So this is long over due but yes I am done with radiation. I finished last Monday, YAY! I will be taking Tomoxifen (a pill) for the next five years. I have a few more follow up appointment at the end of the month and will not have to be back for another six months. And will continue to go every six months for the next five years.
All my scans have been clear but my Doctors haven't used the word "remission" yet. But that is okay. Right now, I am cancer free and done with the hard part of this treatment. I think I can handle taking a simple pill every day.
It's been a very hard year and I got through it. Honestly, I didn't think I would have made it but here I am. With everything done and said, I can still find something to be thankful about. This experience has brought me closer to my family and friends. I don't think I can ever express enough how thankful I am for the support you have given me over the last eight months. The support is what helped give me strength to get through this. I wouldn't have been this strong or brave without all of you. Thank you for the cards, prayers, emails, calls, dinners, hugs, tears, visits...thank you for being part of my life.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
Radiation
I know it's been so long since my last post. I really have no excuse. My update.....
I started radiation on September 23rd and reached my half way point on October 16th (Saidi's birthday!!). To save you from doing the math, I have a total of 36 treatments. I go Monday through Friday and each session lasts about 15 minutes. Monday's are my long days because after the treatment I see my radiologist. He basically just checks up on my progress and answers any questions I might have.
The treatment is not bad at all. I lay on this blue pillow that has been molded to my body and just lay still for about 5 minutes. The machine looks like this:
I started radiation on September 23rd and reached my half way point on October 16th (Saidi's birthday!!). To save you from doing the math, I have a total of 36 treatments. I go Monday through Friday and each session lasts about 15 minutes. Monday's are my long days because after the treatment I see my radiologist. He basically just checks up on my progress and answers any questions I might have.
The treatment is not bad at all. I lay on this blue pillow that has been molded to my body and just lay still for about 5 minutes. The machine looks like this:
The room actually looks exactly like the picture. You can see the blue pillows (I'm sure they are called something else) in the background. The technicians have me lay down on the table and put my arm over my head. The machine is then positioned on the left side of me and the radiation is turned on for 30 seconds. Then it's position to the right and lastly, directly above me. I get radiation for 30 seconds in each position. That's it. I don't feel anything during the process.
Although, I really can't say the whole process is painless. My skin is starting to break down. It looks like a really bad sunburn. Before my skins starts to peel off it turns a bit on the black side. The worst is under my arm, which is good, because I don't have much feeling there. The pain is not unbearable but more on the irritate side.
On Friday, one of the techs informed me the Doctor may take me off radiation for a bit, to heal. I'm not very excited about that. I already circled November 11th on my calender. But we will see what my Doctor says today. I promise to give you an update as soon as I get home. Well, give me a few hours. How about an update around 8 or so.
UPDATE: My Doctor was out of the office today. I'm not going to be able to see him until Wednesday.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Chemo is over!!!!
My last chemo was on Tuesday the 1st. I am so happy to have that behind me. And I feel good. I think it's knowing I no longer have to get any more of that "stuff" pumped into me. Right now, I am still unsure what the exact date of my radiation will be. But it's still the same information, I have my CT on the 17th and SHOULD get my treatment plan then. So look for an update around then. Thank you everyone for your support through this whole ordeal. I don't know what I would have done with out all of your well wishes and prayers.
Now that chemo is over, I am so much more positive about the future and I know I will breeze through radiation.
Now that chemo is over, I am so much more positive about the future and I know I will breeze through radiation.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Winding down
August 11th was my 5th chemo....one more to go. This round was interesting because I had a new side effect to deal with, dizziness. I was dizzy all week. I even fell straight into a wall on Friday. I hit my head pretty hard but no bruising or cuts. Sunday the new side effects continued and I was sick to my stomach. I was vomiting all Sunday night. That REALLY sucked. On Monday, I thought I was good to go to work but still felt weak, so I left early and rested at home. Today, MUCH MUCH better.
And yes! My last chemo is on September 1st. I am so excited about it. I also met with my radiologist on Friday and he told me I will be getting a three week break before starting on radiation. This is great news, because radiation is Monday - Friday for 7 weeks. So far, the run down is this. On September 17th, I will be getting a CT scan and possible starting radiation the following Monday. The actually radiation procedure will last about 15 minutes but as I said before, everyday. That is going to get old really quick.
I will update you with the exact dates when I get them.
Okay, thank you again for all the kind words and prayers.
And yes! My last chemo is on September 1st. I am so excited about it. I also met with my radiologist on Friday and he told me I will be getting a three week break before starting on radiation. This is great news, because radiation is Monday - Friday for 7 weeks. So far, the run down is this. On September 17th, I will be getting a CT scan and possible starting radiation the following Monday. The actually radiation procedure will last about 15 minutes but as I said before, everyday. That is going to get old really quick.
