Monday, November 14, 2011

The Dr. weighed in...

First of all, I have to tell you that I am getting stronger each day.  This has definitely been my slowest recovery, but I think it is to be expected with all my body has been through.  Yesterday I made dinner for my family...and even homemade bread. (which was huge for me.)  I am pushing myself as far as I can daily and can't wait to report to you that I'm fully back.  I'm trying...so hard!!

As you know...they did find more cancer with the last surgery.  It was on my uteris (which was removed with several other organs)...but it was good sized and went undetected by my doctor because it was hiding under SO much scar tissue.  The inside of my abdomen is covered in 3rd degree burns from heated chemo and other treatments...so there is TONS of scarring all over inside.  There is a chance that was the only cancer there...but the likelihood is not in my favor.  I had been waiting on my oncologist to tell me if more chemo was needed. 

I had my appt and he was so kind, but explained that there wasn't anything left to give me right now.  We tried several different regimens already and I already had a reoccurrence, so he had no evidence that it did any good.  I was bummed as you might guess, but I am at peace with it.  I feel deep in my heart that I have more time...and  I pray that during that time other treatments will be discovered.  I have an orphan cancer, though...and there aren't many patients diagnosed with it.  That means that there aren't really any clinical trials to develope treatments.  I have heard rumor of one that is lacking funding...and is specifically for appendix cancer.  I am working to organize a run that will benefit that clinical trial.  The efforts could very well save MY life...  You will definitely be hearing more about that as it evolves.  Thanks again for all of the support.

to quote a legend that lost her battle to appendix cancer...the beautiful Audrey Hepburn.

10 comments:

The Rose Family said...

Just wanted to say THANK YOU for your inspirational hope and excellent perspective. I was "blog lurking" and found your story. You don't know me from Adam, but I wanted to tell you that you have made a profound difference in my life. And I wish nothing but the best for you and your family.

Kristen said...

I would be glad to help you organize the run or in any way I can!!

reverseoreo said...

I would also like to help organize and maybe run in it. I will have to get in shape though. Just keep me posted!!!!

Melissa Conway said...

Whatever you need. Let me know.

Halfords said...

Shanda, you are incredible! You are in my prayers!!

Carol said...

Shanda your such a inspiration to everyone and I would love to help in anyway with this run! I am so happy you are getting stronger and not giving in! I will continue to pray for you!

Carol said...
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Anna Vahrenberg said...

Shanda, Ever since I "met" you through Etsy I've known that you are a very special person. I've continued to follow your progress through your blog. I just wanted you to know that I have been keeping you and your family in my prayers. You are such an inspiration to me!

Dave and Loralee said...

I love you :)

Laurene said...

Shanda: Trailblazer of the wilderness. Keep whacking away at that underbrush and let us know how we can help.