Monday, January 6, 2014

Numbers are …. DOWN!!!!


Please accept this virtual high five from me, because drugs, eating well, prayers, positive thinking, other supplements… it's working!!!! If I could take an accurate picture to depict "giddy" I would post that sucker. I tried to express giddy with my face, but it looks more drunk than anything.

My tumor marker numbers for five years post treatments were in the mid to high 20s, which is considered a normal range. This leads me to believe that most people would have a similar number whether they were living in the cancer world or not. I don't really know if that's true, I just sort of decided that. In May they were suddenly at 45, which sent this whole deal into motion. I'm probably repeating myself, but that's fine. Right after surgery the number went down to 38, then in November we were back at 45. At that time, Dr. Lee said it was great, if the numbers stay the same we're in good shape. This time, the number was 37. WHEEEEE!!!!

Fluctuation is normal because these tumor marker tests can be influenced by other stuff going on in your body, (infection, inflammation, stress probably). They may fluctuate back up, but I feel pretty confident that things are moving in the correct direction. Last time I did the blood work I was a crying anxiety ridden train wreck. I feel like that could have influenced the number also, but who knows for sure.

I really like the quote above. It's a good reminder to relax and enjoy the moment and know things are working themselves out. That whole patience is a virtue thing… um, I've never been very good with that virtue, (or any of them?), but I'm learning!! :)

So far I'm loving 2014.


Saturday, January 4, 2014

Blood draw


I just had my blood drawn yesterday. I shouldn't have to meet with my doctor unless the numbers have gone up. I'm not really worried about it, I'm fairly confident that things are plugging along normally. We'll do some scans in March to see where we're at. Whee! :)

I have had a series of instances along this journey that lead me to believe I have all sorts of love and energy around taking care of me. One of which is the people that draw my blood. The last few women have all had names that make me smile. Linda was one (my amazing Aunt), Chris was one (my amazing mom), Hazel was one (crazy great grandma, but a strong woman), and most recently was none other than Melissa. I choose to believe it isn't coincidence. It's all about what makes me feel better, right? 

Christmas was wonderful. One stint with my family and one stint with Brent's. Both are relaxing and full of laughter and smiles.

We're looking forward to this year, Cannon turns 6 this month and Max will be 8 in March. How did I suddenly have an 8 & 6 yr old? I give Max 2 years at most before he's taller than I am. Not that that is much of a statement. To be taller than a Sime is not shocking, but still weird for me!

Happy New Year!!