**NEW** Starting Chemo March 2009

Dawnmrn1

Hi All ~I have been lurking but not posting much!  I am so happy to hear of all of the positives!!! Beth(Pickle) you are such a beautiful inspiration, we are so lucky to have you!!! Deb!  Glad to hear things are progressing that red devil is tough, but so are you! Sakura!  I am happy for you live in the minute, that is one thing this past year has taught this old mare!!! Be happy now and don't worry sooooo much about tomorrow!!! Francine!  I wish you well you are due for some sucess!  I am well, my 15 yo is thriving in High School and I . I hope am recovering, I go to the Onc on Tues. for my BW results!!! nervous!!!! Michelle

!  So good to hear from you everthing in this life is for a reason!!!! My computer is acting weird sorry this is bunched together!!!! Go figure! love, Dawn

ChrisC433

Just wanted to share real quick...

Bone scan showed osteopenia (?) so I will be taking yet another pill, Fosomax (?)

Going off Arimidex for 3 weeks to check SE's, then either restart same or try Femara.  If both have same SE's then I will take something to eliviate the SE's and just live with it.

My youngest son won his football championship today.  This was his first year playing and he did awesome...9-0!!  He is just beaming....just makes me soooo happy!

Glad everyone is doing well.  Deb...almost done, hang in there.  Sakura...only you can live your life, enjoy your happiness!  Dawn...good luck with BW.  I get mine in 2 weeks...nervous too!

Hope everyone had a great weekend....here comes another Monday!

crusader1

Sakura I am so happy for you. We all remember your difficult breakup. If you feel this is the right thing go for it. I know you are happy. Thks for sharing this with your BC friends.

Hugs,

Francine

Mom_of_boys

Dawn... Good luck!  Please keep us posted.

Sakura... Obviously, we're going to be a bit protective of you, but we want you to be happy.  If he treats you wrong this time, I'll be leading a pack of angry BC survivors down your way to take him on!

Chris... Has your onc mentioned anything about Zometa?  And, congrats on your son's win.

Luv2sing

Hello All!

I'm trying to stay on top of the posts, but you all are too fast for me!

Dawn-Good Luck with your tests results.

Chris - Congrats to your son!

Deb - Almost done!

Everyone - Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Special note to Sakura - One thing I've learned ... life is too short.  Continue to live your's to the fullest; grab happiness whenever  you can; love as hard as you can and as they say 'dance like nobody's watching'!  Always remember God places people in our lives for a reason, a season and a purpose.

 I'm going to bed now ... Hugs to everyone!!!

pickle

Rachel: Well...where do I start sweet sister.  The news of getting together again with Damian brought tears to my eyes. I know your friends are being protective and I fully understand that but....sometimes you need to take a leap of faith. If you are finding great joy and passion in your life with Damian then I say "go for it". Life is too short sweetie. I don't really know how old you are and maybe you have said before but this old chemo brain ain't what it used to be. I have a 23 year old daughter who will be getting married in the summer. I am very close to her and she shares most of her life details with me....sometimes i get told more than I want to know ...LOL but I love her dearly and try to be objective. She has been dating her fiancee for 2 years. He's 28. He was in a previous relationship for 4 years. They broke up and he started dating my daughter. 8 months into the relationship he has a one night stand with the ex girlfriend. Seriously I think it would have been easier if it was a one nighter with a stranger....but with the ex...all that emotional history. Anyway my daughter splits with him. Then about a month later when they are both still miserable, they talk and decide to give it another shot. Her friends are awful about it but I know they are trying to protect her. I really think he was so sorry and it was a huge misstep. They deceide to start dating again and then she's not sure she can really forgive him....he's very sorry but she keeps hanging it over his head. Finally I tell her that if she is willing to give him another chance then it is really not fair to continue punishing him. If she doesn't want to commit to another chance then be done with it but I really didn't feel it was fair to him to keep bringing it up and keep making him pay...so to speak. Anyway in the end I told her if she wants to take him back then she needs to take down the wall of hurt and accept him wholeheartedly and love deeply. The barriers of resentment will get her nowhere. On the other hand I told her if he FU%$$%#$% up like that again...then kiss his sorry ass good bye and don't look back. My point is we all make mistakes and emotions get in the way. If we really want to forgive and give it our best shot then we need to forgive wholeheartedly....love openly and deeply....don't keep a wall up and...do your best to really let the person in. If it all works out then that is a blessing and you know it's for real. I suspect that Damian has realized his own misstep but you have to realize that this has been a really emotional time for both of you. Kudos to him for seeing what a bright, beautiful woman you are and for wanting to take on the challenges that may come with a partner who has had breast cancer. Maybe this is the specail guy that going forward you will be able to rely on through thick and thin. I hope you do what is best for you and what is in your heart. We only get to go around this life once....It is better to lose at love than to have never have loved before.....cheesy cliche...I know ...but I like it.

