Great News!!!

Great News!

My surgeon's PA called me on Friday the 13th and informed me that my pathology reports had come in. The report could not have been any better! The report stated that there were no remaining cancer cells in my tumor or lymph nodes. My body had responded the exact way it was suppose to the chemo, and the chemo had melted the cancer away like butter! What a relief!!! On Wednesday, June 18th my mom, Brian, and I all went back to MD Anderson in Houston for more appointments and for the surgeons to review my incisions. They were very pleased at how my incisions were healing, and pleased with the little pain I am having. I really have not been in much pain. Every once in awhile I do feel the sharp pains, from the tissue regenerating back together, but that is expected.

On Wednesday, we also had our first consultation with the radiation doctor and met with the oncologist for the 1st time at MD Anderson. It was determined that I would complete my radiation simulation (during this appointment a mold is created exactly to my body so that the radiation beam lines up in the exact same position for each treatment) on July 10th, and begin my first week of radiation treatment on July 14th. The doctor confirmed that I would receive 6 full weeks of radiation, which would be completed Monday - Friday every week. The doctor informed me that the primary side effect of radiation is being tired, and I may need frequent naps during treatment and up to a month afterwards. They also informed me of the possible burning side effects I could encounter, like a sunburn.

The oncologist confirmed that I would need 5 more treatments of Perjeta and Herceptin, which will be received every 3rd week. Then I would continue receiving Herceptin every 3rd week until the 1st of December. Additionally, the oncologist informed me that a week following the completion of radiation, I would then begin taking Tamoxifen. She stated that I would have to take this pill for 10 full years.

From this point forward I will complete all treatments at MD Anderson in Houston. What a journey this has been!