Jan 2008--Ain't it Great?

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  • CarolC
    CarolC Member Posts: 179
    edited January 2008

    Hi Diana,

    I hope you continue to get through this first time and have the shot help. Fingers crossed for you.

    I did not have a muga scan, but I am going for labs in the morning of the treatment so maybe they'll do it then? I have had a fairly recent stress test, echo etc. - what else does the muga scan show?

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  • LilWarrior
    LilWarrior Member Posts: 268
    edited January 2008

    Hello All,

    Thanks for all the support.  I am getting so worried about tomorrow, as I mentioned I will see the Onco tomorrow and ask a lot of questions. Is there a reason why I should get a second opinon if he answers all my questions?

    I have another question, I am in Nursing school to be a THEE best Nurse ever -smile and I am wondering will I still be able to go to the Hosptial and work on my patients. Most of them are ill from Cancer and other diseases but none with cold, flus and etc.  I am really concerned should I be more cautious when I enter the room and where a mask?  I am thinking so! And will I be able to still attend school 4 days a week still with Chemo.

    KathyL

    Ilovewolf

    Determined1

    Deb102307

    Golfer779

    Thank you Ladies for all your emotional support, I dont know what I would do without you ladies.

    You know I dont like to think negative but I am wondering now will this Cancer come back again and soon and will it kill me.  I believe everything is already written for us but I cant help but keep wondering and thinking about all that.

    I know no one knows but when Im alone I start thinking crazy things like this.  I try to have a Godly postitive attitude about all this but sometimes I find myself thinking negative things.

    Also since I had 21 lymph nodes removed does that mean I can run and workout 1 1/2 hours 5 days a week anymore?  Should I be afraid because of Lymphedema?  Can anyone answer this question, I will of course ask my Dr tomorrow but having someone that has experienced with this makes me feel much better then someone just telling me by word of mouth!  If you know what I mean.


    Thanks again you lovely Ladies and I am  happy to  join you all on this journey because what doesnt break us makes us stronger.  I believe everything happens for a reason and we will all learn from this experience.  Maybe this is to let us know stop worrying about the house being clean, the laundry being done, and running around doing this and that - this is to slow us down and  appreciate us and love us a little more.  That is what I get out of this Dis-ease!  Smile.  

    I will let you know what the Dr says tomorrow and I will tape record him as well. Wink

    God bless,

    Dana    

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  • Diana63
    Diana63 Member Posts: 773
    edited January 2008

    Hi Carol, still not sick yet, crossing fingers & toes. Undecided

    I'm not sure exactly what the MUGA scan shows but I'm sure some of the BC.org ladies will know the answer, here is the web site that I looked up before my scan was done.

    http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/cardiac-blood-pool-scan

    Also for anyone new to chemo, the nurses are great they check on you constantly. If their is a problem I'm sure that they could handle it.

    Dana, I think that its great that you are becoming a nurse, you will know what it is like on the other side of the bed or recliner. Not only will you take care of their physical needs but you will show the compassion of a surviver. I don't know about the mask thing, I have heard some people say not to worry about getting sick, and others say you should protect yourself from germs.

    I have also been finding myself thinking about death, although I have tried so hard to have a positive outlook.

    Then I was talking to a friend that had heart surgery, and she said you will forget most of it in time. Your life will grow after chemo, and things will move into the place you once worried about Cancer.

    She should know she has been through hell and back in the last three years but she has moved on and I though how she put it made so much since.

    I told her when I get through this, I want to be just like her living life. Laughing

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  • Diana63
    Diana63 Member Posts: 773
    edited January 2008

    I was doing a poetry search today and found this poem and it reminded me of Cancer, chemo and the fight that we must fight.

    A Knight's Dilemma
    by Steven F. Boettcher
     

    In the distance
    I can hear a Dragon's call
    A fatal fall
    A ravaged maul.

    From my perch
    I can see the fiery fight
    The useless flight
    A meaningless plight.
     

    Between my fingers
    I can see the Dragon's claw
    The inspired awe
    A fatal flaw.

    From my hiding place
    I draw my sword
    Cross the ford
    Face the feared clawed.

    From the point of doom
    At the dragon's foot
    There I stood
    My sword, like wood.

    So there I stood, faced by the dragon's breath.
    I gathered my strength and faced with certain death.
    I plunged my sword into the heart of the beast.
    And there it fell, dead, finished, deceased.

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  • vettegal
    vettegal Member Posts: 287
    edited January 2008

    Diana-love the poem, i want to plunge my sward in the bc beast right now!!! and probably any person in the next 3 months who piss me off!!lol

    D1- sorry about your back issues, i am worried about my neck when i start chemo, had some issues there. You and I can mf in a catholic hospital any time!!!Wink a girl after my own heart.

