Jan 2008--Ain't it Great?

JulieK_11_30_07 · November 2008

Hi Jewels -- not much time, but I want to do some quick shout-outs.

Carol - I hope you have a fabulous vacation and enjoy that warm weather in AZ! Have a "rita" for me while you're there! Hope your chest starts feeling better soon enough for you to get some swings in before you head home!

I vaguely remember reading that you mentioned mid-late June for a Jewel get-together -- that timeframe works for my calendar!! Actually, I won't be planning much until we have some dates figured out, then I'll plan other things around it. Laughing

Kimberly - thinking of you and Kathleen - let us know how the tests turn out.

Kris - FUBC, indeed!!!! (and, D1, no offense taken here!!!!!) You are in my thoughts and prayers and extra special vibes are being sent your way that everything comes out okay.

Dana - glad you had a good time on your cruise - I've never been on one and have always thought I'd enjoy one. Hang in there with your feelings about your dad - it's so difficult to lose a parent and the next few months will be difficult for you. In the almost 20 years since I lost my mom (I was 20 when she died) I can't even begin to count the number of times I've nearly grabbed the phone to call her. Best of luck on your studying for your exam -- I'm sure you'll do great!!

Paula - I'm hoping Ed's had some good days this week. You're both in my thoughts and prayers.

Sorry for those I missed -- need to get movin' -- this is longer than I intended already. Hope to check in and catch up with everything soon.

Jules

Cathy-CA · November 2008

I received a package from my secret pal today that contained all sorts of goodies and a cookbook that looks like it has yummy recipes. I can hardly wait to try a few. I have two different potlucks in early December, so I'll get a chance soon. Thank you, SP!

Have any of you had Bioelectric Impedance Analysis for lymphedema? It's a machine that's kind of like an EKG. They put a couple strips on you, hook it up and the current measures the amount of fluid in your tissue. Anyway, my surgeon just got one so is testing everyone. It's supposedly more accurate that just measuring the circumference of your arm in several places.

Tomorrow morning I leave at 4:15 for my walk. We have to be there between 5:30 and 6. It's less than an hour to get there, but I want to make sure we don't run into problems. DH is taking tomorrow off to take me and then going fishing.

Dana -- glad you enjoyed your cruise and I know what you mean about needing a vacation from your vacation. There's always so much to do on a cruise ship that you can stay very busy. We're all pulling for you to ace those exams. You are going to make a terrific nurse!

Carol -- have a great time playing golf and visiting with Ginny. Like Julie, I'll make plans around whatever date works for the other Jewels.

Kris -- I hope all comes out okay. I think of all the false positives from MRIs and scans and question whether the benefit is worth the agony. That's why I put off the MRI my surgeon ordered until December. I didn't want it interfering with the walk or Thanksgiving.

wvgirl · November 2008

Hi Jewels,

Awaiting a winter storm tonight. We are expected to receive 6 to 8 inches of more snow. Yeck!!

I saw my rad doc yesterday I don't have to see him for a year now. Yea

I have us of thyroid for Dec 1 see my onc Dec 10 The waiting is the hardest part

Kris keeping Fingers Crossed your in my prayers and D1 said is right not offended here at all I was joking about my tattoo and said I should get FUBC on my 1 bab boob.

Dana-Sorry to hear about your dad glad your cruise was nice.

Carol have a great vaca

Kimberly My info is on its way to you

Better let collage girl have her puter back

Night Carla

golfer779 · November 2008

Laying here this eve and wanted to pass on some positive spirit to Cathy for a 60 mile walk of a lifetime. I can't wait to hear about your experience, and I can only hope you have half as much fun as I did. The emotional highs we're phenominal !!!

Day one of "cation" was awesome, weather in the low 80's, great friends, food and of course libations. Golfing early Fri morning, pool time after that. My water boob is anxious to get out of her box!!!

Happy Friday to all ... Carol

I've got a long ways to go to type on my phone ... I'm amazed how fast the kids can text.

kris60 · November 2008

no offense taken D heehee. Call me extreme, overcautious whatever but I'm electing to get lefty removed, and they can pathology the whole thing. I didn't want to do a biopsy and be told it was nothing, then go back a few months later for a follow up and possibly have to get another biopsy etc....It would drive me insane.

I feel I can handle anything if it's in front of me and not some unknown. I go in the 5th of Dec. then a couple weeks wait on the results. Not to mention there's always the possibility that the 'area in question' could be missed with a biopsy, so this way there will be no doubts.

If it's not, I won't have any regrets. Everyone keeps asking me are you ok? and I'm like yeah, I'm not the boo hoo why me type, I'm the WTF type Tongue out I'm more pissed off than anything. So lunch is over time to head out...Happy Friday!!!!!

Kris

Determined1 · November 2008

So it's the weekend!

First off, I want to acknowledge how positive Kris is being. It makes me happy to see you making an informed decision for yourself and taking action. I hope I can handle the next hurdle that comes my way with your WTF attitude. You go, girl!

