Amanda’s Story

Site created on February 24, 2024

My medical journey started on Christmas Eve while on vacation with my family in South Padre Island, TX.  Shockingly, I broke my femur when a wave knocked me down in the Gulf of Mexico.  I had emergency surgery on Christmas day and remained in the hospital for another three nights while working to get strong enough to fly home.  With the amazing support of my family and friends I spent the next month and a half working hard on my physical therapy so that I could walk again without the assistance of a walker, then crutches and finally a cane.  It was during this time that I learned that my husband is a terrific caretaker, and our family, friends, and community offer amazing support. Next came appointments at the Jane Brattain Breast Center. My official diagnosis of breast cancer was given to me on 2/7/24.  It's interesting how my brain processed this news.  My initial worry wasn't about what was going to happen to me but how this news would affect my boys, my husband, my family, and my friends.  It's one thing to think about having cancer, but actually saying it out loud to the people you love is hard.  I know that this will be a difficult journey for them as well.  Ben and I met with my oncologist at the Frauenshuh Cancer Center on 2/12/24.  We left that appointment feeling very optimistic.  We are starting my treatment by putting me into immediate menopause and starting oral medications to fight the cancer.  Many tests followed my initial diagnosis and not surprising, given the severity of my leg break, we learned that the cancer has spread to my bones.  Even with this news, we are staying with the original plan for now.  I have been on these medications for 10 days now, and we are discovering how my body is reacting to them.  I have good moments and some not so great moments.  The pain in my bones can be very intense at times.  I have been told this should get better.  I am looking forward to that.  I am sure that there are going to be some tough days ahead, but I am doing my best to remain positive.   Thank you for all the love, the prayers, and the support that have been sent our way.  We definitely feel blessed to have so many people care about us. -Amanda

Newest Update

Journal entry by Annie Maikkula

Amanda finished her week of radiation last week. The first couple days she had flu like symptoms and a lot of leg pain.  She is unsure if the cause of the pain was from the radiation, the bone building infusion or starting her third cycle of her chemo medication.  Things did get better for her as the week went on.

On Saturday, Amanda is starting physical therapy.  This should help build back some of her strength, reduce numbness in her hands, and hopefully reduce fatigue.  

The plan is to wait until after her fourth round of chemo medication and then do another PET Scan.  This will let us know how the cancer in the bones is responding to the medications.  This scan is scheduled for the first week in June.

Amanda has been busy getting some hours in at work, attending the boys sporting events and spending some time with friends.  Even with her not feeling well, you often can't tell.  She has such a positive outlook that truly is so admirable. Keep Amanda & her boys in your thoughts and prayers!
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Amanda Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Amanda's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?

Comments Hide comments

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top