Ch. 25 My Ups and Downs
As expected, recovery has had its ups and downs. As mentioned in my last entry I had a bone scan done due to joint aches and pain as well as morning stiffness. The results are in, AND.... unbelievably I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. I have had this diagnosis for about 2 months now and still cannot believe it. My doctor started me on Plaquenil 10 mg. So far, it has helped and my dosage was just doubled last week due to continued joint pain and stiffness. I have spoke to many of my physician friends regarding having such bad luck, hoping that this could just be a misdiagnosis from just having chemotherapy and my system just being a little abnormal, but none of them could site any studies that could relate a new diagnosis of RA being a result of having chemotherapy. But, I have learned that several research studies have related chronic stress to both breast cancer and autoimmune diseases such as RA. So, I am really trying to learn to take is easy, but I continue to enjoy taking care of others and my job which contains a certain amount of stress. But I am learning that it is not the stress that is the problem, it is how a person reacts to the stress and how that person allows the stress to affect them. I do not know if this played a role in my situation, but I do know that I am a constant worrier and I do internalize a lot, such as worry for others and making sure everyone is happy, healthy, and taken care of. Who knows, but it is definately something to think about.
That was a down, so now for an up! My hair continues to grow back and it is very CURLY!!! I cannot wait to upload a current photo. I would upload one now, but I do not have a good recent photo, so I will have to take one. The color of my hair also is a little darker than it was before chemotherapy. But the curliness is really amazing. Some people told me that the same thing happened to their loved one after chemo, but not as curly as mine. It is really crazy. Sometimes I look in the mirror and have to remind myself that it really is me and my hair. And, it is thicker too! I really like having a fresh start with my hair. It is so healthy and shiny. It reminds my on my new beginning!
I have had many follow-up appointments in the past few weeks. About a month ago I had a real scare. I returned for my 6 month follow-up mammogram from the time of the end of radiation and the results came back abnormal, but not for my right breast, this time for my left!!! All I could think of when the doctor called me was "please not cancer again". At this point I was told to relax, that I needed a spot focus mammogram on my left breast for a closer look. Dr. Spencer-Smith told me not to worry until we have something to worry about. So a week later, I had the spot focus mammogram performed and then a few days later, the results came in. Something remained abnormal on the mammogram, calcifications were present with fibrotic changes since my last mammogram in August 2008. What ?!?!? When I found out, I tried to remain strong, but I cried. I was so scared. I know that I did jump the gun a little, but it was just so scary to even think about, cancer again, and in my healthy breast? I did not think that I had the strength to go through everything again if it were cancer. This abnormality also scared many of my physicians and medical friends and I informed them of the results and as they read my studies. The radiologist recommended a follow-up ultrasound and biopsy. Dr. Spencer-Smith was out-of-town at the time but his office did schedule me for the ultrasound, but I was told I had to wait one more week for the biopsy. When I shared this information with a very close physician friend of mine, he took me under his wing. He did not understand why I had to wait for the biopsy since we already knew that it was recommended. To make a long story shorter, Dr. Barrio, my angel, called my insurance company and got everything approved and ordered along with the help of my radiation oncologist, Dr. Grace. The ultrasound and biopsy was done on a Wednesday and the results were in by the following Monday. And... nothing to worry about. The biopsy results showed calcifications and fibrotic changes only, no malignant cancer cells were found. Thank goodness. Everyone was so relieved, but of course me most of all. What a scare. So for now, I just have another mammogram ordered for 6 months which will be in March 2009. So for now, we just wait and enjoy life again.
And to end on a good note, my mother completed the 3-day Cancer Walk in Atlanta this month. They raised thousands of dollars for breast cancer. She said that it was a life changing experience and one that she hopes to do again next year. What a great event. I will upload some photos from that event soon too! But for now, I will go (my fingers are tired and my wrist is sore). *On a side note, I had wrist surgery 3 weeks ago from an old work injury, so I am also recovering from that right now too. Truth be known, I just like to do everything at one time... just kidding! Thanks again for all of your support. Until next time.....
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Ch. 24 - My Journey Continues
Ch. 24 - My Journey Continues
It has been a while since my last post, but I have just been taking some time to myself and trying to reflect on the journey that I have been through. After my radiation ended and my port was removed, I think I thought that I was finished... meaning, if no more treatment, no more suffering, or anything, just returning to myself. As much as I want that to be true, it is not. Since my last entry, I have received counseling by a psychiatrist named Dr. Miklusak. He is great and has really helped me in my recovery period. He has helped me to learn to take one day at a time and also to listen to my body when it is telling me to SLOW DOWN and take a moment to myself. Since radiation ended in March and I began Tamoxifen in April, I have had some crazy things happen to my body. For one, I did get my period. And boy did I get it!!! I had it for 3 months straight, with only about 3 days, twice, without bleeding. It was a nightmare and all of my doctors just told me to be patient, that the Tamoxifen would begin to suppress my ovary function and my period would go away. Well, they were right, but 3 MONTHS LATER. After I did stop bleeding, it was questionable of if I still had ovary function or not. This was a good question to determine it my new copper IUD was causing such extraordinary bleeding or if my ovaries had just kicked in and in high gear!! So Dr. Spencer-Smith checked my FSH level. Well, the level indicated that my ovaries were working afterall. This is good and bad! Good because I am young and I am sure that my husband would appreciate my keeping my hormones (avoiding the effects of early menopause) and bad because it means that I have to keep the IUD. This was okay with me just as long as I did not have such long bleeding again. Since that day in his office, my cycle has actually been normal and light. This is a silver lining. This however does not mean that I will get to have a baby naturally or even carry my own, but it does mean that I have ovary function which will keep my bones healthy and prevent early osteoporosis.