Secondly, CathyCA, you must think I'm a complete dolt. For some reason, I thought your 3 day was LAST weekend! And I'm sitting here, waiting for the report. So, enjoy your walk and allow yourself to celebrate that you're walking a 3day this year, rather than what you were doing last year. You've come a long way, baby.

(I don't know about the Bioelectric Impedance Analysis-have to tried posting the question over on the Lymphedema discussion? There are a couple of women there who seem to have heard of everything...)

It sounds like you guys are getting a lot of snow, Carla. Hope you're prepared for it. You, too, sound like you have a game plan for your upcoming tests (the snow better melt so you can get to your appointments w/o hassle!). Fingers are crossed that everything will be okay.

Shouts to Carol on her cation! I hope your golf swing is unaffected by the port removal (or if you completely suck, blame it on your de-porting), and that you get that water boob out for a swim! Continue to enjoy and libate! (Is that a word???)

I have a question for anyone who has done therapy. I went for a consult with the LCSW and came away feeling like I hadn't accomplished anything. I mean, I laid out my issues and asked her suggestions on how to ameliorate them and she had nothing for me. She pretty much said she's a safe place to talk things out (which is good for me, since I've had this stuff bottled up for years, but I want resolution!). Am I expecting too much from this? Does one get resolution by going to therapy? Should I shop around-or do you have to give it a chance to be effective? Sorry so many questions, but I'm thinking electro-shock therapy might be a better answer for me...

Anyhoo, I want to move my laundry around before I head out to pick up my dd from school (she couldn't get up early enough to drive herself today, poor baby).

Happy Friday, everyone!

D1

LilWarrior · November 2008

Hello Ladies,

Just checking in. I sure cant wait till I officially pass this board exam and become a Nurse. I am in boot camp class for 3 days, and so many Nurses have the test and are taking the boot camp now. Its so scary to me, but I know failure is wisdom - and you have to brush yourself off and try again. I was talking to the RN that teaches the class and she told me to eat less protein for my Liver Cancer which is still 1 cm, and drink lots of grape juice and distilled water and she really thinks it will not grow anymore. She says many people have lived 20 years with liver cancer from breast. I pray I am one of them. .

How is everyone, I dont have time to catch up with everyone but I truly miss you all. I will try to check in daily so I can get back in the groove with you all.

God bless and love ya,

Dana

Cathy-CA · November 2008

One of the joys of "camping" in a hotel is internet access! I have been told that the San Diego walk has the best community support, so I'm not sure if Carol was lucky enough to experience what I'm experiencing, but it's unbelievable. As you walk through neighborhoods, people have tables set up with lemonade, candy, cookies, water (some even beer) to hand out to walkers. Business have signs and balloons up and are handing out various things. Daisy Scout troops are along the path handing out candy. And, so many people thank you for walking you just feel incredibly appreciated. News vans followed us throughout the day and I did catch one story on TV a bit ago.

The opening ceremony was emotional because it made me think of everything we've gone through this year and how lucky we Jewels are to be survivors. You look at all the people with their T-shirts, banners, and hats in memory of people who have died from this disease and it's overwhelming. I've taked with mothers walking with teenage daughters, sorority girls from the local colleges, women many years older than I who are repeat walkers and it's very inspiring. I'm tired, but looking forward to tomorrow.

RN2teach · November 2008

We had our second snow day of the week today (very unusual this early in the season). We only have about 4 inches of snow, but quite a bit of ice and temps below freezing. We have lots of curvy roads and hollows here to increase the hazard level. Our "holler" is an icy mess.

Carla- are you snowed in up in Mo-town? Stay warm and safe!

D1 and Norma- I used some of my "free day" to work with ds on his scholarship essays.There's a scholarship for children of parents affected by BC (awards up to $2,000 renewable). Here's the link: http://www.maryellenlocherfoundation.org/

D1- I'm not an expert by any means, but I believe that your counseling experience is typical. If you like the person you're seeing, give it a go and see what happens. Like you said, those feelings need some air-time.

So, you're no longer a yoga virgin, eh? I've been doing a beginner's yoga routine here at home, but going to a class would be much more fun, I think.

LJ- OK, you lost me with lossless compression... but on the positive side, I googled the unfamiliar terms and educated myself. You're a true audiophile, girl!

Kimberly- You and Kathleen have been on my mind this week. I have your port removal noted for Nov. 26 and Kath's surgery for Dec. 4^th. Is that right?

What?! It's time for another SP swap already? How time flies...

Carol- hope you're enjoying your ‘cation! Wish I were there, too- our temps are in the ‘teens tonight.

Kris- yikes! Those areas of concern are a PITA. I like your attitude. Thinking of you...

CHJ- wishing you all good news Monday when you see your surgeon!

Dana- when do you take your board exam? I'm praying for your success.

Julie- thanks for keeping the Jewels reunion in our minds. I don't get out of school until June 10^th (maybe later if we have a lot of snow days) and will be taking my students to a conference in Nashville from June 23-27. So who is going to plan this grand soiree for us?

