Round 5

Prior to each round of chemo, I meet with my doctor for blood work to make sure my blood counts are up to par for chemo. I had asked him last week to check my hormone levels in the hopes of finding out why I was having such wicked hot flashes.  My theory was confirmed-Hello Menopause!!  He then proceeded to tell me, with a dead pan look on his face, that I was a man! Lindsey and my niece were with me and we proceeded to crack up! I told him I didn't think that Craig would be happy with the news! LOL

Off to chemo we went after being kept waiting for awhile in the "waiting room".  I donned my Santa hat (you all know I love to dress up) to get in the spirit and settled in for the next three hours. Danielle and Theresa were my nurses again. They are okay but I still miss Katie. :( Thank goodness Ellen Degeneres is always on while I'm there-she never fails to put a smile on my face and make me smile! The morning was uneventful, although Lindsey did not like one of the nurses attitude or demeanor-specifically the expression on her face.  In her opinion, and of course I agree, chemo nurses should be extra nice and friendly.

Today, after being kept waiting again, I got lucky and had Karen as my nurse. I have never had her before but she was great. She asked me to get on the scale which was never asked of me before. I told her that it was the first time any of the nurses weighed me before chemo and she seemed surprised. "How else would we know what dosage to give you?" Makes sense, don't you think? Once again, I donned my Santa hat and got ready for the "Red Devil" drug. Karen said she preferred my other name for the drug-"Hawaiian Punch". She said the drug was my friend and the cancer was the enemy. Very true! Maybe I should call it "Red Angel"!

At home now resting, relieved that there is only one more round to go, surrounded by my beautiful holiday decorations, I am looking forward to having a wonderful Christmas with my family. It will be truly joyous!

God Bless My Friends

I know that I have thanked my friends many times over via facebook, phone calls and emails but I honestly feel that I have to give a shout out to one and all on my blog. In Fran's World, I know that a lot of my positivity and hope come from all of you. Knowing that I have all of you in my corner along with my amazing family-praying for me and cheering me and most importantly making me laugh and smile has made a tremendous difference in my life. I am truly blessed beyond belief! My life has forever been changed by each and every one of you and I hope that in some small way I have changed your lives too!

MWAH!!!!!  I love you all!  XOXOXOXO

Side Effects

I have to say I have been pretty lucky so far. My side effects have really been minimal and basically normal. Other than getting so sick after Round 2, I haven't felt too bad at all. Strange new things started happening, though, after Round 4.

Water retention and swelling in my hands in feet for 2 days was no fun. The hot flashes showed up too! Honestly, they are brutal. The sweat just pours out of me. It's as if it comes all the way from my toes and comes out of the top of my bald head like Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park. It's kind of awkward when you feel like taking every piece of clothing off while in a public place, such as the mall! Mouth sores decided to show up last week, too. Not too bad unless you want to eat or drink. Thank goodness they are gone!

When I asked the doctor about each symptom-prednisone is always to blame. It's amazing how you can be on a drug for 5 days but the symptoms last so much longer! As for the hot flashes, I had my hormones checked and found out that I am going through menopause most likely brought on by chemo. Yippee and Oh Joy!

I have been told by many cancer survivors and have read in books that the side effects are cumulative. With two more treatments to go, I am remaining positive and optimistic that it will be tolerable. "Faith over Fear" will continue to be my mantra! I am also adding "NeverBack Down" in honor of my college friend Bart and his son Alex.Alex is a high schooler and in a coma fighting for his life after a tragic car accident. I know for sure that all of your prayers have worked for me so I'm asking everyone who follows my blog to say a prayer for Alex.

On Loss

Losing a friend is never easy and unfortunately,  I have lost too many. Last week, I lost my newest friend, Alison Arneson Cowan.

I was actually introduced to Ali by a mutual friend, Marianne, via Facebook. Marianne thought we should meet as we were both in the fight! Ali's started last January and although they thought she was going to die back then, she fought and fought and was a pillar of strength and hope.

We chatted on Facebook and she would send me words of inspiration as well as a multitude of tips on what to eat and drink. Always upbeat, always optimistic, always smiling!!!

Two weeks ago, Craig took me for my weekly blood work and on line in front of me at registration was Ali. I knew her immediately from behind-tall, statuesque with little sprouts of red hair. I said, "Alison" and she turned around with a big huge smile and said, "Fran. I knew we would finally meet one day!" We hugged, a great big hug, and introduced our husbands to each other. It was as if we had always known each other.  We only had a few minutes together and then I was called back. We said goodbye and that was it.

