Chemo Starting Sep 09
Comments
-
Wow! Miss 2 weeks and you miss a lot!!!
You know my prayers are with you Patty... as with all of you. Life does go on after BC ... but I don't like how it's going on for so many of you.
I actually thought massaging bunnies was a nice image... soft, furry.
Speaking of soft and furry... Harrison Ford (so I've named our resident bear) has been in camp every day stripping the pears and apples from the trees and stomping down black berry bushes. He's only about 2 years old and a small (for a bear) brown bear (black and brown actually) and very hairy - thus the name. He's skiddish of people which is good, but I still walk Mr. O'Riley very carefully now, watching up in the trees to make sure I don't get surprised! There is also a mama bear and 2 cubs I've seen on the road into camp, and she's the one to be especially cautious about.
The deer and turkeys and ground squirrels are all enjoying the fruit too. During the week we only have a few campers, and so the place is full of wildlife. The weekends, we're filled with campers and horses and the wildlife's not so bold.
Last weekend was an endurance race and over 40 horses and riders did either 25 or 50 mile trail rides! It was kind of exciting to be there. The horses were excited to go - even the night before. Guess they knew what was coming.
We may be able to stay at Humboldt Redwoods for the winter! They're talking to us about moving to HQ and working in the visitor center and the campground that is next to it. We would love to do that. We are only about 40 miles to the ocean and have been enjoying a bit of fog in the mornings and cooler temps. Very nice.
I have met every weekend, a sister BCer at the campground. Last weekend one woman in the midst of chemo didn't want to miss the Endurance Race (she usually competes) so she came and volunteered to check horses' heartbeats... but she was pretty wiped out. I never thought that 2 years out from dx I would be an encouragement to anyone, but she saw that I am doing well and doing what I am loving, so that was hope for her.
And yes, I did go 2 weeks without doing laundry!!!! I actually had to handwash my clothes to make it!!! Talk about roughing it : )
Oh! And I just got a call from our son and his wife will be induced tonight. They did a sonogram and it seems my grandson is nearly 8 lb. 11 oz!!!!! I hope she won't need a C-section (I had 2) but her Mom and Grandma are both there to help her out for a week so that's good. Nothing like a BIG baby ---- who starts out wearing clothes marked 6-months! He will be #6 for us!!!
Personally, I haven't felt this healthy in awhile. I walk the campground at least twice a day (not long, but up and down hill), am breathing fresh air (though linked with horse manure - maybe that's the key!), and feeling pretty stress free. I think that last is the best of all.
Much love to you all. See you in a week. No more hurricanes, earthquakes, scary mammos, etc. OK??? Ranger Vicki - (OK, not really. But I do have a hat!!!)
-
Hello SOSisters....well I'm pleased to say my colonscopy is behind me (ha). Everything was fine, had one polyp but dr. didn't think it was anything to worry about. Said he see me again in 3 to 5 years, so I guess I get to chose - I chose 5!
Neece - was thinking about you having to go through all of the things from your car accident. Years ago my mother fell at a large department store (not mine) and broke a rib and her arm in 2 places due to their negligence. What a long drawn out affair that was, but she won her case. A lot of frustration before we got there. I hope you have someone good representing you and that it works out in your favor! As if you didn't have enough going on already.
Vickilynn - you should be writing novels! Your descriptions make us all feel like we are right there with you! Bears for heaven's sake. Are you the least bit scared? That would be wonderful if you could stay through the winter. And if you are at the headquarters you would have access to not only the laundry but the internet!! When will you know for sure? Do you ride? Do the people ever ask if you'd like to take their horses on one of the trails or is that a no no? I bet you are meeting a lot of interesting people. I'm telling you, you could sell a book! Post as soon as you can Ranger Vicki!
To all the rest of my sisters....hope you have a great Labor Day weekend. I don't have to go back to work until Tuesday. I'm not going to know what to do with myself, but I'm sure the weekend will fly by!
Take care. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jane
-
Patty's all clear, Patty's all clear! And Jane is all clear...teehee! So happy your colon is not going to give us anything to worry about! Wish I could say the same about our breasts!!
Patty: My daughter asked me today if you had your appointment yet (she'll be glad it's scheduled). You are all a part of my family's lives and I love that. I tell them how you're doing by only your first names and they know it's their "auntie" I'm talking about! I'm ok that you're waiting until the 20th (aren't you glad you have my approval!)...and I'm just thinking you'll have even more reasons to celebrate in a grand way!!!
Oh Neece...it makes me so frustrated you're still having pain from the accident. Stay strong and demand that your care continues & I'm hoping they can compensate you for your suffering....even though it could never be enough for how your life is changed because of it! I got rear-ended a couple of weeks ago. I was about the 3rd person at a stoplight and a young woman plowed right into me...impossible not to see the red light....unless, my guess is, you're texting! We pulled over and when I asked, "What were you doing?' (in a questioning, not threatening way), she said, "It was an accident, you don't have to make me feel bad!" OMG...I just looked at her and shook my head. I said, "Your not paying attention complicates my life." She just punched all my info into her cellphone & we waited for the cops to come. That was my truck..the next day the starter in my van died.
