I am home from my first infusion of Zometa. I won't have any side effects from this drug as it is just used to strengthen my bones. This infusion did require the nurse to access my port for the first time since it was placed in my chest last week. Having been through this before, I knew to ask my doctor for a prescription for numbing cream last week. I applied my cream as directed and didn't even feel the LARGE needle as it was poked into my chest. However, I did end up crying. Today was my "welcome to reality" moment. The first time I had cancer I had this moment as we shaved my head on the backporch. The moment that cancer became my reality. Today it was as she put the needle in my chest. This is my life. This is my new normal.
On another note, we also got back the pathology report today. This sneaky little cancer has mutated. I've been taking medicine for the last 4 years because my cancer fed on estrogen. Well come to find out, the cancer mutated and no longer feeds on estrogen. This is how the cancer has grown and spread. I've had nothing in my body fighting it off. So I am now what is called triple negative.
estrogen receptor negative (ER-)
progesterone receptor negative (PR-)
Her2 negative
This doesn't change my treatment plan. I will still be receiving Zometa for my bones, Avastin to cut off the blood supply to the tumors and chemotherapy in pill form (Xeloda). Basically being triple negative just means that we don't have the hormone therapy options like we did before.
My doctor seems to think the treatment will actually be less harsh than the first time around. Nausea should be minimal. I should keep my hair. I won't have the horrible weeks due to low blood counts therefore no shots in the stomach. I hesitate to say I'm looking forward to this treatment, but if is is half as easy as he makes it out to be---I'VE GOT THIS!!
So tomorrow I will have my first Avastin infusion and my chemo pills should arrive via UPS as well. I also have a follow-up with my surgeon tomorrow to remove stitches in my neck and around my port.
In the world of cancer, it's been a good day.
2007 Breast Cancer 3 Day
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I'm so awed by your strength and courage, friend. I know it's Jesus in you, and your faith and trust in Him are boldly on display. You're on my heart and in my prayers each and everyday as you face your new reality; your new normal. May our loving heavenly Father continue to give you the grace and strength needed for each new day. I love you, Fran. XOXO
ReplyDeleteLove you Fran as you walk this out. I know you didn't ask for this but your faith and courage is amazing. Praying for you and your family today.
ReplyDeleteEchoing what the others have pointed out--your faith and courage are amazing, and God-given. Praying for you each and every day, dear friend, and believing for a mighty battle against this. Love you, Fran.
ReplyDeleteYou are in my thoughts and prayers constantly...just know that everyone who knows me is praying for you too....God saw you through this the last time and He will see you through it again....He is faithful in His love for us....Love you bunches.....
ReplyDeleteMy sweet Fran ... aka WARRIOR FRAN ... I sit here in awe of your strength and praise the Lord for His gentle hand moving over your body ... I echo your mom in that He is faithful and He loves you so much. We are standing at the ready ... we love you and are lifting you all up in prayer.
ReplyDeleteI am praying for you and I am cheering you on. You can do this. Often we don't know the "why" but we do know He has it covered. Faith is a powerful thing, not just for you but for all those that come in contact with you. Thank you for this blog and keeping everyone posted.
ReplyDeletePraying still, friend...
ReplyDeleteFran, You are strong and will overcome this. Believe it! We are praying for you dear sister. BethCO
ReplyDeleteI found your profile through your sister Kelli. She was on my babycenter board and I followed her (and continue to) through her journey. I want you to know that I am praying for you... and although we do not know one another, there are no strangers in the body of Christ. May God give you strength and may you know that you are resting in the prayers of so many. God bless you and your sweet family.
ReplyDeleteChristy
Delaware