After discussion with the oncology and breast surgeon teams it was decided the best route would be to go forward with a single mastectomy. Haley's breast changes were happening quickly and they were worried the cancer might spread further or go to the other breast. The medication changes did not seem to be making any difference in cancer, so Haley made the decision to go forward with the mastectomy. The surgery was booked rather quickly as it was aggressive cancer every day counts.
In typical Haley style, she could not make this a straightforward case. Three week before surgery Haley rolled her ankle walking down a steep hill and fractured her left ankle. This ankle was previously fractured in 2019 so was already weak, and the medications Haley is on deplete bone minerals making her at risk for fractures. Haley's medical team expanded now to include orthopedic doctors. Luckily they all worked together nicely and made it so there were no delays in having the mastectomy.
The mastectomy was done on 2 Dec. So far the recovery is going as planned. There is are some minor side effects but at this point nothing too concerning and just watch and wait approach. The results from the breast mastectomy were reassuring that Haley made the right decision as the original tumor increased slightly to 22mm and the found cancer in the ducts. Luckily all was removed in time. So now that means the only cancer left is in the lungs and spine. We pray for a full healing and that Haley will go into remission.
Her ankle is nearly fully healed, she's able to walk on it now but still has to wear a boot for one more week. The next step is going to physiotherapy and getting a strength program in place. She'll also need physiotherapy after the mastectomy to prevent any injury to her shoulder. Unfortunately this means more time off work for Haley.
Haley is still doing alternative treatments however a permanent IV line (port a cath) may need to get put in as the medical team are having problems finding good veins for treatment, blood draws, and contrast for CT and MRI scans. This procedure isn't as invasive as the other's she's gone through. The decision will be made in February when her next CT scan is due. If they can't get an IV line for the CT contrast or get good blood draws then that will have to be the next step.
Tony and Haley have been coping with the help of all their friends, church and community; and their friends and family in the States who continue support through prayer and facebook chats. They are thankful for the friends who have stayed overnight and watched their kids so they could have some date nights. Haley and Tony are hoping they can bring their family for a visit to the States this May to see Tony's son, Noah, graduate from high school, and to catch up with friends and family.
Any donations towards Haley and her family are greatly appreciated. They are used to continue to fund Haley's alternative treatment and they would like to try save money so they can make it to America. It's been 4 years since they've seen their family (apart from Haley's mum who came out last year thanks to the help of all of you).
Christmas is just a few days away. May you all have a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.
God Bless