CathyCA- Ah! So, you're all cozy in your room after your first 20 miles. I loved reading your report-- it sounds like a wonderful experience. Best wishes to you and your team!

Ed had his MRI this afternoon. We'll pick the CD up and travel to Duke Monday. Praying for some beautiful tumor-free images-- if you'll remember, he was down to one distinct tumor 2 months ago. These drugs are kicking his butt physically, so let's hope they're wiping out this last tumor as well!

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

golfer779 · November 2008

Cathy ... Looked tonight just to see if you might have been on-line... You go gal ... I am so with you on your journey. It took nothing more than my friend Ginny to turn around during the opening ceremonies and give me a big hug to have me totally lose it, that would be lose it in a good way but totally a good tear jerker!

Kris, my thoughts are with you, and.totally supportive to your current heavy decisions. Be strong my friend.

Carol

golfer779 · November 2008

Paula, I must have been trying to manipulate my clumbsy thumbs, as u posted.

I guess I better not complain about the wind here today when reading about your weather.

So figured I throw out a timeframe for a get-together, after chatting with D1, she reminded of graduations in the last part of June.

Okay... We're now to the first week of July, are we not ???

All for now, I'm sitting here with the dh and friends ... Guess I'm not into the movie we're watching!!

Again, just me ... Carol

wvgirl · November 2008

Good Sunday Afternoon-

The Big Storm Missed Us !!!!!! Yea !!!!

Carol- July Sounds Good to me

Paula- Praying for good results for Ed

Kris-Keeping you in my prayers girl

Kimberly Best wishes for your port removal 11/26 Hey thats my cancerversory day

Best wishes to your sis Kat

My support group is planning on a Chineese gift exchange for our Dec meeting It will be lots of

fun.

Well better go for now and finish up the laundry

Carla

golfer779 · November 2008

Hi ... Late night Sun

Cathy, was thinking of you tonight. Assuming you have some slightly tender feet and legs but know you probably finished in strong fashion.

Hoping your experience was amazing, and looking forward to hearing all about it.

My dh and I are off to visit Ginny and hubby (my 3 day walking partner from WA) at her home down here in the valley of the sun tommorow. We we're off today to buy rain gear as the weather report is turning ugly for Thanksgiving forward. We plan on golfing rain or shine.

Hoping it was a quiet weekend on line as most of you we're enjoying a nice couple of days.

Night all ... Carol

Cathy-CA · November 2008

Surprisingly, I'm not tired or sore from the walk. I think all the training walks really helped work out the perfect combination of shoes, socks, fanny packs and such. I used aquaphor on my feet before putting on socks and that cut down on the friction that causes blisters. I had a ton of samples from rads, so put them to good use. Never liked the stuff on my boob, but it's great for the feet Laughing

I had decided to walk by myself on Sunday, so I could stop along the way and take pictures without slowing down the rest of the group. Even though I was doing that, I guess my natural pace is faster, because I ended up at the lunch stop so early they wouldn't let us leave for awhile (which also meant lunch was at 10:15 -- but that's another story). There was a cheering section a mile and a half from the closing ceremony, so I had dh meet me there and we sat around for a couple hours watching the other walkers and cheering them on. It gave him a good perspective on the walk and all the community support you receive. I made it to closing with lots of time to spare, so connected with some of my training partners, collected my survivor T-shirt and roses and bought some stuff at the 3-Day store.

I'm definitely ready to do this again next year! The San Diego walk raised more than $11 million and I think it's the biggest of the walks. Several were surprised to see me at aqua aerobics this morning because they thought I'd be too tired, but I feel great. I was already talking with them about fundraising ideas for 2009. I think given the tight economy, events may be a better way to go, so was discussing bridge tournaments and bunko parties.

Thanks for all the support, Jewels. I'm sure Carol agrees, we never would've even thought of doing something like this if not for all the great support we receive here.

If someone can remind which site I need to go to for posting pictures, I'll put some up.

SISKimberly · November 2008

Good Morning Jewels,

It’s Monday, and I’m home for Thanksgiving Break. WhooHoo!!! I’ve got Narratives to read, but I’ll do that after I check in here.

So, I’m still trying to get comfortable with my new normal. Part of me is just so frustrated that I don't feel the way I used to feel...physically, not emotionally (although it does have an emotional impact)...and the other part is trying to just embrace it for what it is...a transitioning...to what? Who knows...apparently to where and what I must transition to…Sigh

D1- The tickets are working slowly as kids start to see how they are used. One kid ran out of tickets and had to call home in front of everyone to report that he had broken the rules and didn’t have tickets to pay his penalty. Hopefully, other kids see that I’m serious and will endeavor to avoid that call by earning tickets.

So Kath’s PET came back clean, except for the tumor in the right breast as expected. Oh, Yeah!!!!!

How’s that Flexi machine treatin’ ya? Can you read while letting it do it’s thing? Talk on the phone? Or are you a prisoner?

