March 2013 Surgeries

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  • Lisa_Lock
    Lisa_Lock Member Posts: 16
    edited March 2013

    Luvinmylife, 

    You hang in there! Diagnosis can feel like a slap in the face. It stings at first, you absorb it, give yourself a couple minutes to deal with it, then you figure out a positive plan because you have alot to fight for. I am amazed at how well you are doing after surgery. :) Prepare yourself for a few ups and downs as you go through this. That way, you won't beat yourself up if you have a bad day. Your body has alot to heal from. I had ALOT of arm pain about a week after surgery. In fact, I felt like the arm pain, numbness and freezing cold hand was worse than everything else for a little while. The nerves do get all stirred up and nerve pain is a tough thing. The skin sensitivity is real bad too. I am a month out of surgery, and things have finally started to calm down in my arm. I have read that nerves are slow to heal. So we have to remember that they take a little while when messed with.  I have had other stupid complications that you are not having to deal with, so we will concentrate on what you have going on. Make sure you get real good direction from your Oncologist. I think your Onco will come up with some treatments you might not have thought of. Chemo helps thousands of people. Do you have a Cancer Treatment Centers of America near you? They are aggressive in the breast cancer fight and they also give complimentary treatment suggestions and some alternatives that are working real well.  I have several friends that have recommended them that went through big dx's.  It seems like I remember on a visit years ago, they had one close to where I went to school in Tulsa. I did not have one near me, but I did get a second and a third opinion to settle my mind about what I was doing. I noticed you used Vit C to help the constipation. That is great info. Sounds like you do your homework and you will get the best care for you and for your boy.  I wish you the best, and hope your doctors appointment gives you a big dose of encouragement too! 

    Lisa 

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  • kap
    kap Member Posts: 73
    edited March 2013

    These drains are so painful tonight. They should be removed Tues but right now I feel like that is forever away. It feels like the drain is going to pop right through my skin. Sorry I just need to vent.

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  • Koru_
    Koru_ Member Posts: 15
    edited March 2013

    My surgery - partial mastectomy/lumpectomy, sentinel node biopsy and port placement is scheduled for Monday.  I'm supposed to show up at the hospital at 5:45 a.m. for prep.  I was told I am on the surgeon's schedule for 8:45 a.m.  I couldn't help but get a vision in my head of Dorothy, the Lion, the Scarecrow and the Tin Man all getting prepped to go see the Wizard.  I know hospitals are all about the hurry up and wait; I asked my nurse navigator if there would be a massage and pedicure included in that 3 hour prep time. She's with me and thinks its a great idea, but somehow I just don't think she's going to be able to pull that one off!

    I'm hoping and praying for clear margins and negative lymph nodes as my surgeon is placing a cavity evalutation device in anticipation of being able to do Mammosite radiation which will cut my radiation treatment from 6-1/2 weeks down to only one week of 2x/per day treatments.  Then, on to chemo.

    I've met with the MO and his tentative plan is to start chemo about a month after the surgery; he is thinking 6 rounds of TCH provided my nodes are negative.  Of course, the herceptin is a year-long commitment that will happen with negative or positive nodes.  What I'm wondering is, when they actually remove the port a year from now, do I get to keep it as a souvenir????

    I truly appreciate reading everyone's story; your individual experiences with your surgery and how you are faring with your recoveries and next treatment steps.  You are all an inspiration!  

    I was blind-sided by a routine mammo and there has been so very much for me to take in, learn and integrate in the days since 2/1/13.  Next steps for me are beginning my investigation into juicing and how I can provide the most robust nutrition to my body as I look to face the onslaught of chemo.

    My prayers are not only with all of us that are going through this and our families but also with the surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, nurses, office staff, researchers, janitorial crews, etc.  There is a huge cooperative effort that has gone into our care.  And, while I may not have an inexhaustible list of everyone that has had any part to do with my care, I pray that they are blessed through their chosen line of work - for their chosen line of work has all come together to make it possible for me to have this cancer treated and moved out of my life.

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  • mamasixtaz
    mamasixtaz Member Posts: 319
    edited March 2013

    Got through my last shift at work, lots of tears and hugs and many well wishers!  All will be anxiously awaiting news from my family after my surgery on Tuesday.  Brought home more food for the family, will have plenty to eat before, during and after surgery.  Now to get the house ready, cleaned and organized for when I come home.  Plenty to keep me busy and hopefully passing the time quickly easing the anxiety.  Sometimes it becomes almost paralyzing anticipating the upcoming surgery, yet I know it will be here soon.  3 days 10 hours....not that I am counting or anything!

