I thought as some time has passed that I should give an update of where I’ve got to, for those of you who I don’t speak to regularly.
The end of this week will see six weeks since my surgery. For me it has at times felt much longer. The first couple of weeks was all about the recovery from the surgery. I was tired but sleep although often was fitful as I struggled with pain and getting comfortable. I was into my fifth week before the wound under my armpit healed together and that wasn’t something I expected, although I’m told it’s common. Once it had healed I felt much better in my self plus it improved my mobility. During the same week I was given some results. My lymph nodes despite lighting up suspiciously, like a Christmas tree was how the surgeon put it, are clear. I had four tiny areas of cancer and they are 99% sure that they have got it all out. The surgeon was really happy and assured me that this was good news. It’s strange how your new alternative reality becomes having four bits of cancer removed from you as good news, it’s somewhat a juxtaposition. In the same way that I was pleased to see an appointment with the oncologist to discuss my treatment plan. Again this is good news as it’s not until January as my cancer is out, it also gives my scars time to heal so they will stand up better under the radiotherapy. As far as I know at this stage I will be having radiotherapy as well as hormone therapy. Reiteratively this is good news as I don’t need chemo. That’s not to say there won’t be side-effects but they will be less fierce. I worry particularly about the long term effects of the hormone therapy as it can weaken your bones and I already have an early diagnosis of osteoporosis. There is lots of good news amongst the scary words and long term implications. In spite of the undoubted trauma that my Mind has been through I am feeling emotionally quite strong at the moment. I admit the physical trauma has been harder for this 53 year olds body to bounce back from. I think I underestimated how long it would take, thinking I would be back at work now and possibly working during my treatment. Naive maybe, but as those of you who know me well I do my best to stay positive.
My recovery has been aided by friends and family visiting and also sending messages of support. In the last week or two I have managed to get out and join some of the festivities. This has not been without its difficulties, I will tell the saga of bras on another occasion. Whilst it’s been enjoyable it has been tiring and highlighted that I’m not as recovered as I think I am. Great to see everyone though.
Sleep is still the biggest challenge and the onslaught of hot flushes and restless legs are not helping.
My next steps as well as the treatment include spending quality time with family over Christmas and new year and then some healthy eating and gentle exercise to continue my recovery. I’ll keep you posted.
