Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Pathology Results

Hi, everyone. We're back from Tucson and the news isn't great, but not horrible either. Dr. Lang did not have the official final pathology report yet, but had spoken on the phone to the pathologist. He told her that the cancer in my breast tissue had been eradicated, but six out of six lymph nodes she removed (all she could find) were positive for cancer cells. The good thing is they're out now. She did not think I would have to be on chemo again. She said Dr. Livingston will have some ideas for things to do to try and prevent metastasis. I will be seeing Dr. Livingston on Monday and will know more then. I will also be seeing the radiologist next week in order to take the first steps in getting ready for radiation. Now, they will irradiate a larger area that includes the axilla instead of just the chest wall.

Dr. Lang said 30 to 50% of patients with advanced breast cancer will develop recurrence within five years. Five year survival rates are around 60%. She also stressed that these are overall numbers and are really no indication how any one individual will do. She also said they include all patients with all different treatment plans. I have had very aggressive, cutting edge treatment and will continue to do so.

So, not the news I was hoping for, but it is what it is and we move forward from here. I've given myself permission to be sad for a little, but know that too much of that is counterproductive. Thankful that I'm going through this when there are so many treatment options and hope.

Love you all!
Martha

7 comments:

L- said...

*sigh* Well, we are with you, Love! I'm so sorry it wasn't what we wanted but you've made it this far with grace. I'm sending many warm hugs your way.

Dottie said...

DEAR Martha, We're all saying our prayers and believing totally that you are going to continue to pull MIRACLES out of your hat like you have been!!! I am so grateful that you have such a fantastic medical team who is so on the leading edge of aggressive, innovative treatment.

We all are walking right there beside you and with you, Martha, through these challenging and unfair trials. You have the right to be sad . . . and mad! Know that when you're ready to "get back on the horse", we'll still be right there by your side ready to tackle whatever the next step is in this journey.

Your beauty and grace are positively remarkable, Martha. We're ALL going to continue to believe!!!

Lots of love,
Dottie

ZueZQue said...

Love you Martha!!

Hugs,
sue

Carol Dunton said...

Hi my buddy...
Well...there is still much good news within the report and much to be positive about. This report actually shows what a wonderful response you've had to the chemo and, no doubt, will CONTINUE to have to the treatment plan your fabulous doctors work with you on. I guess this journey is a little longer than what we wanted, but Martha, and Joe, you know that you do not travel this journey alone. I've had you in my mind and prayers all day today, as have many, many others. The prayers will continue, fortified, even! The love, the notes, texts, calls...all of it continues...AS DOES THE MARGARITA EXPRESS!!! (um, unless the good doc says otherwise!). So let's lace up those shoes...cuz we're still walking with you! : ))
Love to all of you,
Carol

N-Search of Peace! said...

" Nothing is so strong as gentleness and nothing is so gentle as true strength "

Love you, your heart, your being...
N-Peace

Mary Monica said...

Dear Martha, Thanks you for your update and all your honesty. Sad is OK...gearing up to continue the battle. Your news underscores to me the importance of all the choices you have made to seek the best medical team and cutting edge treatment. You are you, not a statistic. You are one tough woman but don't have to be tough all the time. I continue to keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
love, Mary Monica

Meags said...

Good Morning Martha, I agree with Velvet. So much good news within. It was great seeing you yesterday. Your smile is a permanent picture in my mind. Thanks for allowing our family the privledge to cook a meal for you. All our prayers have been with your family but for us sometimes physical work is our living prayers. We love you all.