Chemo Starting Sep 09
Comments
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Holly, I agree with everyone that you should contact your Doc about the pains. My Onc told me that it is best to stay ahead of the pain because once it takes hold it can be harder to control. I'm midweek after my 2nd Taxol TX (weekly, but no Nuelastra) and have only very minor achiness and no numbness. My Onc told me to take a Claritin everyday...so that may be helping. I'm also doing the B vitamins daily to ward off neuropathy. I see that some of you are taking Aleve. My Onc said no to Aleve...a big disappointment to me because in most situations I find it best for muscle and body aches. Oh well...Tylenol for me.
RonnieKay, I read somewhere that sometimes the most emotionally difficult time of BC treatment is when you are done. Perhaps there is something comforting about being seen by doctors all the time and the suppotive chemo nurses and concerned friends/family...and then, we are on our own. I think there is a discussion board on this website for people who are "getting back to normal".
After 14 weeks of chemo my blood counts, according to my Onc, are "fantastic". Lucky me! I know that Nuelastra is our friend, but does anyone remember those TV commercials for it...where everyone had hair and looked so strong and healthy and tan? HA! If they were truthful they'd have shown pale hairless people lying on the sofa groaning!
Patty
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Holly- I am sorry you are in such pain and that you had to have the Nulesta shot-did they say if it would be every time? Hope you are feeling better.
Patty-Your welcome for the info on radiation. Lotion and water, I can't stress drinking a lot of cool water during radiation, it really kept my skin healthy. Thank you for the Taxol updates, I am also a Tylenol only girl, and it seems to work a lot better if I stay a head of it-just like you said.
Jane Thanks for rooting me on, yes tomorrow is the last AC then I will start 12 weeks of Taxol December 15th. I hope you are feeling well, you sound good in your posts!
Ronnie Kay- I love your posts, and you do win longest post award. I too have also read about some women who go through a "depressed" phase after chemo, and even when they finish radiation and Tamoxifen, sort of like the war being over. Sometimes the battle is the "easier" (if that is even a good word) part because we are in active fighting mode. Anyway- I am with you the day I finish my last Taxol (March?) I am going to go around and tell everyone who will listen!!
Neece-I am so glad you got the cold front. I know when it gets hot here in Michigan people always clamor for a cold front. I am super glad for you it is cooling off, and a rain always helps wash thing clean doesn't it?
I am sure I am forgetting some people, but I am at work finishing up before I go see my doc and have some pre-chemo blood work, and don't want to loose my post. But I am thinking of you all and appreciate all your stories, and kind words.
I am still struggling with the idea that I am going to get back in that chair tomorrow, after last time's se's, I know I can do it but somewhere in my brain it is asking me why. I know only you ladies know what I mean.
Much love and many warm hugs
Barbara
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I had a severe reaction to Taxol within first 5 minutes. Doc switched me to Abraxane.
Has anyone continued on ECOG 5103 study while on Abraxane? -
Hi Turkey Girls....
Hope you are all gathering a few tastebuds up for Thanksgiving dinner....I know someone already had theirs, but can't remember who posted it....you are soooo smart for planning it early...what a great idea. I am still building energy and mostly feel good these days....I do start to feel energy drain by 5 though I make it to about 9 before I go to sleep...seems like just sitting down I feel a little more energy. Good news from my surgeon....margins are CLEAR! woohoo! and my tumor shrunk to 1.5cm from a whopping 5cm....a tough battle, but it is the news I was praying for. All is healing well and I feel a little zing here and there if I push the limits. So I try to keep it to a minimum, but there seems to be so much I am behind on and I want to get everything in and done....not sure why I'm in such a hurry....I have gained 5 pounds in 4 weeks....bah humbug....I keep eating like when I was getting chemo....keeping my stomach full...it still seems to have a lingering yuck feeling when it's empty. I just need to fill it with fruit and veggies I guess...no more pasta and potatoes. I haven't kept up with exercising....I will start playing tennis next week 2-3 times each week. It should help balance my weight. Wishing you all a wonderful Thanksgiving...I am thankful for each of you. Thank you for walking with me through this journey....thank you for making each day a better day...when it didn't seem like it....
Warm hugs,
Melinda
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Melinda - Great news on your tumor!!! What a great Thanksgiving blessing!
Onty - Sorry you had a reaction to the Taxol, but glad they are switching you.
Barbara - Climbing back into that chair gets tougher each time, doesn't it?
Jane - Congrats on your anniversary!