In regards to the childbearing question. Well, I have found a surrogate which is great news and we are hoping to be able to try to make that happen in about 1 year from now. It is not recommended for me to carry my own child because of me being estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor positive. This is okay with me though, well at least today it is, as long as our baby is healthy. And remember we have 8 frozen embryos waiting on us!!! Some days though I am not as positive regarding this experience being taken away from me, but I really try to keep a positive outlook.
I did have a bone scan done last week but have not gotten the results. I do experience extreme fatigue and joint aches from time to time, but I am told to expect this for up to 1 year. So for now, I am just checking in with all my doctors about every 3 months and trying to keep my usual smile on my face.
Thank you again for your support, thoughts, and prayers.
It has been a while since my last post, but I have just been taking some time to myself and trying to reflect on the journey that I have been through. After my radiation ended and my port was removed, I think I thought that I was finished... meaning, if no more treatment, no more suffering, or anything, just returning to myself. As much as I want that to be true, it is not. Since my last entry, I have received counseling by a psychiatrist named Dr. Miklusak. He is great and has really helped me in my recovery period. He has helped me to learn to take one day at a time and also to listen to my body when it is telling me to SLOW DOWN and take a moment to myself. Since radiation ended in March and I began Tamoxifen in April, I have had some crazy things happen to my body. For one, I did get my period. And boy did I get it!!! I had it for 3 months straight, with only about 3 days, twice, without bleeding. It was a nightmare and all of my doctors just told me to be patient, that the Tamoxifen would begin to suppress my ovary function and my period would go away. Well, they were right, but 3 MONTHS LATER. After I did stop bleeding, it was questionable of if I still had ovary function or not. This was a good question to determine it my new copper IUD was causing such extraordinary bleeding or if my ovaries had just kicked in and in high gear!! So Dr. Spencer-Smith checked my FSH level. Well, the level indicated that my ovaries were working afterall. This is good and bad! Good because I am young and I am sure that my husband would appreciate my keeping my hormones (avoiding the effects of early menopause) and bad because it means that I have to keep the IUD. This was okay with me just as long as I did not have such long bleeding again. Since that day in his office, my cycle has actually been normal and light. This is a silver lining. This however does not mean that I will get to have a baby naturally or even carry my own, but it does mean that I have ovary function which will keep my bones healthy and prevent early osteoporosis.
In regards to the childbearing question. Well, I have found a surrogate which is great news and we are hoping to be able to try to make that happen in about 1 year from now. It is not recommended for me to carry my own child because of me being estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor positive. This is okay with me though, well at least today it is, as long as our baby is healthy. And remember we have 8 frozen embryos waiting on us!!! Some days though I am not as positive regarding this experience being taken away from me, but I really try to keep a positive outlook.
I did have a bone scan done last week but have not gotten the results. I do experience extreme fatigue and joint aches from time to time, but I am told to expect this for up to 1 year. So for now, I am just checking in with all my doctors about every 3 months and trying to keep my usual smile on my face.
Thank you again for your support, thoughts, and prayers.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Ch. 23 - My Port-a-Cathe is OUT!!
Ch. 23 - My Port-a-Cath is OUT!!
On 4/29/2008, Dr. Shirazi removed my port-a-cath. It feels sore, but good to be free of the device. It really did not give me any problems until someone bumped it by accident or when something rubs up against it, like my seatbelt or my husband at night. She actually removed it in her office which was great and convenient. I could feel the tugging as she removed it which was crazy, but fun at the same time. My body was so sore after the procedure from me tensing all of my muscles during the procedure. It felt like I had been lifting weights, my arms and legs were so sore. My scar will be small and hopefully will fade with time. But I do like have a few battle scars from all that I have been through.
As for life, I am recovering well. I did have a slight meltdown after treatment ended. I think when I got diagnosed, I put on my battle gear and went into war. Now that the war is over, my body and my mind needed a well deserved break!! So... my wonderful surgeon recognized my condition, maybe the uncontrolled crying in her office gave it away (who knows), but she did take me out of work for a month for recovery time. This time off has been the best medicine for me at this point in my life. I have had the chance to stop and smell the roses as everyone says and enjoy more time at home with my pets and Clayton. We have done some gardening projects together and watched a lot of movies in the evenings. I am also a big American Idol fan so that has also been fun to keep up with 2 nights per week.
