Jan 2008--Ain't it Great?

sheshe48 · December 2008

LG13 I love your new dining rom set. I kinda pictured in my mind. When you first bought it.

SISKimberly · December 2008

Better late than never, eh? Wow, what a crazy busy last week. Kathleen’s surgery went well. Thank you all for your positive well wishes and good vibes. We were at the hospital from 10AM until 7:30pm. She had radioactive die injected directly into the breast, then had a mammogram squish so the doctor could insert a guide wire to the tumor site which would lead the surgeon directly to the area that needed to be removed. Afterwards, we waited in pre-op until surgery, which was a little later than the expected 3pm start time. Kath came through it like a trooper. She was in a lot of pain when she woke up, so the nurse gave her morphine, which promptly knocked her right out. The nurse came out and told us we’d have to wait for awhile longer to take her home as Kath was a light weight and was out again. She truly is a lightweight. She orders ½ shot of decaf espresso, unless she’s feeling wild and then it’s ½ shot of espresso, in her soy latte. Hahaha. She goes back to see the surgeon on Monday the 15th and should have her path results by then as well.

I saw my oncologist today. It looks as though I will be getting an opinion about an ooph, and while I’m there, a hysterectomy since I won’t need the equipment anymore and chances of endodemetrial cancer is slightly elevated for breast cancer patients who are ER positive. Anywhoo…my oncologist said he would totally support that decision since I’m not doing Tamox. I’ll talk to the doc he referred me to and see what the pros and cons would be for me. My weight loss has totally stalled, but so has my motivation to exercise daily…more than a walk. I know that once I get back on the wagon, the weight will start to come off again. I totally want to be in great shape and have this exercise thing be part of my daily routine before I do this next surgery if I do it.

My school was nominated for the California Distinguished School Award, so I’ve been out of my classroom Friday and today helping to write the narratives and get the application filled out. It is due on Dec. 19th. As much of an honor as it is, it is really hard being out of my classroom. I’ll be back in class tomorrow, though. Yeah.

We’ve got the house decorated for the holiday inside and out this weekend, and Greg made a gorgeous valance (wood covered with batting and a rich fabric that is curved out into the room like the new hotel shower curtain rods…do you know what I mean?) for our bedroom window. We redid the bedroom décor – new bedding and curtains, thus the need for a new valance.

We also got up early on Saturday morning to be at Kohl’s by 5:30am for a charity shopping spree. Over 400 volunteers were paired up with needy kids from the community and taken on a $150 shopping spree sponsored by the Tommy Apostolis Fund. It was great. Greg and I had a cute little 7th grade boy from the middle school I used to work for when I was hired in Roseville. It used to be the only middle school at the time. He did pretty darn well when it was all said and done.

Oh, Therese was my Sept. to November S.P. Thanks for the card and the photo album. Hope everyone got their new SP’s.

Did everyone figure out who their previous SP’s were?

So what is up with the Jewels?

LJ13 – Love the dining set!!!!

Carla – I had my port removed in the hospital. It was outpatient. After 13 days, it’s still bruised, but not so sore anymore. The glue fell off yesterday, and the scar looks pretty darn good. They used the same incision as before.

The largest was 1cm…there is more than one cyst on your thyroid? My thyroid test came back normal, so my being tired has nothing to do with that…thank goodness.

Carol – It is always a bummer to have to return to reality after being on ‘cation isn’t it?

Yes, there was a ‘hole’ under the skin where the port once was, so I had to press on it to help the skin reattach to the tissue underneath and to push the fluid out. All is well now, but it was no fun I will tell you that!!!

I was sorry to hear about your friend, Jill. I’m assuming she’s had a mastectomy already?

Let’s do Tahoe!!!! That sounds like fun. I get out the 12th of June. And as far as I know we’ll be heading up your way the last week in June.

Hope you enjoyed your dinner with Kalen. Is she not doing Tamox since she did that ooph?

Yeah…a new washer and dryer!!!! What kind? You can pick up the phone and call me anytime. Even if I’m busy, I’m never to busy to talk to a fellow Jewel.

And I agree that Paula is a SHERO…I’m thinking her picture should be there with the definition. I know you don’t think of yourself as a SHERO because you’re just doing what needs to be done, right? But girlfriend, you’ve done more than what needs to be done…you’ve gone above and beyond with your students and the time you put in there on top of everything else going on in your world.

Well, good news on getting your squish and MRI scheduled so quickly. Here’s to good news all the way around the right one. Heehee

Jules – Thank goodness there was nothing of concern after the ‘procedure’. Man, you wouldn’t have known you just had a medical procedure and migraines with the shopping spree the day after Thanksgiving. Glad to hear you had a blast.

13 years old???? A tweener no more. Before you know it, he’s going to driving.

OMG, when you said “Lost of couple of puppies”, I thought you meant they died…Phew…so glad you meant just gone AWOL and then found later.

Deb- Glad to hear from you. Good advice for D1.

Kris – So, how you doing? Lefty should be gone and you should have PET scan results by now. I’m glad that you were home so quickly afterwards and updating us in your upbeat manner. Looking forward to your pathology news…the fingers and toes are crossed for good news.

Cathy – Oh your trip sounds like fun. My gf is on a 42 day cruise from San Diego to Mexico, down to South America, and around to Rio De Janeiro (sp).

Awesome, on the Herceptin almost being over, and then your port being removed soon. That will be a real milestone!!!!

Great pics of the three day. You’re looking good!

D1 – Well, sounds like you’ve been a busy bb parent, eh?

Glad to hear that you had a heart to heart with the dh and even though it was hard on him, he seemed to hear you. Feeling closer is so important…keeping that feeling even more so. Keep talking and letting him know how much you appreciate his efforts. I’m rooting for you…and yes, you may want to give your counselor a fair shot. Deb is right about using this time to talk, talk, and talk some more…get everything out in the open. You might be surprised where some of the stuff leads you…to things you totally forgot about or didn’t even know were issues.

So, what is Megace for? Hormone fluctuation issues due to Tamox? A CT scan? For what prey tell?

My onc today wasn’t even concerned, or at least didn’t offer any advice or explanation, about the lingering se’s I’m having. Neuropathy, my digestive tract still isn’t right, and I’m still not thinking as clearly as I used to think…feel foggy headed.

Well, I got a Christmas card today from you…thank you so much!

Paula – Thank you for checking in on me and my twinsis. Sending Eddie lots of positive energy. Hope the weekend was peaceful.

Kathy – Happy belated birthday!!!! Wow, I can’t believe it’s almost the end of Herceptin for you. Seems like we were all hearing about…a year of Herceptin. Congrats. I know it will feel weird not going every three weeks. Now that the port is gone, it feels strange not to have any need to see someone regularly. I do see my oncologist in three months again, and will see a doc regarding a potential ooph and hysterectomy, but I understand what you mean.

Hey Maz. Good to hear from you. You’ve got a birthday coming up on Thursday as you’ve just reminded me…and it’s been on my calendar, too. Happy early birthday.

Sherry – Sounds like Kmart was just too much with the other job. Hopefully you can get in your 40 hours in on the at home job in less time once you really get the hang of things. And score on the new desk from the kids. How sweet of them.

OK, I am finally caught up. Got to go eat a little dindin.