RonnieKay and Melinda - thanks for sharing your "after chemo" thoughts with us. It helps to be prepared. It's interesting that the one thing that identified me as a chemo patient (the bald head) at the beginning was something so hard to take, but now is more of a badge to display.
To All: I sure don't like the SEs with Taxotere. I ended up visiting the ER Sunday morning about 3 am when I vomitted up some blood. Pretty scary. But the dr. put some compazine through my port and told me that stomach linings can become irritated from chemo and cause that. I finally got a call back from the nurse at the cancer center as I also had my nose bleeding (mildly) all morning. She didn't seem too concerned... said that sometimes losing the nasal hairs can cause that. Sometimes I get a bit frustrated. They give you a list of reasons to contact them - like bleeding being an important one - and then they kind of brush it off. SIGH
Also had some sad news today. My puppy Kemo, has been staying with my kids and grandkids until I get through this chemo... she evidently fell last night and broke her neck and I'm sad to say she died. It was so hard to hear, partly because she was a symbol of getting through chemo. My grandkids stopped by today to give Gramma a hug and 8 year-old Kaymarie said she cried all morning. 9-year old Andrew said, "What shall we do about Kemocares? She was such an encouragement to people with cancer." I love my grandkids - THEY are such an encouragement to this Gramma with cancer.
Love to you all.
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Oh darling vickilynn, I am sending you a heartfelt hug through the internet.
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Vicki, I am so sorry to hear about your puppy. Someone in Heaven must've needed a cute lil darlin pup.....and now they have one
I know it doesn't help, but that is always how I look at it when one of my beloved pets pass away.Well ladies, it's official. Hair growing is hard freakin work! I'm sick sick sick of the scarves, and if I just had enough nerve, I'd go au natural. I don't have the guts. My hair is about 1/2 an inch long but very sparse. AND the amount of white is detestable. Ok, as if having bc isn't enough, then you get the second kick in the gut with chemo......THEN, just to make sure you are down and out, you lose your hair, your tastebuds, your boobs (sometimes), and you get lymphedema. Ok.....I handled all that with the grace of a two legged dog, but now........now on top of all that, I have hair coming in that is white. Not your average greys ladies, nooooooooo shiny white. AND SPRINGY CURLY!!!!
I haven't shaved since my hair started growing everywhere else. I'm like a wooki (makes wooki noises). It's starting to get on my nerves....the leg hair. Stubbles make it hard to sleep, but I'm being stubborn.
I made dinner for the guys at work last week. I baked a ham and made chocolate cream pie, pumpkin pie and apple pie. It was a pitch in, thankfully. 20 men eat ALOT. I'm taking the tree to work this week to put it up so we can all get in the holiday spirit.
Katie is home this week from college. I didn't realize how much I missed her. She's a nut, much like me, much to my ex husbands dismay LOL which makes it all the better. Gotta twist that knife just a little when I can. He's an ass, but what ex isn't?
I just want to say I am so proud of all you wonderful, fighting, spunky, tough as nails, chemotarded but brilliant, fantastic, beautiful women. You all are so very important to me and I'm glad this journey is winding down for so many of you. ON TO NORMAL ladies!!! Oh how I missed my mundane life. No letting the drool of remorse hit the pillow of regret for us, oh noooo, we are WARRIORS!!! YARRRGGGG, cough sputter cough....
Take care girls and keep your chins up (if I don't lose some weight soon, I'm going to have to use both hands to hold mine up). I had to buy new underwear! That's soooooo bad.
Love you all........kisses and hugs
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Onty- I am so sorry about your reaction, I hope it goes better on the new drug. Amd someone here has some info on it I don't sorry. Keep us posted though.
VickiLynn-I am sending you and the grandkids hugs about Kemo, gosh that is soo sad and I am so sorry. I am also sorry about your se's, it is frustrating when they tell you to call, and then apparently nothing seems like a big deal. I always wonder what is a big enough deal? And yes getting in the chair each time does get harder. I really hope you and your family are all doing better.
Melinda- Congrats that is a crazy amount of shrinkage and clear margins to boot --woo hoo!! I hope you are able to get through your big Thanksgiving in style with lots of happiness and warm feelings.
Pamela-I just love you girl, gosh you are funny!! I wondered if the curly hair rumor was true. Will you color it, when it is long enough? Maybe it will change color as you cute it and it grows more. I know that under ware thing-OH man,
Love an hugs
Barbara
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Vickilynn, so sorry to hear about Kemo the puppy. So sad!
