Anyone starting chemo in Aug. 08?

Options
1…4041434546…89

Comments

  • dlb823
    dlb823 Member Posts: 9,430
    edited February 2009

    Love the new avatars, ladies!  You all look great! 

    Lisa, I was very disturbed to hear about your brother's roommate.  You may not be aware of it, but a couple of very active and much loved women on this board passed away within the last few days.  And then to learn about your brother's roommate within the same time frame.  It just seemed overwhelming sad.  How is your brother doing?

    I, too, have been going wigless a lot.  My hair's coming in thick & curly, but I really dislike the steel gray color.  I tried a natural henna color on it, but it didn't last very long.  Anyway, I will try to post a new avatar soon.

    I've been wanting to get on Facebook, too, but am honestly a little afraid of spending any more time on the computer.  Last week my DH commented that he was thinking of getting Control, Alt, Delete tattooed on his body to get some attention from me, which really made me feel bad, since he's been my rock throughout this.  So, I'm trying not to spend quite so much time here.  I've been keeping up with everyone's posts, but tend to post more on the January Rads thread, as well as a couple of threads encouraging women who are recently diagnosed and just starting this journey.

    23 rads down and just 5 to go.  Alibug, thanks so much for the PM about Aquafor.  It's much better than the stuff I was using!

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • DesertRider
    DesertRider Member Posts: 178
    edited February 2009

    Hi Everyone,

    Just checking in and really amazed I'm having such similar hair experiences. Just returned from a client presentation where I went wigless.  They all knew I had BC but had not seen me without a cute wig. It IS really freeing to just get up & go - and I'm continually amazed that many people pass me by without a glance. 

    It seems I'm going to get radiation after all. My onc and surgeon both said I was not a candidate for radiation - but I insisted on a consultation and two radiologists said they thought it was a good idea based on the unclear margins in the axilla.  Just when I thought I was done with treatment - so I have been finding myself in tears at sudden moments - just feels over the top for health surprises. You are all very brave.

    with hugs,

    Gail 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited February 2009

    I am going to begin by going around the apartment complex wigless: mail, fitness center.

    On Saturday I am going to a birthday party with all friends. I will wear a hat to keep warm outside, then go inside and take it off.

    My next trip to the supermarket or bank will also be wigless.

    Baby steps. I am a little scared of this.

    Bette 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited February 2009

    I went out bare-headed to the mailbox, and it was 18 degrees. Brrrr!

    Bette 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited February 2009

    Good morning all!

    I am just so happy to be alive today.! My cancerous breast is gone, and you all have shown me that rads are doable.

    Have a great day!

    Bette 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • alibug05
    alibug05 Member Posts: 182
    edited February 2009

    Well ladies I got a good report yesterday and I was so glad.  My breast doctor did recommend that I get testing for genetics.  I was unsure but I will go ahead with it as it would be helpful to more people than just myself!!!!! Glad everyone is doing good!!! Loves to all..............

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • g94u67
    g94u67 Member Posts: 436
    edited February 2009

    Hi there everyone,

     Wow so much good news to catch up on!  Well I was down this week from TX#7 but I'm feeling much better.  My taste buds have finally returned! Only 1 more TX girls (2/20) and I can't wait! I told everyone @ my Dr's office I'm bringing the cake and sparkling cidar to celebrate. I return back to work full time next Tuesday.  I'm not totally ready but need to go back.  I'm so glad I took the last 6 months off for me.

    Tonya:  Thx for the positive words. My onc. also told me TN's arent't so rare and do very well.   My pastor also ended last weeks sermon with, "He's got the whole world in his hands" So that's my new jingle when I'm stressing!  I'm also sorry to hear about the passing of your friend. My condolences to you & your boyfriend.

    Bette:  Wow Bette you look incredible.  I'm so happy to hear about your Path report and clean margins! Amen.  What a relief.  Now you can concentrate on all the wedding details.

    Lisa: So sorry to hear about your rough time w/the RADS. Aquaphor is good stuff. I've used it. I'm also sorry to hear about your bro's roomate. I worry too about the chemo affecting my heart since heart disease is in our family. Uh cancer or heart attack? It's in God's hands.

    Corrine:  I'm so happy to hear you're recovering well from your mastecomy. Get all your rest.

    Misty: You look FABULOUS!  Really.  That trip did you good girl. (Think I need one). My hair is growing too but I don't think I can pull of the Avatar look as good as you.

    Gail: I'm sorry you're headed for RADS and feeling emotional.  On the plus side, we're almost done w/this battle.

    Deanna:  Please don't leave us!  I can relate to the time off the boards but your positive imput is so inspiring and reassuring to us Hot Baldy Avatars!

