Those are the words of my radiation oncologist, on seeing the strange bruising that spreads out from the radiation field on my chest. Apparently, I'm unusual and inexplicable. Not news for many of you, I'm sure. My bloodwork appears to be normal for this stage of recovery, so its not platelets, or anemia, or other emia's we don't want to think about, thankfully. The best she could come up with is that blood vessels are among the structures that sustain the most collateral damage during radiation, and mine are complaining loudly. Not that she's ever seen it before. Sigh. As a friend who's husband has travelled the radiation route likes to say, radiation is a gift that just keeps on giving.
So we carry on. My skin in the radiation field is essentially healed. That's a HUGE step forward, and I'm grateful. Tomorrow is another echocardiogram, and I trust that my ticker continues to be up for the regular herceptin onslaught.
Speaking of things that are weird, my left armpit no longer sweats. Supportive Husband: "Well, that's half your problem solved, anyhow." Grrr.
My work right now continues to be healing, healing and more healing. I'm focusing on good food, regular exercise, and afternoon naps. On my walk in the sunshine today, a milkweed seed blew into my hand. Thanks in no small part to the gorgeous and grounded prayers in David Adam's "The Rhythm of Life: Celtic Daily Prayer," it felt very much like a gift.
As do many other things, this gorgeous fall!
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| Need that one stencilled on my forehead. |
Thanks to all of you for your ongoing love and support. Couldn't do it without you. An extra thanks to my faithful comment posters - bloggers crave comments, and your efforts are
much appreciated :)
Ah! So good to get an update! I'm thankful that you were able to find a few things to make you smile the last few weeks; I don't envy the journey you are on and find you my mind often these days. May your healing continue!
ReplyDeleteI like reading your updates and it doesn't surprise me in the least that you are experiencing extra unique things through your radiation. As you mentioned, it's appropriate for an extra unique person like you!
ReplyDeleteAlso, I love that picture of you and Supportive Husband in the fall leaves. Beautiful!
And I'm not clear if you want us to pray that your left armpit starts sweating again or that your right one stops. I suppose I'll just pray "Your will be done." :)
Ms. LBF,
ReplyDeleteThe Shanley contingent is delighted that you are taking steps (of many types) forward. We continue to think of you and offer prayers.
That's a great shot of you and Mr. Ken in the leaves.
I have nothing further to add about armpits and sweat deprivation. :-)