A week later, Ali found out her cancer had spread to her liver. She posted on Facebook that she had to go into the hospital and that she was putting her faith in the Christ. She was hopeful but closed with, "I hate hospitals!" Ali never came home.

Ali's service was Thursday and it was beautiful! The church was full with the many, many people whose lives were touched by her. As Marianne's husband, Graham, played his beautiful song for Ali on his guitar, I took great comfort in knowing that Ali was finally home.

Ali has touched me deeply and forever and I will continue to fight with the class, dignity and valor that she so courageously did.  I know that she will continue to show me the way.

God Bless You, Ali.

On Patient Service

It's been while since I posted. Tis the Season, right? Although I have been busy getting ready for the holiday, I have a lot on my mind. Top of the list- Patient Service.

Being a part of the hospitality business for the last 30 years has kept our family in tune with what good and bad service is. Since I have become sick, I have experienced the good and bad sides of patient service. Call me crazy but when you are dealing with people who are fighting for their lives I firmly believe you should be bending over backwards to give good service and make them as comfortable as possible.

I left my first oncologist because of her staff-some were rude and belligerent-and they couldn't keep track of my blood work. Not a good sign, in my opinion.

I have been told by many friends who have fought cancer and those who are in the fight with me, that if you have a question, call the doctor. That's what they're there for. Honestly, I haven't had much luck with that.  When I was sick as a dog after Round 2, we called the nurse. She did answer but still insisted that we come down to West Palm Beach for my shot.  We went down but no one seemed to be concerned enough to come check on me or call me later to see how I was doing. (Come to find out after Round 3, I could have driven to Palm Beach Gardens to get my shot. More on that later. . .)

I have called several times since then, including Thursday and today, Saturday. The nurse on Thursday said she would call me on Friday with an answer from the doctor. Guess what? Still waiting on that one. Today, the on-call doctor called me back but wasn't much help.

My doctor gave me his cell phone number, but when I called him and left a message a few weeks ago, he never called back. At my next office visit, he said he didn't get my message until 2 days later because he doesn't always have his phone on. Maybe I should call the service if it's an emergency.

Getting back to the shot-I chose after Round 4 to get my shot in the Gardens office. Instead of driving 30 minutes each way to get a shot which takes 2 minutes, It took 10 minutes each way. The office did not have the feel of the West Palm ward. No one to greet you in reception. I signed in and told the gentleman
behind the desk who I was and what I was there for. No reaction. The receptionist finally came in but never acknowledged me. They started to converse amongst themselves while the man put moisturizer up and down his arms and elbows, tucked his shirt in his pants and god knows what else.  Disgusting! If I hadn't offered to pay my co pay on the way out they would have never known the difference. No warm fuzzies at this place!

I just don't get it!!!! Where's the love and compassion?

Suffice it to say, I am not having a good day. I appreciate you letting me get this nonsense off my chest. Craig said I'm entitled to have a bad day and I guess this is the one.

Round 4

Round 4 was a go! Blood counts were good, so off we went to the chemo ward. Apparently, they were pretty busy so we waited for awhile to be called back. A charming older gentleman named Pepe  showed up and started playing the piano! Before you know it, Craig struck up a conversation with Pepe about music and Big Bands and they had a lot in common. What made Pepe so special besides his lovely music and sweet personality? He is a cancer patient who decided to entertain the rest of us even though he was tired. What an Angel!
Danielle was my nurse today but she was so busy she enlisted a very nice helper. All went smoothly and home we went.

Day 2- Different nurse today-Sheryl. Very soft spoken but very efficient and informative. I was alarmed when she showed up with the big syringe and it was blueish-purple not Hawaiian Punch Red. Apparently, my doctor did not inform me that there was a nationwide shortage on my main chemo drug! This was the replacement. Sheryl also administered it at an earlier time than usual but explained, when I asked (I ask a lot of questions) that she feels its better to get it before the rest of the fluids so that is truly gets flushed through the system. Sounded like a good theory to me. . .

The highlight of day 2 was that my favorite volunteer, Fran, was there. She only works on Wednesdays and since I usually go on Monday and Tuesday, I never get to see her. She has such a lovely spirit and is great company. It is definitely people like Fran that make going through chemo easier for the patients. What a blessing!

Chemo or No Chemo?

