I had two MRI's - pelvic and abdominal on April 28, 2010. My appointment was at 1:00 but they were running late and I went in just before 1:30. I had to lay on my back for the first MRI which was the pelvis and my body was inserted up to my chest area. My arms had to be placed by my chest but were able to relax the elbows against the sides of the machine after I was inside.The nurse gave me headphones to listen to music but the noises from the machine were louder than the music. I had called my Oncologist a few days earlier to get some medication to help me relax for these test. I had taken Valium RX in the past but this time he called in a RX for Ativan. I never took this medication before so I tried a pill the night before the test to see how my body would react. It helped me to relax and not tense up too much. My mom drove me to my appointment since I took this medication before my test. If you haven't had a MRI, they aren't comfortable. I was nervous to go into the machine and get tensed for this appointment. I wondered about the results but it didn't seem to bother me as much as being in this machine. The medication was wonderful! After this test they inserted an IV in my arm for the abdominal MRI and contrast portion which lets die into areas to compare the pictures. My entire body had to be inserted into the machine. My arms were straight up by my ears. This section of the test was long. Towards the end of the test, I had to take three deep breaths then hold my breath depending what he told me.The average was about 20 seconds. This was repeated several times.
The test was finally over. I had to wait for the information to be transferred onto a disk which I keep with all my medical records. I can't download/read the disk but is handy to bring to any doctor appointments if needed for the future. When I came out to the waiting room my mom mentioned to me that it was 3:15. Wow, I was in there for a long time. I had told my kids that I was going to pick them up from school that day and they get out at 3:30. I called the school and told them to get on the bus. I was able to make it to the bus stop on time. I didn't tell my kids that I was going to this appointment because I didn't want to worry them until I know more information. They were wondering why I didn't pick them up so I did tell them I had some test done and reassured them I will let them know the results as soon as I know. I had to take AJ for his physical so Emily went with my mom to her house. I was exhausted and tired from the day so I went to bed early.
I went to the doctors the next day so check back later for all the updates. There's a lot of information that happened last week so I need to update my blog several times this week.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Thursday, April 22, 2010
updated blood work
I had my blood work re-tested for my one month follow up with the CA-125. I received a call from my Oncologist and he explained that my blood work number has shown an increase. My blood work last month was 44 and now its 55. There are over 50 reasons why my blood markers are increasing. My internal ultra-sound was good but further testing will help us determine if there are other medical issues we need to correct. I am having a pelvic MRI on Wednesday April 28. I feel good and don't feel sick but I would like to know whats happening with my body. I will keep everybody posted as soon as I know some answers. Take Care!!!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
I had an ultrasound of my ovaries.
On April 29, 2010 I had an ultrasound of my ovaries. I received the results right away and everything was terrific! They looked healthy and there were no signs of any abnormality. The only area that she documented for my medical records was the lining of my uterus was thicker than normal. This is common when an individual is taking Tamoxifen.
The previous blood work showed a slight changed in my CA-125 which is associated with the ovaries. I am having my blood withdrawn again to see what the CA-125 will show a month later. My Oncologist and my OBGYN agreed even thou I had an ultra-sound and it was perfect, they would like to see what my blood indicates a month later. I will go in the next few days since my last test was on 3/5/10 and it has been a month already.
I spoke with the nurse from my plastic surgeons office in Long Island (about 1 1/2 hrs away from where I live) to inquire about tattooing my nipples. I will have to travel to NY since this is where my plastic surgeon main office is located. My plastic surgeon doesn't have time to do the tattooing since she perform surgeries for breast cancer. This is scary to know there is so much breast cancer out there! The nurse explained to me this procedure would be performed in the office and would take around 1 1/2 hours to tattoo bi-lateral. This would be covered under my insurance since I had cancer. Since we live so far away, we agreed that I can have my office consultation on the same day. At that time, we will decide on the color pigment of the nipple. I will have very little or no sensation while the tattooing is being applied in that area. The ink that is used is a micro-pigment which is different from a regular tattoo. It will take about two weeks to see the color around the nipple. I will be bandage up for two weeks after-wards. I will need to purchase non-stick bandages, aquaphor and bacitracin ointment. The pigment does fad over time and I might have to get it re-done in 7-10 years. I am going to schedule this procedure for the beginning of May. I will keep everybody posted.