I will update you with the exact dates when I get them.
Okay, thank you again for all the kind words and prayers.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Four down, two to go
Well, Tuesday was my fourth chemo. I was sick right off the bat that day. My doctor did lower my dosage from my last chemos but I forgot to take my medication in the morning. So, I got started on the wrong foot. Yesterday was more of the same, today not too bad but I am not out of the woods. I am able to function, I'm actually working from home today. And will be doing the same tomorrow. Good thing, because I can't imagine trying to put on a face for my co-workers. Or driving to work, I can imagine, with my luck, getting sick as soon as I get there and then trying to get back home.
Well, everything else is going okay. My hair for some reason is growing back in patches. I am not sure what that is about. But two more chemos, I am sure it will start to thin out again. If I have time later, I'll post some pictures. It's nothing like it was with the first round of pictures. It really thinned out all over, but like I said some spots have some regrowth.
Well, everything else is going okay. My hair for some reason is growing back in patches. I am not sure what that is about. But two more chemos, I am sure it will start to thin out again. If I have time later, I'll post some pictures. It's nothing like it was with the first round of pictures. It really thinned out all over, but like I said some spots have some regrowth.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Half way through
Well, last Tuesday marked the half way point through my chemo. I only have three more to go. If everything is on track I will be done on September 1st. I have to admit the third cycle side effects lingered on a bit. I still don't feel 100% and I normally start to feel better about this time. So, I finally called my doctor and she was also concerned. She said she will be changing the dosage of Taxol. The next rounds should be easier on me.
My overall energy level is down. I have been trying to go out and walk everyday, because that usually helps me sleep at night but that is tough to do. I'm trying new things to help me pick up my energy like meditation. It's helped with the pain from my shots but as far as energy, it just puts me to sleep. I hear yoga is good so I may try that.
My next treatment is at the end of the month. September is just around the corner.
My overall energy level is down. I have been trying to go out and walk everyday, because that usually helps me sleep at night but that is tough to do. I'm trying new things to help me pick up my energy like meditation. It's helped with the pain from my shots but as far as energy, it just puts me to sleep. I hear yoga is good so I may try that.
My next treatment is at the end of the month. September is just around the corner.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Second Chemo
Well, it's been about four days from my second chemo session and I have to say, I am doing well. I don't feel as bad as I did last time but the week isn't over. I am eating much, much better this time around. Lots of fruits, veggies and jamba juices. I took Monday and Tuesday off for treatment and recovery. Wednesday and Thursday I worked from home and today I came in. Not too bad.
Even better news, I still have my eyebrows. Not that it matters, I have to draw them in because they are so thin, but a sharpie is still not needed. I have decided to wear my wig to work, I feel more professional that way (although I never dress the part). I were a head scarf after work. I have a few hats but the sun hasn't been out for me to wear them. But I don't mind, with these hot flashes I will take this cool weather.
That's all I really have to report today. I hope everyone is in good health. Take care.
Even better news, I still have my eyebrows. Not that it matters, I have to draw them in because they are so thin, but a sharpie is still not needed. I have decided to wear my wig to work, I feel more professional that way (although I never dress the part). I were a head scarf after work. I have a few hats but the sun hasn't been out for me to wear them. But I don't mind, with these hot flashes I will take this cool weather.
That's all I really have to report today. I hope everyone is in good health. Take care.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
It's done
My hair is gone! It was falling out like crazy so I decided just shave it on Wednesday. I didn't want to wait the two days because it was falling out more and more everyday and I was scared I would wake up with a bald spot. And I am an impatient person.
I do have to admit I really look like my mom with a bald head (pointed out by Saidi). I really only remember my mom with a bald head growing up, so I guess with that image and now me being bald, we're twins (I would go that fair but with the head and nose, I'm her daughter). I'll try to post video later today. I have to edit a few things, Claudia was being a little of a potty mouth that night.
I don't know if this will work but here is some video of my hair coming out. It's a link, I wasn't able to view it but you may have better luck.
Monday, June 1, 2009
End of my first cycle
Well, I'm nearing the end of my first chemo cycle and starting a new one Monday. It was big news to me that I will be starting so soon. When I first met with my Dr. she informed me each cycle would consist of one week on and three week off, well turns out it's one week on and two weeks rest. I didn't really argue with her. This just means I will be done sooner, a month sooner. So, I'm okay with the change. Everything else is good. My blood count is still up, which is really good. Side effect wise, okay. My taste buds are shot. Tea tastes like metal and they are super sensitive. If food has any little bit of chili in it, my mouth is on fire. And it kills me. No more chicken bowls with hot salsa from Chipolte.
