Jan 2008--Ain't it Great?

chj127 · March 2008

Paula - that is SO very cool to have a wonderful event right in the middle of this "bad time" - what a pick-me-up!! Thanks for sharing, it gives me goose bumps (not to mention making me teary!)

CHJ

Anonymous · March 2008

Carol, I see the onco. every 3 weeks (was every 2 weeks while on AC) for about 1/2 hr. - 45 minutes. (It's supposed to be 15 minutes but we always run long.) I get bloodwork drawn the day before Tx bec. my medical plan requires that I have Quest do the bloodwork. I call the Infusion Center before going to Tx to make sure counts are ok to proceed. I guess every treatment center has a different way of doing things.

Paula, that is an amazing story. You must have been so moved. I would have turned into a puddle I think.

vettegal · March 2008

Good morning Jewels Cool

Looks like aunt flo wants to come visit.. started spotting on friday during chemo..so far not so bad! So far so good on the se front just a little stomach..no diarrhea so far (thank goodness) Laughing

I wasn't sure if it was Carol or not, when I mentioned i saw my mom in the chemo lounge she came and found me. She got bc 13 years ago was in stage 3b when she got it. She is in stage 4 now it has spread to her liver and bones about 2 years ago. She was going oral chemo and now the want her to go back to a IV chemo and she is not real happy. She is 78 and one of the reasons i started going for mammograms at 30 years old. She is a fighter..someone is watching over her for sure!

Hope all the se from fridays chemotini girls are holding off. I am just happy to be out of bed!! with no sharts!! Thanks D1

Its a snowy cold day here in the burg' looking outside saying ...gonna stay in my warm house with my dh and doggie today and not even think about going out.

Stay warm jewels and positive...hugs to all! xxooo

KathyL · March 2008

Well, I have a lot to catch up on. I'll be reading and then posting later today. Will also post the week's events soon. Stay tuned... we've had a busy weekend here (stop writing so I can catch up-- hahaha!).

KathyL · March 2008

So, yesty was a good day. Took dd to gymnastics in the AM while dh and ds grocery shopped. Next week dd is missing class b/c of another b-day party for a preschool classmate, so she got to pick any class to do for a make-up. She picked karate. Guess my ballerina/gymnast is checking out her alter ego. Should be interesting; the class is 3/17. She went to a friend's for a playdate in the afternoon, ds took his nap and dh and I did some major housecleaning. No more dust dinosaurs (we were past the dust bunny stage). The in-laws came for dinner as our freezer is bursting from all the meals the kids' school has given us. After dinner we all went to Friendly's for ice cream; the kids had gift certificates that were going to expire soon. I ordered a chocolate one hoping the "buds" would like it, but alas, they did not. I was just going to let it melt, but dh swapped with me and he had a peanut butter sundae with vanilla ice cream. Yum!; I am loving PB these days for some reason. He's such good man! We came home, bathed the kids, changed the clocks, and watched some Tivoed shows. Today dh is working for some OT pay, the kids are playing so nicely, and I'm getting laundry done (sorta, I'm mostly on here). Ahhhh! I have a busy week ahead. Tomorrow is dd's "Daddy Dance" where all the little ballerinas have learned a dance to teach to Daddy. They wear their favorite fancy dresses with their ballet slippers, and get to dance on a big stage at one of the local schools. It's the same thing each year, so this is her second time, but that also means they get better. We get her hair done up and dh gets her some flowers. She just loves it. And the girls are so cute-- all 3-5 year olds. We usually go to Applebee's for dinner afterwards (don't really like it, but the kids love it there; I eat salad). Tuesday I have 2 gf's visiting. Wednesday dd goes to the dentist; it'll be another girls' afternoon-- I'm loving these. Thursday I see my therapist and also my ps to try and figure out when I can finish my boob (next up: nipple!), Friday my friend has her exchange surgery. And that's just what I know about... whew! I feel like SIS Kimberly! But it should be nice to be busy for a change-- this is my good week afterall. So, my quick shout outs before I lose this post (gotta try Word like you guys have been doing...)

Vettegal: can't wait for the BB pic. I gotta get my dh to take some of me in my wigs to post... And oh, deja vu with the second reaction. Sorry to hear about it-- our bodies must be super-sensitive. I'll have to let you know what they do for me on my last round and if it works. Did they give you any idea for you?

WVGirl: LOL on the dishwasher!

