Good checkups for a change

Oh, the joy of doctor's visits. At least this time they are not filled with the doom of bad news.

I had my six-weeks post radiation checkup with Dr. O. that went wonderfully. Of course, the last time I was there I had a raging fever and the chicken pox. No wonder everyone thought I looked great, I was coherent! A vast improvement. Everyone gave me a hug. My BP was low and my temp was high but a good report there, I just need to remember to use SPF 30 or higher anytime I'm in the sun. I had been out for about 15 minutes the week before and my treatment area turned red again. Dr. O. scheduled me for a mammogram in August and then I'll see her again in September.

I also saw Dr. G at Blue Ridge Cancer Care. My appointment with him went well. My bloodwork had came back with good results, which is great. I described to him the issues I've been having with my port every time they flush it... that it's not just a migraine. The fever, chills, body pain... it's too much to deal with. He agreed and said it's time for it to come out!!! Great news. It does require another surgery. Not so great. It wouldn't give blood back for the bloodwork so they had to use my arm, I'd almost forgotten what that was like! It's a little discouraging because they do have trouble accessing veins in that arm and the port was so helpful during chemo, I can see why they like to have/use them. It just won't cooperate!!!

I do have to say, it is strange going back to BRCC after chemo. I look around and see the people, especially the women receiving their treatments... having lost their hair... and I just want to hug them. I can see how strong they are becoming and how they are hiding their fear. Because that's what you do to get through it. It makes you a different, hopefully better, person.