Jan 2008--Ain't it Great?

Options
1…2728303233…148

Comments

  • RN2teach
    RN2teach Member Posts: 312
    edited January 2008

    Hey Jewels,

    Looks like we all have the day off from chemo. Hope everyone has a good se-free Monday.

    HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY Jenn!!!! May your day be filled with love and laughter. We wish you many, many more birthdays to come!

    Kimberly- well, I didn't do much work yesterday,  but I found a wonderful poetry thread right here on breastcancer.org. You are so talented! You bring so much sunshine to our world. Thank you for being our Sister in Survival!

    SIS Paula

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • KathyL
    KathyL Member Posts: 534
    edited January 2008

    Good morning Jewels!

    It's amazing what sleeping in your own bed can do for you!  I'll be home all day checking things out here and going through the piles of stuff on my desk that accumulated while I was gone.  DH literally just kept the kids fed and clean and got the essentials taken care of-- but I must say I've got a good one b/c he really did pretty well.  He got most of the house cleaned and all the laundry and grocery shopping done.  The kids were bathed with brushed teeth and hair.  Wow!

    Some good info from Cathy-CA about the Topo2a test from UCLA's research.  One thing to remember about research studies... you really need to know how to read and analyze them.  I've done some research with my master's degree and it really is pretty tough (I hated it actually).  A good study has large sample size (not just 50 people, I mean hundreds or thousands), it has to be reproducible (so others need to do the SAME thing and find the same results, at least 1-2 more times for it to be "true" or valid)-- just to name a few things.  Plus you need to look at the statistical "stuff" it includes.  Cathy's point about the purpose of the study is important, too.  So a study might show something "groundbreaking" but not really be a good study or have no statistical merit.  Take any new info with a grain of salt, ladies.  Until you see it again and again, or until it becomes a "standard", it's just another piece of info out there unless you can verify the research's validity.  For instance... I had a staining done at UPenn on my tumor-- this is what found my "multifocal IDC" and prompted everyone to change my tx plan from no chemo to chemo.  Now, the staining I had done is not standard protocol.  BUT UPenn is highly respected and renouned for its cancer research.  They are cutting edge!  They have done this stain on thousands of people and even though it hasn't become mainstream yet in the US, it's almost a UPenn standard (they've verified it's valid, accurate, etc.)-- I know it's a good thing and it gave more info that is beneficial.

    DianeB:  Glad you are less stressed, but don't just let it go until later.  It sucks that you have to do this on top of fight cancer, but it can affect your entire future really.  And remember, you have a long future ahead!  Bankruptcy is not something you want to do... it is actually getting harder to do, and it can take a very long time to recoup losses.  Some people never return to good credit afterwards.  Please don't let that happen to you.  Most financial institutions want to see that you do something right now, rather than just let it go.  If you think you're having a hard time now, you do not want to see what can happen if you don't address this now.  I would highly suggest you take some action now even if it takes time b/c you aren't feeling well and can't do things as quickly as you like.  Make a partial payment at least on a bill and include a letter (even copy the same one and send to all) about why this is happening now, include your docs' names and numbers for them to call if they need to.  I'd even consider your family's generous suggestion-- maybe not exactly what they want to do with their mortgages, but how about getting their help with the bills for now?  That's what family is for!  So much easier to repay your "debt" to them rather than a creditor.  My mother (who is 61 and lives alone) had offered me money out of her retirement savings when we were scrambling for a plan.  I decided this was a last resort only, but it WAS an option.  Remember, you always have a choice, you just might not like all the options in front of you.  Choose wisely, young padawan!  OK, sorry to get on my soapbox with you.  Just don't want to see anything bad happen to a fellow Jewel when I can open my big mouth and say something that could help. 

    And by the way, I can't believe that "cow" at you cancer center!!  I'd like to kick her in the udders :)  People say the stupidest things sometimes.  And I too love the neupogen I got in the hospital.  NO aches or pains.  But it did burn a bit when injected.  I'm trying the Neulasta next round only b/c it's once and done (I hate needles, like D1).  If I have problems with it though, I'm back to the neupogen for the last 2 rounds.  They said it's for 10 days after each chemo-- how long do you do yours?

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • KathyL
    KathyL Member Posts: 534
    edited January 2008

    Oh yeah:  Happy Birthday Jenn51!!  Wishing you a great day with no SEs!

