What's Next?
This seems to be the question I ask myself every day -- several times a day. Should I plan a trip? What will I be able to do? When will this cancer begin to take its toll? Why do I keep putting on weight? Will these Cincinnati gray and rainy days ever end?
My Health Update -- or at least as I understand it.
In late February, I had CT scans of my chest, abdomen and pelvis. This was followed up by a whole body bone scan in mid-March. A visit to my oncologist was pretty encouraging. The CT scan was "stable." When the area of concern in the bone scan was compared to the same area on the CT, my oncolgist said that she "would not specifically call this progression." I've included a picture of the bone scan.
The part in the red box seems to show cancer in the area of my collar bone (clavicle) and sternum, the same area where I had surgery August 19th, 2020. My oncologist did not suggest that I change anything in my treatment plan, which includes a monthly injection of fulvestrant to control estrogen production in my body. My tumor, like Mom's, is ER+ or "feeds" on estrogen.
I continue to feel great. I told her I like to "pretend" that I don't have cancer. She told me, that in her professional opinion, I do. This is what she put in my notes:
The last couple of days, I feel like there has been a "lot" of activity in my chest. I have no idea if this is indicative of anything, but I won't have long to wait. My next appointment is in 11 days. Apparently, I'll have scans every three months.
My mood always improves as the weather warms up and there is more sun in the sky. I also celebrated my 73rd birthday on April Fool's Day, a date I wasn't sure I'd make a year ago. So I guess all I have to do is see "what's next." Thanks for reading along with me.
Kath