SIS Kimberly

golfer779 · December 2008

Hi Jewels

SisKimberly, glad that you posted yesterday, I like to think that no news is good news ... it appears that has held true. Wow, you and Kathleen had a long day at the hospital, hope that she is recovering quickly. Oh, how we all remember the waiting game for those path results, lets hope the time flies by and she has some positive news to share by Monday.

So on to you ... a ooph in your future? Sounds like it would probably have some "pros" that may outweigh the "cons" especially as you mentioned with not taking these darn hormone drugs. You asked about Kalen, she like some of us went into menopause during chemo, then ended up with a cyst on one of her ovaries (that is why she opted for the ooph), so it's my understanding that most post menopause cases end up taking a AI instead of Tamo. To be honest with you, I still don't have a complete understanding as to what the heck these drugs really do so differently. I know you'd think that I would since I'm putting it into my body every day !!!

Speaking of Kalen, it was fun to chat, she is moving along as we all are trying to figure out this new norm thing and wow, she has quite a full head of hair!!!

My other friend in AZ is scheduled for surgery next Monday, she will be having her port removed and the surrounding area. They will be putting in a power port on her other side at the same time. Hopefully she will also have some results from her PET/CT by weeks end. She has had a mastectomy with the second reoccurence ... there is definitely no fairness with this darn disease.

So we replaced the ancient wash/dryer with a couple of LG front loaders. I've only done two loads and they are nice in comparison to the oldies!

I'm waiting to see if we get any nods on a Jewel reunion at Lake Tahoe. I believe that there may be some issues with graduations in mid June. I'll throw out a date how about 19-21 June ??? Anything other than July 25^th (dd's wedding) works for me. I wasn't sure if you meant the week of the June 22^nd or 29^th for heading to the PNwest. Anyone thoroughly confused ???

Kris, how's the draino gig going ??? Hope your feeling decent and get your drain out soon. Been thinking of you.

Sherry, yeah on being able to quit your K-mart job. How the heck you found time to do both jobs was quite something. Oh lucky you too on the new desk. I've got a worthless desk as far as being usable myself. That's probably why I spend a lot of time with this laptop on my lap in the living room !!!

All for now ... Carol

golfer779 · December 2008

Good Day Jewels

I noticed the date this morning, it's been one year since our fearless leader started this post.

I so wonder what this journey would have been like if I had just puttered away on my own, maybe hitting a cancer support group on the third Weds of every month??? I do know that after I began reading the post from D1 that I really wanted to stay connected. Wow, I must say that I never imagined what would actually happen with a group of total strangers, and that there would still be that connection today.

D1, your wit and sense of humor along with your compassion for those that traveled this journey with you is outrageous. We've all had our highs and lows, and together we've supported each other with if nothing else just some kind words. Looking at many of the other threads which have been started with a similar bond, I don't think any have had the sisterhood of this one.

Yeah, we've all piped in here or there, but our Determined One has always kept things lively and atleast for me always worth atleast one good laugh. I spent some time last night re-reading some posts ... what a group this has been.

Thanks D1 ... and to my fellow JJ's

Carol

PAlady · December 2008

I absolutely can't believe it has been almost a month since I last posted! Maybe it doesn't ever seem so long because I think of you all and read more often - who knows?! As of now this posting has taken me 4 days to do. I think I am going to finally get it done though!

D1 - love the background story about Eleuthera - you definitely have had an interesting life. Did you ever decide on a plate? I hope your sis is doing ok. Yay for you onending the drought! Hopefully it won't be too long now until the next encounter - seems like starting is the hardest part. Thanks for the card!

LJ - Thanks for the Project Gutenburg info. I have added a bookmark to their site. Your reference to the CBS Radio Mysteries brought back fond memories of my childhood. We used to drive to my grandparent and aunts' houses about an hour away every weekend - we loved it when the ride home afforded us the chance to listen to the mysteries instead of news!!

Carol - one of my friends son's did the same thing with the ear piercing while she was out of town? She made him take it out as soon as she found out and it closed up. He then turned 18 a few months later and got it repierced!

As far as a meet up among the jewels, I will try to come no matter when/where it is.

So sorry to hear about your cmf friend. Cancer sucks. Will keep her in my prayers.

I guess this is an anniversary of sorts for all of us since D1 started this a year ago. I didn't join up till January - but am forever thankful I did.

Paula - I agree with Carol you are a SHERO. I don't know how you do it, but you are inspiring. Thank you for the link to the scholarship. DS has not started any scholarship essays yet. He has applied to two schools: John Carroll in Cleveland, OH which is about 1 hour 40 minutes from here and Allegheny which is about 40 minutes. They have a huge senior project they have started working on that is due on Jan 9 which is about 200 - 300 pages from what I hear so that has been taking up most of his time.

I sent out your calendars Monday - thanks so much for getting them!

I love your new avatar by the way - your hair looks great!

We live on some back roads too. I spun out about 2 weeks ago and landed in the ditch - broke the fog light on my Pilot and it cost $300 to fix - I was not happy. We have had about 5 times as much snow as normal in November. I am sick of winter already!

Cathy CA - Sorry about your mil. I have found I get very rattled even if I feel like I am ok - I think it affects me subconsciously. It really is ridiculous the number of people I know who have cancer. My prayer list keeps getting longer and longer - sad. Thanks for the updates on your walk - it sounds awesome! My oldest ds would love to have your ds's job! All three of mine are snowboarders. Yay on the clean MRI and thanks for the pics!

Kimberly - How are the tickets working for your class? I see in your update to D1 about students having to call home - my only input would be make sure they are actually calling home. At our school they had a rule where the kids would have to call home if they didn't have their homework done - seems some of the kids got crafty and would just call Time & Temperature and pretend to be talking to a parent! I forgot what grade you teach. My youngest ds is in 7^th grade and the attitude reminds me of him - which drives me crazy. I was very studious and he is the exact opposite. Thankfully some of his teachers have been very good at keeping me in the loop so we can "crack the whip" at home when he gets indifferent. Glad all went well with your ds' surgery. Thank you (SP) for the shopping totes! Very stylish and I like that their purchase goes to a good cause.

I love your plate idea. All this talk has me wanting to get a clever one, too.

Kris - I hope all is well with you. I would opt for the same thing as you. If this sh*t ever comes back they can take them both and be done with it. I can't believe how fast you came home! I hope all results are good.

CHJ - congrats on your clean mammo. Nice to see your picture updated!

Julie - How fun to be updating your house. We just did some painting (same colors) but it makes the biggest difference. Glad your colonoscopy went well - how bad was it having it done?

Carla - So sorry to hear about your PA friend. That is so sad for her children.

Kathy - Happy belated birthday!

Sherry - Glad you got to quit Kmart.!!

A reunion trip at a lake or ocean sounds great. It would be nice if we could find a place centrally located.

DS2 got his wisdom teeth out on Monday DS1 had his out today so I am playing nurse to both of them. We had a lot of laughs about what they were doing and saying in recovery. I was in Hershey, PA for the weekend and it was freezing!

I get to go tomorrow for my next US on my ovaries. Wish me luck. It would be nice to get some good news.

I went and heard a new onc at our cancer center speak. I loved her! I would really like to switch to her but not sure about it. I feel bad cause I don't have anything against my current one, but I really like this lady. I just need to work up the nerve to switch. I am already scheduled to see my old one next week. Any input?

