TaTa Wars

For those just joining in, my husband and I recently found ourselves at MD Anderson, speaking with a second opinions for my new cancer diagnosis and treatment plan. I just want to confirm my current treatment plan. Today we got to meet with the radiation oncologist. After examining my scans, she reassured me that, once again, my health escapades hadn't taken a turn for the unexpected. I was right on track, and she was also telling me exactly what other doctors had said. The biggest difference for me this time is that I am getting radiation to the left breast, which means there are a few more things involved since it is close to the heart. Radiation for Those Who Want a Brief Explanation 1. Before starting the actual treatment, a simulation session is conducted. This involves imaging scans (like CT or MRI) to precisely map the area that needs treatment. Some places add small tattoos or small temporary marks with sharpies and a circular clear tape placed on your skin to ensure accura...

After the amount of things accomplished on Wednesday, I was exhausted on Thursday. Today, I undertook the appointments with a mixture of apprehension, frustration, and hope. The stakes are always high and every consultation feels like navigating a labyrinth, especially when you are hoping for answers that you can't find. This day was no different. My appointment with the Surgical Oncologist was pivotal. We wanted answers, clarity, and a way forward. Surgical Oncologist The consultation began with a deep dive into my medical history and recent scans. The surgical oncologist’s words resonated in the sterile room, “Without a primary tumor, there’s no need for a mastectomy. It’s optional.” "We aren't sure where it started." The news was both a relief and a source of confusion. How could the cancer exist without a primary source? We knew it had to come from somewhere. Despite their best efforts, all the many doctors, biopsies, prods, and pokes on me had left us unable to l...

Get ready boys and girls... today is a doozy. And a long post too! But before we begin on one of the toughest days I've ever done, let's recap. Mon: Irritating Onc day where I was not told about suspicious fluid around lung/heart in time to get a biopsy & I got contradicting info from his NP the week before.  Tues: Spending the morning getting Immunotherapy and 2 Chemotherapies before going straight to the airport to fly to Houston and enduring long rental car lines and afternoon heavy traffic. A few more checks off this weeks list... a few more to go: Now back to my Wednesday... the Humpday I would like to forget! So, after 8 hours of cancer treatment, flying, and travel in congested Houston the day before, I didn't have much rest because we had to start Wednesday early. My husband and I decided to walk to the medical center since our hotel was close. However, it was not necessarily the easiest or closest walk - tons of traffic, intersections, and some strange indivi...

QUICK RECAP Monday was a let's check in with Oncologist - only to get annoyed that I was not told about suspicious fluid around lung/heart found on 10/5 CT before now, the Onc said I could get a biopsy when his NP told me I couldn't the week before, and now it was probably too late get the biopsy since it may be gone because we waited too long. And my official check-in pre-visit appointment phone call with MD Anderson. My Checklist at the Start of Tuesday: Still a Lot to Do! TUESDAY Today is going to be a loooonnnggg day! I started with an early morning chemotherapy time, getting to the facility while it was still dark outside, around 6:35am... It was weirdly silent... I was the only one in the building (except for a security guard) for a bit. I was actually concerned that my 6:45/7am scheduled time for chemotherapy was incorrect and just randomly sitting at the cancer center.  I was even there before the front desk check-in staff arrived. Normally, the place is packed. So, wh...

FYI - it's the start of a crazy week! Grab your drink, take a sip, and hold on tight - this week is going to be brutal!  I am scheduled for doctor's appointments every day this week - plus, it is my long 2 chemotherapies & immunotherapy treatment week on the same day I am flying to Houston, TX for my MD Anderson testing/doctor meeting week. Check Out My Week: I am going to need every bit of strength and energy I can find to get through this week. Originally, I was stubborn and said I could do the MD Anderson by myself... I reconsidered. While I could do, should I do it? I decided it was just too much for me while already in the throws of cancer treatment. MONDAY First off was the Oncologist. It is funny because I am excited when I learn something new... and no matter how many times you do this, each cancer gives you some lessons. Today, I learned something about my Port.  I am getting labs on Monday and treatment on Tuesday. Part of me didn't want to get poked in my por...