Jan 2008--Ain't it Great?

joteach

Good evening Jewels,

My tx today went very well. It was longer than I thought it would be but the time went by pretty fast. My friend was with me and we talked a lot. I wore my t-shirt - FUBC and the nurses loved it!

I'm getting tired now and will check in tomorrow. Now I'm 1/2 way done!!!!

Dana - My prayers are with you. Thanks for the references to the Scriptures. I, too find they really help.

D1 and Carol - loved the pictures!

Joan

kris60

yup. past midnight here and dieing, well, not really, the pain is the worst i've ever had in my life. i'd rather go through childbirth and a root canal again....... I found a few hours of little relief on my belly, but can't really sleep on it..... right now i'm on my knees in front of the computer because if I sit it starts spasming my lower back/butt area...I can feel some pain in my thighs because of my 'current seating arrangement' but it's better than the back...I'm going to try the family room floor tonight,

I feel so bad keeping dh up half the night.

thanks for the tip D1, too bad all I have is reg chalky tylenol.. I was so tempted to take an 800mg motrin.but Dr's don't want me taking anything buy tylenol.  Time to go cry through the initial pain of finding a semi comfy spot........ sweet dreams for those that are still up....

Kris 

joteach

Good morning Jewels,

Dana -I loved the list you shared of dealing with bc. I agree with every single one and will save this list to read again and again.

 I have read some things about a treatment for chemo/rads called reiki. Has anyone heard of this?

Joan

KathyL

Good morning Jewels!  Feeling sluggish today.  Maybe b/c I was up at 2:30 with ds.  That little bugger wanted "mama" and I can't resist him sometimes.  He's started potty training-- so proud of him and hoping he GETS IT so we can be done with diapers in this house!  Prior to this past week the only place he'd pee was NEXT to the potty, in the tub, or running naked down the hall-- such a male.  We finally have some progress now!

Hoping the girls bellying up to the chemo bar today have an uneventful day. 

Sheshe:  Do they mean micromets to your nodes?  Would've been nice if someone had relayed that info to you, huh?  I know no one mentioned my stage to me either-- I saw it on one of my final path reports too and I verified it then. 

Carol:  LOL!  You sound (and look) like you had a great day!  You are a "hoot"!  And you're such a little woman, I agree with D1 about the uni-boob/cy-boob look-- hee hee!  But the final results look awesome and must be such a great boost to you

Kris60:  oh no!  it sounds like another Jewel has fallen prey to the nasty-lasta spasms.  I would definitely ask for something stronger for your pain (Percocet?  Vicodin?).  My onc does let me take Motrin b/c my platelet count is OK and it does help me-- but I don't have the same spasm-y pain that you and so many others do.  My pain feels more like I've been beat up and all my upper body bones are bruised really bad (ribs up to head).  I don't like anything to touch me for about 1 1/2-2 days when it's the worst.  Laying down hurts, but moving hurts too.  Then when that's done, my knees and legs start to hurt for 1-2 days.  Get something stronger, lady!  Don't suffer anymore.

Dana: Oh sweetie... I am so sorry to hear your news.  {{((Big Hug))}} to you.  I'll be thinking and praying for you.  How do they know from just looking that it's liver CA and not BC on the liver?  I would think the biposy will tell you more and guide your tx.  We're all here for you...

Well, off to get ready for today.  We got about 2" of snow yesterday and it's still really cold.  I'm headed to the therapist's and then to the ps with my friend for her last fill, then we're going to lunch.  She gets her exchange done next month.  Catch you gems later

tinalee123

Good morning Jewels!  Sorry I haven't been in touch much the last two weeks.  Got a new 'puter and have been getting everything copied over from the old one, as it's going to ds #2.  But, now I think I've got everything the way I want it.  Thank goodness I'm married to a geek. 

Love seeing all the pics -- everyone is so beautiful!  Carol, your boop pics cracked me up.  It's nice to put real faces with the names and postings.  I will have to get all the technology I have here at home and do the same.

Thanks for the good wishes today, Carol.  As I go for tx #4 (the last of the AC), I'll be wearing my FUBC shirt and sending best wishes to those joining me.  

I hope those that had tx earlier this week and last are/will be blessed with mild se's.  Unlike tx #2, I did get my good week last week with #3.  Hoping the same for all of you.

Will check in later...

Tina 

Wing

Got some laughs and tears reading the comments today.

Dana, My heart goes to you I wish you the best.

