Episode 6 - A Day in the Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer


Happy first week of December! I hope you’re making plans for a lovely holiday this year. I am, though I’m feeling a little like Alice talking to the Queen of Hearts, when she tells her, “My dear, here we must run as fast as we can, just to stay in place. And if you wish to go anywhere you must run twice as fast as that.” Does that resonate? Yes, well. Lots to do, lots to plan, and no time for feeling a little low energy.


A little low energy? Ok, ok, a lot of low energy this weekend. But, it was to be expected. Friday, I went to the nuclear medicine clinic, and cancer center for scans (three), blood draws, a meeting with my oncologist, and finally, had an IV drip set up with an infusion of Zometa, to strengthen my bones. Long day. 


In the last three years, I’ve had a Zometa infusion every three months, so I should be used to the process, and yet, each and every time I forget about the side effects. Every fucking time. They are “flu-like symptoms for several days.” And last night I did it again - forgot to expect it, and then when I got a headache, scratchy throat, body aches, and a little cough, began to panic that I’d contracted Covid, or something. Honestly, I make myself laugh. So! I’m a little wan this weekend, but NOT sick. And by tomorrow should be feeling tons better. And that’s good, as I need to keep a positive attitude about what is coming down the pike, as it were.


Friday’s scans showed great stability - no new lesions, no growth in the current ones, though the original tumor has not decreased in size, as expected. Because the overall results of all the scans, and blood work are so positive, my oncologist, and a surgeon she often partners with, have determined I may benefit greatly from having a lumpectomy to remove that breast tumor, altogether. Surprise!


I go in December 20 for yet another MRI - this one specific to that tumor - to determine exactly what will happen next.  Both my oncologist, and the surgeon believe the lumpectomy is a good plan, and will likely take place just after the New Year. I’m…stressed.


I like the idea VERY much of getting that original tumor out, out, out, but still find myself panicky, and unsettled. This has probably more to do with the earlier stated low energy, and lingering side effects of the Zometa, than anything else. I expect to have regained my composure, and ready to embrace the unknown by tomorrow. Wish me luck!


I will keep you posted.







Comments

  1. AnonymousDecember 16, 2023 at 11:45 AM

    Hey Parker!
    I'll keep my prayers going for you. Love to you and Merry Holidays!

    ReplyDelete

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