Starting chemo Dec 2007

Laurita60091

Hello ladies,

It is good to see everyone is ticking along with their tx.  Just think, you are counting down and with every treatment that is just one less after which you will have to tolerate the se's.

As far as soy, some studies have indicated that soy mimics hormones in the system.  I am not entirely sure how this would react with a tumor that is PR+ and not ER+, as I think it primarily is thought to mimic estrogen.  There is so much information out there and it can be mentally exhausting trying to figure out what you can/can't take. After the two nutrition classes I attended at our cancer clinic, based on their recommendations, I stopped taking all supplements other than calcium, vit D, multivitamin and probiotic acidophilus.

Amy, as far as chai tea, you could try making your own, I have done that in the past, with 2% milk, water and the spices.  It is really yummy.  Check this out:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chai

As far as the wig or hat holding on in the wind, I think hats, if they are not knit/stretchy, could be risky under certain conditions.  I find a scarf tied kerchief style works quite well and is quite secure as I can tie it just below the skull, and tuck the tips under the tie.  I am going to try and post some pics whenever I can find time.  If I were going to the gym, that is what I would wear as they are fairly light and the head doesn't get too hot.  The wigs I have are adjustable, they have these elasticized bands that go from the sides down around under the skull and you can adjust the tightness.  I was definitely concerned as I like to dance salsa, and there have been times when my long hair got tangled up in someone's something....jewellery, clothing.  One time I got so tangled up in the shirt wrist button of some other woman's partner we all had to stop dancing to untangle.  Anyway, last night I went out dancing with my long wig and it was just fine.  It felt quite secure and I didn't feel like there was any risk of it coming off.

KMK, the thought of a wig catching flame or melting was something I had never thought of!  I don't generally wear my wigs when I'm cooking, but it is good to be aware of it.  There's another positive thing about a wig...  Let's say I am cooking and planning to go out later that night.  I hate getting the smell of food in my hair and then going out, so that always meant making sure that the cooking was done in time that I could wash my hair afterwards.  Well, now with the wig this concern no longer exists.  It sits there, clean and perfumed and ready, and I cook in my kerchief or cap and just put the wig on before going out.  I love this.

Sal, it is good to see you back, I was wondering how you were doing.  As far as the protein, have you tried/do you like/eating nuts?  they are an excellent source of protein and while they can be high fat, they are good fats.  I have been eating lots of nuts lately, after the second tx and I have felt better, energy-wise.

Makeup - well, this is something that frankly I would NEVER want to live without.  I am a born and raised feminist but make no apologies for enjoying looking good.  Even without cancer, I have very pale eyebrows and eyelashes that are virtually invisible.  My skin gets pale and sallow, especially in winter.  With brown eyes (no blue, to add to the natural palette) it all looks really washed out.  The makeup is my saviour.  I use a fine pressed powder foundation that is a bit darker than my natural colour, so it makes me look like I've had some sun, but not like I have a pasty layer of foundation over my skin.  I like my eyebrows coloured with a brush and powder, as opposed to eyebrow pencil.  Gives a look I find to be more natural/softer.  If you really are unfamiliar with makeup, try going to a cosmetic department of a dept store or pharmacy where they have someone who really knows makeup.  Go when it's not busy.  They can sit you down and take time to help you try different things and actually see the results.  I think Merle Norman stores can be good for that as well.  My husband, a while back after watching me "paint" myself, asked me "where did you learn to do this stuff"?  lol.  For me I guess it started back playing around as a kid and now it's become a routine.  But it does wonders for your self esteem when you feel that you don't LOOK sick!  KMK - here is the link for the Look Good Feel Better website, you can search and see if they have something available close to you.

http://www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org/women/program_finder/

Amy, I was going to offer words of encouragement, but in the epic time of my writing this you have posted that you have joined us in balditude!  I am glad it went well, and bless your son for his sensitivity.  Welcome, sister.  It IS cold!!!! I cannot possibly think about going anywhere in this climate without hat/scarf/wig (except in the house when having a hot flash, lol).

Last...a computer tip.  To avoid losing what you have written, type it in Word or Outlook first, then just copy/paste into this forum. 

Well, I've blathered on long enough.  I hope everyone keeps well and strong and keeps kicking cancer's a$$.  Hugs to you all.

Laura

wishiwere

Whew!  I missed a lot in one day!

