Thursday, September 10, 2009

Oophorectomy

I am scheduled for an oophorectomy tomorrow morning at 8AM. Feeling a little anxious and irritable as I am not sure what to expect for surgery or after. I know that it will all go well, but nervous about being put under for the first time and what will I feel like afterwards. The tamoxifen that I take is suppose to put me into menopause, but I still have some estrogen in my body, so having the ovaries taken out will definitely put me into menopause and that is my worry for the after effects of this surgery. Although I think that my body has been preparing me this week as it seems that I am having more hot flashes then normal the past few days. I will be taking a few days off from work as they are doing it laparoscopically, so not much down time when the ovaries and tubes are removed this way. If all goes well I should be on my way home by noon tomorrow. My mom is one the way up to help with the boys this weekend and they are excited to see their grandma and spend time with her as one is still up asking when will she be here.

I will start a new drug called Femera shortly after my surgery. This is another hormonal therapy drug that is for post menopausal women. The tamoxifen that I am taking is for pre menopausal, so I will no longer be on that. Unfortunately on Monday I have to have my bloodwork, MUGA scan and CT scan done in order to continue my Herceptin treatment. I never look forward to this time. If only I could freeze time. I had an appointment on Tuesday and they would not give me the Herceptin as I have had 3 treatments since my last MUGA scan and they want to make sure that my heart is staying strong since I am so young. I feel that I'm in good care when they take precautionary steps such as that. I will meet with the oncologist on Wednesday for the results and will then have my Herceptin infusion if all is well after that.

We had a great time on our vacation in Branson. What beautiful country and we had great weather while we were there to enjoy our time off from everyday normal life. The boys both celebrated their birthdays while we were there. I can't believe that Griffin is already 1 and Brock 4. Time flies. When I got home, it seemed as I was thinking back to what we were experiencing a year ago from that time, all the worries, the unknowns, and fears. I did not sign up for this, but I think that I have been a team player and what I have experience has made a difference in my life. I don't sweat the small stuff anymore and in general enjoy everyday things in my life that I used to take for granted, which we all need to do, as no one knows what lies ahead of them. Thanks to everyone for all the well wishes for tomorrow.


Griffin enjoying his birthday cake


Brock swimming at the pool in Branson

4 comments:

Aunt Brenda said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Aunt Brenda said...

Dearest Nicole,
My prayers are with you through your surgery and everyday. You are an amazing young woman who has become such a strong fighter. I know God and your dad are watching over you very carefully. Stay strong!
Love always,

Anonymous said...

Good Luck on your surgury today Nicole,You have been in good hands for quite some time now so this surgury is some of that small stuff that goes along with all that big stuff you have been through this last year. So take care of that beautiful family you have,your boys are so so cute!!!! You are always in our prayers.Lov C&D Griffin

Aunt Brenda said...

Dearest Nicole,
I am praying that your blood work and scans have good results for you. Stay strong!
Love,
Aunt Brenda