Oncologist Visit – 2/4/11

I visited the oncologist today.   For those who just want the facts, :-) here they are: 

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           My port will be “installed” early in the morning on February 10. 

      My first chemo treatment will be on the 15^th.  I will receive two drugs.

     The “rounds” will be every 3 weeks with one drug given every week.

      I will have 6 rounds.

Further details are that the oncologist reviewed with us the happenings since my last visit.  He had the report from the Dr. at Wash U as well as the new and “improved” pathology report following my surgery.  Based on all the new information, his analysis was that my cancer stage is 1A – the lowest possible.  That is an actual, visible miracle.  Thank you again, Lord!  The type of tumor continues to be the “issue”.  Even though it was “caught” before it spread, because it was so virulent, the risk of reoccurrence is very high.  Therefore, he still recommends chemo – and he recommends 6 treatments as opposed to the possible 3-treatment option.

I have spent the last 2 weeks recuperating from surgery on January 19^th.  An interesting process, this recovering from major abdominal surgery!  I had thought it would be a slow, continuous improvement process.  Maybe that’s how it’s supposed to be, but mine isn’t.  It’s one good day, one or more not-so-good days, then a good day, etc.  I’m looking forward to the good days becoming the most consistent part of the process!  I’m thinking I’m almost there!  I don’t see the surgeon for 2 more weeks so I know that means she is expecting this progression to continue for a minimum of 2 more weeks.  I know how important it is to follow her instructions so I’m doing my best.  I'm pretty sure I did “overdo” it and that may be why I’ve had several not-so-good days.  I had the feeling that I could “walk this out” of my system.  Wrong!  That doesn’t work!  Right now I’m restricting my walking to small intervals rather than walking 20 minutes 3x a day!!  The latter schedule doesn’t lend itself to a good day!

Other things I have learned are:  1) Never take any bodily function for granted, 2)  Intestines hold a grudge if someone bothers them, 3) Size L pants are the right size for maximum comfort. :-(

          

Thanks to you again (still) for your prayers and concern.  I have to admit I’m very apprehensive about the first chemo treatment.  Once I know how it will affect me, I feel like I can deal with it (maybe, probably!).  The “unknown” is disconcerting to me.  This is another chance for God to show me His grace and His strength – in my weakness.  I find myself trying to control the situation at this juncture, and it doesn’t work!  I’m not in control – and that’s a good thing!  So, I would appreciate your prayers for my peace of mind and prayer for minimal side effects from the chemo.  James 4:2 says, “You do not have, because you do not ask.” So I’m asking for these two things.

With the one drug being administered weekly, they say my hair won’t fall out all at once, but will thin and eventually fall out.  So, that should be an interesting process.  I’m scheduled to get my wig styled and pick it up on the 16^th.  I’m hoping I will feel like doing that the day after my first chemo treatment.  The good news is that my hairstylist has offered to go with me to pick up the wig!  I was so excited when she volunteered to go!  She can help make sure I look like I'm supposed to! 

This journey is feeling a bit lengthy and it really hasn’t started.  I’m finding that I’m not very patient!  That is probably a virtue I will learn to cultivate during these next few weeks.  I hope I can do it gracefully!  I know I can – if I lean on the Lord and cling to His promises for strength and courage.  My prayer is I Chronicles 28:20, “May I be strong and courageous and act.  May I not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God is with me.  He will not fail me or forsake me.”