Lori?  I'm in Mt. P (near the big casino in Central MI).  This freezing rain and now rain is surely to make a mess on the beautiful landscape!   50's this coming week sounds wonderful though!  YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Someone (amy?) mentioned 'cardamon' in their tea.  Sorry it was several post back.  I've read in a couple reports online to avoid this when in chemo as it's considered to have anti-chemo properties.  It stuck in my mind b/c my ds is into herbs and she likes to suggests herbs for everything.  Might want to check that out?

A?  Welcome to the baldy club! I bet you were as surprised as I was at how 'unawful' we looked!  I was in tears before the clipping but it is finally starting to not hurt to lay my head down and that's a huge plus!  Now if I could just keep my head from feeling like there's a wind blowing through the house!  I keep taking off the scarf/hat (hot flash) to then freeze and back and forth!  UGH!  I guess it could be worse if it were summer and not wanting to wear a hat at all, but having to worry about sun exposure!  We will get through this!  With all these beautiful women posting their supportive ideas, we will get past this and come out laughing at ourselves one day I'm sure!  Stay warm!

loriann

Hi all!  Still feeling good here on day to..even better that last time!  I've vacummed, 2 loads thru the dishwasher, 4 loads of laundry, cooked dinner and still got a 40 minute nap...I didn't usually do that much in a day pre BC!! LOL  Maybe the steroids are finally showing their potential good side!

WishIWere..Ohh how fun!  I've never been and its a good thing I don't live close, though I'm about an hour north of Detroit casinos and I've only been there maybe 3 times.  I prefer to save it all for Vegas.  I went for the first time in 2004 with just the girls and it was so fun!  We went again in 2005 and 2006, skipped 2007 and currently have reservations at the Flamingo and airfare already purchased for June 23-27th!  That was also booked pre BC along with my trip to Disney World but having them both looming out in the future has been a great light at the end of the tunnel!

I'm the one talking about the chai with milk (thanks for the link Laura) and mine does list cardamom as an ingredient so I will have to inquire about that!  Worse comes to worse, I'll try the link Laura sent and leave out Cardamom if it calls for it.  I will run it by the Dr. too!  Thanks for the head up!!

Amy, Good for you!  Just think of it as another hurdle jumped and cleared on your way to your cure!  What a little sweetie your son is!!

Don't worry about the Dad issues, they are under control!!  Things are what they are and I have fabulous coping skills, thank goodness!!

Talk soon, Lori

bibliowarrior

Man, it's been a busy day on this forum! It's wonderful to hear from so many of us, isn't it?

Amy-- congratulations honey!! One hurdle behind you, and one that at least doesn't physically make us ill. And your son's comments were priceless. Just what you needed to hear. What a sweetie.

Those on the up-swing of their tx... woot woot! Keep the good news comin'!!!  I love hearin it! I worked a full day today and am kinda beat, but feel that I might have a good night's sleep in store for my efforts.

Wigs. My wig place did emphasize that I should not go near open stoves, woodstoves, heaters etc because the wigs will melt. But I have a synthetic one... not sure if it matters on real hair wigs. This hasn't been a problem for me since I usually take the wig off as soon as I get home and opt for a hat (usually my blue one) because it is lighter... I still find myself adjusting my wig at least once an hour whether it needs it or not... probably a dead give-away that I'm wearing a wig??? Duh. And I go through the "hat on/hat off" scenario too... oooh, I'm too hot... oooh, now I'm too cold. Especially at night. I have actually wasted time wondering how bald men can stand the coldness, especially if they chose to go bald. But then again, they are men and not too bright to begin with.

Just kidding.

Mostly.

I'm jotting down all this food info, especially the soy thing because wouldn't you know I'm eating that a couple times a week. I'll have to ask my nutritionist... man, can we get a break anywhere?

Yes, I forgot to mention my intense chuckles at the Emend side effects... that was too funny, Laura. 

The Annie Hall hat... it was a present, so I'm not sure where they found it. I'm thinking it was JC Penney's or Macy's or something like that, based on the tag inside. 

Thanks for all your positive comments, ladies... I do sincerely feel as if I'm part of a caring family here.

Time for din-din. Later, ladies.

