September 2nd to December 6th - Answers, Answers and More Answers

 

It's been more than two months since I updated this blog. I felt like I had nothing to say. I've been feeling pretty good. Yet I was feeling "unsettled." When you have "comorbities" it's difficult to sort out what symptoms come from which health concern. Not only do I have cancer, but I have issues with my heart. These include afib, and significant calcifications in my aortic valve and root.

I'm now on my 5th round of Ibrance and tolerating it surprisingly well. This drug is designed to slow the progression of my type of cancer. It must be working. I want to thank those who convinced me to give this drug a shot. (You know who you are).

Since September I've had a mammogram, targeted ultrasound, total body bone scan and a CT scan. I had a clear mammogram and the findings for both the bone scan and and CT described my cancer as "stable.".

I met with my cardiologist last week and he scheduled me for an Echo in February so we can measure any changes in calcification in my aortic valve. I may eventually be a candidate for a valve replacement. But how does this square with Stage 4 cancer?

Today I met with my radiologist and got nothing but good news. Despite having radiation fibrosis, it, too, was described as "stable." She reviewed CT scan images with me and answered all of my questions. She said that my Stage 4 cancer is different from other Stage 4 cancers. The involvement of my sternum is indicative of a small progression from my chest wall. Typically, cancer spreads through blood vessels or lypmph nodes, which she said is not what has happened in my case. She claims I could live for years if my medications are able to keep my cancer "stable." I never knew what a wonderful word "stable" could be.

So I'm going to shift my focus to Christmas and other end-of-the-year celebrations instead of "waiting for the other shoe to drop." I realize how blessed I am to have such a wonderful team of doctors who treat me as an individual and not just my disease.

Decorating is hard for me, but I at least managed to get something together. Here is the outside of our house. Now all I need is a fire in the fireplace and the company of my husband and our dog.

I wish all of you who have shared this journey with me the best the holidays have to offer. Blessings to you, your families and all who are struggling with their own health battles. Love you.

Kathy