Chemo Starting Sep 09
Comments
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Hi SOSisters....here's the link to the blog : Just copy it to your browser box above and it should take you right there....Feeling crappy just out of the gate...hoping a good nites sleep will help.....
http://septembersoutstandingsisters.blogspot.com/
Ronnie....start on the odd pages & I'm sure someone will be able to help ....but you can start anytime...Then you guys can coordinate the words somehow.... or yell cause next week I'll be feelin a whole lot better....
... Ok....Idea...we can all go trick or treating as a dozen eggs......the egg carton over our heads and then maybe we can come up with a song to sing everytime someone opens the lid
Chemobrain only let's me get that far....any ideas....oh and by the way...We will be wearing our CHEMOTARDS....Resting.....but reading....
Melinda
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Hello SOSisters....it was a manic Monday and rainy and cold here in NC. Glad to be home!
The web address for the blog is: http://Septembersoutstandingsisters.blogspot.com
Just type in the address and it should take you right there, then save it to your favorites!
RonnieKay - I want an Almond Joy! Are you having the constant runny nose and watery eyes? I know somebody posted that - I am and it's from the taxotere. I walk around with my pockets full of tissue and heaven forbid I forget and bend over! I have tissue boxes all over the place.
Neece - sorry you aren't feeling too good. We've all been thinking about you. I'm with you, I have #3 coming up and even tho I will then be half way through I still don't want to go!
Pamelajo - okay I'm going to hold you to those pictures next year! Glad you had such a good time! I know you must be anxious about Thursday, but it is going to be OKAY! All of us are sending positive thoughts your way.
Melinda - it was me about the song, The Story by Belinda Carlisle. Your Kraut Fest sounds like fun especially with family and friends. I am sure the pendant is going to be wonderful, we all can't wait to see it. I will be joining you on the couch, hope your side effects are minimal. I like your idea of the txt dates, I keep having to go back to see who is having what when. There was a time I could have remembered but.....
Susan - is your daughter going to college? Will she be in the band? May be a whole new band experience for you! I am still collecting addresses to do another batch of letters, I want someone to generously offer to fly us where ever and then pay for our rooms and food. If someone responds I can ask about a kitchen - or maybe we could all just sneak into the kitchen after they shut down for the night! I'm not much of a cook but I'm very good at eating.
Onty - be thinking of you tomorrow. Hope you have no side effects!
Catherine - it's Monday and txt week. We don't need any excuses for anything!
Vickilynn - I have found that if I don't remember it there is no way I'm going to switch pages and hae to retype all. I agree that this group is special. It just boggles my mind how we all found each other and how we have grown into a family!
To everyone else - I'm thinking of you. Take care. Thoughts and prayers are with you!
Jane
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Cookies make Tigger very happy!
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Hi all; I hope you don't mind if I join on.... I have just found this link to you. Reading what you have written helps me know I am not alone in all this. Lots of useful info and great reading....you all sound wonderful. I have such great family and friends but none of them have gone through this and it is hard to try and be positive all the time so that they feel better! :-)
Going for round three on Thursday. I keep trying to tell myself that this is all good...chemo is my friend to help me beat the cancer. Not sure it is working but hopefully my "friend" will go easier on me this time.
I am on FEC-D so this is the last time with FEC then switching for three rounds of D. Not sure what to expect with the D....afraid to look too far ahead.
Had a mastectomy in June and once the chemo is over I will be having radiation. Would love to hear what is recommended instead of radiation. I plan on being around for a long time so am trying everything the Dr's recommend but am always looking for a natural way to deal with all of this....everything helps!
It is already close to winter here in Nova Scotia, Canada so any sunshine from any source to help get through this is greatly appreciated. You guys are a great ray of light!
Good luck to you all and hopefully you won't mind me popping in every once in a while. My birthday was in September so I feel that I could be "doubly"a Sept. sister if you don't mind a late joiner!
Thanks again and best of luck to all having treatments this week!
Marilou
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I know if I type all your names and try to remember everything I wanted to say I will mess up, but here is what is floating around and staying there.
Jane-Thank you so much for writing those letters, I couldn't agree more, we have all bonded.You have tx tomorrow too right? I will be thinking of you in my chair.
Pamela- The leave sound fabulous. The colors here in Michigan have also burst. We are all with you Thursday-let us know what happens.