Your sincerely grateful BC sister,

Sal 

suz45

Cant believe I just wiped out a half hour post  sigh OK, will shorten this up lol,

Thank you, each and everyone of you for the well wishes and B day messages. It means the world to me and really put an utterly fabulous day right over the top. I couldn't have had a better day if I tried. From B in B, to DH going for a three hour drive for my absolutely favorite cake from my favorite bakery to a romantic dinner out of steak and prawns with no se's  and a beautiful pair of two tone gold bangle earrings.  Who could ask for more (well maybe it might be nice to be able to work some magic like Laura does on the computer, way cool card)

I hope everyone who had tx this week is resting comfortably (Amy I take 10mg metoclopramide pills for minor nausea no V) and will join next weeks group on thurs for my tx #3. I was in the middle of trying to type out all of our dates and where we all were in our treatments when I went back a page and lost my whole post  Guess it really wasn't important.

I wish everyone a wonderful evening ....Joy, Cindy, KMK, Sally, Amy, Lori, Wishiwere, Laura, Kate and I know I have forgotten more as some of us are a lot more quiet (lol, I've been told I talk to much, go figure). But I am NOT going back to check right now.

Much love and big hugs,

Suz

p.s. Amy last movie was The Boujne Ultimatum. I enjoyed it and am watching Rescue Dawn tonight.

suz45

Amy, whoo hoo welcome to the balditudiful club. Just saw a whole new page of posts I missed. Laura, check.... prewrite posts on my notepad

Love Sue

loriann

Morning all!  Day 3 after tx and all is well!  I'm surprised how good I felt yesterday.  Maybe it was the proactive things, the Zantac, colase, steroids going easy on me..who knows, but I'll take it!  Sleep a little interupted from about 4:30 am till about 5:40, but then went back until 8:30...that's sleeping in for me!!

Suz, Sounds like you had a wonderful birthday!  Good for you!!  I know you mentioned a few pages back about getting a list together and I thought it was a fantastic idea (something like we do over on my Disney board to show who is going at the same time as you and where they are staying) so I was sorry to hear you tried and lost it.

If you think it would be easier, we could just start from here (without having to backtrack) and have everyone repost just the vitals (kind of what is shown in some signature lines here but include treatment info and dates) and then just edit that post each time someone adds their info.  Of course whoever starts the post has to be the one to edit it.  I would be happy to do it but it was your idea so I don't want to step on your toes.  Feel free to start, then we can follow or let me know and I will start it!  I would like to see it written out too, with dates so we know who falls where and I know I miss some of you when I try to go back and reread the previous pages.  Anywhoo...just my 2 cents! LOL

OK, Sal, Loved your post (the man comments, in particular) and sometimes what you write sounds just like me.  I have to know....are you a Virgo by any chance?  Too funny!

Time for breakfast, Emend and steroids!  Then off to Walmart!!  Have a good day ladies.

suz45

Lori, No toe stepping here, I would love for you to take it on if its not to much for you. I have my good days when I think I can do anything, then days like today when the neupogen shot brings me to my knee's. I just did a short walk with Sophie (my Cuban havanese dog) about 1.6K so maybe a mile or so and am ready for a nap & extra strong painkillers. I can barely stand as my hips are in agony. I think this may be the last shot this cycle or just maybe one more on Monday (blood work day)

My tx's are dose dense a/c x 4, Dec 12, Dec 27, Jan 10, Jan 21 then on to Taxol x 4 every 2 weeks, also self inject Neupogen every 2nd day for 5-6 inj per each two week cycle. Then I go on to radiation, no info on time line yet. I am now 46 years old and feeling it today

Hugs Suz

loriann

OK Suz, I'll give it a try here.  Everyone just follow the format (or close to it please) and I'll keep it updated best I can..I'm usually here everyday! LOL Just be sure to jot down the page number this is on so we know where to find it.

SUZ - Age 46, Dose Dense AC-12/12, 12/27,1/10,1/24, then Taxol x 4 every 2 weeks. Self injecting Neupogen every 2nd day, 5 or 6 times each cycle.  (Suz , Let me know when you know your Taxol dates and I'll edit. I see your dates aren't 2 weeks exactly each time.

LORI - Age 42, Dose Dense AC-12/7, 12/21, 1/4, 1/18, then on to Taxol-2/1, 2/15, 2/29, 3/14. Treatments are on Fridays, I go back in on Mondays for Neulasta injections with each AC. Then on to surgery (lumpectomy & lymph node removal) and then radiation.

