12/03/2025
What a difference a year can make! One year ago, after much time and effort trying to do it myself, I decided to work with a professional in rebranding my practice, website, and. photos. I am so grateful for for helping me with this.
I really wanted to share an update with things I am thankful for last month. On November 24 I finished 15 rounds of radiation and “rang the bell” again, but the side of effects kind of crept up on me. In addition, 2 of my son’s senior classmates lost mothers to cancer in the past month (4 have lost a parent to cancer in the past year). This time of year also marks loss of several beloved to this awful disease. Saying my anxiety rose doesn’t really capture the terror I have felt. Many people have commented “but you’re cancer free, right?” I want to clarify, that phrase is not really used anymore and since the PET scan in March didn’t detect the spread to my lymph node (hence, the need for radiation after 16 rounds of chemo and full mastectomy), I can’t even say that there is “No Evidence of Disease” Frankly, I don’t think anyone who has gone through this ever feels free from its grip.
BUT, I had my oncology follow up today and when we asked about Minimal Residual Evidence testing, the doctor agreed and with tears of relief in my eyes, I eagerly whipped my arm out to give the 4 vials of blood to send off for it. I still have a long way to go. Next week I start shots to “shut off the ovaries.” Then 6 months of chemo pills, followed by more meds for the next decade.
I do have much to be thankful for, but I only have energy to reflect on the most fundamental. To celebrate each day I wake up and be present to appreciate what is in front of me.
