The Trip

In planing the trip I spoke to many people. American Airlines was very helpful with getting me a last minute ticket and preferred seating on my return trip. In conversation it came up that the clerk with the airline had had a hysterectomy herself. Then when I was booking a hotel with Hotels.com, the operator had also has a hysterectomy. When we landed in Philadelphia and rented a car with Dollar, our friendly attendant had been wondering about having a hysterectomy herself. I had to wonder, is it normal for women to have their uterus removed at a certain age? If so, why aren't men having their testicles removed at the same rate?

My trusted friend traveled with me so my husband could work and care for our children. It was such a comfort to have my chosen sister there with me the whole time. There were moments when the pain melted away with her smile and encouraging laughter. When she held my hand, I drew upon her strength. When I could not speak for myself, she was my advocate.

When we met Dr. Toaff in person it was bittersweet. I knew he would soon change my life for the better. I also understood I would have to endure some more pain to get there. It is fair to say that I was apprehensively committed. Fortunately, Dr. Toaff's jovial nature put the color back in my cheeks. Within the hour I was able to laugh and look forward to the next day.

I was checked into Bryn Mawr Hospital with precise efficiency. The staff was reassuring and met my scared face with a smile. At times like that, it makes a big difference. At Bryn Mawr, we were definitely surrounded by earthbound angels.

Dr. Toaff escorted me into the surgical suite himself. He introduced me to the anesthesiologist and his operating room team. Their friendly nature put me at ease. I went to sleep knowing that I would soon be divorced from the pain.

After the surgery, Dr. Toaff went to the "green room" to give my friend the details of the surgery and assure her that all was well. The biopsy was tested and I was cancer free. The diagnosis of Adenomyosis was made with clinical certainty. The pain was removed from my body.

My friend was allowed to stay with me in the hospital. The nurses made up a real bed for her beside my own. For two nights I was in the arms of some true healers. The women of the maternity ward were like none I have ever met before. Their compassion and care was beyond anything I could have imagined or requested. I truly felt blessed.

The night before we checked out, Dr. Toaff returned to chat and give a motivational talk that would rival Tony Robbins. I have to be honest and say that I was crabby. I didn't want to look up, only complain. Dr. Toaff found this unacceptable to the healing process and took a try at stand up comedy. I laugh looking back. This man is truly one of a kind.

Two weeks later, I am really feeling better. I am beginning to understand that this is a chance at a new life. A life without pain or pills or side effects. I am so glad that I took a chance and saved my uterus.