Wednesday, October 26, 2016

My Breast Cancer Update: 14 weeks Post Chemo

Remission + Turning 40

Hello all! It's been a long time since I have posted my progress. I had 2 follow-up doctors appointments; one with my breast cancer surgeon, and the other with my cosmetic surgeon. Both went well. I'm healing nicely and continuously regaining energy. I think I'm finally ready to exit the rollercoaster ride... Time for some smooth sailing. 

As of August 19th, my oncologist officially labeled me "in remission." I started taking Tamoxifen that same day, and the aim is to continue taking it for 5 years. I have experienced leg aches and pains, especially first thing in the morning and after sitting for a long periods of time. While not enjoyable, the minor side effects are manageable. Movement alleviates the discomfort, so I try to stay active.

In addition to finishing chemo treatments and finding my new normal... I turned 40! To be honest, I was super bummed at the time of my birthday. The hair on my head was patchy, my eyebrows and eyelashes were nonexistent, and I was feeling crappy and not much like celebrating. I had envisioned a fun party, or trip with friends and family... but I just wasn't up for it. I flip flopped back and forth on what I wanted to do. I had a melt down and decided that I didn't want to do much of anything. Poor husband had to put up with me crying and whining over how I was feeling about how I looked.

Approximately two days after my major meltdown, I must have werewolfed overnight. My eyebrows grew back with a vengeance, and I have had two haircuts since then. I'm feeling and looking more like myself these days, and truly feel lucky to be in remission. To anyone feeling the same despair that I was feeling, please give yourself time.

So, in celebration of my 40th year, I have created a National Breast Cancer Foundation fundraising page. My goal is to raise $400 by December 1, 2016. Please visit my fundraising page.

And if I may end with a bit of advice... If you feel something different with your body, get it checked out as soon as you can.