The Things They Don't Tell You

Right now I'm being treated for some type of bronchitis/laryngitis --- a side effect of the radiation.  I've been fighting this for almost 6 weeks now.  I've been on 2 antibiotics, a fungicide and may have to go on another.*

Gee, my oncologists are soooooo adamant that the drugs they're pushing [chemo and radiation] are so safe.  My radiation oncologist even showed me a picture showing where the radiation went and where the voice box is, and assured me there was no way radiation was getting to the voice box.  I asked my ENT [ear, nose & throat] doctor if my oncologist is aware of this and he gave me a big "oh yeh." 

A woman in my lymphedema support group got Bell's Palsy as a side effect of radiation therapy...

The upside is that I've been assured this will not last forever and that I will sing once again.


*I'm avoiding yeast infections by taking acidophilus.
 




 

Cancer Free

So I've been through a bilateral mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy -- not to mention all the side effects from these.  I will be taking a drug for the next 5 years to keep my body from producing estrogen.  I'll be dealing with the side effects of lymphedema for the rest of my life. 

The other day I asked my doctor if I am cancer free (right now), and he said yes. 

Why am I not jumping up and down for joy?

Well, for one thing, I'm still having problems with my voice and am feeling, well, icky.  But I think the main thing is that I'm just tired.  Am I still haven't gotten the breast implants yet.....

But, I'm cancer free, and that's a marvelous thing. 

Thank you, God!