I love reading experiences like this!
- Pappenstance
- Chico, CA
- Member Since Sep 2012
Their Diagnoses (1)
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- Patient: Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Cervical Cancer
- Patient Info: Finished active treatment less than 5 years ago, Diagnosed: almost 9 years ago, Female, Age: 39, Stage IIB
- View this journey (9 Experiences)
Their Links
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Pappenstance shared an experience
Celebration (Remission): The results of my followup PET scan on Dec. 5 were "the best they could be," according to my gyn onc! No sign anywhere of cancer. I now have quarterly pap smears to follow up and keep an eye on it. Hooray!
about 8 years ago -
Pappenstance shared an experience
Side Effects (Chemo brain): My side effects are still ongoing, but they were hardest to deal with right after treatment was through. My brain said we just needed to move on, but my body just wasn't ready. That may be the hardest part so far in this journey, relearning the balance between what my overachieving brain says I can do and what my body is capable of doing. For months afterward, I had foggy chemo brain, bladder problems, bowel problems and serious fatigue. My diet often changes, based on how my body reacts. Raw fruits and veggies are out. Caffeine is kept to a minimum (I work for a coffee company!), my favorite brand of sparkling rose gives me the most intense stomach pain. My first time back at spin class just about did me in and I spent the rest of the day in bed. On the plus side, I'm relearning how to really, truly relax. :)
about 8 years ago -
Pappenstance shared an experience
Celebration (Finished treatment): After 30 rounds of radiation, 5 rounds of chemo, and 4 rounds of internal radiation, I was finished with treatment on Sept. 18, 2012. Wahoo!
over 8 years ago -
Pappenstance shared an experience
Radiation (Internal radiation (Brachytherapy)): I had four rounds total of brachtherapy: one on a Monday evening and another on a Tuesday morning, then the same routine a week later. I stayed overnight in the hospital both times with a few catheters stitched into the site. As for side effects, I had more trouble being uncomfortable at the site of the epidural and with drowsiness from the anesthesia than I did anything else.
over 8 years ago