On Monday, I return to work at the hospital on a part-time basis. I am looking forward to getting back to work and will enjoy the part-time hours for now. I have also been spending some time with a psychiatrist, Dr. Mikulsak. He has been great at helping me through this difficult time in my life and helping me to redirect my focus. I have a very giving personality and it has been hard for me to put my needs first and everybody else's second, but he has been helping me in this effort. It is a very difficult thing for me, but I am learning to like it the more I do it. Who wouldn't? Right?
But anyway, life is good and I am thankful to be getting past this cancer year and moving on. I did get a little bad news the other day regarding some lab work I had done. My ANA is positive. This CAN be an indicator of an autoimmune disease process. So... I have had follow-up blood work performed but do not know the results of this bloodwork yet. But as soon as I know, I will let you all know as well. I am hoping this is just another adverse effect of the chemotherapy and will resolve on its own. And, by the way, I got a period!!!!! So, I have also been able to put the nigtmare of going through menopause behind me as well. Yeah!!
Take care and continue with my blog. I enjoy my friends and family being able to follow along my journey with me. It has been great therapy.
On 4/29/2008, Dr. Shirazi removed my port-a-cath. It feels sore, but good to be free of the device. It really did not give me any problems until someone bumped it by accident or when something rubs up against it, like my seatbelt or my husband at night. She actually removed it in her office which was great and convenient. I could feel the tugging as she removed it which was crazy, but fun at the same time. My body was so sore after the procedure from me tensing all of my muscles during the procedure. It felt like I had been lifting weights, my arms and legs were so sore. My scar will be small and hopefully will fade with time. But I do like have a few battle scars from all that I have been through.
As for life, I am recovering well. I did have a slight meltdown after treatment ended. I think when I got diagnosed, I put on my battle gear and went into war. Now that the war is over, my body and my mind needed a well deserved break!! So... my wonderful surgeon recognized my condition, maybe the uncontrolled crying in her office gave it away (who knows), but she did take me out of work for a month for recovery time. This time off has been the best medicine for me at this point in my life. I have had the chance to stop and smell the roses as everyone says and enjoy more time at home with my pets and Clayton. We have done some gardening projects together and watched a lot of movies in the evenings. I am also a big American Idol fan so that has also been fun to keep up with 2 nights per week.
On Monday, I return to work at the hospital on a part-time basis. I am looking forward to getting back to work and will enjoy the part-time hours for now. I have also been spending some time with a psychiatrist, Dr. Mikulsak. He has been great at helping me through this difficult time in my life and helping me to redirect my focus. I have a very giving personality and it has been hard for me to put my needs first and everybody else's second, but he has been helping me in this effort. It is a very difficult thing for me, but I am learning to like it the more I do it. Who wouldn't? Right?
But anyway, life is good and I am thankful to be getting past this cancer year and moving on. I did get a little bad news the other day regarding some lab work I had done. My ANA is positive. This CAN be an indicator of an autoimmune disease process. So... I have had follow-up blood work performed but do not know the results of this bloodwork yet. But as soon as I know, I will let you all know as well. I am hoping this is just another adverse effect of the chemotherapy and will resolve on its own. And, by the way, I got a period!!!!! So, I have also been able to put the nigtmare of going through menopause behind me as well. Yeah!!
Take care and continue with my blog. I enjoy my friends and family being able to follow along my journey with me. It has been great therapy.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Ch. 22 - Radiation is OVER!!!
Ch. 22 - Radiatin is OVER!!!
Thank you to everyone who is continuing to read my blog and follow me through my journey!! Life got a little crazy going to radiation everyday and battling the side effects, so... it has been a little while since my last entry. The entire process was different to say the least. About 2-3 weeks into the treatment, my breast became very itchy and red. I tried any cream my doctor recommended for finally got some relief with a prescription pill by mouth and 2% hydrocortisone cream. I did not have any skin breakdown, but just tenderness, like a sunburn and the itching!! There were a couple of delays with my treatment due to a problem with the machine, but it only took a couple of days for the repair. I was not complaining because it gave my skin time to heal.
Since my last entry I have gotten a clean bill of health from my OBGYN. I have also graduated from radiation. I do have to have a mammogram to establish a baseline for post-treatment in about 2 months and also in about 2 weeks I will begin taking the Tamoxifen everyday. The only thing that I have left to do for my cancer is to have my port-a-cathe removed. This should happen this week, YEAH!!!. I may actually feel like a person again instead of a patient.
The odd thing about my current life is my emotional status. Now that treatment has ended, I have had time to reflect on my life and what just happened to me. I do not think reality sat in until just recently. I have cried a lot lately and am currently taking some time from work to take care of myself and treat myself to some time off. Although I would like to claim this idea as my own, it was actually recommended by my surgeon who stated that I needed time to heal and to "mourn" the loss of this period of my life. I guess it really has not been a loss, but a learning experience; however, when I think about things more, it does feel like a loss at times because I do feel cheated of a healthy life. I also feel like having cancer forced me into being a prisoner of my own body and medical care. For me, this has been the hardest of all and I fought it to the end. So now, my body and mind are telling me that it is time to rest a little and give myself a break, physicall and emotionally. I am also making attempts to lessen my work load and taking up a hobby. I have recently began to enjoy photography more and more and recently won a photography contest and was also published in a photography book. Throughout my life, I have always been a planner and lived with great drive and motivation. I still have the same drive, but hopefully with less intensity toward work and my committments and more intensity toward enjoying life more and living each day to the fullest!!