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  • Lin43
    Lin43 Member Posts: 108
    edited March 2013

    It is amazing how I can read post after post and feel as though I could have written them because regardless of our specific diagnosis, we are all on such a rollercoaster!



    Kap-My drain is painful tonight too and I also have to wait until Tuesday. That will be just about two weeks too long for me and this drain!



    Koru--I will be thinking of you on Monday. I had to smile at your Wizard of Oz description. Perfect! I did 6 months of chemo first (am very fortunate to now have clear nodes and margins due to chemo success), then surgery last week, possibly radiation (will find out soon about that), and for sure continued Herceptin. I've had my port since August. Not sure what I will do when it is finally removed. Perhaps we could use it in some sort of modern art piece. ;)



    Lovinmylife--I am sending many warm thoughts your way. I will never forget the first hours and days of my diagnosis. I was devastated, and every time I tried to get up I felt knocked down again as I learned how serious my diagnosis was. I also had cancer in the nodes, grade 3 multifocal tumors etc. But here I am today, and after 6 months of chemo I have clear nodes. I just had a mastectomy, may still need radiation, and will be getting weekly Herceptin infusions until December, but I have learned how powerful and how specific today's cancer treatments are. Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) does have a great reputation for treating breast cancer, especially if you need/want alternative treatment. I live in the Phoenix area, and we have a CTCA on the far west side and an MD Anderson and Mayo Clinic on the east side. I went with MD Anderson because it is close to me, has a great reputation, and I really like my oncologist. Your oncologist can be a strong source of support and encouragement. Mine has soothed me many times over the past seven months while taking my treatment one step at a time, always remembering that I am a person with a life apart from and beyond the cancer. I also have weekly Reiki sessions which I love, and I believe in the power of complimentary modalities. My next task is learning everything I can to make my body a bad host for cancer. I will share what I learn on this board.

    Please be kind to yourself, try to take it one day at a time, accept that we cannot always be/feel positive or strong, and know that the worst days do not last forever.

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  • Maureen1
    Maureen1 Member Posts: 614
    edited March 2013

    (((LuvinMyLife)))...I've been thinking of you this morning and hoping you are feeling the support of all your "surgery sisters" around you, we're here for you...as others have said, don't let this knock you down, your oncologist will help you see your options and fight this beast (((Hugs)))

    (((Karrie/kap and Linda/Lin43))) ouch, ouch, ouch - hate those drains...but hang in there, I was a few days ahead of you so I got mine out just before the weekend and I know it's of little consulation now but you will start feeling better fast once they are out...I had to up my pain pills to 2 at a time instead of 1 to make it thru those last couple days. One thing I hadn't prepared for after they were removed was the burning pain in the channel where the drain had been - I'd take it any day over having drains but for these first few days I've had more burning as the channel filled is closing off...

    (((Mamasixtaz))) - you're in the "home stretch"...this time next week surgery will be behind you and you will be in the "winners circle" with the rest of us:)

    (((Koru))) welcome to the March 2013 surgery group...so sorry you were blindsided by this diagnosis - we all know how that feels...one day life it "normal" and the next day it is a "new normal", not one any of us would have chosen but we are forced to find our way thru it...you have two surgery sisters with you on Monday, (((Gardengirl33 and Pattysmiles)))...we will be sending all our positive healing prayers and (((Hugs))) to all three of you as you prepare for surgery this weekend...like your Wizard of Oz analogy, we are following our own "yellow brick roads" hoping to find our way to a better place - know the surgeons are the wizards but you'll have to decide who's Dorothy and who's the Tin Man, Scarecrow, and Lion LOL:) Agree with your thoughts on our medical teams...God bless them for the work they do...I told my PS that I appreciated his dedication to helping me find a "little bit of normal" and he teared up and said "this is a calling for me, I'm glad I can help you" and finally....YES, they gave me my port to keep as a souvenir!