Unfortunately, the cold that I have been trying to fight off has hit with full force. Not the best thing to have when your daughter is home for Thanksgiving, and you really want to go to Black Friday and have some fun. I spent most of the weekend in the house trying to rest and get better. By Saturday, I knew I better call the doctor. Thank goodness for the Z Pak! The sore throat and itchy ears went away within a day. Sadly, the dry cough did not. Up half the night, I went today to make sure it wasn't anything worse. Blood work and a chest x ray later, all seems to be fine- clear lungs and pretty good blood counts. It's all in the hands of my oncologist, Dr. Schwartz, now. He'll make the final call tomorrow morning. Keep your fingers, toes and eyes crossed that all goes well.

My Birthday Week

As I mentioned in my last post, I just had a birthday.  Not only did I get amazing news, but Craig flew Bryan home to surprise me right before the big day. He is the Best Husband EVER!!!) I knew there was a surprise but wasn't really sure what it was. I knew it would be coming soon because Craig told me he was going to Home Depot (we even made a list) but then went to take a shower! As my friend Sue says, "Who takes a shower to go to Home Depot! I was just telling her on the phone that I was hoping the surprise would be Bryan when the door opened and in he walked!! Of course, I started to cry tears of joy! My boy was home! We had a great time together-Breakers Brunch and Beach, shopping, movies. . .

The Ladies

Next up, my birthday buddy Donna came to Florida to celebrate our 51st birthdays together.  It's kind of an annual thing. It meant a lot that she was here for the scan and the great news that the growths were disappearing!! Time to celebrate with lunch, shopping and  Ladies Night Out at PGA National. What a fun night made even more special because a portion of the proceeds were going to "Be A Star"- a charity for children with cancer. It was my pleasure to meet Daisy, an almost 12 year old that was diagnosed with Leukemia when she was 4 and is now in remission. She is an inspiration as well as a true hero!.

I finally made it to the famous wig shop that everyone told me to go to. Carol, a fellow Scorpio, found the perfect wig for me. I look like me again! What a treat! All of the little kids that live on my street love it because "You like like you again, Mrs. Martin." Even little Josh, who lives next door, said, "Nice wig, Mrs. Martin!" They crack me up. I have to say, though, I really don't mind being bald. It's just so easy. . . and sometimes breezy! :)

In closing, I want to thank everyone for the birthday wishes. Between Facebook and postal service, I received more birthday wishes than I could have ever imagined! I am so thankful to all of you for being there for me. I feel so loved!

Best Birthday Present Ever

Crazy as it may seem, I decided to have my mid-way cat scan done on my birthday, which was yesterday. I figured it would bring me good luck. . . and it did!!!! The Doctor just called and told me that the growths have shrunk. . . A LOT!!!  The treatment is working!!!! I am so ecstatic and can not stop crying tears of
joy!

My treatments will continue-there are 3 more to go. We are going to annihilate this thing! Then, I will be on a maintenance program for two years! No problem- I am in it to win it!!!

I Will Survive!!

Top 10 Reasons Being Bald Rocks

10. Topless tanning.
9. No hair in your soup. Or anywhere else for that matter.
8. No haircuts, no shampoo, no styling-can you say low maintenance.
7. No Lice. EWWW
6. When on the run from the police, you can hide out in the melon section of the grocery store.
5. Magic Marker skull tattoos.
4. On really hot nights, a cool satin pillowcase is better than sex.
3.Low maintenance= more time on your hands=higher blood counts.
2. You can join the Bald Hall of Fame.
1. Aerodynamics, baby!

Thank you the Wall Street Journal for printing this and my friend Roger for sending it to me.

Round 3 is Now Behind Me!

I can't believe it! As Bon Jovi says, "Whoa, I'm halfway there. Whoa, Living on a prayer." I feel I have to change the words a little and say that I am living on each and every one of your prayers. The love and inspiration that I have received from my friends and family, near and far, have helped me so much in maintaining my positive outlook and attitude. So, THANK YOU ALL! XOXO

Katie

Now for the update: We went back to a 2 day regimen of chemo in an attempt to keep me from getting so sick. Both of my nurses were great but I am still partial to Katie and I was lucky enough to have her as my angel yesterday! She gave me a big hug, rubbed my fuzzy head, made a wish and hooked me up with the strong stuff. Her positivity and sage advice is amazing!! She always sends me home feeling great!

Craig said I am like a "pop star" there, but, I told him "I am a Rock Star!" (That's what Katie says!)

