April 4th, 2021 (Sunday - Easter)

Happy Easter to those who celebrate!

The pain has increased both in my chest and upper right shoulder blade/lower back.So, I am not able to write much. 

I spoke with the nurse a few days ago at the clinic I go to for my medical visits. I told her that I was in a lot of pain. She said she would tell my doctor of my current status and to prescribe pain medicine. There was already a scheduled late afternoon phone visit with my doctor for Friday, April 2nd. So, we could discuss it then.

I absolutely love my doctor and the clinic which I have been going to nearly 20 years! We both look forward to our chats. However, this one was a little awkward for my doctor. She has really enjoyed our visits over the past year and a half. There have been three doctors I have been assigned as one would leave and another would take over. Luckily, I have gotten along well with them all.

The first thing that my doctor said was "I am so sorry". It saddens me to hear those words because she and everyone I talk with about my situation with the esophageal cancer that is what I hear at the beginning of any conversation. I truly am at peace. And I am ready to fight this! The doctor knew back in May/June 2020 that my chest pains were starting be more noticeable and felt than in the past. This time it felt different. They were no longer once in awhile. Rather, they were starting to be more frequent. We monitored it along with having had some chest x-rays. Nothing was detected.

A little over a month ago, I could barely eat anything. My weight started to decline. It went down from 126lbs to 106lbs. Therefore, I went to the ER as the chest pains were really becoming unbearable. All the tests they did came back normal. It was decided that I should get scheduled to see an endoscopy specialist who strongly suggested an endoscopy procedure. It was then that the two biopsies would be performed during the procedure.

I am falling asleep as I write this entry. Therefore, I will say goodnight for now. I hope to write more tomorrow. So much to share with you all.

I have my first appointment with the oncologist at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance on Wednesday, April 7th, 2021. Thank you for your patience with my entries and writing as I am trying to write as much as possible to keep you all updated on my journey. 

The hydrocodone pill is starting to take affect right now.

Good night.

- Lien