Active Treatment Complete!

We didn't get a picture of me ringing the bell, but I like this one, too. ;)

My active treatment for breast cancer is complete! Such a great sentence to be able to say. When my oncologist first discussed my course of treatment the finish line seemed so far off. Even after chemo and surgery, the 25 rounds of radiation seemed far off. But last week Friday I completed my 25th round and got to ring the Cancer Center bell to signify the end.

Great words to read on my medical papers.

The next step is a five year plan of hormone therapy. My tumor was estrogen and progesterone positive, which means it was feeding off of these two hormones that our bodies produce. To help prevent re-occurrence I will be receiving a medicine to prevent my ovaries from making estrogen and another one to block any other estrogen occurring in my body. Today I went to the Cancer center and received a short infusion of a drug that helps prevent bone lose due to the lack of estrogen. I also received my first shot of the ovary suppression drug and started my oral pill to block further estrogen. (I had one of my favorite chemo nurses for my infusion and she was training in a new nurse. We figured out that the new nurse had been one of my nurses for my surgery. Maybe a sign that I have been hanging around the hospital a bit too much.)

His mercies are new every morning!

There are of course some possible side-effects that can come from these drugs, but the fact that they are available to help in my cancer fight is a blessing that I will try not to take for granted. Throughout this journey the Lord has provided me with such good results, I will pray that they continue for the years to come.

A sweet friend blessed these kiddos with all of these wonderful Usborne books.

I can't imagine going through this journey without the wonderful support that I have received. The constant prayers that were offered on my behalf were truly answered in such positive ways. My body's amazing response to all that was thrown at it this year can only be from a divine source. While many days brought challenges, my days were also filled with blessings.

While our times continue to be uncertain on this side of heaven, rest assured, dear ones, that God is busy preparing a perfect home for each one of us in heaven. These words from Psalm 73 have been and remain a wonderful reminder.