Well I guess I need to write an update since some of you might be wondering what is going on with me.
I had to re-schedule my PET scan for December 15th. I got the results a week or so later and the doctor said the cancer is still growing and spreading. There were some new areas of activity. One of those areas was my underarms, specifically my left side. What is weird is that I felt a lump, but it just kind of came out of nowhere...it was large quickly...and painful, so I didn't really know that it was my lymphoma until the doctor confirmed it. I was just thinking, "oh great, what else is wrong with me".
When the doctor told me my results, I asked if I could be re-biopsied. I just wanted an additional confirmation that we were fighting the right disease. So, mid-January (sorry don't remember the date) I went in to have a biopsy done. They took a core needle biopsy from my painful underarm lymph node. Which for some strange reason helped the lump to be less painful.
The same day as my biopsy, I also had a dye study done on my port. I had started having pain when the nurses flushed my port. When I went in early January to have my port flushed I warned to nurse and when she tried to push the saline in she said that it was hard to do. She could also tell that it was quite painful for me and asked if it felt like pain or pressure, to which I answered pressure. It is a strange feeling to try to explain but it hurt, believe me. I am pretty tough and it was bringing tears to my eyes. Because of this they ordered a dye study. The dye study showed that my port catheter was blocked, by forcing dye and saline in my port, another painful experience. At first they told me there was a hole and then that my lymphoma was pinching off the catheter, so....either way it was not functional.
The doctor spoke with me about what I wanted to do, as far as treatment. He of course suggested beginning chemo again, and going with the regimen that he had spoke to me about before. He also said that the port would need to come out, and he really wanted it to be replaced.
So, last Friday, the 1st, I had a new port put in and the old one taken out. I had some nice neighbors watch the girls for me and another one drive me and wait for me. Thank you ladies very much! The procedure took a little longer than expected, but turned out fine. I am a little sore and stiff, but fine...as long as nothing touches my incision sites. Of course with two little girls...let's just say I scream sometimes.
I have asked my doctor's office for a schedule of the chemo cycles, but the nurse said the doctor is no longer sure what cocktail he wants to start me on. So...until then I am waiting. My sweet neighbors have also volunteered to help with and watch the girls when I begin treatment. I am extremely thankful for their help, especially since my husband is away for work for a few months. Thank you again ladies!
So....that is it for now. Thank you for your continued prayers and concern! I will try to be better about updating.
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