I'm pissed off. That about sums it up right now. The genetic counselor called and said Mike needs to have more blood drawn. Apparently the results of the genetic testing indicate that the two of the proteins that are made from mismatched repair genes are missing. "If the test indicates that one of these proteins is missing or levels are low, you may have hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC)."
Basically, it means this was not a "weird freak thing". Mike wasn't just one of X out of 100 that get cancer for no apparent reason. That makes me incredibly angry. Of course, I knew this was a possibility, but when the last 8 weeks have felt so "normal", it's a big slap in the face.
So...now we wait again. This time to test for alterations in the most common genes involved in HNPCC. Once the blood is sent to Mayo we're looking at another two weeks minimum at which time we will again meet with Laura, our genetic counselor. Another two weeks of not having a damn clue as to what is going on. I hate that along with the anger, the fear is back too.
I know we've already come through a lot. In many ways stronger than we were. I also know we'll get through whatever comes next, but that doesn't necessarily make the now any easier.
On June 25, 2010, at age 37, my husband was diagnosed with colon cancer. Following a right-hemicolectomy, genetic testing determined the cause was due to HNPCC/Lynch Syndrome. On December 9, 2011 he had a subtotal colectomy.
Be mad, scream, vent, remember... just the facts, the rest will only cause you to over analyze, and if we get the worst words from the doc, well than we will get you through that to. You are part of my "extended" family, love you guys a lot.
ReplyDeleteMichelle
I love you too. Thank you for always giving me a kick in the butt when I need it.
ReplyDeletewithout perfect words, I send love, patience and peace in the waiting to all of you...know that we will do anything for you, all you need to do is ask.
ReplyDeleteJen