I’m so proud of you for trying yoga and for making that call to a therapist! You cannot change anything but yourself, so it makes sense to start there, and then see if the dh will see and acknowledge the positive changes in you as they emerge and join you or not. Baby steps.

Heck NO! How can saying FUCK YOU BREAST CANCER be offensive? I’m with you at that one100%. How about BCSUKS for your plate?

I saw a pink ribbon magnet that said Save the TaTas. How great is that?

How’s the bathroom remodel going?

About your first appt: a therapist’s job isn’t to give you suggestions especially the first time out. A therapist’s job is to listen, figure out how you operate, and then guide you to finding your own answers. Be patient. Therapy is like peeling a onion…there are lots of layers…and there will be sessions that feel really good, and others where you’re not sure anything was accomplished, and then others where you feel like you’ve been emotionally beat up and have taken twelve steps backwards. It’s a process. Give it a chance.

You’ve said in the past that I should be a therapist. Well, I have a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology and led sessions-individual, family, and group for almost 2 years before I realized I couldn’t make a living…and I hated that once I got licensed dealing with the insurance company thing…giving people labels, a diagnosis, in order to get paid. I loved just talking to people and helping them find their way. I really want to be a school counselor, but with the budget cuts and all, hiring didn’t happen until a few years ago. I applied at our school, but I didn’t speak Spanish, and we have a big Spanish speaking population. Glad I didn’t get that job as I would have missed almost the entire second year, and the guy we hired is so great. Things happen for a reason. I’m on the Student Study Team though, and he’s always telling me how much he appreciates my input. We have a new middle school opening next Fall, so I’m hoping to apply and get that job. Maybe the population there won't have such a big Spanish speaking population. If it is meant to be, it will be.

Kris- Good for you not even doing the biopsy and just taking care of it now. I’m a bit surprised the docs agreed to take the left breast without a cancer dx on the left. Hoorah for your docs listening to your needs!!!!

I totally understand what you’re saying…just take away the potential problem before it starts. That’s why I just said do the double mastectomy now, and glad I did, the right breast had some ‘atypical’ cells.

You’ve got the right attitude. If it is a recurrence, you do know what to expect, and we will all be here for you!!! My sister’s surgery is on the fourth. I’ll be thinking of you on the fifth.

So, you served your time and came back as a civil servant. That’s a good gig, eh?

CHJ – I haven’t had any scans scheduled, only blood work. I guess since I have no breasts to monitor, they think blood work is all they can do, but I’d like to know the rest of me is doing well. I’m going to insist on a full body scan this summer, however. By then, it will have been a year and a half, and I want to know that there hasn’t been a recurrence anywhere else. An MRI can see bones and organs, right? Keep us posted on your results, which will be fine…you watch.

LW Dana- Welcome home. I’m glad you had some fun on the cruise.
Maybe your next vacation will be with people you really want to spend time with and fit your lifestyle more-no dressing for the Captain’s dinner and formal nights.

I know the boards are weighing on your mind, but you know how to study and prepare, it’s just finding the motivation through every thing you’re going through that will be the challenge.

I know that the loss of your Dad was awful for you, but what a gift you gave him taking care of him in the end. As far as the family, it is none of their business what your Dad left you. All you need to tell them is that the attorney has distributed your Dad’s estate as your Dad wanted it. Enough said. As far as your money, I agree that putting it in savings and not going ‘crazy’ spending it is the wisest choice. You will need that later to assist you in retirement, so live as you have been for now, get hired, and live on your new salary. Make sure you contribute to a retirement account through your work, too.

I’m sorry your ex’s daughter stole from you. Did you report that loss to the police? Good think you’ll be out of there soon. How much longer will you be there, do you think?

Take care, Dana. You’ve been given an opportunity with your dad’s gift to make some big changes in your life, and I know you’ll make even proud.

Carol – Well it’s past the weekend, did you get to golf? I’ll read on and see.

I hope you get to see your CMF friend while you’re there.

Where do you guys stay while in AZ? I know you’ve got one night at Ginny’s, but then what? Anything on the books besides drinking those rita’s and golfing? Ah, swimming…your water boob will be happy to finally get some use, eh? Hopefully she stays put in your suit and doesn’t try to go solo. Hee Hee

The first part of June might still work if graduations are at the end of the month for a get together, but otherwise July. I have plans to go to Ashland the end of June (my bday week) and then up to Washington to see relatives, and you and Kent. Mid-July after the 4th weekend would work…maybe we could meet somewhere near an ocean or on a lake, so it won’t be so hot. Lake Tahoe could be fun. People could fly into Reno. That’s an easy drive to Tahoe. There are some great hotels, or we could rent a house.

Julie- How are you? Are the remodeling ideas coming to fruition?

To all of you getting winter snow already, stay cozy warm inside or bundle up and take a romp outdoors. It’s about mid 60’s in Lincoln today. Crisp and cool. Took a long bike ride on Saturday. Nice.

