When was your original diagnosis?
My original diagnosis was July 2000
When did the cancer return and how?
My cancer return August 2005 after a complete routine test ordered after 5 years. An ultra sound of the abdomen revealed 3 lesions on the liver.
How did having the cancer return affect you? (Mentally, physically, emotionally)
The first year of treatment did not go very well. I have some complications. I started on the clinical trial and I lost 30 pounds the first 3 months. Then I was scheduled for insertion of portho-cath. Unfortunately, the vascular surgeon perforated my lung. I was sent to the emergency a week after the surgery for a pneumothorax intervention. This was done after chemotherapy. The sad part is the pneumothorax intervention was not done in operation room (under sterile technic). I ended up having a systemic infection and was hospitalized for 5 days. They thought I might have my chemotherapy drugs injected in my lungs due to perforation and added a potential brain tumor due to the large size of my head. Luckily no brain tumor but it was a heck of difficult time. My husband thought that I would not make it for Christmas. They stopped chemo and started Femora. Sadly on December 31 the doctor informed me that my lesions had doubled in size and Femora was stopped. I started on Xeloda for 1 year with neuropathy in my feet and hands. They could not flush my portho-cath and I ended in emergency for removal of the portho-cath with a severe risk of a potential stroke because a large clot from the portho-cath has travel to my jugular. As you could see, this was a very difficult time.
What changes have you made in your life since the cancer returned, if any?
After the first year I decided to read a lot on different type of body mind therapies. As before I was doing visualization twice daily. After an extensive reading on meditation I started on transcendental meditation and other eastern holistic therapy. I included heart healing meditation, self massage and continued to stay active physically by walking 40 to 60 km per week plus free weight training and a core training and yoga daily. I kept myself spiritually as well by meditating in a chapel one hour weekly. I started to evaluate my own journey by giving that special time for reflecting on my personal and professional life. I discovered more aspect about myself and feel grateful to the cancer to give the chance to discover myself in a way I never did before. This was the very important part. Accepting this challenge as a gift as curious as it sounds.
Where do you draw your strength from? How do you look at life today?
I draw my strength from my family and my friends. Keeping fit and stay positive. Life is a journey. Every step is important even the difficult one.
Do you have any advice for others with a recurrence?
My advice will be getting involved in decision making and put you first. Keep yourself active and have a good laugh. Surround yourself with positive people and appreciate every day.
Anything else to add?
Keep in contact with people and take one day at the time.