Pamelajo, thanks for the smile your posts always give me. And hey...speaking as someone who is still waiting for ANY sign of activity on my head...take the white stuff! I'd take just about anything right now (although I may live to regret that statement!)
Melinda, hooray for shrinking tumors!
Onty, sorry to hear about your bad reaction to Taxol. Might be a blessing in disguise, I've read that Abraxane has fewest side effects of all the taxanes.
Patty
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Good evening everyone.
VickiLynn - So sorry for the loss of your loyal friend. I hope all the wonderful memories you've shared with Kemo will help you through this sad time. I sympathize with you regarding when you call. They give you a list of things to call them immediately, but sometimes when you do call, they act like you are inconveniencing them. Gosh, I am sorry to hear about your SEs. I hope you feel better soon.
Melinda - Congratulations on your tumor shrinkage! It is good to hear that the chemo is doing what it supposed to do. I will use your story as inspiration to get into the chair without fuss next time. Probably not, but I can pray.
Onty - That must have been scary to have a severe reaction after 5 minutes. Good luck with the new treatment.
Pamela - You crack me up; thank you, I really needed the laugh today. I am waiting for my hair to come back soon. That was the one thing I was looking forward to, the curly hair. My hair is straight, board straight. I can spend hours curling it and 10 minutes outside and it goes straight. If it does not come in curly, I am going to be really mad. Let me re-phrase, I want BLACK curly hair. I'm happy that your daughter is home with you this week. I am amazed that you had the energy to fix dinner for that many guys.
Thank you all for the advice of calling my doctor. I did call the cancer center and spoke with my onc. nurse and she took my info and said she will talk with the doc. She called back and told me to take 2 Advils every 4 hours. I told her that I could not take Advil as it causes upset stomach and sometimes I break out in hives. The nurse practitioner called and told me she called in a prescription for Tramadol. While I was out getting the prescrip. I thought I'll run errands to get supplies since my sister is coming and then stopped for chinese for late lunch. I want to thank you guys for all the advice; in my earlier posts, I talked about my fear of going out in public, but you guys helped alleviate some of it and I was able to go out today without too much anxiety. I had hand sanitizer and used it often.
This Thanksgiving I am thankful that I came across this forum. You guys have been a source of inspiration, comfort and friendship during this difficult journey. THANK YOU.
Love, Holly
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Oh you beautiful dolls! I love you all so much!
I can't believe it is already Thanksgiving. I hope everyone has a wonderful, peaceful day!
Holly, I am so glad that you got some answers and some medicine. I know it is risky to go out in public, but I just can't not. My life situation is very busy and I just don't want to stop going. I wash my hands tons, and use hand sanitizer. I have had a mild cold, but other than that I seem to be okay. We are all different, but for me being out with people is good. I'm glad you were able to be out for a little bit today. I hope you feel fit as a fiddle soon.
Patty, I hope all is well with you.
Barbara, how are you dear? I hope you are doing well, I know it is hard to get into that chair, but you are a warrior, and I know you will be great. Good luck, and I hope your Thanksgiving is very peaceful.
Pamela, your posts are always so wonderful. Thank you for your inspiration. I am making pies for Thanksgiving. There are only 9 of us for dinner, just our family, and our dear friends so I only get to make a pecan and a pumpkin. I would love to cut lose and make a few more, but I am not tempting myself. I started this whole process overweight, and I am working hard to get that down. For me I feel it is one thing I can do to be healthy. I love to cook and bake, so I need to find new people to "bless" that with, or I need to control myself for a while. I guess I can always make virtual pies for you all. What flavor would you like? I am glad you are getting to enjoy your daughter being home. Mine will be home tomorrow. I'm very excited to have her home for a little while. Oh, and I also have white fuzz coming in. I read on another thread that this happens sometimes, but that it changes and gets more normal after a while. I hope so 'cuz I look like a little old man right now.
Vicky, (((((((Hugs))))))), I am so sorry about little Kemo. I am sure that the grandkids are taking it hard. They love you so much and giving you Kemo was a way that they could help take care of you. I agree with Pamela, she is keeping someone company in heaven now. I hate to call the dr's office. I always feel blown off. I hope you have no more bloody noses, and that you just feel better and better.
Melinda, HOORAY!!!!!!!! I am so happy for clean margins and smaller tumors!!!! Way to go sister, I am sure it is all an easier path from here. You are my hero, 50 people for Thanksgiving. That sounds like so much fun. Take care.
