You Too Can Be a Mermaid!

Candace Tatton, September's Mermaid of the Month


Candace with her family

Candace's Story
I recently turned 40. Most women dread the big “4” “0.” Not me, I was VERY excited to make it to 40 because 2 years ago I wasn’t sure I would still be alive to see that day.

January 18, 2008 was my D-Day, Diagnosis Day. That is the day that I found out that I had breast cancer. I was only 38 years old. One month earlier I went to my OB/GYN for my yearly check-up. After he did a breast examination he mentioned that he would like me to go get a mammogram. He was concerned about how the top half of my breast was slightly harder than the bottom half. The difference was so subtle that without him telling me what to feel for I never
would have found it on my own. Everything I had ever heard about doing self-breast exams said to look for small pea size lumps, not a smooth, gradual hardening of a portion of my breast. As it turned out I had a 4.5 inch tumor. which covered the top half of my breast. Even though my tumor was large it still did not show up on my mammogram because my breasts were too dense and fibrous, a common problem in young women. An ultrasound confirmed that the mass wasn’t
just a cyst and a biopsy confirmed that it was cancer.

My D-Day was the start of a whirlwind of appointments, tests, and surgeries. I had 8 chemotherapy treatments, a mastectomy, and then 4 more chemotherapy treatments. My
husband went with me to my first chemotherapy treatment. After that I decided to turn my treatments into a “girl’s day out.” I had a different friend or relative take me to each treatment. We would talk, laugh, and joke our way through each appointment then after I was done we would go out to lunch. I would eat a good meal then head home before the side effects started to kick in. With the help from family members and friends I made it through all twelve chemo
treatments followed by 30 radiation treatments.

The entire process took just under 11 months. During that time I learned more than I ever wanted to know about breast cancer. I also met some very wonderful women in a group called the Young Survivor Sisters, a cancer support group in Utah for young women with breast cancer. It was at the first meeting I went to that I first heard about Dr. Massey. She did the reconstruction surgery for several of the women in the group. I had my first appointment with her shortly after that. I firmly believe that a woman who needs reconstruction not only needs a highly skilled plastic surgeon but also one who makes her feel comfortable. The surgeon needs to truly care about his/her patients. He/she needs to be concerned about what procedure will help you feel whole again not what procedure they like to perform or what will make them the
most money. Many doctors tell you what to do. Dr. Massey explained all my options then let me make the choice that was right for me. By the time we left our first appointment I knew that I wanted Dr. Massey to be my plastic surgeon.

In July 2009 my husband and I went to New Orleans for my first reconstruction surgery. I had a bilateral SGap procedure. The surgery went really well. During my stay at the hospital the staff was very kind and took care of our every need. I returned again in October for my second surgery.

The recovery process was hard but I am so glad that I chose to have the SGap surgery and that Dr. Massey was my plastic surgeon. I know without a doubt that I would not have had the great results that I have had I not gone to New Orleans and had Dr Massey as my surgeon. My new
breasts feel natural to the touch and look amazing. I even feel comfortable wearing a bathing suit again. My body looks better than it has in years.

Going through treatment for cancer was very hard and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. If I had the chance to go back and not have to go through cancer I don’t think I would. I am a different person now. I am more positive and I don’t let little things get to me. I will always bear the physical scars and have some problems caused by my treatments but I am okay with my “new” body. I have grown so much through this experience. I know that my Heavenly Father was with me every step of the way. I experienced many small miracles during the two years between diagnosis and the last surgery. Miracles happen all around us every day we just need to take the time to stop and look for them. I was also the recipient of many acts of kindness and service from friends, family and even total strangers. Through this experience I have developed a strong desire to be there for other young women as they are going through breast cancer treatments.
I am currently President of the Young Survivor Sisters, the support group that first put me in contact with Dr. Massey. I now consider both Dr. Massey and her assistant Ashley Packer to be my good friends. They were both a bright light at a very dark and difficult time in my life. Dr. Massey’s skills as a surgeon turned the negative of loosing my breast into the positive that now my clothes fit better. I would and I often do recommend Dr. Marga Massey as a plastic surgeon
to any women who needs breast reconstruction or a lymph node transplant.

Candace Tatton


Marlin Pryor, August's Mer"man" of the Month


Marlin Pryor

Marlin's Story
During a freak accident, I stepped into a hole and twisted my right leg. Additionally, I did not realize that I damaged my lymph node which ended up in my development of lymphedema. After the lymphedema occurred, I could no longer wear my correct shoe size. The left foot was the actual shoe size and the right foot was one full shoe size larger than the other! It was both a health and financial alert when I discovered that my health was failing. Above all, I had to spend twice as much on my expensive pair of shoes! On average, well-made shoes are more expensive for men than for women. I wanted to maintain my health and continue to dress sharply. I was 39 years old and always active. My health became a priority.