Vickilynn- (And Pamela, and RonnieKay and everyone else who mentioned my oatmeal) what can I say, the "goodness" of oatmeal and yogurt only disguised as a warm chocolate chip cookie with ice cream. I figure with all they drugs they pump in me whats a few chocolate chips? I hope you and hubby are well.
Ronnie Kay-I love your posts, and just like you I talk about "the girls" with family and coworkers. I hope you are well, do you get a nice bit of fall color there in Seattle? Oh and ooph is removal of the ovaries-the ling is crazy huh?
Catherine, Amy, Othy, and BarbT I am thinking of you too.
Toni-I miss you and hope you are well.
Susan- gosh you are a busy woman. I really admire your daughter for the accomplishment of band all 4 years. My daughter quit band and I still remember her last concert and feeling all teary because I knew I wouldn't watch her play again. I am glad you have your son to look forward to. I hope you are well too.
Melinda-The blog is gorgeous and I sent you all the info I think. Thank you again.I hope the se's aren't too hard on you.
Neece-I love the photo of you by the harbor. I hope you are seeing the end of the se's and feeling better.
Well tomorrow is TX number 2 and to all of you with TX tomorrow I will think of you. I saw my onc today and the headaches are from the Aloxi and should get better over the course of treatment-he said my body will stop overreacting. I said I would deal with the headaches as long as I kept my apatite. I also have a really cool yeast infection , so I started antibiotics for that too. For a girl who never took pills I have quadrupled that in no time.
Well I am off to do some dishes and make some no back cookies before I lose my taste for chocolate for the next week, and trade it in for craving for McIntosh apples and string cheese.
Much love and positive hugs to all my September Sisters.
Barbara
PS My onc said my hair should fall out about 72 hours after tomorrow, so I may have a photo for you this weekend.
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Welcome marilou! You have joined a great group of women. I hope you 'pop in' regularly! Can I ask what is your pic? It looks beautiful I love the colours.
Hope your tx's continue to go OK. I don't know the drugs you mentioned so can't offer any info on side effects. Possibly someone else on this thread is having the same ones?
Good luck to those having tx's this week. And to Pamela with your Dr appointment - once again you have such a 'kick butt' attitude.
I would like to help out with compiling our list of words but won't do much for another day or so I think so please let me know whoever makes a start and I will help out when I can.
love to all
Neece
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Whewwee Mama's, what a day! I've decided if I cannot get a straight answer about time keeping tomorrow at work, I'm going to look our "new" supervisor in the eye and tell him to do his own homework. He asked me to take over this responsibility along with all I already do, and I'm always up for a challenge, but the man changes his mind three to four times a day on how he wants things done.......then complains when it doesn't go one of the ways he thinks it should LOL. My boss just smiles and listens.....I seriously love that man. We joke we are going to run away and leave all the work to the sup.
Anyway, I'm glad someone brought up the runny nose thing. Mine drips like a faucet. I fixed supper tonight with toilet paper stuffed up my right nostril. And my eyes! I have this oily feeling ucky stuff everyday. Makes wearing my contacts a pain in the patootie. I'll be glad when thats over.....
I'm going to get my pre-doc blood work done in the a.m. I have to be at work at 6.........but I'm takin a couple hours off to give myself plenty of time to get poked. Not in the happy way either.
I'm sorry I didn't address everyone individually. Maybe tomorrow if I have time. Just wanted to touch base and tell you all you are in my heart........ sending happy thoughts and lots of jittery energy your way.
Welcome to Marilou! Sorry you got to be here, but happy to meet ya.
We have cookies LOL -
His SOSisters...
Welcome Marilou...What are chemo drugs you are taking...do you know by name? FEC-D...I'll have surgery next month then on to Radiation...This has been the recommended step after lumpectomy for changing my reoccurance from 25% to somewhere around 5%....To me the latter is where I want to be....apparently the rads are so focused on the tumor site, that it is much less invasive to the vital organs....which has been the problem in years past. What info have you come up with in the rads area....would you share your thoughts and knowledge....many of us are heading that way in the months to come...me in December and others soon after.
Jane- I can't find "the Story" by Belinda Carlisle...maybe under a diff name?? Just not coming up on my searches.....sorry Good luck today...easy tx w/low SE's......
Neece.... get with Ronnie K...If I remember correctly....together you can come up with something totally terrific! Can't wait to see!
Chat soon....nap time!
Melinda...