    Everyone has started there chemo..almost anyhow. i don't see my onc dr till jan 14, i feel like everyone will be graduating sooner than me....lol

    First day back to work, HARD. Back today and really sore...just putting my headset on for my phone was a chore, i do it so many times a day.

    i am going to try to get a list together off all the names and where everyone is frrom, soi can start something here at home..i want to try to make something (crafty) it will be good therapy.....

    hugs to all......xxooo

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  • Determined1
    Determined1 Member Posts: 806
    edited January 2008

    Good Morning JJs!

    What a difference a good night of sleep will make.  Got my muscle relaxant and took it @ 7p.  Beddy-bye at 10 (a restless waking at 4, but fell back asleep), woke up at 8.  So far I've made it downstairs and got juice and toast and no problems!  Certainly changes the outlook!  Ima go try a shower in a bit and see how that goes...

    Hope you're still doing okay, Diana63.  The first couple of days after chemo were okay for me, so if there's something you want to do, I say go ahead with it.  (I'm not a doctor, but I've watched them on tv...)

    CarolC--like you, I was 12 weeks out from my last surgery when I started chemo.  Please don't worry about the time.  They surgically removed all the cancer, the chemo is your insurance policy.  It's okay.  In fact, I took advantage of the fact that I was physically recovering and went to the gym just as much as I could before I started chemo.  I wanted to be in the best shape ever!  I'm also trying (well, I've skipped the last few days with the back spasms) to do something as I can since the tx--even if it's to walk on the treadmill set at 3.0 for a half hour.  I'm anxious to do something tomorrow if my back is okay today.  So go ahead and exercise now.  I even read something in all the propaganda they gave me that said exercise will help lessen the se's.  Now who needs more of a reason than that?  I'm not doing XT, but in the guide to se's my onc gave me, the X does not cause hair loss, but the T does.  Not sure what that'll mean for you.  (It's funny, I just looked at the drugs I'm taking and neither one causes mouth sores, but I have a mouth full of blisters, so I guess that means we should take these "expected se's" with a grain of salt.)

    Good luck today wvgirl!  We're with you in spirit!!

    KathyL--please don't fret over the calendar.  If it's too much, just say so.  You're in anticipation mode and it's really a stressful time.  There are lots of us here that can do the calendar (although I'm not sure how in the heck we can post it--maybe I can edit my original comment that started the thread, so it will appear at the top of the page every time?).  Get yourself through your last days at work so you can enjoy your chemo-cation! :)

    Sherry--I got Neulasta in the arm.  The bugger stung going in and continued to sting for almost 2 hours after.  It wasn't too bad (till the se's kicked in for me!).  And remember, LJ13 sailed through neulasta!  Maybe I'm the weirdo (wouldn't be the first time).

    Dana--I think it's great you're getting into nursing.  This experience will only make you a better health-care provider.  Please talk to your med team about your concerns re: germs/masks.  I plan to attend every high school basketball game for my daughter and was worried about being in the crowds.  My doc told me to take a mask with me and when the guy next to me starts coughing to give him the mask!  You're going to get through this, not to worry.

    Okay, off to try the shower.  Hmmm.  Maybe I'll eat some more before I head up--don't want to miss an opportunity to graze!

    Later, JJs.

    D1

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  • Determined1
    Determined1 Member Posts: 806
    edited January 2008

    Oh, one more thing.  I want to second Diana63's comment about something else filling the cancer void.  My 18 year old daughter said the most amazing thing to me over this Christmas break from college.  She said, "Won't it be great, Mom?  A year from now you'll wake up in the morning and your first thought WON'T be--Oh yeah, I have cancer."  Sometimes our kids are more wise than their years.

    D1

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  • Diana63
    Diana63 Member Posts: 773
    edited January 2008

    I'm still holding on, the aching is gone and no nausea so far.  

    Vettegal, I know what you mean, seems like everyone is getting on my nerves lately.

    D1, your daughter sounds like mine, they do come up with some very deep wise things once and a while. We just cant let them know that, or it will go to thier heads.

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  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited January 2008

    CarolC, did you have a MUGA scan re: the cardio toxicity issue? I too was worried about this as all my nuclear family deaths have been pretty much heart disease related (with an occasional stroke here and there, no cancer, of course). My MUGA result was like 75.9, which got me a "wow" from the onc., so I put aside worries (for me it was related to the Adriamycin), decided to keep exercising throughout treatment to keep my heart strong, and hope for the best. Live strong.

    Ok, just read your response to Diana. MUGA scan shows how well your heart is functioning ... the left ventricular evacuation rate. What it means essentially is how much the left ventricle is pumping out at each beat. It is the standard measure of heart function it terms of pumping capacity: echocardiograms show valves opening and closing, but not pumping capacity. It's a painless and easy test: couple of shots into the vein, go lay down a while, and after maybe 20 minutes it's over. Ask your doctor about it.