    Prayers & Hugs,

    Jeannine Cool

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • lisahugs1
    lisahugs1 Member Posts: 126
    edited February 2009

    Hello,,tody is a great day. My CAT and bonescan are CLEAR :)  Sooooo happy,,and ready to push forward into another chapter in my life :)  I was a bit intimidated about this,,,whic I'm sure will take a while not to be,,,,but I am YAHOOOOING today ladies :)  I plan on moving and taking back this wondeful life God has planned for my future.  Yippeeeee:)

    So glad to see everyone enjoying their now looks :)  Its great :)repeatedly saying to myself "When life gives us lemons,,,make lemonade".  And I read this story about a women going thru a divorce,,,her husband put her in a million dollar debt. She thought she would be homeless when she divorced him,,,and she kept saying to herself  "when life gives you lemons,,,make lemonade for someone else " :)  I was like OH MY GOSH,,,,because I know thats how God talks to me sometimes and lets me know I really am going to be ok. :)  That women at 47 divorced her husband,,,got her doctorate degree and is helping women that are in need,,and helping them to see they too can do it.

    I will be relocating by my mom i the end of March,,,leaving hubby here to finish school,,and figure out whats more important to him.  He has choosen his vicodine over his wife and baby  (due to a back problem). But has made no effort to try anything else :(  Very sad.

    I know someday I will look back at all of this and be at peace knowing I did this for that 6 month old baby girl, so she can have a healthy mom :)  Hugs Lisa

    I was reading a story in a magazine today and after

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • lisahugs1
    lisahugs1 Member Posts: 126
    edited February 2009

    Last line should have been deleted LOL:)

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited February 2009

    I am getting ready to go out to a party. After applying makeup to create the look of brows and lashes, I chickened out and put on a scarf. Depending on who is at the party, I may remove it when I get there.

    My aunt visited today. She is a retired nurse. I showed her my incision, and she said the surgeon did really good work. That's comforting to hear, since it doesn't look that good to me!

    I am tired, and my chest hurts, but I am going to the party anyway, because I feel like being around people. It has been a very lonely week. 

    Lisa, good for you for looking out for you and that precious baby!

    Bette 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • mamakaren
    mamakaren Member Posts: 225
    edited February 2009

    Hello gals,

    I'm back from my short vacation and it was GREAT!! I really had a soothing time, Had a couple drinks by the beach and watched the sun go down.

    Misty~ I love your hair style. I haven't been comfortable yet with my hair it's just growing so crazy but i'm sure that my day will come soon when i feel good about going wig less.

    I am with you on the LEMONADE issue! Just make the best of it and when we get tired of lemonade heck lets just throw in some cherries and make CHERRY LEMONADE!!

    I'm so glad everyone's doing good and hope everyone has a great weekend.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • g94u67
    g94u67 Member Posts: 436
    edited February 2009

    Whoo Who Lisa to your clear scans!  Awesome :)  While I'm sorry to hear about you and your hubby and your move, you sound so strong and determined.  God DEFINITLEY has a plan for you! I'm happy to hear you're going back to school.  Don't give up on the hubby yet.  You never know...

    Well this is my last day to be up late.  I hit the salt mine back on Tuesday. I just hope I don't get bombarded by too co-workers. It's been 6 months! HR made such a stink about my telecommuting that I refused.  I really felt my condition was exploited.  Oh well... I also hope I don't dissapoint my staff. Like you Lisa, I want to finish up my BA and start a new career. I am really considering a change. I'm no longer the same girl I used to be!

    Thinking of you all,

    Jeannine

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Misty1
    Misty1 Member Posts: 272
    edited February 2009

    Jeannine-good luck going back to work tomorrow.  I bet you are looking forward to getting over the last TX as well.  I hope you sleep well tonight-if not, take a "little something" to get you ready for tomorrow!!

    Lisa, great news about your scans.

    Bette, hope you are still recovering quickly and getting ready for the wedding.  How many days until the big day?

    Thank you for all of the compliments about my hair.  I am soooooooooooo glad I took the wig off.

    ~Misty

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Roya
    Roya Member Posts: 346
    edited February 2009

    Welcome back Mamakaren!!!!

    Lisa& Alibug  congrates on all the clear scans and good reports!!! Yes, Lisa, you have let your little daughter know how much you luv her in a mighty way!!  Now you can buckle down and look forward to raising her............also a challengeWink

    Misty, your hair looks great.

    Jeannine, the 20th will be here before you know it then everything will be done and over.  U are right, triple negs are not rare at all and we do very well indeed!

    Bette, rads is very very doable!  I will have my last one tomorrow.  I think I will do like Jeannine and take a bottle of sparkling cidar and a  'thank you' cake for the staff. 

    I feel like dropping to my knees and thanking God!!!!!!!