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Determined1
    Determined1 Member Posts: 806
    edited January 2008

    Happy, happy birthday Jenn!!!!!!

    (Please eat an extra piece of your mom's most delish chocolate cake for me!!!!)

    Smile all day. Laughing

    D1

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • chj127
    chj127 Member Posts: 382
    edited January 2008

    Good morning Jewels,

    I have a question - I am 10 days past my first tx, and today I feel like crap!  I'm constipated again, queasy, have prickly skin, and chills.  Honestly, I feel kind of like I did on day 4 or 5.  Has anyone else has a "relapse" when you were feeling good?  The past few days I have felt pretty darn good, but today I had a hard time dragging myself out of bed!  I guess it's possible I'm getting some other kind of illness (but I sure hope not).

    I was planning to go back to the office tomorrow (I only work 3 days per week, and worked from home all last week) but if I feel like this, there's no way I'm making the trip. 

    Thanks for your help, as always.

    CHJ 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited January 2008

    CHJ, a couple of us have had that happen.

    After my first Tx I felt "relapsy" at about Day 10 or 11.

    After my second Tx, I never felt relapsy, but it took a lot longer for me to feel better ... it went very slowly.

    After Tx #3, I'm having a relatively easier time.

    No 2 treatments seem to be the same.

    Feeling better isn't always a linear thing ... just ride it out, keep an eye on your temperature, and respect what your body is telling you.

    Hope you feel better soon. 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • SISKimberly
    SISKimberly Member Posts: 762
    edited January 2008

    Good Morning Jewels,

    Paula- I am so glad you found my threat Poetry Anyone? Glad you enjoyed my writing and the writing of others who have posted. I'm still mulling over a poem about baldacious babes...I've been working on a short story for an anthology of a writer friends of my stepmothers called HotFlashes and also just taking advantage of my feeling good week.



    DianaB- Loved your response to the 'cow'....way to go! Like Kathy said, the things that come out of people's mouths! I also agree that you can't just let this sit. If creditors know what's going on and you're able to work out a payment plan you can realistically afford at this juncture...that shows you aren't just trying to blow off your obligations...they'll work with you. With all the suggestions from CathyCA and KathyL, you've got many options and avenues for resolving this issue. I know it's exhausting...can your dh help with phone calls? Deep breath...we're here and sending out lots of positive energy to the universe to get this resolved for you, Cathy, and Dana.



    Kathy-I am so glad you're home and feeling better. Your dh sounds like a prince. Now to the mounds of paperwork eh? At least you can sit while you take care of that.



    CHJ- I didn't experience that...I too hope you're not coming down with something. Take care of yourself and do stay away from others if you're feeling sick...work from home again if that's an option.

    Take care of you.



    So today, I'm meeting a teacher friend at school...she's preparing for a sub today so she can spend time with her DD this afternoon (DD is up for snowboarding and takes the train home to SF where she's working on a combination teaching credential/Phd in Philosophy), so my friend is taking the day to spend the am with me and the pm with her). Then we're off for my last fill up. WhooHoo! Afterwards, I'm meeting another friend for lunch. Should be a fun day.



    Happy Birthday Jenn. Enjoy your day!!!!



    TaTa For Now Jewels,

    SIS Kimberly

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • sista2
    sista2 Member Posts: 53
    edited January 2008

    cathy CA and KathyL - thanks for your responses about the TOP2A.  i was really wondering more if it's something we should know about our cancer (if we have that gene) as opposed to questioning our current treatment. the fda report says that it's a test that helps "assess the risk of reoccurance and long term survival".  that's the part i was interested in.  i meant to link that report which doesn't mention specific treatments. i don't deny being fuzzy-headed at all! 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Cathy-CA
    Cathy-CA Member Posts: 686
    edited January 2008

    Sista -- Based on Dr. Slamon's research you don't need to be tested, because you can't have the gene.  According to the information he presented, only people who are Her2/neu+ overexpress the gene.  That's roughly 25% of people with breast cancer.  Of those roughly 30% benefitted from Adriamycin.  If you multiple 25% times 30%, you get the 8% figure he uses in his presentation.

    Of course, since Dr. Slamon is closely associated with Her2/neu+ research, I don't know that anyone has looked at a broad cross-section of Her2/neu- patients to see if some small subset of those DO overexpress Topo2a.  Until someone does, I think only Her2/neu+ patients would be tested for Topo2a.