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Hey SOS
Today I'm feeling really good but the weather is damp and rainy. Just makes me feel like crawling under the covers and take a nap.
Melinda- Hope you are feeling better. Napping and rest is what the doctor orders. I love the idea of a dozen eggs for halloween. You are very creative.
BarbAnne- Good luck today. Keep us posted on how you are doing.
Jane- Keep writing those letters!!
Marilou- Welcome. Feel free to pop in anytime. Also welcome to the Thurs. chemo club. There are four us having tx this Thrus. It is my 3rd tx also. You can share with us how it goes (hopefully noneventful). Looking forward to hearing from you.
Hoping all my sisters are hanging in there.
THINK POSITIVE
chat with you soon
Catherine
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Hello SOS!
Hope all of you that had your tx last week are doing o.k.
Marilou - sorry you have to join our club, but we welcome you with open arms!
Thursday is the day for quite a few of us.
I had a great weekend. The So you think you can Dance show was alot of fun. It was really nice to get out. Sunday I went with my husband, brother in law and his fiance and had lunch down by the beach. It was a beautiful day in the low 80's and we really had a good time. I figured better enjoy myself while the going was good.
I saw a few of you mention the runny nose. I constantly have it. I thought it was allergies. I hope I am not being paranoid but I feel like I am coming down with a cold. My neighbor across the street stopped by the other day and told me she had just gotten over swine flu. She is an LPN - totally freaked me out! I did not even let her in the door just went outside and talked. She was over it but I was still paranoid. Has anyone checked with their doctors regarding the H1N1 shot?
Well, am at work right now will check back later this week.
Love to all,
Barb T
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Hello ladies-
Tx number 2 went off with out a hitch. Of course I will be peeing orange for the day (thank you AC) but it went well and fast and my counts are good. So now to figure out a good drug game plan for my Aloxi headache at the end of the week.
BarbT- Glad you had fun and wow does 80's sound nice. I couldn't agree more, people at work walk up to my desk and say "Oh I was sick, but I'm not contagious now." And I always say, "I don't see your medical degree so get the heck away from my desk." It is the three foot rule for me. And if they don't want to talk from three feet away they can go call or email me from their office. Good for you for staying safe!
Catherine- Oh so glad you are on the up. Sorry about the weather though-same here in Michigan.I will think of you Thursday.
Jane-I hope I remembered right and your TX was today, cause I thought of you, and the rest of the sisters. Hope you are well
I also hope everyone with TX this week does well!
Marilou-welcome, i too am sorry you had to join, but this is a great group.
Melinda-thank you for the email, I will get my account all set up this week. Hope you are resting and well. If you can eat something you love and nap-it is good for the soul.
Radiation-since I have already done my 35 treatments I guess I can shed a little light on it.Yes it is super focused. At least at the hospital I have my treatment done, and I am pretty sure it is fairly standard, they use these pillows (are not soft don't let the name fool you) to create a mold of where they want you to lay every day. Then they line you up, using a CT, to make sure the angle is perfect and preserve the safety of the organs. Then they apply little permanent tattoos, they look like a pen mark, in several spots. I have five. The one in my breast bone hurt like a you-know-what, if I had the forethought I would have taken a Tylenol before the appointment, but the pain is temporary. Then using those tattoos the techs line you up on the machine. So you go in, lay down, shift into the "pillow", mine was with one arm above the head. Then the techs turn on the lasers a push and pull you around until the beans hit those dots. They also use special measurements and make marks, with a Sharpie to line you up even more. Wear bras you don't mind getting ink on, or put Kleenexes in them. I had to use Kleenex because towards the middle my skin got really sensitive and the bra seam just agitated my skin.
Honestly the set up takes more time then the actual zapping. Also during "boosts", which are heavier doses on the specific site, they use a different machine, with a special attachment made for your site. They attach the extra piece on so the zapping is really tumor specific. Plus they draw a big circle on you with a paint pen for boosts, so really wear things you don't mind getting ink on
My four best pieces of advice during radiation are,
1) You can't where deodorant, so use baby cornstarch powder and carry some of the makeup applicator pads with you-they help with freshening up.
2) Drink water, drink water, and drink some more. Ice water is the first thing that crosses my lips when I wake up (heard that our bodies are dehydrated and really absorb the first thing they are given) and I drink it all day. I had more rave reviews on how my skin handle radiation, and I healed quicker too.
3) Get a little exercise-don't over due it, but a little helps combat the fatigue that comes with radiation.
