Hope, Faith and Fight

 I went to the oncologist today. I got answers.

I’ll be okay. There is a treatment plan.

Before I get into it.

Stage four is not a death sentence. Let’s establish that. Maybe in 1990 or even 2000 it was. That was long before gene targeted chemo came about.

Just to educate, because I know I needed educated. I was still in that 1988 mindset.

Stage 1 – Localized Tumor

Stage 2 – Tumor reached tissues and surrounding areas.

Stage 3 – Tumor spread to Lymph Nodes.

Stage 4 – Tumor spread to lymph nodes and decided to sprinkle itself all about the body.

I have a Hormonal Positive cancer. HER2+ Stage 4.

It sprinkled itself, and I don’t mean that lightly. Most of the places the mets (As they call them) are small. The positive outlook to this and yes there is a positive, is that it is hormonal. Many clinical trials have been done.

I asked the oncologist, “Are there any trials?”

To which she replied, “I am glad you asked.”

She proceeded to tell me about a clinical trial that started five years ago and it specific for my type of cancer. The way she described it to me is this therapy goes into the blood stream, divides up and targets those hormonal cancer cells. Hitting them, destroying them, shrinking them, eliminating them. I may be on this for a long while.

It’s important to note that she was positive. She never once mentioned a ‘Timeline’ or how long I had, she called it a disease, not cancer, that we had to get under control.

I go every three weeks. This isn’t as brutal as regular Chemo because it is hormonal gene specific. I have 60% chance of keeping my hair. My navigating nurse told me, thinner and shorter hair tend to not fall out. The weight is not pulling it. So she suggested I keep it short like it is now. (Michele if you’re reading this, we need to stay on top)

I’m still  gonna be ready for wigs. Funny ones too.

How am I? I’m fine. I feel relieved and positive. I physically felt a heaviness to my body before this appointment. That’s gone.

God has this. God has me.

He gave me a sign.

I work for a church and have to go in two days a week. Wednesday and Sunday.

They told me today that Day 1 and 2 of treatment I will feel fine. Day 3 and 4 I will not, but will start feeling better by day 5. Then two weeks of good and start all over again until after 4 treatments and my body gets used to it.

I then was told my Chemo would be on a Tuesday every time. Meaning I should feel fine Wednesday and Better by Sunday. How’s that for a sign. God wants me to show up for work!

Honestly, I am not doomed, nor do I feel it.

I’m a fighter and pledge to fight. For my family, friends and readers.

I don’t feel sick, I feel strong and I just ask keep the prayers coming. I believe they help and work!

 

No song today but I will say, I feel confident!