 PS: I agree with MOB....if he screws this up he will have a gang of nasty BC warriors to contend with...lol.

Hugs to you my dear

Beth P

ChrisC433

Mom of Boys:  He prescribed Fosomax instead.  The nurse said that Zometa was prescribed for patients WITH bone mets.  I thought with loss of bone your insurance would pay for Zometa.  They are both biophosphates, so do they both have the same benefit or should I push for Zometa????

This is a new phase...more questions!

Mom_of_boys

Chris... Fosomax would certainly help since you've already been dx with some bone loss.  The Zometa is indeed prescribed for patients with bone mets, BUT it also is a preventative infusion for bone loss.  My onc said that (and I verified) that Zometa is showing some anti-cancer benefits as well.  Francine... any opinions?

pickle

Sorry about the long post above....I should have pm'd Rachel instead

ChrisC433

Not sure if this is the right place to ask, but....

I noticed some spotting this morning.  I had a complete hysterectomy 41/2 years ago.  Pap done last September...alittle over a year ago.  Any ideas???  Never happened before.  I wouldn't think that I would be at risk for any other female cancers since I don't have those organs anymore!

Thanks...

Chris

pickle

Hi Chris: I have no idea but I would get it checked. Are you on Tamoxifen?

ChrisC433

Pickle-No I am on Arimidex.

crusader1

Chris, I definitely agree with MOB..Nowadays Zometa is used for bone loss without Mets and there are even thoughts that it might prevent further cancer. Do ask the nurse again and maybe even check with the doctor. Yes I also realized that they are both biophosphates. What is interesing is that my older friend(79) takes Reclast which is  the same as Zometa but prescibed once a year just for the osteoporosis. I believe that if you have Mets you are given it much more frequently. For those like us ..no mets it is prescibed only twice a year.Sorry no clue on the staining. You should get it checked out.

Beth..We always enjoy reading your posts. Hopefully Rachel will feel a little more comfortable after reading it. No BC gang warfare hopefully.

Well I went to my oncologist for my three month checkup after taking Arimidex. All seemed fine with the CBC. But the technician had a very difficult time finding a vein. She tried one by the elbow( the crease) and hurt me but then gave up. Then she went to my hand and also had a very difficult time. She really hurt me but finally got enough blood. I talked to the nurse practioner and she said I should have asked for a chemo nurse. I guess I will the next time.

MOB and all..I have been taking at least 2000 units of Vitamin D daily and consistently since the summer. My Vitamin D level from the last time was very low. The nurse said to call her when they get the results and see if it is better. They feel your score should be about 50.

Hugs to all,

Francine

crusader1

Ladies,

I just came across this .Thought we might enjoy posting the places where we live.It's a map of the whole world and you put a pin where you live..

http://www.jamdweck.com/membermap.htm

Francine

sakura73

Thank you everyone for your support - Pickle, I feel honoured that you shared that story of your daughter. What you said about being ready to forgive and be wholeheartedly open to the other person is really true.

I'm so lucky to be part of this wonderful group.

Francine I winced in sympathy reading about your veins! It is never pleasant having blood drawn, let alone when they are digging around in your arm and hand like that!

Chris - yay for your son's football success!

Dawn have you had your results yet?

gymmom8

Francine - My last blood draw was very difficult as well.  I even have a port so my veins were not used for chemo.  They stuck me 3 times before finally going to my hand and drawing blood from there. 

My reconstruction date is set.  I will have my surgery on Dec 4th.  I am hoping they do everything at once. (Lat Dorsi Flap, lift (tweek) other breast, and port removal) so I may be uncomfortable for a little longer but at least it will be done.

Sakura - I am glad to hear that you are back with Damien.  If you are happy, that is what is important.  We've all learned that life throws curves at you so enjoy what you have while you have it.  I've always wanted to visit Australia so if he messes up, I'll join the warriors and come kick his ***!  Heck, maybe I'll come anyway to watch that football you were talking about. 

Chris - Congrats to your son and his teammates on their successful championship.   I really enjoy watching kids and their sports.  My daughter the gymnast begins her competition season next week.  It will be a growing year for her because of the more difficult skills she is learning but it will still be fun to watch all the girls compete.