Jane: Glad you have the long weekend off...most especially if you're in retail (don't think I knew that!). I plan to get in some retail therapy as son, dil and grandaughter are coming Sunday from Long Beach, CA.and we'll do some "preschool" shopping for Josie! Soooo relieved your test was negative...my hubby has polyps too...so he has to go in every 5 yrs. I don't grow polyps (thank heaven for some things that don't grow in my body!)...so I'm an every 10 yrs gal. Is hubby still doing well???
BarbAnne: How I wish I were close enough for DD to color my hair! I have the gray skunk line and look awful right now & have left a msg with my gal and think she must be on vacation. I wait until the last minute and then want it colored NOW! My hair's long now & I'm thinking I may need to get a short do again. I interviewed for a job last Friday at our district building, in substitute services (I worked with the subs as secretary at the high school). My friend, who's one of the supervisors, asked me if I wanted to come back to work part time and I adore her so thought it might be fun to work with her. Then I found out there were 70 applicants and freaked out, but they only interviewd 5 and I got the call Thursday that I got it. I subbed the last 3 weeks at my hs and loved being back in action so I hope this is a good thing. It's a 6 hour job (starting at 6 am!) and pays twice as much as subbing so that'll be nice. I loved being retired & playing with the grandbabies but I was the only one retired and missed the adult interaction so this will give me that & time with the kids. It's a 9-month job, have all the student days off & don't start til the 12th so...have time to get my hair done!
Vickilynn: OF COURSE you're an inspiration! You're where you are for a big reason!!! I think it's exciting that you have the chance to stay for the winter, although, will your motor home be ok in the cold and damp....much different than Arizona, or would you actually have lodging in HQ? It just sounds romantic & cleansing! I LOVED recess duty, being outdoors, walking the playground (maybe not as exciting as a campground but the only creatures are human children), so I kinda, sorta know what you mean by enjoying the outdoors, breathing clean air & forgetting about stress!I'm excited to hear if Grandbaby #6 came on our 38th anniversary...9/1!!!
Had another fill of saline today in tissue expander...it's the oddest thing. I had them put less in today (40 ccs instead of 90!) cause I get so full and have less mobility with my arm for a few days and want to be able to clean this place for the kids (I'm kind of a maniac last minute cleaner!). They seem to think I'll have a nice shape for reconstruction...although it beats me how they'd know..it's pretty ugly looking now. My friend said I need to "keep my eye on the prize" and I was happy to hear that they'll take care of the little fat pockets in my armpits! Gotta love "resculpturing" (I say that now...before surgery!).
Another crazy long post....sorry....maybe when I go back to work I won't be so long-winded...but don't count on it!
XOXOXOXOXOXO Have a fabulous holiday weekend....stay safe!
-
Hello SOSisters....happy Labor Day. I have spent this day not laboring! Hope you all have had a good weekend.
Patty - Glad you got your appt. Actually the 20th is just around the corner, how long until you will get the results. IT WILL DEFINITELY BE ALL CLEAR!!!!
RonnieKay - we love when you do your long posts. So glad you got your job and doing something you enjoy. I swear work keeps me sane. I don't think I do well if I was home with too much time on my hands. Glad your fill went okay and hope you didn't over do with your cleaning. Won't be too much longer and you'll be saying "it's done and I'm happy".
ChinaBlue - how are you doing? Hope you will check in with us and let us know how your August procedure went. We miss you.
Take care. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jane
-
It's Thursday - must be laundry day!
Jasper Aaron - born Sep. 2!! He was 9 lbs. 5 oz. OUCH!!!! But my DIL did great! Both are healthy. He looks so much like his father... of course I'm prejudice... but he's beautiful! I had bought Osh Kosh overalls (my boys lived in those!) and I'm glad I got 3 month size because he sure won't fit in any newborn sizes!!!! We took our 2 days off (Tues/Wed) and got to visit and hold him and count his fingers and toes and ears.
I've been collecting feathers for his big sister (6 yrs old) and put together a little packet of info with them for her. She loved it. Since she had visited when we first got to Cuneo Creek she found turkey feathers and she was excited to see those, plus feathers from a stellar blue jay, a crow, a hawk, and today I found a quail feather to add to the collection.
And it was good to come home afterwards : ) After Labor Day, our place is so empty (except for us and the wildlife) and calm. But tomorrow there's 70 or so horse people coming for the weekend with a group. They told me they will have "games" and obstacles set up around camp for the participants.
We have been offered chances to ride, but truthfully, with my arthritis in my lower back and hips, I don't think I would enjoy it very much! It's hard enough just walking these days!
Congrats on the new job, Ronnie! Sounds like it will be great for you.
Patty and Jane - are you doing the Vegas countdown????
