Not sure I am in the right spot, but introducing myself ! I love the concept of " Teal Sisters". It's not a club we planned to be part of but it's nice to share the journey with those who know the experience well. Thankful for our supporters, but I fear wearing out those not actively involved, if that makes sense. I wonder that they get sick of hearing about cancer, even if they care. I am 1 and a half years into my journey. Diagnosed late June of 2023, debulking surgery August 27th. I had some serious side effects as I had a small stroke affecting my sight during surgery. I was 2 weeks in hospital, home one week, and back for a week when I started throwing blood clots. One killed half of my left kidney and others found in my lungs, all from a deep vein thrombosis in my leg. Blood thinners have controlled that situation without further issues. When a young doctor told me I also had a hole in my heart I asked to see my DNR again. I asked not to have CPR if I crashed as I was so discouraged. I had listened to a code blue before leaving hospital, and decided it wasn't for me.
I had my 6 chemos , both in my arm and via abdominal port, so long days.
Side effects weren't too severe, mainly fatigue, hair loss and neuropathy in my feet. I finished in Feb 2024 and then started on Olaparib ( Lynparza) in April. The dose had to be reduced after I developed anemia, and in Nov 2024 I was told to stop again as they were concerned about the readings from my kidneys. I have had lots of appts again for bloodwork, and seeing a kidney specialist as well as my London oncologist. He encouraged me to take the meds again, as he said " the Cancer is too dangerous". I am on olaparib again, and being monitored. All of my medical team, and clinic staff have been amazing, caring and supportive. Love them !
In the sequence of fears this brings, I am working through fear of reoccurrence and of death. At 72, I am fortunate to be past work days, and child bearing. Have a wonderful joint family and lots of grandkids, so I am grateful for seeing many milestones. Sadly, Nov 8th, 2024, my beautiful step daughter, Mera died after her very tough battle with cancer. ( colo-rectal then lung). It was very hard to witness the end stage, sad, painful and sobering for me. It was an education in palliative care.
Thank you for creating this meeting place. Hugs to you all ! ��
#Introductions