Carol, You crack me up I love the pics I wish was there!

WVgirl, I don't know what I would do without my truly dh and ds x2

they have all been more than there for me.  I hope your DH will come around as you need him now more than ever.

Kathy, Cherish these days with the dd as time flys next thing you know you'll be going to HS graduation.

Kris, If you have any painkillers left from surgery use em' I took 1 at bedtime to help me sleep and it helped.

Paula, Hope the nyquil does its magic for you.

D1, I'm glad your having a good week enjoy it!

sheshe48

Hi Jewells,

Wishing everyone well today.

Dana  I'm so sorry to hear your cancer is spreading. You already have a fighting spirit. I'm praying it's early stages on the liver and you will be fine. Sending positive prayers for you.

D1.  I thought I would tell you a funny story about vernors. My mothers family is from Tenn. over 20 years ago I moved out there and was trying to find vernors, one store finally got it in after I lived there for awhile. And when I see it I got excited and I'm buying lots of it. Saying I haven't had this since I left MI. People are looking queer at me, like I'm nuts or something. My uncle said its says it's made of from worm wood. The man at the store said no one was buying it because they all thought it was made from worms. They are so backward it was so funny. I explained it was not made from worms, it simply was aged in worm wood, which is wood. Any way it finally caught on. Yeah your right it is hard to find in other states. I was raised on it like you.

Carol  I loved the pix of you and your girlfriend. Glad you got your bras. I also had a wonderful experience when I got my new bras. I could not use the prosthesis, I'm allergic to latex and when I tried on the insert it burnt my skin immediately. The one they gave me to try on was silicone and it did the same thing. I'm one size smaller in my right boob than the left. But you look great.

PAlady

Hi All I am just copying a lot of this from another post I did.

Well, I had my 3^rd treatment Friday and it was by far the worst.  I had to take ds to the E. R.  on Monday for xrays on his knee which he injured over the weekend. While there, I ended up have a fainting spell much like during #1. I was so embarrassed. They had a nurse come get me to the restroom and she gave me a whiff of smelling salts. I know it was all do to the stupid constipation just as it was first round.  Managed to get past all of that and feeling well enough to drive home which I was glad cause ds, had injured his right knee and of course could not drive us.  All was well until Monday night. I woke up feeling very fluish - with achy bones. Took some Tylenol and went back to sleep till had to get youngest ds to school. This is the first time I have really felt the whole sore achy bones. I also for the first time had the numb mouth feeling where everything just tasted like cardboard. Just laid around on Tuesday but was really unable to sleep which drives me crazy. Early that evening finally got things moving in the bm department, thankfully. I ended up crying on and off for about 4 hours that night which I have not been through that feeling either. Just totally feeling sorry for myself.

Yesterday I felt much better physically and mentally. I ended up going to a BC support group meeting last about nutrition. One of the ladies there who had just finished her treatment last month actually had hair last night!  I was glad to see that hers had grown so much in one month and it looked straight so far.

Today I feel a bit achier than yesterday, but no where near like Tuesday. Today is usually the day I start with the Neulasta spasms. It usually starts around 5pm. I have been doing the Claritin experiment, though.  I started the Claritin Monday morning before I went to get my shot. I have taken one everyday.  I really don't think it is going to make a difference, but we'll see. I usually don't have this achy feeling on this day post treatment, so who knows.

I did get a bill for my first Neulasta shot yesterday. It was almost $600. I would guess that is probably why some doctors don't automatically give it.  I have already fulfilled my out of pocket for this year, so I may as well keep getting it, if the insurance is going to pay for it.

golfer - I got my shirt and I love it! That was a nice cheer-up. Thanks so much for taking care of that. I LOVED your pictures from the boob shopping. You have such a great outlook on all of this!

Kimberly - I love your idea for making notes in the word document. It drives me crazy trying to figure out how to read and write without losing my train of thought!  Hope your se's are doing well this time.

wvgirl - I went and got some gingersnaps and I think they really do help on settling the stomach!  Still hoping your DH comes around for you.

Dana - sorry about your mri. As always, keeping you in prayer.

Hope everyone is doing well. Good luck to anyone getting infusions today and tomorrow!

kris60

 

SISKimberly

Good Morning Jewels,

Kathy- I’m so glad you had such a good day with the dd, and that’s she’s so excited about being IN Kindergarten. Man, it seems like such a long time ago that my Jon was that age…almost 20 years ago (he’ll be 25 in August). He’s moving to Rocklin again, into the investment house, and he tells his girlfriend every time he passes La Petite Academy that it is where he went to Kindergarten. Must have been a good experience in his mind…and it was a great place.