Jane - so glad for the good report on your colon... who ever thought I'd say that????
-
Hi everybody. The lights are back on in San Diego so I'm checking in with my sistas.
Good news on the colonoscopy Jane. How was the prep? (If it was really horrible, don't answer that question!)
Ronnie - How sweet that your DD asked about me. Congrats on the job! You are far too young to retire completely. Six hours a day with summer off sounds perfect. My business partner and I decided to switch up our hours. We are each taking every other Friday and Monday off. So now that DS is back in school I have four whole days every month completely to myself. Heaven.
Vicki - Welcome Jasper Aaron! I love the idea of your feather collection. Can they give you something for the arthritis pain? You are wise not to press your luck with horseback riding. They are beautiful animals but frankly I'm scared to death of them.
Barbara - How's the new job going? I thought of you the other day. I was sighing over something my son had done and wondered aloud if was really necessary for him to act like such a teenager. He replied "The only thing harder than BEING a teenager, is LIVING with one". From the mouths of babes.
I've been doing some research on MRIs and breast cancer detection and am feeling very confident that this tiny lump the MRI found is nothng. The Onc told me it has smooth margins -- which is indicative of a B9 cyst 97-100% of the time. I'm going for 100%!
Happy weekend everyone!
-
Vicki Congrats, what a good sized baby. Glad you are having such a good time, you happy camper you.
Patty- That is really encouraging, I am still chanting though, Patty will be all clear!! Yes your son is right on the money. I think that is the hardest part. I like your days off plan. I am still adjusting to my new schedule, and learning all the new aspects of my job, but I am enjoying it, I will really be happy when I reach my stride. Patty will get the all clear.
Jane Congrats on the colonoscopy, the prep is no fun, but some friends of mine have been known go to a Weight Watchers to weigh directly after the scope...ahh what some people will do for a number on a scale. Speaking of work and teenagers and sanity, that has been my saving grace through the teen years, having someplace to go where not only did I solve problems people were appreciative of my people solving skills. My old job that is, still figuring out the new one. :-)
Ronnie- Congrats on the job, doing something you like or love is great for the mind, body and spirit!! Yay!! We love, love, love your long posts don't stop!! Its like having coffee with you. I wish we were closer too, I would have my DD color your hair, and we could chatty-chat-chat!
I know today is a somber one, with all the 9/11 tributes, so I send out prayers to not only all my sisters, but all the victims in any form affected by that tragic day.
Love and Hugs
B
-
Hi ladies, my name is Lee Ann and I actually start ACT either the end of this week or next Monday...just depends on what my surgeon says. Supposed to start with dose dense AC, every two weeks for 8 weeks and then Taxol. There is a 10 percent chance my final Her2 test could come back positive and if so, they will add herceptin to the Taxol. The prior two tests both came back inconclusive, so when we get the results from the lumpextomy tissue, if it is still inconclusive he is treating it as triple negative. I have been to the cancer center and they gave me one short and one long wig, a cap and scarf. I have also cut my hair really short for the first time ever in my life because I figure it will be easier to loose hair I don't like than hair I love. I'm not sure what to expect from the chemo, but I did decide to drop my graduate classes until after chemo so I didn't have the deadline pressures. It's nice to meet you all and I look forward to walking through this with people who get it.
Lee Ann
-
Hi, I'm starting AC (4 over 12 weeks) next Monday with T (12, once a week) after that.
I'm like you Lee Ann, I went out today and got my hair chopped off so I wouldn't be sad to see my long hair fall out. I now look like a cross between a lesbian and Justin Bieber. Seems like such a long time before treatment will be over. It's just going into spring here, I think I would rather be chemo-ised during winter but at least I can wear a swimming cap when I go to the beach
-
Good morning SOSisters and welcome to Lee Ann and Taika. Our group of ladies is post about 2 years and we have been through it all. We have sort of dwindled down a bit from our start up group but you are more than welcomed to come here for questions, vent, cry, laugh, whatever you need to do. We will all understand and hopefully can give you some helpful hints to get through this BC journey. You might also want to find a group that is doing chemo right now - that's how we all got together. Where ever you post you will find a group of ladies who will become your life long sisters, a bond that can never be broken. Sounds like you both have taken the first step - the dreaded haircut, it was a very hard step for all of us. However 2 years out, we all have our hair back and most of us had hair coming back in as soon as chemo was over. When we where going through chemo we all posted our bald heads as our avatar! Best advice - one day and one treatment at the time, you will get through this - stronger than you thought you could ever be!
Patty - glad you are feeling confident about your MRI. IT WILL BE ALL CLEAR! So I read today on the ta-ta site that it is only 19 days till Vegas. Wow, will be here before we know it. I'm going to buy you a beverage of your choice to celebrate your all clear while we are there and maybe another to commiserate about having to do your colonoscopy when you go home! The prep actually wasn't so bad. Before I had to drink a gallon of stuff, this time it was less, only I drank in the evening and then again next morning. Much better than one before.