Paula, you and Ed have been on my mind. If there is anything we Jewels can do to help out…be a shoulder, a cheerleader, etc…,
please let us know. My fingers and toes are crossed for good news today on Ed’s scans.

CathyCa- So you’ve completed your three day! Congratulations!!!!
I can’t wait to see pics and hear all about it.

The machine that measures for lymphedema sounds interesting. What did it say when you were measured? I wonder if my surgeon has one? I’ll ask her when I see her on Wednesday to get my port removed.

Carla- OK, I’m planning on sending the new SP’s on Friday so they arrive next week for December.

I am sending positive vibes on the thyroid ultra sound. I just read a thread on fatigue after 2 years or more, and thyroid was a big discussion. Chemo and rads can affect the thyroid apparently.

Thanks for the good wishes. Happy Cancerversary. My cancerversary is Dec. 6th, so two days after my twin’s surgery and one day after Kris’ right mastectomy.

OK, my narratives are waiting for me…oh joy.

I’ll check in tomorrow. SIS Kimberly

chj127 · November 2008

SisKimberly - hooray for Thanksgiving break! All of us in the working world should get that. It's funny - I saw that same magnet on the back of a car when I went in for my tests yesterday (save the TaTa's).

My mammo came back fine (hooray!) and the MRI won't get read for another couple of days, so I'm supposed to check in with them on Monday. The MRI was just of my breast, so no info about other organs or bones... But I do have to say, that was the most painful mammo I ever had. I never totally minded it before, but this one was awful. I think it's partly from the radiation (I've never stopped being sore since then) and partly that she really pulled on me to do it. Anyway, it's still sore today if I stretch certain ways. At least it's 6 months until the next one!

I asked my surgeon what he thought about genetic testing. He looked at the geneticist's report that said the probability of my being BRCA + is in the range of 6-17% - not high. He said with my ER/PR+ that if I was his wife, he'd recommend having my ovaries out (that would have been the one reason I'd want to do the test - I have no sisters or children). He said that would reduce my chances of another BC by 50% and almost eliminate the chance for ovarian cancer. I'm thinking that's a pretty good idea. Maybe in the early spring.

Cathy - that's awesome about your walk! Sounds like a great experience!

That's all - back to work!

CHJ

JulieK_11_30_07 · November 2008

Hi Jewels! Thinking of you all this Thanksgiving week! We're out of school now for the rest of the week. I'm just getting ready to do all of my "prepping" for my upper/lower endoscopy tomorrow -- OH JOY!!!! I think it may be a looooong night!

We have completed one room in our house!! We decided to start "small" and started with the room where we spend most of our time - we call it the "tv" room and it's right off the kitchen. Half of it used to also have a casual dining table in it but we didn't ever use it so we removed that, painted the entire room, took up the baseboards and put in new ones, put up new blinds, new outlet/light faceplates, and new ceiling fans. It's like a completely different room and we love it!!

We have lots of ideas for the rest of the house, so we're just going to take it slow and get things done at our own pace. Our biggest project will be the kitchen, but that will probably be the last thing we do.

Well, no time for individual shout-outs today -- please know you are all in my thoughts!! Happy Thanksgiving!! (I'm on that lovely liquid diet today and am afraid I may be as stuffed as the turkey by the time I stop eating on Thursday!!) Tongue out

Julie

RN2teach · November 2008

Just a quick note, ds and I have dermatologist appts this morning.

Got in from Duke last night around 10pm. Ed's MRI showed a new tumor and lots of brain swelling, which explains all the symptoms we've been seeing. So, we'll be traveling back to NC on Sunday (right in the middle of Thanksgiving travelers). He starts a new clinical trial on Monday. We'll be at Duke all day Monday, return Tuesday morning for blood work, and then we'll travel back home.

This is a good trial for him, I think. Two oral chemos--Temodar (the standard for glioblastoma) and the experimental drug Topotecan, which is approved for ovarian cancer. Have to read up on that one still...

Julie- I can hear you "sloshing" from here with all that liquid. I'll be thinking of you as you take the plung today... literally!

OK, gotta run. I'll be back later...

SISKimberly · November 2008

Hey CHJ, Julie, and Paula,

CHJ, glad to hear of the clear Mammo. WhooHoo!!!

Julie, thinking of you today. Maybe we'll meet somewhere in our anesthesia dreams. HeeHee

Port removal today. Just getting to head out the door right now.

Paula,crap on the new tumor and brain swelling. I hope this new clinical trial works better. Did the old tumor totally disappear? Sending lots of positive vibes your way. Give Ed hugs from the Jewels, and then consider yourself hugged as well.

Gotta go. Happy Thanksgiving gals,

SIS Kimberly

golfer779 · November 2008

Hi Ladies,

Sitting here in AZ the night before Thanksgiving. Wow, hard to just come across being excited about golfing through some rain today, but it is what it is and life is moving forward for all of us. If this was two years ago, I'd be on cloud nine but now it is harder to be quite so hyped!!! Some would think it should be the opposite, all I know is that life goes on, no stop, pause, rewind or fast forward in this thing we call life.