The previous blood work showed a slight changed in my CA-125 which is associated with the ovaries. I am having my blood withdrawn again to see what the CA-125 will show a month later. My Oncologist and my OBGYN agreed even thou I had an ultra-sound and it was perfect, they would like to see what my blood indicates a month later. I will go in the next few days since my last test was on 3/5/10 and it has been a month already.
I spoke with the nurse from my plastic surgeons office in Long Island (about 1 1/2 hrs away from where I live) to inquire about tattooing my nipples. I will have to travel to NY since this is where my plastic surgeon main office is located. My plastic surgeon doesn't have time to do the tattooing since she perform surgeries for breast cancer. This is scary to know there is so much breast cancer out there! The nurse explained to me this procedure would be performed in the office and would take around 1 1/2 hours to tattoo bi-lateral. This would be covered under my insurance since I had cancer. Since we live so far away, we agreed that I can have my office consultation on the same day. At that time, we will decide on the color pigment of the nipple. I will have very little or no sensation while the tattooing is being applied in that area. The ink that is used is a micro-pigment which is different from a regular tattoo. It will take about two weeks to see the color around the nipple. I will be bandage up for two weeks after-wards. I will need to purchase non-stick bandages, aquaphor and bacitracin ointment. The pigment does fad over time and I might have to get it re-done in 7-10 years. I am going to schedule this procedure for the beginning of May. I will keep everybody posted.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Bloodwork results
I was a bit frustrated with the nurse who I was in touch with about my blood results. I called her last Friday 3/12/10 and we were disconnected then the phone was busy for the rest of the day. On Monday 3/15/10, I called her again. She said she remembered my name, asked for my home number and she will call me back because it's busy in the office. Monday went by and guess what she never returned my call!!! Now I was starting to think that perhaps the doctor needs to speak with me but she didn't mentioned nothing. My mom made a good point to me. If it was an urgent matter then the doctor would of already called me with the findings. On Tuesday the office is closed. I called once again on Wednesday 3/18/10 and the representative I've been talking with said O" the doctor didn't call you, I left the message on his desk. She could of told me this information a few days ago! I would of make sure I got a hold of the doctor. I didn't have faith that she would make sure the doctor will get my message. I called back and spoke to another representative in the office and made sure my message gets to the doctor today. I won't lie, I was a little nervous by the middle of the day Wednesday and very frustrated. I kept myself busy through-out the day so I didn't think about it.
At 6:30 PM on Wednesday 3/17/10 the phone rang and it was my Oncologist. He explained to me that all my test results came back great except for CA-125 which is the blood marker for ovarian cancer. He said the blood level was increased but just a little. The blood test can give a positive/false reading. He wasn't overly concern at this point. I explained that I have an appointment to get an ultrasound of my ovaries on March 29 and he said that was great that I already had the appointment. He said no need to move the test sooner. My curiosity wanted to know what causes the blood level to change. He mentioned it could be absolute nothing or perhaps it can be signs for endometriosis, inflammation, abnormal ovulation, viral infection, or gastroenteritis. He wants me to re-take the blood test in one month and inform him if there are any signs of abnormality with my ultrasound.
I spoke with him about what happened with the nurse. He was glad to get my input about his staff and felt it was important to know this information. He asked if I had his cell phone number which I do but I didn't want to panic and call him right away. If he didn't call me by late Wednesday, I would of called or text his cell phone. He is so nice and said at any time I need to talk with him that I should call his cell phone.
Thursday March 18, 2010 I called my OBGYN office to speak with a nurse. I wanted to find out the best time for a women to get an ultrasound of the ovaries. She explained to get the best readings would be with in 3-4 days after your menstrual cycle is completed.
I will keep everybody posted when I get my ultrasound done in a few weeks. I feel like nothing is wrong but I will never rule anything out! We need to live life to the fullest each day even thou some days are tough!!!
