So what is it like after the first chemo treatment? I have found that it fluctuates. Right now, I am feeling just fine. No nausea, not too tired. An hour ago, I thought I might lose my lunch, and I was really tired. I've also developed hot flashes followed by a chill. Those are the symptoms so far. I just got some medication for the nausea and hot flashes, and they seem to be kicking in. Say "Yes to Drugs!"

Yesterday, they gave me 3 infusions of anti-nausea medication before starting the cancer chemo. I appreciated that a lot. It took about 11/2 hours for the first medications, and an hour each for the chemo drugs. It was comfortable and actually easy. They just put the port in my arm, and took it out at the end, so no pick line or anything to worry about. That's nice.

Yesterday, I came up with a plan for my hair loss. First of all, at the first sign of clumps of hair coming out, I will call my kids. They will be invited to the "Haircut Party." My eight grandchildren (under 6 years old) will have the first whack with the scissors. Then my children will take turns with the hair clippers (See what happens when we cut our own hair without Mommy's permission, grandchildren?) We can really have fun with it! No pressure! I'll have to have some funny "hair-related" refreshments. Send me ideas if you think of something. Hopefully, I'll have a wig to try on, and I'll experiment with the scarves Courtney gave me for Mother's Day (that's Jared's wife.) Sounds fun doesn't it? Given the choice, I'd rather laugh than cry about it. It's just more fun!!

I went to the Cancer Survivor's Dinner last night here in Blackfoot, and connected with a lot of friends. It's surprising how many people have gone through this disease, right here. Jerry is going to take my turn on the track tonight at 3 a.m. for the Relay for Life. I was thinking yesterday that I could go. Not even... The nurse yesterday said no also and Jerry automatically told me he was good to go. He is taking a nap right now. We will go to the luminary ceremony before the race and then come home.

So, if you have more questions, I'll be happy to answer them but for now, the bottom line:-is: I'm fine. I have a comfortable couch, which I have used already today. How much better can life be?

Lymph Nodes are Clear!

I had an appointment yesterday with the oncologist, Dr. Francisco in Pocatello. The pathology report from surgery was not ready from the lab yet. The doctor did find out the tumor was 1.8 cm, which is larger than some early detections, but smaller than others. The biopsy of the three closest lymph nodes (Sentinal Node Biopsy) was clear of cancer cells. That is good news because it means there is nothing to radiate. I won't have radiation!! For sure!

I was hoping to find out about chemotherapy, but there is another test they can do on the tumor called OncoType DX. It is a test of the genetic material to find out whether I am a candidate for chemo or not. The results of the test is a number from 0-100. If I have a number that is 10 or less, I will not need chemo, meaning I would have an excellent chance of survival for 10 years without any chemo. If I have a number 26 or greater, I would be a good candidate for chemo. Chemotherapy will increase my chances of survival significantly. If, however, I have a number from 11-25, I would have to choose whether to have chemo or not. The results are mixed as to whether it helps or not.

I qualify for a clinical study to help them pinpoint who can benefit from chemo in that 11-25 range. The odds are slim of it being hurtful, and the odds are great that it could be a big help in increasing the pool of cancer research. I would like to be a part of that. So many women have gone through a lot worse than me in order that I had an easier time of this.

So bottom line-- I don't know if I will need chemo. I am prepared to go through that if I need to, but there is a small possibility that I would not be a good candidate for it. I will find out the middle of June sometime. (They say 14 working days--and I add a few on from there.)

I have time to recuperate from surgery and get a few things done before then. I actually will have some time without doctor's appointments!! That will be so nice!

Thank you for your kindness, thoughts, prayers, and phone calls. Please don't worry. I have everything going for me--good health, early detection, and great doctors. I am in good spirits and have a very optimistic attitude.

Physical vs. Emotional

Hi,

I'm feeling better everyday. I'm stronger and don't get tired any more than I did before surgery, I can do whatever I want, within reason.

The last few days were a little emotional, however, because I had to say goodbye to 1,200 students at 4 schools, and the teachers I've worked with for 22 years. I cleaned out 3 desks, and 2 classrooms. I also went to a retirement reception sponsored by the district, and spoke briefly at the district end-of-the-year meeting. It sounds physically draining, but that wasn't the problem. It was the emotional part that was difficult. Goodbyes are hard. But now that it's done, I can just look forward to retirement. Looking forward is more fun than looking backward.

I will probably find out about chemo by June 15. I'll let you know as soon as I know. Thank you again for your thoughts and prayers. I can feel your support, and appreciate it so much!!

Love,

Betty