I did get the biopsy done last Friday, and had high hopes that I would hear the results on Monday. Well, Monday came and went without any news. And it was 5:30 today before I finally got the call I was waiting for from the surgeon with the biopsy news. And the news was not what I was hoping for, but what I was kind of expecting given that I didn't hear until so late. The biopsy showed more cancer in the new spot and so now mastectomy is pretty much the only option. There's more to this story, and maybe I'll update this post later, but for now I'll just stick with the basic news. Surgery will no be an April 13 and I will meet with the plastic surgeon asap to discuss reconstruction. If there is a bright spot here, it is that I really liked the plastic surgeon so I won't mind having to see more of her.
The good news, that I don't think I posted yet, is that the PET scan looked very good. All the lymph nodes except for one looked normal, and the one that didn't look right is under my collarbone so it doesn't require me to make any agonizing decisions about whether to cut it out or not, since it isn't one that they can cut out. So the chemo did a really good job on the cancer and I will not be having any lymph nodes removed. I will have radiation on them after surgery and that should be able to knock any remaining cancer cells out. I have been much more worried about losing the lymph nodes than losing a breast, so I'm trying to put all of the news of the last week into perspective and get ready to move forward. Just as soon as I get some sleep...
Hope you are sleeping. Thinking about you.
ReplyDeleteDave and Cheryl
That is mixed news, Donna. I'm glad, too, that your lymph system is looking better and can be tidied up with radiation after your surgery. Wish the surgery wasn't necessary as well but seems that is not the case. Take it easy these next couple weeks leading up to the operation and may you jump up quickly afterwards.
ReplyDeleteHey Donna,
ReplyDeleteI like most roller coaster rides, but not yours; I can only imagine what you're going through. I also think you should feel good about the path you've taken regarding all the medical options facing you. Glad to hear that your lymph nodes appear clean, but I am not glad to learn the news about whether or not you should keep your breast. Looks like the next step is to get mentally prepared for the surgery. I hope it goes well! I am rooting for you!
Mike
My thoughts and prayers are with you as the date approaches. Keep fighting, stay positive!
ReplyDeleteDonna, I'll be thinking of you and hoping all goes well. I'm sending all kinds of positive energy in your direction - wishing you a fast recovery! - Molly
ReplyDelete