Up at 2:30am…needed to pee, or just wanted to be with mommy? I remember when Jon was finally potty trained…what a huge relief. Have fun today with your girlfriend.



SheShe- I’ll email you and get your address, so we can get you your very own Jan. Jewels shirt. Hey, I’m sorry I totally skipped mentioning your daughters wedding in August. The flowers and dresses sound beautiful. Congrats to her and to the mother of the bride. Ok, what is Verners…a soda pop like drink? Weird about the allergic reaction to the prosthesis being made of latex and silicone. Has extra padding in the one side of your bra been tried yet? If that doesn’t work, will you do a reconstruction down the line?



Carol- Loved the pics. I’m so pleased that you had such a great time with your friend, made the day of your fitter, Ashley, and found exactly what you were looking for…Look Good Feel Good, eh? Hope your dinner outing went well and that your tummy cooperated. All that boob excitement got the gastric juices flowing. Oh, got my medium shirt yesty, and it fits so much better. Thanks.



Kris- Sounds like a reaction to the Nasty Lasta to me. Bummer. If the Tylenol doesn’t touch the pain, call your doc for something stronger…unless you have leftover surgery pain meds you could try. (((gentle HUGS)))) Hope the pain doesn’t last too long. Glad things settled down around 5am. Great pic of the gang at work. That is so great that so many are supporting you. An aircraft mechanic…wow!!!!

Crawling around in small places around an aircraft in pain won’t be a good thing, so getting stronger meds will help if you should need to be at work soon. Get lots of sleep today.



Spoke too soon. Oh, man up at midnight and in such pain…I’d be calling my doctor today and getting something to stop the spasms/pain. No one should have to deal with that kind of pain. ((((more gentle hugs))))



Dana- Oh my darlin’, I’m so sorry that you got cancer in the liver news, but like Kathy said once you have the biopsy it will let you know if it’s bc spread or a different cancer. You’re right, it will be good to know going into chemo treatment what you’re up against, so you and your new oncologist can have the best plan in place to treat you. And…taking the dogs out for a walk to get fresh air is also a good way to take care of yourself. You’re in my thoughts sweetie. ((((HUGS)))) Sounds like you’re getting a lot from your new book. I’m glad it is bringing you comfort.



Paula- Man, that virus is just not willing to let you go. Glad the Nyquil is working to at least help you sleep and that you got grades and lesson plans done. Hope you slept well last night and feel much better in the AM. The good news is you are at least on the downward slide feeling just tired and not 100%, and not like death warmed over anymore.



D1- Glad you got a kick out of the floating boob story…sounds like dear Carol has a swimming boob…will that fit into a special swim suit, or will your own suit be fitted with a pocket…a secure pocket. About your license plate…bummer others have stolen our acronym. I’m assuming you’ve tried using those symbols in a variety of combinations already. Beat It might be appropriate since you’ll have the plate longer as a survivor than someone curing the diagnosis and treatment phase.



Joan- Welcome to the half way mark…me too. Take care of you…and hoping your se’s are easy on you. Yes, I’ve heard of Rieki. My cousin is getting trained. It’s supposed to be good for moving chemo through the system, treating swelling, and helping scar tissue be broken down, I believe. Can you give us the link to what you’ve been reading?



Tina- WhooHoo on the new puter…and I second the blessings of being married to a geek. Good luck today, and glad to hear that you got a good third week after your last tx…let’s hope this last AC is just as cooperative.



Hey Wendy- Sound like things are going well for you, since you only did shout outs. Excellent!



PALady- I’m sorry your tx 3 has been the worst so far…hope that doesn’t foretell how my tx 3 done Tuesday is going to go. Of course, unlike you SHERO, I don’t have little ones to get ready for school and take care of daily. It’s two days after tx 3, and so far nothing so horrible I can’t deal with rest and preventative pharmaceuticals. Take care sweetie. Glad the composing in word was a helpful idea for you.