I read tonight of others and what life is throwing at them, some with great test results, others enduring tests of various sorts, ports removed, and love ones with their own set of challenges.

Please know that I continually have you all in my thoughts, checking in often and hoping that you all have a comforting Thanksgiving.

All for now from AZ ... Carol

chj127 · November 2008

Paula - prayers for you and DH, that your travels will be safe and that treatment for your hubby will bring healing.

SisKimberly - hope your port came out OK. It was such a relief when I got mine out - kind of like the end of a chapter!

Carol - enjoy your time away!

And I hope all of you have a blessed Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for! When I think about where I was last year at this time (like most of you) and where I am now, I am beyond thankful. And I'm grateful that I have had all of you to lean on for the past year!

CHJ

kris60 · November 2008

just a quick update between making the pies and getting the bird in

Had my Onc appt yesterday and she actually agreed with me on getting the left mastectomy, because of my age ( only 40) and the aggressiveness of the original tumor on the right.

She also got me in Monday for a PET scan. Whoo hoo Magnesium Citrate Sunday afternoon and I get to look forward to a cathetor ACK!!!!!. Other than that, pretty crazy around here which is good, keeps my mind busy.. Happy Thanksgiving Jewels !!!!! EAT TOO MUCH, we deserve it heehee

RN2teach · November 2008

Happy, happy Thanksgiving, Jewels!

I've been counting my blessings this morning and wanted to tell you all that I am so thankful for the Jewels. Couldn't have made it through this year without you. I found my tumor on the Sunday after Thanksgiving last year-- Nov. 25, I think. Had my mammo on the 30th. I'll be going in next week for the annual squeeze and smash.

Carol- hope the golfing weather is good today in AZ. You haven't mentioned your port surgery. Hope that means it is healing well and not giving you any grief on your 'cation. You said it well: "no stop, pause, rewind or fast forward in this thing we call life" SO true... but gee, what I coulda done with a rewind button...

Carla- ah, I see yesterday was your cancerversary. I'm glad it's 2008 and all of that is behind you!

Cathy- you did it! Congrats on completing your walk. Can't wait to see the pics.

Kimberly- hope the port removal went smoothly yesterday. And a clean PET scan for Kath is wonderful news. Now you two can focus on kicking some BC butt!

Kris- I'm glad your doc is being aggressive with this new tumor. You are so young... You have my best wishes and many prayers!

CHJ- A clean mammo--wonderful! Praying for good news from the MRI.

Dana- how's the studying going? I'm praying for a good testing experience. When's the exam?

Julie- ready for some turkey today? Hope everything went well yesterday.

And to all of the rest of my Jewel family, Happy Thanksgiving!

joteach · November 2008

Happy Thanksgiving Jewels!

I keep thinking of all the things to be thankful for. High on the list is this group. It has made such a difference and thanks to D1 for starting it!

Lucy and I are getting ready to go to NJ to my sisters for a glorious Thanksgiving feast! She is a great cook and I made my mom's recipe for pumpkin pie.

Great to be off from school till December 1!

Happy Thanksgiving to All!

Joan

sheshe48 · November 2008

HAPPY THANKSGIVING JEWELS,

I'm so sorry I have been missing in action. I have had the flu for over 2 wks, and it feels like it's in my chest. I worked almost 50 hrs last week and will work 60 hrs this week. I also still trying to find study time for my new job, it is so overwhelming. I have to learn so much so fast. We were slammed at kmart last night. I felt like I was going to pass out a couple of times. I think of everyone, I'm going to have to go on, on the nights I don't work at kmart and catch up on posts. I don't feel as stressed out with my new job, because I'm getting to know my job better. There is so much going on, I'm trying to find a place to live that I can afford and things like that. I'm just so stressed out. I'm going to go to my mom's and visit with her for a couple of hrs, and then I need to study and go to work at kmart. I hope everyone has a safe and blessed Thanksgiving.

Sherry

SISKimberly · November 2008

Happy Turkey Day Jewels,

I am going to say "ditto" to what everyone has already said about being so thankful to have found this group. I too cannot imagine what I'd have done without all of your love and support.

'Ditto" on saying "Thanks D1 for bringing us all together."

My portectomy went well. Got in three hours later than my scheduled time, but the peron in front of me was " a mess" once my surgeon got inside. I wasn't impatient or anything as I knew that if I needed the extra time to do the best job possible, that she would have done so for me, too. So, the last chapter in the treatment part of this journey was yesterday, and am ready to get my next chapter started. How appropriate that it would begin on Thanksgiving.

I see my oncologist on the 8th, so I'm doing bloodwork on the 1st. I will be celebrating my Cancerversay on the 6th, so when I see him next, it will be with a milestone having been reached. Oh Yeah!!!!

Carol - No need to keep your enthusiasm at bay...live life to its fullest!!! Dance around and smile and share the joy!!! You said it yourself, there's no rewind, pause, or fast forward button on life...all we have is now.