AMY - age 39. weekly taxol/herceptin x12. tx every Friday 12/14-2/29. To be followed by herceptin alone every three weeks for 9 months. (Unilateral mastectomy with DIEP recon. was 10/29/07.)

CINDY- Age 43 Lumpectomy 10/10, re-excision 10/26. TC x4. 11/20, 12/3,1/2,1/23 ,then on to radiation.

SALLY- age 38, bi-weekly AC 12/12, 12/26, 1/9, 1/23. Then bi-weekly Taxol 2/6, 2/20, 3/5, 3/19. Neulasta shot bi-weekly on day following tx. Following ACT tx, daily pill of Tamoxifen for 5 years. Surgeries were on 11/13: bi-lateral mastectomy with sentinel lymph node dissection and immediate reconstruction.

KMK - Age 44 - I was diagnosed with IDC 10/9. Lumpectomy 11/7/07, nodes negative for cancer. ER/PR +, Her 2 neu-, 1.3 cm tumor, grade 3. Had Brachytherapy (internal radiation) for five days beginning 11/14, and began Taxotere/Cytoxan for 4 times every three weeks, dates 12/19, 1/9, 1/30 and 2/20. I did have neulasta shot at time of chemo. Oncotype DX score was 31 which gave me a recurrence rate of 21 % which unfortunately puts me at high risk (low high at least). Will begin Tamoxifen for 5 years after chemo.

LAURA - Age 49.  Lumpectomy and SNB on Oct 4, Chemo FEC (Fluorouracil, Epirubicin, Cyclophosphamide) x 6 every 3 wks: Dec 3, 24, Jan 14, Feb 4, 25, Mar 17.  then Radiation.

Just post your info and I'll edit here ladies.  Hope this will help us keep track better by having it all in one post!  Worth a try anyway!

loriann

Hi.  I didn't want to jumble the list posting with other info but I wanted to let Suz know I wish the Neupogen shots would take it easy on her.  I was leary of the Neulasta shot as I heard it was stronger than the Neupogen (hence, a one shot deal) but I have not had any problems with it whatsoever.  Unfortunatly, I think (at least in my case) it's kind of dictated by what your insurance will cover!  I guess I got lucky.  Stupid insurance....I mean I'm so glad to have it but wish coverage could be the same (as in the best and easiest for each patient) for everyone!  As someone stated before, it needs work but not sure how to fix it!  Hope you feel better quick!  Lori

suz45

Sorry Lori it was Jan 24 on the last one not 21

suz

beasgirl

Good idea, Suz and Lori. I have a terrible time keeping track. (luckily, page 10 will be easy to remember!) Here's me:

AMY - age 39. weekly taxol/herceptin x12. tx every Friday 12/14-2/29. To be followed by herceptin alone every three weeks for 9 months. (Unilateral mastectomy with DIEP recon. was 10/29/07.)

Thanks, Lori! I've been curious about who has had what for surgeries, and who is still waiting on that...

cheers -- A

clsd

Hi girls! Just started coming out of my chemo-hell last night, day 5. The headaches are really beating me up, but today I can tell will be a better day, and I am so thankful I have only one more to go. ( God help the dr. who suggests I need more tx !) I was so glad to log on this morning ( no compter,tvs,lights,etc for many days),and see all your friendly faces on the avatars, and then I remembered that we have this unbeatable team of strong willed, bright, and beautiful women that are going to beat every last cancer cell out of our bodies !

So take that, bc, get lost !I am sick of you f#@%ing with me, and my family. Hit the road ! You're through !

Lori, thanks for organizing us.

Cindy- Age 43 Lumpectomy 10/10, re-excision 10/26. TC x4. 11/20, 12/3,1/2,1/23 ,then on to radiation.

Have a good day my friends. Sending prayers and hugs. xo cindy

bibliowarrior

Cindy, my stomach cringes for you every time I hear you've had one of your horrible headaches again, but I was so relieved to hear that at least you are nearing the end of the treatments.

Lori, I'm a Capricorn (next Monday, actually) but have to say when I saw you mention the word Disney it caught my eye... I'm a big Dinsey fan (animation, specifically... wanted to be an animator when I was a kid)... and organizing the list of all of our info-- compiling lists is some sort of wiring in my DNA (e.g. my food journal, I'm a cataloger, etc.)... so it sounds as if we do have similar brain patterns. Here's a quiz for ya: do you also re-read your post about 5 times before you hit the "submit" button just to make sure it sounds right?