4) Use a good lotion every night before bed. Regular Eucerin worked wonders for me.
Oh and I know I said 4 but what the heck:
5) They claimed it wasn't a side effect but I had a bit of a dry mouth at the start of radiation, so I found it helpful to carry around my favorite hard candy. It could have just been me, or the fact that they were radiating my lymph nodes too-who knows.
Well I hope that's helpful.
Thinking of you all-
Barbara
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THanks Barbara...that's the most helpful info I've come across! I;m copying and saving this on my One Note for later! When did you begin to notice the fatigue? How long into it?
Doing ok today been moving and keeping busy most of it...Got my LAST bee sting Neulasta shot today....Hooray! Tomorrow more fatigue and steroid jitters....but I got my ATI-VANNNNN! The most amazing drug of the century! It keeps me sleeping at nite...haven't used it during the day yet...but there may be a first! It is addicting does anyone know? I don't take enough....but just curious.
Hope your all doing ok....where are you Toni...haven't heard a peep from you....miss you! Stop in when you get a minute.
Wishing you all a warm and cozy sleep...no peeing to mess up your deep sleep (I get up 5 times a nite!) Too much information!
Melinda
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Hello SOSisters.... still rainy and gloomy in NC. Getting me ready for Thursday?
Marilou- welcome. Several of us will be sitting in the chair on Thursday. It's my 3rd also. We will be sending each other positive vibes! If the sun starts shining here in NC I will be happy to send you some! Eat something good tomorrow!
BarbAnne - Txt on Thursday. How are you doing? Any side effects yet? I so hope you don't get those awful headaches this time! I had those my first txt, I don't think I was drinking enough water. I will work on more letters this week, someone is going to respond! Thank you for sharing on radiation, what you posted sounds exactly what my doctor told me would happen when I start rads in January!
Toni, Vickilynn, Onty, Susan, RonnieKay, Amy, Mari - hope all of you are doing well, thinking of you!
Has anyone noticed the following are now MIA? Puffins, Flacracker, Karen, China Blue, Dogsaver, DomeGal? Hope all of you are doing good and just enjoying life and don't have time to post!
Neece - I hope you are having a wonderful side effect free day!
Pamelajo - glad I'm not the only one with the runny nose thing going on, and I have never had watery eyes. The joys of chemo! You need to get those people at work straightened out, can't believe you haven't already done that!
Melinda - sent you a PM with correct artist for song (chemotard moment). Hope you are having a nice nap and NO side effects!
Catherine - you and I are due some nice weather and hopefully it will be here for Thursday so that when we go for txt the sun will be shining and our txt will go off without a hitch! No side effects! Eat something good tomorrow!
Barb0323 - is it raining in Florida? Isn't amazing that so many of us will be doing chemo same day, probably same time. Glad you had a good time at SUTYCD and also at the beach. I wanna go to the beach! My cancer center is advising against the H1N1 if you are doing chemo. Maybe some of our other sisters have info? Eat something good tomorrow!
I apologize in advance if I forgot anyone! Thoughts and prayers with you!
Jane
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Hey Jane-sorry I got the wrong day-silly me. It is amazing that so many are in TX the same day.I hope the headaches don't come back but I have a plan of attack.
Melinda- the fatigue really built up, it was not an overnight thing, and some of the fatigue I didn't notice so much until I felt better and then I was like "wow I was really tired" Actually, for me, radiation fatigue wasn't even in the same ballpark as chemo fatigue, radiation fatigue would need to forward its mail to be in the same area as chemo fatigue.. The only thing I cannot speak to is some women, rare I hear, "flashback side effects" from chemo during radiation. So I suppose the fatigue could be exacerbated by having had chemo and then rads. I always knew when I had hit a point of no return because a nap was imperative.
Also I have read about some women, on these boards, who really hated radiation. I got the impression they hadn't done chemo, and that laying on a table with their chest out was humiliating, their word not mine. Frankly, I have had so many people poking and prodding my chest it is a mute point for me.
Anyway, if you guys have any questions please feel free to ask.
Jane- also there is a thread about the H1N1 shot on the boards here, maybe type H1N1 in search. I know the two years I got the seasonal flu shot both winters I came down with strep. I posted that in that thread and someone PM'd me saying the same happened to her. So I never get the seasonal flu-I don't want to run the risk of strep. Anyway my onc's office said many people over 35 have an immunity to the H1N1 because they have come in contact with a similar strain as kids. I have noticed a few news outlets saying that too, so maybe it has some truth to it.