    Because Her2/neu+ was historically associated with poor long-term outcomes, the Topo2a test gives more information about designing a treatment that might improve success and that's what the FDA report references.  However, since the advent of Herceptin and it's approval for early stage cancer, those numbers seem to be changing dramatically.  That's why Dr. Slamon is so anti-Adriamycin.  He's saying that Herceptin is so effective that it makes the small gains from using Adriamycin in Topo2a+ patients almost statistically insignificant.  Dr. Slamon is considered one of the "fathers" of Herceptin, so I always take that into account when reading his studies, but it's still fascinating stuff.  As someone who is Her2/neu+, it sort of bothers me that I can't find much research other than Dr. Slamon's just because I'd feel better if I could read study after study saying the same thing.  But, Herceptin has only had approval for about two years for early stage breast cancer, so there just aren't any long-term, large participant studies available.

    ---------------------------------------------------
    Dx 10/24/2007, IDC, 2cm, Stage IIa, Grade 3, 0/3 nodes, ER-/PR-, HER2+

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Diana63
    Diana63 Member Posts: 773
    edited January 2008

    Kathy & Kimberly, I have been trying to work with everyone but right now I don't even have the money to work out payment arrangement's. Believe me I don't want to file bankruptcy but I am running out of resource's. As I said I have contacted my congresswoman I will see where that leads me. My work is also trying to get the new insurance company to wave the waiting time to instate my insurance, its the same company that I had before just a different policy.

    I will also see the financial aid at the hospital that I am taking chemo at ASAP, I heard that sometimes drug companies have to donate a certain amount of chemo per year. (I think)

    I didn't mean to sound like I am just going to let it all go and file bankruptcy, I am still trying but I cant get as worked up as I was. I was going to stop my chemo and skip any treatment, thats why my family was so upset. I will just take it a step at a time and do everything they tell me to do, and hope that I will get some help from someplace.

    The thing is I can pay for insurance but I cant get covered, I had it at my old job but they filed bankruptcy and that meant no Cobra for me. I know that it will all work out and I will keep trying Laughing

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • wvgirl
    wvgirl Member Posts: 196
    edited January 2008

    Afternoon Sisters,

    I am trying to work at lunch now. Having bad stomach cramps. Drank some Smooth Move tea last night. Took a Ducalax at 4 am. Still no relief.

    I waited on a customer this morning helping him with his bills. He told me he was dx with bladder cancer had operation. He was sent to another hospital for further testing they were wanting to remove everything but his test came back neg. GOD IS GOOD I was glad to have been the one to wait on this customer. Renewed my fait  even more than before.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • deb102307
    deb102307 Member Posts: 248
    edited January 2008

    Hello Jewels,

    Happy Birthday Jenn51

    wvgirl Hope things start "moving" for you soon.

    Hope everyone is relatively se free today.  I never really had a relapse except for fatigue.

    Looks like friday Feb 2nd will be my next attempt at treatment #2.  Hopefully my ANC will come up.  Thanks to everyone that helped me understand that.  After #2, I will be taking the Neupogen and Procrit injections so hopefully that will keep my treatment plan on schedule.

    Well, looks like lunch time is over.

    Catch ya'll later!

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • KathyL
    KathyL Member Posts: 534
    edited January 2008

    Busy afternoon here again on board...

    CHJ:  Keep an eye on your temperature and call your doc if it goes above 100.5!  You sure sound like you're coming down with something.  I felt great until day 9-- that's when my hospital fiasco began.  I hope you do not end up there, too.  Remember you're day 10 and probably still in your nadir-- so wash hands, wash hands, wash hands!  Stay away from sick people, too!  Keep us posted on how you're feeling. 

    SIS Kimberly:  Congrats on finishing your pump-up boobs!  Take a look at those beautiful girls and just imagine how nice they'll be when the implants are there instead-- ahhh!  Something to look forward too Smile

    Diana63:  It all just sucks!  I'm sendin big hugs to you and hoping something comes up in your favor soon.  I know how you feel-- I told my DH I wouldn't start chemo if we didn't have our finances in order beforehand.  I was so stressed out until we had a plan and then papers were signed.  Hang in there!

    WVGirl:  One word for you, honey (from a fellow "problem pooper")-- MIRALAX!  Get some today and I swear you'll feel better tomorrow.

    Deb102307:  I'll be asking about Procrit before my next round.  I'm already getting the Neulasta to combat the low WBCs after next round, but my H/H is low right now and I'm wondering if I'll need something for that, too.  I do not want to be on iron-- more constipation issues then--- aaaccck!

