The Hero can often identify those days which mark a change in his journey, or somehow impact the direction of his future. Today was one of those days. Today was the day I got the results of the genetic testing, and it is official, I carry the BRCA1 mutation.
Really, it would have been a surprise to learn I didn't carry the BRCA1 mutation. Having it confirmed by my genetic counsellor today answers a lot of questions -- why does a 40-year-old woman with no family history of breast cancer have this disease? Why does her cancer not fall into the normal expected parameters? Now we know I do have the mutation and we can make decisions based on sound medical data. According to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation women who carry a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene have a 50 to 85 per cent risk of developing breast cancer.
What this means for me, is instead of having only the affected breast surgically removed, I will have what is known as a prophylactic mastectomy, the removal of my unaffected breast to reduce the risk of developing another tumor. The genetics counsellor is also going to set up a consultation with a gynecological oncologist to discuss the possibility of having my ovaries removed, as women who have the BRCA1 mutation also have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, which, unlike breast cancer, is difficult to detect. Having had cancer once, I'm not keen on having it a second time and will consider all my options to lower potential risks.
Today was also my last pre-chemo blood work and check-up. My doctor is very pleased with the way the tumors have responded to chemo. The drop in my white blood cell count and subsequent hospitalization last week means I will be adding a new drug to my regime this time around. I'll need to take medication by injection for seven days to stimulate blood cell growth. My nurse has arranged for the VON to come in and give me the injections and, if I'm comfortable with it, to teach me how to give myself the shot. We'll see.
Today we also talked more about the next phase of treatment -- surgery. We talked about the timing of reconstruction...during my mastectomy or after radiation. Having both done at once complicates both the surgery and the scheduling because it must fit the schedule of the plastic surgeon too. I want to have the surgery done as soon as possible and my oncologist also feels sooner is better than waiting what could be months -- from both a physical and an emotional standpoint. So she'll be in touch with my surgeon again and we'll get it scheduled. Ideally they like to do it about four weeks following the final chemo treatment.
This was my last appointment with my oncologist until a follow-up appointment in November. I've kind of gotten used to the routine and was a little out of sorts leaving the clinic today. I'm sure this feeling will pass quickly, but everyone takes comfort in their routines -- even the unpleasant ones.
On a brighter note, today's mail had a card from Aunt Lori and Uncle Bob.
Okay...so you're a mutant. Maybe there is an upside, like you could develop some kind of super power. I think you already have though. Look how many people you have touched with your courage. Love you kiddo!
ReplyDeleteHey Sue, my favourite mutant friend! Neiterh congratulations nor sorry seems like the proper response so I'll just say good to know so you can move on.
ReplyDeleteBeen thinking about you all day - hope the final treatment went well and side effects are non existent!
Heading to Moncton for my *gasp* 25th high school reuinion - will give you a call next week. Hugs, Trudy