Again, in closing, I love you all and appreciate your support. I will keep you posted as major things occur in my life through the next phase of recovery.
Thank you to everyone who is continuing to read my blog and follow me through my journey!! Life got a little crazy going to radiation everyday and battling the side effects, so... it has been a little while since my last entry. The entire process was different to say the least. About 2-3 weeks into the treatment, my breast became very itchy and red. I tried any cream my doctor recommended for finally got some relief with a prescription pill by mouth and 2% hydrocortisone cream. I did not have any skin breakdown, but just tenderness, like a sunburn and the itching!! There were a couple of delays with my treatment due to a problem with the machine, but it only took a couple of days for the repair. I was not complaining because it gave my skin time to heal.
Since my last entry I have gotten a clean bill of health from my OBGYN. I have also graduated from radiation. I do have to have a mammogram to establish a baseline for post-treatment in about 2 months and also in about 2 weeks I will begin taking the Tamoxifen everyday. The only thing that I have left to do for my cancer is to have my port-a-cathe removed. This should happen this week, YEAH!!!. I may actually feel like a person again instead of a patient.
The odd thing about my current life is my emotional status. Now that treatment has ended, I have had time to reflect on my life and what just happened to me. I do not think reality sat in until just recently. I have cried a lot lately and am currently taking some time from work to take care of myself and treat myself to some time off. Although I would like to claim this idea as my own, it was actually recommended by my surgeon who stated that I needed time to heal and to "mourn" the loss of this period of my life. I guess it really has not been a loss, but a learning experience; however, when I think about things more, it does feel like a loss at times because I do feel cheated of a healthy life. I also feel like having cancer forced me into being a prisoner of my own body and medical care. For me, this has been the hardest of all and I fought it to the end. So now, my body and mind are telling me that it is time to rest a little and give myself a break, physicall and emotionally. I am also making attempts to lessen my work load and taking up a hobby. I have recently began to enjoy photography more and more and recently won a photography contest and was also published in a photography book. Throughout my life, I have always been a planner and lived with great drive and motivation. I still have the same drive, but hopefully with less intensity toward work and my committments and more intensity toward enjoying life more and living each day to the fullest!!
Again, in closing, I love you all and appreciate your support. I will keep you posted as major things occur in my life through the next phase of recovery.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Ch. 21 - Radiation Continues
Ch. 21 - Radiation Continues
It has been a while since my last entry, so I thought I would give an update. I am continuing with my radiation treatments everyday Monday throught Friday at 2:45 pm. So far I have experienced some redness and sensitivity on my right breast and axilla, but nothing too alarming. The sween cream helps and I wear loose clothing. I see Dr. Grace every Tuesday for a quick visit. So far, she has not noticed any problems with treatment. Since my last entry, my husband and I have celebrated an anniversary, his birthday, and my birthday. March is always a big celebration month. I am now 35 years old and this was a special birthday for me. When facing such a challenge of cancer, I was very grateful to get to celebrate another year of life. One birthday present I received was my PERIOD!!! Just when I was embracing menopause, her comes my cycle. It only lasted for 1 day, so I do not know what the future holds, but maybe I am avoiding menopause. I gues I will just have to wait and see:-) But for know thanks again for the suport and I will continue to keep you updated.
It has been a while since my last entry, so I thought I would give an update. I am continuing with my radiation treatments everyday Monday throught Friday at 2:45 pm. So far I have experienced some redness and sensitivity on my right breast and axilla, but nothing too alarming. The sween cream helps and I wear loose clothing. I see Dr. Grace every Tuesday for a quick visit. So far, she has not noticed any problems with treatment. Since my last entry, my husband and I have celebrated an anniversary, his birthday, and my birthday. March is always a big celebration month. I am now 35 years old and this was a special birthday for me. When facing such a challenge of cancer, I was very grateful to get to celebrate another year of life. One birthday present I received was my PERIOD!!! Just when I was embracing menopause, her comes my cycle. It only lasted for 1 day, so I do not know what the future holds, but maybe I am avoiding menopause. I gues I will just have to wait and see:-) But for know thanks again for the suport and I will continue to keep you updated.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Ch. 20 - And Radiation Begins...Finally
Ch. 20 - And Radiation Begins...Finally
On 2/12/2008 I went to my appointment with Dr. Grace and Dr. Mak for the radiation simulation appointment. After everyone brainstormed and looked at many x-ray films taken that day, they decided that they would use "old school" radiation for my treatment. I do not understand it all, but I do know that today, radiation is called SAD and they are going to do SDD or SSD (something like that) with my treatment. In my case, my using the different setup, it changes the radiation field a bit so that my left breast will not receive any radiation and it minimizes lung exposure as compared to the other type of setup. So... everything went well. The side effects are the same and I did not have to get any other tattoos!!!