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • sista2
    sista2 Member Posts: 53
    edited January 2008

    Cathy-CA - thanks for clearing that up for me.  the research being done really is fascinating and exciting what discoveries will be made in the near future.  unfortunately the research and studies take so much time.  i am currently having the genetic testing done, as my sister had bc at the age of  33, i'm 43.  no other history at the time so who'd of thought?  anyway, i have three daughters so i'm very concerned. hopefully they'll never have to deal with any of this but it's encouraging to see important discoveries being made for everyone now. 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • golfer779
    golfer779 Member Posts: 1,378
    edited January 2008

    Boy miss a day and its overwhelming ... the support/info to each other is fabulous.  Figure I'll pitch in my two cents ...

    wvgirl, go with the Miralax, its non-cramping/gassy and works well.  In fact I'm probably the least gassy I've ever been (tmi)Surprised.  I sure hope that your dh gets with it or will have to refer to the "dh" as something other than dear husband in your case.  I hope that maybe you can use Kimberly's tactics to maybe get him motivated in the right direction.  If I could, I would send some of the compassion that my dh has your way.  You hang in there and always remember that we're all really here for you.

    Kathy, glad to hear your back home, hopefully for good.  Its also nice to hear your takes on alot of the issues with your background in the med field.   For being down for the count, you sure do a good job with D1 in keeping us all up to date.  Bravo to you both!!!!

    Vettegal, I had to take a double take on the pics to see which was the wig as well.  I'd say you got a good one!!!  Although, you make a pretty bald woman as well.

    Dana, hoping that you have some encouraging help from atleast one of the ideas Cathy and others have put forth.  I had my own issues with referal services early on and that added stress is not what any of us need at this time.

    Kimberly, oooooohhhhhh, I'm so jealous of the wine tasting.  Its been three weeks with no vino, and its starting to sound better and better all the time.  Sad to say, but I tried a non-alcoholic Becks beer over the weekend and it tasted pretty darn good.  Havn't had one of those since I was pregnant about 16 years ago. 

    CathyCA, my two oncs up here in Seattle have pretty much gone with the philosophy of not using Adriamycin as well, for someone like me with ER/PR+ and Her2- their saying that the chemo therapy is a small part of the entire txt plan and that the best benefit I can get will actually be from the tamoxifan txt in the future.   I need to keep those ovaries in check, producing no estrogen will be best.

    Paula, having a son turning 16 in a few months I can relate to the driving thing and teens, scary!!! 

    Jenn, Happy Birthday to you, your day is shared with my bestfriend of 38 years!!!!

    DianeB, keep warm, looks like more snow for us tonight!!!

    I'm with you all, I'll take the great pics your all sharing and deal with the funky layout on those pages, keep on sharing those pics!!!

    So what's up with you all taking the nasty Neulasta (or something similar).  Is that because your white count is low or is it just a normal part of your txt plan?

    Lastly, on the period thing, mine has not reared its ugly self yet this month, but I do have one sore hoot, just like I would with the real deal.  I guess the good news is that I now only have one sore hoot instead of two!!!

    Take care all, Carol

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • vettegal
    vettegal Member Posts: 287
    edited January 2008

    Hello jewels- took today off to battle some of the fatigue. got a lil dizzi this morning not too bad. Took some senokot for constipation, was craving some serious chinese food so i sent the dh out to get some. (that should help me with the constipation also)Sealed

    So much going on on the boards can't keep up with it...

    EVERYONE is in my thoughts and prayers today...

    HUGS    xxxooo

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Determined1
    Determined1 Member Posts: 806
    edited January 2008

    What a day, what a day!

    First of all, Deb,  I'm so glad you have a tx#2 scheduled.  You wrote that it was to be Fri, Feb 2, but Fri is Feb 1, so I'm going with Feb 1.  And I hope the neupogen and procrit injections are what's needed to keep you on schedule.  You do not need to suffer that disappointment again.

    WVgirl--Sorry to hear that your pooper is not popping.  Looks like you got some ringing endorsements for miralax, so I'd give it a go!  (Hmm.  Was that a bad pun, maybe?)  Oh, and I've got to tell you, since Carol kinda brought it up.  When I first started on these boards I kept reading dh, dh, dh and I knew it was shorthand for husband, but I didn't know what on earth the "d" could stand for.  So I posted a comment and asked, "Does dh stand for dickhead???"  (You know where my affections for my husband lie...)  Anyway, the gals on that thread and I decided that sometimes our dh's are dickheads, so whenever you see me use all caps for dh, you'll know I mean my guy is being a dickhead at that moment and when it's in lower case, it means dear husband.  I think we could all use that rule of thumb on this thread, too!