Ok, here's my info

SALLY- age 38, bi-weekly AC 12/12, 12/26, 1/9, 1/23. Then bi-weekly Taxol 2/6, 2/20, 3/5, 3/19. Neulasta shot bi-weekly on day following tx. Following ACT tx, daily pill of Tamoxifen for 5 years. Surgeries were on 11/13: bi-lateral mastectomy with sentinel lymph node dissection and immediate reconstruction.

Amy-- thinking of you and your love of exercise, he he he... I've decided to try a yoga class at a nearby cancer center. All their classes are free to cancer patients, and I'm still working on getting my full mobility back in both of my arms after the surgery. Can't quite smack my cat when he is bugging me from behind my back. (Just kidding)

Hi ho, hi ho, it's off to work I go.

-Sal 

loriann

Morning all!  I've updated my post with the new info!  Gotta love the copy & paste!!  I'm a bit tired this morning as the steroids kicked in last night and I was wide awake from 2-5:30 am with the alarm going off at 6:00 am!  Joy!  Went in for my Neulasta shot at 8:00 and now at work!  Not sure how long I will last today as I KNOW I'm gonna need a nap!

Cindy, sorry to hear about your headache continuing!  I did get my period related migraine last Monday but I took my Zomig right away and that took care of it and it did not return.  Then, yesterday I was telling my mother that it looked like I was not going to get a period this month (YAHOO!) and then this morning...Yes, you guessed it!  Spotting...I'm still hoping that it's not a full blown deal.  I am ready to be done with all that!  As I saw you mention over on the November board, I, too, would be happy never to have to buy another box of tampons either!!  Please God, give me a break!!

Sal, OK, so not a Virgo but you're right, similar mind processes!  I'm very much the organizer that Virgo's are known for, especially when it comes to vacations!  I have 2 binders going now, one for Vegas and one for Disney!  I can admit I'm a bit obsessed!!  LOL  For me, especially since diagnosis, the planned vacations have been a getaway when my brain needed it.  I think I turned a corner last week when I left my breast cancer bag (books, binder, etc.) at home and brought the Disney stuff back in.  I love all things Disney..books, movies, history, etc., but I think what interest me the most is learning about all the overlooked details that go into the attractions at the parks..and not just the attractions, but the resorts, restaurants, landscaping, just tons of stuff that one would never notice unless they had read about it!  Just so interesting to me!  And yes, most times I reread my post just because I do so much backspacing these days who knows what I may have written! LOL  Then, some days I say screw it, as I know you all will forgive me few errors!

Need to get a little work done so I can get out of here!  My bed is calling!!  Have a good day!  Lori 

beasgirl

Hey, Lori, I was just thinking--I 'll post the stats in the top message when they're compiled, then they'll be easier to find.

Been feeling really crappy yesterday and today--it's so hard to figure out what's "normal" crappy feeling and what's worrisome. No fever, but my cough and cold-y feeling is coming back (antibiotic wearing off?)...I just feel like a wimp, since this treatment is supposed to be "easy". I'll try drinking lots of water... I just keep thinking about, like, Laura going SALSA dancing, and so many of you working, and I'm wondering what the heck is wrong with ME!? I suck at chemo. 

Cindy--your poor little baldy-head. I'm so sorry it got you again...! But only one more to go...? That's nice to think about!

more soon--

A 

suz45

Cindy, so sorry to here your migraine was around so long,  Ive dealt with them all my life and there is nothing worse than not being able to at least control one. Hope today is a much better and brighter one for you. Cant believe you just have one more to go. WAY TO GO.

Sally sounds like your on the upswing, and back to yourself again. The yoga class sounds good, let us know how it goes. I'll have to ask if our CA offers them, I know there is a fair bit on relaxation. With the holiday season just finishing I need to find an exercise partake in. Chocolate was my friend and its starting to show.

Lori your an absolute doll, thank you for all your doing. I wish you well with no Neulasta se's.

Gotta run as its blood-work this morning.