The big side effect my hair. Right on schedule the 11 day post chemo, my first clump of hair came out. Since then, it's been falling out like crazy. Especially in the shower. I can't even run my fingers through my hair. Luckily I inherited my dad's hair, so I have a ton to spare. I don't have any bald spots and it isn't looking thin. It is getting very annoying though. I wore it back today and was scared to touch it. My solution, I'm going to shave it off, this Saturday. Quite a bit of people are trying to talk me out of it but I am set. The hair is coming off in bunches and seems never ending. I want to get it over with. So there!
Overall, I'm doing very good (mentally and physically). I finally feel like I am coming up for air. It's been a whirl wind of events and procedures. Friday was the real day I woke up and felt like I was me again. I haven't felt that way since before the surgery. I am doing everything on my own now. Opening doors, seat belts, cleaning, cooking and I am going back to work. I think getting back to work had a lot to do with me feeling like me again. I actually had something to look forward too.
The whole 7 weeks I have been off, I really had no sense of days or time, there was no reason for me to. I think I was further in a slum than I realized. I have always been at peace with my diagnose and everything that came with it (mastectomy, losing my hair, etc). I can't change anything, I just have to accept it. What I didn't notice was that I also gave up. I saw no sense in anything. What's the point of doing my hair, it's going to fall out. What's the point of getting out of my p.j.'s I'm not doing anything. I really did need something to look forward to again. Something that I liked to do and that was work. My identity is really tied to what I do, helping people. I do get a joy out of my job, and not doing it for 7 weeks, in a way, made me lose myself for a bit.
So, needless to say, work was great. I walked in to a frantically waving and smiling Noelle. They decorated my office with red streamers, balloons and a "welcome back" sign. It was very cute. Everyone even came upstairs to share some cookies with me. I can't believe what a great set of people I work with. They give so much to the families that call in and have so much more to give to co-workers. I honestly don't think I am ever going to leave NCMEC.
So, that is that. Enjoy.
P.S. I started to get an itching in my inner ear, just like I normally do before a sinus infection, so I told my Dr. She first flipped because I can't get sick and then put me on antibiotics. Well, when she was examining my ears she informed me my ear drums were ruptured. I just had to share this because I am notorious for having bad hearing. We first attributed it to having so much hair over my ears but now we know the real reason.
The big side effect my hair. Right on schedule the 11 day post chemo, my first clump of hair came out. Since then, it's been falling out like crazy. Especially in the shower. I can't even run my fingers through my hair. Luckily I inherited my dad's hair, so I have a ton to spare. I don't have any bald spots and it isn't looking thin. It is getting very annoying though. I wore it back today and was scared to touch it. My solution, I'm going to shave it off, this Saturday. Quite a bit of people are trying to talk me out of it but I am set. The hair is coming off in bunches and seems never ending. I want to get it over with. So there!
Overall, I'm doing very good (mentally and physically). I finally feel like I am coming up for air. It's been a whirl wind of events and procedures. Friday was the real day I woke up and felt like I was me again. I haven't felt that way since before the surgery. I am doing everything on my own now. Opening doors, seat belts, cleaning, cooking and I am going back to work. I think getting back to work had a lot to do with me feeling like me again. I actually had something to look forward too.
The whole 7 weeks I have been off, I really had no sense of days or time, there was no reason for me to. I think I was further in a slum than I realized. I have always been at peace with my diagnose and everything that came with it (mastectomy, losing my hair, etc). I can't change anything, I just have to accept it. What I didn't notice was that I also gave up. I saw no sense in anything. What's the point of doing my hair, it's going to fall out. What's the point of getting out of my p.j.'s I'm not doing anything. I really did need something to look forward to again. Something that I liked to do and that was work. My identity is really tied to what I do, helping people. I do get a joy out of my job, and not doing it for 7 weeks, in a way, made me lose myself for a bit.
So, needless to say, work was great. I walked in to a frantically waving and smiling Noelle. They decorated my office with red streamers, balloons and a "welcome back" sign. It was very cute. Everyone even came upstairs to share some cookies with me. I can't believe what a great set of people I work with. They give so much to the families that call in and have so much more to give to co-workers. I honestly don't think I am ever going to leave NCMEC.
So, that is that. Enjoy.
