Anyone starting chemo in Aug. 08?
Comments
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Jeannine and Bette: I continue to pray for you. I am sorry about your day Jeannine. You are right tomorrow is a new day
Wow, I just found out that one of my old high school friends was jogging on a beach in VA, struck by lighteneing and died. He was 49. He use to live on my road and we would walk home from the bus together. I guess we all think about cancer so much we never really think that perhaps God could take us quickly another way. I was saying to my pastor that my mom use to tell me that the Lord will probably come in my life time. Well, I will be upset if I go to glory and he decides to come the day after!!! Lol!!!
Took my 2.2 mile walk with my kids. Ran from one telephone pole to the next, intermittently. It was so good to see the sun and breathe in the fresh air. I live in the country and thank the good Lord everyday that I can enjoy his creation!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It was absolutley beautiful today.
Well off to sleep. Going for treatment tomorrow. love and hugs to you all
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Jeaninne, I'm so sorry you're having a bad time of it! It sounds like you are being strong and keeping your chin up, BC has NO chance!!! I want you to be sure if you start tx with one Dr. that you can switch if you need to. I found out last year that I started with one onc, and I wanted to be referred to MD Anderson, and they said I couldn't because I already started my tx, and would have to wait until that course was finished before I could change. Luckily, my onc has been very proactive in my tx and I trust her a lot so far. My prayers are with you still.
Bette, I'm glad to hear those fightin' words again!!!! Still praying for you.
Corinne, I also was told with a DIEP I could only get a small A
. I went with the TEs and now I have the cohesive gel implants, I'm a small C cup now. They actually feel very natural, although the masectomy area will always be numb, strange sensation. Some women on here said they're implants have lasted 20+ years. I'm sorry to hear about your friend. Hope everything is good for you.Hugs to all of us!!
Deen
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Jeannine, Hang in there!
Deen and Corinne, thanks for the prayers and hugs. I am heavy, so can get up to a D with DIEP. Don't know if I want to go that big.
I am going to enjoy the day by making homemade peach ice cream!
Bette
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Thx Bette & Deen,
Really the ins. may give me a hard time switching Dr's.? Now that presents a problem because I'm not sure if I want stay w/current onc. (I kind of wanted to just get started ASAP then switch) Ugh. I did mention to their wonderful asst. about some chemo drugs Flady recommended. I need a new cocktail that's for sure...
Corrine: So sorry to hear about your friend who passed. That really tells us we need to focus more on LIFE than our bc. Your walk w/the kids sounded marvelous. I did a 3 mile walk on Tues. w/the dog and 1.5 on Wed. Tomorrow I'm going to the beach and enjoying the day w/the family.
Mmm. Bette your pie sounds delicious! (I cheated yesterday and had Pistachio Nut Icecream. So hard to give up the sugar).
Have a great weekend everyone,
Jeannine
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Jeannine ~ Since UCLA has several oncologists, I'm wondering if the referral you got has to be to that specific one? Could you possibly call your insurance co. and also UCLA oncology and just ask them that question? Tell UCLA your dx and that you can't wait 2 weeks for the onc you were referred to to return and then schedule you. My onc there is Sara Hurvitz, and she's wonderful. See if you can get in sooner with her or another onc. I can't imagine that they wouldn't be very responsive if they have the full picture.
I'm dashing out now to a dentist app't., but I'll check with you directly later ~ Deanna
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Good News!
Gr8 gal @ old onc. office got me a new Dr. @ UCLA! She spent 2 hours w/the nurse's station Bless her. My appt. is Wed. @ 9:00 a.m.
Deanna: My new Dr. is Dr. Thompson-Adams. Have you heard of him? I did inquire about Sara Hurvitz but w/my med. group it has to be a Dr. contracted w/them. I looked him up and he's a 5 star Dr. w/43 yrs. experience. (Hope he's not too old!) I just hope he's a nice & positive Dr. Located @ the SM location. I'm so happy. God is turning things around in my favor.
Spoke w/current onc. today too. Dr. She was disspointed my bc returned. They think I waited too long for RADS but I told her & BS "I had 8 rounds of chemo. I don't think RADS would have prevented it. A MASTECOMY would have!" The good thing is bc has not spread beyond breast but she wants clarification on mammary node. She also wants UCLA involved and for me to get on w/TX ASAP. SO DO I!
Feeling much better today. God is working his glory.
God Bless,
Jeannine
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Jeannine, Great news! I hope your new onc is as encouraging as my onc at Hopkins. I will be praying for you at 9 on Wednesday (actually at noon here in PA)
We will be waiting next week for a call from the PARP-inhibitor trial. I think our next step is a screening appointment, after the insurance stuff gets figured out. I have a great nurse case manager at my insurance who is going to help. My bone scan is Tuesday, so we are also waiting for that.
Jeannine, I had chemo and an Mx and rads and my cancer still came back. Maybe because it was IBC all along.
Well it is the weekend, and time to rest in the peace of God.
Bette
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corrine- i'm glad that you will be able to have your boob made. Small is good! I had my first herceptin on Sep 26th of 2008 along with my last chemo. I have did 27 herceptin treatments and need 52. I had to stop two times which was a total of 3months without it due to EF drop.
Bette & Jeannine~ You both are an inspiration to all of us and are very strong women. I pray for you both and everyone too. I'm grateful that it is localized jeannie. you are lucky you have a understanding boss.
God Bless and live life to the fullest.
Oh, I forgot to let you all know that I went to a job interview and started working part-time as a second job. Just can't seem to catch up on living expenses. I was pleased and thankful for that job.
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Jeannine, The news is much better than expected. If it is the same cancer and has not spread beyond the breast there is great hope for you! I keep praying for you!!
Bette: I hope you have a SUNNY day and that Tom has the day off so you can spend it together.
Deanna: How was your dental appointment?
Went for Herceptin yesterday. Only 3 more left, hopefully!!!!!!!
Going on vacation today to Stowe, VT. There is a 5. something mile bike path and yes I will be walking!!! I am bringing my bike also and plan to have a GREAT time. Last year when I went here I had just found out I had cancer. I cried through my whole vacation. So far there is no bad news...finding out about my endometrial biopsy this week some time. Don't know if I will have much access to the computer so if not- just know that ALL of you are being prayed for all week.
I love you all and trust that the Lord will comfort each of you as he does me.
Hugs,
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Jeaninne, I'm sorry I didn't mean the insurance was a problem, but the onc won't treat someone who is already in a course of chemo treatment with someone else. That is what happened to me, but it may be different there. I'm a little confused with your diagnoses. They told you it was systemic, but it hasn't spread beyond breast? Maybe you can ask them what they stage you at. That might be a little clearer. You should get a copy of your pathology, and at the BCO start page, go to "your pathology results", and it explains everything on there. Keep up the good work on the walking, gal!!! I'm walking a lot, too. Finally was able to start working out again since surgery. Praying hard for you for great results and quick healing.
Bette, good luck on your upcoming tests and trials. I'll be praying for you.
Corinne, have a great vacation! Sounds like it will be a lot better than last year.
Mamakaren, please don't overdo it!! I know money problems can be overwhelming, but your health is important. Please take care.
Deanna, hope your dentist visit was good. I'm going to mine on Tuesday. Worried about the Zometa infusions with that.
Have a great weekend,
Deen
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Jeannine ~ I'm soooo glad you got an app't at UCLA so quickly! As wonderful as your current doc & staff sound, I just think you really need the expertise of docs who often see progressions like yours, and will have the experience and confidence to treat it aggressively. I haven't heard of the doc you're seeing, and couldn't find much about him on-line. But, believe me, everyone @ UCLA is at the top of their game -- no matter what their age. They teach this stuff, so not only have to stay current on every shred of research, but have to innovate. Dennis Slamon heads up the research arm of the dept. that will be taking care of you, so you will be in the best of hands!!!
Corinne ~ I hope you have a wonderful vacation that makes up for what you missed last year! You so deserve it after what you've been through.
Karen ~ Good for you for getting a job you needed! I'm glad you have the energy!
Deen ~ You are wise to keep on top of the Zometa situation. That one SE, as rare as it is, is very concerning.
My dentist app't went well. My hygenist actually wondered if chemo had helped my teeth and gums, as I hadn't been in for 10 mos., and all looked great. I told him I didn't think it was the chemo, but more likely all the newer supplements, like CoQ10, I now take. I still need to get a chip repaired, and don't know what to do about that. I really like my hygenist, but don't care for the dentist @ this place. My previous dentist there (who I loved) went out on his own, then promptly got his new office shut down and license suspended due to an old sexual abuse charge from his pre-dental school days. It was so odd to see his office being picketed by folks who acted as if he was some dangerous felon, which he wasn't. I'm the first one to jump on those sorts of things when valid, but I think this was one of those very sad mistakes of youth that ended up costing him his career. Anyway, I need to find a new dentist I like, which, compared to bc issues, is just a nuisance.
Hope everyone is enjoying the weekend ~ Deanna
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I will be starting chemo at the end of Aug or beginning of September. I was reading on another thread that many lovely ladies are gaining weight with chemo. I thought it was going to make one nauseous and therefore curb the appetite. Anyone know why these ladies are having trouble with weight gain? Any way around it?
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chinablue ~ I think many of us gained a few pounds while on chemo. Part of the problem is the steroids they give us along with the chemo drugs. They make you hungry, and they also make you retain fluids, Another factor for some of us might be our food tolerances or cravings while we're on chemo. It's a bit like being pregnant. Some things turn your stomach, and things you haven't eaten in years are suddenly the only thing you want. And it changes from week to week. I had one week of grilled cheese sandwiches.
But the good news is, it's seldom a huge weight gain -- usually less than 10 lbs., and it seems to drop off once the chemo is entirely out of our systems and we can get back to exercising.
Good luck!!!!!! And come back and let us know how you're doing! What chemo are you getting? Deanna
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Oh Deanna, thanks for the reassuring words. The realization of what has happened to me (us) comes in layers.
I am scheduled for mastectomy with flap reconstruction Aug. 6th. Once I get the pathology report, I will know much more about my adjuvant treatment. My initial core biopsy said I have both invasive and DCIS cancer. They estimate the tumor to be 3.3 cm by 2.6 cm (MRI).
My husband, the level headed and kind man that he is, said I should not jump the gun. I should wait for the path report and the onc's recommendations then read up on the side effects of what is recommended. He makes a lot of sense.
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I gained thirty pounds through chemo, surgery, radiation, Femara and Dx with Stage IV. I guess it stayed on because I have not yet felt well enough to exercise. But then I have had a weight problem all my life. This will probably not happen to you, chinablue.
Prayers for your upcoming treatment.
Bette
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chinablue ~ Your DH is right when he says not to jump the gun. If you can make yourself focus on the immediate aspect of your treatment, that's better than worrying about things that may not even happen. You'll have plenty of time while you heal from surgery to look into chemo or radiation if they become recommended. On the other hand, it's also good to check out something that bothers you -- such as the weight gain with chemo thing. But try not to worry about chemo yet. Focus on your upcoming surgery. Do you have things well-organized at home for your recuperation? Will your DH or someone be able to stay with you the first few days you're home? Those first days can be a bit rough.
The realization coming in layers is very normal. It's got something to do with how our minds respond to this degree of stress -- letting in bits and pieces at a time, rather than everything at once. If you haven't already found it, there's probably a thread here for women having surgery this month. It's a great place to compare notes and share support with others who are also having surgery in August. Deanna
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Hi all, have been keeping up on everyones posts. Want you to know that I am enjoying my vacation. today I am going on a 10 mile bike ride, walking 40 minutes and going water sliding.at Smugglers Nothe, So happy to be here and love the accomodations through our timeshare. I am praying for each one of us and know the Lord is right by our sides. Keep on keeping on my dears sisters!!! I love you all
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Hi Everyone, I too have been keeping up with everyone's posts.
MamaKaren- I hope your new job is going well, but please remember to get your rest!
Corrine - i wish we were all on vacation with you! What a few relaxing days in VT would do for the soul!!!
Deanna - Your hair is coming in so cute!
Bette - I haven't been able to find out a lot about PARP. It must be fairly new. I did see that it was a Phase 2 Clinical Trial. Would you have to come down to NIH to participate?
Jeannine - How's your week going?
Even if I'm not posting, I'm thinking and praying for all my August Hot Baldies/Breast Cancer Sisters!!! BTW - Where are you Stacy? Getting ready for school to start?
Chinablue - Good luck on your surgery on Thursday! We'll be praying for you! Maybe you would like to hang out with Deen (TXBADBOOB) & me on the reconstruction thread too! I've been recovering real wel from my June 11th surgery and finally went bra shopping this weekend! I am an unbelieveable 34D! It really doesn't look that big. I think it's the diameter that makes it that size. I tried to do the DIEP too, but was told I only had enough for an A or small B and I didn't want to go through major surgery and not get an "upgrade!"
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Phone call from PARP clinical trial coordinator today. They want me to come down to Fairfax, VA for an appointment on Thursday at 2 PM. Tom and I are praying for wisdom about whether this is the right treatment for me. We will be staying overnight in Fairfax.
Yeah for everyone who is done recon and shopping for bras!
Hugs to all who have sent cards!
Bette
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Hi everyone!!! All is well here in Ohio. Raining again today but I know the farmers need it so I guess I will be ok with it. Kids are getting ready to go back to school and I think they are actually excited. Ali starts High School this year so it should be interesting. Bette - I hope you and Tom get the answers you are looking for concerning your treatment. Hood - glad you are recovering from your surgery well....Everything just takes time! Corinne - glad you are enjoying your vacation - it helps to just get away from everything. To everyone else hope all is going well....
Loves to all....................
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Bone scan today, results tomorrow. Hopefully no bone mets!
It is 90 degrees here in PA, so I am stuck inside as I get heat exhaustion very easily these days.
Just started knitting a pale yellow baby blanket for someone at church who is adopting. The excitement of welcoming new life!
Bete
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I'm very hopeful that bone mets are not a part of the picture, Bette. I know you'll let us know as soon as you hear anything. You will be on my mind and in my prayers today.
Jeannine ~ I am getting excited about your app't. tomorrow morning, and just praying that it goes exceedingly well for you. I'll be waiting to hear what you find out. When you're there, be sure to get info on the programs they offer (mostly @ the Westwood location) for bc patients. They have all sorts of classes and support groups that I've never been able to do, but that sound great.
So, have you eaten any rattlesnake meat yet?
Hood -- So glad you're are happy with your recon!!! You should think about meeting us in Palm Desert next year. After some champagne, Misty, Gail, Jeannine and I even got around to comparing our recon work! Kind of silly, but it still makes me smile to think about it!
Hi and a (((hug))) to everyone else ~ Deanna
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Hi there everyone,
I had a really nice time at the beach on Saturday. Water was like a bath. DH had to work though.
Bette: Oh I am praying for NO BONE METS for you! I think you should give the PARP trial a chance. I've heard good things about it. I'm definitley going to inquire about it for myself.
Deen: I don't know! BS says I'm systemic (which I probably am) but Onc. said so far, all organs are clear and same cancer is in breast -but that 1 node may be in/outside breast wall? Knowing this cancer, it's aggressive and I need to act fast. Thanks for the prayers. Both Dr's STILL say it's not IBC. Let's see what the new Onc. says. I just PRAY he's encouraging, supportive and has the right leads. Looks like my TX will be w/ UCLA.
Congrats MamaK on the new job! Times are so tough on everyone now. I agree w/Deen though. Don't over do it!
