Yep. . the thing I have most wanted not to hear, I heard today and that is that the cancer is back and I need to go back into chemotherapy in a few weeks (after Christmas). At some level this is worse news that the initial diagnosis because you know you can withstand anything once, but the second time (second line they call it) is really disturbing. Makes one wonder why chemo didn't work the first time plus other questions like how can I go from "disease" free to diseased in a matter of weeks. The choices I face are 4 different strategies of chemo and I feel like I am deciding something I have very little knowledge of, but it is my life so I will do the research and figure all this out, plus meet with the new Mayo surgeon next week to discuss surgical options as well. Maybe there is a less invasive shake and bake.
Anyway, to all your readers of my blog, thanks for being there! All for tonight. As time goes by I get better at this.
Peggy, I just checked in and I’m so sorry to hear all of this. So, so, sorry. I have been thinking about you and I really hoped the PET scan would have better results. I know you and Patrick must feel overwhelmed but try to remember that you have a lot of friends and family who are here for you . . . and you can do this! It sounds like even though these results are confusing (disease free vs. disease, etc) you have a really good team of doctors who can help you come up with a plan to move forward. I know you are in good hands and whatever the future brings, more chemo or surgery or whatever, you are ready for it. I want to say, too, that I am really glad that lately you and Patrick have had the opportunity to get back to “regular” life in Asheville and focus on having time together, keeping busy with friends and CFA, and having fun, rather than worrying about cancer. I think that was very positive for both of you and I, for one, absolutely loved seeing you happy!!!! As hard as it may be right now, please try to take everything a day at a time and remember that you are THE strongest person . . . you can do this . . . and we are all here for you. Try to take care of yourselves and do your best to get lots of rest/sleep before your appointment with the new Mayo surgeon. And let us know when you are meeting with her/him, too, ok? I’m thinking about you : ) Michelle P.S. And tell Reese and Allie to give you lots of love . . . after all, they used to be “therapy dogs” at Mission . . . right?!?
ReplyDeleteAs always you are in our prayers.
ReplyDeleteThanks to both of you for being there! Your comments are the best medicine in the world. It is going to be a long journey into this dark night and having friends' support is wonderful. Patrick and I are thinking that we just have to "swat 'er down": each time the cancer reappears but at some point the side effects will be overwhelming and we will stop chemo. That could take a year or up to seven years. Of course, I am opting for seven! Thanks again for your support. It is great!
ReplyDeletePat & I are so sorry. We will be praying for you big time. Stay strong and know that God has a plan. Love, B&P.
ReplyDeleteHi again . . . just have to say that knowing you it will be 7 years!! or 17!! or maybe even 27?!? i know that cancer is monstrous and it can come back BUT i also believe that positive thinking does SO much, too. i love how you are always making more travel plans and looking forward to your next trips and everything . . . so keep doing it! and if you started yoga, keep doing it, too. i always thought yoga was just about silly stretches but we've been going to a yoga class at the gym off and on for about two years. it's wonderful (it's for beginners and it is all ages) and it helps so much--physically and mentally/emotionally. i think you were looking for a dvd but if there are classes in your area you might want to give it a try. stay positive and try to focus on other things the next few days. maybe it's time to go back to Barnes and Noble? (hope that made you smile). i'll be thinking about you two--michelle :)
ReplyDeletePat & I are so sorry. We will be praying for you big time. Stay strong and know that God has a plan. Love, B&P.
ReplyDeleteArgh, Peggy, I am so sorry. I am praying for good outcomes and fewer side effects from this next round! Can you pls send your Florida address to me (email is fine). Thanks!
ReplyDeleteGod bless-
Julie
Thank you for taking the time to update your blog, especially during this difficult news. We pray for God's guidance and strength as you navigate the options and possibilites. We are thinking of you daily.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Laura, Eric and the kids