At 6:30 PM on Wednesday 3/17/10 the phone rang and it was my Oncologist. He explained to me that all my test results came back great except for CA-125 which is the blood marker for ovarian cancer. He said the blood level was increased but just a little. The blood test can give a positive/false reading. He wasn't overly concern at this point. I explained that I have an appointment to get an ultrasound of my ovaries on March 29 and he said that was great that I already had the appointment. He said no need to move the test sooner. My curiosity wanted to know what causes the blood level to change. He mentioned it could be absolute nothing or perhaps it can be signs for endometriosis, inflammation, abnormal ovulation, viral infection, or gastroenteritis. He wants me to re-take the blood test in one month and inform him if there are any signs of abnormality with my ultrasound.
I spoke with him about what happened with the nurse. He was glad to get my input about his staff and felt it was important to know this information. He asked if I had his cell phone number which I do but I didn't want to panic and call him right away. If he didn't call me by late Wednesday, I would of called or text his cell phone. He is so nice and said at any time I need to talk with him that I should call his cell phone.
Thursday March 18, 2010 I called my OBGYN office to speak with a nurse. I wanted to find out the best time for a women to get an ultrasound of the ovaries. She explained to get the best readings would be with in 3-4 days after your menstrual cycle is completed.
I will keep everybody posted when I get my ultrasound done in a few weeks. I feel like nothing is wrong but I will never rule anything out! We need to live life to the fullest each day even thou some days are tough!!!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Oncologist update
Wednesday March 3, 2010 I went for my six month follow up appointment with my Oncologist. During this visit we reviewed how I was feeling, reviewed my medical records, and answered questions that I had. I am doing great on the Tamoxifen besides time to time hot flashes. I am lucky not to have any side effects. I will remain on the medication for the next three years or until I go into menopause (might or might not happen). If this happens, then I will remain on medication for the next two years but on a different prescription and will have to get shots twice a year for bone density. We will cross that path when it is here. I decided to schedule an appointment for an ultrasound for my ovaries twice a year instead of once a year. I had no symptoms from my breast cancer and thank god the mammogram found it. I feel twice a year plus seeing my OBGYN once a year will be good medical follow up. The doctor has attended medical conferences and the outcome from Tamoxifen has shown great progress/outcomes to stop the cancer cells from re- occurring or building new cells for breast and ovarian cancer. He also has heard if the women is under 40 and you are not having any problems with your ovaries then they shouldn't be removed. A women needs estrogen for certain criteria in her body and we have them for a reason. My Oncologist and I felt that I don't need to see the radiation doctor in May for my one year check up. I don't have any skin irritation and I will be seeing my cancer specialist around the same time. He explained the doctors try to accommodate the patient as much as possible for all the check ups including paying co-pays each time for the visits.The genetic testing that I had done at the beginning of my treatment indicated that my results for the gene for breast cancer was inclusive. He explained the company from time to time might get results from a similar family situation and then they will update me with any new findings. He feels that we discovered the cancer in time and I have a great outcome that the cancer is gone with the removal of the breast, radiation, and an extra precaution by being on the Tamoxifen.
We decided to get an update on my blood work since its been six months from the last results. He explained that he likes to monitor the blood work but the medical association states its not necessary to follow up in cases like mine as often. I agreed to get the blood work done because I rather know if there are some concerns and get some medical help if needed before its too late. He explained that the blood work can give positiver/false readings which make some individuals upset. If this happens possibility a MRI, CAT scan or some other medical test probably will need to be performed. The blood work was to test my cbc count, comprehensive metabolic panel (13 different chemistry test), markers for breast cancer CA-127&129, markers for ovarian cancer CA-125, and my vitamin D level. He examined my lymph nodes in my throat and under my arm pits. He also performed an external exam and pushed around my ovaries for any abnormalities. I will see him in six months.
Friday March 5, 2010 I went and had my blood drawn. I should get my results by next week. Three and half vials were taken.
We decided to get an update on my blood work since its been six months from the last results. He explained that he likes to monitor the blood work but the medical association states its not necessary to follow up in cases like mine as often. I agreed to get the blood work done because I rather know if there are some concerns and get some medical help if needed before its too late. He explained that the blood work can give positiver/false readings which make some individuals upset. If this happens possibility a MRI, CAT scan or some other medical test probably will need to be performed. The blood work was to test my cbc count, comprehensive metabolic panel (13 different chemistry test), markers for breast cancer CA-127&129, markers for ovarian cancer CA-125, and my vitamin D level. He examined my lymph nodes in my throat and under my arm pits. He also performed an external exam and pushed around my ovaries for any abnormalities. I will see him in six months.
Friday March 5, 2010 I went and had my blood drawn. I should get my results by next week. Three and half vials were taken.
Monday, February 15, 2010
follow up visit with the plastic surgeon
I know it has been a few weeks that I didn't blog. I had to re-schedule my doctors appointment twice and then I just haven’t taken the time to post. Sorry for the delay. I am feeling great!!! The only thing that I notice is different since I am taking Tamoxifen is that my menstrual cycles are not exactly 30 days apart and now I am experiencing some cramps that I never did in the past.
I saw my plastic surgeon on February 4. I was following up to see how my nipples/scar were healing. The appointment went well. She said everything healed nicely. I still have my incision above the my c-section but that will take some time to heal. She said if I would like I can use Mederma to help the scarring. I was surprise that my nipples went down so much. They were so pointy after surgery that they seemed small now but she said that’s how their suppose to look. I guess you forget after awhile when you don't have them. I inquired about some hair growth around my areola which is a black color. She said I can puck the hair but it might take a few times to remove or even up to a year before the hair doesn't grow back. I also inquired about her opinion about getting my ovaries check. She mentioned since my Brac2 was undetermined that I should get a ultrasound twice a year. There is no data that you will get ovarian cancer if you had breast cancer but they are close related cancers. She feels that we have the ovaries for a reason and there is no urgency to remove them unless there is a problem. She mentioned that the doctor I saw in NY for a 4th opinion before my radiation was asking how I was doing and how my recovery was going. She will see him at a conference and will let him know. That’s amazing that he remembers me and I am touched that he asked.
My doctor mentioned that my areola was not as dark (reddish/pink) as she thought it would turn out. Since I have light complexion to begin with the blood vessels just didn't darken it as much. You can see a difference from my skin to the areola so it is a bit darker. She said if I would like to take a drive to her other office in Long Island, NY about (1 hour 1/2 away) that her Nurse Practitioner can tattoo the areola a darker color. She said the procedure would still be covered under the surgery since it was breast cancer. I would defiantly verify with insurance if I decide to do this. I know a few of you would say why would you do this procedure since no-one except your husband and you see them. Well tell you the truth I haven't made a decision but I haven't ruled it out. For myself getting the nipples on made me feel like a complete woman and I know I will be always be diagnose with breast cancer but this procedure made me feel as normal as I can be. I know all of you are saying ouch that is a sensitive area and it will hurt. Well if you remember this skin was removed from my bikini area so I wouldn’t have much sensation for this procedure. When I am touch around the nipple area I just feel a little pressure so wouldn't be much pain. I don't have a tattoo so I can't say how it feels but this is a different situation. The procedure would take a little over a hour. My doctor said she used to do the tattooing but she is just too busy with all the surgeries. I will let you know what I decide. She took some more pictures of my breasts for my files. I will follow up with her in 6 months.
My next appointment is with my Oncologist at the beginning of March. Hope all is well with everybody and talk soon.
I saw my plastic surgeon on February 4. I was following up to see how my nipples/scar were healing. The appointment went well. She said everything healed nicely. I still have my incision above the my c-section but that will take some time to heal. She said if I would like I can use Mederma to help the scarring. I was surprise that my nipples went down so much. They were so pointy after surgery that they seemed small now but she said that’s how their suppose to look. I guess you forget after awhile when you don't have them. I inquired about some hair growth around my areola which is a black color. She said I can puck the hair but it might take a few times to remove or even up to a year before the hair doesn't grow back. I also inquired about her opinion about getting my ovaries check. She mentioned since my Brac2 was undetermined that I should get a ultrasound twice a year. There is no data that you will get ovarian cancer if you had breast cancer but they are close related cancers. She feels that we have the ovaries for a reason and there is no urgency to remove them unless there is a problem. She mentioned that the doctor I saw in NY for a 4th opinion before my radiation was asking how I was doing and how my recovery was going. She will see him at a conference and will let him know. That’s amazing that he remembers me and I am touched that he asked.
