Calling all TNs

Cocker_Spaniel

Lisa maybe talk to your doctor about Aclasta or Zometa. I have mentioned this before on this site.   It is an IV infusion done in the surgery, about 20 mins.  There is a drug for osteoporosis that is called Fosamax (may be a different name in your country).  Fosamax has to be taken in an upright position for half hour or it causes stomach problems but an Aclasta infusion will usually be  given once a year and then you have another bone density scan to ascertain what/if any difference it has made to your osteoporosis.  It is proving to offer great benefits for this condition.   

Luvmydobies another food to be aware of, especially with diverticulitis, is pips, nuts, seeds, skins.  Any fruit with pips in such as  strawberries, blackberries, tomatoes etc. as the pips get caught in the small tear in the diverticulum ad causes a flare of diverticulitis.  Once it is inflamed a low index diet is best to allow the flare to die down and then you introduce foods slowly again.  Jarris is right about probiotics as they provide benefits to your digestive and gut system. They also promote your overall immune system and include B vitamins.  I am a terrible worrier too and the more you know the more you worry.  Anxiety can cause so many problems and make them so much worse than they need be.  Perhaps some relaxation methods could help with worry.  I think anything is worth a try.

Ally glad your scans went well and you wasn't tipped on your head!!. All waiting for great results now.  In your pocket.    

      

slv58

I'm thinking of everyone going through tests and procedures. It seems to be a very stressful time for many but with our collective positive energy- we WILL prevail!

I'm trying to stay relaxed and positive as I wait so I know it can be hard. Luv I'm so happy you are getting things checked- think how nice it will be to not have to worry about this, sometimes that first step to inquiry is the hardest-at least for me.

Arlene thinking of you as you near surgery.

Ally, isn't that MRI fun? I think the worst part was the camera ridge between breasts! It left a mark for an hour. Uggg.

Who else hates all these procedures we go through?

Hugs to all

Shari

Luvmydobies

Well I don't expect to get a call to schedule my ultrasound because of the dang snow in NC! They're telling people not to get out and lots of schools are closed, etc.!! Really getting scared because IF it is diverticulitis everything I've heard and read says to not let it go. My PCP didn't "think" it is that but it still scares me. My mind is all over the place because I've read bizarre things on here where people have similar pain and it turns out to be liver or lung mets. I need to quit reading more into it I guess but I can't stop myself sometimes. I keep telling myself if it were a perforation or ruptured bowel, appendix, etc, I would be worse. Kicking myself for not going to the ER. Anyway thanks everyone for the well wishes! XOXO!!!

Luvmydobies

My dog's however are loving the snow. They stare out the window mesmerized at the snow flakes. When we let them out they act like children. Elf our youngest snatches the flakes out of the air. Hahaha! If you are bored, get a doberman. They're such goofballs and are very entertaining!!

greenae

Thank you, Shari...I am running around today trying to get house in order, and of course a mani-pedi...guess I'll get pink...for the cause (ugh-do not like pink...lol) I am trying to keep the anxiety in check with 1/2 an ativan in evening. But I am getting so teary. Have not cried much through these past 8 weeks, but it is hitting me hard now. I hope they dope me up before I am wheeled into the OR. I am having a lot of trouble with the image of seeing my breast for the last time. Am trying to look at this black and blue (from the last BX) breast and hate it for what it has done to my life. Then I want to wake up thursday after surgery and be ready to FIGHT. I want to be able to see the good in every day and hope this experience makes me a better person. I cannot thank you enough for your kind words and advice.

love, arlene

Luvmydobies

Arlene, Ativan is great stuff! They asked me if I wanted something to calm me before going to the OR and of course I said yes! It helped so much I had to have a strong nurse to pick me up in his arms and put me on the operating table. He was so big I looked like a doll in his arms. I was so relaxed I put my arms around his neck like he was my husband carrying me over the threshold. Hahahaha! So yes do ask for something. Also they gave me some disposable panties to put on but when I woke up in recovery they were gone so somehow those got removed in the OR. I'm praying for you! XO!!

