Saturday 18 January 2014

My new treatment plan

Yesterday seen the start of my second round of chemotherapy (my third actual session -2 treatments in one round). My haematologist came and spoke with me during it and said that he discussed my case with colleagues and a radiologist in Dublin, and they've decided that I will hopefully only need 4 chemo sessions (8 actual treatments -woooo!), and then some radiation (boooo!). Not sure how many radiotherapy sessions yet -the radiologist will tell me more when I meet with her after the 4 rounds of chemo.

He pointed out that they usually do the radiation for Hodgkin's lymphoma in combination with chemotherapy, however when the cancer is in the chest, they are weary of using it on women, particularly young women -there's an increased risk of developing breast cancer in the future because of the radiation. But they weighed up the risks and have decided it's for the best anyway. Apparently my cancer is far enough up the chest area that they hope further cancer as a result of treatment won't be an issue. He's such a lovely and smiley doctor -he could tell me standing on my head was the best treatment, and I'd probably do it. So I trust him on this one.

So that's the current plan... I've learned from other blogs, forums and Facebook groups that 'the plan' can change, but for now, we're running with this one. Everything will depend on my PET scan of course, which should be
at the end of February.

Other, non-cancer craic in my life right now...
  • Me and Simon have been with each other 4 years :) Had a lovely meal yesterday in Fitzpatrick's to celebrate (Their Facebook page and their website) -if you are ever in Co. Louth, Ireland, I highly suggest you go there for grub! Then we went to the cinema to see the new Anchor Man. Lovely evening altogether. 
  • Dogs are pooped from a massive walk out to Blackrock (Co. Louth) today. Got soaked, but great craic all the same! Nice to get some proper exercise and also starting back at the gym next week -me that is, not the dogs, har!
  • Having fun planning Summer adventures (assuming I'm well enough) and going to get more into the sewing, painting and general creating to occupy my time (*Start of shameless plug* if you're on Facebook and don't yet like my page, please do here: KittyLovesTeddies *end of shameless plug*).

To end this post with some happiness and colour, here's some photos of things I've made in the past...

















































Until next time, "Conas atá tú?! Bitches!" :) 

6 comments:

  1. You're only having 4 sessions. Thats nearly as good as my treatment plan! And i fancy my haematologist too!!! We both have HL! We could be twins!!! Love your blog. I will read more when i have more concentration!! Keep up the good work sista xxx

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    1. Thanks Jill! It's great to have someone going through the exact same thing! :) xxx

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  2. Sounds like you have everything under control. I love that you are keeping up with exercise, staying positive & creative too! Best wishes!

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    1. Thanks Sally. I know keeping busy and staying healthy is the main two things I've to try and do at the moment -here's hoping I can keep it up! :)

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  3. That's great news Cathy and if you are starting back to the gym I am always about so give me a shout if you wants some company! I am so glad that they have a good plan, it all seems to be going well in any case! Focus on the creative stuff hun! C u soon kitten!x

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    1. Will do! :) Going to switch to the one above Avenue Vets me thinks x

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