Done.

We got some bad news today. The results from Monday's PET scan came in. The cancer has spread. There are a couple of spots on the same side of my neck and a spot by my windpipe. Depending on the results from today's test, the chemo could change. Unfortunately though, radiation has been added to the mix. About a month of it or so. Yea. My oncologist also told me I would most definitely lose my hair.

Today I had the bone marrow test. I'll save you the details on that, but basically it looks like this (feel free to cringe):


And I was lying about the details. I live them...you have to hear about them. :)

Matt and I met Mom at the oncologist's office this morning. I had blood drawn (AGAIN! Grrrr...) then we went back to the exam room. My husband went back with me for moral support. The entire process was explained to us and I was then able to take one of my anti-anxiety meds. I changed into the gown and hopped up on the table. I was to lay face down (also very fun with the Mediport) and then start the narcotic lollipop. That looks like this:

Had no specific flavor, just sweet. Well, guess what? About half way through, I start breaking out into hives. Had to stop the lollipop. :( Turns out they were just from nerves. Anyhow...the procedure starts with marking the spot. Basically I could feel a lot of pressure on my hip as she tries to figure out where to take the bone marrow. I'm slathered down with more yellow dye and the numbing process begins. After about 10 little pricks of anesthetic, my hip was completely numb. The needle was injected and all I could feel was pressure. The weird thing is you can actually feel the needle in your bone. It doesn't hurt at all...just a weird sensation. Then she did lots of jiggling and kept complimenting me on how hard my bones are. After about 15 minutes, the marrow was extracted and the wound was cleaned. I had to lay there for a minute on my back to put pressure on it to stop the bleeding. Then I got dressed and was free to go.

I start my first session of chemotherapy next Friday. Shortly after is when I'll lose my hair. She actually gave me a prescription for a wig.

Now it's time for bed. It's been an emotionally draining and exhausting day. And now I can add physically painful to the list. The anesthetic has worn off and the hip (and yes, still the Mediport) hurt. At least there's nothing tomorrow!