    DanaC, a coworker had all her nodes removed with Stage 3a cancer 8 years ago and she works out religiously ... never had a hint of lymphedema. The doc can provide much good info. about preventing it, and as usual, prevention is key. Your worries about the cancer returning are there for me too ... try scheduling a time where you are "allowed" to think about this issue, give it 15 minutes on the schedule, then when the thoughts return, push them away til they're scheduled to return. I read this is a good way to deal with negative thoughts: you don't want to constantly push them away, so you need to honor the need to think about/feel stuff, but it's important not to dwell on and get caught up in stuff that isn't so important right at this moment. Really, getting through the treatment and maximizing the ability of these chemo agents to kill our cancers should be our top priority, so other stuff is subjugated in terms of the amount of thought/energy they are allowed.

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  • vettegal
    vettegal Member Posts: 287
    edited January 2008

    ok ladies I am being silly today. I ordered a wig on line from acewigs.com they had a wig that was 159.00 on clearance for 49.00 bucks so i said "WTF" I ordered it on Near years eve and it just arrived and I sitting typing this wearing this really cool wig....I just came home from work and the box was at my door...my dh is not home yet so i am just "playing" with it, my luck i have it on backwords or something. My dog is looking at me going "mommie is that you?" i think i scared him. it is a deep rust color and i think it looks HOT. it could be my out with the girls evening or out with friends. I already got the other one, I think i am just wiggin out right now...

          for the ladies on chemo can you drink alcohol on chemo?

    also, has anyone notice any hormonal changes yet? They told it may push me to early meonpause ( i am 42) just seeing if anyone noticed anything....

               I am just preparing my self for the worst.....oh crap!

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  • vettegal
    vettegal Member Posts: 287
    edited January 2008
    Ladies....FYI we have 29 Jan Jewels...just did some counting....WOWLaughing
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  • golfer779
    golfer779 Member Posts: 1,378
    edited January 2008

    Dana, just a quick note since I'm at work.  I saw a physical therapist yesterday and she informed me that I could do just about anything once I'm healed from surgeries.  I had a total of 34 nodes removed and was a little extra concerned myself.  She did say that repetitive motions could be a concern.  Such as lifting weights, or pulling, tugging on exercise equipment.

    I did not mean to put more questions in your head in regards to second opinions, I just wanted you to feel like it would be okay, if you chose to do so.  I guess it was somewhat my own insecurity of letting my doc know that I wanted another opinion, he said any good doc would think that was great.  Certainly if your satisfied with your onc, you'll be in good hands!

    Hang in there gal, and kuddos for the profession you picked!!!  Carol

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  • sheshe48
    sheshe48 Member Posts: 338
    edited January 2008

    Hi Jewells,

     CarolC  Sorry you had to join our club, so glad you are with us.

    Donna1955  I'm glad you did well on your first treatment. It also wiped me too. Last night I did not sleep well, I have stomach pains and craps throughout the night. I woke up with a bad headache and nausea thank God for Emend and Decadron, it helped to pull me through. Yes, drink lots and lots of water we have to flush that red dye out of our kidneys. I got my neulasta shot today I got it in my stomach the nurse said it's less painful and I feel she is right. I only felt a poke no bruning or hurting. Let us know how you are feeling and what SE's you are having. I'm going to get caught up reading the board this weekend, I have been wiped out too.

    Hugs to all

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  • golfer779
    golfer779 Member Posts: 1,378
    edited January 2008

    Dana, also if you can get an appt with a PT that specializes in lymphedema.  Mine took arm measurements so we have a baseline.

    Good luck,Carol

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  • deb102307
    deb102307 Member Posts: 248
    edited January 2008

    Hey Vettegal, sounds like you are at least having some fun.  Paula Young is another good website for wigs and they have good sales all the time too. Can't help with the menopause....been there, done that after surgery years back.

    Dana - Sorry that you are struggling with trying to stay positive.  I often wonder if the day will come when I am not thinking about it 24/7.  But I keep telling myself I can be depressed and miserable while dealing with this, or I can enjoy as much as I can while getting through it.  You are on the right track about getting our priorities back.  I look at things a whole lot differently.  Not always for the good as I now don't waste near as much time on people who tend to be rude and insensitive.  But on the reverse side, I sure do let the ones I love know it more often.  Try to keep positive and know that even though a down day may slip in there sometimes, good days will be there more often than not. 

    D1 - Glad to hear that you are feeling somewhat better.  Amazing what sleep will do isn't it?  Of course modern pharmaceuticals never hurt either Tongue out.  Hope you continue to feel better.

    As for me, my port goes in Monday and I am not too apprehensive about that but chemo starts Tuesday and the jitters are upon me.  Anxious to start yet scared too.  Oh well, I'll make it.  I've had a lot of warriors ahead of me showing me how.  Thanks for all the support that everyone shows.