If I’m up to it, I’ll be going to school today for a big Roseville Teacher’s Union meeting regarding our contract and the district offering us 0% this year. The district is claiming they need to keep the COLA money given to the state to use next year to deal with the big budget cuts next year. The District already has a 7% emergency type fund for things just like next year’s potential budget cuts. We are only required to have 3%. We worked really hard last year to get the district to give us COLA, which we reminded them wasn’t a raise, but a cost of living increase. Many of our teachers made less take home the year prior due to the higher cost of out of pocket health care costs, and we won the full COLA last year. This year, we understand the problems, and we aren’t greedy, but we can’t except nothing with health care increasing again this year.



Other than that…I’m taking it really easy today.



Take care Jewels.

SIS Kimberly

LilWarrior

Yes I will find out if its a different Cancer but I dont think it is - I think it spreaded from the Breast.  Either way, Cancer is Cancer! I am still not claiming I have Cancer in the Liver now because God is going to cure me from all this - just watch and see!  I will be the one to pull this off!

Love ya Ladies - and please I am begging you continue to pray for me because I have a long battle to fight!  Hugs.....

Dana 

Cathy-CA

Dana -- Keep up the good spirits, because attitude is so important.  But realize that cancer treatment has become very sophisticated, so it's critical to know exactly what type.  For example, since you are HER2+, Herceptin is an incredibly effective treatment for many.  If it does turn out to be cancer in your liver and it is breast cancer that is HER2+, Herceptin may keep it from spreading any further.  Since you are in Southern Cal, see if you can get a referral to City of Hope.  There are a lot of treatment options available there that aren't readily available elsewhere.

mom2daughters

Dana-I have added you to my prayer list.  Keep being positive and strong.  Your loving and sunny spirit will help you fight this.  Thanks for your beautiful post of inspirations.  I have printed them and keep them posted by my computer.  hugs your way......Kim

Determined1

Another, happy, busy, day.  Why is it when we feel good we're running around like chickens with our heads cut off????

Went to the gym and it appears that all the exercises my pt has added for my spasms and sciatic nerve have caused my routine to balloon to a 2 hour commitment!  When I'm done with all this bc business, I'm only going to be able to get a part time job so I have time for all my exercises!

After the gym I went to pt.  My usual pt was unremarkable (although I still do moan and drool when she gives me the butt massage), but my visit with my lymphedema specialist was great.  She taught me how to use massage to encourage my fluid to travel to other lymph nodes.  While massaging me, she noted that I have a lot of fluid along my torso on the side and around on my shoulder blade.  I'm hoping these techniques will get it moving to more receptive lymph nodes.  She also said I might be a good candidate for a compression garment (that sure sounds fun) to keep myself from ballooning up.  Unfortunately, I think I have a pretty serious problem with the le, but I'm hopeful that this gal will be able to teach me how to manage it so I don't end up with an elephant arm!

Then I managed to get the Tea Tree Oil.  I'm afraid to open it as the clerk at GNC said it really smells bad.  I'm hoping it will keep my nails on my fingers and toes...

Tonight are District semi-finals for my daughter's bball team.  She got 7 minutes on Monday in the first round, but I'm not too sure about tonight (her team has played their opponent twice during the regular season and she didn't get in to either game--bummer).  I really feel for her this year.  Last year she was 7th/8th man, which for a sophomore on varsity was really good.  This year, they got a new coach.  Only one player graduated last year, so it's essentially the same team, but now my kid is the last one to go in, if she plays at all.  We're just not sure what happened.  And it's been really weird cause the other parents started calling my dh and me about a month ago to pass along that their daughters tell them that my dd is a "beast" (that's good) at practice and that they don't know why the coach doesn't play her.  I think my kid must've done something early in the season to piss the coach off and now she's paying for it.  Which is too bad cause over the years all we've ever heard from coaches is what a pleasure it is to have our kid on the team.  Who knows.  Well, there's a non-bc vent for ya.  Best get to my shout-outs cause I'm imagining Kris in a ball on the floor...

Kris--OMG.  It makes me sad to read about your pain.  I agree with Wendy, SIS Kimberly and KathyL, dig out the painkillers from surgery and take them (I did this when I couldn't get my back under control the first time).  You should not be in that much pain.  Also, try laying flat on your back and pull your knees up to your chin and hold them there with your arms around your legs.  Kinda like the fetal position, except you're on your back.  The stretch seems to alleviate my pain a little.  I will say I've gotten better at managing the pain with every tx.  I discovered that I can't do any exerting from the day I get the neulasta shot till after I pass the spasm day (I get the shot on Friday and have spasms the following Wednesday like clockwork).  From Friday to Wednesday I use the heating pad whenever I sit and I don't do any exercise or much walking.  Even tho I feel "okay" on Monday and Tuesday, I really try to lay around till after Wednesday.  Maybe that will help you next time.  And get the max str. tylenol and tylenol pm.  They don't make the pain go away, but I figure it must be lessening it.

