The meeting with the oncologist went really well. Pieces of the cancer that was discovered are now on their way to a path lab in California to test for some 21 genetic markers that will determine the roadmap for my customized treatment plan.
That will take about two weeks and the pathology report ought to be back when I return to the oncologist in two weeks. He seemed more concerned about the Her2/new levels than the estrogen. The estrogen levels can be managed with a pill I’d take every day for five years.
The Her2/neu is another stop on the Hitchhiker’s Guide to Chemotherapy.
I now feel optimistic about the whole ordeal. I got a 99% on the oxygen utilization level. That’s incredible for someone who used to smoke. I will admit that I quit some 25 years ago. But still, there apparently was no long-term damage evident at this point. And the chest x-ray I had prior to surgery came back clear.
So the onocologist looked at my family history — sister who died from lung cancer, brother who died from lung cancer. The first question he asked was, “Do you have kids who smoke?” To which we said, “Yes.” He just shook his head.
Not that doctors can know such things for certain but he said he thought he could give me twenty more years. I figure that will get me to 87. I’ll take it. Then I’ll be on my own and I’ll tread lightly and whistle past the graveyard.
In the meantime, I picked up a big bag of craft filler at Wal-Mart. I’m going to start making soft curved pillows for people who have had surgery. The pillow I got from the hospital has been a lifesaver for my sleep comfort.
Much love and blessings and prayers to all you fellow travelers,
Jane Reinheimer
“Hitchhiker’s Guide to Chemotherapy”
LOL! OK, I’m so stealing that! (yep, there are days I do feel like the potted petunia: “Oh no, not again.” )
Ain’t it great to know more than you did? I know my mood did a complete 180 after my onc. visit. I’m so happy for you! You guys can do this! Rally your troops, ‘round up your posse.
You now have a plan for war, you know the enemy. Get ready to fight like a girl! : )
Yet another wait will be tough, but if it helps with your treatment, so be it. It’s like waiting for Christmas, ain’t it?
I used to smoke, too and I’ve been running about 98 to 97 on the oxy utilization. But humungous lungs runs in the family-and boy howdy, do I have ‘em.
I was amazed by the test results I got back. The PET, the bone density, blood work etc. It showed a gal, who other than having a cancerous mass in her boob the size of Brooklyn, was stout as an ox, LOL.
Weird how we have to get sick as a dog to find out just how healthy we really are!!
That’s great that you want to give back with making the pillows. God bless ya, hon! Our cancer center has some gals who knit and crochet these beautiful, warm shawl/afghans for us girls. I got one recently. I imagine they have a pillow squad as well, but since I haven’t had my surgery yet, I don’t know.
My daughter and I have come up with a ‘pink beret’ idea. Berets are ridiculously easy to sew and make and they are my personal choice over wigs or scarves. We’re gonna whip up a bunch and the proceeds will go to Relay for Life.
Since this is lookin’ to be a “good chemo day” for me, I’m doing a triumphant Happy Dance for the both of you right now!