When my Mother read an article in the local newspaper about Dr. Massey doing her fantastic work in Charleston (South Carolina) she referred it to me. I procrastinated a few weeks, mostly out of despair, before referring the article to both my physical therapist and my nurse in Charleston. They recommended that Dr. Massey see me for an appointment. After making the call, Dr. Massey had her assistant phone me to set up a consult with my Mother and I. We filled out the “Getting To Know You” form. Upon seeing Dr. Massey, it was absolutely  love at first sight!

Dr. Massey, my Mother and I had one more consult. She then explained the procedure of the surgery which would be done the next morning. She has a phenomenal bedside rapport with everyone. She explained that the lymph node from the left axilla would be transferred to the groin of my right leg. I would have no knowledge of this because I would be under anesthesia. On her birthday, Dr. Massey spent eight hours operating on me. I went under and and felt like I had a rejuvenating nap. I knew that I would be victorious. Two days after the surgery, I started seeing results. Now, a year later, I no longer have to buy two pairs of shoes!

Dr. Massey’s staff is equally outstanding. Ashley Packer handles concerns just as Dr. Massey’s assistant Jenny Greene does. Often Jenny responds within 15 minutes of the call. I tease her many times for instantly answering the phone, “Hello Marlin,” with a warm smile in her voice.

I am extremely pleased with the medical service that I received from Dr. Marga F. Massey’s Practice. I know that this has been an immense blessing.

Blessings, Marlin


Kathy Negro, July's Mermaid of the Month


Kathy and her family

Kathy's Story
I was 39 when I got the news that no one wants to hear…You have cancer. All I could think about was my three young children at home. I planned on growing old with my husband and soul mate, Ken. Was I going to be around to raise my kids? Will I see them on their wedding day? In the early days of this diagnosis, fear overtakes your mind and body. Amazingly, each day eventually brings acceptance and warrior mode kicks in. On Valentine’s Day, 2008, I had a double mastectomy w/full lymph node dissection and immediate reconstruction w/implants. One week later, pathology showed a total of three tumors in the right breast and lymph node involvement. It was aggressive. I was Her2 and Estrogen positive. This meant chemo, radiation and a year of Herceptin IV medication. I realized I had to fight to live, or should I say live to fight.

In 2009, I felt it was the time to “put myself back together”. I had permanent implants put in by March. Although they were cold and hard, they were what I needed to feel somewhat whole again. Three short months later, my right implant failed and had to be removed. I spent the whole summer “lopsided.” It was difficult because it was a constant reminder of what cancer took from me. I am an active member of the website, BreastCancer.org. It was here I learned about the DIEP Flap Surgery. I did extensive research about the surgery and the doctors available. How did I choose the infamous Dr. Massey? She had me at “Hello”..lol She called me on a Sunday afternoon. I felt as if we had been childhood friends from the moment we spoke. She is kind, patient but most of all, so knowledgeable. She has a great education, experience and something that they don’t teach you in medical school, an excellent bedside manner. She treats you as if you are her family. In many ways, we are her family. She devotes more hours to her patients than her own joy. We are her joy. You will see this in her eyes the first time you meet her…you will see it in her smile…you will feel it in your heart.

In September of 2009, I traveled from Michigan to New Orleans to be rebuilt once again. It was a long surgery and scars took over many parts of my body. Instead of looking at what cancer did, I looked at it as warrior scars. Each one makes me stronger. When I left New Orleans, I left with a new friend in Dr. Massey but I also left “whole” again. As the airplane departed and raced down the tarmac, my new, warm breasts started jiggling. I was shocked. I had not felt them “jiggle” in over 1 ½ years. It was at this precise moment that I knew I did the right thing for me. God healed my inside, and Dr. Massey and Dr. DellaCroce healed my outside. I am strong. I am a beautiful woman. I am a warrior. I am a MERMAID!

Kathy Negro

Nelladet Stettler, June's Mermaid of the Month


Nelladet Stettler with daughter and husband

Nelladet's Story:
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is often associated with a traumatic event such as war, death, abuse, an accident, or a natural disaster.   However, facing one’s mortality through the diagnosis of a life threatening disease such as cancer can also trigger PTSD.  In fact, one third of cancer patients experience PTSD four-six months after being diagnosed – I was one of them, although at the time, I didn’t know it...

Just as I was finishing chemotherapy, my mother passed away.  I was the oldest of seven and her caretaker for many years.  Now, not only did I face my own mortality, but again was reminded of it with the death of my mother.  During this time, several children of friends also passed away under tragic circumstances.  These events set in motion a downward spiral both emotionally and physically.  Having been a very social person, I began avoiding contact with people as much as possible AND anything that reminded me of “cancer” or “death.”  I felt jumpy, focusing on a task was almost impossible and more terrible – I couldn’t sleep.  Anxiety abounded with a pounding heart, nausea, muscle tension, and sweating.  Moreover, at each step of my breast cancer treatment, the diagnosis became more serious, until it was necessary for a mastectomy; all adding to my grief.  The worst—I felt my “future” was limited.  Would I ever lead a “normal” life again?   

