Last Tuesday, I met with my Oncologist. It was an encouraging visit. My type of breast cancer has one of the best prognoses. He told us that if I can make it past the two year mark, the chances of it coming back are very unlikely.
Currently, I am seeing a Physical Therapist who specializes in Breast Cancer patients. She has been working with me to regain range of motion in my left arm. At times, this process has seemed agonizingly slow, but she has assured me we are making improvements at a swift rate.
I have recently developed Axillary Web Syndrome, AKA, “Cording”. It is believed to be a common side effect from surgery with lymph node removal. It can traumatize the connective tissues, which can lead to hardening of the fibers that make up the bundles of tissue, causing ‘cords’ to form. While this is a painful side effect, my therapist is confident that we caught it early and with additional therapy (bleh), we should be able to resolve it. I am already seeing improvement.
Not only do I finish the last of my Herceptin infusions in April, I will also meet with the surgeon to discuss the next surgery options and dates. I expect to have surgery sometime in June. The recovery time is expected to be six to eight weeks. I am both dreading this next step but also anxious to be done with it.
I am glad to report my hair is growing back. It has worked as an external guide to measure internal healing. It’s slow, but steady.
Many of the obvious side effects are fading away. I am grateful each time I realize one is no longer an issue.
Although I am seeing improvement in this, one side effect that has been more reluctant to release its grip on me is fatigue. It has been an almost constant companion for way too long. I have become adept at managing it, and I am trying to find a new normal. It is really hard to know what to expect at this stage. My hope is that it will release me completely and I will be fully restored. We are confident He will fully mend my body. In the meantime, I am being forced to learn (again), to be gracious with myself and with accepting help from others. I am grateful for every bit of growth and restoration, and I am encouraged with every increase in my activity levels. Sam has joyfully observed, “Mom! You’re coming back!”
My kids continue to be my cheerleaders. They’ve faithfully rejoiced with me in each new victory as I mend. They’ve encouraged me to push through my hurdles and celebrate with me for each obstacle overcome. I am so proud of them and so grateful to have them on my team!
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