The great news is that the plan worked-I did not get sick at all this time!  I was able to eat, go to the doctor to get my shot, and even do a little shopping with my buddy Sue. It was a very good day!

I Believe

I have received so many cards from so many wonderful people and I'd like to thank each and every one of you for your love and inspirational words. You have no idea how much every single note, e-mail and facebook post means to me. The support you continue to send my way with prayers and hugs and phone calls are truly like oxygen to me. They help me feed my positive attitude and become the "Cancer Vixen" that one card depicted. As another card said, "There is a circle of caring all around. . . and I am right in the middle." What a wonderful place to be!

As I get ready for my third round of chemo tomorrow, I will close with the words from the card Lindsey gave me today:

I believe. I believe in mind over matter. I believe in the human spirit to prevail. I believe in miracles and blessings, both great and small. I believe in possibilities. I believe that hurdles in life are meant to be jumped over, not as something to stop us. I Believe.

What's been happening?

I suppose everyone has been wondering what has been happening in my life since my last post. Well, as you know,  Halloween has come and gone. Most of my friends know that I love Halloween. Four years ago, I started carving pumpkins with my friends Cindy and Aref's children. I didn't set it up this year because I didn't know if I was up to it. Saturday morning I got a phone call from Costa, (he is in fourth grade) and he said, "Hi, Fran. This is Costa. I was wondering if you would like to carve a pumpkin with me today?" He made my day! I was so touched. I think the joy shows on both of our faces!

I have always loved to dress up and become someone new for awhile. My students at school look forward to trick or treating at my house each year because they never know who they are going to find at the door. As my facebook friends know, I chose someone who represents my present battle (as well as my friend Darcy's battle) - GI Jane! (one more way for me to embrace the baldness!) This costume truly embodies my spirit-I am in it to win it!!!

The Wig

I finally made it to the salon to have my wig fitted, driven there by my dear friend Sue. (still too weak to drive). I was excited about getting out off the couch and out of the house. Mario put the wig on my head and I looked almost like Cousin It!!! It was quite long but that was the way I ordered it. I wanted Amelia to have working room for the cut. Off to the styling chair I went so Amelia could work her magic. With a lot of cutting and texturizing, Amelia turned me into what my neighbor's little girl said, "a movie star"! I wouldn't go that far but I felt great. It took me back to my 30's and 40's.  walked out with beautiful hair and a big smile on my face!
It has been so hot here that I ended up not wearing the wig for the next couple of days. I went out bald and proud! I just had the wig thinned out and cut a little bit shorter and I am ecstatic! Just one question-when people tell me how much younger I look, what does that mean? Was I looking old? LOL

Sick, Sick, Sick

After chemo, shaving my head and a delicious dinner with Craig, I was feeling good. OMG- False alarm-I woke up feeling sick and nauseous and it just got worse. Craig tried so hard to get me to eat and drink but nothing worked. Every smell set me off.  I listened to several meditation and visual imagery cd's which helped me relax and then came the continuous vomiting. Never have I been so sick in all my life. I was supposed to go for a shot to keep my white blood cell count up but we called Nurse Barbara and said I didn't think I could make it. She said to please try, so with a cold rag for my head and bag to get sick in (which I didn't, thank god) off we went. I had to go up in a wheelchair, I was so weak. I slept on the way home and as soon as I got in the house, I started getting sick again. I thought it would never end.  We thought I was going to have to go to the hospital for dehydration but both of my doctors said no-too many germs- keep taking the anti nausea medicine and see what happens tomorrow. Great idea if I could keep anything down. Thank goodness, right before I was ready to go to bed, it ended. And, thank you Craig, for being the best husband in the world! I know it was just as terrible for you. I love you more than I can say.

I hope the next session doesn't knock me on my ass like this one did!

P.S. Thank you to everyone who called and continues to call to check on me. I love you all!

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow

We arrived home from chemo and I was feeling great. Amelia, my awesome hairstylist and friend, along with Craig, Lisa Marie  and Sue by my side, I sat at my kitchen table and had Amelia start buzzing away my hair. She forgot to bring a cape, so I put on Lindsey's graduation robe so she could be a part of it too!

We started with a 2 (those of you that have boys know what that means) but bald spots were showing up so we went with a 0-all the way! Craig was photographing and videotaping, and Rae Rae just didn't get what was going on. I shed no tears and felt relieved when it was over. It certainly helped that everyone said I had a beautifully shaped head!

Round 2

Round 2 went a lot quicker than Round 1. It was one bag after another of powerful drugs dripping away with the final shot of red liquid to top it off. Craig and Lisa were by my side again. As my hair had starting falling out at a pretty quick pace, I decided to try on some hats that were on the volunteers cart. Wonderful people knit these hats and donate them to cancer patients. True Angels!!! They sent us on our merry way-to meet my friends for a head shaving party!

Here Comes Round 2

Well, here I am, a week later. The morning is not as pretty and I don't feel as pretty as I did last weekend either.  I know, I know, I have to stay positive but every once in awhile those nasty negative thoughts come creeping in. It is really the fear of the unknown and the fact that my hair is falling out pretty quickly, although I did get two compliments on my adorable hair cut last night. LOL

Round 2 of Chemo is tomorrow (as long as my bloodwork is ok) and I am a little nervous. Not of the process, that is easy. Sit in the chair for hours, with Craig by my side, and pass the day while the drugs drip in. It's how I will feel after? That is the question. I hate feeling sick, let alone getting sick. I know it's all part of the process but it's the part that sucks.  Sorry, I think I'm just crabby because I didn't sleep well last night.

On a more positive note, I had a great week. I continued to walk in the mornings and do whatever I want. I really haven't felt exhausted. On Thursday,  the "ladies" came over for a "happy hour" visit. They drank and I didn't. It was great seeing everyone and catching up. I miss being at school with my friends and those germy kids!

Another positive, my wig (aka hair appliance) came in the day after my hair started to fall. Perfect timing! I saw it the other day and it's beautiful. I can't wait to try it on and have it styled. Of course, I will document the entire experience with photos so stay tuned.

Thanks for checking in. I love you all!

Good Morning!

It's a beautiful morning here in Florida! Breezy and sunny and that's how I'm feeling.  I've had a very good week. I walk every morning with my precious little Rae Rae and she is loving it as much as I am! I run some errands in the morning and then come home to the safety of my home to relax and enjoy the rest of the day. I don't feel as tired as the doctor predicted so I am happy about that. I also still have my hair, and of course, am happy about that! I told my darling, sweet, funny son Bryan, "maybe because we are so hairy, it wants to hang on and be stubborn like we are!!" It never hurts to dream. . .
I have received so many beautiful cards and  written words from friends that have touched my heart and deep into my soul.  I thank all of you for lifting me up, especially my friend Kyle for the beautiful picture, which is now hanging on my refrigerator!  I love each and every one of you more than I can ever express. I have been truly blessed!!!
Enjoy this, and every single day that comes your way.
XO

Family and Friends

What a week it's been! From Chemo on Monday until this very moment, I have been surrounded with the love of my family and friends, along with an unfathomable amount of prayers! With only several rough patches and weird sensations in my body, I feel happy. I had friends visit and call and bring me delicious food-and I have been pretty hungry lately. My precious Lindsey came home from college to hangout with me and we even went to the mall! I celebrated my 27th wedding anniversary exactly the way I wanted to- with my loves, Craig and Lindsey (and Bryan in my heart and on my mind) and with my precious friends at dinner and a movie. And today, a glorious day, ended at the beach at sunset and yet another yummy dinner! I don't know what to expect tomorrow but as I look at my daughter sleeping next to me, I feel at peace tonight.

The Day After

Not a good morning. Still feeling yucky, and tired. Guess due to lack of sleep and lots of drugs. I felt bad when people called and I felt terrible. So, if I don't answer from now on, that's why. I listened to an imagery CD that my dear friend Debra gave me and it helped a lot!!!! Very calming. And a great call from my friend Anne, who made me laugh and pulled me out of my funk! I love you!!!!
Off to the Doctor again to get a shot to build up my white blood cells, didn't hurt a bit (I'm a chicken!)  Thank you Nurse Carol Ann for your  gentleness and wealth of information. Next stop, the surgeon to have my port checked. All is well and good.
Thank you dear, sweet Sue for being my escort today! I Love you!

CHOP

Day Two of Chemo was a little different.
Different attitude on my part-I was tired due to all of the drugs from the day before that kept me up.
Different Nurse-Katie-who was outstanding and inspiring!
Different Mix of drugs-the Strong Stuff! (Think red Hawaiian Punch going in. . . )
Different length of time-shorter day!
Katie told us to go out to dinner that night so we did, but it didn't work out too well. Couldn't really eat my yummy steak so I had to bring it home.