Onyt, I am sorry you had such a scary experience. I am glad they changed your tx. Sorry I don't have any info on your study. I hope it all turns out well.
Chinablue, I hope you are doing well.
RonniKay, I loved your long post! You can really write. I have also had some days of extreme emotion since I finished chemo. One night I had a night sweat, and couldn't get back to sleep. I was awake for 3 1/2 hours, just got back to sleep, and DH woke me up to ask me a question before he left for work. After he left I just bawled for a half hour. No reason other than exhaustion. I think our bodies have just done so much, we just have to let the emotions catch up. I hope you have a very special and wonderful Thanksgiving.
Neece, glad that it has cooled off a bit. Here in Colorado, we often have wild fires when the weather is hot. I hope it all calms down and that you are safe. I know you still have a ways to go before you are through, but I also know you are getting closer. I am so glad that you are still going strong. Big hugs from over the ocean.
Jane, I hope you are doing well. I would like to say more to you but I will lose my post if I go back to check your last post, so I will just have to say Happy Thanksgiving.
Catherine, I also can't go back far enough to check on you, but I hope you are feeling positive. Good luck this week.
I know I didn't post to everyone, but know that I love you all, and you are all in my thoughts. I am thankful for your friendship and your motivation.
Sweet dreams,
Susan
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Anybody watching Dancing With the Stars...Maya better win or I'll cry!
ONTY: Thank goodness those nurses were watching you carefully...must have been very frightening to have the reaction. I don't know anything about Abraxane but hope, as Patty says, that the side effects are gentle. Will you have the same number of treatments as the Taxol? Hope you're feeling good very soon!
PATTY: Thanks for the scoop on the thread for getting back to normal...whatever that is
I don't remember Neulasta ads but I'm laughing at the thought of trying to glamorize it! It's funny how different oncs are! My onc said no ABCor D vitamins on chemo. When I ended tx I wanted to start D asap for bones but she told me to wait another month. Osteoporosis runs in my family so I'm a little freaked out by waiting!BARBANNE: You Go Girl...tomorrow you're one step closer to being finished!!! Thinking of you!
MELINDA: YAHOO!!! So incredibly happy for your great news! Those drugs really DO work..THANK GOD! And I hear you about the stomach...mine also has that queasy feeling if it's empty. I really do love veggies but the carbs make me feel so much better! Have hardly been able to eat fruit since tx started. You're motivating me to go to the gym next week! Good luck on the court!
VICKILYNN: Your Grandbabies are as special as their dear Grandma! So hard to lose a dear pet...such a special love. I feel like Kemo was kind of our little mascot. Hugs for all of you! OMG, such awful ses from taxotere. I'm sorry I was talking it up. I got a couple nosebleeds the last tx when I didn't have neulasta...are you having it? Before my tx started, my onc said to make sure to drink lots of water or I may see blood in my urine but I never heard anything about vomitting blood. It sounds so scary. I also took compazine for the first few days after tx. Oh VICKILYNN...I do hope your next txs are easier. How any more do you have?
PAMELAJO & SUSAN: I have white fuzz too! Only I'm really excited...hoping I never have to dye it again! Nothing on legs, in pits, or tushy yet...and I'm a happy gal about that! Have a joyful time with those college girls!! And both you bakers...I hope when we finally get together, you whip up something yummy....cause you make me hungry!!
HOLLY: Glad you got out and about!!! And Chinese food...zowie!!! I remember trying to eat it after first tx and burning my mouth with those little red chili buggers they use! My husband had ordered that night....from then on...I did the ordering! LOVE Chinese!!!
Love and Hugs to all!
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Good Morning All
Just spent 20 mins. reading all the post and I don't know if I remember anything. My last tx has really whacked me out. I was in bed all weekend and yesterday too. My mind is foggy, reallly tired and my stomach is upset. Came to work for a few hours and then back to bed. Thank goodness this is my last. Knowing that really helps get through these not so good days. Hopefully I can post more in the next few days. Thinking of all of you all the time.
THINK POSITIVE
Catherine
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Ronnie Kay: My husband and I watch "Dancing with the Stars" - you are so right Maya definitely needs to win!!! There is no comparison.
Vickilynn: So sorry to hear about Kemo. I was really sad when I heard the news. Kemo is now in heaven looking down on all of us.
Melinda: Great news about the size of your tumor! I go to my surgeon on December 1st and really hope my news is as good as yours. Makes this whole chemo thing worthwhile.
