March 19, 2013, my primary physician called to tell me my most recent breast exam and follow up revealed cancer. On Sept 4, I will have completed my 16 weeks of chemo, and on Sept 5, I start radiation with what they call a “simulation” in which they take measurements and figure out how to dodge my pacemaker, lungs and heart in order to “hit” the left breast cancer spot. That left side has caused problems with the pacemaker and heart. So far, so good. I expect to be finished with radiation five-days a week for six weeks on Oct 11. Dr. Fairbanks, the radiologist, explained that although the cancer was found early, we started treatment immediately with surgery > chemo > radiation, because one is a very aggressive form of cancer, the other is just an ordinary cancer. That will be seven months of living, eating, breathing, thinking, paying attention to my cancer. The bad part of all this is the nausea, diarrhea, unknown and unfamiliar procedures. The good part is I have experienced no pain caused by needles, knives, and awkward positions on strange pieces of equipment. No pain whatsoever! My teams began to form at once, the family rallied in ways beyond my reasonable expectations even joining in a “shave Joan’s head party”, my medical team works together in a seamless flow of coordinated appointments and procedures, my neighbor team rallied and offers assistance, good wishes, and shared stories, my friends team rose to the occasion sharing their expertise in nursing, social services, mental health processes, and of course, my Atheist Nexus virtual team generously give encouragement, share histories, and funny thoughts. In the Chemo Room, I’ve observed loved ones holding emesis basins as patients wretched, people just starting treatment with eyes revealing fear and anxiety, others finish treatment and they get a big group cheer as we send them on their ways, and I observe people who are alone, look lonely and afraid. My daughter and granddaughters reach out to them in the most loving, compassionate ways to bring them beverages or snacks or blankets and encouragement. Life offers many opportunities to confront challenges with courage, intelligence, and determination. I expect to overcome this cancer challenge. I still have the fighter characteristic that seems to be so necessary for making life healthy, happy, peaceful, even as the warrior in me remains. Joan Denoo, 2013-08-10
Posted on: Sat, 10 Aug 2013 14:59:27 +0000
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