Joan--Hooray, you're halfway done!!!  Hope your se's aren't too bad.

KathyL--good luck with that potty-training.  I remember many things fondly from my girls' toddler years, but potty-training is not one of them.  I was just happy to get through that!

PALady--I'm sorry you're achier this time.  Are you staying on the Maximum Strength Tylenol to manage that?  (No, I do not work for Tylenol.)  Hope you're feeling better.

Get more money for teachers, SIS Kimberly!!!!

g2g.  Gotta fix my dd dinner before she catches the bus to her game.

D1

Determined1

Good luck tomorrow, Billsgirl!!!  Go kick some BCA!!!

D1

RN2teach

Good evening, Jewels!

Feeling a little better every day here. My whole body was sore thru the weekend--thankfully that's just about gone now. I'm insanely dry this time--probably one of the reasons my night cough is hanging on. The taste buds are def. messed up, and the inside of my mouth feels like it is coated with lard--YUCK! My tea tastes okay, water is nasty though. I'm carrying my mouthwash with me so I can gargle more often--seems to be helping. Everything else is going okay. Colace is keeping things moving on the other end.

Oh yeah, I was having a big prob. with the watery eyes as many of you all reported. I did warm moist soaks and massaged the tear ducts 3-4 times a day thru the weekend and the watery eyes are gone. I'm doing the soaks once a day now. Hope this is helpful to some of you who are experiencing this problem.

D1 and Sherry- Vernor's???

Sherry- how exciting to have your dd's wedding to look forward to! It sure sounds beautiful. Keep us posted on the plans as they develop.

Kris- your back pains sound so familiar. On the hopeful side, I had the spasms after my first Neulasta, but not after the 2nd one. It has been 6 days since #3 for me... holding my breath that the spasms stay away! Get some good drugs to help you through the rough days! Your support group is awesome, BTW--thanks for sharing the picture!

Kathy- I love hearing about your little ones... potty training.... def. one of those things I DON'T miss. Hope it goes well for you and ds!

Joan and Tinalee- hope the se are mild from your chemo this week.

PaLady- you had it rough there trying to take care of your ds during the "dark days" after your chemo. Sounds like you're turning the corner on the se's. Got my fingers crossed for you (and me) that the spasms stay away!

Kimberly- you're sounding mighty perky for someone 2 days post-chemo. Wishing you success in getting your COLA!

Dana- praying for you, sister, stay strong!

D1- wishing your dd GOOD LUCK tonite in the semifinals. Hope she gets some court time!

Billsgirl- tomorrow's your day... hope everything goes well.

LJ, oh LJ?! How are you? Aren't you starting your T+ herceptin this week?

CHJ??? Haven't seen you on the boards this week. Hope you're okay.

Deb1023- how's the tooth? Hope you're feeling better!

Julie?- how's this round been treatin' you?

Vettegal- hope the sharts are gone and Vetteguy is taking good care of you!

Sista, Jenn51, Maz, and Jkiss- you gals doing okay?

Hope all the Jewels have a nice evening.

Paula

chj127

Hi Paula (and everyone),

Thanks for asking. I've been fighting the chest cold all week.  Between that and the cold, yucky weather, I've been down in the dumps.  I think if I didn't have the cold, I wouldn't be experiencing any se's at all, but can't enjoy that.  Went to the onco for my 10-day check and all of my counts were good.  But I had to wait an hour and 15 minutes to see the onco for about 3 minutes!!  I am thinking seriously about changing onco's, I just don't gel with this guy, I feel like he's patronizing, the office is always full and claustrophobic, and it's so depressing.  The nurses are awesome, so that's what is keeping me there for now.  But I can't imagine keeping with this doc through treatment and beyond.

<<<whine>>>  Sorry!  I'm just depressed these days!  But I have been keeping up with posts.  Thanks to everyone who is being positive lately, it helps me, really it does!

CHJ 

deb102307

Just a quick check in.  I haven't had the energy or time to read all the posts yet.  I hope that everyone is doing ok / or starting to at least.

My partner's mother is dying and it will probably only be a few days.  I am trying so hard to be supportive.  It just takes alot of energy out of me.  She says I am helping so I guess she understands that i am doing what I can.