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  • Determined1
    Determined1 Member Posts: 806
    edited January 2008

    Honest to God, Vettegal, you CERTAINLY are wiggin' out!!!  I drink, but not as much as I used to.  My med team told me it was okay to drink, but that I probably wouldn't feel like it.  At the time, I thought, "pft, you don't know me--I can put it away!"  But they were right, from about Day 3 through today, Day 8? (is that possible?) I haven't had as much.  One night in there I had some bourbon that was like from heaven, but haven't done much else.  I'm thinking my desire will kick in tomorrow (feeling almost like myself, but tired today) and I plan to partay!  Hormone changes?  Hmm.  Got my period on Jan. 1--as if back spasms weren't enough for the new year!  Hoping to see the end of that "visitor."  My long and tawdry cancer tale includes 3 blood tests to see if I was post-menopausal (if I had been, I didn't need chemo--not sure I ever understood why, but anyway).  Every single one of those blood tests came back and said I was past menopause, but I keep having periods.  Goes to show you they don't know everything!

    Sherry/Donna--you were both wiped out?  Did they give you Ativan?  I've talked to others who got ativan either in pill form beforehand, or as part of their cocktail, and they were zoned out from tx day.  I didn't get any of that, just the steroids to combat nausea and I was so wired I couldn't sit.  Another reminder that we are all individuals, I guess.  Hope you both continue to feel okay.  (Fingers are crossed that the nasty-lasta goes easy on you!)

    Carol--has your pt suggested an arm sleeve for you when you fly?  I'm so paranoid about lymphodema, myself, and don't know how far we have to go to protect ourselves for the rest of our lives.  There's another woman on this board who got a sleeve for air travel and even Hoda Kotb mentioned that she used one when she flew (which is, I'm sure, all the time).  Could I impose on you to perform a community service for us and check on that the next time you have pt?  (Unless, of course, chemo brain has kicked in by that time and we all forget!)

    LJ13--Excellent work on the MUGA description!  I was really wrapped about heart issues as my dad suffered from heart-related ailments till his death.  In fact, part of the reason I'm doing TC, rather than AC, was to avoid the long term potential heart damage (I went for the one that carries long term potential lung damage!).  I do agree with your advice on the exercise, however, I think we should all engage in some sort of activity as best we can while we go through this.  I'm convinced it will help our bodies and I know, from personal experience, that it will help our minds.

    And we're up to 29 facets!!!!  Thanks for the head count, Vettegal!

    Off to watch my kid in her basketball game--hope she doesn't get splinters from riding the pine tonight!  (I'll have to share how she's not coping with bc another time.  Poor kid.)

    Signing off as a spasm-free D1!!!

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  • wvgirl
    wvgirl Member Posts: 196
    edited January 2008

    I am back with Great News my BRAC test came back today Negative Yea -:-)

    Thank you D1 and Shesha for the effects on your  neulast shot. I will be getting mine tomorrow I will ask if stomach please..

    Deb-102307 I had my port put in Dec 27(belated Christmas Present)

    I was sore for about 3 days.Had my first treatment today so far so good Except for only 3 hours sleep last night caused by the steroids..I bought  some Tylenol Pm for tonight hope it helps..

    Vettegal-I too have been wigging out I had a bright red had wig I told my co workers to watch out i might become RED HOT....Oscar is really cute..

    I was told to except Chemo Brain as my friend calls it..Forgetfulness how bad can it get?

    My neighbor is a PT I need to make it a point to go for a visit and ask for some tips..Even though I wont have surgery it looks like June.All Chemo First. I will let you ladies know what she tells me.

    Take care Jewles{}{}{}Hughs to ALL(((())))

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  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited January 2008

    Chemo brain. There's another boat I missed. My mind has been more clear since they pumped the AC into me than any time since I quit smoking 10 years ago. No joke, I felt like I lost 20 IQ points when I quit smoking and never got them back. Now, rather than what has become the usual "um, uh" 10-second wait for the word I'm trying to think of to come to mind, it pops in in 1-2 seconds, and I barely miss a beat.

    What's up with that?

    I feel like the AC cleaned out some cobwebs that have been forming over the past 10 years.

    Re: my continuing incomplete diagnosis: they called me yesterday and told me to show up at 1:00 for another breast biopsy. This is in response to me calling earlier in the day to see if my ER/PR/HER2Neu results were in yet. So I get prepared to work 1/2 day ... then they call halfway through the morning to say that the lab thinks they have enough tissue to run the dx tests. This is "deja vu all over again" as we had this exact same drill about 4 weeks ago. So now they want me to be on standby for a biopsy Monday afternoon. If this weren't such a good hospital, I swear I'd think they were a bunch of nincompoops. All the while I'm wondering how good the results can be on tumor cells that have gotten the 1-2 punch from last week's AC.

    Aggravating.  