With this question in mind, I was determined to overcome my situation.  Being open to options, I sought both medical and psychological help.  Through counseling I learned I was experiencing symptoms of PTSD.  It was during this time I was referred to Dr. Marga Massey.  In reading about Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction, I found I could have the mastectomy and begin reconstruction simultaneously.  Compared to traditional reconstruction, the DIEP Flap procedure involved fewer surgeries, less pain, faster recovery time, with an excellent cosmetic outcome.  This also meant waking up from surgery with new breasts.  I would NOT have to grieve their loss too.  Another side benefit from the surgery—a tummy tuck!  Sounded great!  Nevertheless, facing a ten hour surgery made me extremely nervous.  I soon realized my fears were unfounded; I was in the hands of the best. 

Dr. Massey and her team made the surgery and stay at Roper Hospital wonderful.  I have never had such care and concern.  All expectations were exceeded.  During the surgery, Dr. Massey sent my husband to downtown Charleston to see the sites.  In her charming southern accent, “It is torture for a loved one to be in a hospital waiting room for 10 hours!”  Yet, every hour she had an O.R. nurse contact my husband to keep him updated on their progress and my condition.  She had him waiting for me in the recovery room before I woke up from anesthesia.  What doctor spends as much time with you as needed?  Takes meticulous care?  What doctor gives you their email and cell phone number?  Follows through with calls week after week?  It’s Dr. Massey.  Five days after surgery I was up and shopping in Charleston.   Ten days later I flew home on my 50th birthday with new breasts, a tummy tuck, and hope for the future!

Did having PTSD make me less of a person?  NO!  I share this experience to let others know PTSD is real and you are NOT crazy!  As I look upon this last year, I see God’s hand helping and guiding me.  The way everything unfolded led me to the extremely skilled Dr. Massey.  I thank God everyday for my miracle and the gift given to her.  I have learned there is opposition in our lives for purpose--sorrow so we can experience joy; pain to be grateful for pleasure; and fear so we can learn to have great faith.  I have found my “new normal” and know my life has been greatly enriched because of this journey. 

If anyone is pondering this type of surgery, please feel free to contact me at nelladet[at]gmail.com

Len Joyner , May's Mermaid of the Month


Dennis & Len Joyner

Len's Story:
My journey begins in 1984, I was 34 years old and single and I was diagnosed with breast cancer. By November of 1984 I had had bilateral mastectomies and bilateral reconstruction with implants. Fast forward with me to 2007. During those 23 years, I met and married, in 1993, the love of my life and life was good. I had never entertained the idea of having any more surgery; I had had enough surgery in 1984 to last my lifetime. But, God had other plans. He started whispering to me in early 2007 that I needed to “google”  breast reconstruction. My inquiry led me straight to Dr. Marga Massey!!!

Our first conversation lasted over an hour and our consultation in Charleston lasted over two hours.I had never met a Doctor that was willing to spend so much time with me. It was determined that both my implants had ruptured and no matter what I chose to do, those implants had to come out. Everything that led up to my finding Dr. Massey could be considered coincidence but I am certain that it was NOT accidental; it was instead God leading me to the very best micro surgeon, for me. Dr. Massey is so: approachable, awesome, compassionate, generous, talented, skilled, and caring and I could go on and on. Dr. Massey has given me an incredible gift. We made the decision to do the Diep Flap in September 2007. My case was a bit complicated but that did not deter Dr. Massey, as a matter of fact, I returned to Charleston on December of 2007 and I got a new breast on Christmas Eve...not everybody can say they got a “boobie” for Christmas!!!.

The ruptured implants were making me sick and I had no idea. After my surgery I felt like a new person, inside and out. Inside was clean of the ruptured silicone and outside I could see a complete body again. I really had not realized what an impact the disfigurement of my body had had on my self-esteem and self worth. WOW, what a difference Dr. Marga Massey has made in my life. I wake up every morning with gratitude in my heart for all she has done for me. She is a true “southern girl” with charm, intellect and a skill that is AMAZING. Thank you so much Dr. Marga, I love you.

Len Joyner

Amy Smith, April's "Mermaid of the Month"


Amy Smith

Amy's Story:
My figure looks awesome thanks to Dr. Massey. I am so pleased to see my shape as I pass a window or mirror!

I was diagnosed at 35 when my son was 1 and my daughters were 2 and 3. I opted for a mastectomy with tissue expanders because I was told I was too thin for autologous reconstruction. During chemo, I lost an expander – my skin just developed a hole (on my prophylactic side of course!). As soon as radiation was over, I was thrilled to schedule an appointment for reconstruction.

My plastic surgeon at the time offered me one option, a lat flap due to the hole and implants, hoping and praying the radiated side would behave. At my pre-op appointment, I found out I was pregnant (ultrasound the next day said 10 weeks!). So my reconstruction was put on hold. Thankfully, I had an uneventful pregnancy and delivered a healthy and extremely happy baby girl (our 4th child!) on July 31, 2009. She truly is a miracle. You can imagine the drugs I was on when she was conceived and her first 10 weeks in the womb.

