Breast Cancer - Take Two - Table of Contents
We had planned on Malta (left), but received Bill Snyder Family Stadium instead
Background to this chronological journal of Gloria’s second breast cancer experience.
A record of changes - additions/subtractions and corrections - to this site.
July 31, 2025 - A mammogram misses a 2022 cancer, prompting greater future vigilance. A new discovery in August 2025. Trip plans go forward, but with modifications
September 15, 2025 - Cancer Removal Surgery Attempt. Everything unfolds in a rather routine fashion
September 23, 2025 - Cancer larger than on scan and not fully removed. Further action is dictated; Gloria opts for a second lumpectomy; port added for future chemotherapy
September 28, 2025 - Gloria's news shared with family and friends. Had held off to eliminate effect on long-time project and to guard against pointless concern by others
October 1, 2025 - With 3 surgeries in the 2022 and now 2 on this one, the process is almost routine. We finish the day with a supper from Culver's on Bluemont Hill
October 10, 2025 - Second surgery fails to clear the area. Doering gives Gloria an option; she decides on bilateral mastectomy; eliminates future concerns and not "lopsided."
October 14, 2025 - Surgery goes well; Beautiful Bill Snyder Stadium; Chatting with nurses Mary and Nell; Art is lending a hand; the hospital food was OK
October 16, 2025 - A shower and Gloria gets to see the "new" her; Healing continues to go well as there is very little fluid in the drains
October 17, 2025 - Gloria's rapid healing leads to the drain tubes being removed at the earliest possible time; phantom feelings; the generosity of good friends
October 21, 2025 - Pathology report of the bilateral mastectomy revealed a previously unknown tumor in the left breast. Gloria's choice is more than vindicated
October 27, 2025 - The Fron Choir - their new ad and Kris' travel; Gloria receives Knitted Knockers; does Halloween at the zoo; latest pathology report dribbles in
November 3, 2025 - The oncologist lays out his plan to address any possible spread of the second tumor and how the "surprise" third tumor will ... or won't ... be treated
December 2, 2025 - First cycle "Day 1" Several things conspire to lengthen schedule. Preparations for Cycle 1. Decision to eliminate e-mail updates in favor of posting events.
December 3, 2025 - First cycle "Day 2" featuring seven drugs. Brother Dave joins us. Wrapped up the day with a trip to Culver's
December 4, 2025 - First cycle Day 3. Trip to the center for the blood-cell-boosting shot. Another trip to Culver's. Sleeping seems to be settling down.
December 6, 2025 - First cycle Day 5. Long-term effects are setting in. Celtic Woman and the Olsburg Swedish Dinner
December 8, 2025 - First cycle Day 7. Develops severe gastrointestinal pain; passing blood; trip to the Emergency Room
December 10, 2025 - Things appear to be settling down after a follow-up visit to the family doctor, discussions with oncologist, and the use of painkillers.
December 13, 2025 - Time and hydrcodone seem to help make the season bright
December 20, 2025 - The week of December 14 - 20 exhibited much improved appetite, some socializing and decorating the Christmas tree