This afternoon we went to see Dr Alexander, my consultant oncologist and once again she was very happy with my progress.
You may remember me talking before about the tumour markers in my blood that indicate the level of growth/activity. On May 14th this year, my initial blood test had the marker level at 171.2, it has been dropping throughout my treatment and the latest test on August 7th had it at 57.2. To put some context around it, the top of the ‘normal’ scale is 35 so we have really made a load of progress 🙂
I also have my prescription request for Tamoxifen, the hormone suppressant which I will start taking 3 weeks after my final chemotherapy session which is Monday (August 31st). The type of breast cancer I have feeds on oestrogen so suppressing its production should prevent the tumours from growing again now that the chemotherapy has given them the initial beating.
The CT scan on September 19th will check that there has been no more growth to the tumours in my liver and then at our meeting with Dr Alexander on September 30th we will discuss in more detail the on-going monitoring and containment schedule.
There it is – we have a plan for the transition into phase 2. This makes me feel good, as you know, I like to have a plan!
Dr Alexander wasn’t at all surprised that I had been feeling exhausted this time, she said it’s a lot for your body to be dealing with. I also had a chat with Pat, my Red Arc nurse this morning who said the same thing so in a strange way, I feel better about that too, as if they have reassured me that it was ok to feel a bit battered for a few days. I must remember this and if I start to feel low again, I can give Pat a call for reassurance. Right at the beginning of this situation, my boss Duncan said to me ‘make sure that you ask for help if you need it’ and ‘it’s ok to ask for help to get through this, you may well need it’. I hadn’t realised how self-sufficient I am inclined to be but I can see it now and he was absolutely right (of course!).
I also had a visit from my friend, ex-colleague and current Zumba instructor Sarah of the now legendary ChowZumba! I haven’t been to Zumba since my treatment started but she brought my new vest with her which I am really looking forward to getting sparkly as soon as my treatment is over and my strength back.
Talk to you soon
Lots of love Mand xxx
What fantastic news, that number is dropping well. Can’t believe we still haven’t seen you, do drop in whenever you’re our way, however I go back to work next week. If you’re up to a visit or need some courgettes, just let me know I’ll head over :o) I keep losing your blog but have asked for notifications when you post this time to make sure I keep up to date. Thinking of you lots and thrilled to see you’re being so positive. I have a friend who, like you was extremely positive and sent it packing, I’m out for the day with her on Thursday! Liz xxx
Excellent news Mand and your boss sounds like a very wise man.
Rest well this weekend xxx
Well, our darling girl. We couldn’t be more thrilled with the news. How wonderful to have a plan too. Those unicorns must have been working overtime! Enjoy your weekend, eat well, rest well and be in pole position for the FINAL treatment on Monday.
Take care
Love you xxx
That is brilliant news, only one more to go. Get the glory ready, it’s time for the final push. xxx
Wow! Amazing news keep the faith. You been so brave, Mand. Sending you hugs & kisses from Whitby. K&P xx
So glad you like the picture of Girl & unicorn from Whitby. Your mum & Rich came round to us for a nosh & a brief catch up! Lovely to spend time with them before they jetted off. Hope all is well for you. xx K xx☀️??❤️
What fantastic news, you have done so so well, round up those Unicorns for the final push on Monday, good luck and best wishes love from Di xxx