It is now Tuesday and I am back to work. Not feeling 100% but SE's this time were not as bad. I took Advil and it really seemed to help. Downside is that it really bothered my stomach.
Pamelajo: You always make me laugh!
To all of you wonderful women I wish you and your families a very Happy Thanksgiving! I feel very thankful to have all of you.
Love ya,
Barb
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Hey Ladies; So nice to catch up the same week as having a chemo. I am afraid to jinx myself but so far so good.....my feet are dancing the happy dance for sure. I had my first taxotare and no se's at all. After having read some of your posts I am thinking that they are going to come tomorrow or the next day but maybe, just maybe I will be lucky this time. What makes it all so positive is the no nausea! That was the killer for me and so far so good.
Vicky I am so sorry that you are having problems with the se's and also so sorry about Kemo. He is in doggy heaven looking down and keeping a good eye on you. He is happy! I have a lab and he is my baby so I truly feel for you but know he is in a good place.
I have been given celebrex for any joint pain but have not taken anything yet. I know absolutely nothing about Nuelastra or what you take it for. My natural path has me on omega 3 and boswellia and L-glutan to help with nerve damage and muscle pain, etc. so maybe this is helping. I must say so far she has not lead me astray and while my onc is not happy about some of the supplements I am on he has not actually said no to any of them so that makes me feel good.
RonnieKay: I am very surprised to hear they are saying no to all the vitamins....especially D. I have been taking D3 throughout my entire chemo treatment. you are right in how all the oncs are so different. It is hard to keep it all straight sometimes. I think I might just ignore this one and get on the D. It really is soooo good for you in so many ways and waiting a month seems kinda crazy.
I am sorry that I am not so good at mentioning each of you every time. I love reading all of your posts and it is great to start learning each persons personality. We are all fighters and survivors and each of you are doing so well throughout all this. Unless someone actually goes through this they can never know all the "little se's and shit that we put up with. All the little things that just add insult to injury during this whole process. But we will conquer!!
I wish you all the most peaceful of Thanksgiving's and happy times with family and friends.
Hugs to all, Marilou
PS. I have found the blog site but cannot figure out how to download a pic. I always thought I was pretty good on a computer (especially since I am on a Mac which are pretty easy) but no luck. If anyone can give me directions that would be great. thanks bunches
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Just added a new pic....this is the "new me" with my boyfriend. This is the nite I said to hell with it all.....bald is beautiful and I am not hiding it anymore! We had a fantastic nite!!
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Hello SOSisters.... well day 5 and se's finally decided to visit. Tired... so glad we have already done Thanksgiving! There is no way I can post to each of you tonight, so just a few short comments.
Vickilynn - so sorry to hear about Kemo. That precious puppy is watching from heaven and just as happy as she can be. I'm sorry you are having se's with taxotere. I also have nosebleeds, not bad, but the first one scared me and the nurse was very unconcerned about the whole thing. I usually get them about day 5 & 6 and then they go away.
Onty - so sorry you had such a bad reaction. Have you been able to find out anymore information about the new txt?
Melinda - CONGRATULATIONS on your clear margins and shrinking tumor. We are so happy for you and what wonderful news we can all share - the chemo works!!
Neece - glad your hot weather finally broke. I think we are all wondering if there will ever be a "normal" for us. I suspect it will be a lot different, there is no way we are going to ever be able to let all this go.
RonnieKay - love that you are posting again! My very first MUGA was bad before I started the chemo and onc says my combination of HTC could very possibly cause heart damage. Therefore, we will do all the tests to determine the Herceptin schedule. Hope you are able to get to your cabin, sounds wonderful.
BarbAnne41 - I was thinking of you today and know you did well. Just think last one, wow!
Holly - how are you feeling? Glad you are getting out and about, don't let this stop you from going out and enjoying life!
Patty - hope you are feeling well and getting ready for a great Thanksgiving.
Pamelajo - white hair can be very becoming on older women. For those of us who pretend we are not getting older - hair color! You have hair - YEAH!! So did you save us some pie? Where are the cookies? How's the tree coming? I think we should start a survey about how many of us have gained weight - don't hear anyone complaining about losing! Glad your daughter is able to be home.
Susan - I am all in favor of virtual pies - any kind will do, with real whipped cream! Hope you are enjoying having your daughter home.
Catherine - sorry you aren't feeling so well but it is the last one!! You hang in there, it's almost over.
Barbt0323 - glad you are feeling better and ready for Thanksgiving.
