LOTS of updates!

Well, friends, I have been a bit remiss in updating the blog.  Life got crazy, I wasn't feeling well, and we have been inundated with doctor's appointments.  With that being said, we have made some progress and are moving forward.

First of all the second oncologist David and I met with was quickly ruled out. The doctor kept us waiting nearly 45 minutes before seeing us, which started the appointment at a disadvantage.  He also was not as thorough or personable as the doctors at VCU that we really liked.  Finally, he didn't recommend a treatment plan that David and I felt was aggressive enough.  As we were leaving his office, the nurse was trying to schedule an MRI, and David and I gave her the "we are going to talk about it and call you back...."  which really means "please let me get out of here!"

That same afternoon we met with my hematologist to get some blood work done, to check iron levels in advance of whatever surgery is necessary. The hematologist is also an oncologist (though not a gynecologist oncologist and therefore won't treat this cancer). He was able to help us review the two opinions we have received.  He likes to treat cancer very aggressively and recommended removal of the uterus at this point, after completion of an MRI. However, he did recognize that uterine cancer is not his speciality, and if we are comfortable with the recommendation of the VCU doctor, then to proceed with that.  His caution was to not take risks with my health and to err on the side of caution if there is ever any doubt about treatment options.  The doctor ran my blood for the cancer gene, and told me that I do not have the cancer gene, which is great news. This means that I am not genetically predisposed for other types of cancer. 

At that point it was decided-- we are going to use VCU Massey Cancer Center for our treatment of the cancer.  The only downside to VCU is the sometimes lengthy wait time for scheduling procedures.  For example, the earliest MRI appointment that VCU had available was November 28, which seemed like too far away for me.  My hematologist offered to have his staff perform the MRI and transfer the results and slides to VCU provided they would accept them.  After MANY phone calls and negotiations, I was able to schedule the MRI for November 14, and I will meet with the oncologist on November 21 to get the results. This will allow time for the tumor board at VCU to meet and review the MRI results and determine an appropriate course of treatment.

Over this past weekend, I became ill and was having symptoms that were abnormal. Significant pain and bleeding caused me to page the on call doctor for advice on Sunday afternoon.  She was able to give me some remedies and recommended that I go to the ER if I got dizzy, but to follow up with my doctor on Monday. My doctor called me Monday morning and I went in to meet with him.  After doing an exam and blood work, he adjusted my medication and prescribed something for the pain that I was experiencing.  His main goal is to control the symptoms until we get the results of the MRI, and determine how we are going to treat the cancer.  The staff was really helpful and kind. Even though I left there feeling sick and deflated, I felt as though the doctors were taking very good care of me, and were taking my symptoms seriously, which was a huge relief and made me feel good.

During this process, I received a call from the hematologist, who told me that my iron stores level came back as low again.  As a result, I will need to undergo 2 iron infusions prior to the surgery to treat the cancer.  The infusions are not painful or difficult, but is just one more thing to deal with, and  one more appointment to navigate. (Also, they are most definitely NOT cheap, even with insurance!)

Today is Wednesday, and I am feeling much better than I was on Sunday. I am still having symptoms and pain, but am controlling it better and not feeling as drained as I did over the weekend. 

I also had my MRI this morning, which turned out to be quick and painless. The staff did a great job.  Per my agreement for this early MRI, I waited for a CD copy of the MRI images and hand delivered the CD to VCU.  Now, I just (not so) patiently wait for next Wednesday and the results that I will receive from the oncologist.  At that appointment, he will be able to tell us the stage of the cancer, how far it has spread and the recommended treatment plan of the VCU tumor board.

I feel as though I am in capable hands.  It is still terrifying at times, and the emotions come and go, but I am 100% confident in our decision to go with VCU and look forward to getting additional information so that we can begin to treat this cancer.

So, I'm sure this blog is less interesting, and more information updating for those of you that are interested in the progress and treatment options.  We should know more in about a week.

Now the hard part...trying to occupy my mind for an entire week.  There is absolutely nothing that I can do at this point. The tests are done, the results are being processed.  It is out of my control, so I need to focus on other things in life in order to keep my sanity. 

I definitely think I underestimated the physical and emotional toll that this diagnosis would take on me so early in the process. I am physically and mentally exhausted.  So many people have shown tremendous kindness during this process, from sending flowers, to magazine subscriptions, meals, cards and many other things.  I am thankful for them all.  One gift that stays in my pocket is a stone that just reads "Hope." I received this from two special friends and every time I feel it in my pocket, it reminds me to stay hopeful and try to stay positive, whenever possible.

I will update more as time allows. Thank you friends for caring enough to follow along and keep in touch.  I have been touched by friends I haven't really spoken to in years, but have contacted me to offer a kind word or note.  Each one is so appreciated.  Thank you all.  I hope I have great news to report after next week's appointment!