Thursday, September 2, 2010

Ladies and Gentleman -- We are in a holding pattern.....

What I mean is, things are good (great actually) and progress is steady.  But there are not a lot of daily accomplishments to report on at this time.  I mean do you really want to hear that I watched daytime TV for the first time in 2 weeks yesterday?  And now I know why I don't watch daytime TV!  Or that I took another nap today!  :-)  Some of you are probably jealous of that aspect of the recovery!  Every day I definitely get stronger.  The pain remains about the same for now...tolerable. 

Tomorrow is another Doctor appointment....this time with the Breast Surgeon.  She will check my healing progress and discuss some pathology results (http://www.genomichealth.com/  Genomic testing / Oncotype DX if you are familiar/interested) that will assist in determining if or what the chemotherapy path will be.  She will actually be referring me to an Oncologist who will analyze those results and consult with us on the need / benefits of chemotherapy.  So I won't actually know tomorrow about chemo (although I REALLY wish I would) but I am guessing get the referral and hopefully be able to schedule that consultation sometime next week. 

I don't know if everyone knows but my Mom was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 47 (same as me right now) and didn't even make it two years.  Hers was definitely more advanced (they didn't really talk "stages" 25 years ago) but she did go into remission for a short time after the surgery/chemo before discovering it had spread.  My point of telling this is that I am amazed at how far things have come since then.  Starting with awareness, diligence and so many medical advances.  At every turn in this process there has been a test / result to assist in making the next decision.  While eradication of breast cancer (all cancer actually) is desired and a "cure" would be a great second choice, we are very fortunate to live in times of such medical advancements.

So on a more positive note, here we are about to enter a three day holiday weekend (in the US anyway)!  I am thinking about a manicure (didn't count on the fact that it would be rather hard to file my own nails), lunch out with my sisters and maybe a cookout (barbecue for those who prefer that term).  How about you?  What are your plans for the holiday weekend?!  Whatever they may be......ENJOY!

4 comments:

  1. We will be thinking of you and Steve today. I'm sure your healing is on track due to the excellent care and positive attitude/sense of humor you've carried throughout.

    Labor Day for us will be baseball, barbecue, and the backyard..mowing that is! The cooler weather makes everyone smile right now.

    A new Bearcat is ready to head your way! Coming up less than two weeks. I've told her we have to stop shopping...dorm rooms are only so big!

    Enjoy the weekend and keep getting stronger!

    Love and peace to you, Carolyn

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  2. Hi!!!! You sound wonderful!!!! Did you walk around the block?? The progress you have made is amazing! good luck at the Drs.
    More baseball this weekend!!! Look for me in my buffalo hat!!!!!!!LOL!!
    Sue W

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  3. Susan - I've been travelling and just had a chance to catch up on your blog. First of all, I LOVE your attitude and positive energy - it just shines through your posts (Shauna, by the way, cracks me up - her sense of humor reminds me of you!!).

    Second, please know that you are in my prayers and thoughts - it sounds like all is going very well so my prayer is that this continues to a complete and full recovery.

    Third, I will keep up-to-date on this blog. Even if I don't always respond/comment, I am "lurking" on the blog and keeping up to date.

    Hugs,

    Joyce Dougherty with CWT

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  4. Hi Susan, I'm glad you are watching daytime TV. I did it alot and got hooked - so glad that may not be a possibility for you. You are absolutely right we are very fortunate for the advancements in research and care. I hope you find out about your chemo treatment. Let me know if you have questions. I have been thinking about you alot. I'm hope you got the manicure, lunch and barbeque. Thoughts your way, Denise

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