3 Thumbs Up

As part of my follow up in post cancer treatment I had my yearly physical with my PCP, 1 month follow up with the radiation oncologist and my 6 month follow up with my surgeon. All with glowing reports.

My PCP called me the day after I was diagnosed to check to see if I needed anything. She's pretty great. She told me that she is not often surprised, but was shocked when they sent her my cancer findings especially because when I had seen her in March 2012 there was no lump. We reviewed last years physical and the great (negative) results of my mammogram. She mailed me the actual mammogram report. I am hanging it on the wall next to my radiation completion certificate. She and I agreed to check a couple of vitamin levels (B12 an D) to make sure that chemo didn't wipe out those stores as well. One physical exam done, with good results. The blood work is still pending, however was an experience to have done. The tests have to be done fasting which means I hadn't eaten anything since 5:30 pm the night before and then went and did a track workout. Needless to say I was ready to eat the lab tech when she couldn't find a vein. My left arm is still mad about having chemo infusions and all the veins ran away. The first vein my right arm said no after the needle went in. The 2nd vein in my hand filled 3 out of the 4 tubes. 35 minutes for blood work with a grumbly stomach did not make me the most patient patient.

My radiation oncologist was pleased to see that I have zero skin affects left. She did the second thorough physical exam of the week. Her main concern was that I had a vacation scheduled. I love it! (For the record, yes I do have a vacation scheduled). Her nurse and I discussed running shoes. 2 out 2 excellent follow ups.

My surgeon was happy with the mammogram and happy to see I have hair now. I asked him about the transient pain I have while doing dips/bench press. He said that it me breaking up scar tissue and "not to be afraid" in the gym. He also did a thorough physical exam and we were 3 for 3. I also was happy to double check that I have no restrictions in the gym. I did dips (and I think all the scar tissue from the lymph nodes has been broken up) and finally did bench press with the bar! Getting back to normal one exercise at a time.

While at the gym my favorite Kelly Clarkson song came on and it is one I have listened too a lot since August. If I am in your car and it comes on the radio I apologize, but I will crank it and fist pump it out. This is my favorite video for it by the Seattle Children's Hospital Heme-Onc floor.