My tooth is better and hopefully will be able to delay root canal for a while.

Will probably be lurking this weekend, but know that my thoughts and prayers are with every single jewel on this message board.

JulieK_11_30_07

Hi Dear Jewels --

I'm just taking a moment out from my personal "pity party" to let you know I'm thinking about you all. I had tx on 2/14 and am now fighting the delayed nausea/vomiting again. I was in yesterday to get a second dose of Aloxi, then they had me come in again today for Zofran and more IV fluids -- of course I was dehydrated too. Still can't keep anything down for any length of time.

To top it all off, tomorrow is my 39th b-day and I'm just depressed b/c I won't even be able to eat a decent meal and have some b-day cake! I'm certainly in the mode of "poor me" right now -- sorry girls.

Hope the rest of you are having better weeks than I am!

Love to all!

Julie

golfer779

Wow, finally sat and read yesterday and todays post ...

Billsgirl, looks like your turn to belly up to the bar tomorrow, as I see it this is your last round of AC.  Gotta like that milestone!!!

Wendy, boy what a scare for a 19 yr old, so glad that her results were good. 

Sheshe, how fun, an Aug wedding.  That has to keep your mind occupied with something other than the "C" word.   My "boob form" is made by Amonea (I checked out the literature with it, kinda quickly a few min ago), I can't seem to see what its made out of.  If I get some info that may help I'll pass it on to you.

Joan, glad to see that your nurses had a good sense of humor with your FUBC shirt.  I can't believe over all the years that more nurses havn't seen such a thing.  I can't remember who started this descriptive acroynm (D1 is my guess)!

KathyL, looks like grandma's room is filling up!  I was discussing the memory problem with the dh, who informed me that he had been noticing it but hadn't brought it to my attn.  He thinks that I'm on mental overload (although I don't see it myself).  I have been quite the "chatty Cathy" no pun intended on the phone and emails over the last few months where I would typically not be near the puter or phone if I could help it.  Can't remember who I've told what.

I got a kick out of your ds peeing next to the toilet!  My son took quite some time himself to "get it".  I was hoping at one point he would not out grow a pull up!  Happy to report he will be 16 in a couple months and "he got it"!!!!  He would be totally ticked to know I just wrote that!

LJ, I'm so happy that you could give Kalen such a blow by blow on the AC txt and your experience.  I met with her this evening, what a great gal, she printed out your notes for reference.  She going to be "armed and dangerous" when next Thurs gets here.

wvgirl, I'm not quite sure what to say about your dh and his DH attitude.  Wish I could just reach through this puter and bopped him on the head and give a wake up call ... since I can't, please rely on the support you have from your bro, your support group and of course all of us.

Kimberly, what great timing you have with Auntie Flo.  I guess if your not going to be on top of your game right now, adding that to the mix might not be so bad.  That just makes those good days that much better.  Hope you we're able to attend your negotiations today, and you teachers get what you deserve.  A good teacher is definitely a HERO/SHERO in my book.  All of us can remember those "great" teachers we have had and the difference they have made in our lives.

Kris, Okay pain worse than childbirth, you have my sympathy.  I havn't been able to relate to alot of the se mentioned throughout the last month or two but when you say labor pains OMG I'll pass.  I do only have "one" son for a reason!!!  Loved your group photo and the spirit of your co-workers.  We have a similarity in the work place, I work with all men as well, and love it!

Dana, so sorry to hear that you did not get the news you would have liked.  Keep your spirits up, you still have testing to do for a final diagnosis.

Paula, glad to hear that atleast your back in your bed ... hope the Nyquil does the trick when you lay down. 

D1, missed my opportunity with my "photo shoot", should have gone with the Uni-boob in the middle shot.  I've had alot of fun with my pics, made the fil blush tonight.  Said he could feel my new hoot, he reluctantly copped a little feel, really freaked him out when I took it out.  When I told him how much it cost he said he needed to get in the business.

Hope you have some good results from your massage txt your pt suggested.  Are you talking about a compression garmet for your body or arm?  I'm still waiting on my referal from insurance for a sleeve.

Tina, gotta love those dh's who can be handy with the puters.  I'm not very savvy myself, when I posted pics yesterday it took me over an hour to figure it out and I had just posted pics about two weeks ago.  Must be that memory problem again.  I usually rely on my dh to do all the puter/camera stuff.

