Update 16
Both chemo education appointments went well and Joe and I are making sure both St. Luke's Oncology and LMH Oncology have results from each other's blood work, procedures, etc… so we are all on the same page and nothing is missed.
Both chemo education appointments went well and Joe and I are making sure both St. Luke's Oncology and LMH Oncology have results from each other's blood work, procedures, etc… so we are all on the same page and nothing is missed.
On top of what I listed in the last update for this week, an echocardiogram for baseline information regarding my heart function was thrown in late in the day yesterday. Results look great and the tech said I had the best looking heart she's seen all week. I was a good 50 years younger than every other patient in the waiting room but I am choosing to still feel good about that compliment. (My heart function has to be monitored over the course of the year long Herceptin treatment because heart function can sometimes decline with this drug.) It was the first echo I've had and involved the injection of contrast dye and a long, painful period of laying on my side for the first time since surgery in November while an ultrasound wand was pressed all around my aching chest while I took deep breath after painful deep breath. Very cool to see and hear my heart working, but I think echocardiograms are probably more fun when you haven't just had major chest surgery.
Today's port placement went "exceptionally well" according to my surgeon when he updated Joe in the waiting room. They didn't have to poke around for a good fit, it was a textbook scenario and placed quickly with ease, which should mean the best possible outcome for me. Before they took me back I told the doc I wanted this to be the most comfortable port he placed in all of 2015 because I don't get it out until after next Christmas! I don't care how visible it is under my skin (right near my collar bone) but please oh please let it not bother me. So far, with pain meds on board, all I've felt is a strong stinging sensation right along the incision. Ice packs are helping with that and it will pass and I should be good to go.
The only thing we have planned for next week is enjoying Christmas!
I am currently scheduled for chemo treatment #1 on Tuesday, December 29th.
Before 2016 starts, I'll already be 1 down, 11 to go!
Hope it's not been too painful so far since you got it. Looking forward to 12 down, zero to go.
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