Over the past couple months I had been feeling the weight in my head increase and saw a bit more double vision to the right side. Not massive, but enough to throw my balance off more than usual - maybe like a step up from the Tilt a Whirl to the Polar Express at the amusement park rides. So I guess I wasn't shocked but just disappointed when my MRI results I got last week confirmed there has been progression of the disease in the brain. I didn't have the spine scanned this time so not sure what's going on in there but the brain changes were enough to change treatment up. I'm moving from my current 2 drugs every three weeks to one "combination" antibody/chemo given IV every three weeks and they got me in to start it the next day, Thursday afternoon. A new but relatively familiar set of side effects to watch for on this one. Nothing too serious so far from what I can feel - perhaps a bit more fatigue and numbness in my feet and legs. Hopefully the next MRI will show more holding on disease progression. On a positive note my CT of abdomen, pelvis and chest showed no issues so things are calm on that front. Blood work is all good too.
Life has been so full in past weeks. Some awesome visits from out of Calgary family. Time with my family and friends in Calgary including my beautiful brother. Painting, drawing and writing for my upcoming 21 event in June. That event is actually happening, with some amazing support from Crescent Point Energy and Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (and Tasha!). A short article published in Leap Magazine by Alberta Cancer Foundation took a refreshing creative angle on my usually long (Lord of the Rings long) story - take a look . So much positive energy.
The good stuff kept rolling this past weekend when I rode up to Edmonton with mom (Happy Mother's Day!) and dad and was awarded my Fellow at the CPA Alberta Elevate awards. Friends and former colleagues Jill and Yvette had put together the massive nomination forms and support letters and were there to see me wobble the stage to accept my new certificate. It was an overwhelming night - such an amazing event and shower of recognition amongst hundreds of accomplished people. If you're on LinkedIn there's a few shots of the evening - try the link. I'm so grateful. There are just so many incredible people and moments out there to offset the challenges.
So the roller coaster ride continues. A little warmer. A little more unsteady. Just like at the amusement park, I've laughed more in the past weeks, but vomited more as well. Hoping I can keep riding longer. Thanks for your energy providing me an air bag for the sharp corners and upside-down loops.
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| Thrilled to attend with my Dad - 43 years as a CPA, CA |
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| They hung our pics in the entry to the event |
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| Our pics and thank you quotes scrolled through the night |