So glad to be caught up. Have a great day all!

Determined1 · December 2008

Happy Anniversary to the January Jewels!!!! We started our journey together one year ago today. It is hard for me to imagine the changes we have all experienced. Thanks to each of you for being a huge part of my recovery (sanity). I hope we can continue to help each other along the road.

Speaking of moving along the road-Carol, didn't you have your MRI today? Or should I say, will have it in a few hours. I hope the big girl panties are wedgie-free as you get the IV for contrast.

Yep, there's Carol's post confirming the MRI. Sounds like you needed a lazy Sunday after your escapades with the steaks and vino on Saturday, my friend.

So Sherry, I'm glad you were able to quit the Kmart job. It sounds like it was really hard on your body. Hopefully, the new desk and the at-home job will keep you financially sound and in better physical shape. The only problem I have with working out of my home is that I can never really leave work. My office space is like a magnet to me. If you can figure out how to have down time, you're ahead of the game. Happy to send the card. It makes me happy that it made you happy. I really wish I had everyone's address, because I'd love to send some cheer everywhere this time of year, but...

OMG, SISKimberly!!!! SISKath had my surgical procedure from hell!!!!! If I NEVER do the guide wire thing again, it's too soon. I can't tell you how relived I am to hear she was a trooper. She deserves a medal, IMO.

I'll be interested to hear what advice you get re: the ooph and hysterectomy. My med team didn't think it would do me much good. So I'm taking the Tamox and, quite frankly, I think it has me in a dangerous downward spiral mentally. I want to cry all the time (not usually a crier, here, so this is weird). And I'm riding my dh like some deranged nag. Not that he doesn't deserve some of it, but I think I'm overboard. So that's the reason for the Megace.

Transition time (I'll get back to SISKim in a minute). I Googled Megace. Turns out, it's a drug for AIDS, anorexic and malnutrition patients. It's SUPPOSED to stimulate the appetite. Now I'm not sure if you all have been paying attention to me, but I'm a little obsessed with my weight. AND this drug can cause anxiety and depression. HELLO??? I'm already fucking depressed. Do two wrongs make a right? My onc only gave me a month's worth, and then I'm supposed to report in. I guess I'll do it, but do I want to take an appetite stimulant during the holidays???? May I complain and say I want my life back?? Okay, rant over. Maybe. (I'm depressed, so I may rant again.)

Wow, Kimberly, what an honor for your school!!! And, if I may say so, they picked the right person to write the narratives.

The redecorating sounds great. Nothing like it for a pick me up. My bathroom project is stalled till I can get my dh to look at some of the stuff I've scoped out. I hope I don't have to start over...

Yep, yep, our Paula is a SHERO! Got that cape, Paula???

Oh, the CT scan. In September 2007, when I first had all my scans after dx, my surgeon spotted a mass on my lung that looked suspicious to him, but he said let's deal with the bc first, then move on to that. Well, I guess it's time to move on to that and discover it's nothing (I hope). Funny though, I can't seem to pick up the phone to schedule it...

Carol, a Jewel reunion sounds great to me. Dd's graduation is June 18, so I can't really do anything before that. My dh has been supportive of a reunion to date, so I'm going to take him at his word and say I'll be there!

Hope the LG front loader stays the course. I bought a Bosch front loader tandem a couple of years ago because they are so quiet (true) and my laundry area is practically in the middle of my house. BUT, I found that you have to prop the door to the washer open after each use to allow it to dry out as the rubber seal for the door will get mildewy and you can't get rid of it. Word to the wise.

And that was a wonderful anniversary post. I wish it had been mine.

Norma, great post. Thanks for catching us up. Your new avatar is fabulous. I can't believe how much hair you have! Ouch on the Pilot's fog light. Luckily, that was all the damage (trying to help you fill that glass half full again). I ended up getting "BO1BC0" on my plates. In fact, they arrived today and I was so excited that I put them on myself. I can't wait to start driving around tomorrow!

And good luck with your ovary us. I guess I'll be getting that in the spring. Don't these scans and tests make you crazy? It's a full time job! Do let us know what they say.

Switching oncs. Hmmm. You know, I hadn't even thought of doing that. Frankly, if you've found someone that makes you feel comfortable and gives you a sense of confidence, then that should be your doctor. Having said that, I don't know if oncs are like surgeons (no surgeon likes to pick up after another surgeon-I learned that one the hard way). I'd be interested to hear what others think.

Happy Birthday, Maz!!!!!!

Well, I'm going to check out the news. I just wanted to drop in and say thanks to a bunch of most amazing people.

D1

kris60 · December 2008

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Well, never thought so many ppl would yell at me..for leaving the hospital the next day, going back to work Tuesday *sighs* it's all good, I'm behaving, it drives me crazy to sit around the house. Feeling pretty good, just the normal little pings, twinges and nerve zaps here and there.

The only news I have at the moment is the PET scan came back clean, except the known spot on good ol' lefty. So I guess that's pretty good. They're hoping the pathology will be here Friday, so weeeeeee. The good news is, it's cold outside and I don't stand at attention anymore Tongue out (let me know if you don't get it).

Thanks for the cards Carol and D I was quite surprised

Who's done with Christmas shopping? eeeeeeekkkk!

tootles for now

Kris

kris60 · December 2008

oh and the kool-aid is still flowing........ too much to pull the drain yet. A family friend said to ask Santa for DD's HA!

RN2teach · December 2008

Happy Anniversary Jewels!

Thanks to everyone for your kind words. I can't adequately express just how much you all mean to me. It just boggles the mind that I've only met D1 in person. My ds graduates early--May 30. My last day of work is around June 15 and I'll be with my students in Nashville from June 24-27. So, Carol, a Jewels reunion on June 19-21 would work well for me. Lake Tahoe sounds fabulous.

Things are blissfully quiet around here. Dh is doing much better. Thank God, the steroids are doing their job. He's much more alert and able to talk and understand us again. He's even feeling well enough to do some small chores around the house.

I'm almost finished with Christmas shopping. I did most of my shopping right here at my desk in my jammies-- gotta love modern technology! The kids and I did go out Monday evening to get dh's gift: a new tv and home theater system to replace the tv that went belly up last month. I have an armoire that I have had earmarked for a home entertainment system since I bought it back in the early 90s. Dh bought this humongous 52 inch HDTV around the same time, so my armoire has been serving as a storage cabinet. Now it is finally being used for its intended purpose and it looks great!

KathyL- happy belated birthday!! I can't believe your final herceptin is just around the corner. Congrats on being finished with your treatment and feeling good. Wishing you many, many decades of health and happiness! (hope you didn't catch dh's virus...)

Kris- back to work already? What a woman!! Breathing a sigh of relief on reading that your PET Scan is clear. LOL at all your witty remarks. You crack me up!

Carol- puttering around in the yard still in December? Glad the weather is nice enough to allow that, although you know those marathon weeding sessions always make you feel like crap the next day!

Ah, I see you had your MRI a little while ago. When will you get the results?

Julie- I almost cried over the pups until I read a little farther and saw they were just missing for a little while. Glad they're okay. Our house is all decorated for the holiday on the inside, but I had some trouble with the outdoor lights and still haven't gotten around to putting them up. Maybe this weekend....

