Three and a half years ago, a skilled cardiothoracic surgeon performed a thoracotomy and separated two of my ribs to look for remaining signs of metastatic endometrial cancer. He found one last cancerous node and removed it. I've had PET scans every six month since then to check on my status.
I just got word that my latest PET scan is, once again, clear of any return of cancer. I continue to beat the odds. I was diagnosed with stage IV endometrial adenocarcinoma in May of 2012. A round of radiation and chemotherapy, along with two surgeries, and I remain cancer free.
A few weeks ago, I started a yoga class with my friend Lisa, and I've noticed, for the first time, I don't have to fight to forget my cancer while in class. I'm totally in the moment and free of worrying thoughts about cancer regrowth, PET scans, doctors' appointments, and the things in my life that I might miss if my prognosis turned downward. What freedom!
No, I'm not out of the woods yet, but with each additional clear scan, I get closer and closer to putting this stage of my life further in the back of my mind and concentrate instead on my family and my friends. It's nice to focus on things like vacation planning, college searches, and holiday get-togethers and not on the microscopic growth of those little nasty cancer cells.
Thanks to all of you who have made this journey with me. I couldn't have done it without you.
Hooray Beth, that is great news, so happy for you!!! All my very best wishes for the future! Take care
ReplyDeleteAngela xxx
I rejoice for you and your dear family. WELL DONE BETH. And come and see us over here in the 'old world' very soon. xxxxx
ReplyDeleteI'm So So Happy to hear this!!! You continue to beat those odds, because you have a lot of living to do! Love you!!!
ReplyDeleteI stumbled onto your blog after searching for the last five days for an endometrial cancer site. I was diagnosed with stage IIIa 11/17. I had a full hysterectomy 11/5. Going in they said we caught it early grade 1 and most likely stage 1. When I went for follow up shocked to hear it was grade 2 and stage IIIa. Scheduled for 18 weeks of chemo, once a week. I have read a lot of your journey and will continue to follow. Glad you are a fighter and doing well. I live in Georgia as well.
ReplyDeleteI am truly humbled that you found and want to follow my blog. You never know when you throw something out there if anyone will benefit from sharing. Thank you for letting me know you are out there, fighting the good fight too. Best of luck to you as you pursue your treatment. Feel free to come back and post anytime.
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