Revenge of the barren womb
Ovarian cancer (OC) is often called the silent killer. It is asymptomatic in its early stages. The noticeable symptoms typically only occur when the disease has reached stage 3 or 4, when treatment is less effective and survival rates are much lower. So early diagnosis is essential. Looking back to last fall, I did have symptoms, but it never occurred to me it could be something serious. I felt a little bloated and had slower bowels than usual. Most dramatically, I felt full after eating smaller than normal meals. I attributed this to my great dieting will power, since I was trying to lose weight. I had no pain, no bleeding. The last week of November we hiked 55 miles in the Andalusian Mountains in Spain -- I felt great, so how could I be seriously sick?! Take a look at the flyers I uploaded, know the symptoms, and spread the word.
Now on to risk factors, where yet again it all seems so unjust. Ovarian cancer isn't about smoking or being overweight: the biggest risk factor is not having kids! Seriously, so not helpful. Other risk factors are having the BRCA mutation, more commonly associated with breast cancer. My full genome, and that of "Porlock," is being sequenced, and we will know soon if I have the mutation. My data will go into a huge UK database to help researchers develop better OC screening and treatment. I could write more about the symptoms and risk factors but instead here is the Wikipedia article
Physically I am feeling much stronger. I walked 2.5 miles yesterday. My chest is loosening up, the scar tissue relaxing, I feel less hunched over. And as long as I keep to my pain meds schedule I am pain free. I may try reducing the tramadol again tomorrow. My biggest challenge is keeping my head in a good space. Trying to find joy and peace in every day with the black shadow of this diagnosis hanging over me -- that is my work.
As always, thanks for all the love, MK
Comments (11)
Dear Michelle, Thank you for sharing all of this important information on ovarian cancer. I too am at a higher risk for not having children, and learning a lot about this cancer and the warning signs through you. Hang in there. You will have your good days, and bad days, both mentally and physically. Please try to remember that even when your family and friends are not immediately at your side, we are thinking about you throughout the day. Keep up with you walking, and enjoy your time with your next house-guest exploring the various museums. Spring is here in Oxford! Anne Marie
Hi Daughter So very pleased you are feeling stronger AND I am by your side always Much love Mom
Thanks for the update and info Michelle. I'm thinking of getting the BRCA test as well. So amazed you walked 2.5! Is that miles, kilometers or hours?
The risk factors list is very helpful Michelle, thanks. Keeping your thoughts on the present is one of the best things you can do! You have such a wonderful support team. Visualize their faces regularly. And walking? Yay!
Thank you so much for the information. I am tripped out by the thought of carrying around cancer unknowing for such a long time. What a relief to know that your pain is managed. I can't imagine what you are going through with the looming diagnosis. Yes, it stands to reason that this would be a dark time. I hope it helps you to know that you have an army of friends and family who love and support you and are handing on your every update. We may not be physically standing close by but we are right next to you with our thoughts and love. Give us the PSA on how to support you. What can we do to carry you through this shadow? I wish I could hug you right now. I hope you feel the positive energy and heartfelt prayers that I am sending your way. XOXOXOXOXOX Allison
Hi Michelle, If you think it would help, I would like to arrange a visit from a therapy dog for you. Here is the UK therapy dog association website: http://www.scas.org.uk Let me know. I wish I could be there for you, but maybe a dog would be just as effective:) Love, Allison
Thank you for sharing the information about ovarian cancer. I now understand how important it is to pay attention to these subtle preliminary symptoms. Through this experience with you, I too have become an advocate for women's ovarian health and I will spread the word about the risk factors, far and wide. If we can help any young woman change her trajectory away from ovarian cancer, we will have succeeded! We are in this with you and are sending love, peace, energy, and light to dispel this black shadow. I am focused on a bright future for you with us in sunny Santa Barbara. Love and hugs, Satie
We will be with you all the way every day. Love you Michelle. Jim
I'm grateful for all the info you post---am passing it on to my Karin--and am hopeful for your future. One day at a time. Much love--Suz
Dear Michelle, thank you for sharing the information - I too have not had any children of my own, although have been on contraception for more than 10 years so here's hoping that helps decrease chances. I can only reiterate the loving thoughts of your friends posting here, that although we can't be near, you are in all our thoughts daily. And Bruce too. This is a struggle for you both, but you are doing so well so far. When days and weeks feel like months and years, remember you are always on the improve, and walking 2.5 miles is definitely evidence of that. When your thoughts are dark, try to remember we are all holding a candle for you in our hearts and minds, and are with you in spirit. Well done in overcoming the struggle so far, and all power to you to move forward toward greater wellness. Love from down under, Karen xx (some hugs which Bruce will have to pass on: OOOOOOOO)
Dear Michelle, In yoga we have the opportunity to focus and set an intention, I am doing jus that for you, sending you love, strength, and hope from Santa Barbara. Cherie Mignone (one of the Princessapessa Cake ladies)