P.S. I started to get an itching in my inner ear, just like I normally do before a sinus infection, so I told my Dr. She first flipped because I can't get sick and then put me on antibiotics. Well, when she was examining my ears she informed me my ear drums were ruptured. I just had to share this because I am notorious for having bad hearing. We first attributed it to having so much hair over my ears but now we know the real reason.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Week one down
Well, the first week post chemo is coming to an end. And it wasn't too bad. I had absolutely no energy the day after and it's slowly coming back. I have never felt so lazy in my life. And if you know me well, you know how lazy I can get. On night I was in terrible pain but didn't want to use any resources to turn over and get comfortable.
I keep hearing this is going to get worse as time goes on, but I am my head up. Jose is doing a good job at keeping me laughing. Everyone once in a while, he pulls my hair to see if it's coming out. That's the big thing I am waiting for right now. I think it's the big initiation into chemo. So far, just stray hairs. I keep thinking is that a normal hair coming out or is it the chemo. If I go by statistics, my hair should start to really shed June 2nd. I did see the positive side of it though, it concerns a Halloween costume. And yes....you have to wait until October to see what it will be.
Pain wise, I'm okay, sore. Still trying to find a comfortable position at night. My insomnia is pretty bad though. Today I woke up at 5 am, which is sleeping in at this point. But I am sure it doesn't help that I take 3 hour naps in the middle of the day. Well, just wanted to give a quick little update. Thank you for all the well wishes.
I keep hearing this is going to get worse as time goes on, but I am my head up. Jose is doing a good job at keeping me laughing. Everyone once in a while, he pulls my hair to see if it's coming out. That's the big thing I am waiting for right now. I think it's the big initiation into chemo. So far, just stray hairs. I keep thinking is that a normal hair coming out or is it the chemo. If I go by statistics, my hair should start to really shed June 2nd. I did see the positive side of it though, it concerns a Halloween costume. And yes....you have to wait until October to see what it will be.
Pain wise, I'm okay, sore. Still trying to find a comfortable position at night. My insomnia is pretty bad though. Today I woke up at 5 am, which is sleeping in at this point. But I am sure it doesn't help that I take 3 hour naps in the middle of the day. Well, just wanted to give a quick little update. Thank you for all the well wishes.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
First chemo
Well, today was my first day of chemo and it went well. Jose and I were there for about 4 hours. We didn't get seen for about 30-40 minutes and the treatment was about 3 hours. Overall, it wasn't too bad. It hurt when they placed the needle in the port but after that it was nothing. I made a new friend and slept most of the time. Afterwards, we went out to eat. I am still able to taste food. I guess in a few days everything will start to taste like metal or cardboard. I'm continuing to eat cold drinks and ice to prevent the sores in my mouth and throat. But I don't think it's working because my throat is hurting a little more every hour. The nausea is not bad, I actually think it's all in my head. I'm on a ton of nausea meds, so I am sure that won't be bad.
Well, I have a few follow up appointments to check my blood count, symptoms, and meds. Again, they are going to keep a close eye on me the next three weeks. My next treatment is in three weeks, I haven't got an appointment date. I may get that June 1st. Big thing coming up, besides the count down to my shower, is my hair falling out. They said it should happen in about 10-14 days. But my new friend informed me hers didn't fall out until she was well into her second treatment. I'm going to wait until that first clump of hair comes out and will let Perla go to town on it. I really don't mind me being bald so much. I am sure it will be emotional when it happens but I can live with it. I am a little concerned about my eyebrows and eyelashes. Don't know why but I think once I lose that I will be pretty self conscious.
So, that's that. Day one is going off without a hitch. I'll keep you updated through the week. Thank you everyone for the texts and emails. I appreciate it.
Well, I have a few follow up appointments to check my blood count, symptoms, and meds. Again, they are going to keep a close eye on me the next three weeks. My next treatment is in three weeks, I haven't got an appointment date. I may get that June 1st. Big thing coming up, besides the count down to my shower, is my hair falling out. They said it should happen in about 10-14 days. But my new friend informed me hers didn't fall out until she was well into her second treatment. I'm going to wait until that first clump of hair comes out and will let Perla go to town on it. I really don't mind me being bald so much. I am sure it will be emotional when it happens but I can live with it. I am a little concerned about my eyebrows and eyelashes. Don't know why but I think once I lose that I will be pretty self conscious.
So, that's that. Day one is going off without a hitch. I'll keep you updated through the week. Thank you everyone for the texts and emails. I appreciate it.
Monday, May 18, 2009
At the request of Moses
So, tomorrow is my first round of chemo. I'm not quite sure how I feel about it. I think my biggest fear was the staff using my port. It's still weird to me, I mean it's a tube in my vein and a little button that allows access. Today I had blood pulled from it and it wasn't bad at all. It was just a prick the same prick that I feel when they pull blood from my arm. Plus, after my port experience I don't think I ever want a needle put in my are ever again. I don't believe I mentioned it but they blew two of my veins during the procedure. My forearm is till purple. I don't want to go through that every month.
