MY journey

[MOOKIE-FOX1234]

SinceI was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at the age of 73 , I consider myself extremely lucky . I was in good physical shape at the time and although I was nervous about the chemotherapy, I managed it well . Early on I decided to only share my diagnosis with family members and really close friends . I haven't regretted that decision , I leave my Dr's office and get on with my life with the help of my loving partner and my family.; and I am not constantly bombarded with reminders of my situationand which helps me keep a positive attitude .Two of my family members are doctors which is a help and my closest friend is there for me all of the time .

Given my advanced age I occupy my mind as much as I can with sewing , reading etc . I have traveled on vacation to Scandinavian before Covid hitand since to visit family in other parts of the USA. I was a former dietician and try to eat good nourishing foods. Though , I do throw in some junk food if I feel like it. I try do some daily exercise to keep my legs strong , achy knees have been a problem and I should have my left hip replaced, instead I opted for physical therapy.

I feel fortunate in that I have access to good medical care. My hope is that very soon a better diagnostic process will be found along with treatments that are less taxing so that more womens lives can be saved .

[delia2]

Hi. Thanks for sharing your story. I hope you continue to have such a positive attitude. My joints were also affected by frontline chemo. I went to physical therapy and acupuncture and eventually they improved until I started Olaparib but again they’ve improved over time. Xx

[MOOKIE-FOX1234 in reply to delia2]

Delia2 , Thank you for your reply . I was on Olaparib last year and I developed anemia , could hardly drag myself up the stairs . My Dr took me off it and once my blood counts improved I went on maintenance chemo . My problem is that I seem to be allergic to everything . Before chemo I have to take benadryl and then get an intravenous dose otherwise my throat and ears itch and my hands turn bright red . I have now started back on Olaparib ,a very low dose in the hope that my body will build up a tolerance to it and the dose can be increased .

Fingers crossed !!

I also read about your concern over picking up dog poop .I just lost my Westie during the pandemic and I have a cat with a litter box .

I wear a mask to clean the litter box and wash my hands immediately afterwards. I happen to think that having a pet is a great comfort and really miss my dear Angus . In fact , my doctor , before Covid , permitted dogs to accompany patients to appointments.

I am hoping that the side effects of Olaparib lessen , others seem to do really well on and can take it long term . Good luck !!

[SASSY196]

Thankyou for sharing your story, you are very positive and strong. I told lots of people about my cancer diagnosis and sometimes it is too much as everyone wants updates - so wise decision. Hoping you are sewing, reading and otherwise enjoying life for a very long time, Sara xxx

[MOOKIE-FOX1234 in reply to SASSY196]

Thank you , Sara , for your comments on my post .I think not sharing with too many people was the right decision for me . I try not to dwell on my situation and trust my oncologist answering questions and making decisions since she is the expert. I believe my job is to keep a positive attitude and take good care of myself.

I hope that you are doing well ! We are all on a mission to try and improve the outcome for all other women . XX

Mookie