Starting chemo Dec 2007

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  • kimbly
    kimbly Member Posts: 398
    edited December 2008

    I had the my exchange surgery yesterday btw forgot to mention.  All went well and just a little sore.  I did come home with a drain which I hope comes out in a few more days.  I have yet to check out the doctor's handiwork but it is nice to have that thing out of my armpit and off my ribs. 

  • wishiwere
    wishiwere Member Posts: 3,793
    edited December 2008

    {{Cindy}} Prayer the results are B9 as you hope on the scan!

    {{Kimbly}}, owy!  Hope your not feeling too poorly with the drain and exchange.  I can't imagine goign through more surgeries! UGH for you :)  Hope your results are more than you expect at the unveiling! :D

    {{Joy & Kelley}} keeping you in thoughts and prayers always dears! 

  • kimbly
    kimbly Member Posts: 398
    edited December 2008

    Doing quite well today.  Drain still in and looks like I will be waiting until at least Thursday to get it out.  PS took it out so quickly after my mast. i was hoping for same, but it is better then having swelling or any other complications I suppose.  I need to get the drainage down to 15 or less in 24 hours. At least I can drive around just not long distances...

    Joy and Kelly you are in my thoughts always.  

    Hope everyone else is doing well.  Busy with holiday stuff I am sure... 

  • wishiwere
    wishiwere Member Posts: 3,793
    edited December 2008

    Man, Hope for you that Thursday is the day for removal too! Those things are just a pain.I didn't realize you'd have one after the exchange, thought it was just for the initial mast.  Learned something new today :)

    I think Kelly is home till Thursday? Or does she come back to her mom on thursday?  Oh my, I'm so out of sync with what day it is lately:(

  • JeannieBell
    JeannieBell Member Posts: 38
    edited December 2008

    {{{Joy and Kelley}}} -- still thinking of you and praying for the best!   I hope all is well and pray your strength returns soon.... you are a brave soul!

     Any of you had reconstruction yet?  I know I remember reading months ago some of you had, but I can't remember who or to what extent....I hope to have recons. this summer...but don't think I want to do the "tummy tuck" thing... I'm just chicken I guess... Lord knows I could use one, but that is Major - Major Surgery... right?  I'm thinking that I'll just opt for the implants which means I'll have to have the expander (?)... could someone fill me in on what to expect? 

    I have my last Herceptin Dec. 19, 2008... Wooo Hoo!!! 

    My onc. suggested that I go ahead and have my port removed within the next few weeks following the last treatment.   I have never been able to get a blood return from my port (except the first 2 treatments)  it is not able to be used for my bloodwork, so he says there is no use to keep it in... I would just have to go every month to have it flushed and then have to worry about infection etc..  I mean, I never really had any trouble out of it, don't really even know it's there until the seat belt rubs it, or I lay on my side sleeping or something... any advice on the port removal?

    Love and Blessings,

    Jeannie 

  • bibliowarrior
    bibliowarrior Member Posts: 200
    edited December 2008

    Kelley/Joy,

    Thank you for thinking of us, to keep us informed... you have so much to do already, I don't know how you remember it all. I'm keeping you in my prayers, as we all are. Please, please, please may these treatments work.

    Cindy, keep us posted regarding your bone scan. Prayers for you too.

    Amy says that she finished her Hercepetin tx. Yippee for her!!! Good news is welcome news. 

    Hugs to everyone,

    Sally 

  • bibliowarrior
    bibliowarrior Member Posts: 200
    edited December 2008

    Kimbly,

    Hope you are continuing to do well. Hope you get the drain out tomorrow as planned. I'm sure you'll feel loads more comfortable then.

    Hugs,

    Sally 

  • kimbly
    kimbly Member Posts: 398
    edited December 2008

    I did get the drain out on Thursday thank goodness.  I was surprised that I had a drain as well, I was told that I would.  My PS would rather this then swellling or slow healing.  I am just glad it's gone now! I am a tad lopsided though. My PS said we could either but an implant on my healthy side or change out the implant on the mast. side.  I am so thinking I should have done the bilateral and have it done with.  

    Had haircut #2 this week as well.  Still short but each cut gives me more shape to my hair.  

    Amy congrats on finishing that herceptin.  I have only a few more myself and then my port will come out. YAY...  

  • wishiwere
    wishiwere Member Posts: 3,793
    edited December 2008

    Kimbly!  So glad it's out!  Don't you feel sooooooooo much better without that thing!  I didn't 'mind' the drain, just a pain with those hoses and hoping I didn't pull it out myself at night!  Eeeek!  Didn't I hear it takes a while for those to settle and some swelling to go down also? Hope it's not going to be more surgery for you, but that you'll be happy with the results! :D 

    Hoping for an update this weekend from Kelly I hope~  Maybe mom is home and doing better I hope and pray.....

  • kgodwin03
    kgodwin03 Member Posts: 11
    edited December 2008

    Hello to my Mothers dear friends,

    I am so sad to tell you that my Mother, Joy,  passed away this weekend.  She was never alone while she was in the Hospital and she spent her last afternoon planning the details of opening a doughnut shop with my 12 year old daughter.  She slipped away peacefully in her sleep.

