A Recap of the last few months. Journey through Breast Cancer

Introduction

I find myself a little over halfway through my treatment schedule, having completed the grueling first six rounds of chemotherapy. This journey, initially approached with optimism, has unfolded into a rollercoaster of emotions, physical challenges, and unexpected turns.

A Grueling Experience

As I approach the second half on treatment, Herceptin-only, I reflect on the tough road I've traveled. The chemotherapy rounds, which included doxetaxol, carbo, and Herceptin, have taken a toll on both my body and spirit.

To be honest, by the third treatment, I was significantly knocked down and found it hard even to open my computer. The initial optimism waned, replaced by a sense of vulnerability and self-pity on most days. The harsh chemicals coursing through my body triggered substantial mood swings, making it a challenging time for everyone around me.

Throughout this ordeal, I've had the unwavering support of family and friends. My father and sister spent valuable weeks by my side, neighbors and friends provided meals, and Chelsea, my much-loved companion, found solace in their company. 

As always, my husband was never far, ready to take me to hospital and sit for hours with me, make sure I had clean sheets and a full jug of ice water by my side.

Cherishing Moments Amidst the Struggle

Around Christmas, I took a bit of a break before the 6th treatment. It gave me the chance to enjoy the holidays with my daughter and husband. We went to Banff, and even though I was weak and very tired, not much appetite, I was able to enjoy the fresh air, go for some walks, and watch my daughter have the time of her life. It was what the heart needed.

Overwhelming Side Effects

The side effects have been overwhelming - facial swelling, persistent nausea, digestive issues, dry and burning skin, heartburn, and various pains and weaknesses. Hospital visits became routine during the first six treatments with two week long stints in the wards trying to figure out what was going on.

The lack of an oncologist added another layer of frustration to an already challenging situation.

I had a Nurse Practitioner, and the other nurses in the cancer center, but it seemed like they just followed a standard treatment plan, and if I questioned anything, I was made to feel paranoid, “too anxious”, and even like I was a bother. I was asking for explanations to blood test results that were abnormal for myself, I’d be told, “we don’t look at that, or I don’t know” and my concerns would never be forwarded on. When they did get forwarded, the response I would receive was “If its too hard, you can just stop treatment”. I was in shock that this was even said. It just made me have more questions.

I noticed that The ER wouldn’t pass info to the ward, the ward would not consult the cancer center, the cancer center would not find me answers to my questions.

Glimmer of Hope

However, a glimmer of hope emerged when my first Herceptin treatment was delayed, giving me the opportunity to meet my new oncologist. The week of January 25th marked crucial meetings with both my medical oncologist and radiation oncologist.

Ongoing Treatment Plan

I recently learned that my treatment plan involves undergoing five weeks of radiation therapy, from Monday to Friday each week. This is a huge change in what I was originally told was going to occur. It turns out, in addition to Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, 2 of the 3 tumors I had were a rarer form of cancer known as Invasive Micropapillary Carcinoma. Interestingly, this type of cancer is not commonly found in the breast and can occur in other parts of the body. The cancer cells were detected in four out of five lymph nodes, with trace amounts in the fifth.

Given the aggressive nature of this cancer, especially its possible rapid spread through the lymphatic system, Doc has recommended a more comprehensive approach. The goal is to create an inhospitable environment for the cancer cells to prevent regrowth. Understandably, this means I will likely experience fatigue during the treatment. I couldn't help but chuckle at the irony, as I am already quite tired, but I recognize the importance of the process.

In preparation for the upcoming treatment, I have a CT scan scheduled for the 16th. To accommodate a family getaway before starting the therapy, we've decided to initiate the treatment during the first week of March.

Navigating the Complexities of Cancer

The struggle to receive comprehensive care was evident, with fragmented communication between the ER, the ward, and the cancer center.

Fortunately, meeting my new oncologists brought clarity to my situation, outlining a treatment plan and answering questions that had long lingered.

My medical oncologist explained the complexity of my cancer, addressing the presence of two types. Steroids were discontinued, and adjustments to my Herceptin infusion were made, resulting in a more manageable experience.

Hormone therapy with tamoxifen was initially proposed, but a subsequent call revealed my susceptibility to blood clots, leading to an alternative injection that presents its own set of challenges. 

I did ask about the possibility of not receiving the Hormone treatments, I was told that if I did not continue, we would be revisiting treatments within the next few years with a less positive outlook.  So hormone treatments it is!

Embracing a New Normal

Despite the uncertainties ahead, I've had a reprieve since my last Herceptin treatment. With the support of my doctors, the next steps are scheduled for March, allowing me a few more weeks of a semblance of normalcy.

My hair is starting to return, could be brown, blonde or grey…we will await the results. I'm finding strength in short walks and moments in the sun. Reflecting on what I've endured, I'm drawing closer to my faith, finding solace in the fact that I am soley in the hands of God.

The Road Ahead

This journey has been far from easy, and the road ahead promises its own set of challenges. Yet, as a family, we are determined to endure, evolve, and use our experience to support others embarking on a similar path.

A year from now, I believe we will emerge stronger, wiser, and unrecognizable from the individuals we were at the start of this arduous journey. I aim to write more frequently, as I begin to accept and recognize the new version of myself that is slowly emerging.