Anyone from Calgary or area?

ChristineT

Hi Everyone

I was wanting to connect with anyone undergoing or finishing treatment in the Calgary area

avmom

Hi Christine,

I'm in the Calgary area, and had my second mastectomy on October 20, so I'm basically finished with active treatment. I'm still going to appointments at the TBCC, as follow up and to review whether hormone treatment will be considered, and I go to the oncology rehabilitation clinic to deal with mild lymphedema. I didn't do radiation therapy, but it looks like that's what you are doing right now. How are things going?

avmom

Hi Christine,

I'm in the Calgary area, and had my second mastectomy on October 20, so I'm basically finished with active treatment. I'm still going to appointments at the TBCC, as follow up and to review whether hormone treatment will be considered, and I go to the oncology rehabilitation clinic to deal with mild lymphedema. I didn't do radiation therapy, but it looks like that's what you are doing right now. How are things going?

ChristineT

Hi Avmom

I just finished radiation and I have my first follow up mid January. I had a partial mastectomy so I will need a minor reconstruction surgery next year. I'm just starting to get my energy back. How are you feeling?

avmom

Hi Christine,


I'm generally starting to feel a bit better. I had dose dense chemotherapy between March and June, and am still dealing with some side effects, including fatigue, that have been somewhat worse since my second mastectomy on October 20. I did lose my hair in March, but have got about 3/4 inch of new growth now. 2015 has been a tough year.
Yesterday was vaccination day for me - pneumococcal pneumonia, flu and shingles. My MO suggested that my blood counts were good to go for vaccinations, and I understand that shingles after chemotherapy isn't uncommon, so I'm glad to have them done. Had two vaccinations in my left (non-lymphedema) arm, and it is quite sore today, and I've got some flulike symptoms this morning. I've started to go into work as of last week, but I'm totally wiped out by noon. I sleep for part of the afternoon most days, but it is getting better. I expect that will resolve itself over the next little while. I've started working with a trainer to get my activity level up without aggravating my lymphedema, and more activity equals more energy.
Do you have any sort of timetable for your reconstruction? I'll probably be going back to see my reconstructive surgeon in the spring with a view to starting the process, but your reconstruction shouldn't be too complicated, or take too long, though it might take a while for your breast to recover from radiation before you can tolerate reconstruction.

Have a great day.

ChristineT

I see the Oncologist in Jan for a follow up. I was told 6 months later than they can look at reconstruction. Yes mine won't be complicated at all day surgery.

You've had quite the year. I hope you get some energy back and feel better!

Have a good weekend

70charger

Can I ask who your surgeons were? Thanks

ChristineT

My surgeon was Dr. Rothwell and my Oncologists are Dr. Martell and Dr. Nordal

Hopefloatsinyyc

old post but bumping up since I am new here and from Calgary... just starting the journey.

ChristineT

How are you doing hopefloatsinyyc

70charger

Hi Hopefloats! Sorry we have to meet this way. Have u started your chemo yet? Hope it is smooth going for you.

Christine T see u just had a 1 yr cancerversary! Hope you did a big celebration.

Terrywithawhy

Hi, I am also in Calgary. Start radiation (16 treatments) next week

70charger

Hey Terry! Rads are so easy compared to chemo, u will have no worries. Good Luck! huggers Fran

Hopefloatsinyyc

Haven't started chemo yet- had my BMX with immediate implant reconstruction last week. Meeting back with the BS on Monday for my first onco post-op. (My PS was happy Wednesday with my healing progress, drains pulled etc.)

I hate we are all here- but appreciate there are at least a couple of us going through it at the same time to lean on....BC is such a lonely place

CA0817

Hi! This is my first post also from Calgary. Starting chemo on Nov

ChristineT

Hi CA0817

How are you doing

Joyseeker

signing in from Medicine Hat. Looks like I’ll be visiting Calgary at the end of the month for Rads.

AER

Hi,

First time posting. Anyone here from Calgary that underwent reconstruction with TE's to implants? Had my swap surgery March 25, 2019. My chest looks a "Frankenstein's Nightmare"!! WTH!!!

Sure could use some sage advice.

Thank you.