So far as my prognosis related to the cancer - it couldn't be better. Just have to do the seven weeks of radiation. The medical oncologist is not recommending chemo based on my particular situation. He sees a five year regimen of drug therapy following the radiation. His statistics based on a 10 year survival rate and my personal statistics gives me really good odds. All went well with the appointment.
However: Out of the fryin' and and into the fire. Seems to be my story. Late in the day after my appointment (above) I began having hard pain - the first during this whole situation. Shortly after I felt that the top I was wearing was wet and sticky. Sparing the details, enough fluid built up to open part of the incision from the second surgery and pour out. Pour is the key word here. Harry was able to contact the surgeon's office and we were met there about 20 minutes later. They extracted even more fluid, wicked the site, patched me up, and prescribed more antibiotics. Harry opted to be instructed on how to change the dressings and wick over the weekend rather than have home health care come to our house. I'll be back in the surgeon's office on Monday morning to evaluate progress.
This wonderful man who I'm privileged to share my life with has gone above and beyond to take care of me. He makes sure I have home cooked meals, keeps the house going, never lets me go very long without checking to be sure I'm OK and don't need anything. Now, this man who almost faints at the sight of blood, has managed to take care of a really nasty situation with confidence. He is gentle yet firm about what needs to be done. Along with my children (my daughters-in-law and son-in-law included) Harry is truly a gift of God. I can only hope and pray that I am worthy.
This is just a bump in the road to full closure of this chapter in my life. Maybe God's purpose was to show me the meaning of honest deep love. I'm humbled.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Update
It is much cooler here today along with a bit of rain. We really needed both the temperature break and the rain. The view from my window (in front of my computer) is lush and green. No sunshine but still almost perfect.
Jesse came to play with me yesterday and James will be here tomorrow. It's the highlight of my week to have the boys here. Since I've been a bit under the weather I'm home most of the time. The boys keep me up to date their progress in both swimming and music. We watch Netflix On Demand movies and play Noggin games. I've been reintroduced to Scooby-Do, Batman, Looney Tunes, Bugs Bunny, and Transformers (kids versions) just to name a few.
Harry is a busy, busy fellow these days. He waits on me hand and foot. I can't tell you how much it means to me that he and the children are so supportive. I've also been contacted by long time friends that I haven't heard from in years. Blessings are delivered in unexpected ways. I'm thankful for everything and everyone.
My appointment with my surgeon went well yesterday. The new margins are clear. Next step is a visit to my medical oncologist (tomorrow) and another to the radiation oncologist (23 July). One thing is for sure and certain - I've been scrutinized, examined, and probed. I have to say that I'm pleased with my medical team - I just never knew it include so many medical experts.
Well, folks, I believe it's time to watch the reefs for awhile. They are always moving and I can spend time just enjoying the coming and going of the reef critters.
My best to all along with thanks for your concern and prayers.
Mary
Jesse came to play with me yesterday and James will be here tomorrow. It's the highlight of my week to have the boys here. Since I've been a bit under the weather I'm home most of the time. The boys keep me up to date their progress in both swimming and music. We watch Netflix On Demand movies and play Noggin games. I've been reintroduced to Scooby-Do, Batman, Looney Tunes, Bugs Bunny, and Transformers (kids versions) just to name a few.
Harry is a busy, busy fellow these days. He waits on me hand and foot. I can't tell you how much it means to me that he and the children are so supportive. I've also been contacted by long time friends that I haven't heard from in years. Blessings are delivered in unexpected ways. I'm thankful for everything and everyone.
My appointment with my surgeon went well yesterday. The new margins are clear. Next step is a visit to my medical oncologist (tomorrow) and another to the radiation oncologist (23 July). One thing is for sure and certain - I've been scrutinized, examined, and probed. I have to say that I'm pleased with my medical team - I just never knew it include so many medical experts.
Well, folks, I believe it's time to watch the reefs for awhile. They are always moving and I can spend time just enjoying the coming and going of the reef critters.
My best to all along with thanks for your concern and prayers.
