Since my last update at the end of September a couple big things have happened. The biggest update is that I had surgery on November 14th - the rest of my breast reconstruction and a simultaneous inguinal hernia repair. I am healing really well from that, and am very thankful to have the tissue expanders out.
The next biggest update is a story I never really intended to have to tell you guys. Back in September my Medical Oncologist sent my tumor off for some additional 3rd party testing. This is a test that exists for patients with my type of breast cancer to determine whether or not there would be any benefit from chemotherapy. We were expecting the scores to come back really encouraging and to have confirmation on the plan of care, but, instead, the results we got were a little perplexing.
Long story short, my tumor tissue is currently in transit to my doctor who will have her specialized pathology lab perform a confirmatory test (to make sure the results are legit) before we make any real decisions. Please pray that her team is able to bring clarity to my results, and that (yes we are still praying for this =) these results will create ability for a clear treatment plan to be made. I will definitely update you guys through this site once I know anything more on this front (I have no real clue when it will be, but my best guess is sometime in January).
These results really threw me for a loop. Full disclosure, I've really struggled with the news. The surgery I had on the 14th was one I had really been looking forward to as sort of 'the last big thing'. The end to this crazy season. Then, 6:30pm the Friday before surgery I get a call and learn that may not be the case. It's been a crazy couple of weeks to say the least.
Meanwhile, I've started on the Tamoxifen. This is a little anti-hormone pill I will take every day for 5 years. This is the one part of my treatment plan that is not convoluted, and is an absolute must. I have to say, taking it for the first time was a little emotional for me in a way I wasn't expecting. It was sad for me. It was like a little reminder that I've had a disease. The hope, and what I am believing (most days - when fear doesn't set in ;), is that I am healed, and that this little pill will just prevent recurrence. The same would be true of any additional treatment I might need. This perspective has helped return me to a more peaceful state while I wait on the additional test results and finalization of treatment plan.
Thank you all for continuing to follow and join in my journey. I continue to be so very humbled and grateful for the support that has been provided. If I don't check back before - I wish you all a very Happy Holiday Season! May we all get good time with loved ones and intentionally reflect on the many things for which we have to be grateful.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Phil 4:4