    Diana63--I'm glad you're trying to resolve your finance situation.  I can't imagine the additional stress that is for you and I'm so sorry for it.  Please don't give up on it.

    So, SIS Kimberly, your girls are the full grown size now, are they?  You pleased?  So when do they switch them out?  (Sorry, I'm not up on the recon lingo--I chose the Frankenboob route and was not disappointed!)  And I must say, you sound really good--glad you're making the most of your "feel good" days.

    CHJ--Both LJ13 and KathyL are right.  I, too, have experienced a "set back" day after a chain of good ones, but I do think, given KathyL's experience, that it would be prudent to keep an eye on your temp, just in case.

    Carol--I know you feel left out not getting the nasty-lasta.  But count your lucky stars, girl.  That f*cking shot makes all your joints so unbelieveably painful that you can't even walk for 2 days.  The reason is that it boosts white blood cell production for those of us on chemotinis that wipe out our white blood cells.  Without the shot, we're at serious risk for infection (reference KathyL's recent visit to the hospital for evidence of what happens to us without the boost).  The neupogen shot you see some of us talk about, does the same thing, but it's given in a series of 5 injections (rather than one) and as a result, the se's aren't as bad (some say there are none).  The difficulty with 5 injections is that patients either have to go to their treatment center every day for 5 days to get the shot, or, as many do, self-inject it (not happening for me that way, no sir!).  Does that help?

    Vettegal--was thinking about you today, sister.  I'm so happy that you're still doing okay.  Enjoy the Chinese and keep those se's at bay!!!

    Today I ran all over the place (I LOVE the feel good days!).  I'm hoping that the 3rd time will be the charm with my glasses rx--I saw my eye doc and then ran the new rx over to LensCrafters to have them make me some new specs.  Unfortunately, they aren't ready in an hour as I've picked out some rimless frames and those have to be sent out, but I should have them in 2 weeks (I tried to push the guy to have them ready by the 8th cuz I told him I'd be in se hell the 9th-11th and would like to be able to see all the tivo'd crap I'd be watching for those days.  He's gonna try.)

    Then I saw my p/t.  We worked over my pelvis alignment some more and she gave me some exercises to do at home to help with that.  Then I rolled over and got my butt massage.  Hmmmmmm.  Made me drool again.

    Finally, in between many other errands, I put together and posted a valentine's care package for my college girl.  Made me happy cuz I know she'll be pleased to get it.

    Now I'm ready to crash!!!  Can't handle as much running around in a day as I used to!

    Off to make dinner.

    See yous all later, Jewels.

    D1

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Determined1
    Determined1 Member Posts: 806
    edited January 2008

    SIS Kimberly!  Grab the cape and the glass!!  We'll be thinking of you as you go for another round of chemotini tomorrow.

    Good luck!!

    D1

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • golfer779
    golfer779 Member Posts: 1,378
    edited January 2008

    D1 - leave it to you to actually ask if dh was "dickhead", you crack me upLaughing!  

    Okay I'm squared away on the nasty shot, think I'll pass!!!  Hoping with my two weeks off that my counts will rejuvinate.  Thanks for the info,

    Off to take son to skate practice, making up for alot of practices that his dad had been taking him to when I had surgeries. 

    Carol

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Sunshine99
    Sunshine99 Member Posts: 1,680
    edited January 2008

    Ladies,

    I start chemo in two days, and I'm a nervous wreck - more so than before my mast.  I feel like crying - I know it will be fine, but I'm just anxious. 

    My house isn't clean enough yet, I still have papers to file, I don't know what food to have in the house, and on and on it goes.  This feels like it's all happening too fast.  I may end up taking an Ativan (which I have never taken in my life).  I know I'll survive this as so many of you have, but I don't like feeling this way.

    I'm not normally an anxious person...  Anyone got a spare hug for a "sissy" sister???

    Thanks so much!