Well Melinda congrats on the last Nulesta!
Feeling good tonight, knock on wood, better than the night of my first TX.
Take Care ladies I am keeping you in my thoughts
Barbara
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Hello by beautiful sisters,
I just finished a nice post and then lost it!
I'll try again, but not promising anything special. We are having our earliest snow day ever. I told my kids no way last night, and then woke up to the phone system telling me no school. It is coming down fast and furious. I had already called in sick for the day, which is rare for me to do, but I don't feel good. Whine!!!! I have a cough and nasal congestion, no fever though. Not sure if it is just a cold or chemo se's. All of you ladies with tx this week, you are in my thoughts and I am sending you positive vibes! I have had more fatigue since tx 3 last week. So my best advice is take a nap, and take it easy.
My chemo tired, sick, snow bound brain is too tired to post individually today, but welcome to Marilou (sure I spelled that wrong, sorry), and know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. If I feel better later I'll bake you cookies, (it would be such a waste of a good snow day to not bake something, maybe I can make the kids do it). I love you all so much!
Hugs,
Susan
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I had my last A/C yesterday. Yahoo! The nurse and doctor says Taxol is a lot easier to tolerate.
I am so glad someone mentioned the runny nose and eyes. I carry a tissue all the time.
I asked my onc about the H1N1 flu shot (I got the general flu shot before chemo) and he said that I should get it soon.
BarbaraAnne41 - Thanks for the low down on radiation. I was so curious.
DenverDiva - Enjoy the snow and snuggle up with your favorite blanket. We love baking on snow days and staying our pj's all day. We still have a while for all that though. In Westchester NY, the leaves are just starting to fall and the colors are brilliant. We did have some flurries last week which startled everyone.
Love to all
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My onc said "yes" to seasonal flu shot and "no" to H1N1.
She isn't a fan.
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Oh! I forgot! I also wanted to say thank you for the radiation info. It will be here before you know it.
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You know what I still haven't lost my hair. I shaved it before chemo started in anticipation. My onc assured me it would happen, but guess what. I still have a lot of head stubble. I still have eye brows. I do admit to losing hair down south and my eyelashes have thinned quite a bit and don't need to shave my legs. My onc, now says I might see hair growth while on Taxol. Will it continue to grow through radiation?
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Hello my beauiful SOSisters, I have been keeping myself busy with my sisters while they are still here. I been going to PT cause my range of motion is not good. Also I got a rash on both sides of my sides. my Ono and PS doen'st know what it is no fever. They said keep a eye out on it and as long as no fever i am ok?!?! I been using hdrocrotome. It has clear up a little. I am going for my 3rd treatment this Thrusday. Well everyone whose getting their chemo this week it is just one step closer to being done!! My Prayers and thoughts are with you all!!
Love to all!!! -
Hey Chinablue and flacracker, so good to hear from you! Glad you are okay, and sorry about the se's! I am so snuggled up right now they may never dig me out. I forgot in my earlier post, my onc said no to H1N1, but gave me the seasonal flu shot. She said anyone born before 1974 should have some immunity from childhood, and not get H1N1 bad. She is more worried about seasonal flu. I'd like to get both shots for my kids though so they are safe.
Happy snow day! You should see how much there already is, and it is still coming down!
Love,
Susan
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Hello SOS
I had some cramping in my stomach yesterday out of the blue. I really bothered me. I had to sit with the heating pad on last night and that helped alittle. Today still there but not as bad.
Jane- The weather today is worse than yesterday in NJ. Cold, damp and rainy. It is supposed to clear for tomorrow. Your chemo is tomorrow or maybe because there are so many of us I think everyone is tomorrow?
Barbara- It is great to hear you are feeling good. If you have the energy keeping busy is the way to go.
Flacracker- I will be thinking of you while I'm in the chair tomorrw. Hope all goes well.
ChinaBlue- Congrats on your last A/C. I lost my hair everywhere and some eyelashes too. Hoping to hold on to what is left.
Susan- WOW a snow day already. I sure the kids are thrilled. Sorry you are not feeling well. Just rest and take a nap. Hopefully that will have you feeling better
Well I will post sometime after my tx probably not until Fri or Sat.
