Test Results

Mom got the preliminary test results from the Octotype DX test late last week from Dr.Pratt. She has a recurrence score of 45, which is at a high risk for breast cancer to return (either in her other breast or in other parts of her body). The course of preventative treatment would be chemotherapy and then hormone treatment after that. We consult with the oncologist on February 23rd after a follow up visit with Dr. Pratt.

Of course, this wasn't the news that we wanted to hear. In the perfect world, mom wouldn't need any other treatment. But, alas, we are not in a perfect world. Now comes the big challenge of getting Mom through chemotherapy treatments. Since treatment is different for each patient, we can't speculate on what type of chemotherapy she will be on. Also, we can't speculate on what the side effects will be. Everyone knows the typical side effects of hair loss and nausea. But, I know that these drugs affect patients differently. We will have to wait and see. Once, I know what her treatment course will be, I can do more research on the drugs and their side effects. So, as is a general theme throughout this blog, it is waiting....

I didn't want to forget to update on how my Aunt Marilyn is doing. She is doing remarkably well for someone that the doctor didn't think would survive the weekend. She will be going to a rehabilitation facility at some point this week for further recovery. She's very weak, but she's stubborn. I took mom to visit her on Friday afternoon. I think that Aunt Marilyn thrives with her family and friends around her. We had lots of laughs with my cousins who were there too. Mom was asking family members if they could tell that she has had a mastectomy based on wearing her new bra and fluff. Of course, everyone could see the difference, because things have to be adjusted professionally, but she still looks pretty good.

Mom goes to her primary doctor this week for a follow up on her sodium test and discussion on other prescription medications. I told mom to ask the doctor for a recommendation for an oncologist, just in case the one that she picked out wasn't one that she wants to work with. She also needs to get back in her regular routine a bit more. Yes, she still needs to recover from the surgery, but she needs to get out to drive and go to "The Gathering Place" and to her chiropractor. Sue and I are encouraging her to do this.

Recovery and Waiting....