The following is the real-life story of Heidi, a DIEP Flap patient.
September 3, 2006

Dear Dr. Allen,

In May my world as I knew it came crashing to a halt. I was sure my breast biopsy would prove to be negative, but I was wrong. No one can explain adequately to someone else what it's like to be diagnosed with cancer unless they have walked that road themselves. I have never felt so alone in my life as I did then - even though surrounded by family and friends. I am a grandmother of four and still raising two young children at home. My children need me. The possibility of not being here for them sent an ache to the depths of my being.

My first reaction to the diagnosis was "It's only a breast, cut it off. Just save my life!" Little did I realize then that I would soon discover how strongly my femininity was connected to my upper anatomy being whole and feminine. Suddenly I was not only dealing with a disease that can kill, but mourning the thought of losing a breast as well.

After three lumpectomies my breasts were somewhat disfigured and I was told I had to do six weeks of radiation therapy. After declining that option, because of known and unknown side effects, I was told my only other choice was to have a mastectomy. I knew I did not want artificial implants, for personal as well as medical reasons.

I started researching books, articles, websites and interviewing people who had gone before me on this journey. Surely there had to be a better option out there for women that what I was running across.

And the, somehow, I was linked to your website. I studied it for days. I didn't dare call because I was afraid it was too good to be true and I couldn't bare another letdown. Well, finally I did call. And I was greeted by the kind voice of Michelle, who graciously answered many questions for me. She even gave me the name and number of a previous patient of yours to talk with. I cannot tell you what a difference that made to me. After talking with Sally about her experience coming to you for surgery I knew this was my answer! She was able to help me get my mind off the cancer and focus on looking and feeling better in the future. I talked with my husband, made the appointment for surgery, and finally had peace of mind!

Dr. Allen, you and your team are the most amazing medical staff I have ever dealt with - and I have had many surgeries and hospital stays in my lifetime. I grew up going to the Mayo Clinic for the first 43 years of my life. Neither they, nor anyone else can hold a candle to you and your staff! You are all so nice, compassionate, caring and humble. And your expertise as a surgeon is unsurpassed! I thank God for leading me to your website. He knew exactly what I needed - excellence and understanding.

Thank you so much for pioneering the DIEP flap and for using your time and talents to help women fell whole again. Not only am I now cancer free, but I look much better than when I first came to you. Who could've thought that to be possible?! I fell in love with you and your team there in Charleston and I tell everybody I can about the wonderful work you do and what wonderful people you all are. (If I lived there, I'd be asking to fill out an employment application!).

Dr. Allen, with all my heart I say, thank you. Thank you so very much. God bless you!

With deep appreciation,

Heidi H.