MEDICAL UPDATE: 6
RADIATION THERAPY
After a brief consult and exam with my radiation oncologist, a simulation was completed on April 10. A mold was created while I was lying still with my hands above my head. This mold will be used every time I have radiation to ensure that I am in the same exact position. I had to lie down and let the radiation therapists position me. Initially I was lying on an inflated pillow, but once I was in the best position, the air was vacuumed out of the pillow and the mold formed around me, becoming firm. Then, a CT scan was completed, photographs were taken, calculations and measurements were collected and analyzed. The goal is to only treat what is necessary while still achieving the most comprehensive coverage.
Total of 21 treatments: Whole breast radiation for 16 rounds; targeted radiation at tumor site for 5 rounds
Treatment begins April 18 with a tentative end date of May 16. I go in daily, Monday thru Friday.
After round 16, another CT scan will be done to pinpoint the targeted radiation. At the time of the simulation, I still had a lot of fluid in the cavity where the tumor used to be, and this fluid is expected (hopefully) to gradually dissipate.
RECOVERY
Stitches healed well
Persistent lump under my right arm just above the incision. The fluid stuck here should gradually dissipate.
Tightness on the inside of my upper arm and in the armpit. I continue to do stretching exercises.
Occasional vertigo, complicated by bradycardia (low heart rate) and low blood pressure. Movement and exercise help, although it seems counter-intuitive.
Energy level was almost back to normal by April 17.
ONCOLOGY
Met with my medical oncologist on April 5 to discuss hormone therapy.
My type of cancer is estrogen receptor positive. That means my cancer uses estrogen to grow.
Letrozole (Femara) is an aromatase inhibitor. It reduces the amount of estrogen in my body. It is given to post-menopausal women with breast cancer. I will begin taking this a few days after completing RT. I will take this for five years.
Potential side effects include typical menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, insomnia), joint pain, depression, fatigue, osteoporosis.
Future screening
Annual mammograms will continue starting in January 2024
Some studies recommend an annual breast MRI, done six months after my annual mammogram
Bone density scan is scheduled for April 20
PRAYER REQUESTS
For perseverance in driving to daily radiation therapy appointments
For protection from severe side effects
Praise for my amazing, caring, organized, proactive and talented care team
For my friend, C., who recently was diagnosed with the same cancer as mine and will undergo a double mastectomy on April 27
For motivation to go for walks even if I’m feeling fatigued