Marilou - welcome to the bald and the beautiful! Glad your txt so far has been gentle for you, hope it continues to stay that way!
Well to all you lovely ladies - I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your families. We have come along way since Vickilynn started this post, we have so many things to be thankful for, one of the best being this website and our friendship!
Thoughts and prayers are with you!
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Marilou- you look lovely, and it is liberating isn't it? I couldn't agree more about people not understanding, you have to be there to know. Just like getting into that chair, people are like really? And I always say yea really, and roll my eyes behind their back. I am glad you are having no se's and I will keep everything crossed you don't have any!! Oh and you are right, my onc kept my on a multivitamin, with D, and an iron supplement, through this whole thing. he said he hasn't read any studies he felt were good enough about the B6 and nueropathy, but that it wouldn't hurt me to go ahead.
Anyway I mentioned it to my chemo nurse today and she said the biggest studies have been done on diabetics, the high sugar causes nerve damage, and that big studies haven't been done on chemo but that it is the same effect. She said it was B complex. So since I have the go ahead, is it B complex or B6-anyone know?
BarbT I hope you keep going with the lesser se's and can enjoy your Holiday..
Catherine-I am sorry you feel whacked, but know we are all in this together and we are sending you healing vibes.
Susan I am hanging in there and I am putting in an order for a virtual pie, how about Strawberry/Rhubarb, Rhubarb isn't in season but gosh I love those pies and if it is virtual I can order whatever I want right? I hope you have a happy Thanksgiving..
Ronnie Kay-Thank you for the rooting and I am so glad you are keeping us entertained with your posts I really love them.
Holly-yea good for you! I know I have a tendency to hold my breath whenever someone sneezes or coughs anywhere in my vicinity, but knock on wood I have been good so far, and I work at a college, lots of germy public. Made my DH crazy when I refused to stop working during chemo, but I knew I couldn't stay in, even on chemo I am too antsy. Anyway-I am glad you are well and enjoy your holiday too.
Jane-enjoy your holiday and I hope you get some much deserved rest.
Melinda- 50 people sounds like a major party and I really hope you get to enjoy it and not do to much work.
So I have to tell you ladies I was a mental basket case this morning before my last AC, (I know I still have 12 Taxols, but last AC thank goodness) I just was on the verge of tears and trying to pretend I wasn't "volunteering" so to speak for the se's that lay ahead. And trying to pretend, for DH's sake, that I was calm and good. When just as I was getting really good and worked up, minute before we, my DH and I, were set to leave my MIL stopped by. She was not fully on board with my decision to do chemo, you know how lack of understanding makes the relatives not know, anyway, she hugged me and was real emotional and said," I am so glad you made this decision, I know it has to be tough for you but hang in there." Then she went on to say a friend of hers at work, 47 had breast cancer right side no nodes and opted to just do radiation, (a year a go ) anyway she just had a mammogram and there is something suspicious on her left and she is back in the circus of biopsy and and wait for results. And while I am deeply saddened someone I will pray it is B9 and be thankful that my MIL sees why, and the story gave me that push to settle down and get back in the chair.
I hope all my sisters are well and if for some reason the se's don't allow me the capacity to post, A very Happy Thanksgiving to you all.
Much Love, Gentle Hugs and lots of pie with real whip cream
Barbara
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Jane-we are typing at the same time again!! And it is super funny we both said real whipped cream-gosh we are sisters!!
LoveYa
Barbara
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Okay ladies, I promise real whipped cream. Of course you can have what ever virtual pie you want. Strawberry/rhubarb is my son's favorite pie, and I have a big rhubarb plant in my back yard, so I freeze it for times just like this. I also make a mean dutch apple, and cherry is my favorite. My husband likes sour cream raisin, and mincemeat is a sentimental favorite. My grandmother was a great pie maker, and she baked pies every Saturday, along with coffee cakes, cakes, bread and other goodies. Saturday was always baking day, guess where I always was on Saturdays...in her kitchen. I learned so many lessons baking with her, mostly about how to be a good person. Talking with all of you makes me feel like I did when I was a little girl hanging out with her, you are all sweet, good people. Thank you for being part of my life, and allowing me to be a part of yours.
Everyone with se's going on, know that we are all in this together, and we are pulling for you to have a great, and relaxing week. I am glad you are all still hanging in there. I know it is hard, but you are doing the right thing.
