Catalyst '09

Can't believe we're already back in Atlanta for Catalyst. Time is certainly flying by so quickly these days. Last year at this time, we had already received the news that my tumor was 'highly suspicious for intracystic papillary carcinoma'. Because we were coming here, my MRI was scheduled for when we got back and the first surgery scheduled for the 22nd of Oct. We were getting ready for our mission trip to Mindanao/Philippines.

Today, I had my shot, saw the oncologist, met with the nurse in charge of the study and had my blood work done. I guess I'm behind schedule on the blood work and will need to do it again in 8 weeks, instead of 12 weeks. Dr. Robinson answered alot of my concerns. The numbness/tingling/pins & needles on my feet she said may be just a natural part of my healing. She will monitor to make sure it's not a vascular issue. She does not think it's neurological issues at this time. Regarding the itching on the left breast: if it persists in the next month, we will schedule an MRI next month when I come in for my shot. She does not want to over test but she also does not want to under test. She said that the MRI will reveal other things that the mammogram did not. We shall see. I know she wants me to have peace of mind. I am scheduled to see the OB-GYN for some tests; she wants to make sure I will not develop uterine cancer, which is a possible side effect of my medications.

I asked Dr. Robinson if I'm being paranoid because I sometimes do get worried about the cancer coming back or getting cancer on the left side. She said, "No, it is very normal and expected actually. This is the reason why cancer is more of a chronic disease rather than an acute one; it's because people do worry about it coming back. Most people don't worry about their diabetes or high blood pressure but with a cancer diagnosis, it is always in the back of your mind. I'm so glad that she's very understanding and answers all my concerns. She is excited that I've started doing evaluations again.

After my appointments, Frendell & I took the train (blue to orange) to Midway airport. The walk was quite long from the end of the line to the ticket counter. But it wasn't too bad; there were a lot of people taking this line as well. We got there in plenty of time. It is now past midnight Eastern time and I am exhausted but I'm having a hard time sleeping again. It will be another long day tomorrow... but I am excited to be here and I'm glad we'll be able to attend Catalyst's 10th anniversary. We've been attending for 8 years now.... wow