Love & Hugs

Suz

joyh

hi all       I had my tx mon,31st and because of the holiday Tues. didn't receive my nulasta shot until Wed.  I'm convinced now (after skipping a day and feeling well) that the shot plays a much larger role in exhaustion than believed.  We had an hour drive and within 30 minutes I was asleep, not to be fully awake until Sunday.  I slept and slept (not me at all, I hate to sleep, might miss something.)  No new se, just same as last time' but had already forgotten how bad you feel.  Two down, four to go!  I'm on the upswing now and so ready.  I have deliberately been keeping my post short  because for some stupid reason, I cannot figure out how to make a new paragraph.  I can do it on word processor or other sites but not this one.  Any suggestions, I have come up some interesting formats.       (new paragraph)  Suz, Happy Birthday and sounds like you had a wonderful celebration.  This will be one to remember!      New Paragraph Amy, think dreading it is the worst part.  Glad you have it over.  The coldness surprised me too,  In the house I wear one of dh's tobogons.sp)       Sal, good to see you back.  I have had the same fatigue problem.  All of my life people have been yelling at me, "Joy, won't you please sit down".  No problem now.  I read dh your post about protein last night and he began researching.  Actually he is on the way to buy veal now.  I'm going to try it        Good luck to you and Kate Wed.  I'll be thinking of you both.          (new paragraph) Wishiwere, so sorry about the nausea as that was the one thing I dreaded the most, and so far have completely escaped it Almost afraid to mention it as someone might hear                     take care we're going to do this     Joy

loriann

Amy, that sounds good.  That thought had crossed my mind so we apparently had a mind meld going.  I'll keep adding as their posted and you can copy & paste whenever you want.  Thanks for offering!

Suz, No problem..especially since I figured if we sorta kept the same format, I would be able to just copy & paste.  Not a lot of trouble there!  Of course I'm sure Laura would have some sort of fabulous chart with pictures (avatars), clip art, etc!  LOL  I'm doing the best I can and that's good enough!  LOL

Lori

KMK

Thank you for doing this you organized computer people.

I was diagnosed with IDC 10/9. Lumpectomy 11/7/07, nodes negative for cancer. ER/PR +, Her 2 neu-, 1.3 cm tumor, grade 3. Had Brachytherapy (internal radiation) for five days beginning 11/14, and began Taxotere/Cytoxan for 4 times every three weeks, dates 12/19, 1/9, 1/30 and 2/20. I did have neulasta shot at time of chemo. Oncotype DX score was 31 which gave me a recurrence rate of 21 % which unfortunately puts me at high risk (low high at least). Will begin Tamoxifen for 5 years after chemo. I am 44 years old.

I really want to stay on schedule so I can go to Italy 3/20 with my mom and daughter. Last couple of days I have been extremely light-headed when I get up from bending down.  Has anyone felt any lightheadedness? I  hope my blood counts are okay for Wed.day. Cindy do you think the headaches are from the steroids? I remember having them  the day of and a couple of days after tx but I can't say I've had one since. I really hate the effects of those steroids.

I really hate the whole thing and writing it all out brings back memories of what a crappy time it was!

Sigh- can't wait to get #2 over with.

Take care,

KMK

clsd

KMK, mds and nurses can't say for sure what is causing headaches. They have tried to slow chemo infusions, taper even slower the steroids, etc.....What I do know is today is day 6, I have turned the corner, and I know each day I get better and stronger, with only one more tx to go. I have been SO lucky most of my life, suffering only headaches when I had too many glasses of red wine, etc; but to think of some of you ladies having to endure migraines and headaches that bring you to your knees, bed, tears, OMG!! I said to my dh during tx#2, I know why sick people want to give up on treatment, and LIFE; those headaches were unbearable! However, as I just reported to one of my BFFs a few minutes ago, I am at 31%, and on a roll back up to 100%! ( I have some BFFs in town, that when they hear I am at 80% or above, they are on their way over to swoop me out for a GNO dinner!) If we Dec girls were closer geographically, I'd LOVE to continue the tradition and go out to dinner when we are all DONE with this whole mess !!What a force we will be !!!

I wanted to share a book that I am reading, that I find hysterical. "Cancer Vixen" by Marisa Marchetto. The humor is outstanding, and reminds me of some things that you witty ladies come up with on your posts. It is a true memoir of a bc survivor and her journey. She is a cartoonist, so the book is writtten in cartoons. I finally could pick it back up today.

