serve as your home base for rallying the troops and receiving updates to support Kirby. Here's the plan:[...]