Happy Friday!

While I know this might sound unbelievable...it is completely true, frustrating and on-going. Still no HERMARK results and therefore still no accurate HER2 status and herceptin.

I received an e-mail from my oncologist over 2 weeks ago which informed me that the block specimen they sent to CA was not a big enough sample to obtain accurate pathology on. They (CA) requested a bigger sample. My oncologist informed me that she requested a bigger sample from VA. After waiting for it for over 2 weeks, they (my oncologist) called VA to check the status as they hadn't received the block. Apparently, VA sent the block to Dana Farber in Boston, where it has sat for the past couple of weeks. My oncologist requested that Dana Farber send it up to NH. NH received it on Tuesday. They have sent it out to CA for the HERMARK testing. I have been told that it takes between 7-10 days for processing. Hopefully, we will have an accurate evaluation of the block by my next treatment (3/6). Again, will keep you all posted.

I also have a PET Scan scheduled for next week 3/5. This scan will evaluate the 5 lesions that were indicated on the 12/3/08 PET Scan. It will show whether the treatment has been successful in killing the previous noted cancer cells as well as evaluate if there are additional ones. Will keep you posted on the results. I will also go down to Dana Farber to see Dr. Nancy Lin after this scan. The plan will be to see her after each PET.

The Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy (removal of both fallopian tubes and ovaries) was successful yesterday. The surgery itself went well. I have 4 incisions about an inch long as a result (belly button, about 2-3 inches lower than belly button, and one on both the rt./lf. side of my abdomen). The doctor said it will take about 6-8 weeks for complete healing but I should feel better after about 2 weeks. The surgery was scheduled for 8 a.m. and it took about an hour. We did experience a scare after the surgery. I had rested and recovered for several hours after the surgery (I was pretty knocked out from the meds.). Prior to getting ready to leave, I requested to use the restroom. In the bathroom, I felt very dizzy and nauseated. Upon returning to my room, the nurse (Susan-great nurse), took my blood pressure. It unfortunately was extremely low (70/41). As a result, the room became packed with about 5 additional nurses, doctor, and assistants. They had to re-access my port and begin additional fluids. This was a little anxiety provoking for us but luckily it came up (90's/40's) and they finally let me leave the hospital. We got home around 7 p.m. I was extremely nauseated again after the car ride home and went right to bed. My throat also hurts some as a result of being intubated. I am trying to take it easy and rest, while also being attentive to Alayna and Khaya.

This is going to be all for tonight. I am tired and losing my steam for typing. I will work more on updating this weekend.

I hope that you are all well, healthy, happy, and looking forward to a great w/e.

Until the next posting...take care!

Lisa