BarbAnne - so glad you posted. Know you have been very busy with your new job but glad to hear you are enjoying it. I'm getting 2 new associates within the next couple of weeks, one permanent, the other seasonal and I can't wait to share the workload! Cracked up when I read about the Weight Watcher ladies. I believe it, I have done Weight Watchers a couple of times and have always been amazed at the length people go to before getting on the scales. I need to go back, it works for me, then I just sort of drift into my old bad habits.
Vickilynn - Jasper sounds like a beautiful baby boy. Isn't it always a joy to see the next generation but just a little sad too? My grandbabies are now 16 and 13 - don't know where the time goes. I love watching them grow up but just makes me realize how time is flying by. Keep up your wonderful posts - I so enjoy your wonderful descriptions, makes me feel like I'm there with you.
I think we should have a tea/coffee party and just chat. I so wish we could all get together, Patty and I are going to do Vegas for you but we need to plan to do something next year!
Take care. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jane
-
Hi all, lovely to read all the GOOD news in your posts; grandsons, jobs, clear scans and tests, more comfy expanded refills, bears and horses. What busy and wonderful lives we have all got back to. I know that for me, when we were all in the midst of chemo, that I wondered at times if I would ever get back to normal life again and enjoy it! Now I know the answer is a resounding YES.
Good luck to Taika (I am a neighbor of yours, just across the "ditch") and to Lee Ann. I echo Janes comments that this is the best place to get info, share experiences and vent when you need it. You might find (or start up) a thread for women getting chemo starting Sept 2011 but by all means come back to this thread for ideas on how to survive the whole chemo trip and maybe for some hope that your lives will again be whole and happy. -
Still loving our "gig" here near the redwoods... I'll know Monday for sure if we'll be able to winter here too. The Visitor Center manager (It's run by the non-profit Humboldt Redwoods Interpretive Association) needs a volunteer who can work the computer (I can do that!) and the fact I was a director for a non-profit really helps! We'd be moving under the big redwoods and I'd miss our sky views (!) but they close Cuneo Creek for the winter so we couldn't stay there!
So the Big Bear is seen daily now at camp and they are all sure making a mess of the fruit trees! They climb up into the branches and knock the fruit and limbs and leaves to the ground and then they leave amazingly large "deposits" just to prove they're eating the fruit! You really have to watch where you step!!!
Good to hear how you all are doing... I just want to know if Jane has her bags packed all ready for Vegas!!!!! And I love your son's insight, Patty! Reminds me of the cartoon "Zits" (?). Oh - and be prepared to hold Jane's purse while she does the zipline. Barb and Ronnie - hope your new jobs are going well for you! Neece - you are a rock to us - do you know that? And all the rest - keep in touch!!!!
And yes, Jane, a good long tea party (or coffee clatch) would do us all wonders!!!!!
I was talking with a Park Aide today and she was chuckling about this new volunteer camphost she's training. The woman is retired military and wanted to know when to do everything... "So at 8:00 a.m. I come to work. At 8:05 I put up the flag. At 8:10 I look at the new registrations.... What do I do after that?" Hmmmm. Well, just to let you know how exciting MY job is as a camp host ---- I get up somewhere between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m., depending mostly on when Mr. O'Riley decides he needs to go outside. I put on my official camp host visor, grab his leash, and take a walk around the campground, exchange greetings with the campers, wish them a nice "ride" (nobody at horse camp stays at the camp during the day - they're all out on "trail"), fix breakfast for Don and I, remember to flip the sign that says, "Park Host - Off Duty" to "On Duty", read a bit... watch the turkeys and deer and in the evening a bear or 3... check to see if the pears are ripe yet, walk around the camp in the evening and listen to "trail tales" from the campers...
Oh my goodness. Am I toooooo relaxed!?!? Will I ever want to go back to REAL life?
I think the truth is - THIS is real life! The rest of you are working way too hard!!!! (But you're making a whole lot more money than me!!!!!)
-
LeeAnn and Taika - If you've taken the step of getting rid of the hair before even starting chemo, I know you are both going to face this head on and will do just fine. I did ACx4 + Taxolx12 too. Those 24 weeks staring you in the face seems like a lifetime. But take it a day, a week, a treatment at a time and you'll be ticking off the weeks in no time. Be strong! You can do this!
Jane - I can't believe I'll be seeing you two weeks from tomorrow! And yes, I will definitely hold your purse while you do the zip line because I have absolutely no desire to do it myself. Wasn't cancer scarey enough for you?
Vicki - I love your day. I see some bunnies out my office window sometimes. And a cat is sitting on my desk right now. Not to mention the 14 year old who crashes in every once in a while. I'm not completely devoid of wild life I guess.
More later...gotta go get the pizza. It's back to school night for this parent!