greenae

Thank you, luv! I guess we have a straight cath in for urine during the sx. Had that when I had gall bladder out. And big yes to the Ativan! Wishing you good luck...let it be gas or a lil cyst and FEEL BETTER! The anxiety is gonna kill me before cancer does...lol

slv58

Arlene I totally understand your feeling about saying goodbye to your breast. I'm feeling the same way. It has always been a part of my body that I liked. My surgeon asked me the first time around if I identify myself by my breasts. I said no, but to be honest, after a lot of thinking, I guess I do to some extent. I've always liked to buy clothes that were a bit revealing, I always liked their size and shape. I enjoy sexy lingerie. I know that I am so much more than breasts, but I'm having a hard time saying goodbye. I wonder about my nipple as silly as it sounds. What happens to it? It's my body and I wish I could keep it complete. I would probably feel this way if it was my big toe!

In one of my guided imagery- I think it's Bernie a Segal, he says that hating your cancerous body part is full of negative energy. I believe that, but then without anger I am left with a sad feeling. My main priority is to get rid of this cancer. Again. I will do anything and put up with any SE to be clear. As I'm sure we all would.

I was given 2 Ativan for my MRI, but only took one. I think I'll save the other for the 'big reveal'!

Don't forget a small pillow for the seatbelt on your ride home. I'll be thinking of you and sending positive hugs

Luv, I'm sorry your stuck with the weather. Please try and relax and stop reading! Maybe try meditating, or a bath with some nice music. I know it is so hard to stop your mind, but trying to stay busy may help. Hoping you get unremarkable results quickly!

anotherNYCGirl

Shari and Arlene, - I remember feeling the same way when I was going in for bmx. My last night at home with my own breasts was a strange feeling, but we do come to accept the changes, and know that we are so much more than our breasts!!

I had long surgery, but didnt need bladder catheter. I hope the same is for you!

Ativan was given to me when I started chemo, - prescription said to take for sleeplessness or nausea! It did help both! Great to have on hand!!

Wishing you an easy surgery and speedy recovery!!

Sending hugs

Luvmydobies

Arlene, I didn't have a catheter for some reason. Every doc is different though. My breasts were nothing to be proud of but it was still hard but it was easier once I focused on knowing the surgery was taking the Cancer out of my body! So you and Shari just try to focus on that. And yes don't forget the pillows and either a button down or a shirt/jacket that zips. I got several soft, warm button down PJ tops for recovery. They will probably tell you to take stool softeners and drink plenty of liquids to avoid constipation from the pain pills. I took Percocet then Hydrocodone and was never in too much pain. It wasn't bad at all pain wise for me.

My ultrasound is at 2:00 tomorrow! Hubby can't go but I guess they won't tell me much tomorrow anyway. I have to drink 32 ounces of water and hold it in. My stomach is really rumbly and feels like I'm on the verge of diarrhea. Hoping it's just nerves and/or the granola bars I had for breakfast plus the benefiber. But I worry it's related to my issue! Not going to read anything else on the Internet. Thanks for the well wishes ladies!

greenae

Thank you, Shari, luv and nyc...it helps to know my crazy thoughts are shared by others, and not so crazy, after all. Shari, get an RX for ativan from your PMD. I have a Whole Bottle, and even if I don't take it, it sure helps knowing I have it. I am dreading wednesday night and thursday morning. Have decided to forget about the tracer injections, because there's nothing I can do about NYU's ridiculous policy of no lido or EMLA. radiologist said it could interfere with isotope uptake in the lymphatic system. I don't believe him, but I don't want to be the cause of anything going wrong. So, I will deal with the pain. running like crazy today to be ready. Love to all of you!

arlene

slv58

Arlene are you allowed to take Ativan before tracer injections? I had myself worked up (as usual!) and found that the Ativan made it very easy! I felt very slight stinging (not as bad as the claimed 'bee sting' from core biopsy) and I'm sure it's because I was so relaxed from the Ativan that my perception of pain was different.