THINK POSITIVE
chat with you soon
Catherine
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Good morning Sisters (Even though it's 9:30 a.m. here - it's this afternoon for a lot of you and tomorrow for Neece! Just thinking about it can really mess with your chemotardedness)
Thank you for your prayers and thoughts for DH and me. The stone was blasted well last week, but the stent was so painful for him. He finally had that removed yesterday and without going into details, you can imagine how they had to pull out this tube which went from his bladder up to his kidney and how much pain he was in because they only gave him a shot to numb his "locals". He was so miserable yesterday afternoon, but this morning is SO much better. He's now on antibiotics to prevent infection or take care of one that was there, for 5 days and should then feel like a new man.
This is my "free" week before starting with Taxol next Tues. and I'm enjoying almost tasting food and feeling a bit better. I have a lot of plans in my head (to go shopping or out to lunch with a friend or clean everything in sight) but the reality is I haven't the energy.
Have a great "Before Tx Day" to many of you. I guess we're all either "Before TX"' or "After TX" --- You're all in my prayers, whichever you are!
Vickilynn
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Your welcome to everyone about the radiation. If I think of anything else I will post it.
Catherine-sorry about the stomach-was in stomach or ovaries? Some of the ladies here complained of ovary aches. I think, at least my onc says, the ovaries start to shut down through chemo so that could be a cause. Anyway hope you are feeling better.
Susan- Snow day-wow, I saw that on CNN while waiting for my Nulesta shot this morning. Well gosh enjoy it and nap some.
Chinablue- congrats on the end of A/C. Radiation shouldn't bother your hair, but I have heard of a few women having what I call "flashback side effects" of chemo and their hair either thins a bit or doesn't grow as fast, but I hear that doesn't happen often. The lady I was in the radiation room with had just finished 4 A/C and 9Taxol, she didn't finish the last three due to neuropathy. Anyway her hair was growing back just fine. She did have a whole Herceptin regimen to go though, and I don't know how that effects bodies, since I don't need it.
Flacracker-sorry about the SE's hope you are feeling better soon.
Amy- my onc said the same thing, but i still won't get the seasonal since my strep issue.
Still feeling pretty good. Craving String Cheese and Mac apples is back in full swing. My hubby took a tug on my hair this afternoon and sure enough a chunk came out, just like butter. So maybe by this weekend I will have my photo.
Thank goodness for the Ativan. I'm with you Melinda, and I don't think it is addictive, I am a sleeper, can fall asleep anywhere anytime, but last night I don't think I would have without the help. So thank goodness.
Take Care sisters-thinking of you
Barbara
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Hello to all and thanks so much for the warm welcome! I LOVE cookies!!!
Just came back from having my blood work done and I feel like I am fighting a flu or cold and it seems that my white blood cells agree. Tomorrow supposedly is chemo but I have to try again in the AM with the blood work and if no better than it won't happen. Crazy...you would think that would be a relief but really I just want to get it all over with so keeping my fingers crossed.
My Onc also suggests getting both flu shots sooner rather than later.
Melinda: I have a friend who had radiation without chemo and she sailed through with flying colors. Other than a small amount of fatigue she was great. I am pretty high risk....64% chance of recurrence and the chemo is taking off 24%. Radiation will give me another 10% so will definitely go for it. If I didn't try everything that I could and it came back I would always be second guessing myself. Another friend had chemo and then radiation and while she did find it tiring she also said it was nothing compared to chemo so go for it. The biggest downer for me regarding radiation is that I was planning on having an implant when all this was over but it seems that the plastic surgeons will not/do not recommend one if you have had a mastectomy and radiation. I am not interested in having a flap so I may be stuck with a falsie for a while. Oh well there are benefits to having small boobs :-)
Neece: My pic...I was in San Fransciso in April...before all this began. There is an area there that is famous for it's wall murals done by street artists. They are pretty amazing but there was one that was on a "safe house " for woman that just blew my socks off. It was all different pictures of women helping women....women through time...Mother earth, etc. This one part of the pic that I am using makes me think of mother earth holding up her hands and helping/sheltering/empowering the woman of the world. I thought it was appropriate under the circumstances. I wish there was a way I could show you the picture of the entire wall....very impressive and inspiring.
My treatment is different from you all I think. FEC-D: 5-Fluorouracil, Epirubicin & cyclophosphamide for the first 3 sessions and the last three are Taxotere (Docetaxel). Apparently they have different side effects and some women do well with the first three and not so well with the last or vice versa. Guess I will find out soon enough but if anyone knows anything about Taxotere....let me know....I think.