Kris - That is such great news that you're doctor's agree with you about getting that other breast taken care of, so you won't have to be playing the whatif game everytime you have a mammo.

The good news is that at least you will have enjoyed your Thanksgiving meal before have to drink that OH So Yummy drink. Keep us posted on the results of the PET.

Hey, Paula, good to hear from you today. Fingers and toes are crossed for Ed's new medical trial and for a clear mammogram next week.

Joan - Lucy is the cutest little thing. I'll bet she's grown a bit since you first got her. Yeah on a week off from school. I don't know about you,but teaching is exhausting both physically and emotionally for me. I'm on my feet all day as I'm sure you are, too, and feel like I'm part actress as I'm always 'on' , even when I don't have the energy to do so.

Enjoy your break...rej-energize your batteries. I know I am.

Happy Turkey Day to you all. I check in tomorrow.

SIS Kimberly

CHJ - I love your new avatar...your hair looks great!

Anonymous · November 2008

Happy Thanksgiving everyone ! DP is house-/petsitting for friends, I'll be taking 2 plates over there for us to have dinner later. We've done most of the cooking already, I just have to make stuffing today and she'll do veggies when I get there.

I was diagnosed a year ago this week. I don't remember the exact date. May have written it down, but I don't much feel inclined to look for it. I don't feel any need to have a '-versary.

Herceptin tomorrow. Only a handful of those left to go, maybe 4 or 5 after tomorrow.

Determined1 · November 2008

Happy Thanksgiving, Jewels!!!

It's been a while since I've had a chance to check in and I've missed you guys. This has been a crazy week for me. We kicked off our Basketball Boosters season Monday night with a parents' meeting and I was overwhelmed preparing for it and now I'm swamped with a to do list as a result. I'm trying to take a break from it today, since its Thanksgiving. We'll see how well I do. Our first night to open our snack bar (one of our activities) is Friday, Dec. 5 and it seems like there's a mountain of things to do before then. Forgive me if I'm not around quite so much.

Update on my sister. She had her mammo redone on Monday and the docs at this center were not as impressed as the folks were who did her first one. So she's been given a clean bill of health on the mammo for another year. Then she trotted off to see an ENT surgeon about the growth on her neck. They did a CT scan and the surgeon was equally unimpressed with that mass, but he didn't like a mass he spied on her thyroid. (She's suspected there was something up with her thyroid for a long time, so she wasn't completely surprised.) She's going to have that lump removed on December 4. I'm hoping it will be benign. She's already done the cancer thing a couple of years back and didn't like it much. I'm not sure if she's up mentally for more of the same. Keep your fingers crossed.

My news is that my drought has ended! I think my drought was a bit longer than most (we'd been having some issues long before bc came up), so it was especially nice (and so much like riding a bike-I guess you don't totally forget everything!). Only weirdness was there was absolutely no touching of my breasts-and to think I went the lump route to maintain sensation... Hopefully, I won't wait quite as long for the next romp and can try to address that issue.

So what's up? I'm thinking Kimberly, Paula and Kris should have some news for us-I'll read on.

Boy LWDana, it sounds like you're doing all the right things to prepare yourself for your exam. Hang in there.

CathyCA-I'm just seeing your report from the 3day. I know what you mean about how moving it is to see all the "in memory of" stuff. I just did the Komen walk and was overwhelmed by it. I can't imagine the magnitude at something like the 3day. I'll read on and see how the rest of it went. I'm really glad for you that you did this.

Yeah, Paula, I imagined you were getting hit pretty hard by those storms in your holler. Thanks for the scholarship link. I checked it out and I'm not sure that will be one my dd will be eager to do as she was totally in to the denial thing the entire time I was sick last year. I'll ask her, but I may have to look other places. At least she has agreed to write essays to apply for some scholarships, so that's a part of the battle. She's thinking about trying her hand at a screenplay for a scholarship through the Shakespeare theatre here in DC. The deadline is some time in February, so much time for procrastination! I think it would be a good one for her-it's a different kind of writing than that to which she is accustomed.

I've been talking to some people with counseling experience and while I think it's a good idea for me to air things out (my first consultation even got me to talk to dh about how I feel-although that didn't go great), I think I may need to shop around to find a better listener. I have a week or so to mull it over, so I'm not going to decide anything today, but I do have options.

Hoping you have news on your trip to Duke...

Just throwing it out there: early July sounds good to me right now for our soiree.

Happy belated cancerversary, Carla!

So CathyCA-a new use for Aquaphor! Good for you! It sounds like you experienced your walk from several different angles-and all were moving. I'm so glad that you did it. I imagine you have a little empty space in your life right now that used to be filled up with planning for the walk, but it just means you'll have to do it again next year!

Boy, I hear you, SISKimberly. This must be another detour...

I love that the tickets are having an impact-you are so creative!