Francine/MOB - I was told to only take 400 units of vitamin D daily.  I wonder why my dosage is so much lower than everyones.  I assume it depends on your counts when you start. I'll make sure they check it at my next blood draw.

Cyndi  

Anonymous

Sakura  I am so glad you are happy.  I suppose we have learned that life is too precious to sit idle and not take chances, nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Chris  Congrats on your son's football team.  That is such an awesome time to watch your kids compete in sports, definitely the best of my memories.

Beth  your daughter is so lucky to have you.  You are so insightful and able to be objective at the same time.

Thanks to all for cheering me on with my chemo treatments.  Unfortunately we are at a standstill, temporarily.  I have only had the one TX.  How to explain??  When I had my reconstruction surgery, they did a DIEP on the left and a muscle sparing free tram on the right.  They knew immediately that the tram side was not getting the blood flow they wanted and told me they would have to do some more work later.  So, I went to see the PS last week and he cut out the dead tissue so it could heal.  I now have a wedge shaped divot that my DH packs twice a day.  The PS said it should heal in about 4 weeks and we should be able to start chemo again in two weeks.  I'm not so sure about chemo that soon, but we'll see how it goes.    The saga continues eh?

ChrisC433

Deb...sending you the quick healing vibes........soak them up!  Thinking about you, take care!

pickle

Dawn: Thinking of you today. Sending good vibes for good BW results.

Chris: Congrats on your son's football. It's always so uplifting when our kids are doing well and enjoying life. Did you get your spotting checked?

Francine: I put a pin on the map. There is a lot of pins on there! Sorry to hear they had difficulty with the blood draw but very happy that your CBC was good.

Cyndi: Best of luck to your daughter in the new gym season. I used to love going to the competetions when my dtr was in Gymnastics....couldn't bear to watch the beam routines though! December 4th is just around the corner and then you will be done....yeah!

Deb: Yes, your saga continues. How did you do on your first round of chemo? I hope they can get you started again in 2 weeks. Three more rounds to go??? I am sending healing vibes, positive thoughts and warm wishes for quick healing.

Luv2sing: How are you and your DH doing? Any word on the next step for him. You are in my thoughts daily and sending hugs your way.

MOB: Will you be getting any of the effects of Hurricane/Tropical storm Ida? It seems so late in the season for a hurricane?

Kim40: Just checking in on you!!!

ChrisC433

Made an appointment with GYN for Thurs. am.  Thanks everyone!

crusader1

Hi All,

Well today my surgery saga began one year ago. I had my failed lumpectomy which led to a mastectomy and so on. Tomorrow is surgery number 7 on the same breast. I am optimistic that all will go home. I have Maj Yong today and then my DH will be taking me out to dinner. I must be at the hospital at 6 am. Looking forward to getting in and out early. The PS said I could be home by 11:00. Looking forward to having my third TE put in and no more infections.

Cindi..I had my Latflap surgery and the tweeking at the same time. The only pain there comes from the surgery. You will feel very tight. Glad you have gotten it scheduled as I know you want to put all this behind you.Re Vitamin D..The US governments daily requirement is still 400 units a day. Most( doctors) feel that is just not enough. I do agree that you chould either have your Vitamin D tested or ask to get your score. My oncologist feels mine should be about 50 as well as women who had BC. Inquire as this is a simple thing to improve one's health.

Deb- Sorry to hear about your setback. I had a hole in my breast last year when I also had necrosis of the skin then debridement. They gave me a VAC machine to promote healing. You may want to ask your PS about it. You could PM me if you want any more details on it.

Pickle You add so much to this board with all your kind sayings and with remembering all of our situations. It is truly a gift for our group to have hooked up with you.

LADIES- I do love the idea of all of us warriors going down under to support Sakura.

Hugs,

Francine

Dawnmrn1

Hi All!!!! Thanks for all of the Support!  Good news my tumor markers are in the basement to quote the onc.  My blood work is right where it should be!!! PHEW!!! I was scared to DEATH!!!! He thinks I look great, live each day like it was my last I could be hit by a truck,  and come back in 3 months. He recommended the CA, Vit D, Low fat diet and exercise!!! No zometa, or fosamax, tooo  out there, this is Dartmouth. Thankyou!!!

Deb!  Sorry to hear of the setback!!!

Francine!  Wishing you all of the best

Gymmom and Chris!  May the kids prevail!!!
!!!!!!!!

Luvtosing!  Hope you and the hubby are on the mend!

