Skip to main content

Still Clear and Loving Life!

As many who have had a bout with melanoma know, it is not something that is "cured".  As I have experienced with my 2 bouts is that is can come back at any time and without any warning.  One of my big reasons for doing the clinical trial was because I wanted the best chance to catch the "next" melanoma as soon as possible.  As part of the clinical trial, I have regular visits with my doctor and regular scans.  Though I have had a few scares, luckily I have had clear scans now for 4+ years.  As the doctor at Huntsman told me, I am currently the patient who has been in the trial the longest at Huntsman.  It is to the point now that I it has been recommended that I return to seeing a dermatologist and my visits to Huntsman will not be as frequent.

Though the news is great I still have in the back of my mind the question of when the "next one" will surface. Because I have decided not to worry about what I can't control, I am moving on cautiously but not letting it limit what I want to do.  I still umpire baseball, travel, enjoy working outdoors, etc.  I am cautious but not reckless.

To those fighting the fight, I wish you the best and a lot of luck!!  I have realized that cancer is simply a disease that affects the limitations of the human body but does not limit the spirit that lives inside me!!  I can determine how I will react and live my life and I choose not to let cancer control it!!
Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

This treatment I felt like a pin cushion!

It's been about a week since I completed my latest round of treatment. Of course I went up on Thursday for blood draws and CT scans. About three weeks ago, I was at UVRMC getting an MRI of my back. During the last three months, I have experienced pain in my hip especially if I sit down for more than about a half hour. The pain will radiate down my right leg. Nicole spoke with Dr. Reichman about it and he wanted the MRI. So, I tell this because I was given contrast during that MRI and had to have an IV started. When I went to HCI on Thursday, I went to the lab to get my blood draw. Normally, to prevent getting "stuck" multiple times, the lab will leave the IV in until I come back on Friday and get the infusion. After leaving the lab, I went to CT. In CT, I was told the IV I had would not work because it was in my hand and the test that was ordered required a larger needle and the IV to be above my elbow. Unfortunately, the tech missed the first IV, in my left ...
1 comment
Read more

Wow I Hurt! Some of the Side Effects!

Since my last infusion, I have noticed changes a lot earlier in this round than normal.  I usually notice "issues" near the end of the treatment cycle.  I have noticed more and more that I am forgetful.  I have trouble remembering names and every once in a while I forget what I am talking about.  It could be just my age as well as the drug. I have been playing basketball twice a week to stay in shape and to stay active.  I have been doing this for over a year.  Just in about the last month, I noticed that I get very sore especially after sitting for more that about 30 minutes.  I wake up in the morning and my joints are very sore.  My back will be stiff, my shoulders will be sore, and by hips, knees, and ankles will be very sore.  It makes it difficult at times to simply walk.  Walking up and down the stairs is also very difficult.  I have noticed that places that I have previously injured are also more sore than usual.  I ha...
Post a Comment
Read more