Monday, February 23, 2009

Secrets of the Soul, hidden in the Heart

lc1286



Life is a journey, with some smooth roads and some bumpy.

I went to the oncologist yesterday for my six month check-up, this one just involved donating a little blood and getting my lymph nodes felt. All went well except the onc wants another blood draw, he wants me to fast for 10 hours then have the blood taken. If everything looks ok, then that will be the end of it. If not, then he wants pictures.

I don’t mean to be so vague but he wouldn’t tell me a lot more than that. My CEA (colon cancer marker) levels were all fine. They always are. Even when the cancer was raging my blood did not show it. While I was going through chemo my Alk Phos was high, I guess that’s normal, the Alk Phos is one of the liver enzyme. Well, now 5 of my liver enzymes are high, although two of them only at the low end of high. So the onc, feels checking things out are definitely warranted, especially with my CEA history.

I asked him what these higher levels could indicate and he preferred to wait to discuss it if this fasting blood test comes back high. All he would say is that it indicates the liver is inflamed.

But, hey, I feel good, so I’m sure we’ll have good news when it’s all done. I did tell him all about my diet and he told me, “Way to go!”. I know Dennis was concerned that he would tell me to stop that. Especially when the nurse told me that the reason the oncologists like their patients “fluffy” is because then we have some extra to fall back on if the cancer does come back. But the onc was happy for me and agreed with how I’m going about it.

Through all this, I did figure out why I lacked the motivation to get back in shape. Cancer strikes you in ways you don’t always think of. And even when you’re in remission and think you have went back to a normal, well as normal as possible, life, you find remnants of cancer‘s effects. For me, being told I had a 50% shot at being alive in 5 years, didn’t really motivate me to do anything to get my body in better shape. So, stepping up and exercising and watching what I eat is a way I am taking control of my life back away from the cancer.

I have been worried about it coming back - cancer doesn’t fit into my life’s goals (does it anyone’s?). But I really am trying to stop letting the fear of its reappearance keep me from living life to the fullest.

So, while I’m trying really hard to think positively about the results of the next test, and trying to keep my family on this positive side too, you can bet there are worry niggles until we get answers. I’ll keep you guys in the loop.

lc1285



PS> While I’m horrible about getting on plurk and twitter, I have been trying to be better about facebook, so if you’re there come on over and friend me.

25 comments:

  1. A happy heart is good medicine.
    This has been such a happy place -- healing is here.

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  2. Thinking of you, and sending you all my good vibes for a good result of that test. Hugs, Lisa!

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  3. O.K. Lisa...you've just been friended by me, Sharon:) Hope all goes well!

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  4. Sending positive energy your way...

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  5. Saying a prayer for you that all is great!

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  6. I'm sending prayers and good thoughts your way! Keep those worry niggles at bay and know that all will be well.

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  7. You're in my thoughts and prayers. I love the term "fluffy." Can I use that.......................:)

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  8. When do you go in for the blood draw and fast?

    Sending you lots of love and saying prayers.

    ((HUGS))

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  9. Everything is going to be fine. I am here if you need anything! *hugs*

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  10. if getting back in shape makes you feel you're in control, then go for it!... the human psyche can do wonders to one's immune system... and don't dwell on that supposedly 5 years you only have... who knows, a zero would be added to 5, and life would be grand!...

    it is easier said than done about being positive about the situation, but i know you can do it... and there's many people around you who are hoping and praying that you'll stick around for many years... and it won't do good to disappoint them :)...

    you take care and think happy thoughts:)

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  11. Lisa : You have our best wishes to get through the tests safely. Take care

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  12. You are one amazing woman. I feel like bowing in your presence because I feel so unworthy of being in it! You are awesome! Positive thoughts for you from me coming your way!!XOXO

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  13. Lisa, I think you're doing everything right and you like this doctor, so I think you'll have great news. Bob's been on a different medical journey, and I'm always very glad when his doctors run test, to get a clearer view, a pain but worth it.

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  14. I sure hope you get good news this time around.
    I'll be thinking positive thoughts for you!

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  15. I admire your ideals and goals and pray that those numbers don't mean anything bad.

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  16. keep that thinking Lisa, hope nothing but the best!

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  17. Wishing for the best news possible Lisa. I'm a colon cancer survivor too - 7+ years. I can so relate to your comment that "cancer strikes you in ways you don't always think of." I'm still dealing with the aftershocks, and probably always will. Would love to chat with you more about it -- I don't twitter or flitter or any of that, but you can email me at teelgee7 AT gmail DOT com if that's something you'd be interested in.(A young friend recently commented that email is for old folks!)

    Positive attitude is a great healing tool!

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  18. Wishing you all the best, Lisa. Sending you lots of virtual hugs, prayers and positive thoughts.

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  19. Lisa sounds as if you are right on top of things!! I imagine it's quite hard waiting for answers...I'll wait with you! As always thinking of you and sending much love and hugs!! ps.....I am fluffy!!

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  20. Hang in there Lisa, I'm praying for the best results for you! My mom has had some close calls in the last year and just had a kidney removed a few weeks ago due to a growth (it was negative for cancer), so I know the scariness of it all. It IS hard waiting to get answers ~ I'll be thinking of you! :-)

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  21. You know margie and I hold nothing but good thoughts for you. As for the exercise/diet thing. What I hate most about it is that I know it is really really good medicine but I still resist ... day by day we do what we can do!

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  22. I am sending happy and positive thoughts your way. I hope everything is fine and keep on taking your life back!

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  23. Hi Lisa!

    Haven't visited in awhile and I just read your heartfelt post. I have a friend on Twitter and her name is ibeatcancrtwice
    I would like to introduce the two of you...first I will go and follow you so please follow me back.

    Sending you love and healing energy!

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  24. As an FYI, Lisa, you've inspired me once again. I've quoted part of this blog post on my blog, Studio Window, on March 4, 2009.

    Cameo @-->-->---

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  25. Keep the positive outlook. Life is what you make of it. You have a great family and wonderful friends. Stay strong. May god bless you.

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