I returned the next day to finalize the setup and actually received my first radiation treatment on that Thursday, 2/14/2008, Valentine's day. It was over in about 5-10 minutes. I think it takes me longer to change in to the hospital gown than it does to receive my treatment. And...oddly enough, it felt the same and when they take x-rays. I did not feel a thing. I went back on Friday and received my second treatment. It came and went just as easy. YEAH!!! Now I can enjoy my weekend and plan for my next week of treatments. I go to the cancer center everyday at 2:45 pm for my treatments. I am a good patient and apply the sween cream everyday, twice daily, to help prevent redness and skin breakdown. So far, so good.
Thanks again for all of your support. I will continue to keep you posted. I did take some photos of my last chemotherapy treatment back in January. My hair right now is growing back, but I do not have too much more that what you see in the photos below.
On 2/12/2008 I went to my appointment with Dr. Grace and Dr. Mak for the radiation simulation appointment. After everyone brainstormed and looked at many x-ray films taken that day, they decided that they would use "old school" radiation for my treatment. I do not understand it all, but I do know that today, radiation is called SAD and they are going to do SDD or SSD (something like that) with my treatment. In my case, my using the different setup, it changes the radiation field a bit so that my left breast will not receive any radiation and it minimizes lung exposure as compared to the other type of setup. So... everything went well. The side effects are the same and I did not have to get any other tattoos!!!
I returned the next day to finalize the setup and actually received my first radiation treatment on that Thursday, 2/14/2008, Valentine's day. It was over in about 5-10 minutes. I think it takes me longer to change in to the hospital gown than it does to receive my treatment. And...oddly enough, it felt the same and when they take x-rays. I did not feel a thing. I went back on Friday and received my second treatment. It came and went just as easy. YEAH!!! Now I can enjoy my weekend and plan for my next week of treatments. I go to the cancer center everyday at 2:45 pm for my treatments. I am a good patient and apply the sween cream everyday, twice daily, to help prevent redness and skin breakdown. So far, so good.
Thanks again for all of your support. I will continue to keep you posted. I did take some photos of my last chemotherapy treatment back in January. My hair right now is growing back, but I do not have too much more that what you see in the photos below.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Ch. 19 - And Radiation Begins (Sort of)
Ch. 19 - And Radiation Begins (Sort of)
After a break for a couple of weeks, I had an appointment with Dr. Grace, the radiation oncologist on 1/22/2008. She explained the risks and benefits of radiation in regards to breast cancer s/p lumpectomy as well as what to expect. She informed me of the side effects which include skin dryness, redness, peeling, raw skin, itching, soreness, skin darkening, and fatigue for radiation of the breast area. She also reminded of my recommended treatment regimen of 33 treatments which totals 6 weeks. New to me was that there is a 3 step process in order to begin radiation. First, a CT scan is needed to locate the exact area that needs radiating (they look for the area in the breast that contains the scar tissue remaining from the lumpectomy and the removal of my 2 lymph nodes. Second, from the CT results, x-rays will be performed to determine the right set up for the radiation, i.e. the right angle of the beams in order to minimize radiation exposure to non-affected areas and to maximize the radiation to the focus area. At this time, small blue "dot" tattoos will be made for reference points on the skin in order to ensure the same exact set up each and every time for radiation. And thirdly, the initial radiation visit once step #1 and step #2 are completed. Also at this visit, she prescribed me sween cream to apply to the radiated area daily, every day after treatment to minimize skin dryness. She also reminded me to only wear the non-metalic deoderant on radiation days and to not wear a bra during this time. WHAT!!! NO BRA!! This would not be that big of a problem, but I am one of the nippiest people I know. I have even been known to have to wear bandaids over my nipples just to keep them in check so that I do not have my headlights poking through my bra. But oh well, I guess this will just be one rule (recommendation) that I will try to break, as long as my skin can tolerate the rubbing of the bra. So, we will have to wait and see on that one.
Aside from battling my breast cancer during this time, I also had a follow-up appointment with the dermatologist regarding the skin cancer. On 1/30/2008 I went to this appointment. I was scheduled for a skin check to see if there were any other areas of concern. At this point I did show another "cyst type" place to the left of my nose. He stated that it only looked like a cyst, but I did explain to him that to me it looked the same as the other one did that turned out to be cancer. So, for opening my big mouth he decided to take a biopsy of this one too!! After the biopsy he also looked at a couple of other spots that I showed him. One was a pathy red area on my left thigh that he labeled at eczema. The other was a different looking patchy area on the right lateral thigh, it looked more like ringworm. He stated not to worry, that it was only dermatitis. The tretment for both problems was just to keep the skin hydrated with lotion. He did state that if the problem persisted to inform my primary care physician. As far as the biopsy, I have to wait one week for the results. At this point I have become a waiting professional, not that I enjoy it, just that it seems to come with the diagnosis of cancer.
