Hi again!

Just wanted to give you an update of my Monday visits to Loyola. I have only 2 more radiation treatments to go. Two steps forward and one step back, however. I was unable to get my herceptin due to the results of my heart test. I knew this drug could have an effect on the heart but of course never thought it would happen to me!! I was told this does happen occasionally and it can reverse itself. In that case I can go back on the herceptin. I am praying for that and ask you to do so too. This relatively new drug has had excellent results in lowering chances of the cancer returning.

So I now get to go to another specialist. I will have an EKG on Thursday and see a cardiologist on Tuesday. Then Dr. Albain will reevaluate the results and we'll see what's next. She told me that she is pleased with the amount of herceptin that I've already been given. I told the girls at the chemo scheduling desk that at first I didn't want to go in and I had to. Now I want to come in for treatment and they won't let me. What's with that!!

I'm getting together with my friends from high school this weekend. Our last weekend gathering was the week after my original surgery last April. So much has happened since then! It will be great to see them.

I'll let you know when I find out more. I will still be celebrating the end of chemo and radiation!

Take Care,

Karen

Happy March!

It was so good to see the sunshine this week. I'm looking forward to spring!

I only have four treatments of radiation left. Hooray!!! My description for these last few days is OUCH! Burning and peeling on skin that isn't used to the sun just plain hurts. Thankfully, I planned on it being much worse after that infection experience. The packing part is still unpleasant, but it is done quickly. You could say that I am "hot" at this point (literally, of course)!

I love the hair growing back on my head, even though it looks to be salt and pepper. Not so happy about the leg and upper lip hair returning, however. You just don't think about some of the perks until they are over! Sorry if that's too much information.

It was one year ago this weekend that I found that unexpected lump. I can't believe a year has gone by and I've been through so much. My incredible support system of family, friends and medical staff have been such a blessing. God is good!!!

I meet with my oncologist on Monday and radiologist on Tuesday. I will let you know what they say about follow-up procedures and where I am medically at this point.

What a journey!

Karen