    Okay March surgery sisters...here's the latest list:)

    March 1st - Left mastectomy with TE's - jj52

    March 1st - Bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction/TE's - Keke

    March 2nd - Right mastectomy, nipple sparing with immediate reconstruction/TE's - ANewDawn

    March 4th - Left mastectomy with axillary node dissection - anne11595

    March 4th - Bilateral mastectomy with DIEP reconstruction - ironmagnolia

    March 4th - Bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction/implants - Maureen

    March 5th - Reconstruction: Tissue expander placement (Right) - Cocok

    March 5th - Preventive skin and nipple sparing mastectomy with TE's - Jenamae

    March 5th - Right mastectomy with immediate reconstruction/TE's and axillary node dissection - Marian

    March 5th - Bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction and sentinel node biopsy - Tracey

    March 5th - Bilateral mastectomy, with anxillary lymph node dissection on ipsalateral side and sentinal node biopsy on contralateral side - tx_anne

    March 5th - Lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy (clear node - YAAY) - LibraryLynn

    March 5th - Bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders - Not-Me

    March 6th - Right mastectomy and axillary node dissection - Linda

    March 6th - Bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction/TE's - jrose

    March 6th - Left mastectomy with immediate reconstruction/possible TE - 2girls-2spaniels

    March 6th - Right lumpectomy - RiverFlows

    March 6th - Left lumpectomy - TXWildFlower/Emily 

    March 7th - Right Mastectomy with Reconstruction/Tissue expander placement (Right) - Denise (dede707)

    March 8th - Bilateral mastectomy with immediate DIEP reconstruction - Cuetang

    March 8th - Mastectomy with tissue expanders - hunter1105

    March 6th - Bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders - jk6/Janice

    March 8th - Bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction/implants - Karrie

    March 8th - Right mastectomy with axillary node dissection - LuvinMyLife

    March 8th - Right lumpectomy - whisperwhillow

    March 12th - Exchange surgery with scar revisions - cat24

    March 12th - Bilateral mastectomy with left axillary node dissection and right sentinel node biopsy and possible TE, plus a port placement. - LKSHER

    March 12th - Bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders - VeganNicole

    March 13th - Latissimu Dorsi flap surgery with implant - Shelley

    March 14th - Prophylactic bilateral mastectomy - Kayrem

    March 15th - ? procedure - Nikstar

    March 18th - Right lumpectomy/partial mastectomy with immediate reconstruction - Pattysmiles

    March 18th - Left mastectomy with axillary node dissection - Gardengirl33

    March 18th - Partial mastectomy/lumpectomy, sentinel node biopsy and port placement - Koru

    March 19th - Bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction latissimus dorsi flap and implants - Mamasixtaz

    March 20th - Left mastectomy with tissue expander - Sharon (Butterflylady)

    March 21st - Bilateral mastectomy with Left axillary node dissection - Foreverchanged72612

    March 21st - Bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders and latissius dorsi flap, axillary node dissection - Leigh

    March 21st - Bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders - patriciahurtado

    March 25th - Bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders - 3mom

    March 27th - Mastectomy with axillary node dissection - Lou4of7

    March 27th - Mastectomy (Right); Prophylactic Mastectomy (Left); Reconstruction: Tissue expander placement (Both) - MauiGirl

    March 28th - Bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders and sentinal node biopsies - Carrie6466

    March 28th - Bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders and lymph node dissection - Shari

    March 28th - Right skin sparing mastectomy and lymph node dissection - TinaHoff

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  • TLR
    TLR Member Posts: 55
    edited March 2013

    I got my pathology report. DCIS 4.1 cm, IDC 1.2, nodes negative. They ordered the oncotype yesterday and I will be seeing oncology when that comes back. My breast surgeon said she doubts I will need chemo. She said I made the right choice having the mastectomy because of the size. She also said they stage based on the invasive component and since it is less than 2cm and negative nodes, I am at stage 1. Does the total tumor load ever factor in on chemo? Guess I am a little confused on this part of the report??

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  • Maureen1
    Maureen1 Member Posts: 614
    edited March 2013

    Tracey...congratulations on the negative nodes and low stage - good news!! I'm not sure about the impact of tumor load/size on the chemo decision but I'm sure someone will know. My IDC was about the same size but I had positive nodes so I think that is what led to the chemo decision for me.

