First CT Scan

THE first two weeks after my breast cancer diagnosis; I was on an emotional rollercoaster, I would be angry then sad and I felt ranges of emotions in between both spectrums. I was like a chicken running around with its head cut off replaced by images of the words ‘cancer’ and ‘chemo’ flashing as if they were neon signs outside of a bar.

The only thing I could do was take everything in steps. Step one- get my CT scan done, step two- get outsourced biopsy results, Step 3- Chemo (only if I really needed to!).

Step one- CT Scan
A CT scan or computed tomography of the body uses special x-ray equipment to help detect a variety of diseases and conditions. CT scans may be done with or without “contrast.” Contrast refers to a substance taken by mouth or injected into an intravenous (IV) line that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to be seen more clearly. I was having a scan done on my throat, chest and pelvic area with and without the contrast dye used, which meant I had to fast for about 6-8 hours before. On the morning of my CT Scan I drank about two litres of water that was mixed with the contrast dye- it tasted a bit metallic and was quite uncomfortable to do, especially after having not eaten for about six hours. After drinking the water I was ready to start the scan.

I changed into the dressing gown provided and laid down on the CT table, the technician then came over to me and took my hand- I hadn’t realised at that point the contrast dye would also have to be inserted via an IV into my body. Oh boy, this was only the beginning of having IV’s inserted into my hand. The invasive nature of medical exams greatly deter persons from having them done especially when ‘nothing is wrong’ but this slight discomfort may prevent one from future anguish by having issues diagnosed early, regardless of age.

The technician explained that the machine would tell me when to hold my breath and when to exhale. I laid in the machine which, due to its design, is not the best place to be for close to thirty minutes if you’re claustrophobic. Finally, it was over, the technician very gently removed the IV from my hand and was very concerned about how I was feeling. I received the results from my scan the same day – it confirmed that I did have swollen lymph nodes, however the great news was that no other areas in my body had been affected thus far.

As I continued to wait on further confirmation and a more detailed diagnosis from my outsourced biopsy my family and I began to discuss chemotherapy options. I was very upset about this; I was adamant that I did not want to go through chemotherapy after hearing many horror stories about cancer patients suffering more from the chemotherapy than from the disease itself. My family suggested I speak to someone who had gone through chemo and get a firsthand account for myself.
It is funny indeed how people are placed in our lives from early on but their roles do not come into play until it is time. I was fortunate to have met Devika Tinsram, while I was studying at the University of Guyana about eight years ago; we became friendly classmates then and the bond was further reinforced when we both worked for the same company after our graduation.

About two years ago Devika was diagnosed with breast cancer, I was shocked and probably displayed the same emotions people did when they found out about me, I was an observer and supporter in her journey not knowing then I would soon share the same story as her.

Devika is indeed an inspiration to all women suffering with breast cancer or any disease for that matter. She has handled herself and her journey incredibly and has become a spokesperson for the disease in Guyana. I knew that if anyone could help me through this difficult time it was Devika, she had just completed eight cycles of chemo and her beautiful hair was just starting to grow back. My intuition told me to let Devika’s account of her treatment and journey be my guide on how to move forward.

Next week – My interview with breast cancer survivor, Devika Tinsram.

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