I realized this morning that I’ve been so busy with work that I never posted an update that I got my appointment with the oncologist scheduled for Monday, June 1st at 3pm.
There’s nothing like taking a call on your cell phone while in the middle of a work conference call on your computer (no video, conveniently, so they couldn’t tell I stopped paying attention to them briefly). So, I didn’t have a lot of time to ask questions.
I did follow up with a message of questions the next day, which Michelle called back to answer on my voice mail, as I had missed her return call. The main questions were to make sure she was able to get all the relevant images she needed from the other facilities and to ask about the oncotype test, which we hadn’t known about whether or not the surgeon had requested.
My understanding about the oncotype test is that it’s a good indicator to help determine whether chemo will be beneficial in a individual’s case. Her voice mail back said that the test had not been ordered and the oncologist had said it wasn’t necessary so the surgeon did not request it.
Now, I’m not really sure what that means for me…is it not necessary because I’m estrogen+ and HER2/neu+ so I automatically fall into the category that requires it? Is it an age thing? Or is she going to talk me through it and say it’s not necessary for specific reasons? Given that she wants an in person appointment rather than a video call, it FEELS like that puts things on the side of needing chemo because…well…it just does, rather than a video call where it’s still a conversation but not as effective as face to face (masked).
So, I’m hedging my bets and mentally preparing for that conversation and resulting treatment and glad that my IV bruise from surgery has gone away even if it’s still a bit tender and I have the smallest of scars where the IV was. Cause you know, in all of this, one of my biggest concerns is how many times are they going to stick me with a needle…
So, more waiting to find out the answers to my questions of why we did not need an oncotype test (and if and when I start chemo).
Meanwhile, our new backyard patio furniture is coming later today, yay! Early enough to enjoy for a couple of evenings before it rains this weekend (of course). Although, to be fair, I’ll take the rain over the 98° of the other day, which was so not fun to be working in by early afternoon.
Next update after my appointment with (hopefully) news on next treatment steps and timing.
Have a good rest of May everyone!
My Journey 