    Sunshine

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Determined1
    Determined1 Member Posts: 806
    edited January 2008

    Sunshine--hate to break the news to you, but you're no sissy sister.  We have ALL felt the jitters you feel now.  The unknown is such a bitch, isn't it?  You just take a deep breath and put one foot in front of the other.  Go back through this thread, you'll find all kinds of tips on how to prepare.  Get the house to the point when you just put down your pencil and say, "it's done."  Whatever it is, it is.  You'll still feel okay for a couple of days right after tx till the se's kick in and you can tweak stuff then.

    Do me a favor and give me the details of your tx so I can include you on the Jewel roll call at the header of each page.  Look at other entries to see what we need/want. 

    If you have specific questions, please ask.  If you need to complain or whine, please do so.  If you want to celebrate, share with us.  We're all here for each other.  I just know you're gonna sparkle and shine with the rest of the Jewels!

    D1

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • SISKimberly
    SISKimberly Member Posts: 762
    edited January 2008

    Hey Jewels,

    So, I was out until about 3:30...I am pooped!!! But it was a fun day.



    Diana63-I totally understand your need to just not stress out and do what you can to make things work. If you had coverage before...with the same company...they should have no issues reinstating you. So, no Cobra between jobs...did you find out you had bc with the old insurance plan? If so, then they really shouldn't turn you down now just because you couldn't afford to pay for the COBRA costs.

    I'm keeping my fingers and toes crossed for you that something comes up smelling good soon.



    wvgirl- Oh yeah...go for the Mirilax. My dh told me to tell you that you need to look at the stages of grief...he was angry when he first heard my diagnosis. It took a few weeks to sink in for him...I noticed he was grumpy...but never yelled at me or anything...but I knew this wasn't just about me, so I wrote him a card explaining that I knew this didn't happen to me and that being on the sidelines must be very frustrating for him as he must feel so helpless. I told him that I understood he needed time to adjust, but that I was there to talk with him when he was ready...that we'd do this thing together. He said the card really helped him. Like I said...he needs to know you understand it isn't easy for him either, but that what he can do to help is...(whatever you need....and ask him what he needs,too). My dh wanted me to tell him what I needed 'cause he didn't want to hover.



    Kathy- so glad you're sounding so much better each time you post from home. I'm really liking the girls. I won't be able to do the exchange for 12 to 18 months after my rads is over. The ps stated my body and skin will continue to go through changes over time, and he wants that all cleared up so he gets the best possible result. I'm fine with that...just means I can wait until summer '09 to do it and not have to miss school. ;-)



    sista2-My dad and my twin tested negative for the BRCA1 and 2 gene, so it looks like I don't have to take the test now. Hooray!!!! I hope yours is negative, too.



    Carol- Are you considering a hysterectomy? I've been considering it and want to do it to make sure I cut down as much estrogen as possible. I've been reading about Tamox and don't like the side effects at all. The gals on the threads about Tamox often complain about the se's. I just read one today about a gal who's giving it up...the se's are just too much for her. She tried the other drugs as well and had bad se's with them. I'm looking at Evista if my doctor insists I have to take a preventitive med. It's given to patients to improve bones and has had a better effect on fighting invasive breast cancer than Tamox. The National Cancer Institute did a STAR study of over 19,000 women enrolled of Raloxifene(Evista) vs Tamoxifen in preventing Invasive Breast Cancer. 36% few uterine cancers (.0048% of the 4,712 on Evista - @ half the group had hysterectomies at the time of the study- compared to .007 of the 4,732 women on Tamox ) and 29% fewer blood clots than those taking Tamox. No risk of cateract development as with Tamox, either.



    Sorry about your hoot hurting...symptoms, but no flow...not a bad trade off...or course it isn't my hoot that's hurting.



    The wine was soooo good!!!! I know after tomorrow, I'll be sans my taste buds for another few weeks, so had to get that in while the taste buds were active. So speaking of happy taste buds...had anyone lost weight (6 pounds during chemo week and the week after), then gained it back when the taste buds came back because you were like hording good flavors? Yeah, that would be me. I'm so going to have to rethink that whole philosophy. I need to keep my weight down...lose a few actually as excess fat is an estrogen producer. I'm just going to have to say no to all the really good, but not so good for me, eating parties I've been having and pick up the get your butt movin' moto instead. I need to exercise way more than I do now that's for sure.



