1. Mom's cancer cells were at Stage 1 (indicates the size of the tumor/lump - it is small, 1 cm) and Grade 2 (indicates the aggressiveness of those cells - hers are dividing quicker)
2. Dr. Schmidt is excellent. He's been working over 20 years, explains complex information with clarity, and difficult biopsy results with frankness and compassion. He spent extended time with us, and made a special appointment on his day off so Mom could begin school on Tues.
3. Her test results from the biopsy show:
[these are my best explanation from what I heard]
a) The lump (tumor/cancer cells) is ER+ (estrogen receptor +) and PR+ (progesterone recep +)
Meaning that her cells thankfully have receptors that will hopefully respond well to hormone therapy. This 'therapy' removes the "nutrients" (estrogen and progesterone) that her specific cancer cells "feed" off of to multiply. (Some people's cells are ER- and PR-, which means they wouldn't respond to hormone therapy.)
Good news - her body (not everyone) has these receptors and it should work to slow down the naughty dividing cells.
Bad news - it may affect her moods, aging, and other body processes as these woman hormones are removed.
Prayer point -
- For the Lord to produce the fruits of His Spirit in her life & help her respond well in the absence of these hormones. "My grace is sufficient for you, my power is made perfect in your weakness." 2 Cor 12:19.
b) High KI 67
Meaning the character of these cancer cells is somewhat aggressive in their division. Normal KI 67 is 10%, Mom's is 49%. This is a bio-marker showing the genetic expression of the tumor/lump.
Good news - they know the cells are more aggressive, so they can treat it with chemotherapy.
Bad news - Chemotherapy may cause nausea, food to taste metallic (so fruits/veggies are usually enjoyed more), and hair loss (happens w/in first month).
Prayer points -
- For the aggressive cells to stop dividing and die, leaving Mom's system
- For the source of these rebellious cells to be identified and changed back to how they were created to divide and function. The doc said often they come from the milk glands in the breasts.
- For the chemotherapy to target the cancer cells and be less harmful on the rest of her body.
- For Mom's health (strong immune system) as she receives these drugs.
- For little to no side effects.
c) Her2+
Meaning that her specific cancer cells have a receptor that will respond to a newer drug called Herceptin, that targets and destroys the cancer cells. It's suppose to have pretty good results. (The 'drug' link takes you to a page w/ 'metastatic' breast cancer. Mom does NOT have this, but the pictures show what the drug does.)
Good news - her cells have this receptor that can be targeted by the drug.
Bad news - possible side affects could affect her heart / lungs. (They will run tests to make sure she's doing well.)
Prayer points -
- Little/no side effects
- Drug's effectiveness in identifying and disabling of the cancer cells
d) She will probably have a single or double mastectomy (removal of breasts) unless they can get a clear region around the tumor/lump and remove only the section. But right now the doc thinks the cancer cells are in more parts of the breast than just the lump (b/c of the aggressive character of the lump's cells). It's better to have the person than their chest. The MRI (taken later this week) will give a clearer picture.
Prayer points -- For the cancer to stop so the breasts (or lump) doesn't have to be removed.
Interesting note - the doctor described cancer as a "disease of disorganized growth". Because God is a God of order and not disorder, we're praying for Him to bring order to Mom's entire life. He knows how to heal everything, and has the power to accomplish anything, so bring complete wholeness to Mom in Jesus' powerful name. Praise to you, Lord! Thank you that you are the Healer and the Great Physician.
Mom said she looked forward to growing closer to the Lord as she walks this path--that inspires me.
~Ericka Smiley
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