Cathy- good to see your 3-day pics. What a beautiful place to walk!

Maz- HAPPY Birthday to you tomorrow! Glad you checked in and all is going well with you.

D1- got my Christmas card yesterday--thanks! My new pic was taken in Senator Byrd's office in DC while we were there in Sept. I just got a haircut, so it looks much the same. Yep, I still have the pesky cowlick...

Hmmm, we always have long wait times for the onc... where's my cocoa?! Interesting about the Megace. It is a targeted therapy drug that inhibits hormone production from the pituitary and adrenal glands. I'll have to investigate that one myself (inquiring minds wanna know and all that).

Sherry- I'm happy to hear that you're through with K-Mart. It was having a negative impact on your health and who needs that after what we've been through, eh? Glad you got an early Christmas present to celebrate your new work-at-home job-- just what you needed!

Kimberly- What a long day you and Kath had for her surgery. Hope she's feeling well this week. And you've found time to decorate in and out, work on a distinguished school award AND participate in a charity event. You're one busy gal!

Norma- I got my calendars today. They're terrific! Love your new avatar pic. You look like you have more curl than I do--it's very becoming!

Guess I'd better shuffle off to bed. My students are conducting a health fair for the middle school tomorrow. I've got to be there early to unpack the equipment from my van.

Take care all, Paula

KathyL · December 2008

Oh gosh, just a few days away and I've missed too much already....

First off, have to say a Happy Anniversary of the Jewels to all. I ditto everyone's sentiments that this site and this thread have been such a great find. Thank you D1! All of the Jewels are amazing women, and I'm so glad to have "met" each of you. I hope we continue to chat over the coming months and years!

Well, I caught dh's bug. Feeling yucky today, but have to be at work as my teammate has off. No fever, just stuffy and I have no voice. I am ready for spring already!

Maz: Happy birthday!

Kris: Glad you're doing well. Take it easy, girl!

D1: I'd call your doc back and ask about that Megace. I personally woudn't want to endure a month of that when there are surely other drugs out there for you! And thanks for the card. I loved it

Kim: Glad your sister's surgery went well. Keep us posted on her.

Julie: I echo someone's "whew" that the pups are OK. I was ready to lose it reading your post.

Norma: See if you can have an appointment to meet that onc preliminarily. If you like her one you meet face-to-face, I say switch! Our relationship with our oncs are soooo important. BTW, your hair looks great. Have you cut it yet? I found that with each cut, I lost more curl. Now, I just have wave on top.

Carol: Lake Tahoe sounds nice, but I have to agree with whomever said a more central location would be nice. Airfare from the East Coast to Tahoe will be killer. Anytime after June 8th is good for me I think.

Paula: I hope Santa brings you a personal assistant. You so deserve one, lady. I can't get over how much you get done with all that you have going on in your life. I am almost done with shopping. next up... baking, and wrapping!

kris60 · December 2008

WHOO HOO the Onc just called, the path came back negative YAYYYYYYYYYYYYY no more chemo scare whew, time to go get a beer, well, once I get home from work.

texrn · December 2008

Hi everyone!

I know....long time no post....time sure flies. I still can't believe it's almost Christmas. I was driving down the road today, listening to the radio & Queen came on, singing " ...we are the champions..." & I swear I instantly thought of all of you! You all are definitely my heroes in ways I can't begin to express. Here you are 1 year through this unforgettable journey taking care of loved ones, children, jobs, traveling, buying washing machines & dining room furniture - in essence, still taking care of business! I am so proud of all of you & so blessed to have found this haven to come & express myself. As far as a JJ reunion, please count me in - the end of June sounds great, as does Lake Tahoe! I may or may not have my husband in tow...haven't decided yet.

The last 6 weeks or so have been filled w/ dr. appt's & check-ups: eye doc, dentist, gyn, pcp, ps, onc, & for the grand finale!! a gastroenterologist - for my first colonscopy! Apparently, having had bc has put me at a slightly higher risk of getting colon cancer & I decided to have my initial screening now rather than wait 3 years until I turn 50. The colon prep & the subsequent bathroom trips brought back some not so pleasant memories of certain chemo side effects...fun,fun,fun!!

Had my second haircut last week & I must say I still don't like my hair short but " oh well - it is what it is". My family & friends really like it - I just smile & say 'thank you'.

Kimberly - I am so thankful your sis made it through her surgery with flying colors. Also,thanks for keeping up w/ the SP project.

PALady & Paula - love the avatar pics!!! I'd take one of myself, but my camera & computer are not cooperating these days.

Paula - so glad to hear your dh is doing better & is able to engage in life again - thank God for steroids!!

D1 - thank you so much for the Christmas card - what a nice surprise!!! Also, thank you for being the trail blazer & beacon for this group.

Kris - congrats!! on the path results....now you can exhale & enjoy the holidays!

Well, I best get myself in the kitchen, The kids keep asking me what's for dinner & don't think I can hold them off any longer w/ "I dunno..."

Talk to you soon,

Therese

Determined1 · December 2008

Great news, Kris!!!!! I'm tipping one in your honor!!!

Paula, so glad to hear Ed is doing better. You gotta like it when he can do some stuff around the house (and I know he does, too). Cool beans on the new entertainment system and finding a home in the designated armoire. It's so funny how it sometimes takes years for those things to finally work themselves out. I hope you get lots of pleasure out of it.

I'm going to pop the first Megace tonight. My mood is better today (although I've found over the past 10 days or so that it's not very reliable). I hear what you're saying KathyL, but the other options he gave me sounded worse than getting fat, so I'm going to try it for a month. If I put on too much weight, it'll make me all anxious and depressed all over again, so I'm going to have to watch it, but I'm trying to recruit my family to help me from having seconds at meals or whatever and hopefully, I'll be able to be okay. Anything's better than this downer I've been on... (It's so weird, I didn't really think this blue period was chemically induced, but my onc said the effects of Tamox can be cumulative and for someone like me-very susceptible to drug reactions-he wasn't surprised. It sure explains a lot.)

So what can we do that's more central? It should be a place with decent air service. I mean, there's places like Austin, Denver, Phoenix, Santa Fe... I haven't looked at any ticket prices, so I don't know, but they're central. Oh, and there's always Chicago-although that might be expensive once we get there. Any ideas?

Thanks for the card, Carla. I don't know how you have time to get them out.

I have to refill my glass-I've been toasting Kris a bit much and I'm outta juice.

Carol-MRI?

D1

Determined1 · December 2008

Therese,

You musta been posting while I was composing. Just want to weigh in on the spouse issue. I'm not bringing mine. I want to connect with the Jewels on my own. Just my take.

Oh, and the colonoscopy must've come out okay (is that a bad pun?). The prep is awful, I'm not looking foward to my next one, that's for sure!

What's for dinner?

D1

golfer779 · December 2008

Happy Thurs Eve,

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAZ ... Here's to a much less "eventful" year ahead !!!

Well I finally bit the bullet and pulled all of the Christmas decorations and tree out of the attic. Kinda pathetic I know to have a fako tree living here in the Pacific Northwest! I tried to find Christmas music on XM radio (had no luck), so put on some oldie put goodie cd's of some of my favs. The ds was at Sylvan, and the dh is still on his way home from work. His hours of late have been ugly long. So the wieners and I we're going solo. Happy to report that the tree is up and the knick-knacks are in place.

Last night I went for my MRI, on the way there I stopped by to see Steph at his home (he is no longer working as of a month ago). I'm saddened to report that he is not doing well. He has decided to stop with radiation treatment, and is on pretty heavy pain meds now. We shared a long hug, although our visit was quite short, his talking was labored. His lovely wife is a real trooper (she used to be a onc nurse). She is well aware of the signs of what is going on, it was a tough visit ... but truly an important one.

So what's up with these marathon appts ??? I had a scheduled 6:00 MRI, didn't get into the tube until after 7:00. Okay, I could have used the reminder to keep my eyes shut in that darn thing, I had to talk myself down from a slight panic attack. Next, its time for the I/V for contrast ... he looks at my veins in my whimpy left arm and says, boy these are small veins. Not what I wanted to hear. Then he says that the needle is the size of my vein ... now I have to tell him that he has me even more nervous. I asked if he could put it in my hand, since that is where they put it in for my port removal, he said nope. Thankfully he did only one poke, although had to tweek around the needle to get things working. By this point I have my right hand over my face, thankfully I'm laying down or I would have probably been on the floor. Anyway, didn't get home until 8:30 last night, just in time for bed. Should hopefully have results on Friday. Havn't heard anything from my mamo, I know that they we're ordering up my old films to do some comparisons. No news is good news !!! Bottom line, I'm now kinda freaking out about having my Zometa infusion via I/V.

Kris, AWESOME news gal ... I've popped a cold "one" in your honor as well. Let's hope that we will all be sharing some great news with upcoming appts.

D1, hey I'm willing to travel anywhere ... so atleast maybe we've come a bit closer to firming up a timeframe. This will not be an easy task to accommodate everyone. I chatted with my dh, decided that this would be a solo trip for me as well.

So Megace and a glass of vino, huh? I swear that my emotional rollercoaster comes and goes. I have never documented the exact days/week that I have the "weepies", but I'd bet my left hoot it has something to do with my non-existent time of the month.

Thanks for the tip on the washer ... our very nice sales lady mentioned that too.

Therese, it's always great to hear from you.

Just a guess ... but I bet you sport a short "do" very well. From your little pic, you look like a beautiful woman.

I have the hunch that a colon... will be in my future sooner than later as well.

Kathy, hoping that the bug is short lived and that your kids stay healthy with Christmas just around the corner. Hey I'm with you, lets bag winter and go straight to spring!!!

Paula, there you are again, hitting it early in the morning for your students.

Aahh, great news that Ed is having some "good" days. Will he be on chemo holiday through Christmas?

So now that I have a tree up, I better get started on my shopping. I did get your e-mail regarding on-line shopping, thanks!

Norma, so hoping that you had some encouraging news with your u/s today.

Bummer on the spin-out, thankfully there was just damage to your car and not you. We are expecting our first snowfall of the year this weekend. Lucky me, I will be traveling up north (about 2 ½ hrs from home) for my ds' skate meet. We'll be heading out after school tomorrow, spending the night and returning Sat for my work X-mas party and ds' work, then back up north Sat night for the remainder of the competition on Sunday. Hoping to keep the shiny side up on my suv!!!

Cathy, so I commited to the 2009 3-Day today. My hesitation is definitely the time commitment for the training, this year I will probably do many more walks closer to home so that it does not interfere with so many family activities in the summer. It was kinda wierd to erase my participation page from last year and start fresh ... let the fun begin !!!

Time for some chow ... I'll be Blackberrying from Burlington this weekend,

Carol

Donna1955 · December 2008

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY JANUARY JEWELS

I know its been a long time since i was on here, but I got a card from d1 and thought I really should update everyone and see how everyone is doing.

I made it thru chemo, double masect., reconstruction, the exchange.......everything has been great up until 4:30pm today, ono called with pet scan results from monday...... Frown two small nodules in my lung with some swelling, so ......now we have to wait and see, going to do blood test for tumor markers in a couple of weeks and a ct scan.....hopefully its nothing but she sounded really sad......stating with triple negative and mine cancer was 87% agressive but I beat once and hopefully I won't have to beat again but if I have too I could do it again

Hopefully everyone is getting ready for Christmas.....I still have lots to do all though we are cutting way back do to the economy and all the medical expenses we have had this year.

I read quite a few posting tonight in trying to catch up and will read more tomorrow

ANYWAY WITH LOVE TO THE JEWELS

ARIZONA DONNA

JulieK_11_30_07 · December 2008

Wow! You girls have been chatty this week!! I'm popping in from work, but wanted to add a special post for Kris!!! AND -- happy anniversary to our thread!! My one-year was yesterday -- happy to still be here to "celebrate" it!

I hope to catch up this weekend!! Happy Friday girls!!

Julie

Anonymous · December 2008

Hey Donna, hang in there girl. Could be nothing on the nodules. I have one on my lung that shows up in every scan. Hasn't grown a bit. These things can come from an infection, smoking, lots of causes. I'm crossing my fingers that yours is nothing to worry about too.

KathyL · December 2008

Carol: Sorry to hear your friend Steph is not doing well.

Donna: I second what LJ said. Let's hope that nodule is not concerning after further evaluation!

Hello to everyone else who posted. I'm almost done here for the day. Busy weekend ahead, and I still have no voice! So glad you are reading and not having to hear my croaky voice! Have a great weekend Jewels!

golfer779 · December 2008

TGIF

Just a quick thank you to my last SP Norma (PALady). I received the coolest package with all sorts of treats. Believe it or not our X-mas tree is done in a nautical theme with lighthouses included. We actually have numerous lighthouse pics in our home as well. Thanks Norma, I did figure you out!!!

Donna, I was happily surprised to see you had posted, now I know where to send my positive vibes for some encouraging reports on your lung. Keep us posted if your able. Missed ya gal !!!

Well almost time to get off the ferryboat, the ds and I are off to his meet. Looks like we may have dodged the weather tonight ... Whew!

Enjoy your Friday evenings, Carol

Cathy-CA · December 2008

Got the packing done, presents wrapped, Christmas cards in the mail, so I guess I'm ready to leave tomorrow on vacation! I want to echo everyone else's thoughts on how special this group has been.

Carol -- so glad you decided to sign up again. I'm lucky that our training is only about 10 miles away and since most of that is freeway miles, it's about a 15 minute drive early on Sunday mornings.

Paula -- I'm so glad that Ed is doing better. If I can count the three weeks correctly, he won't have more chemo until after the holidays. Thank you so much for my SP gift. I will enjoy it!

Kris -- wonderful news. So glad it was negative.

Donna -- keep thinking good thoughts. There's a lot of stuff that shows up on tests that turn out to be nothing.

Kathy -- hope you voice recovers soon.

D1 -- how about San Antonio as a more central location? The River Walk is a lot of fun although it will be hot in late June. Another thought is Park City, Utah. Since Salt Lake City is Delta's hub, flights are normally pretty reasonable and Park City in the summer in wonderful (and cheap).

Therese -- I have my first colonoscopy after the first of the year. My internist will give me the slip when I see her in January. It was one of the things that was delayed due to bc treatment.