Patty
-
Hello SOSisters.... well today is a major bummer. Don't know if you remember but I went through chemo with the same 4 ladies the whole time in our little cubicle. 2 of the ladies passed away before chemo was over. They were older and had some other things going on. My other cubicle friend, Rosalie had had a masectomey and we finished up together. I ran into her today when I went to get my port flushed. She has been diagnosed with Stage IV lung and bone cancer. She was so very brave when sharing this news with me and it was all I could do to hold it together until I was in the car. I hate this damn BC which leads to all other kinds of crap!!!!
Neece - been missing you and so glad you posted. How is the job? Any news of the car accident homefront? I wish we could all hop on a plane and come visit you and you could hop on a plane and come visit us!
Ranger Vicki- I so hope you get to stay and work at the museum! Maybe you will be able to check in with us more often. If I do the zipline my DD says she is putting it on YouTube. If she does it will be a good laugh for everyone! I have to tell you that your schedule sounds good to me. I make lists when I should be sleeping and then get up, write it all down, take it to work and get maybe if I'm lucky half of it done. However I have a new person starting this week, so hopefully things will smooth out. Don't want to be worrying about work while I'm in Vegas.
Patty - yes this time 2 weeks from now we'll be in Vegas! Wow, we have been talking about this for so long. I'm hoping next year we can do something to include all of our SOSisters. Maybe California? About the zipline - I have survived BC, 2 weeks in Cardiac ICU and realize that I better be living life now. I'm just trying to figure out in our action packed schedule when I'm going to fit the zipline in, and BTW my DD won't try it either! I loved your comment about not being devoid of wild life. My DH is going to get a taste of wild life while I'm in Vegas since he is keeping the 13 and 16 year old grandkids. Yes, he is a saint.
Everyone take care. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Jane
-
Hello my best SOSiters in the world!!!! Sorry I been out of the picture but I have thinking of all of you! Hugs!!! I wanded to read the back but too much so I started of here. I wanted to say "YEA WE MADE IT 2 YEARS!
I have not return back to work the rod in my leg really hurts. I am going to get it remove but I want time off from Drs. and visit my family. I hope everyone is doing GREAT! I will cxheck in from time to time. I do miss yall!!!!Wanda
-
oh Jane, I am so sorry to read the news about your friend. I have realised that whilst we may be getting back to our lives, there is a sense that it is a little bit like Russian Roulette, to the extent that none of us ever know for sure what our future holds. I don't mean to sound pessimistic cos mostly I am not. But I am sure you all know what I mean. We face the future with big positive smiles and embracing life and all it has to offer. We also know that there are some dark corners around which we cannot yet see.
I do hope your friend travels gently, Jane.
My job is going well, thanks. Coming up for mid semester break at the end of this week - always something to look forward to.
I am excited that next weekend I am flying down to Melbourne for two days of training to be a Community Liaison person with Breast Cancer Network Australia, Australia's 'peak organistion' for services for people touched by breast cancer. This is a non government organisation that produces some valuable resources and information for bc patients, many of which I found incredibly helpful. So I am very happy to be accepted to be a Community Liaison person and to be able to promote this organisation and let women and their families, carers and Drs know what support is out there.I iwll let you know how the training goes. I am looking forward to connecting with other bc survivors in such a positive way.
Vickilynn your camp stories make me smile. What a beautiful life you are living there.
Now, can someone tell me please - what on earth is ZIPLINE????
Wanda, I echo your mantra - we made it to two years!!!
-
Ann and Taika- Welcome, I am sorry you had to join the club, but this site has lots and lots of support and great people. I too had 4 AC and 12 Taxol, it isn't fun but it is doable. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.
Wanda, soo good you checked in! Your pic and hair look very nice. Yay for good anniversaries!!
Neece- I hope your trip is inspirational and relaxing, if that's possible. A Zipline is and I hope I am right here, when you get harness up to a line and then sort of repel between two trees or poles. Kind of like mans first roller coaster, without the coaster :-)
Jane I am so sorry for your friends and you. That is the kind of news that bowls me over too, I become obsessed with why am I so lucky and then what if it comes back...but I don't let myself wallow for long, I have a DD and a DH who do that, I will keep those people and their families in my prayers. If you really zipline and it goes on Youtube I really want the link!! You and Patty have a really awesome time!!! Oh and Good luck with your new associates. By the way your DH is a saint, 13 and 16 huh? Well they are probably nicer to their Grandpa than their parents, so that's a bonus.
Patty--Still on the All clear chant!! I love pizza, wish I was there to share a slice! The only wild life in my new office is one of the really off beat secretaries, but she is harmless enough, just addicted to the butterscotch's in my candy dish on my desk. Have so much fun in Vegas it hurts okay? You and Jane give each other a big hug from me!!
Vicki- OMG I love it, That sounds like an excellent job. I hope you get the winter one. The story of the military lady sounds a little like myself, only now I have such a big workload I feel a little panicky, but all will be fine and I can quit asking for things to do.
