We have been watching peregrine falcons raise their chicks on a ledge 57 stories over downtown Seattle. When nearly ready to fledge (take their first flight), the young spent hours looking down, cocking their heads at all angles. "Look, there's a pigeon! Hey, that wind feels great! Boy. It's along way down." That's how it feels to consider cancer treatments.
For weeks I've been peering at all the options. Today we took to the air, agreeing upon a decision for treatment. My oncologist fully endorses it AND THERE'S NO CHEMO!! It's been a stressful decision, weighing data, side effects, desired outcomes, places where the data has no clear recommendations. Thanks to the internet and a family friend (hi Fran!) who's a medical librarian, I had lots of real science to consider. It was fun to walk in with a study, hot-off-the-presses that even my docs hadn't seen. They all wanted a copy. After sifting data, it really came down to what I was comfortable with. David B did his best Counselor Troy imitation, as sounding board and companion for the final informational meetings. At times these felt like negotiations. Next week I'll go in for baseline tests, and start the meds on the last week of July.
For those who like the nitty gritty: I'll be savoring intravenous draughts of Herceptin & nibbles of Tamoxifen. The first one addresses the HER2-neu aspect of my tumor. The second addresses the hormone receptors. Neither has highly toxic side effects. Between them, my statistical likelihood of recurrence within 10 years has been reduced to about 4%. Add in vigorous exercise 5 days a week and it dives down to 2%. I have a shiny new YMCA card: it's not as photogenic as the falcons.
For those who like bird stuff, you can read about the peregrines on the website for the Falcon Research Group, frg.org. Follow the link to the falcons who nest on the Washington Mutual Tower. We usually watch them through a spotting scope, but there's also a webcam with a much closer view. They're all gone now, but there's always next spring!
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Very cool. Sounds like you made a better choice than your doctors could have suggested. Impressive work! I will plan to send you positive vibes for 5 years unless otherwise advised, with unlimited extensions upon request. Whoo hoo! -- Nancy
ReplyDeleteYay for no chemo! If you're interested, I've started taking a community yoga class on Saturday afternoons for the next 7 weeks.
ReplyDeleteMEL
This is good news! We're praying for you. And, btw, I think you meant Counselor Troi.
ReplyDeleteBeth, you always find your way. Good research usually makes good choices in times of indecision. You are on a tough journey. Your blog has made it easier for those who are also on your path, for those who may in time be on your path, and for those on the sidelines watching where you go. Okay, that said, let's go exercise..........I need it!
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