Have a great weekend and week. I'll be thinking of you as I'm cruising the Caribbean. We're in Key West on Monday, Belize on Wednesday, Guatemala on Thursday, Costa Maya (Mexico) on Firday and then back to Tampa and flying home Sunday.

RN2teach · December 2008

Cathy- BON VOYAGE! Can I stow away in your luggage? Cool Glad you liked the gift. I saw BS on VH1 recently and thought of you.

Kathy- nuts! I was hoping you'd stay well. Fix yerself a hot toddy tonite.

Kris- three cheers for the good path report! Lifting my glass in a toast.

Therese- now that's what I call the works! So, hopefully you got good reports from head to toe. I hear you on the short do. Get lots of compliments, but then again I was bald six months ago, so I guess anything is an improvement over that, huh? Laughing

D1- I sure hope the Megace works for you. Remember, all those side effects have to be listed if even one person reports having them. Keep us posted...

Carol- I'm bummed to read the latest on Steph. Cancer SUCKS!!!

Julie- we've come a looonnng way in 2008, haven't we? I'm happy-dancing with you on being alive and reasonably healthy... hmmm, wonder what UNreasonably healthy would look like...

Donna- I'm so sorry you didn't get good news on your PET scan. I'll chime in with LJ and Kathy. The tricky thing about getting these scans is there are so many false positives. I'll be praying that your markers and CT will r/o a recurrence. The whole recurrence thing is pretty scary, isn't it? ((HUG)) Hang in there!

My PET scan in Sept. showed a nodule on my liver. My surgeon was very matter-of-fact about it--called me NED and didn't even mention the liver (I got the report and learned that little tidbit myself). I'll have tumor markers in Jan. and a PET in March. Until then, I'm trying not to borrow trouble.

BUT, speaking of borrowing trouble... I found a lump in my right axilla yesterday. When I raised my arm it appeared that the skin was retracting right where the lump is...and it is painful (which is new). So, I called my surgeon this morning and managed to get my mammo (due anyway) and an ultrasound this afternoon. A friend of mine works at the rad facility and they treated me well-- even got to talk to the radiologist, who believes it is just a lymph node that is hardened from the rads. I'll see my surgeon Monday for his take, but I feel much better after seeing the pictures-- it doesn't look anything like my tumor from last year.

So, I cried this morning when I asked my buddies at work to cover for me this afternoon so I could get my mammo... and I cried this evening after I got the initial findings... I am usually not given to tears. I can't remember ever shedding a tear with my initial diagnosis, although I've shed many for dh. And I'm not on any hormones, D1. Got figure...

Happy weekend to all. We've got about 4 inches of snow here. It will be a bit chilly putting the outdoor decorations up, but I'm gonna do it anyway!

Paula

PAlady · December 2008

D1 - I had the guide wire procedure done too. I was very scared as I heard from more than one person that was the most painful part of the lumpectomy/sentinel node procedure. My surgeon had me put emla (sp?) cream on the area and tape it up with saran wrap for two hours before I got there and I never felt a thing! I couldn't believe it. I don't know why more drs don't try to do something to prevent that pain.

I don't get why anti-depression medicine always seem to have weight gain as a side effect. It seems to be so ironic. Better make that appointment girl. Get it over with.

Kris - You are crazy! I don't believe you were back at work. I am so glad you got a clean PET. Awesome about your path results - congrats.

Paula - Glad dh is getting back to normal. What a roller coaster ride. Is your onc doing a PET every year? How scary about your lump. Sounds like it will be nothing. Nice that they got you in so quick. What an emotional day.

Kathy - hope you are feeling better. Who wants to be sick at this time of year?! No, I haven't had my hair cut. I've had it highlighted twice but she hasn't even needed to shape it yet. Are you going to keep your hair shorter or just cutting it to shape it as it grows?

Therese - Are you cutting your hair just to shape it? I have had a lot of people not recognize me with my hair short and curly - sometimes I think that is a good thing! Other times I need to not be offended if someone ignores me. Tonight dh and I were at Sam's Club and the cashier did a double take when she looked at my membership card. I just smiled to myself.

Carol - So sorry to hear about Steph. That has got to be hard for you. Hope you results are all clear.

Donna - Hugs to you. You seem to have the right outlook. Will keep positive thoughts flowing your way.

Cathy - You are organized! Have a safe and pleasant trip. I hope you have great weather. I figured you would have some good ideas for our trip being the traveler that you are.

My US appointment got moved to this morning. Dr. was very happy with it. The nodule that was seen last visit was gone and that was one that they weren't sure what it was. I currently have 3 small cysts but they are definitely follicular cysts which are normal. The pain was much less significant this month, too. She said she thinks it is just my body trying to adjust to all the changes from the hormones and tamoxifen. It would be great if it just settles now. She also talked to me about having my ovaries out. If I were 50 she would want to do it. She said the main disadvantage for doing it at my age (43) would be the chance for bone loss. Since my onc wants me to do the Lupron shots which will shut down my ovaries she wants me to get more info from him and then I am going to meet with her again next month just to chat. If he just wants to do them for 6 months or so , ok. But, if he is planning on doing them for years - why bother, just get them taken out. The other thing that I don't like is that even if you have the shots, you still have to use birth control. Blah.

My onc had ordered a bone density scan for Monday in order to try and get the zometa that I want to have approved. I got a call today that my insurance won't pay for the test, so he is supposed to talk to me about it when I see him on Tuesday.

As far as switching oncs, I talked to a friend of mine and I think I am going to wait till I get through all these decisions on the ovaries and to a point of just regular follow ups, and then switch. She is seeing the new onc in January and will let me know how she likes her.

For the trip, I don't plan on bringing my dh. I don't want to have to worry about whether or not he is enjoying himself.

Thank you to my SP! I got some great Christmas pot holders and kitchen towels.

Have a great weekend ladies!

Determined1 · December 2008

So that Megace hit me pretty hard. I took my first one Thursday night at about 10p and toddled off to bed. I awoke at 4am to a heart racing so hard I was breathless. I laid in bed and did every mind control trick I knew to slow it down. Scary as shit. Anyway, then I start having this mother of a hot flash. Sweat dripping down my sides, neck, soaking the sheets. As soon as that abated (heart is still racing, but not as scary), I realize I'm mega thirsty, so I decide to head to the bathroom for a drink. As soon as I stood up, the room went black and I was "this close" to passing out. Eventually got the drink and got back in to bed. Then I tried to chill out, lower my heart rate, and get back to sleep-which I did after a couple of hours. So, I called my onc yesterday to report. Funny, sometimes he's so hard to reach, but his nurse had him on the horn in minutes when I talked about the racing heart. He said that is not a side effect for Megace, but that didn't mean it wouldn't cause it in me. He was hesitant to put me in danger's way, but he wanted me to try taking the drug in the morning (this morning-which I have done) and monitor my reaction during the day. Get this, if my heart races again and I have pain, I'm to high-tail it to an ER. He thinks since the drug is an appetite stimulant (that's the gain weight part), that it may have a stimulation effect to me that I could possibly handle during my waking hours. I feel like a walking test lab.

Other than that, I'm filling my time with the anxiety of the holidays, like everyone else! I really need to get on my shopping-that always makes me feel better. I think we're getting our tree today to decorate tomorrow (a real tree for me-I grew up in a house of people with allergies to trees and didn't get a real tree till I was an adult). That always makes me happy, but then there's that empty space underneath it that needs to be filled...