    D1- So envious of your butt massage!!!! I can't lay on my chest yet, so no massages for me until I can do that. I'm only 8 weeks out from surgery, and it may take 12 weeks to totally heal. I've got pretty good range of motion back...the left is tighter than the right, but my ps was very impressed. He said you don't need pt...what you're doing is working. Keep doing it...it just takes time. Way to go on getting the hips adjusted. My chiropractor had to do that for me when I went to him. It makes a difference. I haven't gone in a long time though. You had a big day today! Good for you...I so agree that on those good days get as much done as you can. I'm sure you read my message to Kathy and know when I can get the exchange done. I thought about not doing reconstruction, but thought...I don't think I'm quite ready for flat forever...and two boobs in a box. I had nightmares of them falling out during class. heehee. I did experience being totally flat when I first came home, and it wasn't so bad at all, but as I got pumped up...I liked it better. I'm glad you're happy with your hoot.



    Vettegal- Sorry you're not feeling 100% today...take care and just listen to your body...it knows what it needs.



    ARDeb-Good news on your new treatment #2 date and glad you are feeling better!!!!



    So,it's about 5:40, and I'm off to drink some water with EmergenC -Cranberry flavor- with my Miralax mixed in as I prepare for tomorrow. Also taking my second dose of Calcium with a handful of almonds.

    Haven't thought about dinner yet... I'll take my second dose of Decadron around 8pm along with my Valium to help me sleep, then off to LaLa Land for a good night's sleep before Super Girl grabs her martini glass and takes her baldacious self to Club Survival. Black Cat Chemotini's all around. My dh is taking pics, so I'll post one of my alter ego when I get it downloaded from the camera.



    See you in the morning, Jewels. Cheers.

    SIS Kimberly



    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Mizsissy
    Mizsissy Member Posts: 371
    edited January 2008

    You  Jewel girls are so positive...freaky as this may sound, in a couple of months you're gonna be congratulating each other on getting BC because you found each other!!!

    Just a quick tip on the constipation..Senekot is recommended but that can sometimes be a little harsh.  I substituted one stool softener + one senekot (instead of two) with very good results.

    Fatigue is part of the process...for those of you that can sleep, sleep as much as possible.  You've got the Chemo Excuse...sleep all you want.

    My secret weapon for getting over chemo fatigue:  on Day 5 sleep late, then around noon take a Darvocet (or whatever you have leftover from surgery) with a Diet Pepsi...works like a charm!!

    Good luck!!!

    Mizsissy 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • joteach
    joteach Member Posts: 116
    edited January 2008

    Hello Jewels!

    Sunshine99 - I'm in exactly the same boat. I feel extremely nervous, no make that terrified. I am having my first tx on January 30 as well. I have been reading alot of the chemo tips and I have a long long shopping list for tomorrow. My mother is in the hospital so I am more than stressed out. I feel fortunate though to have found this group of Jewels!

    Joan

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited January 2008

    Sunshine I am right there with you.  But we are no sissys. We are gonna put our big girl panties on and kick some BC butt. Tomorrow is Chemo 101 and Thursday is my big day.  Like everyone has said it is the unknown.  Once we get this first one behind us the others will be a little easier. My thing is trying to figure out when the SE will be the worst. I plan on working as much as possible and planned on Thursdays so I would have the weekend, but that may not work. 

    Sending prayers of peace to you

    Jackie

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • texrn
    texrn Member Posts: 99
    edited January 2008

    Just popping in to say Hi! I have to say, I so enjoy reading everyone's posts - I feel like you all express yourselves better than I do. I've been on other threads, but, in my opinion, this one has

    so much momentum & comradarie, I feel more at home here ( even if I'm just lurking most of the time ).

    I had my 2nd treatment on the 18th - once again, I had the full range of GI symptoms, and each symptom was worse this time. The se's started a few hours after I got home ( w/ diarrhea ), & lasted until a few days ago. However, even though last week was the worst ever, I feel like this week is going to be the best ever - I feel really good today!  I am hoping my bad se's after this last treatment are a fluke & not a trend. I'm not even going to have any expectations about tx #3 - I'm just going to go in prepared. I do not routinely receive the Neulasta shots the day after my treatments - so, instead of bone pain, I had very bad flu-like muscle aches & pains. We'll see what my blood counts are this Friday. 

    Anyway, I wish everyone a good ( se free! ) week.

    Therese

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • RN2teach
    RN2teach Member Posts: 312
    edited January 2008

    Hey Jewels,

    Busy day here. Good day at work, after school I had a checkup with my surgeon, then shopping and dinner with Mom. God willing, I'll have more of the same for the next few days and get lots of things accomplished before Friday and chemo round 2.

