On Tuesday and Wednesday of this week my husband once again took off work to bring me to a multitude of appointments. Within these appointments I was able to get one of the three drains out, which is a plus. They are the most annoying part of this process so far. So I guess I shouldn't be complaining. Hopefully on Monday I will be able to get the other two drains out. We'll see. Anyway, I was given too options for chemo. The first being a treatment every three weeks for only four sessions, or a more aggressive treatment every other week for 8 weeks. The latter the doctor thought would be too aggressive given the intense side effects for my type of cancer and the fact that it has not gone into my lymph nodes. The problem with my situation is that there is really NO research out there for younger (under 40) women with breast cancer. The average age of breast cancer is 61. Therefore alot of what they are recommending is based on textbook, if that makes sense. So...I or we, as we have been saying, chose the first option which I will begin in 2 or 3 weeks as soon as all my wounds have healed. So I guess it is time to go wig shopping. Maybe get several different haircuts until I have to wear the wigs. I guess if I was ever going to experiment with my hair, now is the time. I don't know... just a random thought.
I also began the genetic counseling program, where they are testing my blood to see if it is indeed tied to genetics. If so, I can hopefully help to get some info for my family. Interesting point...if you have breast cancer in your family then sibblings should begin getting screenings every 6 months at age 25. In my case they recommend subtracting 10 years from diagnosed age (29) and that is when sibblings should start getting screening. Therefore my peeps should have started at 19!
By the way, I had a great day today with my boys, now that they are healthy. We took a walk, had a picnic (in the garage because of the wind), and just hung out! Thank you Max and Luke. I love you.
Alison,
ReplyDeleteWow you are amazing! Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers daily. There are so many people who all feel the same! Fight hard and let us help in any possible way we can!
Fran
Hi Ali
ReplyDeleteIt's good you have some options for you plan. I was on every 3 weeks and I responded well with that protocol. life in between treatments went on, I was able to due Daycare and proceed on without taking any time off other then chemo days, I did take it easy after the last, daycare child left,but I didn't have any one but Big Lou to care for. I was frightened of Chemo,because I had never felt sick before the diagnosis. I have to say surprisingly it was pretty painless, other than a little fatigue it was do able. With the wonderful support of your awesome husband and family you too will get thru this.
Since I am starting to now get my hair back I have a lot of great hats available.
We are so blessed to live in a country to have the most advanced and gifted medical professionals as our resources. Keep the faith...Peace and God Bless...Lori G.
Looking forward to seeing the many haircuts you will try. I am sure whatever you do will be fantastic. Thinking of you lots!!!
ReplyDeleteJodi