Carol-I have teeny veins, too. They have to use the IVs for small children on me (I really hate it when I tell them that and then they try to stick an adult IV in there and fail). Perhaps you could try requesting the smallest set up they have. I find I'm getting more demanding with these needle-bearing people-I'm realizing I have enough experience to know what will work (now that's pathetic). Let us know what they say about your reports.

So sorry to hear about Steph. You describe his courage so poignantly. I'll continue to keep him in my thoughts.

Keep that SUV shiny side up (lol).

AZDonna! Great to hear from you. I'm going to jump on the bandwagon started by LJ and KathyL and say get your nodules checked nine ways to Sunday, but try to keep your freak out level low. I think false positives are going to be the bane of our existence now-and I'm hoping that's all you have. You're encouraging me to follow up and be a big girl and get my CT scan to doublecheck a mass in my lungs (I've been keeping my head in the sand over it because, quite frankly, I don't want to know, but your bravery makes me want to suck it up). Please let us know the report.

Hey Julie-happy cancerversary!!!!! Sorry the rest of us are so lame that we don't know how to include those moving pictures in our posts, but I'm happy to see you doing your own happy dance!

I guess there's one thing I don't miss about younger kids, KathyL, and that's how many illnesses they so generously share with their parents! Hope you're feeling better soon.

Your cruise sounds great, CathyCA. I hope you have fabulous weather. Feel the sun shine on your face and be happy.

Paula, Paula, Paula. Can you PLEASE catch a break? I will say between scar tissue and leftover (lame-o) lymph nodes in my left axilla, I have quite a bit of constant pain. Everything is really hard under there and I've been told the farther away from rads I get, the more softening I can expect. I'm hopeful that will mean the pain will subside, too. Good news is that the hard wad is ping pong ball sized now and last Spring it was like a baseball and I couldn't rest my arm by my side. So maybe that's all you have. Try not to get too anxious this weekend-there isn't anything you can do about it till you get the news from your med team (that is SO easy to say, isn't it???).

Yeah, I'm perpetually weepy, too. Just yesterday I had a 10 minute drive and found myself with tears streaming down my face twice. Once was because I was thinking about how much dd wants to go to Vassar and we find out on Monday if she gets in. And the other was over some stupid bumper sticker that got to me. I'm a mess. I'm hoping the Megace works better today.

You're lucky your guide wire wasn't too unpleasant, PALady. I had all that numbing, too, but once they got the sucker in to my boob I could feel every millimeter of movement as it traveled through my poor baby and was completely and totally freaked out. It really was the worst experience for me. I will not EVER do it again without a general. Let the techs deal with my limp body in the MRI machine!

Yeah, we're laughing around here about the weight gain/depression thing. To me, nothing will depress me more than putting on any more weight, but we'll see. Dh promises to continue to love me even if I get chunky-this from a guy currently wearing braces to straighten his teeth and undergoing treatments to remove/reduce acne scar tissue that has bothered him since his teens (he's already whitened his teeth). In my teary moments I really lash out at him over how he's making improvements to his body and I'm deteriorating (scars, half a boob, le, shall I go on?). It always makes for interesting drama around the house (hello Megace!).

Wow, you have a lot of research and decisions to make, don't you? It's so funny to me how they treat us all so differently based on age. It comes up all the time in my appointments, too. It always makes me feel old since I'm over that 50 year old threshold. I don't feel 50...

Anyway, good luck with your choices, I know you'll do the right thing for you.

My new SP sent me an iTunes gift card-WoooHooo! Right up my alley. I've already been wandering around the iTunes store scoping out the music I MUST have! Thanks, SP!!!

Okay, off to pay attention to my heart. I'll let you know how it goes.

D1

JulieK_11_30_07 · December 2008

Happy Saturday, Jewels! Crazy day today - my ds has eight of his friends over for a full-day airsoft war/birthday party! Not sure what I was thinking when I agreed to this! They're all spending the night tonight too - I know.... I'm crazy! Foot in mouth

I can't believe how busy it's been on here! So great to see some of you that haven't posted in a while.

First, D1 - THANK YOU for my SP gifts!! I did NOT figure out that it was you - you're pretty tricky with the return addresses - Florida, Texas.... I was pretty confused! Loved everything and can't wait to dig into those peanuts! BTW - I did love the CD too!! I have it in my car and play it all the time on my long drive to/from work!

What a scare you had! Hope the change in when you take your megace helps - stay on it and keep calling that doc if you're not happy with how you're feeling. I remember you mentioned that Effexor is one medication they may put you on too. Just so you're aware, I was on that for migraine prevention several years ago and, although it worked pretty well, I gained over 40 pounds and went off of it because of how depressed I was about gaining so much weight - yah, it's an anti-depressant too - makes no sense!

Good choice on the plates!! Tongue out

Kris - I cannot believe you already went back to work! What a woman!!! Hope your drains are slowing down and you can get them out shortly.

Paula - so glad to hear that Ed is having some relief. Uuuuggh on the lump you found - sending positive vibes that it will be nothing. I'm glad they were able to get you in for tests so quickly! Hang in there - hopefully D1's post gave you a little relief.

Kimberly - so glad to hear that Kathleen's surgery went well. Wow - what a long day for you both!! Congrats to your school!! What a great recognition! Hope your consult goes well about the hyst/ooph! Let me know if you have questions about anything - mine was about three years ago.

Carol - hope the skate tourney goes well this weekend and the weather doesn't cause you any travel problems! Remind me when it is that you're going to be in Peoria?? I'm so sorry to hear that Steph isn't doing well - I'm keeping him in my prayers and hope that his pain isn't too great. I'm glad you got to spend a little time with him.

I'm IN for a Jewel get-together - I'll most likely be husband-less on this trip - someone has to stay home and take care of the rugrat and all the animals, after all! As of now, June 19-21 works for me too and I'm okay with any location - whatever works for everyone else.

Sherry - Yippee for you! I'm glad you were able to quit K-Mart and focus on your other job. 40 hours is plenty to be working and you need at least a little time to take care of yourself!!

Norma - You look great! Love your new avatar - my hair is getting to the stage that yours was when we met up and I do have some curl in it too. I get compliments all the time on mine too - don't like it this way but just glad to actually have some hair. So glad only the car ended up hurt after you ended up in the ditch! We're expecting a "wintry mix" on Sunday night that's supposed to continue through Wednesday - not looking forward to that! It's our last week of school before break and we're supposed to have exams Wed, Thurs, Friday. Should be interesting if we end up with any snow days!!

I'm so glad your us showed no new concerns!! That's great news!!

Kathy - so sorry to hear you've been under the weather. I hope you're able to get some relief soon.

Wow, Therese - sounds like you've been keeping plenty busy!!! Good to see your post! That colonoscopy prep just sucks, doesn't it?! Hope all of your results come back soon with good news. Keep us posted!

Maz - HAPPY B-DAY - hope you had a great day! This one's for you!! (Sorry I'm late with it.)

Donna - sorry to hear that you have a new worry - I'm praying that everything turns out okay for you. It sounds like several Jewels have had similar issues that ended up being nothing. Let's hope the same for you - hang in there, dear.