PALady, boy now thats some constipation!!!  And I thought I had a problem, I'm feeling more "regular" by the moment!  Glad that you seem to be a little more on track.  Whew ... $600 for a shot that makes you feel crappy and is supposed to be good for you.  Thank god for insurance!  So is your ds knee okay?

chj, good news on your counts being up, bummer your onc is not the most desirable.  I say there are alot of fish in the water and a change sounds as if it would be a good move for you.  This is about "you" not your doc!

Deb, I was sorry to hear about your dp's mom.  That is definitely a tough time for the whole family.  Hopefully she is not in any pain, and when the time comes passes peacefully.  I've been through the Hospice experience with my mom and knowing that she was not in pain made the experience a little bit easier.

Jenn51, hope your doing alright, havn't seen you on the post in a while.  I sent a copy of the Celine special to you, I was in a rush when I packaged it (running out in the am to work), so its kinda impersonal without even a little note.  Hope that it brings you atleast 60 minutes of enjoyment.

Kalen, I think we're going to get along just fine!  My kinda gal friend, no nonsense, call a spade a spade, and may I say even more organized than I.  Looking forward to seeing you in the near future!

Time to watch Oprah at 9:00pm, I have to say I loved Dancing With the Stars and she has the whole group!!!

To the bed and tv ... night all!

Carol

golfer779

Julie, you can bring your pity party here anytime. 

Happy Birthday to you, although this will maybe not be your "best" b-day, I have a hunch it will be your most memorable.

Tomorrow is a new day and hopefully you will start to see some relief from the meds they gave yesterday.  I was sure hoping that they would have gotten you figured out with the nausea problem, your sure having to be the group trooper on the nausea front.

Remember you can celebrate on any day and call it your b-day party ... hang in there gal and again happy 39th to you!

Carol

Vz_mom

Julie, just a thought...why celebrate your presence on earth only one day a year, on the anniversary of your arrival?  have an UN-birthday party whenever you bloody well feel like it!!

yes, we watch a lot of Alice in Wonderland :-)

Carol, I had a great time.  thanks for taking the time out of your day to meet, and I'm looking forward to doing it again soon too.

sleep well, everyone.

Kalen

kris60

a quick Happy Birthday Julie   I know the feeling, I just turned 40 last month and met my Onc on my birthday.... You're here and still here to celebrate it with us....time to boogie to work

PAlady

Julie,

Happy Birthday!!!

golfer779

D1 - Okay, this is getting scary when I wake up in the morning wondering if your daughter got some play time last night. 

Hoping your wig stayed put at the game , and that your daughter got some quality play time.

I'm glad my son switched to a team yet individual sport (have an inline speed skating meet this weekend), his performance is solely based on his own hard work!!!  We've had "that" coach before and it was on a b-ball team.  I'm not sure if its harder on the kid or us parents.  Hang in there mom ... Carol

KathyL

Good morning Jewels!  Short post b/c the kids are home today from preschool-- we got snow last night and expecting rain with ice today, so I kept them home.  Most schools in the area are closed anyway.  I've read everyone's post, but the ol' chemo brain is kind slow today so just know I read them all and am thinking of all of you.  What I can remember:

SIS Kimberly:  Teachers, like nurses, are not paid enough for the work they do!  I hope things turn out ok for your group.  Know that there are many of us out there that appreciate the work you (and many other jewels here) do as teachers.  You guys mold our futures!

chj:  trust your gut instinct.  If your doc and you don't mesh... I'd say it's time to find a new one.  It's just too important.  You need to like and trust your onc as you're putting your life in their hands.

deb102307: hugs to you and your dp.  I hope her mother passes in comfort.  Do you have hospice? (I think Carol asked about this, too)-- a wonderful resource.  My friend's mil just died and they said hospice was a HUGE help and took care of everything for them.  You have so much on your plate...

JulieK:  Pity party is allowed here!  But also a b-day party, too-- Happy 39th girl!!  I agree with whomever said you don't need a special day to celebrate a b-day and life.  Put a candle in some Jello today and celebrate big another day.  Just think of how good 40 looks right now   Wishing they'd gotten the nausea stuff right this time, but hoping it's shortened at least for you.

Gotta run.. it's TOO quiet in the other room.

KathyL

Got this in an e-mail and thought of the Jewels:

Forgive quickly,

Kiss slowly,

Love truly,

Laugh uncontrollably,

Pray without ceasing,

And never regret anything that makes you smile!

