After My visit to Moffitt , two days ago, I got a bit more insight on what is to come. I will find out Friday if I will be having radiation therapy. If that is the case I will have to complete that before they will begin the chemotherapy treatments.
The cancerous tumor removed was an Osteosarcoma, very high grade and aggressive. The good news is that they removed it intact, so there is no cancer left where it all began. The chemo is to get any cells that may have already been released and prevent them from causing cancer in my lungs which is the common outcome of this rare type that, was positively identified in the pathology, that was done after the surgery.
Once the radiation decision is made, the planned chemotherapy will be scheduled. The team work at Moffitt is truly a well choreographed piece that will be set on me so that I can have my dance with the crystal tower. I have seen others moving and or being moved about at Moffit with these intimidatingly large chemo towers and that is what I have named them.
Anyway, I will be connected to my crystal tower for five days and then come home for two weeks to prepare to have another dance. This schedule will be either 4 or 6 times and then be finished. If I can stay strong and battle ready, I can complete this tour de force in three months. Meanwhile I will be doing the PT as well as I possibly can, considering the rigerous schedule of tower dances and recovery. My goal is to be finished with chemo and walking normally simultaneously. I guess my Ruby Slippers will be my dancing shoes as they lead me back to the old familiar body I long to call home once again.
Kathy, finally the monster is positively identified and the battle can begin to stop the cells. Your team sounds excellent and we know that you are in the BEST of hands. The battle will be difficult but you have conquered before; just none as fearsome as this. You are strong willed, strong of mind and strong of heart! The three will prepare you for the war that your body and your team will wage on the silent foe! Those who love you will be here to help you and stand with you.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Robin. You are incredibly strong, have a marvelous attitude and in my opinion have the best chsnce possible--in the meantime you have a host of people who care and will help support you with their love and caring.
ReplyDeleteSending you a big big big big hug, Kathy. So Much love. You are amazing and inspiring to me (and many others, I am sure). Thank you for sharing your adventure/journey/experience. I hope I can work on you soon. I love you...Nina
ReplyDeleteTomorrow is approaching and your dance will begin .
ReplyDeleteMusic has always helped me and I´m sure Paul can help you to have the right one for your dance.
I will think of you and pray that the dance will end in standing ovation !
My prayers are with you Kathy !
Liisa
I'm sure this is an extreme test of your strength. But, I remember something you once said to me long ago in a discussion about aging and health. That's when I began to realize how strong you are. I also agree with Robin. You have always remained steadfast with your positive attitude in the darkest of situations. I see you dancing a jig in those ruby red slippers! Love you mucho. Linda
ReplyDeleteWTF!? I googled Osteosarcoma, its a kiddie cancer, average age of those who get it is 15....so if you want to make a positive out of a negative, this cancer took it's sweet time getting around to you, you were granted a 30+ year reprieve!! Another positive is excellent 5 year survival rates(which was not the case way back when) Don't let that crystal tower intimidate you, it will be your friend!
ReplyDelete@Bernard: well done buddy!
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