This story is one part of an ongoing series where NJ101.5 news reporter and anchorwoman Kelly Waldron chronicles her experiences after being diagnosed with Endometriosis. Follow "Kelly's Journey."

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It's been about two weeks since I received the news from my doctor that my endometriosis has resulted in my need for a partial hysterectomy.  I have now had time to digest the idea and, of course, I've been reading everything I can get my hands on.

I have also been going through every comment and personal story that those who are following my blog have shared with me.  I cannot tell you how appreciative I am for all of the information.

Today, I meet with the surgeon to hear what she has to say.

For the past week, I have been carrying around a pad of paper with me.  Every time something comes to my mind that I want to ask, I write it down so I won't forget.  I want to know exactly what the procedure entails.

What kind of down time I should expect?  How long will I be in the hospital?  What kind of pain medication is available other than percocet?  I can't take percocet.  It just doesn't agree with me.  I also want to know what I can expect afterwards?  How will my body react to the sudden loss of estrogen?  How does it work with hormones?  What type of hormones are available?  Will I definitely need them?  How soon will I be able to tell if I do?

The one and only time I had anesthesia, I hated the way I felt when I woke up.  I was trembling uncontrollably.  Is there something else they can give me to prevent that from happening?  Will my body change physically in any way because of the sudden loss of estrogen?  These are just some of the questions I came up with.  Obviously, my questions run the gamut, they are all over the map, but I write them as they come up.

I've also taken the time to speak with a number of people who have gone through the procedure.  Some went through it years ago, others only weeks ago.  Some were my age when they had the procedure.  Others were even younger.  I've also read up on holistic approaches which have been suggested to me as well.  I've read about special diets as well.  While, I wholeheartedly believe the holistic approach works for some and I respect when people choose to take that approach, it's just not the best option for me.

I am also encouraged by so many of your stories.  I have read each and every one.  I cannot tell you how much those stories are helping me and giving me strength as I go through this journey.

There are so many of you who have said that, in the long run, going through a hysterectomy was the best thing you have ever done.  Many of you have been very personal with me.  You've shared your highest and the lowest moments from your agony after surgery to your adjustment to hormone replacements.  You've told me what worked and what didn't work and how you came to those conclusions.

I am so very appreciative of your candor and your honesty.  Please continue to share.  If you think there are questions I should be asking that I'm missing, I welcome them.  Thank you for letting me share my story.  I look forward to hearing from you.

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