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Tumor Board

1/12/2013

10 Comments

 
Friday morning, 1-11-13, the tumor board reviewed my case. This group is led by my nurse navigator, Laurie, and consists of about fourteen different physicians from all different specialties to review current or new breast cancer cases. Laurie called me to let me know how it went.
So I guess after my surgery I will be meeting with an oncologist to discuss the next course of treatment. Because I tested positive for the HER2 receptors, it is recommended to have a type of chemotherapy that specifically targets those receptors. (Herceptin is the name of this drug, for you medical people reading this!) I guess if it is used alone, it doesn't have the same side effects that many chemo drugs do. The bummer part is that the usual regimen is once every three weeks for 52 weeks.
Also, given that my KI 67 score (another test from the biopsy which predicts the chance of recurrence) was 51%, this also is criteria for being more aggressive with treatment.
Again, until I have the surgery, we won't know if there is lymph node involvement. I'm still very hopeful there is not! If there is,however, I may need another type of chemo drug along with the herceptin. So still need lots of prayers on that one! Thanks!
Genetic testing was also recommended from the board. Just as a precautionary measure for offspring and siblings. However, irregardless, ALL of you gals should be getting screening mammos at the appropriate time! If I had waited on this one, it could have been much more devastating considering the nature of my particular cancer.
So that was part of my roller coaster ride yesterday.
I also went in and got preregistered at Renown for the surgery.
Now I just need to find someone to stay with the doggies while we're gone for a day or two! My usual pet sitters both have jobs now!! Yay for David and Chris!!!'
And so it goes...<3
10 Comments
Mary
1/12/2013 06:23:37 am

Wow, not only do you have support from family and friends, but you have a great medical support system! In years past,when told you had cancer, you just had to trust that the drs were doing everything in your best interest. What you just described shows me they care about You: Lois. Not just another breast cancer case. And we're going to educate you on our findings so that you can participate in your recovery. That alone is a big boost!
I have time off from Thurs to Mon next week. If you wouldlike me to come up, I don't know what I can do besides provide a distraction and help get your house in order for after the surgery.
Love you, Mary.

Reply
Lois Welch
1/14/2013 10:56:11 am

Yes, Mary, I am feeling blessed all the way around. I feel like the medical team is top notch. It's few and far between anymore that you feel like more than just another number. It's nice to think that in this situation, they truly do have my best interest at heart.
While I appreciate your offer to come up this week, I really don't want you to have to come over to this very icy, very cold area right now. I would be a nervous wreck thinking about you driving over the mountains right now, knowing how you feel about that. I know you would totally do that for me, but I really have things pretty good here. Scott has been a huge help and support, so I think we're just going to chill this weekend and relax! I'm going to listen to my wonderful meditation CDs that Lou sent me, and just be in as good a frame of mind as possible! I know you will be here in Spirit, and I appreciate that so much!
Love you big sister!
Lo

Reply
Penny
1/14/2013 11:09:27 am

I agree with Mary...It is amazing how well all of the doctors and staff communicate with you and each other about your care. I'm so thankful that God has put Scott into your life especially now so that he can support you.I love you Lois...Stay Strong!
penny

Reply
Vicki Sparks
1/15/2013 03:14:34 pm

Lois, you are in my thoughts and prayers. I know that you are a fighter just like Mariclaire and Jeanne--it's in the Pfeiffer genes. You will find the strength to deal with this terrible disease. Love you.

Reply
Lois Welch
1/15/2013 11:56:38 pm

Thank you, Vicki. I'm really counting on those strong Pfeiffer/Widman genes to come through as I meander through this crazy experience! So far, the hugest part of this whole thing has been the love and support I have received from every little corner of my life! Thank you for being a part of that!
I have always been in awe of Jeanne and Mariclaire, and every single person I have ever known that has had to walk this journey. I can only hope I will be half the shining example I have always thought they were! Pillars of strength, for sure!
Love you, too

Reply
Phyllis
1/16/2013 01:03:37 am

Hi Lois,
Just want you to know I'm thinking of you and praying for you! Love your blog! Hugs!!
Phyllis

Reply
Lois Welch
1/18/2013 07:17:55 am

Thanks Phyllis!

Reply
Debbie Senter
1/18/2013 12:49:45 am

Hi Lois, Thank you so much for this blog. Not only is it facinating but inspirational, I've scheduled my mammo exam. So thank you for that too. I did want to mention that Guy's brother had his heart surgery @ Renoun and he & his wife were very impressed with everything from the facilities to all the staff. His wife was allowed to sleep right in the room with him & said it was wonderful to know how he was doing all the time. Our thoughts & prayers are with you, please let know if there's anything I can do for you! Oh, BTW, what shoe size are you, there's something I want to make for you. :) Debbie

Reply
Lois Welch
1/18/2013 07:17:02 am

Thanks, Debbie. I think Renown has come a long way! I had my last biopsy there and Scott had his back surgery there. The Tahoe tower is really pretty nice.
I'm so happy you have made a mammo appt! Good for you!
My shoe size is 8.
Say hello to Guy, and stay in touch.
Love ya, Lois

Reply
Debbie
1/21/2013 01:02:30 pm

Sure will be thinking positive thoughts for you tomorrow! Size 8 it is then, thanks! Can you email me your mailing address: dsenter@gotsky.com so I can send your surprise? Thanks! <3




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