moving forward and all that jazz...

eihtak
eihtak Member Posts: 1,473 Member
in Anal Cancer #1

Hi everyone,

Thank you all so much for the kind thoughts, prayers, and well wishes, so freely shared for myself and each other throughout this journey.

Last week I finished radiation to my lung area for my second metastasis of anal cancer. (Initial dx of stage 3b anal cancer in 2011, 1st mets to lung in 2015, 2nd mets to (hilum) 2018). So far the side effects are easily managed and more of a mild annoyance than anything. I have a constant dry cough and when I swallow it feels like everything gets stuck in my upper chest. It helps to take small bites, chew well, and eat slow. I am told these effects will be short lived but I admit I am somewhat skeptical based on the often "under" stated discussion of radiation side effects by doctors from past experience. 

Since most of us already deal with diet and eating issues that relate to our effects from pelvic radiation, this is really no big deal for me now. I guess I just see it as an extension of my digestive system being fried from top to bottom now, lol! My greater concern will be to watch for lung area radiation effects to structures involving breathing and my heart that may show up down the road.

I am now in the what I call the "wait 'n bake" period while radiation continues to do its thing off the clock over the next few weeks. I will be scanned again later in October and from there my doctor and I will decide on the next best step. I know he is considering one of the newer immunotherapy drugs such as Opdivo if needed.

I'm a little tired but otherwise feel good. I've been enjoying the beautiful late summer weather in Wisconsin and spending lots of time with my busy grandkids at local festivals, soccer games, and hockey practices. I'm looking forward to fall activities (a lovely season here with lots of color) and hoping for a mild winter to follow as I really don't like the cold and snow!

Hope you are all moving forward as well and for those affected by the seasons horrific weather, storms, and hurricane, my prayers are with you all.

katheryn

Comments

  • mp327
    mp327 Member Posts: 4,440 Member
    #2
    katheryn

    I am so happy to see your update and know that you came through treatment with few side effects that you are managing well!  You certainly have been through the wringer, but you keep coming back and staying strong.  I am so impressed by your positive attitude, determination and strength!  I hope this treatment is determined to be successful and that you can put it all behind you once and for all.  Take care, rest up, and get ready to enjoy all of those things you mentioned that make you happy!  Hugs!

  • Kim Gaia
    Kim Gaia Member Posts: 73
    #3
    Good to hear your update,

    Good to hear your update, katheryn! It's certainly nice to be finished with a treatment and on to the recovery phase. Enjoy that late summer weather. I am doing the same on the west coast right now. (Although rain keeps getting in the way.)

    kim

  • Ohmy
    Ohmy Member Posts: 103 Member
    edited September 2018 #4
    My prayers are with you as

    My prayers are with you as well, Kathryn.  I am happy to hear your treatment went well with minimal side effects.  Thank for sharing your words of wisdom with us.  I am moving forward through the second year of my journey.  Looking forward to my next PET scan in October.  After major hurricanes two years in a row in Florida, we hope for a break this year.  So far, we only have the heat and the daily afternoon thunderstorm.  May God bless you and keep you safe.

  • pializ
    pializ Member Posts: 508 Member
    #5
    'And all that jazz'

    I just love your attitude! 

    Thank you for the update. I think of you often & hope your recovery is uneventful

    Fond regards

    Liz

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