During my pregnancy, I decided surly there were other options. Losing muscle didn’t sound like a great idea if it could be avoided. So I sought a second opinion and that plastic surgeon said you must go see Dr. Marga Massey! I saw Dr. Massey and immediately knew I was in the right place. She is so personable, enthusiastic, dedicated and talented! We decided a GAP flap was my best option and scheduled the surgery for October. My youngest was 9 weeks, my son 2 ½ and my daughters were 4 and 5. The surgery went great. I woke to two fabulous-looking and feeling new breasts. The recovery was fine. I healed well but required lots of help with the children. My family was amazing and friends pitched in as well.

Dr. Massey far exceeded my expectations and I couldn’t be more pleased with my reconstruction!

Amy Smith


Peggy Winstead, March's "Mermaid of the Month"


Peggy Winstead

Peggy's Story:
I have always believed that all things happen, good and bad, for a reason.  It’s like God has you on this path and whatever tribulation happens, He leads you to a brighter day.  My brighter day came when I was diagnosed with DCIS nine years after my first diagnosis of breast cancer. I knew it was brighter because I had just witnessed a dear friend, Len Joyner, go through the same journey of breast reconstruction with Dr. Massey.  Little did I know at that time, I was going to travel down that very same path Len did.   I already had a head start on this medical journey because God had provided Len’s experience for me to find Dr. Massey, just as He had led Len to Dr. Massey in her journey.    I then realized, “I have two human guardian angels right here on this Earth!!” Just how lucky can one person be?

But the luck didn’t stop there, Dr. Massey took the threat away and gave me the ultimate gift in place of fear. . the gift of complete and total peace of mind and soul.  There are no words to justify what Dr. Marga Massey and her wonderful staff has done for me and my family. I thank her for my life, for being my “guardian angel, for being my friend, for becoming a member of my family, and for helping me to continue to be just as crazy and happy as I can be.  I can and will keep smiling and laughing everyday.  It’s the best advertisement for God, it makes people wonder what you got!!  And I know what I got.  I got two, new beautiful boobs who were created by Dr. Massey.  They are lovingly referred to as “Mag” and “Nolia” from Charleston. SC.

Dr. Massey, you’re the best!!!!
Love you,
Peggy Winstead


Kristin Elliot , February's "Mermaid of the Month"


Kristin Elliott

Kristin and Dr. Marga

Kristin’s Story:
In February of 2006, just days after my sixteenth birthday, I was diagnosed with a rare and incurable cancer, called Synovial Cell Sarcoma in Stage III. The tumor was found in my right thigh, and it was was measured to be the size of a grapefruit. Usually this type of cancer is found in late stages, making the survival statistics for this type of cancer not promising.  I endured months of chemotherapy to no avail.  It did not shrink the tumor as doctors had hoped, and it even caused me to lapse into a coma at one point. The failure of chemotherapy led me to have an 8 hour surgery to remove the tumor embedded in my muscle, leaving me with a twelve inch scar. Doctors did not expect me to have much function of my leg, but to their amazement, I was walking just two days after surgery with full function of my leg. I also had a little more than two months of radiation to complete my cancer treatment. This treatment process left second degree burns on my leg and surgery scar.

The next year, June of 2007, I was re-diagnosed with cancer, but this time it returned in my lungs. Instead of doing chemotherapy again, my family and I opted for me to undergo surgery to remove the masses that summer. Unfortunately, it was not all removed during that surgery, and I returned in December of 2007 for yet another lung surgery.  So far, the cancer has not returned, but for several years I had been living with some pretty serious lymphedema in my right leg. Doctors reassured me that there was nothing to do for a condition like this, making me believe I would have to endure this for the rest of my life. Now seventeen years old, I wanted nothing more than relief from the pain and a glimpse of hope to live a life of youthful normalcy. But, the overwhelming pain, heaviness, and broken self-image were the thoughts that would tend to consume my mind. Years of many failed attempts at different rehabilitation and therapy  urged my family and I to search for answers.

About this time, God worked His miracle and led me to Dr. Marga Massey. She so graciously agreed to help me in my worsening condition, as she genuinely sought for me to beat the final battle of my journey. Dr. Massey was the most personable, caring, and authentic doctor I have ever met in all my experience. Something about her character and pure, honest spirit is so intriguing. I respect her as a surgeon, and I am so honored that she would allow me to be a part of the countless people she has given restoration to. She was sensitive to my age, and she understood my needs and worries of having another surgery. And, Dr. Massey showed the utmost kindness and love towards my family.  In August of 2009, at nineteen, I was operated on by Dr. Massey, a fifteen hour surgery. Although a rough surgery, I have been pleased with the way my leg has been healing.  God has certainly given Dr. Massey a heart for people and unparalleled talent as a physician. I believe God sent me Dr. Massey as an angel to brighten my life.  She, along with her amazing group of staff, enabled me to find relief and peace with my condition. Dr. Massey’s work has helped me continue in a life of true joy, as I have pursued my heart of missions. To see more of my journey with missionary work, you can visit http://kristinsheart.com/ 

With tears of joy and thankfulness, Kristin

“For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD;
I sing for joy at the works of your hands.”  - Psalm 92:4


Donna Creighton , January's "Mermaid of the Month"


Donna Creighton

Donna’s Story:
"Standing in front of a mirror naked has a whole new meaning for any woman who has had her breast(s) removed. As you gaze at yourself, you are reminded that there are scars, both physical and emotional, that need to heal. Dr Massey gave me that opportunity. I wanted my own tissue used to reinvent my body and I wanted only one surgeon to perform the reconstruction: Dr Marga Massey. The surgery gave me my shape back; I no longer dreaded the sight of my reflection in the mirror. I am whole now, both inside and out. My soul and spirit are alive and flourishing."
  - Donna Creighton

Andrea's Story:
My Dear Dr. Marga,  How do I thank someone that has given me back a normal life? Someone who has literally granted me the miracle of once again being a female?

