No results on Friday, May 7 as expected because I got scared and impatient, was driving myself nuts, and desperately needed a diversion. Dr. P called and left a message at 3:45, less than an hour after I left to escape in a movie, Iron Man II. While I was enjoying the antics of Robert Downey Jr. and the wonders of Lucas magic, she let me know she called and said very little. I felt I already knew what she was going to say...
Kept myself busy throughout the weekend and anxiously awaited the call on Monday. She asked if I had been somewhat suspicious when people did not seem real eager to talk with me. Had to admit, that did reinforce my thinking. The words that I remember from her conversation were "it is cancer","you have invasive ductal carcinoma". I know we spoke about other things but I couldn't tell you anymore about what she said since everything else remains a bit of a blur. She suggested I come in and pick up a book they have for cancer patients because I might find it helpful before our meeting tomorrow and it is required by the state that it be reviewed with every cancer patient.
After I got off the phone, I took a moment to take it all in. Amazingly enough, I didn't cry. I focused on getting to her office, picking up the information, and starting to learn all I could and decide what I was going to do about it. It didn't take much to convince my dog, Foxy, that we needed a ride and we were off.
When I arrived at her office, the receptionist contacted the wonderfully kind and patient nurse who would also end up being part of my care team. We went into a room where we could speak privately and reviewed the book and other materials she had for me together. I had to sign a document that verified I had received the information as required by Michigan state law.
Arriving home, I finished reading the book and perusing the other pamphlets. I tried to make sense of it all but knew it was going to take time. I contacted two of my friends and let them know. That was very difficult for me. I contacted the American Cancer Society for the free materials they suggested to help me organize my "disease" and all the many, many things I was now going to have to keep track of. And I thought the appointments were troublesome enough! Too overwhelming tonight. I am certain it will be an interesting appointment tomorrow, that's for sure!
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