Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Update: It's good to be back...

Hi everyone!
Wow...I just realized that I haven't posted anything since October! I guess those last few treatments really did me in. I finally feel like my brain is coming back online and it feels WONDERFUL!

Here's a recap of the past few months to get everyone up to speed:

  • The last round of chemo was on Dec. 18. I was able to function during Christmas, which was more than I could ask for. The last round really did me in, though.
  • Had a wonderful trip to New Orleans planned for the weekend before New Year's with a big group of old friends. Made it through Friday night, but crashed on Saturday afternoon and was in bed till Monday. Major bummer. I guess I just pushed myself too hard.
  • Began travelling for work again 3 weeks after my last treatment. I've made a trip to Connecticut, Atlanta and Houston since. Trying to take it easy and keeping plenty of hand sanitizer on hand. :) It is really good to get back into the swing of things.
  • Up until last week, I still had eyelashes and eyebrows. Unfortunately, the chemo gremlins decided that they needed to go...so i now look more like this:
  • I have some peach fuzz on my head...no telling what will come back. I'm told it will be totally opposite of what i was before. The wig I have will definitely come in handy during this next phase!
  • I have my (hopefully) final surgery tomorrow, Jan. 30. I'll get my new, "real" fake boobs. :) I am very excited about this surgery, as the expanders I have now really stink!
So, after surgery, I'll meet with a radiation oncologist to see if they recommend radiation. Was hoping to get away without that, but we'll see what they say.

I've been told that I should go on Tamoxifen, an estrogen inhibitor, for 10 years. Still deciding about that one. Open to people's opinions who have taken it...have heard good and bad reactions.

I am almost back to normal and really glad to be over the worst part of this. David, Chaney and Lilly have been incredible throughout all of this and I am so blessed to have them. What a life lesson for all of us!

Additionally, all my friends, family and co-workers have been such an incredible support system. My thanks to all of you have sent a card, text or meal our way. It will never be forgotten!

I've just been asked to participate in the "Passionate Walk with Christ" (a living Stations of the Cross) at Cypress Springs Mercedarian Prayer Center (Sister Dulce) on February 22 at 7 PM. This makes me very nervous, but it is the least I can do to show my thanks to Sister for her counseling and support. She does so much for so many. I'll be talking about my diagnosis and faith during Station 3 - when Jesus falls for the first time. Please pray that I make it through without losing it.

I'm also planning a team for the Baton Rouge Komen Race for the Cure. "The A-Team" will be walking on March 2 at LSU. If you want to join the celebration, we welcome you. Click this link to join our team.

Join "The A-Team"!!!

Lots of things to do...but so good to be around to do them!  I'll try to keep this updated more, as I'm feeling much more like my old self. Thanks for your patience! :)

Peace and love-
Angie