Tom and I met with the oncologist today. I have been really anxious about this appointment – not sure why since it was just a checkup. I’m glad it’s over. 🙂
So looking into the future…
The pill I thought I was going to take for 10 years, I will be taking the rest of my life because the cancer has already spread once. He said we could talk about it again in 10 years, but wasn’t in favor of stopping it.
With that being said, we have to change something. The bone pain has been minimized by exercise. It’s not gone, but it’s better.
What’s not better is my mood. I seem to be getting more and more depressed. With side effects and life both happening at the same time, it’s often hard to decipher which is which. Last night as I sat on my bed almost in tears, I knew that what I was feeling was a result of the pill. There was nothing to feel down about, but yet there I was, almost in tears, for no reason. Tom has been noticing it at night and shared with the Dr. that he was concerned about it.
While the Dr. cared about my other side effects (hot flashes, bone pain, etc.) the depression and mood swings was a big a concern. He gave us the option of switching to a similar pill, in hopes that these same side effects don’t happen, or to treat the mood swings/depression. We opted to try the other pill, Aromasin. The prescription has already been filled, so I’ll start that tomorrow. I will follow up with him via email during the month and then we have an appointment on October 19th.
Dr. Leung put in a request for another PET scan since it’s been about 6 months since my last one. That should be done right before my appointment on the 19th, so we can go over the results that day.
I will also be having a bone density test done this month, just to get a base line for that.
Even though nothing bad happened during the appointment, I just want to crawl under the covers and cry. Instead I’m headed to school to pick up our oldest and take her to the Eye Dr. Then we’ll try and get homework and piano practicing done before Back to School Night this evening. It’s probably good I have something to do so I don’t hide in bed…as long as I don’t break down crying while practicing spelling with a very cute 7 year old. 🙂
As you pray for our family please pray for:
- No side effects with this new pill
- No scanxiety as the PET scan date and results approach
- The depression will not stop be from doing what I need to today
- Adjusting to school and activities starting – I’m pretty tired by the end of the day
Oh Jennifer!! After all you have been through!! Am praying for you dear one!!!
I guess it’s inevitable that a hormone-blocking med is going to affect your mood in a huge way. So sorry, Jennifer! We will pray that the second med is much easier on you, and that all of your upcoming appointments are full of good news. Hugs to you!
I wish I could make it all better for you! But since I can’t I will do the next best thing and keep on keeping you and your family in my prayers. Keep holding tight to Jesus and he will carry you in your time of need. Love you all!
Prayers for you sweet Jennifer. Our prayer are with you every day.
Praying for all your needs and will continue to.
I am praying, Jennifer. You are loved ❤️ Nothing you have gone through is easy, and I pray that God gives you peace and grace.
I am praying for you dear friend. I am once again blown away by your perseverance, your grace, and your openness about all that you are going through. I pray that this new med has fewer side effects for you. I pray that you can get some help/relief from the depression creeping in and I am so proud of you for being aware and ready to tackle it. Love you! Praying specifically for your requests. xoxo
We too are praying for you.
Thank you Dear Jennifer for being so open and honest with all of us. As our prayers are said each and every day, it makes it easier to know what specific concerns to pray for. You remain in my heart and in my prayers every day. Sending lots of love and peace. Patti
Jennifer, I’m so sorry to hear you’re dealing with this. The side effects from the Aromatase Inhibitors are often unbearable. Ask your doctor about adding Effexor to help with the mood swings if you choose to continue to take the meds. I’ll be praying for your upcoming scan. God is still on the throne and He is still in control. Love and prayers my friend, Bonnie
I started a new pill last week and so far, it’s much better. Someone else told me about Effexor, so I’m ready to ask for it if I need to. Thanks Bonnie. 🙂