I went to the plastic surgeon today. He said I am looking great, and I am ready to have stage 2 after the required 12 week break from chemo. I will have that done the end of Feb, beginning of March. It is just a minor procedure, and takes about 2 hours. They sort of do an origami thing and reconstruct the nipple, and then they tattoo it a couple of months later. It is so not necessary to do this part, but since it is such a minor procedure and doesn't require anesthesia, I think I will go for it. My insurance totally covers it too, so I guess there is no reason not to.
All right, I am heading to bed now, but I will start on virtual pies tomorrow, and I'll be whipping the cream for you all.
Much love,
Susan
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Catherine sorry you are having a hard time. I hope it only lasts a little longer.
barbara heroine you are for that final AC. Well done.
Pamela I want curly hair too! But not the leg hair please. My luck, I will be like a werewolf everywhere else and my head hair will takes ages to grow!
Marylou your pic is lovely. Good for you. I used to be OK with bald head at home but not if people came ot the door. Now I am more relaxed about it - I figure it is my home and if they have a problem they can leave. But I admit I have not ventured out 'in public' with all bared!
Vickilynn what sad news about Kemo, our little mascot! But know she was well loved.
Happy Thnksgiving to all you US gals, we don't have that here down under but I remember the year I spent in Washington state, what a lovely holiday it was.
Melinda I am so happy to hear of your results - so encouraging. Wonderful news.
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AAAHHHHHHH!!!!!!!! I have gained 4 lbs in a week and half. I have had 3 Taxols. I am sooooo scared. I have been exercising every day (3 mile jog). The only thing I want is toast with butter. My onc is no help. He says "that happens." I have 8 more Taxols to go and the holidays.
I start work today.
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Hello SOSisters... here I sit in the chair getting Herceptin and hydrated. So glad that most of you are going to be able to enjoy your Thanksgiving dinners. The rest of us will envy you but know that we are going to enjoy Christmas.
I have to admit the cancer center is not exactly the place you want to be the day before Thanksgiving but I have really been trying this week to find all the positive and count all my blessings. We are going to have the grandkids over tomorrow, daughter has to work. Doing fingers foods and making it all easy on DH. Grandkids like that better than the whole turkey meal we had on Sunday anyway.
Isn't it interesting how we have all come together through this journey? From all over everywhere and we've found we have so much in common with each other and not just BC! I am really hoping that someone will sponsor us and we are going to have our reunion (or union?). All I can say is wherever we end up they need to have lots of good food and sunshine!
Hope you ladies have an absolutely wonderful Thanksgiving. I am counting all of you as one of my biggest blessing this year!
Thoughts & prayers are with you!
Jane
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Oh China, (((((((((HUGS)))))))), I know how hard this is. I started the whole process overweight, and I am scared too. I was doing okay last week, and now I am having a hard week. Maybe we can just support each other. I have done Weight Watchers, and actually just went back this last Sat., (and have still had a rough week). I am going to keep going to my WW meetings, and I will pass on any info. I think it is just so hard because your body is going through all kinds of changes, and your metabolism just doesn't know what to do. I would like to lose at least 30 pounds, which isn't all that I should lose. l guess that the thing is, fighting the cancer is the most important thing you can do right now, and exercise will help you minimize the gain. You may not be able to stop all gains, but you will have time to get your body back after treatment, and sister, we will be here to support you. I hope work goes well, just be sure to take it easy and take care of you!
Neece, it is good to hear from you. How is the weather? Even if you don't have a holiday this week, I still hope you have a peaceful, and happy week.
Best of everything to all of you!
I love you my September Sisters,
Susan
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Hi Jane,
We were posting at the same time. I hope you feel good tomorrow, and enjoy those grandkids. Finger foods for Thanksgiving sounds like the way to go for the kiddos. Have fun!
XOXOXO,
Susan
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Hi ladies-
I am at work, I figured I had to drive to the hospital for the shot so I might as well get in a few hours of work. The day after chemo is never as bad as that second day.
Susan-I should really freeze some rhubarb and you are a doll to make real whip cream, virtual or not. I have the same memories of my mom and baking..nice to have sweet memories isn't it?
China-I am so sorry, and I know what you mean about the cravings, I have struggled with cheese sandwiches for weeks now, and at first I couldn't find a bread that wasn't so "sweet" , if that makes sense, I went trough 4 loaves, none finished, the deer are happy out in the woods, until my mouth decided Pumpernickel was OK. Now I have trouble leaving them alone. For some reason I have only put on a pound and half, but I can see if adding up with the holidays and when I have my break before Taxol, and my appetite will be more normal. I know how you feel and don't worry soon enough your body will be back to normal again, hang in there. Oh and be nice to yourself, your body has been through a lot, the weight will come off when this is over.