On Friday, Dr. Grace's office called me to schedule my next radiation visit, the x-ray visit. So on Monday, 2/4/2008, I had my appointment at the cancer center at 11:40 am. This visit was with Dr. Grace and the radiation technologist, Ken. This visit seemed to take forever, 2 hours to be exact. So many x-rays were taken at different angles in order to find the right formula for my radiation treatment. The goal, as it was explained to me was to minimize lung and left breast exposure and to maximize right breast (the area of the excision) as well as the lymph node excision area as well. This was proving to be quite difficult due to the location of my cancer was well as my perky (breast implanted) left breast. Many different ideas were tossed around, taping the left breast out of the way, rolling more onto my side, etc. After they took all the needed x-rays, the radiation technologist then tatooed four reference point on me (one of them was on the outer margin of my nipple...OUCH!!! So with this visit behind me, radiation should begin tomorrow, 2/5/2008.
Well 2/5/2008 rolled around and I was excited to start this chapter. I got dressed in the hospital gown, was escorted to the radiation table, and was set up for "treatment". Dr. Grace was present as well as Ken. They discussed the field problem and then stated "hold still while we take a picture". This happened twice and then Ken told me that I was done for the day. Was that it?? How easy? This simple procedure made me very happy. Radiation was going to be so easy compared to chemotherapy. After leaving I called my husband and my mom to let them know how everything went. When asked how it felt, I simply stated it felt like they took an x-ray, this was the best way I knew to describe it. Everyone was happy and thankful that this part seemed to be like easy street!!
The next day, the same thing, or so I thought. When I arrived Ken showed me my x-rays and explained to me that the beam was it appears on the film stills slightly crosses the left breast and also exposes too much lung. He stated that Dr. Grace want him to take more x-rays in a slightly different set-up to attempt to minimize this exposure. As I was getting on the table, it hit me. So... I questioned Ken on exactly what he was doing. He repeated what he had told me earlier and my return question to him was, so "so far I have not stated radiation yet, only x-rays?". His answer was yes. NO WONDER IT SEEMED SO EASY, LIKE GETTING AN X-RAY!! What a diappointment. Radiation had not begun, I am still on step #2. AAAHHHHHHH! On a positive note, I do want the treatment to be given correctly, but I am also so ready to be finished with the whole process as well. The funny thing is... I had already marked my calender with all 33 treatments which gave me an ending date of March 20, 2008 (written in with a smiley face). I then had to call my husband and mom to let them know the difficult, but also very comical news.
So, back to the cancer center I go on Thursday the 7th scheduled at 12:00 noon for one more attempt.
Today is the 7th and I woke up early this morning, preparing for work and my radiation treatment, hopefully. I put on my non-metalic deoderant and did not apply any sween cream as instructed by Dr. Grace for the mornings of treatment in order to reduce burning. I was all ready, rushing around at work when the doctor called me. She stated that she still did not like the way the films looked and that she needed to cancel today's visit and reschedule for next Tuesday. At this visit she will be present as well as another radiation oncologist, Dr. Mak, and Ken to gather further films and brainstorm about proper positioning for the radiation treatments, one that she would be happy with; so again, I wait.
So while I am waiting, I will fill you in one some of the other aspects of my life. I am currently going through chemotherapy induced menopause. I have not had a period since 12/24/2008. As soon as I was at least a week late with my period, I went to my primary doctor and told her my situation. She stated that she was confident it was from the chemo, but she did order a pregnancy test just to make sure I was not pregnant. I think with the IUD, the chances are less than 2%, but for me this is a big percentage since I cannot get pregnant during this time and would probably be advised to terminate the pregnancy. To my advantage, the pregnancy test was negative... YEAH!!! But, with this news comes the confirmation that my hot flashes are probably not related to the chemo, but more related to the beginning stages of menopause, at 34, YIKES!! And, since my tumor is estrogen receptor positive, I cannot take estrogen replacement therapy to help with the flashes. The only thing she could advise me to do was to eat yams, a natural source of estrogen that will not have any adverse side effects for someone in my condition. So, if I did not like yams before, I do now :-)
Also during this time I received my biopsy results for my face, negative for cancer. YEAH!!!! And, I became a "grandmother". My dog, Scruffy, had 5 puppies on 1/31/2008. I helped with part of the birth which was amazing. She gave birth to 5 healthy puppies, 3 male and 2 female. Here are some photos!!!!
Thanks again for all of your prayers and support. I plan to update you guys again soon after my next radiation visit on Tuesday, the 12th.
