Menopause here I come

June 29, 2019

My oncologist Dr. Civilleo referred me down to Boston to see a breast cancer specialist at Dana Farber. She wanted me to learn more about “post treatment” and preventing reoccurence. So a little over a month ago I went down and met with Dr. Erica Mayer and immediately was impressed by her knowledge and expertise. She spent over an hour with me explaining all my options. Due to my age/and increased risk of reoccurrence she felt very strongly that I do everything she suggested. So what did I decide to do…. everything!! I have so much to live for and I would kick myself in the ass if it came back and I didn’t do everything I could. 

So I met with Dr. Civilleo 3 weeks ago and said I was ALL IN! That day I started Lupron. It’s a monthly shot that will literally shut down my ovaries and force my body into menopause. My cancer loves hormones so we are basically trying to inhibit and stop my body from producing estrogen and progesterone. So far so good… I feel my face getting “warm” from time to time but no crazy hot flashes yet. Once my hormone levels get low enough I will add a medication called an aromatase inhibitor. This inhibits hormones that are produce by the kidneys. IF I can tolerate menopause and things go well I will eventually just have my ovaries removed. I’ll make that decision in 6 months or so. We will see!! I will also be getting an IV medication called Zometa every 6 months which will decrease the risk of bone loss due to menopause and it also decreases the risk of reoccurrence. And lastly, I am still taking Tamoxifen daily!! 

Its a lot… and it would be nice to just be done! But in a weird way it feels comforting knowing I am still able to continue treatment and prevent it from coming back 🙂 KPOW continues to POW POW 💥

I saw my therapist again on Monday! Seriously the best thing I could’ve done. I leave her office and just feel so much lighter! She wants me to work on “self care” because when she asked me what I do for myself I started laughing so hard lol!! I take care of the kiddos all day long and then work second shift per diem taking care of my residents. I guess that’s the nurse in me.. I want to take care of everyone else and forget to take care of myself 🤪 SO.. I have been working on it. Went to a comedy show with Jamie, a few dinner dates, shopping ALONE (it’s a beautiful thing), going for runs.. a lot of time with the kids in the jogger but it’s still doing something for me! I also started a new hobby (jigsaw puzzles!) Jamie is really into it as well!! One night I came home from work and he got like half the thing done lol! It can be tough to fit it in but my therapist said it doesn’t have to be this big to-do. Even if it’s just 5 minutes a day. Apparently taking care of yourself is something you should do… who would’ve thought!! Haha 😂

Alright peeps… I’ll let you know how this menopause thing goes and write soon ❤️

Much love 
KPOW