Chemo Day#2, Wednesday, February 16, 2022

Good afternoon. Today as I was walking in to the medical oncologist office and the “Rocky” theme was playing in my head. Over the last few weeks, I have been blessed with many cards, home cooked meals, gift cards for meals and groceries and loving messages from friends and family. I can literally “feel” your prayers as God reassures me, He’s got me! I can hear the music playing in my head when you message me, send a note, give a hug and wear pink. Thank you for your love and support in this difficult time. Wednesday will likely be chemo days for a while so that’s when I have time to post and give thanks to God.

As I write this post, I am in the chemo chair getting my chemo treatment for the week. (This is day 2 of 12 treatments. ) The doctor added another steroid as I was getting some reaction to the main chemo drug and I was able to continue my protocol. I still have another hour left at 3:00 but at least I was able to progress today. I’m thankful for the doctors, PA’s, nurses, medications and chemo buddies to share the journey. I’ve met many ladies going through treatment and I appreciate them taking time to share their stories, strength and hope. Many treatments, medications and therapies are out there to help with symptoms so it’s helpful to hear from others who have been through breast cancer. It helps me feel like I’m fighting the good fight with angels cheering me on!

I was speaking to a friend today and remembered it’s time for another public service announcement concerning regular mammograms. My breast cancer was found through a regular, yearly 3-D mammogram and I had just been to the gynecologist for my annual exam. I didn’t feel it, my doctor didn’t feel it and even after the biopsy, ultrasound and diagnosis, my surgeon couldn’t even feel it though it showed up on the scans. The tumor was deep, small and would not have been caught so early without the current mammogram technology. Please, please, please get your regular annual mammograms as recommended. My medical oncologist said if I had not gone for my mammogram and they didn’t detect it when they did, it would likely have grown, spread to the lymph nodes and progressed to Stage 3 or 4. Gals, I’m 49 and I have breast cancer. It happens to the best of us and it can be treated. Don’t let your fear of the unknown paralyze you into inactivity. My God, your God, is stronger than breast cancer! I’m here for you and I’ve been to appointments for benign tumors and now malignant tumors also. They both stink and it’s no fun being prodded and poked. However, it’s better than not being here for my family and friends so I choose to be brave, live, love and laugh often.

Have a great Wednesday and please remember to pray for me often. Prayers for sustained energy, good health and positive outlook. In the next week I will likely cut my hair and round 3 is next Wednesday, 2/23/22. Also, please write a message or favorite bible verse on my blog if you have time. Thanks! ~Tamela