Jane I may be sitting in my chair at work but I am with you in spirit. Enjoy your time with the grandkids.
Neece- Thank you for the congrats. Thanksgiving is nice holiday, food, fun, family, and not all the stress of gifts and such. I hope you have a lovely weekend.
Well I better get some work done before I head off to the hospital.
Love and hugs
Barbara
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Hi everyone. Now don't start throwing things at me through cyber-space but I am going to complain about losing weight during chemo...I have NO butt left and my pants just hang on me, not attractive! I've always been a tall skinny person so I'm thinking maybe chemo just enhances our natural inclination..whether it is toward gaining or losing weight. I share a personal trainer with a friend and I've been hoping with the weights and the steriods I'd get some gooding looking muscles, but so far not so much. Chinablue...maybe your rapid weight gain is just water??? Or...happy thought...maybe with your running you're getting more muscle...which weighs more?
DenverDiva - I just noticed you are from Golden, CO. I spent my teen years on the east side of Table Mountain in Applewood. I went to Wheatridge High, my sister went to Golden High. Small world! The nipple reconstruction sounds interesting. I had breast conserving surgery but because of where the tumor was I lost my nipple. It actually isn't too bad looking and I don't need a prosthetic (just a lightly padded bra) but maybe I should check out the origami nipple!
BarbaraAnn - I'm taking a B complex vitamin which includes all the B's and a whole bunch of B-6 (like 5000% of RDA). My Onc was not enthused about its effectiveness, but he didn't say no so I decided to take it. I had some minor neuropathy problems on AC but haven't had any yet on Taxol. I started the B's before Taxol.
Horray for everyone getting to the end of AC! I know some people have SE's with the taxanes, but so far Taxol has been very kind to me. Definitely a big improvement over the '"red devil".
I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving! At least it will be day when none of our "sisters" are in the dreaded CHAIR!
Patty
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Good Afternoon Sisters!
I am at work right now. One of the few most people are off today or have left early.
Have to put my two cents in about gaining weight of weight loss. I have managed to shed a few pounds so far. I was overweight to start with. Don't have quite the appetite I had before. Just finished A/C and on to Taxotere for 4 rounds after this. Have been drinking a lot of water and really feel bloated with the constipation I suffer frequently.
It seems to me I have heard that Taxotere can make you retain water. Anyone experience that? That along with the steroids that they give you. One of the nurses suggested that I drink tea with parsley. She said it was a natural diuretic.
Bad time to talk about gaining weight with Thanksgiving tomorrow!
Have a very Happy Thanksgiving my sisters.
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Hello Everyone,
I was doing NutriSystem and had just lost about 15 pounds when I found my lump. I think I found it BECAUSE I had lost the weight and my breasts were shrinking. Even tho I had 15 more pounds to go, my onc told me to stop dieting. She didn't want me to gain or lose any significant amount while on chemo.
Just found out today that my surgery will probably be Dec. 17th which will work into my schedule perfectly. I'm ready to get it all over with.
Love, Amy
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Hello Ladies!
I've missed talking to everyone. Work has been insane. I'm struggling to "like" my job lately. This too shall pass and I will love it again, but right now, it's a pain in my backside. I'd love to be able to afford to just lounge around the house for a few weeks.
I worked today, but now I have 4 days of uninterrupted blisss.........."what's that? huh? seriously", You ARE KIDDING ME!!!!" I just found out a couple hours ago that I am required to fix Thanksgiving dinner for the in-laws tomorrow. That was my reaction. Ha lol, ugh. Soooo, after a mad dash to the grocers, I think I'm ready to make dinner.
Anyhoo, I'm so happy we've all come so far. You all are doing great! Things are lookin up! This adventure has been long and arduous, but we are nearing the end, and you can bet, I'll have cookies ready when we all get there!
I am so ready to pig out tomorrow. I don't care that I had to buy new underwear. Ok, I care a little, but I'm sick and it's all about me.......sorry, that phrase makes me giggle. I dare one person to say something about my fat rolls! I'm just growing boobs on my back to bring around to the front
So bring on the pies, bring on the turkey, the potato's, the yams, the cranberry sauce, the graaaaaaaaaaavy, the oyster dressing, the ham, the noodles.... YUMMY!!!!BRING ON THE FOOD COMA!!!!
I love you all and I wish you the warmest holiday wishes. Here's to you and your blessed families!
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