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  • Kayrem
    Kayrem Member Posts: 164
    edited March 2013

    Hi everyone



    Yah!!! I am done (i am So done with all this crap!!!). Well surgery was not bad. And the pain has not been bad. THey would ony give me one half dose of morphine in hosp. because of some blood pressure/fainting issues - but I did not need the morphine anyways! Pain was controlled well with T3's! Came home today with 2 drains (2 were removed earlier today. Yah!!!). I have slept and ate really well and I am not in too much pain. Not too bad for me but glad that I NEVER have to repeat this again! I hope everyone else is feeling better or starts to real soon!



    For all of you waiting...I think the anticipation of it was the worst. I did not get reconstruction and it does not look as bad as I thought it would. Definitely worse frame of mind pre surgery versus post. My thoughts are with all of you waiting and those of you recovering. This is my second surgery (first was June 2011). It totally gets better and you will get back to your new "normal" in no time. Take care all. Karen

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  • Kayrem
    Kayrem Member Posts: 164
    edited March 2013

    LuvinMyLife - I was triple negative, node positive and apparently BRCA 1 positive (found out 2 months ago)! It has been almost 2 years later and I am still here and after I was done all my treatments in jan 2012 I had a really great year! I appreciate every good day that I have (which are many) and I allow myself a few wacky mental days as required (but they are fewer now).

    Do whatever you need to to get through the next few months...all of you get through the next few months and things will be so much better! Take care everyone and thanks for your support and good thoughts as I went through my procedure!

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  • Gardengirl33
    Gardengirl33 Member Posts: 65
    edited March 2013

    Good morning friends...

    It is. 7:00 a.m. In Ohio I'm awake, not unusual to be awake at this time.

    However I'm awake and thinking about upcoming surgery.

    When I sat down to write I was starting to feel a bit ready to cry, my tummy was going all icky on me.

    Funny those feeling are subsiding, because I know as soon as someone reads this they will have wonderful, insightful advice and reassurance to give myself, Pattysmiles and Koru.

    It just touches me that so many friends here, that I've never met can give me words of encouragement better than a close friend or loved one can give me. I know it's because you all have gone through this and truly know how I feel, sometimes even when I don't admit exactly how scared or nervous I am.

    Ok, almost cried again, it is so overwhelming at times knowing so many people care.

    I'm a giver, it's hard to take, take anything from anyone, especially love.

    I'm finding out my friends here at home are more than good friends. They're amazing friends!

    Kat, Carey, Lisa and Chrissy all planning one night next week to bring me dinner and keep me company. Jason works 2 shift and it will be nice to have my besties here. They will be here to make me smile. I will be silly and make them laugh, that's what I do! That make me happy!

    I'm already thinking of wearing a plastic set of Halloween boobs on my head Monday morning when I arrive for surgery! " Doc, you gotta help me here, it seems I've got boobs on my mind all the time."





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  • kap
    kap Member Posts: 73
    edited March 2013

    Garden girl,

    We all felt that way before our surgeries. Scared, nervous, sick to our stomachs, yet anxious to have it done. You will feel so much better tomorrow afternoon. I think the relief of having it behind us (and of course the pain meds) makes everything seem so much better. We will all anxiously wait to hear how things went and will be here for you through recovery.



    To all of tomorrow's surgery sisters...we are here for you. You are strong women. Stronger than you think. Good luck tomorrow. Know we will be thinking of you.

    Karrie

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  • mamasixtaz
    mamasixtaz Member Posts: 319
    edited March 2013

    GardenGirl-Feeling the same things as Ive been up early too, hard to sleep these last few weeks(months). I will be right behind you on Tues morning. BIG time anxious as I know the bmx with Lat flap is an 8hr surgery with a 4 Day stay! Overwhelming doesnt even cover what Im feeling. My dh is still not coping well but my son and I cleaned up his computer room and it will be better for him as it is a safe place for him to escape. My kids all came over last night and I gave them the sched for dad and his care while Im in hospital, they will do great. Then last week my youngest has a cyst on his arm that needs surgery, so they are going to get it done while Im in the hospital as he will be on spring break! It just never ends...cant wait to get it behind us! Will be watching for your posts after you are done!

