I am sorry its been a while since the last post. I had some technical difficulties getting online, but we figured out things at the Beehive and I am good to go...
I did write out a whole new post in Word , which I still need to continue and send soon. For now, I will just post a quick update with some news.
It has been confirmed that I have Stage II Non-Hodgkin's Primary Mediastinal Lymphoma. A very rare case of the Diffuse B Cell lymphomas. It is "contained" which is good, and very treatable. It is still pressing against my heart which is of concern - however with the treatment it will reduce that pressure. Relatively speaking, this is a 'good' thing, that I have caught it so early; especially since this is a fast growing cancer. It probably just started within the last 6 months....so I am thankful. Word of advice: "Bumps are bad"! Do not ignore them, if you have a bump get it checked out as soon as possible. You just never know. I didn't think mine was anything, however I am super happy that I had it looked at anyways.
Today and since, Monday November 12th - after my first treatment, I have already had some relief. I am no longer constantly coughing with a dry cough; it has died down significantly. Also, the bump on my clavicle has also dwindled away. Not completely, but it is so small in comparison to before the treatment.
I went and saw the radiologist regarding radiation at the end of chemo. I believe I am going to go forward with that just to make sure that we get rid of any leftovers. :P More details to come on that...
Overall, I have had some but not major side effects. I am happy to say that I don't have crazy nausea. I do have a constant headache and sinus pressure in my eyes, ears, nose, head...Also, I have major lightheadedness about 2 times a days right now. Its enough to make me have to sit down and get my barrings. This is probably my body saying "you will eventually need to take naps during the day".
I am staying positive and hopeful. I am very (not so happily) anxious about my hair falling out - it has kept me up at night. I am on day 10 - and they say it should start to fall day 14. We shall see.... (poop)
I have a wig (THANK YOU PAM AND STEVE!!!!) and it looks very similar to my own hair.
I have lots of hats and scarfs (THANK YOU PAM and GIS TEAM!)
I have a friend set up to cut my hair once I see that it is falling out. At the beginning of this, I had already decided that I will donate my hair (the non-bleached hair) to LOCKS of LOVE. I think it is something I can do for a little one, that is dealing with the same thing I am. I don't want my hair to go away, but since it is virtually inevitable - at least I will not just be throwing it away. I will be giving it to someone in need, and I just love that idea.
Here's a silly pic of my wig....
Lots of love to all. Thank you for your constant support and love. I am truly blessed.
Bee
It looks like your normal hair!! :)
ReplyDeleteYou are amazing, friend! I love your positive attitude. Praying God's peace and blessing upon you! Love YOU!
ReplyDeleteI would not even believe that is a wig Barbara! I just caught up on all your postings and have learned a lot from you in many ways. Ttys. -Amanda
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