Deanna: I definitley will look into some of the programs. While I'm closer to UCLA than you, it's still a ways! Traffic is horrible on the 405. Dr. is at SM location. I'm leaving the house @ 6:30 a.m. Oh I pray he's a good Dr. I don't want to hear the negative, only the solutions! Oh I get my 2 rattlesnakes tomorrow. I can't wait! It is the 1 thing I've been thinking about constantly. I know you all think I'm nuts but there's something to this I know it. I'll keep you all posted.
Corrine: I'm wishing you a lovely vac. in VT! This time you can enjoy it. You are right. There is always hope and hope is never false or wrong.
Keep the prayers going!
Love to all,
Jeannine
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Jeaninne, Warm thoughts and prayers for your appointment tomorrow. I get my scan results in the PM. What are you going to do with the rattlesnakes?
We have to see if they will accept me into the PARP trial. That's what Thursday is about. Right now I am praying for the Lord's guidance for the best treatment.
Bette
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Hi all, Still having a good time but at times that old mind gets me.
Jeannine: Rattlesnake sounds a bit much. However, if you feel this is the direction to go...I say go for it. You need to believe in what you are doing and everyone is different. I too am praying for you that it is systemic and nothing more.
This morning when I woke up and prayed I opened my eyes and my blanket was crumpled into a small pile in the shape of a hand. I looked again and it looked exactly like a right hand. Then I grabed onto it and thanked the Lord how his word says he holds our right hand with his right hand. That means he has to put his arm around us!!! At times I fear but I am trying hard to renew my mind through God's Word. I was once told that I am not a dolphin. A dolphin was created to think of two things at once. A human can only think of one thing. So.....I am either fixated on my problem of cancer and how it may or may not come back or I am resting on God. It is so hard to stay continually resting. Learning day by day.
Today we went downtown to shop around. I walked on th bike path for miles!!!! It is so incredibly beautiful here in the mountains. I am planning to go bike riding either tomorrow or Thurs. Hoping to get my mind in a better place as I am here. Anyhow, love to you all.
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Hey Girls!
I have been checking the board and keeping up with everyone. I came down to Palm Beach, FL, with three of my girlfriends last Friday and we leave this afternoon. It was a nice "girls" getaway, as we left husbands and/or kids at home. We had six beautiful days of sun and fun on the beach.
It sounds like everything is as good as can be for all of us here. Bette, waiting to hear results of your scan. Hood, didn't know you had your exchange and a "D" at that!!! Woo-hoo! Jeannine, you'll have to let us know how that rattlesnake is-be careful!!
Hope everyone has a great day!!
~Misty
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Hi girls! I have been busy getting ready for school to start both for my class and my own kids. Have been keeping up with everyone though!
Bette and Jeannine, still praying girls and hoping for more good news to come!
I go tomorrow on the anniversary of my first chemo Tx for my mammogram. I had to reschedule it twice! I will be so happy to get it over with!!
Hugs to all!!
Stacy
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Corinne and Misty, Great that you are both being refreshed on vacation.
I got a call today that my bone scan was NEGATIVE for cancer. Finally some good news!
I am packing for the trip to VA tomorrow. Pray for God's will about the PARP trial!
Bette
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Oh, Bette! I just read your post, and feel the tears of joy for you welling up! Praise God that your bone scan was negative! What a relief!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jeannine ~ Where are you? I've been thinking about you all day, so hoping & praying that UCLA was an uplifting and encouraging app't. And, by the way, I don't think rattlesnake meat is at all weird. I personally believe that God put everything on this earth to heal our diseases. The trick is finding them. I've never heard or thought of rattlesnake meat (or any meat) as being a possible cure, but why not???? Taxol and Taxotere and all those expensive Taxane drugs are based on a natural ingredient from a tree. I totally believe in natural healing remedies. Deanna
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Bette,
I am soooooooooo happy for you! Congrats on your negative bone scan!
Lord God, "thank you, thank you, thank you in Jesus name, "Thank you!!!!!!" Thank you for hearing our prayers for Bette and for answering them in such a mighty way!!!!
All things work for good for those who love the Lord!
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