I had my oncology assessment appointment yesterday to get my next cycle of Xeloda.
My tumour markers continue to fall really fast ….but
due to the increased side effects last round its a possibility if they get worse this round we may have to cut the dosage back
My liver function test markers are also improving really well….but
they want to do another scan to make sure what the blood tests are showing is what is actually happening because apparently even when the blood tests are good there can be more metastatic activity.
I should be fine to go to Australia like we are planning with YD…..but
could I put off booking until the scan result is back in case we need more tests or need to change chemo?
To say yesterday’s appointment left me a little pissed off and frustrated would be an understatement. It just reinforced all the stuff I try not to think too much about. That controlling Gertrude is how I’m going to live the rest of my life, and that dictates what I can and can’t do to a large extent. ( although it could have been a touch of leftover PMS as well LOL)
But…
After more discussion with the doctor it was decided that regardless of what the scan shows we won’t change treatment (if it is even necessary) until August – that we will try and make YD’s trip (with Mummy) happen regardless.
I asked for more panadol so they gave me this supply (480 tablets) …I dont think I am going to run out anytime soon LOL
makes my 140 tablets of Xeloda supply look small
But…
Today has been a good day. even though it has been miserable weather. Lots of positive things have happened today.
I read a book that had nothing to do with ‘cancer’ or ‘social work’.
I bought myself some flowers, flowers always cheer me up
bright coloured lilies and aloestromeria
I made dinner… a slow cooking casserole that I put on this morning for consumption tonight … which is making the house smell delicious… all chicken and herby
I went to a ‘Sweet Louise’ meeting and actually met another recently diagnosed IBCer who lives only about 40 kms from me. We were both rapt to meet someone else with IBC and are planning to meet up in a couple of weeks time. She isn’t on the internet but I’m taking my laptop and mobile broadband t-stick out to show her some resources.
The ‘Sweet Louise’ meeting was also good for just venting some of the frustrations from yesterday and talking about life in general. And because all the women have metastatic breast cancer – they get it.
Karyn @ kloppenmum
/ May 25, 2011….there is just something about food in a croc-pot that makes home – home. Shitty about the appointment; great that you’re hooking up with others who can really understand what you’re going through.
Terry Arnold
/ May 25, 2011Jenny, I am sorry to hear about the upsetting appointment. I love to read in spite of what all you are doing thru you have joy, and you have a heart for others..meeting the other ibcer, that is wonderful. I think we can find strength in each other. I hope you can show her the ibc map. I hate adding the pins, but I love turning the blue pins, (in treatment) to green, (NED). Cheers friend,
Terry in Texas
Susan / @WhyMommy
/ May 25, 2011I am SO GLAD that Sweet Louise is helpful to you!
It’s fantastic that you and YD will be able to go on your trip regardless!
As for the rest of it,THAT SUCKS. Xeloda did a number on me too. The energy was the worst. I was SO TIRED all the time! Do you have a good cream for your feet?
I hear your frustration. It’s good to get it out. Gertrude sucks.
Susan / @WhyMommy
/ May 26, 2011I HATE THIS DISEASE, and I HATE THAT IT WON’T LEAVE YOU ALONE.
justenjoyhim
/ May 26, 2011GAH, so sorry about all the frustrations. Glad you were able to vent, and of course you can always vent here. *hugs* to you.
ruth
/ May 26, 2011I am so glad you are doing well and the drs finally acceeded to your wishes for the trip and other things. You ARE doing well for now so enjoy yourself and let the rest go for awhile. Have a great trip.. would love to meet you sometime too, but MI is a long way from NZ! HUGS!
Love Ruth
Sunday
/ May 26, 2011I hate that Gertrude is causing you pain, and frustration, and most of all that she is making you question your future plans with YD and your hubby.
The Sweet Louise group sounds amazing and very supportive, good for you for reaching out to others and in the process finding peace as well.
I always have you in my prayers Jenny and I know that you can kick Gertrude to the curb again!
Now, how about that sushi date?
Michelle Landrum
/ May 26, 2011Hiya. I’m a pal of Sunday’s, and I just wanted to send along good karma to you and your family!
Kate @ UpsideBackwards
/ May 26, 2011Sending you lots of hugs, friend. We missed you this week, @whymommy and me. I haven’t been great about writing about my trip yet, but it’s coming, I promise. Just as soon as I know what time-zone I’m in long enough to write something
Lots of love!
jenny
/ May 26, 2011I got given 240 panadol when I went to A & E for a sore back just after Xmas
annie
/ May 26, 2011Ah damn, I’m sorry it’s giving you so much trouble. I hope your next rounds of test help alleviate some concerns. In the meantime I’ll be sending you lots of hugs!
Sis m
/ May 27, 2011- you are doing so well, luv you lots sis