Mary
Friday, July 3, 2009
Out For Dinner
How is your holiday week playing out? Ours will be quiet which - given the circumstances - is good. Sunday will be gathering day here at our house and we have no real plans until then. Of course, this is a NASCAR at Daytona weekend. Races are Friday night and Saturday night. Sunday can be devoted to our family antics.
Last evening was "Nana's Night Out." (It just wore me out but was worth the effort and all I have to do here at home is rest and wait.) We - includes all local kids - went to a casual steak house for a fun dinner. It was just what I needed to clear my mind. We ate peanuts, appetizers, salads, steaks - well most of us ate steaks. James had a big dilemma - steak or mac 'n cheese. The steak lost out but he did clean up his Caesar salad. James and Jesse are model citizens when we eat out - credit to parents for helping the boys learn restaurant manners. Harry took his camera and we made lots of pictures. I didn't realize how bad I look until I saw them.
I'm going to try to upload a video of a few of the pics from last evening. If they don't load, I'll try again sometime.
Last evening was "Nana's Night Out." (It just wore me out but was worth the effort and all I have to do here at home is rest and wait.) We - includes all local kids - went to a casual steak house for a fun dinner. It was just what I needed to clear my mind. We ate peanuts, appetizers, salads, steaks - well most of us ate steaks. James had a big dilemma - steak or mac 'n cheese. The steak lost out but he did clean up his Caesar salad. James and Jesse are model citizens when we eat out - credit to parents for helping the boys learn restaurant manners. Harry took his camera and we made lots of pictures. I didn't realize how bad I look until I saw them.
I'm going to try to upload a video of a few of the pics from last evening. If they don't load, I'll try again sometime.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Another Long Day
It is another hot sultry day here in NE Alabama. The sun is hot, the grass is turning brown, the fig tree is shedding its fruit, and the fire (forest) alert is now red. I know most folks who read this blog hate the snow and ice of winter but, believe me, the sweltering heat is no pleasure either. OK, the weather and my rant about how uncomfortable it is done. Now on to other items.
Today is our 9th anniversary. We met on Oct 23, 1998 and were married on 1 July 2000. Harry said it was a good time for a wedding because he’d always be able to remember our anniversary. We both forgot until this morning when the reminder came up on my computer calendar. We are just sliding through the day with smiles for each other and lots of “I love you’s.” We’re old farts – what can I say.
Today was also the day I went for a full discussion with my surgeon regarding my lab reports. The lymph nodes are clear. However there is a problem with the tissue margin that removed the tumor. So – hi-ho, hi-ho, it’s back to surgery I go. Dang it this really messes up my plans. This surgery will be to remove a wider margin and also take a shallow part of muscle. We knew this cancer was deep and near the chest wall so no surprises there.
I have to admit that I’m a bit depressed today. By tomorrow I’ll have my attitude adjustment in place and be ready to move on. I’m still a very blessed and lucky old gal. I’ll post again soon. If it’s a couple of days don’t think that I’ve gone into a major slump. That just ain’t me.
I truly appreciate everyone’s concern and prayers.
Today is our 9th anniversary. We met on Oct 23, 1998 and were married on 1 July 2000. Harry said it was a good time for a wedding because he’d always be able to remember our anniversary. We both forgot until this morning when the reminder came up on my computer calendar. We are just sliding through the day with smiles for each other and lots of “I love you’s.” We’re old farts – what can I say.
Today was also the day I went for a full discussion with my surgeon regarding my lab reports. The lymph nodes are clear. However there is a problem with the tissue margin that removed the tumor. So – hi-ho, hi-ho, it’s back to surgery I go. Dang it this really messes up my plans. This surgery will be to remove a wider margin and also take a shallow part of muscle. We knew this cancer was deep and near the chest wall so no surprises there.
I have to admit that I’m a bit depressed today. By tomorrow I’ll have my attitude adjustment in place and be ready to move on. I’m still a very blessed and lucky old gal. I’ll post again soon. If it’s a couple of days don’t think that I’ve gone into a major slump. That just ain’t me.
I truly appreciate everyone’s concern and prayers.
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