    I don't know how we will get through this, but hopefully time will help...

    She said many times that she could not have made it through the last year without all of you and your support.  I will be posting her picture when my husband gets home from this weekend.  I want you to see her, smiling.

    Thanks to all of you.  You are in our prayers, please keep us in yours. 

    So very sad,

    Kelley

  • clsd
    clsd Member Posts: 101
    edited December 2008

    Dear Kelley, I cannot even begin to express how so deeply sad I am at this moment. All morning as I got the kids ready for school, I had Joy on my mind. When I saw you were the most recent to post, I had such a bad feeling in my belly. When I read your post I just lost it....Oh Kelley, we mourn the loss of your beautiful mother, grandmother, and our friend whom we completely loved and prayed for.....My family and I will will continue to pray for your family during this extremely sad time. Remember, though, your mom's spirit lives on in you. When my dad passed from cancer at 65, and even now a few years later, knowing that he is still alive in me, and my children, gives me peace. Tears continue to flow here in NJ: dear Kelley, be strong, you have all of us thinking of you. Love, Cindy

  • loriann
    loriann Member Posts: 139
    edited December 2008

    Dear Kelley, I am so sorry for the loss of your mother and our friend here.  I, too, had her on my mind this morning which is why I checked in here this morning.  Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.  I hope you can find peace and comfort in your happy memories.  Love, Lori

  • wishiwere
    wishiwere Member Posts: 3,793
    edited December 2008

    Oh my Goodness :(  {{{{{Kelly}}}}} and daughter, I am so very sorry that your mother (Joy) is no longer here with you.  I am at a total loss for words, just beyond my expectations for this.  I certainly did not expect to read this, ever.

    My heart and soul ache for you loss.  Please know that my prayers now will be for you to find comfort in the memories you had before this disease came into your lives. So many prayers and {{hugs}}.. 

  • bibliowarrior
    bibliowarrior Member Posts: 200
    edited December 2008

    Kelley,

    As the other ladies have already said, I am so very for your loss. Your mother was a fighter and certainly was an inspiration to us. My prayers and thoughts with you and your family at this very hard time.

    -Sally 

  • suz45
    suz45 Member Posts: 796
    edited December 2008

    Dearest Kelley,

    I am so very very sorry and heartbroken to here that Joy passed away. She meant so much to all of us, I never expected to here this. I am at a loss for words right now, I considered Joy to be a real friend and was looking forward to meeting her in real life one day. I send love and prayers to your whole family at this difficult time. I would love for you to post a picture of her here when you have the time. Again I am so sorry for your loss.

    Much Love Suz

  • beasgirl
    beasgirl Member Posts: 241
    edited December 2008

    Oh, Kelley, I'm so sorry. I have been thinking of your family, and am so shaken, and so sad.

    Thank you so much for writing, and telling us about your mom's final hours--it is very good to know she was in good spirits, and comfortable, and peaceful.  You are clearly a wonderful daughter, staying with her, keeping in touch with her friends--a mother couldn't ask for more. 

    We will all remember Joy with affection, and she will be deeply missed. Please come and check in with us if you would like to--we will be here.

    Love--Amy.

  • kimbly
    kimbly Member Posts: 398
    edited December 2008

    Kelley I am so very saddened by this news.  My heart goes out to you and your family.  My husband lost his father over the weekend and now with this news .. there is just so much sadness isn't there.  Your mom will be deeply missed.

    (((( hugs )))) love Kim 

  • wishiwere
    wishiwere Member Posts: 3,793
    edited December 2008

    {{Kim}} Please know you and your husband and family are in my prayers also. Yes, there is just too much sadness in the world and I hope this season brings some happiness to this world around us.  So sorry :(

  • JeannieBell
    JeannieBell Member Posts: 38
    edited December 2008

    Oh {{{{Kelley}}}}!   Such sad, sad news!  Just as everyone before me has posted, you and your family are most definitely prayed for, cared for, thought of and loved in so many ways.... your mom gave us so much "JOY", inspiration and hope!   She will be dearly missed!  If you are up to it, it would be wonderful if you would check in to let us know how you are doing from time to time and if there is anything I can do, please don't hesitate to ask.....

    My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!

    Much love and sorrow,

    Jeannie

  • kgodwin03
    kgodwin03 Member Posts: 11
    edited December 2008

    Kim,

    So sorry to hear of your Husbands Father!  Yes, plenty of saddness right now.  Knowing that others are praying for me has helped, I am praying for you and your family.  So sorry.  I am sure my Mom was there to welcome him to her new home...with doughnuts.