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Roya
    Roya Member Posts: 346
    edited February 2009

    I forgot to mention that my sister in San Francisco sent me some 'bag balm' because many docs recommend it for skin healing from rads despite its intended use, which is for udders.   By the say thousands of moms have had great success with it for diaper rash.  I have cut and pasted some info here.  It has really helped the skin of my breast to heal very quickly over the last 5 days!

    -------------------------------------------------------------

    Bag Balm is a salve originally intended to soothe irritation on cows' udders. Although the product only mentions use "For chapped conditions and superficial abrasions" it is used as a treatment for chapped and irritated skin on humans and can be found in drug stores and ski resorts. It has also gained popularity as a post-tattoo skin soother.

    Country singer Shania Twain is noted for using Bag Balm as a personal beauty product as is supermodel Carmen Dell'Orefice, who mentioned her use of the product in her 2008 Telegraph interview.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • mamakaren
    mamakaren Member Posts: 225
    edited February 2009

    Hello everyone,

    I also used Bag Balm and it works great for me. I use it still to this day! My breast is still a little dry but not to much. Thank God i never got really burned, I only got a little pink but that was all i really don't know if it was the Bag Balm but for all that are still getting rads try it! It really works for me. My breast are back to the original color. Roya let me know how it goes for you with the bag balm. My kids use that for every cut or booboo they get.

    Goodnight,   Karen

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Roya
    Roya Member Posts: 346
    edited February 2009

    Thank you Karen.  Well, today was my last rads.  I did take the staff a cake and sparkling cidar.  I had the baker write 'Thank You' on the cake.  They loved it!!!!  I also received a fun certificate signed by them, for completing the rads. Smile

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • dlb823
    dlb823 Member Posts: 9,430
    edited February 2009

    Hi, everyone!  I've been trying to keep up with all your posts, although I'd been too busy for a few days with my sister visiting to post myself. 

    Jeannine ~  You've really had a long haul with chemo, haven't you?  Just think how you'll feel when you walk out after that last one!!!  And, Lisa, I am thrilled to know that your scans were clear.  You are one strong woman, and I know God will bless you for honoring him through this very difficult time in your life.  Bette ~ Glad you're healing well from your surgery.  When do you see Tom again?  Karen ~ Glad you had a nice vacation, and I'm totally with you and Lisa on the lemonade!  And thanks for the tip about Bag Balm.  I've heard elsewhere that it's great for healing post-rads.  Misty ~ Love your new, glam avatar.  Hope you're still planning to be out here in early April.  Alibug ~ Thanks for the PM about Aquafor.  It was far better than the aloe vera gel my rad on had me on.  I'm using it now, as well as some Emu Oil I just added a couple of days ago, which is also very healing.

    Well,  I'm right behind you, Roya -- tomorrow is rad tx #28 for me -- my last one!  It's hard to believe how fast 5-1/2 wks. has gone by, although I think that is one of the lessons I've learned from this bc experience -- just how really fast time goes by.  Since my rad app't. is fairly early, I thought I'd thank my rad therapists with a basket of muffins. 

    Last week, my sister and I went to a medi spa-like place someone had recommended, and I had one of those ionic detox foot baths.  I'm still trying to figure out if what it does (pulls slug-like toxins out of your body into a footbath) is legit or not.  I just can't tell.  My DH and some on-line critiques I read were very skeptical.  But, if it really is doing any of what they say it does, it seems like it would be the best post-chemo & post-rads tx ever -- to get all that stuff out of our bodies.  Has anyone else done these txs or does anyone know anything about them?    

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • mamakaren
    mamakaren Member Posts: 225
    edited February 2009

    Hello gals,

    Has anyone heard of or tried Acai Berry to loose weight???? I am so tempted to try it, I have gained so much weight and don't know if it's the Herceptin or what. I'm in my cousins wedding in May and I want to look good like my normal self. I have gained about 20lbs since all this.

    Deanna~ It's so great to hear from you. Hope you and your sister have a great time.

    Roya~ CONGRATS!!!!! Happy for you always. I also got a certificate and it felt so gooood I haven't put it in my cancer journey book but i will soon.

    Have a blessed day!

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Misty1
    Misty1 Member Posts: 272
    edited February 2009

    Roya & Deanna-Huge CONGRATS on finishing rads.  I am so proud of both of you for finishing another step!!  Yes, Deanna, I will be out in your neck of the woods at the beginning of April!!

    Counting down to Jeanine's last chemo TX!!

    Karen, what's next for you?  Glad you had a nice trip.

    ~Misty

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • mommy3abm
    mommy3abm Member Posts: 221
    edited February 2009

    Hi everyone!  Wow to everyone's great news!!!  It has been a crazy few weeks here which is why I haven't been on in a while.  I am now a full time teacher!  They added another class of 4th grade at my kids school and I am the teacher.  The kids are great and MISTY1, like yours, the kids could care less about my "hair cut".  By the way, MISTY you look great!!!