Flexi, hmmm. Well, I feel like I'm a prisoner, but I guess I'm not, really. Talking on the phone is best, and I like listening to NPR podcasts as a close second (This American Life, Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me and the Friday News Roundup). Reading is my last choice as I'm flat on my back and have to hold my book up with one arm so I can see through my bifocals (yeah, I'm that old). My arm gets tired and turning the pages is a hassle, but when I want to read, I do. The hardest part is finding an hour everyday to do it. I'm not always successful...

Thanks for the reminder that it's all baby steps. Sometimes I forget...

Why doesn't it surprise me that you have a background in counseling? I trust that your career path will proceed as it's meant to be. There's a reason for everything.

So I don't know, CHJ, most of us look forward to "spring cleaning" our houses, not our bodies! Ask some questions on the ovary thing. The advice I was given when I looked in to it was to keep my ovaries since removing them would not shut down my hormone production. Apparently, your body's fat cells will pick up the slack if you remove the ovaries-making the surgery unnecessary. The only part of it that worries me is the chance for ovarian cancer by keeping them. My team says they're going to monitor me carefully, but thought, for me, the risk of the surgery was greater than the risk of ovarian cancer. Time will tell, I guess.

Wow, Julie, you're WAY ahead of me on the remodeling! I need to get my dh to engage to achieve any forward motion. Sometimes I wish he'd just say, "you do it," but he doesn't. I'm glad you're seeing some changes that make you happy. (So, you cleaned yourself out just in time for the annual "pigging!" What a great tactical move! --How'd your scopes come out?)

Oh Paula, I'm so sorry that the MRI showed a new tumor. You and Ed have the most amazing attitudes. You're inspirational. I REALLY hope this new trial works. I'll be thinking about you.

Still waiting to hear about SISKim's deporting...

Thanks for checking in, Carol. Could nine is just different now, as is everything else in our lives. Just enjoy.

Kris-I'm so glad that you and your med team are on the same page. YOU definitely deserve to eat too much today! I'll be thinking about you on Monday.

Oh yeah, Paula, a rewind button would be GREAT!

Joan-good to hear from you. Keep your fingers crossed-dd hears from Vassar on December 15!

There's Sherry, again, forgetting to take a deep breath! Goodness, girl, do you think you have enough stress in your life? Try to relax and enjoy Thanksgiving. You deserve the break.

WoooHooo! SISKimberly has sent her port out to sea! Sounds like your procedure went much better than the woman before you. I hope your recovery is quick and painless (or as painless as can be expected).

Too bad you're not having your big meal on your cool dining set, LJ, but a moveable feast sounds like just the ticket for you guys today. (And happy cancerversary, anyway. You're just celebrating it your way.)

Finally, thanks, Jewels. This last year would have totally sucked without your support and friendship. It always amazes me how total strangers can be brought together by an event and learn to love and support one another. We've come such a long way together. I hope we can continue to ride in to the future knowing a Jewel is always there.

Happy Thanksgiving.

D1

golfer779 · November 2008

Happy Thanksgiving ...

We're thankful this morning to still have a roof on the our friend's house ... I think a lightning strike in the middle of the night was closer than I'd even like to think about. We "bolted" out of bed at 2am to thunder like I've never heard in my life. It took about a half hour to get our hearts out of our throats to fall back asleep.

Yes we did venture to the golf course this morning ... luckily we dodged most of the rain drops and are now back enjoying "a bit of nosh", football, and libations. Dinner tonight will be Cornish game hens.

What I'm thankful for ... hmmmmm... let me think about it "Cancer????" ... NOT, but yes to all of the positives experiences that have come my way. Reengaging with friends and family and becoming so much closer to them while appreciating them to their fullest. Realizing more often than not what really is important throughout the day and running with it.

Lastly to even think of the bonds I've felt with a group of total strangers gives me shivers. I will be forever greatful ...

A good day to all ... Carol

wvgirl · November 2008

Happy Thanksgiving !

Just a quick hello to each and everyone.

The thoughts of thankfulness has been racing through my mind today. I am thankful for D1 for starting this and to each and everyone on my sister Jewels.I have learned to not be in a hurry and to laugh more, look at situations in a very different way than before. I sometimes tell my self things could be worse. When I was diagnoses a PA friend of mine said Carla if there was any kind of cancer to have this it the one you want. I know of a young lady who recently passed away of a very rare cancer . When the doctor told her your cancer is not curable we can only treat is so it wont grow too fast. The week after she passed away her husband died of Lou Garrick's leaving 2 teenage sons behind.

I am thankfull for my familyand friends

I am thankful to have on of the best Onc in my state. I was at a survivor dinner he was also there he made it a point to stop by each table that his patients were sitting at. Talked with them gave them a hug. Heck he even knew I was to see him in December. This coming from a doc who sometimes sees up to 40 -50 patients a day.

I am thankful to have great friends (the Jewels) whom I have never met in person yet but know we will soon. Laughing

I hope everyone great health in the years to come. As the saying goes "Youv'e come a long way baby."

Take care and God Bless You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Carla

Jan 2008--Ain't it Great?

Comments

Categories