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  • dede707
    dede707 Member Posts: 48
    edited March 2013

    Gardengirl, 

    I wish you well tomorrow. It sounds like your sense of humor will carry you through. I wish you serenity as you try to sleep tonight. The post anxiety is troublesome, but post surgery will be doable and positive. Remember you are doing whatever it takes to slay this beast. I am 10 days out and finally starting to feel stronger, my emotions are kicking in because I need to face chemo soon. But another step toward being healthy and cancer free. Enjoy you day. Give hugs and receive hugs. Here is a virtual hug for you, 

    Dede707  (Denise)

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  • dede707
    dede707 Member Posts: 48
    edited March 2013

    Hi March sisters and Happy St. Patrick's Day, 

    It is day 10 post surgery for me and I am feeling stronger each day. Walking and doing something every day has helped. I am slowly weaning from pain pills. I am tired of feeling fuzzy and it more sore pain then any griping pain. How is everyone's pain level? Are you ladies supplementing with Tylenol or ibup? I also had a question about the te, what is it feeling like for you? Mine feels like a piece of cardboard that is malleable? It is weird. My drain came out on day 5 and from day 6-8, a bit of fluid built up and made my TE and whole mound feel painful and full. My ps told me to lay flat as much as possible until I see him until the 25 so the fluid will dissipate, does that sound right? I am sick of laying flat.   Lastly, I have been in a surly mood- I did some research, check out the chemo boards, and my triple + dx and I'm pissed and scared of what is ahead. At home, my children want me back, my parents (god bless them) are driving me crazy, and my dh is trying his best to make it all peaceful. Sorry, a bit of a rant. I think of you all every day. I send you all healing thoughts. How is everyone doing?  much love Denise

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  • Maureen1
    Maureen1 Member Posts: 614
    edited March 2013

    Happy St. Patrick's Day, as my wonderful Irish family members often said..."may the road rise to meet you and may God hold you in palm of his hand today"...

    (((Karen/karyem))) welcome back - so glad surgery is behind you and recovery is going well...YES! I agree with you, we never have to do this again so the pain is/was worth it for me:) LOL - like your new term for my mental state... the "wacky mental days" that describes it hahaha- I have my share of those...

    (((Gardengirl33 and mamasixtaz)))...wish I could fast forward you thru these presurgery days...I KNOW how you feel...I was between tears and fears...I just wanted any excuse to say "to heck with this" and walk away but I knew I "had" to do it, I just didn't know if I "could" do it. Gardengirl - LOVE the "boobs on my mind" idea, you have not lost your sense of humor - I'd love to be on your surgery crew:) Mamasixtaz...what awesome kids you have, stepping up to help mom, dad and each other - you must be so very proud of them:)

    (((Koru and Pattysmiles))) haven't heard from you today but know you must be so very busy getting ready for tomorrow - hope you are doing okay today...

    We're here for all of you...and we'll be with you when you roll into surgery waiting for you to join us as post op sisters!

    (((Denise))) yea...still feeling pain but it's mainly the burning under the arm pit and the "tightness" which I think is due to the implants forcing the muscles to stretch quickly so I'm still taking Tylenol 3's but spacing them out more. When do you find out about chemo? I know I've mentioned it before so forgive me for repeating myself but...I was terrified of chemo and never thought I could do it but, just like the surgery I made it thru...my team was great and it wasn't as bad as I feared - the side effects were well managed with the meds they gave me...

    Sunny Sunday morning (((Hugs))) and healing thoughts to everyone...Maureen

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  • Shari0707
    Shari0707 Member Posts: 448
    edited March 2013

    Gettjng nervous for surgery but so antsy for it to happen and move forward

    So trying not to worry to much bc if anything tumor has got to b smaller than it was bc I did chemo.. Just worried about implications if path report is still bad AFTER chemo.. Does that mean more chemo, or rads, or will the hormone meds be enough to keep cancer at bay after all thus? No sense I worrying until then but there is so much to think about.. What if there's a lot if cancer left and a lot of nodes still positive.. Never knew how many were involved In first place and supposedly don't look to suspicious according to radiologist but I know path report is the only definitive answer.. I guess I am worried bc I already did the chemo.. What if it didnt work enough? Is it true that hormones are more important to us hormonal positive gals?sorry I am going off again... I will stop .. Just thinking aloud... Thanks For lending an ear gals.. Stopping my thoughts One more thing... Tazzy.. I know u did chemo first.. Did I gave any breast pain on between chemo and surgery. Making me worry its growing again haha.. Tell me I am being silly

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  • Cuetang
    Cuetang Member Posts: 575
    edited March 2013

    Like Maureen has said, I too could wish we could fast forward the days before surgery and all the anxiety associated with it. Hang in there, you will feel so much better after surgery (I know, so weird right considering they are big surgeries and all). 9 days post op, I'm in a better place than the days before surgery (despite all the surgery incisions and the pesky last drain).