Not only did I get blood pulled I also got four new prescriptions for nausea. My Dr. wants to make sure I have no nausea, she wants to prevent it from the get go. So, now I have to take a total of 9 pills a day. AND I will be getting more on Wednesday. I am getting an injection to help bring back up my platelet count. Chemo will bring my red blood count way down, which is a very bad thing. The big side affect of the injection is bone pain. So, I will be on pain killers most of my time on chemo. At this time, I don't care, I want to get through this without a whole lot of disruption in my daily life.
Well, I will post a new blog tomorrow night, the latest on Wednesday night. Oh! I start work on June 1st. I am going to take it very slow. I won't actually work a whole week, three days will be half days. I also am well aware of my limits now. I am sure I will be good to go by the 1st. I want to try the week and if it's just too much, then I will go back on leave. I promise. Okay, wish me luck.
Not only did I get blood pulled I also got four new prescriptions for nausea. My Dr. wants to make sure I have no nausea, she wants to prevent it from the get go. So, now I have to take a total of 9 pills a day. AND I will be getting more on Wednesday. I am getting an injection to help bring back up my platelet count. Chemo will bring my red blood count way down, which is a very bad thing. The big side affect of the injection is bone pain. So, I will be on pain killers most of my time on chemo. At this time, I don't care, I want to get through this without a whole lot of disruption in my daily life.
Well, I will post a new blog tomorrow night, the latest on Wednesday night. Oh! I start work on June 1st. I am going to take it very slow. I won't actually work a whole week, three days will be half days. I also am well aware of my limits now. I am sure I will be good to go by the 1st. I want to try the week and if it's just too much, then I will go back on leave. I promise. Okay, wish me luck.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Recovery
My recovery is coming along. I can get up on my own, I'm driving and my right arm can now go up to shoulder level. Not for a long time but it gets up there. Yesterday I had my remaining two drains removed, so, I was very excited that in 48 hours I will be able to take a shower. Then, today I had my port placed on the left side of my chest. This means its birdie baths for the next 10 days. A port is a type of catheter that is under the skin so there is less chance of infection. It’s a little weird because I can feel the port and see it sticking out of my chest.
Here is a picture of the port:
The placement of it was a little scare because I was awake. But they gave me something to help with the anxiety and it went very quickly after that. My neck is a little sore but overall I’m doing well. Just very disappointed about my shower.
The count down to chemo begins. My first treatment is in one week. There will be a mixed bag of side effects but I am prepared for them. My sister-in-law is counting down the days to shave my head (and yes I will post pictures). I have been in contact with women just a few steps ahead of me in treatment. It’s been so helpful to talk to them. Their side effects appear to be minimal and manageable, loss of appetite, hair loss, fatigue, etc. So, yes it will be hard but it’s something that I can work through and (hopefully) won't keep me for a normal life.
Here is a picture of the port:
The placement of it was a little scare because I was awake. But they gave me something to help with the anxiety and it went very quickly after that. My neck is a little sore but overall I’m doing well. Just very disappointed about my shower.
The count down to chemo begins. My first treatment is in one week. There will be a mixed bag of side effects but I am prepared for them. My sister-in-law is counting down the days to shave my head (and yes I will post pictures). I have been in contact with women just a few steps ahead of me in treatment. It’s been so helpful to talk to them. Their side effects appear to be minimal and manageable, loss of appetite, hair loss, fatigue, etc. So, yes it will be hard but it’s something that I can work through and (hopefully) won't keep me for a normal life.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Today was a good day
I got out of the house!! Perla took me to my doctors appointment in the morning and then was kind enough to take me to run errands afterward. At the end of the morning she even took me out for some ice cream. I think the little outing was good for my moral. It really did lift up my spirits. Being stuck in the house for two weeks has really done a number on me. Before I was sleeping most of the day because I was healing but now I think it's just pure laziness. I am still sore but for the most part I can get around on my own. I still can't lift my arms up, especially my right arm. Perla had to open the car door for me and put my seat belt on. I got a good laugh about that.
The big up date this week is that I will be starting chemo on the 19th of this month. Everything is rolling along now. I will be doing one treatment every three weeks, for a totally of 6 cycles. Right after this I will start my radiation. So far, it looks like I will be going through radiation for about 7 weeks. I will get more information on that in August. Which I don't mind. I just want to focus on chemo at this point. I should be going back to work in June, which I am very excited about. It would be nice to, one get out of the house, as well as, keeping busy.