Pickle and MOm of Boys!  thanks for all of the kind words and support!   Love you all!  I don't know where I would be without this thread!!! Thanks, DAWN

Mom_of_boys

Cyndi... Good luck on your daughter's upcoming season!

Deb... WOW!  And another WOW!  I definitely need to talk to you soon.

pickle...  Usually no effect for us from hurricanes unless they are really bad.  I live in North Texas. 

Chris... I'm sure it is NOTHING, but please keep us posted.

Francine... You poor thing.  Wishing you SUCCESS and a speedy recovery.  Let us know how it goes.

And, Dawn... Thank God!!!!!!!  Woo hoo for you... what a relief I'm sure.  And, you get a three month reprieve from appointments.  I am sooooo happy for you.  Such wonderful news to end my day!

ChrisC433

Deb:  Congrats...did you hear that sigh of relief??  Great news...keep sharing that!

I got my BW done on Monday for my preadmission testing for carpal tunnel release.  I had Onc include orders for my BW for him (2 weeks early).  Waiting on results...hope my markers are in the basement too (and can't find an elevator or stairs!!)

Francine...hear come more healing vibes...hold onto something!!!!!

 Cyndi:  I think we look foward to a new season as much as our kids!  Good luck to your daughter.

pickle

Dawn: That's great news. So happy for you! Did your onc say how much Vit D?

Chris: Good luck tomorrow. Sending positive thought and warm wishes.

Francine: Wishing you a speedy recovery. Healing vibes are being sent. BTW what is maj yong?

Hugs to all

Beth P

crusader1

Hi Ladies,

My surgery went well ( reported at 6 and surgery 7:30). I was back home in my house by 11:00AM. Then my DH and I slept for two and a half hours.I really do not have any pain just some pulling and discomfort. I may take a Percoset this evening at bedtime. I must take a strong antibiotic for one week so I don't get an infection. No drains - hurrah..I can shower on Friday and will see the PS on Monday. He is young and real cute..He called late this afternoon to see how I was doing. I told him you did a good job.

Mah Jongg( I misspelled it before)) is a chinese tile game played by many women in America. On my most recent cruise we saw Chinese men playing it ..You can google it if you wish. I am sure in cities like Vancouver or Toronto with large Asian popualtions they play it.

Ladies- I know that after a mastectomy or SNP one can not use that arm any more. Thus we all have problems geeting blood drawn.The anesthesiologist asked why he could not draw blood from the other arm. He said he understood about getting IV's there but not having blood drawn.I will inquire on my next visit.

Oncologists office called as they have already ordered my next Zometa. I will go in a few weeks.

I was invited for tea tomorrow morning at the home of my 98 year old friend who died last week. Her daughter wants me to see the house before they disassemble it to sell. I think I will make it as the house is three blocks away.

Dawn- What terrific news.I can imagine how relieved you are..

Cindi and others-- I am just curious as to what exactly are markers. My tumor was totally removed and my chemo was prophylactic based on a recurrence of cancer other than in the breast five to ten years down the road spread by blood not nodes. My nodes were all clear. The ONCO looks at CBC and other tests. Next time I will ask about markers.

Stay strong..

Hugs ,

Francine

Mom_of_boys

Francine... Thanks for checking in.  We'll keep hoping and praying for a great recovery and results!

ccbaby

HEY GIRLS...IF ANYONE  HAS A FACEBOOK PAGE THAT ISN'T ALREADY MY FRIEND, PM ME..I WOULD LOVE TO ADD YOU!!

sakura73

Dawn - great news!!

NYDeb sorry to hear chemo is at a standstill.

Francine great to see you here so soon after surgery. Hope your recovery is swift and problem-free. I asked my onco about tumour markers after reading about them on this site. Like you my chemo was  prophylatic. He said tumour markers are enzymes in the blood (or something like that) and that in my case there was nothing to look for since they were confident any measurable level of cancer cells had been removed in surgery. Hope this helps.

pickle

Francine: You sound so chipper...yeah! I am so happy for you that the surgery went well and wow...they sent you home at the same time that they initially said. Punctual! I hope and pray that the antibiotics will be a success and I am sure you will sidestep any infection. I will google Mah Jonng for sure.

I was told after SNB that I couldn't have blood drawn, IV or blood pressure on that arm...let me know what your onc thinks.

What is Zometa for?

I hope you enjoy your tea tomorrow at your friend's house. That is so thoughtful of them to invite you. You are special for sure.

I too am curious about tumor markers.