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  • SISKimberly
    SISKimberly Member Posts: 762
    edited January 2008

    Well...the lights went out in Lincoln today, so I haven't had a chance to get caught up until now- after 5pm Pacific time...I'm normally on in the AM.



    I've read all the posts from my last one and man are we a talkative bunch.



    D1/LJ13/MAZ- I'm 100% with you about all of us having moments of sheer panic and fear, but that our only real choice is to put one foot in front of the other and remember "this too shall pass". We will all be better, faster, stronger than before...oh, wait that's the Bionic Woman...well, we certainly will be stronger for having gone through this experience and richer for having done it together.



    D1/OLE- I'm so glad you convinced your med team to give you a muscle relaxer...that you got to cuddle up with your afghan in the basement for an hour of Celebrity Apprentice (used to like that show the first two seasons, but can't take looking at the Donald's hair anymore. He can certainly afford to get hair implants-my hubby did and loves his new hair. He had it done in Canada by Dr. Armani...now come on, the Donald certainly could some mileage out of a new hairline by Armani...). Glad you're feeling better and up to attending your highschool age daughter's b-ball game...and the words of your college gal...aren't kids just the greatest when it counts?



    OK, the girls are 'tight' at the moment. I have two more visits, and think maybe one more might do the trick, but he wants to stretch the skin enough so it will have a 'natural droop' when the exchange occurs. We'll see. I don't know that I want to be a 38 D again. Smaller might not be so bad.



    What's the deal with the blisters on one leg...you said you have mouth blisters...but leg blisters is a bit strange...let us know when you get that one figured out.



    And...yeah...what the heck on getting your period Miss Menopause? Those blood tests obviously have a wide range of normal because that doesn't make sense. At any rate, I heard chemo should put you into chemopause and that it may or may not be permanent. You've had only one chemo round correct? Maybe after the next one you won't have to worry about getting your period.



    AZ Donna and SheShe-Sorry to hear you are both whooped...but hang in there...one down...



    Carol- I can understand you feeling 'left out' with such a different regiment than the rest of us... the not knowing so sucks...but we'll all be here for you when you start having whatever se's you have...and certainly someone else will have the same cocktail as you...I thought someone else had a similar thing...can't recall (prechemo brain). No problem bugging me when we start RADs down the line...glad to know we will be doing it together. Yes, I do have sensitivity to clothing under my arms...and sleeping in my birthday suit is such a relief not having cloth rubbing up against me. Even my flannels after a while start rubbing.



    Dana, how did your appt. go today?



    WVgirl-glad to hear from you. How did things go today? I don't get why you and others have AC first and then do T after AC is done. I have all three at the same time once every three weeks for 6 weeks.

    Interesting. Great news on the BRCA test. My dad and twin just had theirs done. My insurance won't cover mine because I didn't have enough cancer in my family line-oh please. Dad got his covered because he's had breast cancer and my twin got hers covered because Dad had cancer and I have cancer. Between both of them, I won't need to do it. If Dad is positive, Kathleen will be as well, and that means I certainly will.



    Kathy-Working on your feet all day is exhausting then add kids and parents and paperwork and doctors...no wonder you're about to fall over, not to mention the stress of having bc, work not being kind about your leave, and your dad having a heart attack and now surgery on the 9th...Yeah...there's been a little stress in your world, girl. Hope you got a good nights sleep...only a few more days and you can slow down and take a chemotini break...isn't that awful that you have to have chemo to slow down? I'm exhausted just thinking of what you're dealing with.



    Carol C- Welcome to the JJ's. You've found a wonderful group of women who will give you support, guidance, validation, a pep talk, and whatever else you need.



    Hey Diana63, welcome to you too. See above. I recognize you from other threads. First chemo's down...glad all has gone well so far. Great Dragon and Knight poem by the way. It does fit this battle that we're waging...lift your swords girls, we're off to slay the dragon!!!!



    Oh Dana, I hope your oncologist answered all of your questions and that other gals already responding to your post have been of assistance. One thing we know for sure...no one knows how you'll react to your chemo. You may very well be able to continue to work and go to school-wonderful choice of profession...what a wonderful perspective you will bring to your patients- without any trouble. Just get plenty of rest and eat well to keep up your strength- working and going to school is exhausting enough without bc treatments on top of it all. Your last paragraph was right on!!!! Bravo!



    Vettegal- look at you all red hot! Negative Nodes has turned you into a red siren eh? Watch out dh!

    I haven't even looked at wigs yet. Don't think I will until I start losing my hair. I plan to just shave my head and go all natural, but trying on wigs just for fun might be a kick...and who knows...maybe I'll like the drama of being able to be any color/style I want.



    OK, I think I'm caught up. Sleep well for those heading into evening, have an energy filled day for those of you waking.



    Your SIS (Sister In Survival)

    Kimberly

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  • KathyL
    KathyL Member Posts: 534
    edited January 2008

    Hi JJs! I read through all 10 pages of posts today to get the list going.  But first some comments, etc...