I do try to walk every single day and tons and tons of water. Like Pamela the more I do the better I feel but it is very very hard to do things those first few days after chemo.
Good luck to everyone going for tx tomorrow or any other day for that matter. Let's show the world just how strong we are!!!! Hang in there!!!
Cheers, Marilou
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Dear SOS Sisters,
Still have a few minutes before I leave work and just had to take a few minutes to say hello!
Thanks for all the info. about flu shots. I have an appointment with my doctor before chemo tomorrow and want to get the go ahead from him before I get regular flu shot.
Well, here in Florida it is going to be almost 90 tomorrow and to think that some of you already have snow. I like warm weather but this is almost November!
Three of the people in our Tampa office stopped by and brought me flowers, and decorated our area in pink. They are honoring myself and another gal in our Tampa office by having a "pink" halloween. Thought it was kind of touching.
The CEO's assistant always stops by the day before chemo and brings me a little something. This time she brought me "The Little Pink Ribbon Book". Not sure if any of you have ever seen it but it has lots of inspiration, support and hope. Put out by www.runningpress.com
Vickilynn - glad your husband is doing better. My younger sister went through that several years ago.
Well, time to head on home. Coming in for a few hours in the a.m. and then off to chemo. Best of luck to everyone else going through it tomorrow and the rest of the week.
Love to all,
Barb T
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Hi SOS Sisters:
I confess, it has been over a month since I posted on this site. So sorry. I finished the rounds of A/C two weeks ago and had my first treatment of Taxol TODAY. It was a longer drip, about 4 hours. The premed they placed benadryl and atacant into my system and totally wiped me out. I slept for 2 hours at home. Still on decodron and had to take 5 pills at midnight and 5 in the morning, then they had that in my premeds. I should be wired tonight. GO PHILLIES!! Sorry, had to do that.
I got my regular flu shot on the off week of chemo. I am waiting from my primary dr. to get the swine flu shot, not the nasal. I was told that would not be smart for my system. I know it's hard, but stay away from the crowds. It's going around nationwide. Good luck to you all. Think positive and I'll try to be better at posting on the site.
Vicki
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Hello SOSisters.... the sun was shining today and it was 81! I am taking this as an omen for txt #3 tomorrow. I am not going to post tonight, will have plenty of time tomorrow to hopefully say hello to everyone individually.
I will be thinking of all my Thursday txt and dr. appt. sisters! We are going to do great!
To everyone else, will speak with you tomorrow am!
Thoughts & prayers are with you.
Jane
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Beautiful Sisters,
The snow is just not stopping. They already announced that tomorrow is a snow day too. My kids are very happy! What they don't realize is that they will have make-up days tacked on in the Spring. I tried to explain it but why spoil the fun for now. My dog, (a huge male collie) thinks the snow is great, but he is chest deep and has to "plow" through. I took all of your advice and napped a lot today. I felt good enough to bake some pumpkin bread, I'll save some for all of you, and made dinner. Now I am wiped out again, and about ready to go to bed.
Marilou, you could post pictures on our blog. If you scroll back a ways there are directions on how to get there. I of course haven't figured it out myself yet, but that is totally my plan for tomorrow. I am on T/C which is Taxotere and Cytoxin. The Taxotere isn't great. I think it has more se's than the C. I haven't been plagued with too much, but I have had intestinal issues, and neuropathy, especially in my fingers. At this point, a week out from tx 3, my nail beds are sore all of the time, and I have numbness from time to time. It should go away after treatment so typing won't always be a challenge. I hope for the best for you, and you are right to throw everything at the stupid cancer!
Catherine, I have been having painful cramping for several weeks. It is intestinal, and I just have to get to the bathroom as quick as possible. I don't have loose stools, just tons of gas and pressure and then a normal stool. I have also been having a lot of ovarian pain, and I started my period last week the day before my tx, it was very heavy, but only lasted for 5 days and now I am back to the ovarian pain. My Dr. said that it wasn't uncommon during chemo, because it does have an effect on the ovaries. She said I most likely won't go into menopause any time soon though. Sorry for the TMI.
Hey vdlay, it is good to hear from you. I am glad you are done with A/C, and are on to the next thing.
Vickilynn, I hope DH is well, and you are enjoying the peace of the week. Naps are good, and maybe you will feel like going out tomorrow, or not...just enjoy whatever you are doing.