I also want to give another big thank you to everyone. The dinners have been great and I do appreciate the company. Also, thank you for everyone that helped out with the yard sale. It was unbelievable how much every chipped in and even from people who don't even know me. Please send them my thanks and I can't thank everyone else enough for your help.
The big up date this week is that I will be starting chemo on the 19th of this month. Everything is rolling along now. I will be doing one treatment every three weeks, for a totally of 6 cycles. Right after this I will start my radiation. So far, it looks like I will be going through radiation for about 7 weeks. I will get more information on that in August. Which I don't mind. I just want to focus on chemo at this point. I should be going back to work in June, which I am very excited about. It would be nice to, one get out of the house, as well as, keeping busy.
I also want to give another big thank you to everyone. The dinners have been great and I do appreciate the company. Also, thank you for everyone that helped out with the yard sale. It was unbelievable how much every chipped in and even from people who don't even know me. Please send them my thanks and I can't thank everyone else enough for your help.
Monday, April 27, 2009
I'm back
I want to first thank everyone for the support, visits, dinners, comments, letters, EVERYTHING. The support is positively overwhelming. It gives me a great sense of love and support. I know I am not going through this alone and the support is keeping up my spirit and faith, which, will help me get through this.
Okay, so it's 6 days out of surgery. Right now I'm doing good sore and going out and about on my own nowadays. Every little thing does drain my engery, so as long as I can take naps in between tasks, I'm good. Today was an extra long day. Three doctor's appointments with the reconstruction and breast surgoen and my genetic testing results. And here we go....
First my healing, everthing is going well. Not much to really report there, I did have two drains removed. Everything looks good. As many of you know, I didn't have a cluster of lymph nodes removed because they were to close to a main vein going to my heart. The reason the nodes were to hard to remove was because they were cancerous and hard, like pebbles. My doctor was concerned that to much tugging on the lymph nodes would damage my vein and if they were damaged there is a chance I could loss my arm. Good news is that they are going to hit me, as Dr. Smith says, "with everything including the kitchen sink". She is very confident that this going to kill everything left.
Now for the scientific jargin. I am in Stage IIIc. My tumor was > 5cm and 18 out of 36 lymph nodes tested positive. The cancer is not any where else. I'm a little shaky on the actual structure of the cancer cell but got the basic and importance of it. It tested negative for a protein that makes it immune to chemo, YEAH! It also tested positive for estrogen. That basically means the cell feeds on estrogen, so hormone therapy will release an estrogen like protein. It will actually be like a poison when the cell tries to eat it. So, another YEAH!! Everything appears to be treatable.
So, the way I understand everything is that the chemo will kill any cells wondering around my body, the radiation will attack the localized area where they were found and the hormone therapy is going to get anything left behind. Obviously, this is going to be a long battle but everything is looking positive.
The last thing is genetic testing. Well, it turns out I am positive for a "deletrious mutation" in "BRCA 2 sequencing. Basically, this bumped my chances of getting breast cancer to 84%. Scary, huh? Even if I would have been tested four years ago, I don't think I would have went under the bilateral mastechomy but I would have been tested 6 months. Maybe caught this earlier but I can't really get hung up on that now. Right now I have cancer and a long fight ahead of me. I am just focusing on resting and staying healthy (and yes everyone I changed my diet, I now choke down vegetables).
So, there you go.
Okay, so it's 6 days out of surgery. Right now I'm doing good sore and going out and about on my own nowadays. Every little thing does drain my engery, so as long as I can take naps in between tasks, I'm good. Today was an extra long day. Three doctor's appointments with the reconstruction and breast surgoen and my genetic testing results. And here we go....
First my healing, everthing is going well. Not much to really report there, I did have two drains removed. Everything looks good. As many of you know, I didn't have a cluster of lymph nodes removed because they were to close to a main vein going to my heart. The reason the nodes were to hard to remove was because they were cancerous and hard, like pebbles. My doctor was concerned that to much tugging on the lymph nodes would damage my vein and if they were damaged there is a chance I could loss my arm. Good news is that they are going to hit me, as Dr. Smith says, "with everything including the kitchen sink". She is very confident that this going to kill everything left.
Now for the scientific jargin. I am in Stage IIIc. My tumor was > 5cm and 18 out of 36 lymph nodes tested positive. The cancer is not any where else. I'm a little shaky on the actual structure of the cancer cell but got the basic and importance of it. It tested negative for a protein that makes it immune to chemo, YEAH! It also tested positive for estrogen. That basically means the cell feeds on estrogen, so hormone therapy will release an estrogen like protein. It will actually be like a poison when the cell tries to eat it. So, another YEAH!! Everything appears to be treatable.
So, the way I understand everything is that the chemo will kill any cells wondering around my body, the radiation will attack the localized area where they were found and the hormone therapy is going to get anything left behind. Obviously, this is going to be a long battle but everything is looking positive.