My doctor mentioned that my areola was not as dark (reddish/pink) as she thought it would turn out. Since I have light complexion to begin with the blood vessels just didn't darken it as much. You can see a difference from my skin to the areola so it is a bit darker. She said if I would like to take a drive to her other office in Long Island, NY about (1 hour 1/2 away) that her Nurse Practitioner can tattoo the areola a darker color. She said the procedure would still be covered under the surgery since it was breast cancer. I would defiantly verify with insurance if I decide to do this. I know a few of you would say why would you do this procedure since no-one except your husband and you see them. Well tell you the truth I haven't made a decision but I haven't ruled it out. For myself getting the nipples on made me feel like a complete woman and I know I will be always be diagnose with breast cancer but this procedure made me feel as normal as I can be. I know all of you are saying ouch that is a sensitive area and it will hurt. Well if you remember this skin was removed from my bikini area so I wouldn’t have much sensation for this procedure. When I am touch around the nipple area I just feel a little pressure so wouldn't be much pain. I don't have a tattoo so I can't say how it feels but this is a different situation. The procedure would take a little over a hour. My doctor said she used to do the tattooing but she is just too busy with all the surgeries. I will let you know what I decide. She took some more pictures of my breasts for my files. I will follow up with her in 6 months.
My next appointment is with my Oncologist at the beginning of March. Hope all is well with everybody and talk soon.
Friday, January 8, 2010
One Year Cancer Free!!!!!!
Yesterday January 7, 2010 was a year from when I had my cancer removed. I am a one year survivor and many more years to come! YIPEE It was a hectic year. The surgery is behind me but the follow up appointments and staying on top of my medical will be my new challenges. There were times that this journey seemed like it wasn't real and it was a big mix up or a dream.
I wouldn't let this cancer take me down and that’s how I got through it. I would focus on each step of my process and fight as hard as I could to get to the next step. I look back and I do have to say, I am surprise I wasn't more emotional at times. Believe me, I was emotional but I think I needed to be strong so my body can remove this awful disease and work through the bad moments.
Unfortunately since I had my surgery, I have found out that a few friends had a biopsy or going through breast cancer. Each of us have different circumstances but I think it is good for me to talk and share my experiences or direct them to my blog. I wish for a quick and healthy recovery for all.
My life has change forever. We recently looked into health insurance options and cancer is consider a pre-existing condition so I do now feel that I have a label on me. I didn't commit a crime or choose to have cancer. We do have health insurance and will continue to have coverage through Gene's work but makes me wonder for the future. Will the president get the law passed so individuals can't be denied of pre-existing conditions, what will happened if we need to get new insurance in the future. I will express my opinion if needed for the new law not to pass for mammograms not to be preformed until age 40. It saved my life and I want others to be saved! I can't stress on issues that aren't a problem at this time but it makes me wonder. No matter what happens, I will continue to see all my doctors and make sure my health is good.
I will follow up with my blog in a few weeks after my two month follow appointment with my plastic surgeon.
I wouldn't let this cancer take me down and that’s how I got through it. I would focus on each step of my process and fight as hard as I could to get to the next step. I look back and I do have to say, I am surprise I wasn't more emotional at times. Believe me, I was emotional but I think I needed to be strong so my body can remove this awful disease and work through the bad moments.
Unfortunately since I had my surgery, I have found out that a few friends had a biopsy or going through breast cancer. Each of us have different circumstances but I think it is good for me to talk and share my experiences or direct them to my blog. I wish for a quick and healthy recovery for all.
My life has change forever. We recently looked into health insurance options and cancer is consider a pre-existing condition so I do now feel that I have a label on me. I didn't commit a crime or choose to have cancer. We do have health insurance and will continue to have coverage through Gene's work but makes me wonder for the future. Will the president get the law passed so individuals can't be denied of pre-existing conditions, what will happened if we need to get new insurance in the future. I will express my opinion if needed for the new law not to pass for mammograms not to be preformed until age 40. It saved my life and I want others to be saved! I can't stress on issues that aren't a problem at this time but it makes me wonder. No matter what happens, I will continue to see all my doctors and make sure my health is good.
I will follow up with my blog in a few weeks after my two month follow appointment with my plastic surgeon.
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