So, many of you know the reconstruction part of my surgery didn't go well at all. What I thought was going to be a slam dunk turned out to be a horrific result. After the double mastectomy I had an out patient procedure on the left to debried more tissue, remove the expander and remove an area of dead skin. I am looking at more surgery, probably the end of July when we return from our trip. I'll know more after consulting with the surgeons at UCSF where I'm being referred, since I'm beyond my plastic surgeon at this point.
So, the cancer part. I was emphatic about no Chemo all along, but it was suggested by the two Oncologists I consulted with to do an unorthodox treatment of Herceptin (a targeted therapy; Chemo w/o the nasty side effects) and Arimidex an Aromatase Inhibitor together. I had my first infusion 1.5 hrs. Tuesday. This will go to .5 hrs. every 3 weeks for a year. The Arimidex, if I can tolerate it, will be 5 years. I am terrified of the side effects which can be pretty debilitating in about 50% of patients on the drug.
So, my days are filled with many tests & appointments! C is a full time job and everywhere I turn, there are the most compassionate, sensitive, wonderful people around me. I remain horribly disappointed with my surgery, but I'm thankful it wasn't a visible part of my body that was ruined. I'm at 4.5 weeks now and have gone out to the club to chip and putt and am working on my Pilates at home and taking long easy hour to hour + walks when time permits.
I can't thank all of you enough for your prayers, support and concern. I so appreciate every phone call, text, e mail and card you've sent my way. Nancie
