After much soul-searching, studying and talking it out with my family, I have decided to bypass chemotherapy and focus on the positives. I will try a more "natural" approach to preventing recurrences, along with some help from bisphosphonates (the drugs used to prevent osteoporosis), aspirin, the metformin I'm already taking, consistent exercise, lower fat diet, and any other less toxic ideas that show promise. If my oncologist agrees, I will also try anti-hormone therapy. It's not likely to make a difference due to my weak hormone receptors; but if I can tolerate it without side effects, there is nothing to lose.
Today is the first day of the rest of my life.
I'm sure you feel a little less anxious now that you have made a decision. I believe that I would probably have come to the same conclusion if I were in your place.
ReplyDeleteAs always, we will keep supporting you through this journey.
Best wishes,
Sandi
Michelle - Given the facts and figures you presented, I am pretty sure I would have declined the chemo route as well. As long as you are comfortable with your decision, it is the right one for you.
ReplyDeleteAgain, thanks for the education and allowing us to share this journey with you. I hope this is the final chapter.
Elaine
Michelle, you are very thorough in your research. You know your own body and comfort levels with certain drugs. I think you are making the best decision possible with the information you've gotten.
ReplyDeleteYes, thanks for allowing us to be part of this journey with you! I love that you share all aspects of having this kind of breast cancer. It helps me to understand what you are going through each day of this process. I also love hearing about the laughter and fun you are having during this time. Attitude DOES also play a factor in any disease. My friend's husband that had lymphoma is free from the cancer cells, and his chances were not great.
My other friend's husband who had the motorcycle accident is now moving his hands and talking for the first time in 3 weeks. Both of these people are fighters, and so are you.
Michelle, bottom line, it's what you think is right for you. You are brave. Much braver than I am. I would not have done the research, I would have had BOTH breasts removed. But you have to do what is right for you and your family.
ReplyDeleteThanks for keeping us posted on this. And my thoughts are with you with the next part of your journey.
linda
Michelle, you can feel comfortable with your decision after all the research you have done. You know in your heart and mind what is best for you.
ReplyDeleteI love your positive attitude, girl. You are so right when you say this is the first day of the rest of your life. Enjoy it!
Cindy
Michelle, thanks for keeping us updated. Sounds like you are very informed and resolved in your decision- that's terrific. Rest assured that you have made the decision that is best for you. Go forward and enjoy each day, and watch this cancer stuff become a very small portion of your life, vs. the all consuming soul searching decision making you've had to do. ;)
ReplyDeleteLE