All is good with the new job, still learning, it is really nice to kind of have all this intellectual stimulation I never had at my old job. I am just frankly looking forward to January, I should be in full stride, all the December birthdays will be over (we have a ton including DD's 18th) and the holidays will be done, and I can float for a while, floating sounds so good.
Love and hugs to all my sisters
B
-
Hello SOSisters..... so far so good with my new associate. Think she is going to work out very well and I am so happy to have her!
Wanda - so glad you posted. It has been quite a while since we heard from you. Sorry that the rod is giving you so many problems. Please keep in touch and let us know how you are doing!
Neece - what beautiful words "I hope your friend travels gently". I actually teared up, what a wonderful thought. I am so impressed that you were picked to be the liason for Breast Cancer. What an honor, all of your sisters are so proud of you for representing us. And how lucky the organization is to have you on board! The zipline in Vegas goes across a street and underneath the lights of Freemont Street. You can actually see this if you google "zipline, Las Vegas" Everyone thinks I'm nuts but I added this activity to my bucket list quite a while ago and am going to try my best to squeeze it in to our fun filled, overly booked weekend.
BarbAnne - I knew you would like this job and glad to hear you are enjoying it!!! I love my job, love being busy and this is our busiest time, now through December but the days fly and none is ever the same. If I zipline I will send you the link!
Patty - ALL CLEAR, ALL CLEAR, ALL CLEAR, ALL CLEAR, ALL CLEAR. Please post and let us know, my thoughts will be with you tomorrow!!
Take care. Thoughts and prayers are with you!
Jane
-
Hi everybody. Wanda, how did your hair get so long? I'm jealous! I'm sorry the rod is giving you fits, but completely understand your desire to avoid more medical procedures. Aren't we all just sick to death of them?
Neece I don't think they could have picked a better Community Liason. You are smart, knowledgeable and very very kind. Someday you need to come and do some "liasoning" in the States. I too was very touched by your "travels gently" sentiment.
Jane, I just feel awful for your chemo friend. After all we went through one would expect to be "cured". But of course some are not. Let her know our thoughts are with her. I am bringing a camera and you are definitely doing the Zipline - busy schedule or no. We must respect the bucket list!
Barbara, you sound so upbeat about your new job. Isn't it wonderful when you are challenged and like what you do? Hope you have a big supply of butterscotches!
Thanks for all the ALL CLEAR thoughts. My ultrasound is tomorrow...I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they see no need for biopsy!
Patty
-
Me again. I had my ultrasound. They are pretty sure it is just a fibriod somethin-somethin. But because the MRI showed an unusual update of dye in that area, I agreed to a needle biopsy. Results Thursday, or Friday, or latest Monday (you all know this drill!). So far, so good!
Patty
-
Dear Sis....I'm going with the All Good! Still keepin' the prayers alive & the mantra going!!
Love to you all!
-
ALL CLEAR! Thanks for the chanting ladies. The Radiologist called me with the news himself because he was so sure he was doing the biopsy for nothing...and it turned out he was. Funny story...
This little B9 thingy is right on my chest wall, so it took a bit to position me and the needle so they could grab a piece of it without also grabbing something else...like a piece of my heart. The Radiologist assured me that hearts do not take kindly to biopsies and if he killed me biopsing what he was very confident was nothing he would feel really bad. So bad that he would even go to my funeral!
Patty
-
Patty I am sooooooooooooooo happy!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm not sure that I would call that a funny story, we love you toooooo much!! :-)
Yay!! For Patty!!
-
Patty - HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This will be cause for that beverage of your choice in Vegas, I knew we'd be celebrating!
-
YAHOO PATTY!!!! I'm making this news a cause for the beverage of my choice TONIGHT! Obviously your radiologist was a smart man....if he had been wrong, I would've personally come & caused his voice to raise a few octaves higher!!! I'm so depressed I won't be in Vegas with you two next weekend...want to be a fly on the wall when you meet. I remember the feeling when I met you & Vickilynn...it'll be precious!!! Big birthday party with two grandsons tomorrow...1 & 3 years old and a firetruck bouncy house! Hope all is well...I said I'd catch up on Tuesday...I lied...will probably read on Sunday! Love you all & got a smile on my face cause Patty's All Clear!
-
Hi Ladies
It has been forever since i posted but just wanted to check with everyone on our special month. Life goes on and we just need to keep going. Thanks to all of you for all that we shared two years ago it made a very big differece in my life. All is good on the home front. My oldest left for Virginia as a freshmen in college. I am missing him very much. Daughter a senior in HS and looking to leave me before I know it. My mom has be extremely ill for over a year and have taking care of her. New job and life just changing everday. I am just happy to be here experiencing it.
Take Care
THINK POSITIVE
-
Oh Catherine...it's so good to hear from you. I've many, many times tried to see if you'd posted elsewhere but it looked like you'd taken a break...now I know why. I'm sorry your mom's ill and think of how blessed she is that you are well & are caring for her. I know the feeling of young ones moving out & moving on...it's hard, but it's their time to fly (or crash!!! I can say that cause I had a couple crash before they learned to fly!). Anyhoo...hope you keep checking in!
