2010 Sisters

Karen what is BIRADS3? I just had my first mamo since diagnosis and also a MRI. No results yet.

Samsue - BIRADS 3 rating means "probably" benign, but needs to be followed closely (usually they have you come back in 6 months). It's basically "radiologist speak" for "we don't know, really."

Karen

samsue-  Interesting that you are being monitored by you rads Onc instead of medical Onc.  I don't really care for my medical Onc and I adore my RO.  He actually totally understood my reasons for declining hormone therapy and explained that in my case I would statistically benefit a small amount.  I didn't know that we could be followed by our RO.  Can they order the MRIs, hormone tests and other things?

I too am searching for a point of care doctor to oversee all of this. My BS and PS work together. I have a great GP. My oncologist is moving to Phoenix. He is happy to keep in touch with emails but honestly, despite his profile in the industry (and it is an industry), I need someone here. I am going to let BS give me a referral to the onc she works with (I declined after choosing to go with my superstar:) But the the truth is, I have no idea who is supposed to be monitoring me (i.e. hormone levels, followups, etc) It is all so confusing. I still have not started the arimidex( my last conversation with oncologist was him telling me it was my best option and if the SEs were too significant, we would try the others sequentially. He said I needed no other tests). Frankly, I think everyone involved is not so "alarmed" due to my low stats but I know better than to "rest" on them. My head is spinning at this point.

Jo I actually asked my PCP who was supposed to monitor me with all the tests ect. He said he was the first person to go to, however the test for the oncotype can only be ordered by a rad onc or med onc so the rad onc ordered it for me because the med onc refused. I was to go for a follow up for the rads and he wanted a mamo before the visit, I asked for the MRI because of other issues with the breast. He agreed to all so he's giving the information to the PCP when it comes in.

My PCP was OK with all this because he knows what is going on... I see him fairly regularly because I'm always there for "something" colds, bee stings, whatever!

annette - Whine all you want and you are not weak.  Just full of emotions that need to get out.  We are here for. You will shake it off, just give it some time.  Trying to stop smoking and cutting down on caffeine at the same time?  I would be a raging b----ch.  

Annettek

Sorry you're feeling so down. It must be really hard to stop smoking and not having the coffee. I gave up coffee in March and it wasn't fun. Hang in there tomorrow is another day and we can start it over at any time. Perhaps you might be able to talk to your Dr concerning your down days if they continue.

This is the BEST place to come when you're needing to vent!

Annettek BIG HUG and it is ok to whine here.  I had my first major breakdown the Thursday before Christmas and boy did I need it.  I usually have it together. DH says I like to be in control. haha, anyway I let it all out and since have felt so much better.  This is a safe place to let it all out. 

When I decided to cut out caffeine I did by mixing my coffee 3/4 caffeine and 1/4 decaf, then went 1/2 and 1/2 and then 1/4 and 3/4.  It was gradual and I never missed the caffeine that way.  I still enjoy coffee so it is organic decaf now. 

Samsue my MO has never done an exam with me either and I find that so odd.  I am really considering just using my RO and BS for all my followups.  I have an appt with my MO next week so I have not completely made up my mind, but all he does is look at my chart and order bloodwork which my RO could do.

Karenlen - I had radiation after mastectomy, not a lumpectomy, so the questionable findings are on my good breast. I just wanted to be sure you understood my situation. Thanks for the info though.

I did wonder why they don't ultrasound the mx side or something though since there is a little tissue there, not enough to squish in the mammo though, ow!  I see my Med Onc on Thursday, who by the way does very thorough exams and does talk to me so I feel fortunate, compared to some of you, who apparently do not have personable oncs. I do also love my rad onc though, so it's good to know that he could be a backup if necessary.

I would definitely be depressed if I gave up coffee. I'm down to one cup each morning, and refuse to give that up. I've given up enough already. There has to be some QOL, you know?

Sherryc - My rad onc would look at my skin like I had a disease and from across the room.  When I had problems, it was like pulling teeth to even have him look at the burns and itchy rash.  My surgeon is amazing and even though I don't have to see him anymore, I have an open appt to see him anytime I need to.  My MO is very thorough and does exams and labs every time I go in.  He lets me ask lots of questions and if I forget one or two I can always call back.

            Looking Ahead

                                                            Jan. 3^rd 2011

As I look ahead to what the future will bring, I look back on what the year before has taught me.

I will take the time to notice more around me and make the effort to reach out to those who just need a ear to bend.

I will not take my health for granted or my loved ones.

I will put my faith in God, even though I don't know where he is leading me.

I will appreciate today, and look forward to tomorrow.

Chemo is done, chemo is done, hooray, hooray, I am grateful for the day God has made.

Congrats to grizzly1 on finishing chemo, I had my last chemo last week.  2011 will be a great year.

 Cheryl

Yeah, for those finishing chemo. I'm like Jo I'm doing the happy dance too!