Sunday, August 25, 2019

Damn speedbump...

My sister got some disturbing news.

After more than seven years of chemo, it's taking a toll
on her heart.  The last few eco-cardiograms have shown
a steady decrease in pumping efficiency. Her heart is
weak enough now that she has to stop all cancer meds.

They say the damage is reversible but only by stopping
the chemo until the heart has a chance to gain strength.
Problem is, there's no telling how long that will take.
The other problem is, without the chemo, the cancer
will start to spread. 

She has no other major side-effects, thankfully.
Her energy level is good and she does damn near
anything she wants to do... drive, housework, shopping, etc. 

She's been referred to a cardio oncologist for further
monitoring and to determine when her heart is strong
enough to resume taking the cancer meds that have kept
her alive and kicking but, in themselves, could do her in.
The options include going back on the same meds but in
lower doses or finding something else that keeps the cancer
from spreading and hopefully doing less damage to the
rest of her body. 

She's taking this pretty well right now but I am a 
full-blown basket case (inside). I have to maintain some
semblance of calm for her and the rest of the family.

Is speedbump one word or two? speed bump?
 

6 comments:

Joe said...

Ah crud.

You are both in my prayers

Jean said...

Thank you, Joe.
We're still hoping for the best.

Jess said...

I have now words other than prayers.

God bless.

Jean said...

Thank you, Jess.

Nice to see you again.

Erica said...

Thinking of youse. Most references sites say it's two words.

Jean said...

Erica! You are missed.

Thanks for fixing my laziness.