funlady63's Journey with Gallbladder Cancer

Had my gallbladder removed because film showed full of gallstones. Doctor called me in early for my follow up appointment to let me know that they found cancer (microscopic) He "saw" no signs of tumors etc. while he was operating. called an " identical finding)

liver resection and 5 lymph nodes removed (2 had microscopic cancer) no cancer in the liver ...up it to stage III

Chemo was my only option of "doing" something. I was scheduled for 6 months of Gemzar ( 3 weeks on and 1 week off). I completed only 4 months since my veins pooped out. Because Gallbladder cancer is so rare he used the pancreatic cancer protocol and because statistics do not show that chemo has any effect on it, is even helping to kill the cancer or stops the spread I had to be satisfied with the 4 months. After I came out of the chemo and the major fatigue I realized what a major push it was to work my 28 hours a week job. Thank god chemo is like childbirth and the early months after you bring them home. After the fact ... you just realize you just do it the best you can and it all works out. In the bigger picture.... you made it through. Also, because the only thing doctors were saying is that "gallbladder cancer is rare and there is nothing we can do". When it comes back we can just keep you comfortable. (I finally had to insisted that they stop saying this.) I had "gotten" the diagnosis and it was the only thing my oncologist was saying to me every time I saw him.. Mentally, when he said that, it was again throwing me mentally back into the depths of depression and hopelessness. I made it very clear that he and the nurse cannot say that to me anymore. We have moved on.

The first time I saw a radiation oncologist it was taken off the table immediately. This was because of the location and the amount of radiation. I was happy with that because at this point of the journey I was thinking I would not partake of any treatment.

I have come out of the Chemo fatigue and fog, got a cancer free CAT Scan and then blood work, nixed another opportunity for radiation for the opportunity to enjoy a Maine Summer. Have been visiting friends and family, kayaking every week end and planning a trip to Mexico in October. July 11th was a year from my DX and coming up to 1 year from surgery..

Now that I am through the side effects of Chemo, nixed another opportunity for radiation and opting for a enjoying a GREAT Maine summer. I am feeling great. Have made it through my first post surgery CAT Scan and followup blood work and still in good order. Taking it one step at a time and XXX great today.Mexico in October here I come.