Summer 2006
Hello everyone! I bet you thought you wouldn't be hearing from me anymore, huh? Well, I'm baaaack!
Sorry it has been so long in between updates. Here's the latest (abridged version):
Treatment
-- Currently taking Tamoxifen, a daily pill to block estrogen receptors on any remaining cancer cells, experiencing minimal side effects. Supposed to take this for five years.
-- Had to stop taking Herceptin, an infusion of a very effective drug I was supposed to take for a year. I was one of the unlucky few who experienced "cardiac toxicity" from this drug. In other words, it was attacking my heart as well as the cancer cells, so had to stop that one.
Hair
-- I have short, brown very curly hair. It finally looks like I just have a short haircut on purpose, getting past that awkward growing-out look. Not the style I would have chosen, but it beats the heck out of being bald!
Reconstruction
-- Had my tissue expanders (inflate-a-boobs) taken out in beginning of March and saline implants put in. Plastic surgeon had to do some extra work on my "pockets," so he was not able to get them as big as we had planned. Will see him next week to discuss possibly having more surgery.
Genetics
-- Tested negative for the BRCA genetic mutations (aka "the breast cancer gene"). This was great news. Now my mom and sister don't have to get genetic testing and possibly make tough decisions (though they're still being monitored closely) and I don't have that added high risk of ovarian cancer.
Life in general
-- Looking up. I am back in shape (actually had to DIET! in addition to hitting the gym) and enjoying the summer with my family. Cooper and Wesley have enjoyed going to the pool, vacation Bible school and tennis camp, and Cooper also went to soccer camp. We've been to Destin twice and still have trips planned to New Orleans and Disney World. Crazy busy -- just the way I like it!
Hope all is well you all of you.
Love,
Michelle
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