Cathy - I'm thinking I missed the send off, but I'm thinking of you and hope you have a wonderful trip!!!

Hope you all have a great weekend!! I'm guessing I'll be up quite late tonight with all the boys here. They've been outside for their first "milsim" (military simulation) for almost an hour now. Their goal is for it to last at least five hours - we'll see!!

Off to write some final exams - fun, fun!!!

Julie

golfer779 · December 2008

Well I'm back on the ferryboat returning from a disappointing skate meet. The ds wiped out, landed on another competitor skate and popped his knee cap out of it's socket. It did pop back in, there was a great doc (family practioner) and skater as well that checked him out. Her recommendation ... Definitely no more skating this weekend. We iced him down for a couple hours, it is a bit swollen, but he is actually doing pretty good. With that said, I took the ds' skates (which are stinking up my car!) and helmet (I don't want any temptation) and I'm returning home, left the ds with the coach and his bf, to cheer on the team, as he begged me, and I discussed my decision to let him stay with the attentend (off-duty) doc.

I'll be going to my work X-mas party tonight, and entertaining guests tomorrow for my fil's birthday. Not what I'd thought I would be doing this weekend, but will roll with the punches.

Okay, chatted with the ds at 8:30pm our time, doing fine, little stiff (no surprise) and sounding miffed that I would call to check on his well being ?? Gotta love a 16 1/2 year old ... Julie, a sleep over at our home at this point which I'd hope the ds would think was cool, would be COOL !!! You go Mom !!!

I'll be reading the posts later on, hope all is well with everyone.

Carol

Anonymous · December 2008

My big sweet lug of a cat saw another cat outside the other night and got all worked up in a lather (he's very protective of his domain). I was trying to keep him out of the window and with all his adrenaline flowing, he turned and bit my leg. I didn't think it had broken the skin since it didn't bleed, but an hour or so later going to bed, I put some peroxide on it and it foamed. Dam. Dam. Dam.

About 80% of cat bites that actually puncture the skin get infected. I've had one on my hand years ago, and the finger swelled up to twice its normal size within hours.

So, just to be cautious (the new normal), I went to the primary care doc yesterday and got a tetanus shot and he put me on Amoxicillin for 10 days. Oh joy. Jamming in the acidophilus to prevent unpleasant side effects.

It's funny because this is the gentlest cat I have ever known (truly) ... he just becomes Mr. Hyde when he sees another cat outside.

KathyL · December 2008

Read all the weekend posts and will try to comment tomorrow... keep the posts light until then (hahaha!). But had to reassure LJ some. I think cat bites are worst in the hands and face. So, you're right about the frequency of infections, but maybe you'll fare better since it's your leg. And peroxide foams all the time, so no worry there! Eats some yogurt too to ward off the poops. Hard to believe our little furry kitties are really tigers inside, huh? Feel better

RN2teach · December 2008

Got the Christmas decorations outside today. It was in the upper 50s. All the snow is gone and it was perfect weather to be outdoors. We draped the porch rails in pine and added clear lights and red bows. Just enough to make it look festive. Not exactly "Griswold" material, but we have plenty of those around and I don't try to compete-- although I do enjoy marveling over their displays (with my sunglasses on, of course)!

Norma- Good news that the nodule that had you and your onc. worried is now gone! Now if those pesky cysts would just go away... Insurance companies can be such a PITA, can't they? I hope you'll contact them and appeal their denial on the bone density. It may be that the onc's office didn't present it with the right codes...

My surgeon has suggested having my ovaries out, even though I'm triple negative and my tumor didn't feed on the hormones.... I guess I'm at higher risk of getting a tumor that is hormone receptor positive as well as another triple neg.

I'm not feeling so panicky about my lump since I saw my mammo and US. I'm a little embarrassed at how much I freaked at the possibility of a recurrence. Sheesh!

D1- dang, girl! With those kind of SEs on the first night, I'd say you're pretty brave to pop another dose of Megace. I'm just hoping you made it through the weekend without a trip to the ER....

Julie- Love the new avatar! I hope you had a restful day today after yesterday's big birthday bash.

Carol- Ow! How's Zach moving around today?

LJ- Amazing how unpredictable cats can be, huh? I've got a big boy who can go from mellow to monster in 5 seconds or less. Only his problem is that he is afraid of anyone outside the family and he'll tear anyone up who stands in the way of his hiding places. Silly boy. Sounds like you've taken all the right precautions for your injury. Hope you heal quickly!

It's getting late... better hobble off to bed!

Paula

chj127 · December 2008

Hi all!

Jeez, it's so hard to keep up here, and I hardly know where to start!! It is amazing that I've been hanging out with you all for such a long time. My lump surgery 1-year anniversary was on Saturday (12/13). DH and I toasted to it, but it passed without much fanfare. The ironic thing is that my first mast surgery was also December 13, in 1994. Not as hard to remember anniversaries when they are the same friggin' day!!

Norma - I just had to comment on the switching oncologists thing. When I was referred to the onc last December, it was this amazing woman who had just come to the cancer center where I go and her reputation was sooooo positive. I was looking forward to working with her but the day before my first appt. she was in a bad car accident. I then was moved to another (male) onc at the last minute, who did all my chemo, etc. He's really a very nice guy, and I have no doubts about his skills or his treatment decisions, but I just never connected personally with him, and I just don't think he really hears me when I talk about what's going on with me. Like I said, he's nice, but very clinical. I tried once in the middle of my chemo to switch back to the woman onc, but she was still not ready to take on new patients. When I saw the surgeon (and breast center coordinator) a few weeks ago, I asked him if there was any reason why I couldn't switch even now for my ongoing onc followup. He said of course not, and had the breast coordinator set it all up. So I see her January 5th. As I was getting all the records transferred, etc., the old onc actually called me on the phone to find out why I was switching. Oh, what an uncomfortable conversation!!! But I told him (part of) the truth, that he didn't do anything "wrong", I just would feel more comfortable with a woman onc. So we parted friends.

Anyway - bottom line is that if you want to switch, just do it!!

For those of you considering the ooph - me too... I'll be anxious to hear what the new onc has to say, but I'm pretty sure I'm going to do it - in the spring, when I don't have to worry about a snowstorm that day!

LJ - bummer about your cat. I hope you're healing up OK. I actually had a cat once turn and try to rip my nose off. It was (as you said) one of the sweetest cats I know, but she was freaked out by another cat. They can be unpredictable. I used to volunteer at the Balto. County Humane Society, and there was a cat in there that was particularly snarly when she was put back into her cage. She had done some damage to a couple of people. She had a bad time of it at the shelter, and it's a very long story, but she's lived at my house for going on 10 years now, and hasn't hurt a flea since. >^..^<

Did I hear someone say, "reunion"? Sounds like fun! No promises here, but I don't have many scheduling issues. It would be nice if where ever we go is close to an airport - a major one with direct flights from lots of places...

I went on a 3-day trip to Williamsburg VA last week. So much fun, the decorations this time of year are awesome. It was a bus trip from our community, and on the way back I found out that one of the other women who was on the trip is also a 2-time survivor. We're planning lunch after the holidays to compare notes.

That's all I have time for right now. I will try to do better at keeping up!!

CHJ

Jan 2008--Ain't it Great?

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