I spoke too soon......

It is Friday, June 4th. I've stated, at least twice, that I didn't have another appointment before my next chemo on June 11; and that things were hopefully going to slow down a little now. Looks like I spoke too soon.......

Over the past couple of days, I've been experiencing an increase in the pain and soreness in my right arm. Plus, I've noticed an increase in the amount of fluid around my incision and down my arm. Even my hand is puffy. Nothing major..........just enough to be bothersome. I'm more aware of it when I'm sitting still. I guess the most accurate word to describe it is an aching feeling.

The fluid buildup is called lymphedema, and it is a direct result of 25 lymph nodes being removed from my armpit. It was kinda inevitable, and once it starts, it is incurable. Doctors are not sure why some patients develop this and others don't. We were hoping that, because of my age, that I would be spared of this. But.........

I called my oncologist's office late yesterday afternoon instead of waiting another week 'til my chemo appointment. I received a call about 0845 this morning to go in and let her examine me. I left work and was there a little past nine. She ordered a stat ultrasound of my arm to make sure that the symptoms were not the result of a bloodclot. After waiting an extremely long time to be worked in, I was called back about 1220.

The good news is that I do not have a bloodclot in my arm, and that my circulation is extremely good as far as my circulatory system. Evidently, it's a different story with my lymph vessels. I have been referred to the lymphedema clinic, but the first appointment that was available was June 21st. So, once again, it's hurry up only to have to wait.

But..............I'm extremely grateful that I don't have a bloodclot. The last thing I need while undergoing chemo, (which reduces your blood's ability to clot), is to be receiving bloodthinners. So, I guess that's the silver lining in all of this. I just have this fear of having to wear a compression sleeve on my arm the rest of my life. It may seem trivial considering all I'm going thru, but who wants to wear something like that?? I have to admit that I'm tired and worn down, but everybody feels overwhelmed at some point. I guess today is my day.

But who knows? Maybe the swelling will be minimal and won't require that. Please agree with me in prayer that this will not be a big deal, and the aching and discomfort will resolve. I know God will not give me more than I can handle.

Okay, that's it for now. I'm getting ready to head back to Bear Grass. Rachel has a piano recital tonight at seven. Hope they don't have anything against baseball caps there.............

Have a good weekend,
Cindy