The last thing is genetic testing. Well, it turns out I am positive for a "deletrious mutation" in "BRCA 2 sequencing. Basically, this bumped my chances of getting breast cancer to 84%. Scary, huh? Even if I would have been tested four years ago, I don't think I would have went under the bilateral mastechomy but I would have been tested 6 months. Maybe caught this earlier but I can't really get hung up on that now. Right now I have cancer and a long fight ahead of me. I am just focusing on resting and staying healthy (and yes everyone I changed my diet, I now choke down vegetables).
So, there you go.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
So, forget everything I said before
On Wednesday, I got off work early for a doctor's appointment. Before the appointment I stopped by home and received a surprising call. Turns out my doctor's were able to arrange their schedules and get me in early. WAY EARLIER. My surgery date has been moved to April 21st. So, it's pretty real now, very real. I was pretty frantic when they told me. I immediately realized Wednesday was my last day of work. I called work and got everything in order there, well, I called Noelle and asked her to get everything in order (thank you again). And then I called Jose. This really caught us off guard, we both felt so unprepared. I still feel unprepared. I guess up until now, everything was just words.
Well, anyway, my surgery is at 1:30 and I should be out about 5 p.m. To be honest I am not sure how much I will be up for visitors that day but visiting hours are open 24 hours. Everything else stays the same. I will be in the hospital Wednesday and depending how I am doing can be released that day or Thursday. If you plan on writing the date on your calender put in pencil. Okay, Jose will try to keep everyone updated on Tuesday.
Side note: My dad recently had a disc replacement in his neck. He is out of the hospital and doing well at home. He is still resting so if you have any questions give me a call.
Well, anyway, my surgery is at 1:30 and I should be out about 5 p.m. To be honest I am not sure how much I will be up for visitors that day but visiting hours are open 24 hours. Everything else stays the same. I will be in the hospital Wednesday and depending how I am doing can be released that day or Thursday. If you plan on writing the date on your calender put in pencil. Okay, Jose will try to keep everyone updated on Tuesday.
Side note: My dad recently had a disc replacement in his neck. He is out of the hospital and doing well at home. He is still resting so if you have any questions give me a call.
Monday, April 13, 2009
About time
Well, as most of you know it's been very frustrating waiting and waiting for my doctor's to set a date and now it's here. My surgery is set for May 18th. I feel a little weird for being excited about the date. I am just glad things are now moving along. It seemed like I was never going to get a date.
The surgery will be in the morning and likely to last 4-5 hours. Both my Doctor's are great, Dr. Smith especially. I should be staying in the hospital about 2 days. Chemo will be about 3-4 weeks later. So, about June 15th (maybe). It's nice to have some type of timeline. It's all still tentative, well mostly the chemo portion. But it's something, I will take it.
I am going to be out of work for about 6 weks and will try to work through chemo. But we will see, I know I will have to be flexible during that time and know when to call in sick. And I promise I will.
K'bye
The surgery will be in the morning and likely to last 4-5 hours. Both my Doctor's are great, Dr. Smith especially. I should be staying in the hospital about 2 days. Chemo will be about 3-4 weeks later. So, about June 15th (maybe). It's nice to have some type of timeline. It's all still tentative, well mostly the chemo portion. But it's something, I will take it.
I am going to be out of work for about 6 weks and will try to work through chemo. But we will see, I know I will have to be flexible during that time and know when to call in sick. And I promise I will.
K'bye
Thursday, April 9, 2009
How it started
So, this is a little late but I wanted to have an easier way to update everyone. There is so much going on right now and everything seems to be changing every week, it's hard for me to keep up with it. Well, I will just start from the beginning.
(deep breath) On March 20, 2009, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. All together, BOOOO (yes I stole that line from you Saidi)!! I have to say, when my doctor first told me I wasn't surprised. For some reason, I always knew it was coming, but I never thought it would be this soon. I think the knowing that I had a high risk and deep down knowing it was in my future has helped me deal with it (I know morbid). But I also know everything will be okay and this is just a minor speed bump in my life. Right now, I'm just very anxious to get this part of my life over with.
I will be treated at St. Jude hospital in Fullerton. So, far it has been a very pleasant experience. First things first, the type of cancer I have is Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma (IDC). The name pretty much tells you where it is. It's in my ducts and is also found to be in a lymph node. I have already had bone scans and a PETct. The results were negative, so it hasn't spread anywhere else. I have also started on hormone therapy, which cuts off the hormones that the cancer is feeding on. So, as of now, it's not going anywhere.