Thanks for all the headache well wishes. This afternoon only have a dull headache, and the chemo fog is still here , but I plan to get rid of those ses tomorrow.

xoxoxoxo  cld

Laurita60091

You ladies rock.  I really mean that.  This forum really reinforces to me the beauty and power of women.  We really know how to pull together and form a team and support each other.  It is SO good to be a part of it.

Anyway, it is lovely that Loriann is taking the lead on the tx documentation and Amy will head the thread with it- I love it!  Sal, it is cool to hear of your interests in animation and generally great to hear about everyone's hobbies and interests.  I confess to being a listmaker as well.  I actually thought of putting my chemo log into a spreadsheet, encompassing diet, SE's, etc.  but that was really just TOO much like my work, so I just noted it journal style in my Outlook, and it is useful to check back.  Did not maintain a food journal this go-round because it was pretty much a copy of last cycle, just add chocolate, lol.  Loriann, I can definitely agree that your binders and vacation planning are SO important in getting through these tough times.  We need things to look forward to (right, KMK?)!  Sal, I am guilty of re-reading the post and editing, for sure.  Have you been watching me?  How did you know that I do this?

My data:

Laura - Age 49.  Lumpectomy and SNB on Oct 4, Chemo FEC (Fluorouracil, Epirubicin, Cyclophosphamide) x 6 every 3 wks: Dec 3, 24, Jan 14, Feb 4, 25, Mar 17.  then Radiation.

Suz, I really feel for you ladies who are having bone pain and headaches on top of nausea and everything else that sucks about bc/chemo.  Amy, you don't suck at chemo, your chemo sucks!  They are poisoning you WEEKLY!!!  I truly don't know how I could possibly deal with that.  Cindy - enduring these headaches and with all your kids....Big hugs to you!  I do wish we could all have dinner together - wouldn't that be wonderful.

And OMG!  I am just seeing Suz's new avatar - you look fabulous!!! 

OK....back to work for me.  Hugs to all....

Laura

bapnkat

Hi everyone!!  I still have all my hair although my scalp seems to feel different.  Had physical therapy today and go again tomorrow.  TORTURE!  I thought I had really good range of movement in my arms until she got at me. 

I go for chemo #2 on Wednesday.  I noticed most of you have all your stats.  I never thought to ask my doc about that.  He told me I was stage three, but never said anything about grades and such.  He never even mentioned dieting.  Is that something I should be doing?  Did you see a nutritionist? 

I haven't had any headaches yet..is that something else we get to look forward to?  ICK ICK ICK....  Well, got to run.

Kate

bibliowarrior

Evenin' ladies,

Amy-- you are way too hard on yourself. I had two choices for chemo, and I went with the "easy" version too... on my icky days, I seriously wonder what sort of a freaky mega human I'd need to be to handle the "not-so-easy" version. You're a trooper-- we've all seen it-- the chemo is the sucky guy.

Cindy-- being a librarian, I naturally jotted down that book title. Gotta see about finding that. Especially since I hate to read (gasp) and this one has pictures.

KMK-- I've been having the light-headedness too. Eventhough the fatigue has pretty much gone away, I still get dizzy if I stand up too fast or turn around too quickly. I too am hoping that doesn't mean my wbc count is still low on Wed for my next tx. 

Today I went in for my 2-month check-up with my general surgeon, just to make sure everything is healing properly. Long-story short, there is a cyst on my right side that they want to look at, so I'm getting a needle biopsy of the cyst done on Thursday. Now, I had two of those back in October when all the fun started, and I remember asking about drugs to help with the pain and drugs to help with my nerves... I also remember "all" the pain I was in afterwards and how I lounged/sulked on the couch for the whole day when I got home from the first one... etc etc. This time I was like "Yeah, let's just do it and get it over with" with no thought about drugs or anything. And more than being nervous about what the cyst might be, I'm ticked off because this is totally screwing up my Thursday because I planned to go to the library and work on a particular project, but now I have to re-arrange my plans. Man, how our priorities shift as we get more used to this crap we go through. Cancer is such a freakin inconvenience!!

Speaking of inconveniences, gotta go gargle, brush my teeth, put on more chap stick, check on my latest SE (nose bleeds), drink another 8 oz., and get ready for bed.

