Results

Well, the results came back and things are looking fairly good. The radioactive glucose will light up any cancer that is just less than 1cm or larger on the PT scan. Fortunately, nothing really lit up--even in my breast where the large tumor originally was. My CA-125 number also went from 100 to 91. The scans also showed some fluid still in my chest cavity. The PT scans are not 100% accurate, and because my CA-125 levels are still over 35, it does indicate that there are still cancer cells somewhere in my body, they're just not sure where at this point. I was also able to go yesterday to see Dr. Reading, the breast surgeon, for a consultation. Both she and my oncologist feel that a mastectomy is a good direction to go at this stage. I am scheduled for this on May 4th, and, at this point, am thinking it will be a double--although this could possibly change. Dr. Prystas was only able to give me the one chemo drug last Friday, because the risk of a severe allergic reaction to the other was just too high. So, the side effects haven't been too awful the past 5 days--I am just extremely tired and sleepy most days. They also didn't send me home with the Neulasta shot (that's the one that causes the severe body aches) because they are giving me a "chemo vacation" for a bit. I'll go in a few weeks for a chest x-ray and a CA-125 blood test, then possibly have them "tap" the chest cavity again to drain the fluid and test it for cancer cells; then we head in for surgery at the beginning of May. Chemo has been suspended for the time being, and we'll see whether I will need more after the surgery. It's a little scary to think that they won't be putting any cancer-killing drugs into me for a while, but both Dr.'s assured me that it's okay to take a "chemo vacation" at this point. Dr. Prystas would have made me take it regardless of whether or not I was able to have the surgery. The fact that I have both ovarian and breast cancer has (and will) really complicate treatment, and I was quite nervous that Dr. Reading wouldn't agree to do the mastectomy with the ovarian cancer possibly still being there, but was so relieved when she didn't hesitate to say she thought it was the right thing at this point in time. I feel very blessed to have these two remarkable women as my physicians. They are both mothers themselves, and completely understand my desire to be here for my children. They don't sugarcoat things, but also express hope & confidence in my future. I feel every day that my being here 6 months later is the direct result of the faith and prayers that have been offered on my behalf. I am grateful to my Heavenly Father for allowing me to still be here--and to be feeling pretty good most days. Life is wonderful--my heart is full of thanksgiving! Love to you always, Kim

Waiting on Results

Last week was just great! I was able to attend some of the state dental convention in Salt Lake, & then had my sister come spend the weekend with me. I also had a CT scan last week of my chest, & it showed that the tumor in my breast has shrunk quite a bit. Yea! Today I had a CT & PT scan done from my head down to my knees. They put some radioactive sugar into my blood stream, & then did a special scan. They bring the solution into the room in a titanium syringe, and then I had to stay by myself for 45 minutes because of the radiation. Apparently, cancer cells really like the radioactive sugar & take it in, so then they show up on the scan. My oncologist & breast surgeon ordered the test to see whether there is cancer in any other areas of my body besides the breast. I guess this will help them determine whether they will go in & remove the tumor or not. I go in for my 8th chemo treatment this Friday, so hopefully I'll hear the results from Dr. Prystas at that time. As always, I am so very grateful for the blessing of prayers & healing. And can I just say that I am loving this spring weather? It is a wonderful time of hope & renewal, & I am feeling that in my heart. Love always, Kim

This One is for Sue

My friend, Sue Owens, stopped in to see me last week & told me that she wanted me to write more often (perhaps not such long epistles--my words, not hers!) letting her & others who don't see me very often know how I'm doing more regularly. Well, I am doing better this week. I'm feeling pretty good physically, other than being bone tired by about 11 am. I'm doing better emotionally this week, also. I have to remember that this is a journey, & it's going to have it's ups & downs. Five months ago, I wasn't even sure if I'd ever be able to leave my house or do anything normal again, so every day I'm alive & feel well is a bonus.
Kali is home from spring break this week, & it's always a delight to have her here! I was able to teach the lesson in Relief Society on Sunday, & I have a full week of activities planned with the family. I continue to be grateful to my parents, all those who bring in meals three times a week, & my cousin, Karen, who comes each week & helps with housework. I know it may seem like a small thing to those of you who are serving our family, but it helps our family immensely for me to have the energy to spend with them when they arrive home from work & school. It has been a long 6 months since things started going crazy for us, & I think the kids are holding up pretty well. We've been able to keep things fairly normal for everyone thanks to all these sweet "angels". I am also very thankful for all my dear friends who call to talk & listen, and those who write such sweet notes. I don't think you'll ever know how much it means to me--thank you. Love always, Kim