Two doctors appointments today and no good news to share.
The morning appointment was with the lung doctor. He said the brain MRI results came back. Brain tumors have been confirmed. There are actually multiples of them in different areas of the brain. It’s one thing to expect it and another thing to actually receive a confirmation of something much worse. I feel like life has punched me in the gut again.
The afternoon appointment was with the back doctor. She showed me the spine MRI that was taken earlier with the fractured disc. Now that we have the pet scan, we know there are cancer cells in there. She also showed me all the places pet scan showed cancer cells. There are 8 different areas in my bones alone. The only thing she could possibly do something about is the 1 disc if it helps at all. She wants me to see my radiation oncologist on Wednesday and see what they can do first. She doesn’t want to recommend anything that might interfere with the radiation treatment because that needs to come first. I will wait.
On top of all these, I have been taking a cough medicine that has hydrocodone in it. That’s the only thing that is able to somewhat control my cough. My lung doctor wrote another of the same prescription today because I am about to run out. Guess what the pharmacist told me, I am over my opioids limit for the year! What??? I am only a month into this thing. How could they be worried about my opioids intake at this stage?! The doctor’s office has to resolve that with the insurance company.
I went out for a sunset walk and some tai chi outdoor yesterday. I love this time of the day. I know I couldn’t prevent darkness from falling, but I know in my heart the sun will rise the next day. I do feel sorry for myself sometimes and all the friends and family on this journey with me. It’s one gut wrenching news after another. It’s just so hard on days like this.
The only family member doesn’t seem to be concerned is Oreo, one of my 3 cats. As I type all these bad news to you all, guess what he is doing?
I can’t help but smile. I adore him so much! At least one of us is not crying today. I count that as a blessing! And, yes, Mater Oreo, I will get some sleep! Tomorrow my super-duper-end-all-be-all drug will arrive. I need my strength for that! The sun will rise!
Mark says
Went to Tai Chi today. Sam and Eileen are doing a great job and everyone looked good as we moved through our set with a lovely melody playing upstairs. You are missed sooooo much. Everyone is praying for you.
I’m sorry about the bad news.
I’m glad that you got out for a walk and some tai chi.
I didn’t know you had three cats.Oreo…I’m guessing, like the cookie, black and white, cute!
I hope you rest well tonight.
Barbara Milcoff says
Indeed, the sun has risen. This is a day of promise. Good energy from the TTCS group is with you.
Barbara
Larry Ivkovich says
I’m so sorry to hear that news, Helena, and hope the new medication helps. Again, your positive attitude is fantastic and that’s definitely a plus in your favor. I don’t know if I would have that kind of courage in the same situation. Please know all of your students and friends here in Pittsburgh are thinking of you!
Larry
Mary Lynne Martin says
Helena, from the first time I spoke with you, I could sense your positive spirit. Your blog is incredibly inspiring and your bravery and eloquence during this struggle is breathtaking. I feel your love and hope you feel mine and others as we are praying for God to surround you and provide you with comfort.
Helena Trent says
Thank you, Mary Lynne! I so appreciate your encouraging words during this difficult time.
Claudia Leggett says
So sorry to hear about your diagnosis. If you need a ride to the hospital for your treatment,I’m available except tomorrow ,10/10 and 10/17.