Friday, October 21, 2016

I am in the 1%

After my cancer surgery two years ago, I felt very lucky.  My doctor told me that 99% of people with my cancer at my stage (endometrial, stage 1) never had another problem with cancer.  He said I would heal from my surgery and go on with life.  


I had the recommended check ups and blood tests every other month.  When the tumor markers started going up, I had additional tests and found out I had cancer again.  After this surgery the pathology report said it was stage 3 and my doctor recommended six months of chemotherapy. I have an excellent doctor and I have complete confidence and trust in him.  After having some time to heal from the surgery and for the doctor to determine the drug dosage, today is scheduled to be day one of the first of 8 three week cycles (assuming yesterday's blood tests were good).   I'll take pills morning and night for two weeks, then have one week off before starting again. 


The drug I'm getting is oral not intravenous, so I think that will be easier for me.   There are many possible side effects, but a lot of them are only experienced by a low percentage of people taking the drug.  Hair loss is not one of the side effects, although some people experience hair thinning.  All in all, I don't think it will be as bad as it could have been.  I'm feeling very positive.  This is just a temporary situation.


I feel extremely fortunate to have so many people wishing me well.   I am very happy to have many friends, old and new, near and far, cheering for me.  Thank you for all your email and comments on this blog, cards and food, everything! I appreciate you all more than you know.  



17 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi Pamela i didnt realise you were unwell ,i love your positive attitude and i do hope you kick cancer in the ass,wishing you all the best my friend xx

Lisa J. said...

I'm cheering for you Pamela.

NADINE said...

I'm sure you'll get over it, Pamela. You're a fighter, and your positive attitude goes for the best. As you say, this is just a temporary situation. I'm heartfully cheering you ! :)

Nadine

kiwikid said...

Wishing you all the best Pamela, I hope the treatment works well and you keep well. Sending you positive thoughts.

Blue Moth said...

Quietly think of you. Wishing you well.

Bev C said...

Hello Pamela,

Sending you prayers and hugs. Best wishes.

Happy days.
Bev.

Carol- Beads and Birds said...

I had no idea your recent surgery was cancer related. That bugger has hit our family pretty hard lately so I can understand how you must be feeling. You seem pretty strong willed and I know that has a lot to do with your recover. Another element is prayers and I know you are receiving them. Good luck with this treatment.
xx, Carol

D1-D2 said...

Take care of yourself Pamela.

Renee said...

I am sending hugs and prayers your way. I love the card Sally sent you. You will kick it and we'll be cheering you on. (((Hugs)))

Lin said...

Hope the treatment works for you and sending lots of love and best wishes. xx

Anna van Schurman said...

This is not the 1% to be a part of, I think. Best wishes.

Queeniepatch said...

I hope the medication will help you kick that a** and that the side effects won't be too bad. You are a fighter and will win come out victorious. Plenty of rest, activities that take your mind off things and needlework are efficient ways to win, too.
Keep fighting.
You are in my thoughts.

Sheryl said...

Sorry to hear about this little setback, Prayers and best wishes going your way, keep positive.

Anthea said...

Oh goodness Pamela, I'm so sorry to read your news... it sounds like there is a good plan in place &you have good care, so I send my prayers & hugs & support for a positive outcome for you. xx

Von said...

Keep fighting the fight, Pam! You will overcome!

Wendy said...

So sorry to read this news...will be keeping you lifted up in prayer knowing that God is our healer...I pray that peace will cloak you and be with you at all times...may these treatments be the end of cancer in your life. Sending a big hug to you across the ocean. May God bless and keep you.

FlashinScissors said...

I am so sorry to hear your news.
It sounds like you are being well cared for, your doctor sounds very reassuring, and you have a very positive attitude! I hope the treatment works and that the side effects don't affect you too badly! Wishing you well, Pamela! Keep positive! Best wishes, and love!
Barbara xx