I know I will mess up if I try to name everyone who is getting tx tomorrow, so I will just wish you all well. I will be here in my snowbound state, and I will just be praying for you and sending good vibes to all of you! You'll know that the vibe is coming from me if you feel a cool breeze and smell chocolate chip pumpkin bread. Okay, I guess I should save the scent for a time when it won't make you nauseas. Just watch for the cool breeze.
Love you all,
Susan
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Good Wednesday Evening (ok..I can say that because I just had a 2 hour nap & watched the Phillies beat the Yankees!). Sending warm hugs for all going to treatment & seeing doctors tomorrow....and hoping for great rest for those who already battled the enemy this week!!! Just to show solidarity (and a busy Friday!) I changed herceptin from Friday to Thursday so I'll be in the chair next to all of you tomorrow
MELINDA: I'm on the job, coach! Started the odd-numbered pages for our favorite SOS ism words and phrases
NEECE: If you'd like to take the even-numbered pages, that'd be great. Then, we can PM each other (do I sound like I know what I'm talking about!) and compare...it's great fun!MELINDA: Your last neulasta..can hardly wait to say that next week! BARBANNE gave great info for radiation. From my radiation experience, which was brachytherapy, I didn't experience any fatigue & had no hair loss or really, any other type of side effect. I don't know if this is because my system was still strong as I had that before chemo. Taxotere caused radiation recall after my first chemo tx...stingy boobie...but that probably won't happen with radiation being afterwards. All I can say from my experience is: I think you've done the very hardest part! MARILOU & others: Just wondering....the people I know that have had mastectomies have not had radiation. Is it all dependent on tumor size, makeup, etc???? MARILOU: My cocktail is taxotere, cytoxan and herceptin and the only thing I experienced was burning boob (explained above) with the taxotere. My onc nurse said she was administering my first tx very slowly so that there was less chance of a reaction and it seemed to work for me. SO, I'd just ask your nurse to take it nice and slow when you get to taxotere.
JANE: Thank you for letter writing...I just think it's wonderful! Sounds like Kleenex should be a big Susan Komen sponsor, due to chemo nose, don't you think??? THEY should have pink tissue boxes...hey...maybe that's something we could look into!!! A money-making suggestion????
BARBT: Oh how I would love 80-90 degrees! Fall is beautiful here, yep, lots of gorgeous leaves turning...but I am such a warm weather person. SUSAN: SNOW!!!! You should see how crazy this place is when it snows...the mayor actually lost his bid for re-election because he botched our severe snow storm last year. Basically, the only area that got sanded was his neighborhood
VICKILYNN: Poor hubby!! This has been quite a journey for him, hasn't it. We're pretty strong ladies & I still bet most of us went ICK...thinking about what he had to go through! It's on to healing now & hope each day brings less memories of what his pain had been! How often are you going to have Taxol? I'm counting down each day, to my last tx next Friday!!! I'll still have herceptin every 3 weeks but oh my, that's so easy.
SUSAN: I thought I was having hot flashes, but it only happened a couple of times. My onc said that the full force of menopause will start after chemo, when I go on the hormone inhibitor. I'm older than you but still haven't gone through "the change" (don't like that word), so it will probably be mild for me but still eventful, she said!
I'm getting my regular flu shot tomorrow, before herceptin. I had my first flu shot last year, argued like crazy with my gp...but it was the first year without the flu so I'm ready for it! My center isn't giving H1N1, due to it being a live virus and there are too many transplant patients there so my onc isn't giving it to me. Since I'm not in the workplace now, I think she thinks I can monitor the people I'm around a little easier. It totally ticks me off that people are still not considerate of others...especially people whose immune systems are compromised...and spread germs around so GOOD JOB...telling them to take their germs away!!!
OH...whoever is peeing yellow...drink more water! I know it's hard but my rad onc nurse said if it's yellow at all...you need more H20. So, I've literally shreeked a few times when I've seen it yellow and my hubby comes running! Especially now, when water tastes like I'm drinking straight from the ocean, I hate it. All those sugary drinks, gatorade & vitamin water, along with ginger tea, are about all I can handle. Sorry to nag!
Everybody...love you....and please don't beat yourself up for not posting dear sisters, it's important to get through this as best you can....we all know our hearts are connected. Blessings for rest and healing the rest of this week. Sleep tight!
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