Luvmydobies

Arlene, I agree with Shari. Ask if they'll give you that Ativan before getting the tracer! They gave me mine before the tracer too, and it was just the way Shari described, slight sting but not bad at all. You will do just fine. I was more worried about the crazy things I might be saying coming out of anesthesia than the actual surgeryafter taking the Ativan! It's great stuff!

anotherNYCGirl

arlene and shari

I never knew to ask for lido or emla before tracer injections, and i had no idea what to expect, but the shots were quick.

yes, - take laxatives if taking pain pills! very important!!

small pillows for under arms were a big help, and also, someone gave me a hairdresser type plastic cape for washing my hair in the sink (before showers were ok). Dr said no leaning back for washes, as in a salon, so could only lean forward, and my husband and my daughter were my hair washers here at home.

everyone here probably has suggestions to help, I am sure!

we will get you through this!!

Allydp

Shari, I've been thinking about you a lot lately. Hang in there and stay strong.

Arlene - Even though I couldn't wait to get rid of my breasts, I was very nervous for the surgery, recovery and pain. It was so much easier than I expected and what I imagined. I'll be thinking of you and sending you prayers for a smooth surgery and quick recovery.

Luvmydobies - in you pocket for tomorrow! And yes, try to stay away from Google. I'm the biggest hypocrite on earth telling you that though. I usually can't help myself either. Let us know how it goes. Hopefully the roads aren't too bad.

Got some results today. My spine MRI is clear! I have two hemangiomas in my t-spine (benign tumors), but I knew about those already since they showed up on my breast MRI last year. They couldn't give me the femur results since it was from a different ordering doctor. That's the good news. Not so good news...I have a lump in my mastectomy scar. It showed up right after my exchange surgery, so I figured it was swelling or the way I was stitched up. My BS felt it today and wants to get an ultrasound. I was able to get in first thing in the morning. And given the ongoing bone pain she also ordered a bone scan. I was surprised since she knew I was waiting on the MRI results. So 1 down, 3 to go. I'm beyond relieved at today's results, but my nerves are shot at this point!

slv58

Ally, I'm so happy your MRI is clear - that is worth holding onto! I'm sorry that you are going through the waiting for further tests but it sounds like you have a very thorough BS who is on top of things. Thinking positively for ultrasound tomorrow. When will you have the bone scan? I hope tests are quick and unremarkable, I will be thinking of you and holding your hand! Hugs, Shari

Luvmydobies

Ally at least you did get some good news. I'll be in your pocket as well tomorrow! Hang in there! That's all we can do, right? I do wish I had some Ativan.

anotherNYCGirl

Ally, - I am so happy about your good first report! The others are on the way!

Allydp

Shari - thanks so much. bone scan is Thursday morning. I'm really hoping to have all the results by the weekend. And hugs right back at ya!

Luvmydobies - thanks. Yep, that's all we can do. Thank goodness we have each other to lean on too! Can you call your PCP, onc, someone for an Ativan script? I would think they'd at least give you a few to get you through the next few days.

AnotherNYCGirl - thank you! I was just going over your signature and see that you recently had to have a TE placed again. I hope you don't mind me asking, but did you have an issue with your implant or was it a revision? I hope you're recovering well and can exchange it out soon.

Tobycc

ally, added to prayer and pocket list!!!!

Luvmydobies

Ally, I didn't even think to ask for some yesterday. I go to therapy every week but it only helps so much. I've had some weird reactions to different meds (antidepressants) the therapist Prescribed so my husband is very against me taking anything. I don't want antidepressants either because like I said I'm one of the few who have had bad reactions. I didn't react badly to Ativan though,but my therapist doesn't want me to get Ativan because after getting C Diff I hit my bottom and had to be on Ativan and Klonopin plus Remeron. I had a very rough time tapering off all of them. I would never abuse Ativan because I would only use it for times like this but she still doesn't feel comfortable prescribing it. But if I have to get further testing after tomorrow I may ask my PCP for a low dose.

Meadow

Thinking of you Ally.

anotherNYCGirl

Hi Ally, - I had to have implant removed due to healing problems on the side that had radiation treatment years ago. The PS thought he could repair the spot that he was concerned about, but in the OR he realized that he had to take the implant out. I am not sure what he plans to do now. Seeing him tomorrow.