    Kelley & Joy in Heaven

  • wishiwere
    wishiwere Member Posts: 3,793
    edited December 2008

    {{Kelley}} Have to share that I lost my father 20 years ago, this news years morning....if he's not tending some fruit trees, or baking cookies up there, I'm sure he'll be in line for a doughnut from your mother to enjoy with his Irish Whiskey! :)  He used to welcome guests who spent the night in the 'cold room'  at our house with a shot in the morning! Funny man.  Our cold room was one room in the 100 year old house without a register.  As kids we left the door open, but guest seem to want to close the door when they sleep.  It's always blistering cold in there b/c it's over an unheated porch and facing the north winds off Lake Michigan on 2 sides.  Anyway...with all this rambling, just wanted to thank you for the memories when you mentioned your mom doing doughnuts in heaven. :)  He took up baking cookies after he was Dx with cancer,  and always had a garden.  Thank again for the memory jog :)

  • suz45
    suz45 Member Posts: 796
    edited December 2008

    Dearest Kelley,

    I decorate my christmas tree with only the most meaningful special ornaments that remind me of a special person, event, or occasion that touches my heart. Most are winter themed as I have a fondness to mountains and snow. Would it be possible for you to sum up something that was dear to your mums heart that I can add to my tree this year. I would search the world far and near to make it the perfect momento to add to my collection. I would treat it with the utmost care so I could treasure the memories that it will bring for years to come.

    My latest hunt right now is a ladybug "for me" that was my symbol of hope through treatment.Photobucket

    So If you can think of something I would be most gratefull

    Love Suz

  • clsd
    clsd Member Posts: 101
    edited December 2008

    Suz, LOVE LOVE LOVE your themed Christmas tree! Snowing here in NJ, kids are out sledding, and I'm just preparing for their snowy,wet return. xoxoxo cindy

  • suz45
    suz45 Member Posts: 796
    edited December 2008

    Thanks Cindy,

    We are just getting ready for a big snowstorm overnight..lol I havent even started my Christmas shopping yet. But not going to worry, the tree is up and looks so pretty. Ive sent some cards out, so thats about it except I need to shop for my dh & ds.... oh & I guess I should shop for a turkeyEmbarassed Figure I will be in a snowplow by about 2pm tommorow. Am expecting 8 - 12 inches of snow. I havent worked a plow in a long time so am really nervous, but I know I can do it.

    Love and hugs Ladies, Suz

  • wishiwere
    wishiwere Member Posts: 3,793
    edited December 2008

    Suz, be careful in the plow!  We used to have 4-5 storms a year here and this one we just had (they say one foot, the neighbor and us agree to 14inches), anyway, that was the 3rd major storm off the year and winter isn't till monday morning!  We too are due for somewhere around 5-12 before monday morning again and I just saw where there's another storm heading over here from oregon again!  UGH!

    Be good money though, IF i had a plow! :)

  • clsd
    clsd Member Posts: 101
    edited December 2008

    Hey beautiful December gals.

    Wanted to let you know there is a great new Youtube clip that reminds me of our support group sisterhood. Check out Kelly Corrigan and "Transcending: Words on Women and Strength". Kelly is a friend, bc survivor, and author of " The Middle Place": an AMAZING book, that comes out on paperback today.

    Sending love and wishes for WONDERFUL holiday to you and your families. xoxo Cindy

  • bibliowarrior
    bibliowarrior Member Posts: 200
    edited December 2008

    Happy holidays to all of you wonderful ladies, and warm wishes for our families and loved ones.

    Big hugs, Sally 

  • wishiwere
    wishiwere Member Posts: 3,793
    edited December 2008

    Many thoughts and prayers are sent out to each and everyone one of you that have spent the last year fighting this danged disease!  I'm so proud of all of you and so sad at losing Joy.  Mixed emotions for certain, but know that Joy is now without pain and worries and fear.  She is a part of our group, here or in heaven, but I think she'd like us each to remember her and to enjoy our times with family and friends as she would have chosen to do if it were one of us in her place.

    On that note, I want to wish each of you a very memory filled time over the holidays and all the best in 2009~  A year with SUCKAGE you all deserve!  Be healthy and happy dear friends!

    Kelley and family....you will stay in my thougths and prayers each day and it's my hope that your memories of the times you've shared with Joy will bring you all closer and even a bit of Joy which her name implies.  Except my prayers and {{{hugs}}}.

  • JeannieBell
    JeannieBell Member Posts: 38
    edited December 2008

    Hello Ladies!!!

    Just wanted to check in and hope that everyone had a Wonderful and Blessed Christmas.... Where did the year go?   I hope each and every one of you are beginning to feel back to your "old" selves.... I am just about there.. 99.9% .... still a few little aches and about 10-15 pounds that were not there before this journey began... but, that is okay with me ... just means I have to walk a little longer and faster on the tread mill ..the Holidays are just not the time to consider a "Diet Plan"  .. but hey, what are New Years Resolutions for, right? .. Take care Dec. Gals ...

    Love and Blessings to all!

    Jeannie

  • suz45
    suz45 Member Posts: 796
    edited December 2008

    My Dearest Freinds,

    Hope you are all well. Like many of you Dec has brought back many memmories of the year gone by. The good the bad and the unforgetable has been passed by and noted. What a year its been!

    Ive been very busy with work and that in itself has been different. I was ready to start sulking after spendiing way too many hours behind the snowplow Christmas Eve. Then I stopped and thought about where I was last year ( plucking quarter size chunks of hair from my head) I am so happy to be where I am, and so happy I had you all to help me through it. Reflecting on it now I realize Ive been blessed to have made all of you as friends.

    So much love and hugs are sent to you all, Love Suz

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