After a break for a couple of weeks, I had an appointment with Dr. Grace, the radiation oncologist on 1/22/2008. She explained the risks and benefits of radiation in regards to breast cancer s/p lumpectomy as well as what to expect. She informed me of the side effects which include skin dryness, redness, peeling, raw skin, itching, soreness, skin darkening, and fatigue for radiation of the breast area. She also reminded of my recommended treatment regimen of 33 treatments which totals 6 weeks. New to me was that there is a 3 step process in order to begin radiation. First, a CT scan is needed to locate the exact area that needs radiating (they look for the area in the breast that contains the scar tissue remaining from the lumpectomy and the removal of my 2 lymph nodes. Second, from the CT results, x-rays will be performed to determine the right set up for the radiation, i.e. the right angle of the beams in order to minimize radiation exposure to non-affected areas and to maximize the radiation to the focus area. At this time, small blue "dot" tattoos will be made for reference points on the skin in order to ensure the same exact set up each and every time for radiation. And thirdly, the initial radiation visit once step #1 and step #2 are completed. Also at this visit, she prescribed me sween cream to apply to the radiated area daily, every day after treatment to minimize skin dryness. She also reminded me to only wear the non-metalic deoderant on radiation days and to not wear a bra during this time. WHAT!!! NO BRA!! This would not be that big of a problem, but I am one of the nippiest people I know. I have even been known to have to wear bandaids over my nipples just to keep them in check so that I do not have my headlights poking through my bra. But oh well, I guess this will just be one rule (recommendation) that I will try to break, as long as my skin can tolerate the rubbing of the bra. So, we will have to wait and see on that one.
Aside from battling my breast cancer during this time, I also had a follow-up appointment with the dermatologist regarding the skin cancer. On 1/30/2008 I went to this appointment. I was scheduled for a skin check to see if there were any other areas of concern. At this point I did show another "cyst type" place to the left of my nose. He stated that it only looked like a cyst, but I did explain to him that to me it looked the same as the other one did that turned out to be cancer. So, for opening my big mouth he decided to take a biopsy of this one too!! After the biopsy he also looked at a couple of other spots that I showed him. One was a pathy red area on my left thigh that he labeled at eczema. The other was a different looking patchy area on the right lateral thigh, it looked more like ringworm. He stated not to worry, that it was only dermatitis. The tretment for both problems was just to keep the skin hydrated with lotion. He did state that if the problem persisted to inform my primary care physician. As far as the biopsy, I have to wait one week for the results. At this point I have become a waiting professional, not that I enjoy it, just that it seems to come with the diagnosis of cancer.
On Friday, Dr. Grace's office called me to schedule my next radiation visit, the x-ray visit. So on Monday, 2/4/2008, I had my appointment at the cancer center at 11:40 am. This visit was with Dr. Grace and the radiation technologist, Ken. This visit seemed to take forever, 2 hours to be exact. So many x-rays were taken at different angles in order to find the right formula for my radiation treatment. The goal, as it was explained to me was to minimize lung and left breast exposure and to maximize right breast (the area of the excision) as well as the lymph node excision area as well. This was proving to be quite difficult due to the location of my cancer was well as my perky (breast implanted) left breast. Many different ideas were tossed around, taping the left breast out of the way, rolling more onto my side, etc. After they took all the needed x-rays, the radiation technologist then tatooed four reference point on me (one of them was on the outer margin of my nipple...OUCH!!! So with this visit behind me, radiation should begin tomorrow, 2/5/2008.
Well 2/5/2008 rolled around and I was excited to start this chapter. I got dressed in the hospital gown, was escorted to the radiation table, and was set up for "treatment". Dr. Grace was present as well as Ken. They discussed the field problem and then stated "hold still while we take a picture". This happened twice and then Ken told me that I was done for the day. Was that it?? How easy? This simple procedure made me very happy. Radiation was going to be so easy compared to chemotherapy. After leaving I called my husband and my mom to let them know how everything went. When asked how it felt, I simply stated it felt like they took an x-ray, this was the best way I knew to describe it. Everyone was happy and thankful that this part seemed to be like easy street!!
The next day, the same thing, or so I thought. When I arrived Ken showed me my x-rays and explained to me that the beam was it appears on the film stills slightly crosses the left breast and also exposes too much lung. He stated that Dr. Grace want him to take more x-rays in a slightly different set-up to attempt to minimize this exposure. As I was getting on the table, it hit me. So... I questioned Ken on exactly what he was doing. He repeated what he had told me earlier and my return question to him was, so "so far I have not stated radiation yet, only x-rays?". His answer was yes. NO WONDER IT SEEMED SO EASY, LIKE GETTING AN X-RAY!! What a diappointment. Radiation had not begun, I am still on step #2. AAAHHHHHHH! On a positive note, I do want the treatment to be given correctly, but I am also so ready to be finished with the whole process as well. The funny thing is... I had already marked my calender with all 33 treatments which gave me an ending date of March 20, 2008 (written in with a smiley face). I then had to call my husband and mom to let them know the difficult, but also very comical news.
So, back to the cancer center I go on Thursday the 7th scheduled at 12:00 noon for one more attempt.
Today is the 7th and I woke up early this morning, preparing for work and my radiation treatment, hopefully. I put on my non-metalic deoderant and did not apply any sween cream as instructed by Dr. Grace for the mornings of treatment in order to reduce burning. I was all ready, rushing around at work when the doctor called me. She stated that she still did not like the way the films looked and that she needed to cancel today's visit and reschedule for next Tuesday. At this visit she will be present as well as another radiation oncologist, Dr. Mak, and Ken to gather further films and brainstorm about proper positioning for the radiation treatments, one that she would be happy with; so again, I wait.
