June 9th to July 22nd - How Is This Possible?

 

Great News!

Ninety-eight days ago, I left the hospital recovering from sepsis and with concerns that I might die. It had been recommended that I sign up for hospice care. But how things changed! Yesterday I met with my oncologist and we decided that I would not continue with my cancer drug regimen. The last two scans have not been able to show any evidence of metastatic disease. What? How is this possible?

I feel so much better. This does not mean the cancer cannot recur -- it probably will at some distant date. I am not "cured". But I feel stronger and more optimistic. I'm now 76-years old and five years out from my original diagnosis. I credit my treatment with the fact that I am still here. However, the drugs have taken their toll. Every scan shows more degeneration of my bones, especially my spine. My immune system has become more and more compromised, leading to my recent health struggles. It is time to consider a new direction. I have always valued quality of life over quantity.

So I have a new journey. I will no longer be taking my monthly fulvestrant shot and my oral cancer drug, Ibrance. It's a little bit scary, but I can reevaluate this decision if necessary.

I appreciate all of you who have traveled this road with me. I will not have another scan for six months. In the interim, I hope I can motivate myself to be less sedentary and lose some weight. Perhaps Bill and I will be able to get in a small trip. We will see what life brings.

Kathy