Jane & Patty..can't wait to hear how Vegas treats you!!! I hope you have so much fun that you'll go again next year & take me with you...although I'd be filming Jane on the zipline right next to you, Patty. My kids wanted me to go on one of the first Survivor shows because I was crazy brave & up for anything. Not so anymore.
Oh BarbAnne...I'm working my butt off at my new job & it is fun to be challenged. Not having worked for quite a while, I had no rhythm to my day and I get much more accomplished with a schedule. I should get a candy dish...only I'd get something chocolate & then eat it all myself! Time to gear up for December, girl! Omg, can't imagine if I had birthday shopping to add to Christmas shopping...yikes!
Neece...I think of the gal that was the bc liason at my center...she was incredible, and having not seen her for 2 years, she popped in to talk to me after my 2nd diagnosis & I felt an incredible peace. I know you will be that person to create a peaceful, hopeful, caring atmosphere for our sisters out there. Our sisters are right...they couldn't have found a better person than you!
Vickilyn..anxious to hear of your plans for the winter! If I were you, it'd be hard not to find myself on the road to Yuma again! It's back to rain in the Pac NW...and I don't like it (except that I can wear long pants & sleeves to hide my fat!).
Well, I'm once again in the 2% category...my tissue expander has migrated "more than most"...of course! So I have surgery Oct. 25th to remove the old from under my muscle, have the muscle stitched down & a new, filled expander placed on top of the muscle. They still think I can have the diep flap in December...we'll see. If there's a way for it not to work out, it will. How's that for being pessimistic. I'm with you, Wanda...tired of doctors, appts, etc!!
Just made 5 recipes of Taco Soup to take to a church in the ghetto (seriously!) tonight with DH and a girlfriend. She and her husband feed kids there every week & he's out of town so we're doing it with her. It's been a long time since we've done anything like this...and I know it'll be fun!
Ann & Taika..sending strength & love! Same to the rest of you
-
Ronnie you are special in every way...even some bad ones. Tissue expanders migrate? I don't know why but I have this vision of Madonna with that pointy bra thing on sideways. It's good to know they can fix it...bad that you have more surgery to go through. It WILL WORK OUT. That's my new mantra for you!
So good to hear that you are doing well Catherine. Do you have hair yet? Just kidding. Your bald avatar is beautiful. You will be rewarded for your loving care of your mother.
Three days to the TA TA Reunion! I wish everyone was going. Ronnie...next year!
Patty
-
Hello SOSisters.....wanted to check in and see how everyone was doing. Going to be packing tomorrow evening. Cannot believe Vegas is finally here and it would be absolutely perfect if all of our wonderful sisters were able to join Patty and I. I promise we will share details about sites, people, etc. They are having the world's largest tattoo conference while we are there. That should make for some interesting people!
RonnieKay - glad you are enjoying the job. I'm sorry you are having a migrating tissue expander. I can so relate to the 2%, I remember the surgeon saying 98% of these are nothing, the oncologist saying only such and such percent experiences heart problems, yada yada yada. But I'm with Patty, who I LOL when I read the Madonna comment - IT WILL WORK OUT, IT WILL WORK OUT. How wonderful of you to help your friend and make taco soup. You will have to share your receipe, I love taco soup. Heck, I love almost any kind of food these days.
Catherine - it's so good to hear from you! Sorry to hear about your mom, I know how difficult it is to take care of someone that is in failing health. Glad the kids are doing so well. What are you going to do with yourself when DD goes to college? Second honeymoon?
Patty - I will see you day after tomorrow!!
Ranger Vicki - I'm hoping you get to check in tomorrow and let us know how you are doing. Missed you last Thursday!
Everyone else hope you have a great week. Will check back when I can.
Take care. Thoughts and prayers are with you!
Jane
-
I'll go back and catch up on everyone after I write this... Take me in your pocket on that zipline Jane!
We moved to another campground (in the same park) and it's even more beautiful - a mix of redwoods and meadows with apple trees... and an even better view of the bears. Though they are getting a bit too comfortable and walking through campsites!! Thankfully, it's still just to get the apples, but one visitor (from Germany) was sitting on one side of a picnic table when she looked up from her book and saw a 300 lb. black bear walking by on the other side!!!! That's too close!
We did get the position at HQ and will be moving there Nov. 1! The Interpretive Association's director is taking a medical leave and his assistant needs an assistant. It's still a volunteer position (20 hours a week) but will be more office work than meeting with the public. She needed someone not afraid of the computer (I get really mad at mine sometimes, but I'm not afraid of it!) and since most of the volunteers are 15 years older than I am, there aren't too many that use computers much! It will be interesting. I am hoping I will become so invaluable that they will actually pay me to stay on...
