2015 February

Here we go again.  Nothing much is different overall. My job still has me working 6 days a week 3 months each winter, with about 7weeks of that at 7days a week.  So, no cycling or playing during the winter :)  Makes it really easy to pick February for my derm visits, since there ain't a tan line anywhere!

During my annual derm visit, my doc asked if I was still blogging and I told her no because I really hadn't had much to blog about.  For me, I've realized this is just an ongoing little battle and that's how I see it.  I've gone through enough Efudex treatments to now self-treat when I see a spot and that's about it.

Over the past year, I've treated a couple small spots.  Of course, each winds up spreading!  Most recently, a spot on my collarbone.  Since it's become such a common occurrence, I just don't think about it any more...just do it and get on with it.

Last week's derm visit wound up adding 3 spots as noted.  The one near my breast I was really surprised about because it just looks like maybe a pink "rubbing" spot from my bras, but it's definitely reacting!

The spot on my left arm I started treating about a week before my derm visit and it's definitely reacting, but not spreading as much as they usually do, which is nice.

The spot behind my knee I would've never caught!  The minute I see it in the mirror, it's a no-brainer and it's easily felt.  But when I shower, I use loofah gloves, so I never felt it!!  Dr is letting me have 6 weeks of Efudex to see if I can prevent a surgery.  Got my fingers crossed!

One difference about these spots, is she wants them treated 4 weeks vs. 3 weeks.  Sigh.  That's not a big deal in "normal" life, but with my worklife returning to normal Monday-Friday days, my bicycle life is ramping back up to full speed, with every weekend day being spent on the bike.  For most, that wouldn't be a big deal either, but our weekends are often spent riding 600km, which means a quick get-ready Saturday morning, usually just a couple hours sleep Saturday night, then back early Sunday.  Goal is to finish up early enough Sunday to get home and get to work Monday morning!  

With such short turnaround times, it's really hard to treat each area twice each day and let the cream have time to soak in before either dressing or curling up in bed.  Just means a little less sleep each weekend, when there's only a few hours total!

My Mom continues to be fearful of the cream and continues with multiple surgeries and is now beginning radiation treatment on 3 facial points.  20 treatments, 4 weeks every Monday through Friday.  NO THANK YOU!!!!  She has way more time on her hands than I do, so I am thrilled with being able (in the same 4 weeks) being able to conveniently treat my areas on my own time.  Yes, they may be ugly, but I'm killing 'em all the same!

Live all the days of your life!