    Mamasixtaz-- I had the DIEP flap surgery and ended up being at least 12 hours. Hilarious part of things was that they stuck a big butt cushion on my rear end to account for the long surgery time. I was also told 4-5 days in the hospital but ended up staying 3. Sounds like you have a great support system and you'll totally rock the surgery! :)



    Shari-- You're definitely not being silly, BC really messes with all of our minds. We just have to know that we did all the research that we could do and gave the cancer all we had. After surgery, you'll feel so much better, for sure!

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  • Lin43
    Lin43 Member Posts: 108
    edited March 2013

    To All of you wonderful women who are taking this March journey with me --

    Did you ever believe that you could feel so many emotions tumbling one after another after another? Tears and laughter, thankfulness and anger, love and hate, fear and strength... As the months since my initial diagnosis have passed, I have really learned to accept that all these emotions are valid and a necessary part of the healing process so I am trying to go gentle on myself. And when I get really stressed, I listen to one of the meditations I have downloaded onto my phone. Friends and family have shown their love in so many ways. My fridge is full of food, my tables are full of flowers, my tummy is full of chocolates, and my heart is full of love.

    Peace to all of you awaiting surgery. The anticipation is the hardest part! Keep on top of your pain meds afterward and you will be ok.



    Maureen--Thanks for sharing that you had to increase your pain meds the last couple of days before the drains came out. I had been seriously decreasing my meds until Friday when the drain pain really reared up again. I will be ready for some channel burning after removal. Just knowing that each day is one step closer to healing gives me a smile.







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  • Koru_
    Koru_ Member Posts: 15
    edited March 2013

    Gardengirl - LOVE your sense of humor!  I think that's awesome.

    I had mentioned in my previous post about the 3 hour "prep" time being analagous to Dorothy getting ready to go see the Wizard in the Wizard of Oz.  I mentioned in my personal blog today that the surgery doesn't freak me out as much as then anesthesia.  I have these irrational fears around it.  I would prefer they just give some nice happy drug and do the surgery under a local.  (13 years ago I tried to convince my orthopedic surgeon to do my ACL reconstruction while giving me an epidural.)  Anyway, back to the Wizard of Oz.......I was thinking I might ask the anesthesiologist if he brought any poppies into the OR with snow as a back up for wakey-wakey time!

    It has been really great to read how you all say that we're going through the worst of it now; that post-surgery really is so much better.  I feel much encouraged by your words!

    The municipality that I work for puts on a St. Patrick's Day Festival each year and I do a lot of the coordinating of the event - I didn't want to miss out getting all the vendors checked in and settled in and the festival started.  I'm glad I went.  I kept pretty busy today and now that evening time is hear I find myself a little weepy and feeling a little sorry for myself.  I know you all understand.  I'm not one to suffer a pity party for myself for too long - so I'll be off in search of a feel-good chick flick and out of the pity party in two shakes of a lamb's tail.

    I will be thinking of you, Gardengirl and pattysmiles as I head to the hospital tomorrow.  Mamasixtaz - I will keep you in my prayers for Tuesday.

    I'm grateful for this virtual world; yet I wish there was a retreat center where we could meet and celebrate on the other side of this!

    Feel my arms around each of you ladies; for all your wisdom, your transparency in sharing, your devotion and dedication to our virtual community and most especially for the beauty that each of you are individually.

    Much love,

    ~Koru

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  • marianelizabeth
    marianelizabeth Member Posts: 1,735
    edited March 2013

    Pattismiles, gardengirl and Koru, we will all be thinking of you. I am 12 days out now and it gets easier every day. I actually managed my usual 5 k walk today with bald eagles overhead and the sun out. Still 1 drain so no shower yet but I really don't mind. Finally seem to have lost the nausea!

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  • jk6
    jk6 Member Posts: 10
    edited March 2013

    I've been home for a week already and feeling very good.  Surgery was 3/8 (Friday) and got to stay in hospital till Sunday.  Have my daughter with me and she's taking wonderful care of me.  