For four years now, I have been fighting this disease that has stolen my life, my soul, and the very essence of who I am. The toll has affected me both physically, and most importantly, emotionally.

The reconstructive surgeons in Tampa gave me little hope of regaining a female physical appearance. One doctor even left a gaping hole in my chest. As my life fell apart, I slipped into a deep depression. I gave up hope of ever enjoying life again. I spent more time trying to simulate breasts than I did fixing my hard-to-control hair. Living became a day- to-day struggle of survival. I avoided developing a relationship, and even sabotaged each attempt to do so.

Then, I found you and started my journey to reconstructing not only my body, but also my will to live, since there were times that I just wished I would die. And, I would have gotten that wish if you hadn’t found additional cancer during the reconstruction. You literally saved my life!

It’s been a lonely, arduous trek to regain what I have lost. You have given me the desire and confidence to finally develop a relationship, and even engage in intimacy.

I will never be able to adequately thank you for what you have done for me. In addition, your team members, Jill and Jenny, have also provided considerable support and patience as I struggled through this ordeal. Please tell both of them how much I appreciated their putting up with me.

I foresee one more surgery, as I watch my body getting closer and even better than it was before this crisis. Then, you will no longer be a part of my life. But, you will always be with me in my heart until the day I die. You are my guardian angel.

Have a wonderful well-deserved holiday vacation. Convey my thanks and happy holiday wishes to your staff.
Love, Andrea

Cynthia

Cynthia’s Story:
I'm still in awe of the way I look. Dr. Massey is the most amazing doctor I have ever encountered. I had previously had a skin sparring bilateral masectomy with expanders and then implants and they had hardened and become very painful. My hands were increasingly numb from the pressure of the implants and it was becoming difficult to ride horses, which is my passion. I also live alone and do photography part time and have been remodeling my house myself for the last 2 1/2 years. I enjoy using power tools and being able to work on my house myself, I have a large garden, 35 chickens, a goat named Zorra, my horse Athena and the dog Xena. I do a lot of hard physical work with this lifestyle I have and it's not something I wanted to give up.

When I began researching the DIEP flap and I came across Dr. Massey's site and saw her resume I was really impressed. But when I talked to her I was convinced I wanted her to do the procedure. When I met her in New Orleans, I knew I had made the right choice. This is a woman who pours her heart into what she does and takes each one so personally. I truly believe she was a gift from God for me and I love this woman dearly for what she has given to me with this surgery. When my friend Karie who was with me during the surgery saw me after a week of being home with all the drains gone and the scabs from the incisions gone, her eyes popped open and she said "They're beautiful!" and then cried, and then I cried because they are beautiful.

It's hard to describe to a woman who hasn't gone thru breast cancer and masectomy, just what the whole thing can do to your life, your esteem and to relationships around you. It forever changes you and the thought of allowing another man into my life was only something I would dream of but never give it serious thought. Now I feel like I've been given the opportunity to have a relationship again and especially the confidence to seek one out. This is a priceless gift for a woman. I call Dr. Marga "the Mermaid Maker" because she really does transform women and not just on the outside. I feel privileged to have gotten to know this incredibly loving human being who is also competitive, driven and a perfectionist which makes for a phenomenal doctor.

It's now 8 1/2 weeks since surgery and wow! What a difference this has made in my life. I feel more like myself before the masectomy than I could have imagined. I really hope that more women will find out about this procedure and what it can do for them. I have been on several breast cancer websites to encourage other women about this procedure and that they need to go to New Orleans and have this done. I had the best experience there, they took such good care of me and all of the staff were just wonderful. You could not ask for a better facility to have this done at. To everyone I talk to about this, I tell them I'd do it again  in a heartbeat.  An extra bonus was getting to know Dr. Massey. Love and kisses to Dr. Massey.
Cynthia

Debbie Robinson

Debbie Robinson
Naples, Florida

Dear Dr. Massey,

We wish that everyone on this difficult journey could find their way to you. After months of research, consults, waiting, insurance denials, tests, prayer, soul searching, and miracles we finally were able to havePBM DIEP (Monica) and implant removal withSGAP (Nancy)surgeries at St. Charles Center for Restorative Breast Surgery in NewOrleansin June 2009. We know that through all of this waiting we were meant to go through this experience as mother and daughter.

