Cycle 2 - A picture paints a thousand words

In Cycle 2 I am scheduled to have an important test: CT Scan on 31 August. It is significant for me in that it is the first post-chemo test that will measure the tumours and compare them with my baseline data.

I am hoping that the chemotherapy (2 cycles so far) will have stopped the tumour growth, and hopefully have stopped new tumours from appearing. My participation in the Picasso III study will continue if this is the case. My appointment to explore the results of the CT Scan will be on the following Wednesday 7 September. This is also the beginning of Cycle 3 and the next round of Chemo is scheduled for the 7/9, 8/9 and 9/9.

What is CT Scanning of the Body?
CT scanning, sometimes called CAT scanning, is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. CT scanning combines special x-ray equipment with sophisticated computers to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body. These cross-sectional images of the area being studied can then be examined on a computer monitor, printed or transferred to a CD. CT scans of internal organs, bones, soft tissue and blood vessels provide greater clarity and reveal more details than regular x-ray exams. Using specialized equipment and expertise to create and interpret CT scans of the body,  radiologists can more easily diagnose problems such as cancers. It is one of the best and fastest tools for studying the chest, abdomen and pelvis because it provides detailed, cross-sectional views of all types of tissue.
It is often the preferred method for diagnosing many different cancers, since the image allows a physician to confirm the presence of a tumor and measure its size, precise location and the extent of the tumor's involvement with other nearby tissue.

What does the equipment look like?

The CT scanner is typically a large, box like machine with a hole, or short tunnel, in the center. You will lie on a narrow examination table that slides into and out of this tunnel. Rotating around you, the x-ray tube and electronic x-ray detectors are located opposite each other in a ring, called a gantry. The computer workstation that processes the imaging information is located in a separate room, where the technologist operates the scanner and monitors your examination.

I will let you know how it all goes,
Cheers,
Georgia

A few personal moments: brothers in arms

Well, to my surprise the brothers have come on board with some lovely No. 3 hairstyles to match my new appearance (a week ago - not much hair to speak of now!) To honour the moment, I will try to feature them in a couple of pictures...

Brother number 2 and georgia in the lovely pre-spring melbourne sunshine last week

Brother number 3 with a surprised nephew - very cute!

Brother number 1 showing us all his brave new world



Brother -in -law extraordinaire!

The new look Georgia during Cycle 2 Chemo at Peter Mac: color coordinated and calm


I hope you liked the show!

Love your life,
Georgia

Cycle 2 is progressing well

Hi to all,

I have just completed Cycle 2: Day 1, 2 and 3 of Chemotherapy. It has been far less stressful doing it all for a second time as Team Georgia is in place, I am familiar with the processes and staff at Peter Mac Hospital, and have been priviledged to meet several of the volunteer staff who have made my visits there relaxed and welcoming. I was offered a beautiful hand massage prior to chemo on Day 1 (Wednesday)

I have experienced a little nausea after Day 1, but am getting better at managing what to expect on certain days. In Cycle 1 my energy levels (now that I look back) were lower in week 2 than in week 3.So I know not to plan much until week 3 now.

I have booked in for a Hair appointment at Peter Mac to do the final deed as my hair now is very short and disappearing fast. Oh well, it was bound to happen. I have plenty of scarves, beanies and hats and may look at a wig as well ....I'm told I look OK but people can be kind at times!

I have also booked into Peter Mac for a "Look good Feel great" session at the end of the Cycle to look good and feel great. It should be fun and ofcourse the Volunteers donate stacks of stuff to give away. They are amazing and worth supporting if anyone is keen to support Peter Mac.

Thanks also to the bloggers who have sent messages. Your words of encouragement mean a lot to me.
I have also had wonderful emails and phone contact with old friends and I have appreciated your mention of love, concern and prayers.

Not that it always has to be that way, but I am in fine spirits and feeling good and strong.

Much love,
Georgia

Cycle 1 Week 3

Greeting to all.
It's the last week of Cycle 1 and this whole cycle has been full of new learnings and discoveries about Sarcoma. I have been very busy trying to relax and not go to work and not do too much at all. This is a difficulty that I am determined to succeed in no matter how hard it may seem....

So, the common side effects of Doxorubicin are very interesting indeed. I am travelling well but not a miracle worker and so yes, I have experenced a few minor side-effects.
Common side effects include:
1.Risk of infection due to reduction of white blood cells.When the white blood cell count becomes low (usually between treatment cycles) this is called Neutropenia, but then blood counts recover by the next cycle. This is why an injection is given straight after the chemo days and why I have blood tests every Wednesday after chemo (Day 8 and Day 15 of each cycle.)
2. Development of anaemia or bleeding more easily. If the red blood cell count becomes low (anaemia), the person may feel tired or look pale, or may bruise or bleed more easily.
3. Nausea and/or vomiting. This is quite common and many medications are given to avoid this problem. I did experience this on Day 7 unfortunately when I also had a terrible migraine for a few days.
4. Tiredness.  Fatigue is common, especially around Day 8, 9 and 10. I am told light exercise can help reduce or prevent fatigue. I have not felt a lack of energy, but am looking into getting an exercise bike to add it to my repertoire.
5. Hair loss and thinning. This will normally occur within 3-4 weeks of beginning treatment. The hair will grow back about 6 weeks after treatment has finished. I have brought some lovely new scarves and as some of you may already know, I have a great collection of hats. Hair loss has just begun and I think I am as ready as I can be for this....
6. Mouth and teeth. Chemotherapy can affect the lining of the mouth and throat. This can cause soreness in the mouth and throat and mouth ulcers and infections can occur. I have had a little swelling around my gums over the past week.
7. Food can taste strange and appetite can change.I have noticed differences from time to time, but I am healthily eating and drinking well, and am still making my way through the Good Food Guide and Cheap Eats of Melbourne. You can't keep a good gal down!
8. Urine discolored. Doxorubicin is orange/red and turns your urine orange/red straight after treatment- it was very exciting... (I have just brought an orange watch off ebay to match!)
9. Treatment may affect how the heart works. After several doses, doxo can cause heart problems (toxicity). That is why I have heart tests before starting chemo and have my heart checked during chemo. All is well with my heart and "it is well with my soul!".
10. Skin may be affected. During and sometimes after treatment, the skin is sensitive to the sun. It may also become a little darker due to an increase in pigment.

So, in all honesty, a little nausea, mixed with a few extra hours of sleep is all that I have experienced in Cycle 1. And vanity, vanity all is vanity, I will lose my lovely locks of hair very soon. When I need to, I will come to terms with that one. Just remember, no jokes about the hair OK! (This message is especially for my brothers, some of whom have lovingly already tried to make references to humour...)

Cycle 2 begins on Wednesday 17 August: Treatment Day 1Wed, Day 2 Thurs, Day 3 Fri

Love Your Life,
Georgia