    Dana:  From one nurse to another-- I used to say and now firmly believe the best nursing experience is being a patient.  It teaches you more than any book will (motherhood also did the same for me and my kids are only 2 and 5).  I'm not sure about work--- it depends on the germ factor where you'll be.  I do peds.-- so I've opted to not work.  Flu, rotavirus, MRSA infections are not a good thing while on chemo and I see all that plus more on a daily basis.  I'm just hoping my little rugrats at home don't bring me something!  I agree with all the lymphedema comments.  Find a PT/OT that specializes in it if you can to get connected on what to do to avoid it.  As for being positive-- it takes time and practice.  I remember how hopeless and sad I felt when I was dx in August.  4 months and 3 surgeries later I am doing better, but it takes practice and lots of talking (like here!).  But don't get me wrong-- it's a roller coaster ride and some days are better than others.  One suggestion-- find a good psychotherapist.  Another nursing rule-- practice what you preach and take care of yourself first (I see a GREAT therapist who has helped me immensely and recommend to all going through any chronic illness or acute situation-- hey we have both!).  Hang in there.  We'll all get through this.  And think of what a great nurse you'll be in the end.  P.S.  You can send me a message anytime if you want to talk more about nursing.  I was also a college nursing instructor and staff nurse for a while before I was an NP.

    D1:  Cytoxan causes mouth sores.  I'm going to be doing the same TC as you and that's the offender!

    Sheery:  I've never heard of the "neu-nasty" shot given in the belly-- so interesting!  Glad to hear it didn't hurt.  Maybe it's b/c we have more subcutaneous tissue there??  If shots are given SC (:under the skin") it's less painful than in the muscle (like in an arm). I'll have to look it up in one of my nursing books sometime...  OK, curiosity got the best of me and I checked.  It IS given SC!  So the abdomen is one good spot for that type of shot (diabetics give insulin there all the time).  And our bellies have more SC tissue than our arms, so that's why it hurts less there.  D1-- maybe you can do yours there??

    LJ13--  I totally agree on the MUGAs.  I had one, too.  I'm so impressed your EF was in the 70s.  Mine was 65% and I thought that was good for someone who really does no exercise  other than chase her kids around!  Note to self-- I think I'll be starting some kind of exercise now since you guys are all so hung-ho.  I'm inspired...

    Vettegal:  Don't fret about being one of the last to start.  I don't start until the 16th, and I'm doing herceptin for a year (starting with my TC regimen on the 16th), so I'll be around for a while :) 

    WV-- congrats on the negative BRCA!!

    All right, I found all 29 names.  Some I haven't seen in a while.. so update me if you want to add more to our list other than your name.  They include:

    LBCurtis2007

    Carstell

    sunshine99

    sheebas

    A few started early December, and I also don't have much on them:

    KMK

    Sharon68

    Patti5: started 12/10, doing AC x4 then T x4

    For everybody else.. see the next post....

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  • KathyL
    KathyL Member Posts: 534
    edited January 2008

    The January Jewels:

    D1 (OLE/our fearless leader): started 12/27, doing TC every 3 weeks x4 via IV.  other infusion dates: 1/16, 2/6, 2/27.  50th b-day 2/11

    LJ13: started 12/27, doing AC every 2 weeks x4, then T every 2 weeks x4 via port

    yuyubear: started 12/27, doing TC every 3 weeks x4

    Diane B: started 12/27

    Deeat58: started 12/27, doing AC every 3 weeks x4, then T for 12 weeks

    Sheshe48 (sherry): started 1/3, doing AC via PICC line every 3 weeks x4.  other infusion dates: 1/24, 2/14, 3/6

    JulieK: started 1/3, CAF every 3 weeks x6

    Donna1955 (AZ Donna): started 1/3, doing AC every 2 weeks x4, then T every 2 weeks x4 via IV.  other infusions dates: 1/17,1/31,2/14, 3/6, 3/20, 4/3,4/17).  53rd b-day 4/26

    jkiss75 (Jenny): started 1/3, doing AC every 2 weeks x4, then T every 2 weeks x4

    Diana63: started 1/3, doing AC

    WVgirl: started 1/4, doing T every 3 weeks x4, then AC every 3 weeks x4 via port

    kilika48063: started 1/4, doing AC/T 4 rounds

    ILoveWolf (Kimberly): starting 1/8, doing TAC every 3 weeks x6, ?via port

    Deb102307: starting 1/8, doing AC every 2 weeks x4, then T every 3 weeks x4 via port

    Golfer779 (Carol): starting 1/10, doing CMF for 6 months via port

    KathyL (me): starting 1/16, doing TC/herceptin every 3 weeks x4, then herceptin alone every weeks for a full year via port

    Camazur (Maz): starting 1/16, doing TAC every 3 weeks x6 via port

    CarolC: starting 1/16, doing Xeloda and Taxol x4

    Twinkly: starting?, doing FEC every 3 weeks x6 via IV

    Vettegal: unsure of start date and regimen as of yet

    DanaC: unsure of start date and regimen as of yet

    OK, that's everyone in order of start date!  I'll try to remind the day before of who's starting next if I can.  If any info is wrong or needs updating, let me know.  Vettegal and Dana: let me know when you get your info to be added (do not despair!)