How about some Hawaiian Punch?

The night was tough, but I had my sweet Craig by my side, and running up  and down the stairs getting things for me to settle my stomach. I love him so!!!!!

Drip, Drip, Drip

Ready to kick this thing!

Danielle hooking me up.

Chatting, of course!!!

Off to my first day of chemotherapy. Feeling good, looking good (I can brag a little), and ready to start the battle. Nurse Barbara hooked me up and sent me on my way. Nurse Danielle set us up in a prime location-flat screen TV and near the bathroom. It's all about location!

The Lavender Girls!

The staff was outstanding-friendly, informative and most importantly, genuinely sweet and caring Angels!!! With their help and my honey, Craig and dearest friend Lisa by my side, the Drip, Drip, Drip of the day passed without any major problems.
I actually came home feeling energized and full of pep-apparently due to all of the benadryl and steroids.
Special thanks to Janis for the absolutely delicious dinner! And of course, Prudence for knitting me the most beautiful blanket!!!!!!

A Prayer

May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.

The Chemo Companion

I read this little book yesterday that I received at the Cancer Institute and decided to finally read it.  It is called the Chemo-Companion.  Wow! I know this book was written to help prepare you for what's ahead but it kind of made me wish I could sleep through it all. Luckily, in the afternoon, I got to see so many of my friends from school and their words of encouragement, support and love helped me tremendously!!!! Thank you all so much. I love you!

Haircut

 

Before                                          

Being Measured for a wig

A toast to LIFE!

The Haircut

                                                      
Do you think I should cut more off?

                                                                        

Vanity

Vanity is a difficult issue to confront. I don't think it is so terrible to want to look good. My girlfriends and I often end up talking about our hair and where we get it cut and how a lot of times we are just not happy with it or our stylist. ( BTW, I Love My Stylist)  Sometimes, having a bad hair day can just ruin your day. Am I right, ladies? 

Well, in preparation for losing my hair, as the doctor said I most definitely will, I am cutting my hair shorter today. (Think Ellen Degeneres style without the flip in front!)  I'm thinking I would rather lose it in little clumps as opposed to big clumps. Sounds kind of silly, considering I have short hair already, but mentally I think if it is much shorter it won't be as bad when it falls out or I shave my head.  

I would like to thank my dear friend Sue for telling me that any haircut will look good because I have a beautiful face. XO

My Goal

Apparently, everyone believes me to be one strong willed individual so I will try to prove you all to be right! I am going to fight this and beat it as it IS curable. I have too many things left to do, places to go and people to see. With your love and support and a lot of humor, I know I can do this. As one of my favorite fortune cookies once said, "A Lifetime of Happiness Lies Ahead of You"!

Treatment

I just had my Port put in yesterday at Good Samaritan Hospital. The staff was fabulous, especially Nurse Beverly who just called to check on me. I did not expect to be this sore and I can't shower for two days so I will be in hiding until tomorrow.
I will begin chemotherapy on Monday and right now they are saying 6 treatments over an 18 week period.
FUN!!!!
I will be losing my hair, but as I told Craig, this is a great time of year for hair loss as there will be so many wigs available at the Halloween Store. As most of you know, I love to play dress-up so look out!!

The Diagnosis

Craig worked tirelessly to find me the best care possible with the best Doctor(s) possible. The Chief of Lymphoma at Sloan Kettering has my file and pathology and is working with a local oncologist (thank you Tyra for the hook up) and I feel I am in the best hands.

The Final Diagnosis-Non Hodgkins Lymphoma, B Cell, Low Grade Folicular. BUT low grade usually grows slowly and mine keeps going. You all know I have to be different!!

The Tests

Cat Scan, Needle Biopsy, Pet Scan and Bone Marrow Biopsy. These are listed in the order I took them-all within a 3 week period. Draining and exhausting and the constant waiting for results.

Fate

Everything happens for a reason. When I was in my car accident in April, all I could say is why me? This was my second one in a year- both rear enders. A few weeks later and MRI on my back showed what they thought was an aneurysm. Cat Scan said it was a swollen lymph node. Follow up required in 3 months.  The follow-up was not good. The mass, which it now was called, had almost doubled in size. Diagnosis- Possible Lymphoma. If I had not been hit, I would have never known until this mass was much further advanced and treatment would have been more difficult.  I feel as if I owe the guy that hit me a HUGE thank you!