We could not have asked for better care from anyone at the Center and the Hospital. The staff treated us like we were family from the first time we spoke over the phone and also while we were recovering.

We spoke with Dr. Massey many times over the phone andwe finally met with her in person in April 2009 and it was like meeting a long lost friend. She got to know us individually and as a family. She took an interest in each of our families but more importantly in this difficult but exciting journey. We know that she was sent to us as an answer to our many prayers and that it is truly a miracle that we could do this together as mother and daughter. We will be forever grateful for her love, patience, dedication, and experience for making a difference in our lives and the lives of many other women and families.

Thank you Dr. Massey, for the wonderful and beautiful "Ta-Ta's" -- We love You!

Love, Nancy and Monica

Cheri Varvil

Cheri's Story:
I live in Lawrence, Kansas. I have had insulin dependent diabetes for 24 years and have used an insulin pump for the last five years.

I learned that I had DCIS after two mammograms and a stereotactic biopsy at three sites in my left breast. Based on the reading I started doing, it seemed that I would likely only have to have the DCIS sites removed, since the cancer cells were not invasive; so, I was shocked and extremely dismayed when the first doctor I consulted announced that I needed to have a mastectomy because the DCIS was extensive and the cancer cells were stage two and three. I talked with another doctor, who was more willing to talk about other options, but ultimately agreed that the safest choice would be a mastectomy. I had done a lot more reading by then, and learned about the DIEP Flap procedure for reconstruction in Dr. Susan Love’s Breast Book (a wonderful book for women dealing with breast cancer), who talked about it as an option and talked about Dr. Massey’s practice partner, Dr. Allen, as the doctor who developed the procedure. Dr. Love made the point that it is a very complicated procedure and it is important to find a surgeon who does it a lot. I visited their website for Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction, and the more I read about the diep flap, the more it seemed like the option I wanted. I have felt for years that I would never want an implant; and the tram flap procedure, while at least using your own tissue, has the risk of loss of muscle in the abdomen – an area of my body that has always lacked tone anyway. As I read about it on other websites, however, I also learned that my diabetes might rule me out as a candidate for the procedure.

The plastic surgeon I was referred to in Kansas for consultation simply said that he didn’t do that procedure, that I would have to go to Houston for it, and talked to me about implants or the tram flap procedure. He seemed to think that would be a possibility for me. He also told me that it would be easier for him to do both breasts, even though the DCIS was only in one. Further research indicated that doctors in Kansas didn’t seem to know much about perforator flap procedures, and I couldn’t find anyone who did them. After a lot of thought, I came to the conclusion that I didn’t want either of the other procedures; and that I would simply have a mastectomy and no reconstruction if I could not have the diep flap procedure even though there are no doctors in my area who perform that procedure.

My adult daughter encouraged me to at least ask for what I wanted, so I completed a request for information on the Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction Website. I was fairly obsessive in my reading and research at this point, so I did this on the Saturday before Labor Day, knowing I would have to wait for a response. I stated that I have diabetes, but that I am generally healthy and asked whether I might be a candidate for the diep flap procedure.

It is hard to describe the feeling of amazement, hope and relief that I felt when I received an e-mail from Dr. Massey containing the words “I do think we can help..." and asking my permission to have her nurse call me after the holiday. She responded on a Saturday on a holiday weekend! (She has since told me about doing a surgery on a holiday).

Dr. Massey’s staff is just as amazing. Once I talked to her nurse Jill Payne, I felt I was in very good hands. Jill coordinated a very complicated set of events to schedule me for surgery and get all the preliminary procedures done, some of which had to be done in Charleston, where I went for my stage one surgery. She also advised me about having information sent from my endocrinologist who sees me for my diabetes, and about finding a “helper" doctor in Kansas to see me after surgery for any needed care.

I didn’t get to meet Dr. Massey in person until the evening before the surgery; but when I did, she made both my husband and me feel very comfortable and hopeful. I think we spent more than two hours discussing all our questions and possible outcomes. She supported removing just the breast with the DCIS, and she was very supportive of my keeping my insulin pump active during surgery - and even contacted the hospital endocrinologist for any needed support. My endocrinologist in Kansas was surprised and pleased that Dr. Massey and the hospital didn’t make me remove the pump during surgery, as they had warned me might happen because of their previous experience.

My surgery went well, and my experience at Roper Hospital was very positive. The nurses seemed so committed to providing great care and support; it seemed like a mission for them. Dr. Massey saw me before stage two and for stage three at her beautiful new office in Chicago, as it is a little closer to Kansas. She has been wonderful each time. She really listens to what is important to me as a patient and adjusts her procedure to take it into account. She has treated us like friends while maintaining a professionalism that instilled in us a great confidence in her ability to help.

And my outcome has been great! I have had no complications from either of the surgeries, and people who see me tell me how good I look. I saw my primary care doctor recently (the only person besides my husband and Dr. Massey who has seen the bare skin finished result), and she told me that my breasts look really good.

I am very thankful that Dr. Massey responded to my inquiry that day almost a year ago. It has been a privilege to have her as my physician. I truly admire the work she is doing.