So hard to believe we're past the 2 year starting chemo month. I remember how hard "Breast Cancer Awareness" month was while going through it. I was certainly aware of it! I did not realize how life-changing that would all be - physically, emotionally, and even spiritually. Here we all are with our new "normals"...
I'm using a lot of "..." today... my thoughts are a bit disjointed this morning...
I hope Patty and Jane will raise a glass of whatever to our sisterhood... we'll be there in heart!
Categories
- All Categories
- 679 Advocacy and Fund-Raising
- 289 Advocacy
- 68 I've Donated to Breastcancer.org in honor of....
- Test
- 322 Walks, Runs and Fundraising Events for Breastcancer.org
- 5.6K Community Connections
- 282 Middle Age 40-60(ish) Years Old With Breast Cancer
- 53 Australians and New Zealanders Affected by Breast Cancer
- 208 Black Women or Men With Breast Cancer
- 684 Canadians Affected by Breast Cancer
- 1.5K Caring for Someone with Breast cancer
- 455 Caring for Someone with Stage IV or Mets
- 260 High Risk of Recurrence or Second Breast Cancer
- 22 International, Non-English Speakers With Breast Cancer
- 16 Latinas/Hispanics With Breast Cancer
- 189 LGBTQA+ With Breast Cancer
- 152 May Their Memory Live On
- 85 Member Matchup & Virtual Support Meetups
- 375 Members by Location
- 291 Older Than 60 Years Old With Breast Cancer
- 177 Singles With Breast Cancer
- 869 Young With Breast Cancer
- 50.4K Connecting With Others Who Have a Similar Diagnosis
- 204 Breast Cancer with Another Diagnosis or Comorbidity
- 4K DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ)
- 79 DCIS plus HER2-positive Microinvasion
- 529 Genetic Testing
- 2.2K HER2+ (Positive) Breast Cancer
- 1.5K IBC (Inflammatory Breast Cancer)
- 3.4K IDC (Invasive Ductal Carcinoma)
- 1.5K ILC (Invasive Lobular Carcinoma)
- 999 Just Diagnosed With a Recurrence or Metastasis
- 652 LCIS (Lobular Carcinoma In Situ)
- 193 Less Common Types of Breast Cancer
- 252 Male Breast Cancer
- 86 Mixed Type Breast Cancer
- 3.1K Not Diagnosed With a Recurrence or Metastases but Concerned
- 189 Palliative Therapy/Hospice Care
- 488 Second or Third Breast Cancer
- 1.2K Stage I Breast Cancer
- 313 Stage II Breast Cancer
- 3.8K Stage III Breast Cancer
- 2.5K Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
- 13.1K Day-to-Day Matters
- 132 All things COVID-19 or coronavirus
- 87 BCO Free-Cycle: Give or Trade Items Related to Breast Cancer
- 5.9K Clinical Trials, Research News, Podcasts, and Study Results
- 86 Coping with Holidays, Special Days and Anniversaries
- 828 Employment, Insurance, and Other Financial Issues
- 101 Family and Family Planning Matters
- Family Issues for Those Who Have Breast Cancer
- 26 Furry friends
- 1.8K Humor and Games
- 1.6K Mental Health: Because Cancer Doesn't Just Affect Your Breasts
- 706 Recipe Swap for Healthy Living
- 704 Recommend Your Resources
- 171 Sex & Relationship Matters
- 9 The Political Corner
- 874 Working on Your Fitness
- 4.5K Moving On & Finding Inspiration After Breast Cancer
- 394 Bonded by Breast Cancer
- 3.1K Life After Breast Cancer
- 806 Prayers and Spiritual Support
- 285 Who or What Inspires You?
- 28.7K Not Diagnosed But Concerned
- 1K Benign Breast Conditions
- 2.3K High Risk for Breast Cancer
- 18K Not Diagnosed But Worried
- 7.4K Waiting for Test Results
- 603 Site News and Announcements
- 560 Comments, Suggestions, Feature Requests
- 39 Mod Announcements, Breastcancer.org News, Blog Entries, Podcasts
- 4 Survey, Interview and Participant Requests: Need your Help!
- 61.9K Tests, Treatments & Side Effects
- 586 Alternative Medicine
- 255 Bone Health and Bone Loss
- 11.4K Breast Reconstruction
- 7.9K Chemotherapy - Before, During, and After
- 2.7K Complementary and Holistic Medicine and Treatment
- 775 Diagnosed and Waiting for Test Results
- 7.8K Hormonal Therapy - Before, During, and After
- 50 Immunotherapy - Before, During, and After
- 7.4K Just Diagnosed
- 1.4K Living Without Reconstruction After a Mastectomy
- 5.2K Lymphedema
- 3.6K Managing Side Effects of Breast Cancer and Its Treatment
- 591 Pain
- 3.9K Radiation Therapy - Before, During, and After
- 8.4K Surgery - Before, During, and After
- 109 Welcome to Breastcancer.org
- 98 Acknowledging and honoring our Community
- 11 Info & Resources for New Patients & Members From the Team