As far as my surgery, I will be getting a bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. This is mostly a preventive measure on my part. I did take a genetic test but have not got my results. I may not get them for another two weeks, but due to my mom's age at her diagnoses, I am sure we all know the results. Even if it does turn up negative, I will sleep more at ease, knowing I did what I could to prevent this from happening again.
Next popular question, What stage are you in? I don't know. That answer is not going to come until after my surgery. The stages are based on the size of the tumor and how far into my lymph nodes it has spread. As of right now, my tumor is 4 cm and one lymph node was biopsied and tested positive. The obvious next question, when is the surgery!?! I'm not sure. I have two more appointments, the last one being on the 20th. The surgery will be scheduled after this date. My Doctor says it will be the end of the month or even early next month. I will let everyone know as soon as it has been scheduled. Trust me, it's as frustrating as it sounds.
Well, that is the first step in this whole ordeal. The next step is chemo and possibly radiation. We are taking this one step at a time, they don't want to overwhelm me and be responsible for my head exploiting. I'll give you what I know. Today I just had an appointment with a nurse navigator (sorta like a nurse/social worker). She informed me I will be on TAC chemo, which consists of the three drugs, Cytoxan, Adriamysin, and Taxotere. I will be on 6 cycles, about three months. That's about all I know. Now the possibly of radiation, this all depends on the size of my tumor and how far in my lymph nodes it is. Basically if the tumor is over 5 cm and/or 3 + lymph nodes test positive I will need it. I won't find this out until everything is removed measured and tested (exhale).
Okay, I think, in a nut shell, that is everything. I know dry and boring, but now we are all on the same page. Thank you everyone for the kind wishes and prayers. It's very nice to know I have so many friends and family looking out for me. I will try to update this as soon as I get anything new. Most likely it will be once a week. I will try to keep this going throughout chemo, as well. Thank you again, I can't explain how good it feels to know how much everyone cares. Love you all!
(deep breath) On March 20, 2009, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. All together, BOOOO (yes I stole that line from you Saidi)!! I have to say, when my doctor first told me I wasn't surprised. For some reason, I always knew it was coming, but I never thought it would be this soon. I think the knowing that I had a high risk and deep down knowing it was in my future has helped me deal with it (I know morbid). But I also know everything will be okay and this is just a minor speed bump in my life. Right now, I'm just very anxious to get this part of my life over with.
I will be treated at St. Jude hospital in Fullerton. So, far it has been a very pleasant experience. First things first, the type of cancer I have is Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma (IDC). The name pretty much tells you where it is. It's in my ducts and is also found to be in a lymph node. I have already had bone scans and a PETct. The results were negative, so it hasn't spread anywhere else. I have also started on hormone therapy, which cuts off the hormones that the cancer is feeding on. So, as of now, it's not going anywhere.
As far as my surgery, I will be getting a bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. This is mostly a preventive measure on my part. I did take a genetic test but have not got my results. I may not get them for another two weeks, but due to my mom's age at her diagnoses, I am sure we all know the results. Even if it does turn up negative, I will sleep more at ease, knowing I did what I could to prevent this from happening again.
Next popular question, What stage are you in? I don't know. That answer is not going to come until after my surgery. The stages are based on the size of the tumor and how far into my lymph nodes it has spread. As of right now, my tumor is 4 cm and one lymph node was biopsied and tested positive. The obvious next question, when is the surgery!?! I'm not sure. I have two more appointments, the last one being on the 20th. The surgery will be scheduled after this date. My Doctor says it will be the end of the month or even early next month. I will let everyone know as soon as it has been scheduled. Trust me, it's as frustrating as it sounds.
Well, that is the first step in this whole ordeal. The next step is chemo and possibly radiation. We are taking this one step at a time, they don't want to overwhelm me and be responsible for my head exploiting. I'll give you what I know. Today I just had an appointment with a nurse navigator (sorta like a nurse/social worker). She informed me I will be on TAC chemo, which consists of the three drugs, Cytoxan, Adriamysin, and Taxotere. I will be on 6 cycles, about three months. That's about all I know. Now the possibly of radiation, this all depends on the size of my tumor and how far in my lymph nodes it is. Basically if the tumor is over 5 cm and/or 3 + lymph nodes test positive I will need it. I won't find this out until everything is removed measured and tested (exhale).
Okay, I think, in a nut shell, that is everything. I know dry and boring, but now we are all on the same page. Thank you everyone for the kind wishes and prayers. It's very nice to know I have so many friends and family looking out for me. I will try to update this as soon as I get anything new. Most likely it will be once a week. I will try to keep this going throughout chemo, as well. Thank you again, I can't explain how good it feels to know how much everyone cares. Love you all!
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