The Good, Bad and the Ugly

It's 5 days after my first chemo treatment and not a whole lot has changed...even though EVERYTHING has changed.

Here's the answer to the question I know you're all dying to know.
Yes, I still have my hair....for now.
Woo hoo! :)

The effects of my first chemo have been minimal so far. From what I hear from the chemo nurses, the first few days after treatment are usually pretty good. Fatigue sets in usually days 5-10. White blood cell counts dip down days 10-14 and then I should feel pretty good for a few days before I go in for my next chemo treatment.
So far, they have been pretty right on. I felt like a rock star yesterday. Today, I felt like I was hit by a truck. Overall, my good moments have far outnumbered the bad ones. I'm so thankful for that.

Some of the common side effects that I have been experiencing so far are a metallic taste in my mouth, extreme fatigue, mouth sores, itchy scalp and rashy skin. I'm feeling pretty sexy. ;)

Here's the plan of attack.
I will have chemotherapy every three weeks for six cycles. That will last until February/March.
At that time, I will have a bilateral mastectomy. Yep, both breasts are being removed even though only one side has a tumor.
I can't fathom going through this again and I think it would be stupid for me to leave breast tissue there that could easily become cancerous down the line. It's a personal decision that my doctor agrees with. I also would like boobs that match. Wouldn't you?
After the mastectomy, I will receive daily radiation on my lymph nodes for about a month.
If all goes well, I will have reconstructive surgery following that.

Based on that timeline, we're looking at about a year if I don't hit any downfalls with illnesses, etc.
It seems daunting right now, but every day marks one day closer to being cancer-free!

I have my MUGA heart test tomorrow. HOPEFULLY that shows normal flow. Prayers appreciated!


Your support has been overwhelming. Thanks again for all of the cards, texts, treats and meals. Love you!



The boys reading my cards. They are such day brighteners!


The kids and I cuddling with the new quilt my friend, Tiffany, made me. She is insanely talented and it is PERFECT. Thank you again, Tiff!


Karsyn has been rubbing my legs with lotion daily because she WANTS TO. Crazy, huh? It's awesome!


My mom and the kids surprised me with a cake when I woke up from one of my many naps.
She has been amazing with the kids.