On June 29 I was very short of breath so had a friend take me to the ER. I had already lost the use of my voice 2 weeks before. We thought it was just laryngitis but apparently a tumor was pressing on the nerve that goes to the larynx and paralyzing one of the vocal chords so that I could only whisper. I was admitted and after a series of chest x-rays, CT scans, and an MRI it was determined that I have a tumor in my lung that has metastasized to my brain, liver, and a couple of vertebrae. I never smoked. I'm on oxygen 24/7 now. I also had a biopsy of the lung and lymph nodes for testing for chemo and immunotherapy. This is an adenocarcinoma of the lung, a large cell carcinoma. At this point I'm going for radiation treatments daily to my brain and now also to my chest area to reduce the size of the tumor as I am having difficulty swallowing due to pressure from the tumor. My last radiation treatment is on July 19. I'm also receiving bone strengthening injections once a month.
July 25 is the day I receive the results of all the testing. They are testing to see if I'm a match for immunotherapy and also what drugs to use for chemotherapy. On July 25 I will start chemotherapy. Hopefully I'm a match for immunotherapy and will be able to receive immuno-chemotherapy in combination.
The radiation therapy makes me feel very fatigued but that is a known side effect. There is no radiation on weekends so I get a little break. I am so thankful that I have a wonderful and supportive family and group of great friends that are doing so many things for me to help me through this journey. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers.
On October 2nd, I was admitted to Luther Hospital with an infection. Right now, I'm getting my strenghth back and fighting the infection. I'm hoping to transfer to MCHS in Osseo for recovery and then get back home soon.
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Irene Stay Connected to Family and Friends
A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Irene's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?
