Just wanted to share some good news I recently received. I had my most recent scans and follow-up with my oncologist in August, and I'm happy to report that there are still no signs of any cancer at this time!!!! To say I'm relieved is, a major understatement!
Next scan and follow-up: 6 months. I am also monitored by an ENT (outside of my oncology group). I will see my ENT next Friday, he will do a scope of the upper part of my throat and a general check-up.
Things I am still experiencing 2 years later as side effects from treatment: Reflux and Gastrointestinal issues: Taking prescription medicine (likely for many years) for GI issues. I tried to taper off the medicine, but it was not a good decision (lol) and I ended up in the Emergency Room. I also have developed a small hiatal hernia. Made many changes to my diet. Dry mouth (always!), I never leave home without water, and I always have it on my nightstand at bedtime. Muscle Fibrosis: Neck and Should pain from the high doses of radiation-managed with physical therapy (discharged), regular exercise 4-5x week: weightlifting and walking. Lymphedema, irreversible, but manageable. Fatigue: Major improvements I would say in the last 6 months. Not needing as many naps! But, if I need one, I don't fight it! Resuming foods I had before treatment: Nothing too tomato-based; minimal chocolate (sad!); less coffee (I'm a Starbucks girlie), down to one coffee a day (from 2-3 daily); little to no citrus; minimal alcohol (I didn't drink much beforehand), but I do like a good bourbon straight or an Old-Fashioned. I would love to have some chili as fall approaches; however, it would be so incredibly painful! So, I will make it for my husband! Work hours: I work 32 hours a week, and barely getting through 32 hours. We typically work 40 hour work weeks here, but 32 is still considered full-time. I went back to work 1 month after treatment ended, which was insanely difficult. Would not recommend if you don't have to! Thyroid: My thyroid was starting to become a bit underactive, I was definitely in a slump, but have been able to improve my levels so far without medication, and I am feeling less tired.
I think I have little moments of PTSD for sure. If I think about it too long, it' s a lot to digest. I do my very best to live in the 'now' and not worry about things from 2 years ago or things 6 months from now.
I'm incredibly grateful to be here. Every day, even if it's a bad day, is a blessing. Everyone in treatment or post-treatment, please please keep fighting! It's really hard, but, you can do all the hard things! There is a light on the other side, just keep going! ~Tara