Big hug,   Sal 

beasgirl

Oooh. Cindy and Sal (and anybody else interested)--I haven't read Cancer Vixen, but I LOOOVED Cancer Made Me a Shallower Person by Miriam Engleberg. Her take on it all was so like mine it was uncanny. She is cynical, and a little dark at times, but that's how we roll around here--I loved it.

 http://www.amazon.com/Cancer-Made-Me-Shallower-Person/dp/0060789735

(I don't know why I keep trying to post links...Laura, do you know how to make them live?) 

KMK

Hey Beasgirl, don't despair your book link came up on my e-mail of your post. Those books sound great - I love to read books that reflect where I am, usually on vacation when I have time to read and I guess cancer is a trip of sorts so I will try to find them. Sal -isn't it ironic that the things that use to make us nervous now seem so easy compared to the new and unknown we face daily. I am glad they are checking your cyst out; if I remember right, just calling it a cyst signifies it is not a solid mass (tumor) which is good.I called my chemo nurse regarding light-headedness and she said could be dehydration.  I said I have been drinking tons of water but the nurse said my electrolytes could be off and try gatorade so I did though not my favorite. I am so nervous that I'll show up Wed.day for my labs and they will send me away and delay my course.

Kate, if you want to know more I would ask your surgeon for your copy of your final pathology report. You can look on-line at this website and find out what each marker means,  ER+/ PR+, etc. But I have a bc friend who didn't want to spend any or her time researching (but her husband did). My recommendation is not to do it at bedtime.

I want to ditto how I encouraged by the strength and humor of you all. My daughter just began digital photography so hopefully soon I'll have a picture.

good night,

KMK

texrn

Hi all,

I am so new to all of this - bc, message boarding, etc...I, admittedly, have been "lurking" on this site for a few weeks.

You all are incredible - your strength, courage, & ability to reach out is inspiring. I had my first treatment ( tc x 4 ) back on Dec. 28th, & all your posts gave me the strength, & necessary info I needed to

face my first treatment head on ( I was up late the night before reading them ). The first week was rough, but I survived - I had the full range of GI symptoms, a chest cold, and a

temporary rash...then the clouds parted on day 6, & I emerged...starving! These days I'm just sitting around waiting for my hair to fall out ( at least the se's are spread out ).

Anyway, just wanted to say HI, & to thank you all for being my " behind the scenes " strength. 

suz45

LOL, Thanks Laura

Nothing like a little make up & a wig to make a gal feel better. I was trying to show my b-day earrings, have to laugh as I can't even see them.

Hugs Suz

clsd

Oh Suz, I thought that was your "North America's Next Top Model" pose ! You look great, with or without the bling,wig and make up. Your SMILE is what stands out.

Therese, glad you have emerged from the chemo world. I too am doing TCx4, and come out on day six also. My headache is gone, and my belly feels much better. Today in NJ it will be almost 60 degrees, and the way I choose to look at it, God has given me a gift of warmth, and I am going to get me some of that later today. A walk, maybe even a little sun on my baltitude, why not ?!I'll close my eyes and imagine I am on a beach in the Caribbean holding a cold Corona ( Poland Spring for now) listening to the waves !! I am so excited !

I wore one of my new t-shirts yesterday, and it was a big hit " BALD CHICKS ROCK". So, last night while in bed, not able to sleep,( NO not doing horizontal mambo either) I imagined a t-shirt, after reading lots of witty bc posts here and there, and thought I would see if you all think it would be marketable...(not really, just funny)

Front                 BALD CHICKS MAKE BETTER LOVERS

Back                   (pink bc ribbon) FUBC (pink bc ribbon )

So what do you think, do I have a future in clothing design?

Got to get my youngest ready for school. I'll grab some extra sun therapy for you ladies too. xoxoxo  cindy

wishiwere

Cindy...Love your t-shirt slogan, but always wonder about the little ones reading something like and the poor parents explaining it all!   Glad you are on the other side of the treatment today!

It was nearly 60 (59 is close enough for me in January!)  So that's exactly what I did!  When for a long walk among the back couple acres and just really enjoyed watching the birds and seeing what the rain has revealed in the gardens.  Well, not the rabbit doodoo, but all the rest!  Surprisingly, even some of the grass was greening up from all the rain already! 

Therese, sorry you had any SE, but I suppose they mean they are working?  At least that's what I tell myself on the better days!  

Suz?  Sorry can't see the earrings   Maybe a shot of them as a close up?

Isn't everyone enjoying this great mid-winter break in weather?  Although I was saddened to see the destruction to others in wisc and south missouri