So while I am waiting, I will fill you in one some of the other aspects of my life. I am currently going through chemotherapy induced menopause. I have not had a period since 12/24/2008. As soon as I was at least a week late with my period, I went to my primary doctor and told her my situation. She stated that she was confident it was from the chemo, but she did order a pregnancy test just to make sure I was not pregnant. I think with the IUD, the chances are less than 2%, but for me this is a big percentage since I cannot get pregnant during this time and would probably be advised to terminate the pregnancy. To my advantage, the pregnancy test was negative... YEAH!!! But, with this news comes the confirmation that my hot flashes are probably not related to the chemo, but more related to the beginning stages of menopause, at 34, YIKES!! And, since my tumor is estrogen receptor positive, I cannot take estrogen replacement therapy to help with the flashes. The only thing she could advise me to do was to eat yams, a natural source of estrogen that will not have any adverse side effects for someone in my condition. So, if I did not like yams before, I do now :-)
Also during this time I received my biopsy results for my face, negative for cancer. YEAH!!!! And, I became a "grandmother". My dog, Scruffy, had 5 puppies on 1/31/2008. I helped with part of the birth which was amazing. She gave birth to 5 healthy puppies, 3 male and 2 female. Here are some photos!!!!
Thanks again for all of your prayers and support. I plan to update you guys again soon after my next radiation visit on Tuesday, the 12th.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Ch. 18 - The Last Chemotherapy
Ch. 18 - The Last Chemotherapy
Well, the moment finally arrived, the last chemotherapy treatment... YEAH!!! I had my last chemo on Tuesday, January 8th at 10:00 am. The treatment went as planned, the pharmacy was just a little late getting my medications down to the infusion center. After treatment, I was instructed to continue to follow-up with Dr. Zhang and Dr. Grace. Although this was a big event, it did not go without its own unique set of side effects. Over the weekend I came down with a sore throat and cold as well as my normal nausea and fatigue. Out of a 24 hour day, I think I slept 20 of them on Saturday and Sunday. I was surprised that I got sick since I was continuing the injections for my immune system for 3 days after chemo. But anyway, come Monday, I returned to work as normal; it seemed like I needed to do something just to keep me out of the bed!
Besides the cold, I have noticed that on my right thigh I have some kind of redness that does not itch, but it just won't go away. I showed it to my doctor and he said that it looks like some sort of dermatitis. He encouraged me to show it to the dermatologist when I go at the end of the month.
So for now, my plan is continue recovering from the last chemo and follow-up with my radiation oncologist in 2 weeks in order to begin radiation. As for my porta cath, Dr. Zhang encouraged me to keep it in for 1-2 years unless it begins to bother me. He said just in case of a relapse or reoccurance, I will already have the port in the instance I would need more chemo. I just have to have the port flushed by the infusion nurse once a month so that it does not get clogged. That part seems pretty easy. I do have to return to Dr. Zhang in March in order to start the Tamoxifen and for follow-up blood work.
Ohhhh! Good news about my BRCA test, it was negative. So... my 8 little frozen babies are in the clear of carrying the breast cancer gene. At least that is one less thing that we have to worry about at this point. IT IS GREAT NEWS!!!
I will continue to keep you posted on any new events as they occur. Thanks again for all of your support!!
Well, the moment finally arrived, the last chemotherapy treatment... YEAH!!! I had my last chemo on Tuesday, January 8th at 10:00 am. The treatment went as planned, the pharmacy was just a little late getting my medications down to the infusion center. After treatment, I was instructed to continue to follow-up with Dr. Zhang and Dr. Grace. Although this was a big event, it did not go without its own unique set of side effects. Over the weekend I came down with a sore throat and cold as well as my normal nausea and fatigue. Out of a 24 hour day, I think I slept 20 of them on Saturday and Sunday. I was surprised that I got sick since I was continuing the injections for my immune system for 3 days after chemo. But anyway, come Monday, I returned to work as normal; it seemed like I needed to do something just to keep me out of the bed!
Besides the cold, I have noticed that on my right thigh I have some kind of redness that does not itch, but it just won't go away. I showed it to my doctor and he said that it looks like some sort of dermatitis. He encouraged me to show it to the dermatologist when I go at the end of the month.
So for now, my plan is continue recovering from the last chemo and follow-up with my radiation oncologist in 2 weeks in order to begin radiation. As for my porta cath, Dr. Zhang encouraged me to keep it in for 1-2 years unless it begins to bother me. He said just in case of a relapse or reoccurance, I will already have the port in the instance I would need more chemo. I just have to have the port flushed by the infusion nurse once a month so that it does not get clogged. That part seems pretty easy. I do have to return to Dr. Zhang in March in order to start the Tamoxifen and for follow-up blood work.
Ohhhh! Good news about my BRCA test, it was negative. So... my 8 little frozen babies are in the clear of carrying the breast cancer gene. At least that is one less thing that we have to worry about at this point. IT IS GREAT NEWS!!!
I will continue to keep you posted on any new events as they occur. Thanks again for all of your support!!
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