You girls make me smile, even when I don't think I can.  Thanks for always being there.  I'll never regret being stuck to my computer during this chemo journey as this group has been a lifeline in so many ways

Wing

Happy Friday Jewel's,

Kinda yucky day here in NE of course, the dh and I were supposed to go out to dinner with some friends but 6-10" of snow is predicted for today so that is squashed.  Murphy's law because I feel good today and was looking forward to going out and maybe enjoying a frosty beverage with friends.

Happy Birthday Julie!  My 46th was on the 2nd 2 days after chemotini so mine s@#*^%d too!  I figure there is always next year!

Deb102307, My thoughts are with you an your dp do the best you can.

D1, How did the game go any playtime?

Carol and Kalen, You 2 are lucky to live close to each other I wish I lived new a Jewel so we could get together for lunch sounds like fun.

Kimberly, Sorry to hear about Aunt Flo I'll know if she is visiting next week.  I wonder what happened to this instant shutdown I've heard about it's the only thing we premenapauser's have to look forward to with this BC ordeal.

Kathy, Good luck with the potty training thing, I have 2 ds and I used to call them the miss fire brothers.

Well the dryer is calling me have a great day everyone!

Determined1

Good morning, Jewels!

We have .25" of ice on everything here, but I still have my electricity, thank goodness!!  No school today, so the dd and I are chillin' in front of our computers.  Dh returns from a biz trip to CA tonight, I'm hoping everythings clears off so he can land.

CHJ--you're certainly getting it from all sides, aren't you?  I think the onc is making you sick!  You need a new one.  (I blame all the negs in this experience on my onc--I just need a scapegoat.)  Seriously, it's a long-term relationship and you need to have 100% confidence in your onc.  Maybe start nosing around to see what else is out there.

Deb--I'm sorry to read about your dp's mom.  Neither of you needs the additional emotional whammy of coping with the death of a parent right now.  I'll hope for a peaceful end, then you and dp can celebrate her life.

Julie--HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!  (I celebrated mine a week after the fact--spreads it out!)  Just get that vomitus under control--wouldn't that be the best gift????

Kris--you're at work??  I hope, hope, hope that means your back is feeling better...

Carol--the compression garment she thinks I'll need looks like the kind of bra your grandma wore (slap in the face to someone who just turned 50, if you ask me).  It would cover my shoulder blades and extend down my torso as far as needed to compress the areas affected.  It would be fitted to me ($$$$).  It would be in addition to my sleeve.  Basically, I'll just be running around like a stuffed sausage...

Well, the dd did not get into the game last night.  They lost.  Just desserts, if you ask me (no, I'm not bitter).  They have still qualified for the Regional Tournament, so they have another game on Monday night.  Hopefully, they'll lose that one and this season will be over (don't tell her coach this is my attitude).  Luckily, dd has AAU tryouts on Sunday and if she gets the same coach she had last year, he'll work on rebuilding her confidence and has said he wants to give her lots of playing time.  I hope we can keep him to his word...

(For those of you who don't know, AAU is pretty intense.  Practices during the week and then 4 games every weekend from March till July.  Parents basically give up on laundry and mowing the lawn.  But your kid has a chance to play against some of the best players in the region.  Our club travels all up and down the mid-Atlantic entering tournaments, so it's fun for the kids.)

Hey Vettegal, how's it goin'?

D1

Anonymous

Hey Paula, gang, how's it going.

Had TX#1 of Herceptin/Taxol yesterday. It was relatively unadventurous. But OMG, do they pump you full of drugs. I took my usual pre-TX Ativan, then from beginning to end they gave me: Benadryl, Decadron, Zofran, Pepcid, saline, Herceptin and Taxol. I think that's all, but there might have been another. Oh yeah, I took the last of my antibiotics too. Before they started the Taxol the nurse declared to the room, "OK, first time Taxol starting here. Jill, Judy, did you hear me, first time Taxol." It was weird and yet somewhat reassuring. Anyway, I spared them the adventure of an adverse reaction. Actually I could barely keep my eyes open between the Ativan and Benadryl. I think I dozed a little at one point. 

WHen I got home I felt very tired, and didn't even want dinner much, but had a small sandwich. I didn't feel that good, but I think it was mostly because of ALL the drugs in me, not any particular one drug.

Today, I feel pretty good so far. Looking forward to lunch, that's a good sign.

I'll keep y'all posted on the post-Taxol/Herceptin adventure.

Well wishes to everyone in all your various stages of Dx, Tx, and SEs.