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  • LilWarrior
    LilWarrior Member Posts: 268
    edited January 2008

    Ladies - I had such a great day - got off of school/work at 11pm and got up this morning at 7am to go to the Onco and guess what he cancelled all appts right when I arrived for some emergency he had. I just laughed and the Nurses where shocked at my behavior, I told them its okay its nothing to get mad or upset about I have bigger fish to fry and to get upset about.  So needless to say it has been rescheduled for Tuesday but this time I told them I want a later appt so I dont have to get up so early.  I was so tired.

     I had surgery two weeks ago and still I find myself tired, is that normal?  I want to get back to the gym to build up my strength and endurance but the surgeon said to wait a while, so now I find myself so tired.  I know it sounds strange but when you exercise you really have more energy. 

    D1- You have such a great funny personality - you make me laugh so hard when I read your notes.  That is what I will do when I see someone coughing and sick I will hand them the mask instead.  He ha.  They need it more then I do Wink.  

    Diana, thanks for the poem its pretty! Sorry if I am slow but did you just start chemo?  If so, how was it?  I am glad to hear you are not sick yet, that is just great news.  I have heard from so many people that it is actually doable and you will be fine and that they have so many meds that will help you with side effects that is if you ever get any - I pray you dont!

    Vettegal, I guess we both are starting chemo around the same time - I pray you and I will be fine!  I think we will be because we have so many wonderful fighters/survivors here that made it so we will too.  I think we should just take one day at a time and learn to relax.  I am honestly getting excited to getting this chemo done because its one more step closer to recovery and being healed!  You too will be strong and wonderful thru all this!!!Laughing  I know what you mean putting on your head phones was hard, shoot wiping my hinny was even harder - he ha.  It sure makes you appreciate your arms, breast and etc.  That is why I embrace all this because there is a positive reason behind all this and I know we will all recieve it.  I am so happy now since surgery - it has been two weeks and I am almost completely back using my arm; I do feel tingling and numbing a lot but I am hoping that too will subside in time. Oh yea the great part about having wigs is that you can be a different woman each day, blonde, red, brunette or nothing.  You have the option to change it to your mood if you wanted to!  Sounds like you will be very pretty wearing them! I also heard drinking on Chemo is not good, but you might want to ask because I have just it from other people that experience chemo! I guess it might depend on your WBC - which is your white blood count.

    LJ13, thanks I will see the surgeon again to remove the stitches on Tue and I will ask him again can I start working out. He yells at me all the time and tells me that I am his first patient that wants to be superwoman.  He ha.  I just cant lay in bed all day, I have to workout or I get really tired and lazy and lately I feel so tired and I know its because of lack of exercise.  I thank you so much for your advice and I will get back in the gym and start running because it surely looks like I have gained some weight in the last two weeks.

    Thanks for your advice on the negative thinking - it doesnt happen often but when it does I get so mad thinking like that!  Negative thoughts produce negative mind and body!  Thanks again Sweetie! 

    Carol,  Sweetie you are helping me - never second guess anything you say to me, I was just wondering why I should get a second opinion. I will feel out this Dr on Tues and if he doesnt feel right or sound right I will get a second opinion.  I thank you for all your advice you and everyone else has been so helpful to me and I cant say thanks for all you do for me.  I will ask to see a PT because with HMO they surely dont want to do much unless you push the issue! Thanks for the compliment about my profession, I know it sounds strange but I am a little happy to endure all this because when you encounter people that are fighting Cancer or diseases and you have no hands on experience just book smart it really makes a different.  I am just in clinical hours now and I have touched so many people with my experience because I have met so many people down and depressed and I try to inspire them and give them hope never to give up.  I love my field of work, I feel so great when I can make someone smile and laugh, its the best gift I can give!  Just like all these women here give me Strength!!!

    Deb, you are right be positive or be negative.  Its not often but sometimes I think about those crazy things.  I am in school now from Christmas break so I dont have time to think negative, now is the time to focus on my patients and school!  I love my school because I have to focus on other patients concerns and worries and not mines - which is great to me!  He ha.  Thanks for your kind words and encouragement. 

    Wolf, yes we are a talkative bunch - were women!  He ha - that is what women do well talk, talk, talk and talk.  It helps us unlike men they hold it in and become grouchy.  He ha - Just kidding dont want to offend a women out there who have wonderful husband or boyfriends.   

