Focus

Despite my best efforts to the contrary, I seem to be focusing on the 10% chance of recurrence rather than the 90% chance of survival. My subconscious is now turning every strange physical occurence, no matter how minor, into A Symptom Of Something Bigger... namely lung, liver or bone cancer.

Didn't think I'd need it, but I think some quality time with a support group is in order.

Not leaving the baby AND not living in fear of it.

p.s. Surgeon and MD do not think recent problem is related to lymphedema but recommended a visit w a specialist to learn more about it.

Choosing not to worry about it

Routine diagnostic mammogram today turned up calcification on the OTHER side. Was given the choice to have a biopsy, but also told it was probably DCIS and that waiting 6 months to size it again will not affect treatment options.

Trip to lymphedema clinic imminent, though surgeon says the problem may be temporary.

Tamoxifen, so far

The hot flashes don't seem more frequent, but they're definitely more severe. They've gone from primarily head and arm-based to full-body, and with prickly heat, which is quite uncomfortable.

Gonna be a looooooooong summer.

Lymphedema

Really? *sigh*

I work on a hot keyboard all day, so I guess I shouldn't be shocked to wake up to stiff fingers and knuckles. Plus I'm pushing 50, so.... finger stiffness happens in the morning. But this morning I realized that the swelling and stiffness were noticeably worse on my cancer (left) side. I'm right-handed, so it's not as if I over-used my left arm.

And I've not even started any real exercising yet. Research needed.

Reasons to love having very (very) short hair

1. No fuzz factor on rainy or damp days.
2. No management issues on windy days, while exercising, or while driving one's convertible.
3. No bed-head or hat-head.
4. No combs, brushes, or products are necessary.
5. No split ends.
6. No bad hair days.
7. Wash 'n' wear.
8. Makes hot flashes easier to bear.
9. Presumably will make summer in general easier to bear.

Wow. I didn't realize I had so many good reasons!

Returning to normal

.. or as close to normal as I ever get, anyway.

Got out the banjer last night, and looked for the gee-tar. Subjected the toddler to some stompin' old-time music tonight as well as multiple versions of our special song.