This Too Shall Pass

I met with my oncologist today and he advised me that last week’s MRI shows the tumour has shrunk from 30mm to 17mm — this is such amazingly good news and, quite honestly, a very welcome morale booster. 🙌

Apparently, my case was even discussed at the weekly team meeting because I’ve been experiencing the most horrendous side effects, which have required several emergency visits to hospital for extra fluids and treatment. I’m not quite sure whether to feel special or slightly alarmed about that! 😂

The downside is that I’ll still have to carry on with the chemotherapy for now. However, given how badly I’ve been reacting to the treatment, they may reduce the dose of some of the drugs by up to 20%, which should hopefully make the next couple of cycles a little more bearable.

They’ll review everything again after another two cycles, with a view to a lumpectomy later in the autumn.

So, after what has felt like a particularly gruelling few months, it’s incredibly encouraging to know that the horrible chemo is actually doing what it is supposed to. There’s still a way to go, but knowing that the nasty evil invader has gone from plum-sized to grape-sized feels like a pretty significant step in the right direction. 🍇

I also want to say how incredibly grateful I am to the whole team for the care and support they’ve given me throughout the treatment so far. Despite how difficult the last few months have been, I’ve always felt valued, cared for and, importantly, listened to. Knowing that my experience and how I’m coping are being taken seriously makes such a difference, and I really can’t thank them and the NHS enough. ❤️

My mantra throughout the treatment so far has been: “I have felt better, and I WILL feel better…” 💪🎉❤️

And, for once, This too shall pass feels like a rather more believable statement.