    I saw the plastic surgeon on Tuesday and he is allowing me to shower as long as my daughter can MacGyver something to cover the drain sites. It felt wonderful.  We have a 2nd shower scheduled for tomorrow.

    I go back to him on Tuesday and he thinks he may remove 2 of the 4 drains.  I'm hoping the following week the other 2 will be removed. There was more internal radiation damage to the right breast than he expected so might not get to a full C but we shall see.

    I saw the medical oncologist and he's running tests on the tissue they removed and hopefully in 2 weeks we'll have the results. Originally he said no chemo but since seeing him this past week I'm kind of getting the impression that I will have chemo. I'm OK with having to have it again.  I had it in the past (1995) and was cancer free till January of this year. 

    I did have problems with the pain medication. It stopped working since I was only allowed 6 pain pills per day so to get through the day I was only taking 1 every 5 hours. It had been prescribed by the surgical oncologist. He had me on Vicoden 1-2 every 4-6 hours with a maximum of 6 per day. The plastic surgeon now has me on Percocet and have been allowed the limit of 10 per day.  I can also take Motrin in between.  It took us a few days to get back on track but now I feel uncomfortable (the compression bra is really annoying) but not in pain. He's told me he's looking for 0% pain and I should call him day or night if this pain medication doesn't work.

    My daugher is leaving a week from Monday but my Mom is coming Friday to stay with me for 2 week.  I am so blessed that my daughter was able to come. Her mother in law has my 3 grand daughters with her for the time my daughter is here. They are ages 4, 3 and the little one will be 2 in September. What a blessing Irma has been in taking the girls. 

    I enjoyed a wonderful spaghetti casserole made by a co-worker tonight for dinner. My best friend who I work with has coordinated with friends I work with and every other day she brings me a dinner. Since my daughter loves to cook we've frozen the dinners for when my mom is here but that spaghetti casserole was calling my name. We only cooked 1/2 and other other 1/2 is in the freezer. Boy was it great.

    Glad that I'm feeling better so quickly but I do need to remember to not overdo. I think that's why I slept most of the day today. 

    Sending good thoughts and prayers for those who are recovering and those who are anxiously awaiting their surgery.

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  • printpal
    printpal Member Posts: 14
    edited March 2013

    Hi March ladies!!



    I'm back from my surgery on 3/13. I was in the hospital 2 nights, and even though I have 2 surgery sites (back and front) and what appears to be a 3rd boob under my armpit due to all of the swelling I would say this has been a little easier for me that my original MX. Last time the single tube wasn't taped down, so every time I moved it was agony. This time EVERYTHING is taped down with giant sheets of clear tape, including a tube under my sports bra and one that comes out near my natural waistline. I've also learned to sleep very propped up, getting into bed with my butt practically against the pillows so I don't have to lie back so far. I'm limiting the vidodin to bedtime, because I am so super sensitive to constipation, and that was such a problem last time. I've taken a couple of extra strength tylenol here and there, but everything is more of a can't get comfortable feeling, rather than actual pain. I go back to the dr tomorrow morning and hope to get one drain out, the output has really dropped today and is more plasma that reddish stuff. My roommate in the hospital was my age and had a tumor on her thyroid, so she had a lot of throat pain. She coughed a lot and every cough was like knives so I felt really bad for her.



    Kind of a funny story, the second night we're there a very old CNA drags a chair into our room (it's a 4 bed room with 3 beds and only 2 people, so lots of space) at around 4am, and just kind of hid out until 5 am. She was so tired and old we both felt sorry for her and told her what to do each step of the way when she came back at 6 to do our rounds. She tried to take my temp after she watched me take a cold drink, and put all of 1" of the thermometer in my mouth, then couldn't figure out why she wasn't getting a reading. I paid my way through college being a CNA at a convalescent home way back in the day, so it was pretty cool to talk her through vitals. Amazing how it all comes back, even 30 years later!



    Lots of strength and encouragement for the ladies still waiting for surgery, and hugs all around to all of us getting through this!



    Shelley

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  • Maureen1
    Maureen1 Member Posts: 614
    edited March 2013

    Welcome back (((Shelley))) good to "see" you and hear you're home from the hospital:) I'll keep my fingers crossed that the pull one of those drains for you tomorow...

    Marian - Wow, I am so impressed...you were able to do a 5k walk today and you still have a drain! I thought I was doing good to get in a half mile veryyyyyy slow stroll LOL:) So glad to hear the nausea is getting better....