    Anyone else care to join us on Facebook?

    Stacy

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • mamakaren
    mamakaren Member Posts: 225
    edited February 2009

    Misty~ I am on Herceptin for a year and have about 9 months to go! I still have a ways but overall it's not that bad i guess. Have a good day

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • DFOnt
    DFOnt Member Posts: 145
    edited February 2009

    One more rad for me! My skin is a mess and very itchy. Can't wait for it to start getting better.

    My hair has finally started to grow, I still look bald but at least there's something.

    Anybody here on Tamoxifen?  I got the prescription today but I think I'll wait until after the rad effects are gone to start. 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Misty1
    Misty1 Member Posts: 272
    edited February 2009

    Stacy, that's fantastic!!  Funny how well things worked out for you.  I know how sad you were last summer when you had to give up an opportunity.  you will definitely be busy.  What is the date schedule for your school?  Do you get a summer break?

    Karen, I just finished my 10th Herceptin last week.  I should be done this by early July.

    Deirdre-congrats on finishing rads.  I started Tamox on T'Giving.  So far, no real major problems.  Just some hot flashes at night.  It has kept "my monthly friend" away, so that has been a nice bonus!!  Good luck.  I was nervous about starting it, but it has been okay.

    ~Misty

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • g94u67
    g94u67 Member Posts: 436
    edited February 2009

    Hey everyone!

    Back at work and my lovely staff greeted me w/a wonderful welcome back banner (personalized ) w/ a bunch of treats.  It does feel weird being back but overall gratifying.

    Congrats Roya & Deanna on finishing RADS! You girlies did it!  Your trip to the spa Deanna w/your sis sounded relaxing and fun!  (I still have a Glenn Ivy cerfiticate I need to use up). 

    MamaK-My folks take the Monovie drink (expensive) loaded w/the Acai Berry.  I don't think they lost weight but it's loaded w/antioxidants. (I haven't taken because of the chemo).

    Thanks Misty.  I sure am counting the days until 2/20!  No more chemo. Yipeeee.

    Nice to hear from you Stacey & your new classroom.

    Take care all,

    Jeannine Laughing

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Misty1
    Misty1 Member Posts: 272
    edited February 2009

    Bump

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Roya
    Roya Member Posts: 346
    edited February 2009
    Congrats on returning to work Jeannine!Laughing
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited February 2009

    I just returned from the hospital AGAIN after being there since Sunday morning. Suffered chest pain in church as well as nasty chest congestion. Was admitted "overnight" to check for clots (none found) and then kept for IV antibiotics.

    Hopkins doctor called my local doctor to ask for evaluation and removal of my drain, so the drain is OUT. I feel so free. Am still having some pain in chest and arm on the surgery side. Managable with Advil.

     I have so much, medical and social on my calendar for the coming 6 weeks, that I am going to get as much rest as I can, and stay away from crowds, since I am not yet as strong as I hoped to be.

    Stacy, congrats on the teaching job!

    Jeanine, congrats on returning to work!

    Roya, congrats on finishing Rads!

    My first appointment with rads next week. They said 2-3 hours. Why so long? What are they going to do to me?

    Good evening to all.

    Bette 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • lisahugs1
    lisahugs1 Member Posts: 126
    edited February 2009

    Hi Ladies,

    I have been keeping up,,just have so much going on :(  My husbands now resorting to going to the ER  in secret (to get pain meds).  I have a skin infection under my arm that is a huge boil (hurts)  and it spread to my leg. I guess from from new hairs coming in,,and the bacteria is very contagious.  I saw the DR though and have meds now.

    Its alot. I hate being negative, I just feel like I am being weighed down. I planned on using our taxreturn to move.  My husbands ex got $2,500 for back childsupport.   I am learning soooo much during all of this :(  I didn't work,  so I get nothing :(  Lovely to say the least.   I know today is a bad day :( And I thankyou for allowing me to vent.  I am being raised up,,and I feel like JOB. Especially with these darn boils :( 

    I am still praising God and now expecting a miracle :) Money cometh :)  Man this is hard stuff.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited February 2009

    Lisa, I am praying for you right now. You have a lot on your plate, but nothing you and your LORD can't handle.

    In my devotions today, I studied Romans 5 where it says that we rejoice in troubles because they produce perseverance, character and hope. Hope that is from the Holy Spirit and does not disappoint. With all the troubles you are enduring right now, to me, that means a big dose of hope should be coming your way soon.

    I am up right now because I am in such pain that I cannot sleep. Now I have a purpose. I will pray for you and the others who need God's special help right now.

    Bette 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories