April & May 2015 Surgery Sisters

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  • evelynsfirstborn
    evelynsfirstborn Member Posts: 29
    edited May 2015

    I totally agree with you, Esmeralda50, this thread (thank you, Downdog) has mde a big difference in how I have coped before surgery and after. Thanks to all who have shared intimate details of your lives and challenges. Still standing, my heart aches for you & the betrayal & cruelty you've endured from from a man you thought you could trust & depend on. Do your best to lean on others who offer to help you because you will need help. I pray that you are surrounded by kindness in some other part of your life now. In time you will recognize reserves of strength in yourself that you never knew you had. You're right that you'll see people's true colors -- unfortunately, some will disappoint. I've been divorced for 18 years & when I was diagnosed with BRCA 1 mutation, I was relieved that I didn't have a man in my life. In my experience, men & their egos often don't shine at times of trouble. You end up carrying them as well as your injured self. Sorry if this is sexist but your post hit a nerve in me. My prayers go out to all the brave women slogging thru BC. You are not alone. We got this.

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  • StillStanding66
    StillStanding66 Member Posts: 22
    edited May 2015

    Thanks for the sweet words girls! It truly is a feeling of betrayal and makes you question everything in the relationship up to now.

    The pain and swelling where the drain was removed is still very painful and my fever is up to 100 degrees. I hate to even tell him because he'll think just seeking attention. Fortunately I have a friend who will be in town to take me into San antonio Tomorrow. It's just embarrassing that Icant depend on him for support. He used to lift me up and now it's the total opposite

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  • AudreyB
    AudreyB Member Posts: 377
    edited May 2015

    Stillstsnding66 I sm so sorry you have to experience this. Just when you need someone the most they show their true colors. I will pray you find your peace in this situation.

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  • AudreyB
    AudreyB Member Posts: 377
    edited May 2015

    At the hospital, sitting in the lobby with Rob waiting for the nurse to come get me. I got this. Blessings to all.

    Love

    Audrey

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  • justmaximom15
    justmaximom15 Member Posts: 264
    edited May 2015

    Just wanted to check in and let everyone know that surgery went well, no surprises and my recovery is going good. Today, I'm more sore than I was yesterday but not really in pain. Showered yesterday but it wasn't really a fun experience.

    They took one node but the surgeon said she thought it looked fine and we should get the full pathology report by the end of the week.


    Thank you all!



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  • Jackbirdie
    Jackbirdie Member Posts: 4,693
    edited May 2015

    just Max- glad you are through and it was ok. Best of luck on the final pathology, and wishing you a smooth and peaceful recovery.

    Audrey, and Hopeful, thinking of you both RIGHT NOW!!! Check in when you can. Thinking good thoughts

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  • mysunshine48
    mysunshine48 Member Posts: 1,480
    edited May 2015


    Just checking in to add a little comfort to those still to have surgery. Friday will mark one month post surgery for me, and, I have to say it has not been nearly as difficult as I has thought it would be. I just came from my plastic surgeon and had my 3rd fill. Not bad at all. I start chemo next week and hope I can do that without too many side effects. Definitely not pleasant, but if this gets rid of every stinking little Cancer cell, it is well worth it.

    Best wishes to you all. I suspect we will meet on the May chemo site! We need each other!😊

    Enjoy this beautiful day

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  • StillStanding66
    StillStanding66 Member Posts: 22
    edited May 2015

    Thank you Audrey! Good luck and God bless!!!

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  • evelynsfirstborn
    evelynsfirstborn Member Posts: 29
    edited May 2015

    I want to add my support to our sisters going into surgery & all of us who are healing. Thanks for sharing your good news, Justmaximim15. I only had one node taken too & it came back clear on path report. I'm praying yours does too. AudreyB, stay calm, there are loving arms around you & things will be getting easier. My sunshine48, your optimism will make all the difference -- stay strong -- we are here for you. Stillstanding66, lean on your friend to get you to San Antonio & the care you need. Don't be embarrassed to accept help -- I wish your man would step up for you but it's not your fault that he let you down. All your energies need to be focused on YOU and getting better. Please stay in touch. You are in our thoughts & prayers, as Katy said, RIGHT NOW. Hugs

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  • StFrancis
    StFrancis Member Posts: 6
    edited May 2015

    Hi there -

    Just wanted to check in. My lumpectomy surgery with sentinel node biopsy was yesterday afternoon and went pretty smoothly. I am sore, but it's not nearly as bad as I expected so far. Advil has done a good job with the pain.

    I'm going to be taking pics every day - if anyone with a similar dx thinks they want to see them, I am happy to share. Just pm me (I know wanting to SEE what the scarring could look like helped a lot when I was just figuring out surgery options).

    Sending good thoughts for health and healing to everyone.

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  • downdog
    downdog Member Posts: 1,432
    edited May 2015

    Welcome newest sisters, jsg43, Tresjoli2 and StFrancis! You'll find lots of support from your sisters here.

    StillStanding66, unbelievable, you've had a BMX+DIEP. If I lived remotely near you, I'd come over and set him straight, finishing off with a martial arts spin kick to the balls! Hope you have a great day in San Antonio with your friend. You only sacrifice your time, energy, love and commitment to someone who has already proven themselves worthy of it. You are precious, wonderful, beautiful and worthy of love. Keep an eye on your temperature and call your PS's office if you have any concerns. Take care of yourself.

    Sending a giant gentle hug of support to sisters healing and recovering and calming thoughts to those with surgeries ahead.

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  • bbbbun
    bbbbun Member Posts: 59
    edited May 2015

    Stillstanding~ I would like to help. I live in San Antonio very close to PRMA....Lockhill-Selma and Wurzbach.

    Dr C is my PS as well. I had my EX with FG April 1st and doing well. Yay!!

    Anyway, I can drive now and would love to help even if it is "just coffee".....so PM me when you have a chance!

    Sending warm gentle hugs your way! Valorie

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  • mjh1
    mjh1 Member Posts: 445
    edited May 2015

    stillstanding - kick his ass to the curb just like you did cancer!!  sorry to be so blunt,but in my book any "man" that treats a woman like that is worthless and not worth the time.

    esmerelda - glad surgery went well and you're on the mend.  Hope you'll get stronger each day.

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  • Charlotte57
    Charlotte57 Member Posts: 35
    edited May 2015

    So proud of all of you! I am not on here very often as I end up with panic attacks thinking about the upcoming surgery and more than that - worried about recovery. I've had so many surgeries in my 57 years, I am not looking forward to another! You are all such an inspiration and I pray for each of you to have the best recoveries! I find I can only allow myself so much "breast cancer" time, or I can dwell on it so much I'm overwhelmed. Still have 12 more days till surgery. Noted several more with the same surgery date of May 18th. I know we all can do this! Thanks so much to all of you who have already been here for sharing your journies

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  • AudreyB
    AudreyB Member Posts: 377
    edited May 2015

    surgery went well this morning. 4 hours plus recovery.

    BS said everything she removed looked good. Lymph node too.

    CANCER FREE baby.

    I am in discomgort but I have my pain pump.



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  • Jackbirdie
    Jackbirdie Member Posts: 4,693
    edited May 2015

    Audrey- Fantastic news! Rest now. Give your body what it needs. Remember,it can't fight pain and heal at the same time so be FREEWHEELING with that pump!

    The best news. So happy.

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  • mysunshine48
    mysunshine48 Member Posts: 1,480
    edited May 2015



    Charlotte57 - YOU need not to worry and stress out! Believe me, I had not had surgery before and was so scared. But, I have surprised myself! Yes, I think everyone would say after a double mastectomy, there is some pain and discomfort, but tolerable! I could not stand the pain meds.....made me sick.....so I just went to Tylenol after 3 days. It is going to be OK. Really!!!!! Take a deep breath and go in and get it over! We are here for you!

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  • Cheesequake
    Cheesequake Member Posts: 264
    edited May 2015

    Got my path results today. Tumor was 3.2cm in reality (was 2.4cm according to ultrasound prior to surgery). 0/1 nodes, awesome. Margins all clear, awesome. (4mm or greater on all sides but one, which was 3mm.)

    But the report indicates lymphovascular invasion present - both in the perinodal adipose tissue, and at the tumor site.

    I'm not entirely sure what this means going forward, but I don't like it :(

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  • evelynsfirstborn
    evelynsfirstborn Member Posts: 29
    edited May 2015

    AudreyB, you did it -- congratulations on showing cancer who's boss!!!

    Smiles & hugs all around -- take good care of yourself!!!

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  • GoodConstitution
    GoodConstitution Member Posts: 43
    edited May 2015

    I am not certain of needing a fourth lumpectomy and rads or a mastectomy. But am wondering what you suggest for getting in shape? I have a second opinion scheduled next week due to a .5mm margin posterior which some say is OK and others sat too close. Thank you.

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  • AudreyB
    AudreyB Member Posts: 377
    edited May 2015

    It's 1:30. I slept for about 4 hours and just woke up in considerable. Pain. But I could not find my pain pump. Panic ensued, LOL_i called for the nurse and she found it under me m. Crisis averted


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  • M0mmyof3
    M0mmyof3 Member Posts: 9,696
    edited May 2015

    Stillstanding,

    I'm sorry that you have to go through this with someone you thought would be there for you.  I have heard of some men doing this and its a total shame. Even though he drives me crazy on occasion, my hubby was just the opposite when it came to my having cancer, he's been there for me through everything. Don't think I would have made it this far without him.

    For your sake, I hope things get better for you. No one choses for cancer to come calling!

