Yesterday was my appointment with the medical oncologist. This is the doctor that will oversee my chemo, if I need any, and my tamoxifen. We didn’t get much new information, which is a good thing. I am scheduled to see a genetic counselor, but I don’t know if I’ll keep the appointment.
The title of the post comes from my sister. Thirteen years ago, she battled leukemia. What I have to go through, even worse case scenario, doesn’t compare to her struggle. Praise the Lord, she is cancer free and off all meds now. But she gets it. Cancer sucks.
It’s not necessarily the having it, but it’s all that goes along with it. My head is swimming with the information. I have already had so many doctors appointments, I can’t keep track of all of them. There are many more to come. No matter what my course of treatment, there will be side effects. None of them are pleasant. I’ve had one surgery and will have another on Tuesday. My one scar is ugly enough. Not that anyone sees it, but it’s there and it bothers me. What a little thing to be bothered by, but I am. If I’m going to be transparent, I might as well let you see the ugly along with the good.
Because there is good. I’m reading an excellent article by John Piper called Don’t Waste Your Cancer. I’m digesting it and meditating on it in bits. One of his points is that cancer should cause us to fall on our knees and cry to to our God, because he alone is able to heal. And that is what I have been doing. That is what the Lord tells us to do and he is faithful and always answers.
Psalm [34:17]-19 (ESV)
17When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears
and delivers them out of all their troubles.
18 The Lord is near to the brokenhearted
and saves the crushed in spirit.
but the Lord delivers him out of them all.
The best advice I got while going through that was “You will be fine.” At the time, I thought it sounded condescending, but looking back it was great advice.
Some advice I didn’t get, that I wish I had, was to get a second opinion from another surgeon. Would have saved me extra surgery and later developing lymphedema in my arm.
Hugs to you : )
Christine, so many Christians are praying for you and your spirit to prevail. Cancer is a terrible disease and Word.. Why me Lord ? It doesn’t make it any better, but so many women (and men)are suffering with you and your cancer.(Men do have breast cancer also) My thoughts and prayers are and will be with you daily. Jane Konings / Covenant OP Church
I agree, but this, too shall pass.
I am 6 1/2 years cancer free now and writing to help other women.
Praying for you.
Liz, I agree. I’m so sorry you have to go through this. I know the tailspin of emotions and “How am I ever going to get through this?” but you will-by going through 1 step at a time. 1 appt at a time. I’m so glad you have your sister as a witness that you can come out on the other side.
Praying for you.
I hope I didn’t sound harsh when I said that this, too, shall pass.I didn’t mean it that way. My aunt who barely made it thru chemo had said that to me and it helped give me a perspective mid-spin.
Jesus will be an anchor to you thru it all.