Hugs and BE WELL wishes to you, and all here!

greenae

Hi All

Thank you for the kind thoughts and advice...I wish I could share my bottle of ativan with all of you! LOL. I will take some tomorrow. I have been so busy trying to get things ready at home, that I haven't had any time to worry today. Weird sense of calm...but so much better than anxiety. Ally and Luv...keep getting good results, I am in your pockets...Shari, we will get this garbage out of us soon. Another nycgirl...and all of you have so helped me with my worries. God Bless this site...I would not have made it mentally thru these past 8 weeks without you. I wish we could all go to the Keys together...I want some heat and sun...it's freezing here for too long already!

My surgery is at 1p on thursday...gearing up and trying to keep my head on straight.

love to all of you

arlene

eileenpg

Greenea,luvmydobies,and Ally=Good luck. I'm with you,

slv58

AnotherNYCG good luck with your PS apt. I hope he has a quick painless plan for you, it sounds like you've been through enough! Hugs girlfriend

Shari

Tobycc

Eileen, echoes here keeping all of you facing surgery, tests in my huge overall pockets

Love

Kath

simplelife4real

Hi All,

Sorry I haven't been on here much lately. Hubby and I have both been down with the flu and now the power is out at our house for the past four days due to an ice storm. The ice storm was massive and there are still about a third of the people in our county without power. We are expecting a week of very cold temperatures so last night, we checked into a really nice time share right around the corner from where we live. As we were gathering our things (in the dark) to take over to the time share, I saw an animal dart across the floor in our master bedroom. Turns out a chipmunk had somehow gotten into our house! I think that was the last straw for my husband! After I get done posting this, I need to do some internet research to figure out how to get rid of the chipmunk.

Here's some good news for us TNBC gals....turns out if we are only slighly androgen positive (1%) then we can benefit from anti-androgen therapy. Study shoes that even breast cancer with a few androgen receptors benefit from anti-androgen therapy

Ally, I am so sorry you are having to deal with so many tests. The bone scan is a really easy one. I've had it twice. I know you are on pins and needles with each one. Wishing you "unremarkable" results on every one.

Shari, I am sad you are having to deal with the beast again. Arlene, you have been through the ringer already just getting your diagnosis. I hope from this point on that things go smoothy. Thinking of both of you as you go through your surgeries.

Well...off to go research chipmunks!

Kay

Luvmydobies

Thanks eileen!! Last night was rough. Was hurting right when I went to bed. Then the nerves really kicked in. So I don't feel the best this morning. Hoping it's just nerves and anxiety! I have been more gassy the past few weeks and stomach has been a bit more noisy. My bowel movements have been fine for a few weeks except that I had loose stool once yesterday. Then I think about the off and on burning urination but no infection. My mind is going to Ovarian mets/Cancer. I've read that it causes bloating, bowel issues and even urinary and now I'm having this pain. Then, I really wish I would've pushed for a CT when I was in the ER in December. My white count was slightly elevated but they didn't even mention Diverticulitis or any other infection. Maybe that's because I wasn't running a fever. I only had pain which was less than it has been the past few days and I vomited four or five times. They said viruses and stress can raise white count and gave me some Zofran and I felt better, so I didn't push for the scan. UGH!!! Anyway, thanks for everything! Trying to calm down!

Ally, thinking of you as well this morning!! HUGS!!

Allydp

NYCGirl - I'm so sorry about the complications you're having. Hope your appointment with your PS went well today and you got some answers and a game plan.

Thanks again everyone for standing by me. I had the ultrasound this morning. Turns out there's two areas of concern. They ended up taking a biopsy of both sites right then and there. They took a core out of the lump in my scar, but there's another lump between my sternum and implant that they drained fluid from on top of a core. The fluid has me really worried. The radiologist who performed the biopsies was the same doctor who did my biopsies at diagnosis and she remembered me. In fact, I really bonded with one of the techs during my diagnosis visits and I've kept in touch with her over the past year. She was also there this morning, which was nice. The radiologist thinks these are going to come back as just surgical changes, but given my history she wants to be thorough. She promised me results Friday, so I'm glad I don't have to wait through the weekend. I'm still waiting on the femur MRI results. The ordering doctor is out sick today...of course...so I probably won't hear until tomorrow. Bone scan in the morning.