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  • mjh1
    mjh1 Member Posts: 445
    edited May 2015

    charlotte - waiting is most difficult for all of us.  Don't think about the recovery.  Just take one day at a time now.  You'r only stressing yourself out over things that you can't control.  As easy or as hard recovey can be, you will be so happy to be rid of the BC that it will push you forward to the next phase.  Sending all calming thoughts your way.

    cheesquake - I'm just as confused as you are.  If your lymp nodes and margisn are clear whichis awesome how could there be lmphovascular and adipose tissue insvasion??

    audrey - Great surgery went well and you've kicked cancer to the curb.  Now just try to relax and let your body heal.  Don't be stingy on the pain meds.  They were given for you for a reason.

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  • Metta
    Metta Member Posts: 84
    edited May 2015

    Yay Audrey! Glad you are okay and are well medicated! Downdog, first of all, have we all mentioned that you look gorgeous? And second I almost popped a stitch laughing at the martial arts spin kick image. Seriously, thank you for looking out for us here.

    Stillstanding, have you had that site checked out yet? Because pain and redness and fever sound like an infection. Please get a ride to see your surgeon! Meanwhile we will egg your boyfriend's car. I'm so concerned for you and sad that he could be cruel to you during your most vulnerable time. It sounds awful.

    Cheesequake, I'm not an oncologist, but the worst-case scenario is that you'd have to do chemo. And it's not easy, but it can save your life (especially for triple positives like us). I've met some wonderful people here who helped me through chemo. If that has to happen for you, I'm sorry. But you will get through it, and we will be there for you.

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  • Jackbirdie
    Jackbirdie Member Posts: 4,693
    edited May 2015

    yeah- junk punch AND pimp slap ordered for Stillstanding's DH. And that doesn't stand for dear husband either.

    He won't be still standing when your chemo babes are done with him. It really pisses me off more and more every day that passes

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  • Hopeful82014
    Hopeful82014 Member Posts: 3,480
    edited May 2015

    Survived a rotten day yesterday. Thanks for all who helped me along. Gentle hugs to those just out of surgery and/or needing some TLC.

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  • downdog
    downdog Member Posts: 1,432
    edited May 2015

    Cheesequake, hopefully one of the resident bco experts will chime in, as I am far from any kind of an expert about HER+. I do believe that the LVI, particularly because it was perinodal as well would likely mean Perjeta. However, the fact that your tumour was 3.2cm and HER2+, I believe also yields a recommendation of Perjeta, so in your case, I don't think the LVI will change your treatment. HER2+ tumours <1cm often just get Herceptin, so I think you will get both targeted therapies with your chemo. I would suggest you post your question on the triple+ forum area, as the ladies there will be experts.

    Welcome GoodConstitution! Potentially a 4th lx for the same area of DCIS? Exercise will depend on so many factors...your age, baseline level of fitness, any other health issues, if you are carrying a lot of extra weight, do you have access to clubs, own a bicycle etc. Walking is always great to start and it's free! You can pick up the pace and add distance as you improve and even have it ultimately evolve into hiking trails and mountains, depending on your abilities. It's nice if you have a walking buddy. Unless you are a really self-motivated person, social fitness activities will make you more inclined to show up and and be more accountable. If you want to share more info about yourself, we can provide you with some other suggestions.

    Thank you, Metta! Hope your recovery is going well.

    Jackbirdie, we got the sistas militia going here!

    Hopeful82014, thanks for checking in and hope each day forward of your recovery is easier.

    Sending best wishes to tangerinequeen222 and april25 for your surgeries tomorrow.

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  • mjh1
    mjh1 Member Posts: 445
    edited May 2015

    well, it looks like my revision won't be happening any time soon.  Got a wrench thrown into my plans when I go to the eye dr and was told I need to have cataract surgery.  My eyes were perfectly fine last year.  I'm 48.  WTF??  I guess stress and trauma will bring all sorts of things we don't expect. 

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  • Jackbirdie
    Jackbirdie Member Posts: 4,693
    edited May 2015

    Mj1h- Same thing here. Cataracts in both eyes at 58.! Maybe chemo contributed, maybe some other drugs I was on, maybe just bad luck. But both eyes, no family history, and so young! Pisses me off. I've had enough.

    Big meltdown ensued when I was told.

    I have since learned it is a very easy surgery. No needles, just numbing gels. They have to do them one at a time for safety but the doc said what I'm going through now.....it will be NOTHING compared to that.

    Still, I can't get over the feeling I just stand up and something knocks me down again.

    Sorry for the disappointment on your recon postponement. People don't realize how much "the plan" means to us, we know what to expect. We need that. When monkey wrenches get thrown in, our world is rocked.

    Thinking of you. We will get through this. Together. Just the cataracts, though. I'm staying flat. Whole nother story.

    Be well. Sending a soft hug.

    Katy


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  • DayLily15
    DayLily15 Member Posts: 144
    edited May 2015

    Best wishes for tomorrow tangrinequeen and April25 !!!

    mjh1 - sorry to hear of your delay. hope your eyes heal quickly

    i still have a seroma, not getting worse but not going away very fast either.


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