Cheri Varvil

Janice Hardy speaks on breast cancer treatments by Dr. Marga Massey.

Kelly Zabilka's Story:

Dear Dr. Massey,

I promise I’m not stalking you. I did do a little research to find you and I simply want to thank you and update you on my son’s last 15 years.

15 years ago today, you were a resident (I think) at Duke in the summer of 1994 when our son, Nicholas, was admitted to the PICU following a car accident. To help you remember, he was the one who came in and everyone thought he had a “Bobby Hurley" injury…you did an exploratory scope process (or something like that) and found that he did NOT have one of those…I remember you saying that you were at the movies seeing Forrest Gump with your mother when you were paged. You and everyone else at Duke didn’t think he’d live. He did. The prognosis we received upon leaving the hospital was grim. We left for home in Kansas and didn’t adjust very well. We had daily visits to physical therapists and weekly visits to the pulmonologist in Kansas City. We emigrated to Kentucky in November of '94 where we had lots of friends and family for support and have been here ever since.

The extreme physical, mental and academic problems doctors predicted for Nick’s future in 1994 never came to be. Nick has been extremely successful in school and graduated from high school on June 5 with honors. He never needed any special services and has completed an honors/AP Pre-College curriculum. He took a total of 5 AP courses and 3 dual-credit college courses. He graduated with a gpa of 3.83. He finished fifth in his graduating class of 220. Sometimes I am overwhelmed by what he has achieved.

In addition to success with academics, Nick became a cross-country runner. Even though he still has major scar tissue and reduced breath sounds in his lungs and struggles with some fairly severe asthma, he runs. He’s been running since 7th grade and has been a Kentucky state meet qualifier for three out of four years in high school.

I guess it sounds like I’m bragging. I probably am. I am very proud of him. What I want you to know is that it is due, at least in part, to you and your efforts. It looks as if you no longer practice the same sort of medicine and I’m sure you are fantastic at what you do. We are aware that the nature of your attention and treatment of our son was well above and beyond the call of duty. We have kept in touch with the firefighter that performed CPR on Nick on the side of the highway and the LifeFlight nurse who continued to check on him while he was in the hospital.

I really don’t want to bother you but want you to know that Nick’s story has a happy ending. I remember asking one of the nurses in the PICU how she could stand working with children who were suffering every day and her answer was: “because they get better and go home." I wanted to make sure you know that Nick got better and has had a fabulous life so far.

Nick will be entering Murray State University in Murray Kentucky this fall and plans to become a Veterinarian. If he is a successful applicant in 4 years, he would like to go to Auburn for Vet School. If you like, I can continue to keep you posted on his progress. I promise I won’t wear you out with it!

Thank you again for everything you did for us and for Nick. You are in my thoughts always. I’ve attached a few photos of Nick from the past year so you can see how he has grown and has had a wonderful life because of you. He runs, laughs, loves music, went to prom, took a family trip to the Czech Republic and graduated. There were days when we didn't think those things would ever happen.

Sincerely,
Kelly Zabilka

Karie's Story:
"Dr. Massey,I wanted to write and thank you for becoming theamazing surgeon you are today, I know that skill like yours does not come without a great deal of sacrifice, and sometimes you may wonder if it is worth it. I am here to say yes...youhave changed my life, and I don't have the words to thank you for being who you are! I admire your dedication, devotion, and perfectionism in your work. I had given up on reconstruction before I met you, I felt like Humpty Dumpty and all the kings horses and all the kings men couldnot put me back together again.But it didn't take the kingsmen,itwas the queen....you, who gave me hope, and now the realitythat I can be whole again. You did more forme then justput me back together, yougaveme a gift, the gift of feeling like awhole and beautifulwoman again inside and out. I LOVE YOU!!!!

I loved Charleston...I can see why you do as well. I wanted to share with you a beautiful experience I had there, the day before my surgery we went kayakingand we were visited by dolphins twice while we where out there, it was amazing they where only about 5 feet from me. Idon't know if you knew but my only sister died of breast cancer during my chemotherapy after a five year battle. She loved dolphins. In fact, her last wish was granted when she went to San Diego and swam with the dolphins four months before she passed away. She had been on my mind that weekend and I was nervous about my surgery. I have no doubt that she sent those dolphins to re-assure me that she is with me and everything would be fine, and it was. What an amazing experience this has all been for me.Charleston will always hold a special place in my heart...its funny how things work out!

You're amazing,and I look forward to seeing you again! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!Love, Karie

Laurel Trimble with Dr. Massey

Laurel's Story:
"Dr Marga Massey gave me my life back. I have a family history of breast cancer on both sides of the family. I watched my Mother battle breast cancer and watched my Aunt die of breast cancer at the age of 29. I made the difficult decision to have a prophylactic mastectomy, I wanted to take a pro-active choice and not wait for cancer to come to me."

"Dr. Massey immediately made me feel at ease discussing the different options. We decided on what was best for me. After my surgery, Dr Massey kept in constant contact. As a patient, I felt like Dr. Massey really cared about me, I was not just another case to her."