    Kathy- Welcome Home!! Glad your dh took such good care of the kids. What a blessing!

    CHJ- I'll echo what the others have said-- watch your temp. Hope you're feeling better tomorrow!

    Deb1023- I was hoping I'd have a partner in the chemo saloon Friday. Hope those counts stay up!

    CathyCa and KathyL- Thanks for the stellar advice you posted for interpreting research data. I had a couple of research classes while working on my master's. While it was never one of my favorite things to do, I am grateful for that background now. Especially since my oncologist loves to share research info when formulating a treatment plan. (I have the same oncologist as dh, so we have a nearly 2-year history together).

    D1- LOVED your DH story--thanks 4 the laugh!! I'll be careful not to turn my dh into a DH again! (At least unless he deserves it...) BTW, how are the back spasms? I couldn't remember who had them, which is why I mentioned them. Mine are better and I still think they are a se of Neulasta. I'll be talking to onco about that Thursday.

    Vettegal- stay on top of that constipation, girlfriend, and pamper yourself for the next few days.

    Sunshine- sending warm ((((HUGS))) your way. That first treatment is a toughy as you don't know how it is going to go. You will be in my thoughts and prayers this week.

    Hey Therese- glad you're still with us. Hope the days until your next tx are se-free! 

    Kimberly- You're next up to the plate. Bat those bc cells outta the park SIS! Be thinking of you tomorrow.

    Good night Gems,

    Paula

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Cathy-CA
    Cathy-CA Member Posts: 686
    edited January 2008

    D1 and anyone else having problems with Neulasta --- are you taking Claritin 24 hour with it?  My onc has me take a Claritin the day of the shot and for six days after.  I have only had the one shot last week, but did not have a bit of bone pain.  The theory is that people with bone pain have an allergy to Neulasta and the Claritin provides the histamines to combat the allergy.  It's the regular Claritin 24, not the Claritin-D.  Don't know if I'm just lucky and wouldn't have had the bone pain anyway or whether it really does work, but it's worth a try.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • golfer779
    golfer779 Member Posts: 1,378
    edited January 2008

    Kimberly, I definitely will entertain the idea of having a oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) to completely shut down the estrogen machine.  The onc told me that Tamox or equivalent will basically put you in menopause  but your ovaries will still be producing a little bit of estrogen.  My thought is if the estrogen is fuel to build cancer cells, I don't think I care to have it in my body.  I'll be inquiring more in the very near future as to when would be the appropriate time to have the procedure done.  I'd be curious to know what your onc suggest.

    Regarding weight, I lost about 8 pounds through diagnosis to surgery number one and two and then another 5 pounds during round one of chemo.  Seem to be eating plenty, but not really having a sweet tooth, and no alcohol has probably cut my caloric intake quite a bit.  Would love to stay steady at this weight.

    Have a real superwoman day tomorrow, Carol

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • KathyL
    KathyL Member Posts: 534
    edited January 2008

    OK, I totally am jealous of you all that have lost weight.  I'm not big, but my scale is slowly creeping up on me, especially after this hospital visit.  Right now I'm blaming it on excess fluid (my eyelids are puffy for some reason, but nowhere else) and poop.  I know I probably just need to get moving some more and exercise.  I had lost weight before when I was diagnosed, but now I'm just about 3 pounds over my usual weight-- I know, not a lot, but they preach so much about BC patients gaining weight I don't want that to happen. And I know I'm not moving like when I worked and walked around all day long.

    Sunshine, joteach, jackieb: all you chemo virgins... we're here for you girls!  It really will be OK.  As everyone else said, the fear of the unknown is the worst.  Round one will be a learning experience.  The best way to prepare is read over this thread and take notes.  Stock up foods you like to eat when you may not feel like eating (if you know what I mean): jello, yogurt, ginger ale, crackers, soups, etc.  Remember to drink A LOT!  Start this even the day before chemo.  Take all your meds!  And I agree with D1 about the house and paperwork: priorities change... do not stress over this stuff.  Evereyday will not be a bad day either.  Most of us here seemed to have our "bad day" about day 3-4 (treatment day is day one).  And regardless of what happens during your course, the best thing you could have done is found this thread!  You are never really whining here and the support is absolutely the best therapy for any SE you get :)  You CAN do this!!

    SIS Kimberly:  Go get 'em today with #2, kick some BCA!!!  FUBC!!

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories