On the 28th July 2011, my life changed in one phone call with the simple words - 'yes - it's cancer'. I've created this blog, for the benefit of my wonderful close and extended family; and for my amazing friends around the globe, so I can keep you abreast (!) of my journey.

My diagnosis of 2 x grade 3 (fast growing) tumours - type - 'Triple-Negative' - so called
because it doesn’t
have receptors (proteins on the surface
of cells) for the hormones oestrogen and
progesterone, or a protein called HER2, was shocking. This rare aggressive sub-type of breast cancer, therefore, doesn't respond to common
hormonal treatments, such as tamoxifen or
anastrozole (Arimidex®
) or
trastuzumab (Herceptin®
). Survival rates are considerably lower, than for more common types of breast cancer, especially in years 0 - 5, but on a par 5+ years post treatment.

Fast forward to December 2020. Secondary cancer . Triple negative again but the tumour localised to the scar of the primary cancer. The prognosis is weaker. I am buying myself time - with chemo currency.

This will not be a sad tale - but I hope it will amuse you, inspire you, and most of all allow me to lean on you from afar, as you guide me through what looks like a rocky road ahead.

I can't guarantee a happy ending, but hope to make you laugh to the end.

Sunday, 21 August 2011

Top Trumps

Did I mention that Dad popped in the other day?
 He didn't have a pig or a goat with him, but was rubbing his hip - clearly in pain. Sometimes Dad suffers from physcosomatic-istis.
What's up Dad?
Ohhh....I've got a real pain in my hip
Well, should you see the doctor?
I'll see...I'll be OK
Look Dad. I know both my sisters have multiple sclerosis (MS), and now I have cancer - but this isn't a game of Top Trumps you know....you don't get more points for needing a hip replacement!


The next day, Dad pops in again....no sign of any pain...'All gone' he pronounces 'must've been a trapped nerve'
Ah - you lose big man!


PS: Did I tell you I love my Dad? x
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1 comment:

Diane Chavasse said...

Jane, this is fabulous...what a brilliant idea and your upbeat approach had me laughing out loud but must confess to a little tear...

Thinking of you all daily....thinking positive thoughts and sending you all massive hugs and lots of love. Off in search of the sunshine so will sip cocktails on your behalf and look forward to a catch up cuppa once we're back...we have hair-dos to discuss!!!

See you soon hun, Diane xxxxx

21 August 2011 at 18:22

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