"The reconstruction took place over a period of several months but was well worth the wait. I feel great and I can wear a swimming suit with confidence. I have my life back, I no longer think about breast cancer on a daily basis. I feel like I have broken the trend in my family. I will not let breast cancer make me another statistic in my family. I love you Dr Massey and will always be grateful to you. Thank you for sharing your compassion and your talents with so many women."
- Love, Laurel Trimble

Ashley Packer

Ashley's Story:
"Losing both of your breasts at the age of 24 is a terrifying thing to go through. People would tell me," it doesn’t matter whether or not you have breasts. They do not define you as a woman." They were also women who had never faced this decision head on. I cannot tell you how comforting it was to wake up from my bilateral mastectomy and still have a breast mound. No matter how little they resembled my old breasts, I still had breasts. That is what mattered most to me. I spared myself the devastation of looking into the mirror and not feeling like my old self."

"The decision to have Dr. Massey perform my reconstruction is one that has impacted my life forever. She has done something for me that no one else could ever do. I am so happy with the person that I am today, inside and out. Dr Massey, Thank you for making me feel whole again. I will forever be grateful to you!"
- Ashley Packer

Joni Meehan (Santa's left)

Joni's Story:
"On March 29that 4:45 pm, I received a call from my general surgeon. She had previously performed a lumpectomy on me two days earlier. The lab results came back positive. That evening, I began my journey with breast cancer."

"During my consultation, I was given a brochure of FAQ’s on breast cancer. I was told to look on the internet for information and to gather any questions that I might have. Breast Cancer was a subject that I knew little about, and I was about to make medical decisions that were going to effect the rest of my life. I was reading about foreign terms and procedures that I had no education, background, or experience with. I had built my own support team of family and friends that had either medical backgrounds and /or experience with breast cancer. I learned that every woman’s experience was different, personal, and medically unique. I told myself I was going to approach this head-on with a positive attitude. The truth was, I felt alone and scared. I was not lucky enough to have the best positive results with every surgery. You are always told about the “worst possible case" and it seemed I hit it every time. I started to lose faith in my judgments. My final low was when I was given my different breast reconstruction options. I researched the web looking at the outcomes of each surgery. All would give me some type of physical limitations. Then I came across an article on Micro-Surgery for breast reconstruction. I found The Center for Microvascular Reconstruction’s web site. That’s when I called Dr. Massey’s office and spoke with Jill, her assisting nurse. Jill explained all of the possibilities, options, and information about the procedures and she answered all questions I had. Jill walked me through the information that I would need for the consultation and promptly scheduled an appointment with Dr. Massey. After meeting with Dr. Massey, I felt really good about my future. This was a woman who cared about me. She cared about the quality of life I wanted to lead after cancer. In my first meeting with the doctor, I was highly impressed with the two sides of Dr. Massey. There is the highly-trained and committed medical professional and a down-to-earth, sincere person."

"Initially when I first considered the procedure, I spoke to my plastic surgeon at home about my meeting with Dr. Massey. He explained to me the degree of professionalism that Dr. Massey had to possess; he informed me that only the elite of plastic surgeons can perform such an intricate procedure. She is one of the best of the “best" to be a micro-surgeon. I was overwhelmed by Dr. Massey’s effort to make sure that my breasts were going to be as natural and anatomical correct as possible. From the beginning when Dr. Massey was examining my case, as she was looking at my body I could see the commitment she was giving of herself to make sure that I was going to have the best outcome available."

"Marga Massey is a person that you cannot help getting to know. She made me feel as if she had opened her heart, felt my pain and let me in. My family was taken by her warm and caring personality towards all of us. When she looks into your eyes, she is looking past your body and into the person you are. I felt she knew the emotional rollercoaster I had been on. This is a woman whom truly cared about what I have been through. I cannot begin to express how Dr. Massey has given me back what breast cancer tried to take. The contact that I had with Jill and Dr. Massey throughout my procedures was impeccable. I was put to ease and comforted by the ability to have prompt and direct contact with Jill and Dr. Massey, (it was better than my relationship with my family doctor 5 miles down the road)."

"Thanks to Dr. Massey and Jill, I have breasts that feel like a natural, soft part of me. I met Dr. Massey as a surgeon and Marga Massey became my friend. It is a relationship I will always treasure."

Sincerely,
Joni Meehan

Barbara L. Comley(right)

Barbara's Story:
Dr Massey, The lymph transplant surgery means so much to me after twelve years of infections and being in and out of hospitals. The chance for a cure is a true miracle. As you know, I was desperate for help, even willing to have my arm taken off. I love you and thank you for hope for all the lymphedema patients.

Love, God Bless,
Barbara L. Comley

Tamara Aho

Tamara Aho and Dr. Marga

Jane Dinnan and Simon Johnson. Both patients received lymphnode transfers.

Linda Gail Owens

Amy Blumental (above)

If you would like to become a mermaid and share your story on our web page please contact:

Ashley Packer
866-446-0962
or email her at:
Ashley(at)drmarga.com

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