    Jk6/Janice...sounds like you are surrounded by some wonderful family and friends:)

    (((Koru, Gardengirl, Pattysmiles))) healing (((hugs))) and prayers, we're with you...

    Thinking of all of my surgery sisters tonite and wishing you the best...(((Hugs))) Maureen

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  • mamasixtaz
    mamasixtaz Member Posts: 319
    edited March 2013

    Shelley-so glad to hear your lat flap went so well.  Glad the pain was so well controlled for you.  I am anxiously awaiting my bmx with lat flap recon all at the same time!  Once I hope and done, if ps can put the implants in directly, but may have te's then exchange surgery later.  One more day of waiting!  Cleaning closets, and drawers have occupied me today.  Ran some errands to get medications ahead of time. Tomorrow will pack for surgery and get dh to dialysis center, first time in almost 2 years.  He isn't looking forward to it but will have to do it while I am in the hospital and several weeks as I recover.  Well, nervously rambling on, thinking of the surgery sisters going in tomorrow, Koru, GardenGirl, Pattysmiles wishing you healing thoughts and ((HUGS!)).  Will be following right behind you!

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  • Maureen1
    Maureen1 Member Posts: 614
    edited March 2013

    (((mamasixtaz))) thinking of you today as you prepare for surgery tomorrow...Take care of yourself, you do so much for everyone else, hope you find time to do something for yourself today...take a quiet walk, watch an old movie that you like, go to lunch with someone who's a good listener? (((Hugs))) Maureen

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  • mamasixtaz
    mamasixtaz Member Posts: 319
    edited March 2013

    Thanks Maureen for all your support past present and future! You have kept us together and centered even while you have been dealing with this beast. I will take your advice. When I get dh settled I am going to bath& body for some thankyou gifts and my own "gifts". Will go home and treat myself to a candle scented, perfumed bubble bath! Knowing it will be awhile for bathing will enjoy it! I will then shower with my antiseptic soap and go to bed with my Ativan! Something to look forwad to after the last min chores today. Hope all are healing and resting well today. ((HUGS)) to all!

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  • LKSHER
    LKSHER Member Posts: 209
    edited March 2013

    Hi, everyone. I got the pathology from my surgery today. On the left, I have 6 positive nodes out of 13. Biggest one was 1.7cm and it was spilling out. My tumor was 3cm. It is now a grade 2. Lymphatic invasion was there. It was tiny IDCon my right breast with no node involvement. Everything is still strongly ER/PR positive.



    Surgery was rough for me, but I am healing okay.



    I just found out about the pathology and although, I am not surprised, I am feeling very down and scared again. So afraid for my kids who were upset all week to stay with friends and missed me so much. I have no idea what to do to feel less bleak right now.

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  • Maureen1
    Maureen1 Member Posts: 614
    edited March 2013

    Mamasixtaz - Great plan...ahhh, nothing like a scented bubble bath to soothe the soul and some Ativan to calm the nerves...enjoy! 

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  • Maureen1
    Maureen1 Member Posts: 614
    edited March 2013

    (((LKSHER)))...sending you my support and warm (((hugs))) today...hang in there, you have taken a major step in battling this beast with surgery so first order of business is to heal and recover from surgery...I was shocked and afraid when they told me my nodes were positive too it is NOT what any of us want to hear but like you my tumor was ER+ HER2- so there are good drugs to fight it...and at least it is OUT of your body - you and your surgeon have kicked the beast out and now you can start the "chemical warfare" battle! That's how I looked at chemo - if that's what is recommended for you. The routine I did was what the oncologist described as the "toughest, most intense regimen, reserved for the youngest and healthiest" - I thought, hmmm, maybe all those years of taking care of my body didn't do me any favors if it meant the chemo was going to be harder, hahaha but with all the meds to fight the side effects the chemo drugs were tolerable -  and today I've just started yet another chemo agent, the Aromatase Inhibitor, Aromasin, to continue the battle so we'll see where that one takes me. The important thing for me is to love and appreciate every day as a survivor - hug the kids, appreciate the "little" things like a sunny day in Michigan - YAAY (it's not snowing LOL) You have family who love you and lots of us here with you, you're not alone...(((Hugs))) and prayers, Maureen

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