I don’t even know where to begin. This has been a good day albeit a tiring one. What makes it good? Hmmm?? Spending time with my children. Getting some important health things accomplished and hearing news that didn’t make me crumble.
As you know I had bone marrow taken about two weeks ago and, let me tell you, it was even more painful than the first two times I had it done. I was badly bruised for quite some time afterward and I still feel some pain as a result. Thankfully, the bruising has started to fade.
The results of that test and the MRI were explained to me today. The MRI confirmed what the x-ray showed and picked up on a few small lesions that were under or overlapping the one that the bone survey detected. Because of this I will be getting a full-body MRI – from top of head to feet – to see if there are any other lesions present. If there are then I have “full-blown” multiple myeloma. My bone marrow shows that I am producing more plasma cells than I should be and I have already been diagnosed with plasmacytoma, which is cancer. Here’s a definition that I found on CancerAnswers.com: “Plasmacytoma is basically a cancer of the plasma cells, meaning that they are multiplying out of control.” In layman’s terms, and how the PA explained to me, my bone marrow is making plasma cells more than it should.
The exact treatment plan will not been determined until all the additional testing is done (further results will be received on February 1st), including another blood workup where they’re planning on taking a gallon of blood (okay, slight exaggeration). And, to top it off, mild osteoporosis is present. What I can tell you thus far is next week I begin infusions to treat the osteoporosis. And, as far as the cancer treatment: If it is multiple myeloma I will begin a serious treatment plan and be put on the list for a stem cell transplant.
This is the way I look at it: I’m fighting cancer. Period. I do not like to say I “have” cancer. It doesn’t have me; if you know what I mean. As I learn more about what is going on within my body I will do a better job of relaying it and understanding it. For now, I wanted to share with you what is going on “in this woman’s world!”
My instructions thus far are to get a lot of rest and eat healthily. I have a new addition to my medicine family to help with an absolutely, terrible and awful pain in my neck. Right now, even as I type, I’m dosing off. Although I will try to blog hop, comment and do all the things I normally do I suspect that resting is going to be at the top of my list for quite some time.
I really want to thank those who have sent well wishes, prayers and kind words my way. You’ll never know how very much it’s appreciated.
14 folks a chattin':
My heart, thoughts, and prayers go out to you, my friend. You are a very strong and inspirational woman. You will beat this!
Rest, rest, rest! Eating right when we feel sick can be a challenge, but it's so important. Do whatever you need to do to keep yourself strong--physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
I'll keep praying! Big hugs to you!
Love you and praying for you. I think your attitude is the correct one. It does not have you, that evil thing. Love and hugs. :O)
I will keep you in prayer!
Hugs and prayers to you sis!!
Praying for you, my friend. Get as much rest as you can. Do you have someone coming to help you with the kids?
Holy Crap, Petula! When did all of this pop up???! I wish I could be there to just give you a big squeeze and tell you everything is gonna be alright.
Please keep me abreast of what's going on. I truly care. But I think you know that, right?
Keep pushing on sister! Like you said, you're fighting Cancer. Prayers are with you. xoxo
Be strong in your fight, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
I haven't been by in a while, and I hate that you are going through this. I will be keeping you, and your family,in my prayers.
You guys made tears come to my eyes - thanks so much for the words, prayers and love.
Lin, I'll definitely keep you in the loop.
Stacey, No one is planning to come as of yet, but two close friends are committed to being available, Amber's roommate will bring her home when she needs/wants and I'll definitely have to ask for help.
Thanks again for being here... I love you all!
You are in my prayers and I agree with you that you will win this fight! Stay strong, rest, and be encouraged my sis!
Oh Petula! big (((HUGS))) and prayers sent your way! I am so sorry you have to go through this but know just from the little bit we've emailed back and forth that you are a strong woman with a strong will and you WILL kick this thing's butt!
Hope you've been able to rest and keep your spirits high!
Holy crap! What the hell!? I'm so sorry I didn't see this sooner, sweetheart! Was reading your most recent post, and my heart sank when I saw "diagnoses"... What can I do? Is there anything I can do to help?? Hugs!!!
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