    I told my girlfriends I cant wait to start Chemo and lose all my hair -its a new fade - he ha.  I will look like Britney Spears but I will wear my panties.  He ha.  

    I wish you all a beautiful weekend, May God continue to give you all strength and wisdom and may you continue to spread your great love.

    Hugs and KissesInnocent,

    Dana 

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  • LilWarrior
    LilWarrior Member Posts: 268
    edited January 2008

    Kathy,  Thanks sweetie I will be precautious.  I havent gotten sick yet being around all the sick students (friends) and patients but then again my WBC hasnt been affected by chemo neither.  I am just praying with the grace of God I can continue because I only have 9 months left and I know in my heart this is the field I want to be in.  I love nursing - its such a great joy to touch someones life and heart.  I cry with my patients and I laugh with them, I grow to love so many of them and yet after 3 months of that clinical you move onto another site but I dont forget them.  After surgery i went to both sites and brought the eldery at the nursing homes gifts because I know they feel alone and lonely - their families never visit and its just sad so I enjoy sharing my love.  I want to be a mother as old as I am 37 but I leave it to God because his in my planner not I.  Thanks, I will for sure reach out to you from Nurse to Nurse.   You are so right, I do embrace this and I am slightly happy that I am enduring this because it helps me encourage others when I tell them hey I have Cancer too and I am being positive and you should too.  It makes so many of the patients mouth drop with a awe really and you still get up every day and go to school and work.  I tell them each day is a blessing and God has plans for you and me - get busy living!  Life is too short!!!!  

    Thanks again Kathy and trust me I will reach out - God bless ya and your family! 

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  • Determined1
    Determined1 Member Posts: 806
    edited January 2008

    KathyL--You're a star!!!

    D1

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  • Determined1
    Determined1 Member Posts: 806
    edited January 2008

    wvgirl--great news on the BRCA test!!  Are you still feeling okay?  Been thinking about you.

    LJ13--you make me jealous.  Ten years ago I developed chemo brain and didn't even know I was going to have cancer.  You go, girl.

    My daughter played great tonight.  She got her most time so far--about 7 minutes.  She hit a "3" right away and had a couple of steals and scored again later on a garbage shot (got someone's rebound and scored).  She was happy.  I was happy.  I even managed to get to my favorite seat at the top of the bleachers where you can lean against the wall.  Had to stop a couple of times on the way down because I was getting kinda dizzy, but I did it!  Life's good.

    Onward, ladies!

    D1

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  • camazur
    camazur Member Posts: 70
    edited January 2008

    KathyL--I wholeheartedly agree about having a therapist. I'm so lucky I have a great one as well. He has held my hand throughout this. He did me a phone session after my lumpectomy when I couldn't drive. He makes me tea. Plus he's 30 years old and really cute. (I turned 54 the day of my surgery. I figured it could be my re-birth day as well.)



    My port day was moved up to the 11th. I'm getting a MUGA scan the 9th. And I'm going wig shopping tomorrow with my 20 year old daughter.

    At first the idea of wig shopping was so depressing I couldn't face it. But now I see I can have fun with it and why not? Thanks, Vettegal.



    Maz

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  • Diana63
    Diana63 Member Posts: 773
    edited January 2008

    Kimberly, when I read the poem I was thinking about all of you ladies that have already won the fight, and about all of us that are just beginning on our quest.

    Vettegal, I wish that I could see your new wig I'll bet it looks great. My neighbor is going to give me 2 wigs and some hats and scarves.

    DanaC,  yes I started chemo yesterday, and today I took the shot to boost your immune system (I forgot to ask what it was called).

    I'm still achy all over but not real nauseous, I think the meds are helping a lot.

    Ok ladies here is some Jon Bon Jovi (eye candy Wink) to keep your faith Cool

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6U5gJZh5u2Y

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  • wvgirl
    wvgirl Member Posts: 196
    edited January 2008

    D1 Congrads to your daughter on her game.Laughing

    My 1st chemo went well no nausea. I just can't sleep due to the steroids. I took Tylenol last night it did not help. I am getting ready to go to get my naulasta shot this afternoon.

    Kathy L my you have been busy..

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  • deb102307
    deb102307 Member Posts: 248
    edited January 2008

    Good morning Jewels!

    Hope everyone is feeling well this morning and keeping the jitters under control (mine keep trying to sneak in).

    Hey Kimberly, was wondering if you had a port put in yet.  We start treatment on the same day and I get my port put in Monday.

    Well, time for breakfast.  Slept in today and it was so sweet!

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  • Donna1955
    Donna1955 Member Posts: 24
    edited January 2008

    Morning Jewels,

    I have a terrible headache and fell quissy, I am going back to bed for now and hopefully feel better later.  Hope everyone else is doing well.  I will check in later this afternoon

    Az donna

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