D1: so tell me more about your nails' status these days. Mine have started to look kinda light purplish up by the nailbed-- almost like when you're cold, but it doesn't go away. And I have noticed some horizontal lines there, too (My onc said that part might happen-- it indicates each cycle of chemo during the nail's growth; so that doesn't worry me too much). But I have started having some tenderness to my nails now. Freaking me out a little as I also do not want them to fall off and they still have to endure one more round. nO lifting, just the color change and soreness.

Hope you had a good weekend with cg... watch that drive back!

LJ13: yay on #3's success! Sounds like you've got a nice doc there too

Kimberly: Hope your Jazz and Wine was nice. And I agree about the mind game with positive thinking. But I'm also starting to think-- what ISN'T a friggin' mindgame these days

Deb: Thanks for the words of wisdom with writing. You're so right. Vacation spots near me: Poconos (in PA: nice for hiking and outdoors stuff in the mts.). But I bet you'd also like it here in DE. Our beaches, particularly Rehoboth, are great for shopping (outlet stores are awesome there!), all kinds of little shops, the boardwalk, great dining. And not too far away from DE beaches is Bombay Hook-- a refuge/state park great for hiking, birdwatching, etc. Plus, I could meet you! Our house is only 1-2 hours away from it all.

Paula: Sounds like you had an awesome weekend. Congrats on all the awards. And the story about your student's tribute just sounds wonderful. What a moment to treasure.

OK, gotta get ds to lay down for a nap. I'll be back to post the week's list.

tinalee123 · March 2008

Good Sunday morning, Jewels! Hope you’re all well – did you remember to “spring ahead” (except for AZDonna, I think)?

Paula – I’ve got to tell you that just reading about the honor your students gave you, had me choked up! I can only imagine being there in person…what a truly special lady you are to these young men and women. It’s very inspiring on so many levels. Congratulations!

Deb – Yes, as Cathy-CA mentioned, it’s the regular Claritin, not the “D”. Mine is actually a non-drowsy version, the kind that dissolves on the tongue (Target version). Bought it by accident. I’m with Cathy, I’m going ‘with it’. Onco said it would help with the bone aches and pains, which I had quite a lot of yesterday. Today the aches and pains are better, but I’m staying on the Tylenol and Motrin wagon. I haven’t had a need for any of the nausea meds, although did take Ativan to sleep last night. Things are tasting yucky again, hoping that will ease off.

Therese – YAY!! We’re going to be welcoming reports of how reentering the land of the living goes – that light at the end of the tunnel is coming for us all!!

Julie – Hope the se’s are mild ones…so far, so good, eh?

Jenn – I’ll be interested in hearing about how pt goes for you. What a cool arrangement to have landed in. What would you say your ROM is? And, how many weeks has it been since surgery? I’m questioning if I have waited too long…surgery was Dec. 10th, ROM is ‘okay’, but not, of course, like it was. I just couldn’t force myself to start pt while doing AC, dealing with se’s, ps expansions, and venturing out into sub zero weather…waaa, waaa. I’d been doing simple exercises at home, but, certainly nothing official or regular. I still have numbness on the underside of my upper arm, although can feel the tingly sensations of nerves growing back – it’s improved greatly, obviously, since early Jan.

Carol – Thanks for the notes on the sleeve…I’ll check in with my breast center here.

Will check in again later, hope everyone is having a restful and relaxing Sunday.

Tina

wvgirl · March 2008

Today is a day to stay inside and rest. I have been working on laundry. It seems I am always washing by sheets. Having lots of night sweats. Still no Aunt Flo Laughing since Jan. Just seem a little restless today them darn steroids. At lest after tonight I will not have anymore. Onc said I should not have to take them with the A/C.

D1-Glad you have a save drive going to get collage girl. Hope you have a week.

Therese Congrads on last ty YEA !

Carol- The dh/DH (he's in between) didn't say much about his experiecne. I did make it a point to thank him for going with me. Glade your weather is getting better and you able to get outside and enjoy. I talked to my Aunt in Ohio (lives near Lake Erie) she said they have 20 inc of snow and 5 more excepted today. Some of it has come our way. We have about 6-8 ". The cold weather goodies are welcome.

KathyL- You will be very busy this week. Don't overdo it.

Vettegal- Can't wait to see your biker hat. Hugs and Prayers going out to your mom.

Paula- So glad to hear about your conference. The speech you shared about your student brought tears to my eyes. That is great they are going to be there for the Relay and the walk.

Hope everyone has a wounderful Sunday afternoon.

KathyL · March 2008

OK, I'm back. Hello to WVGirl and Tinalee who posted in the meantime.

First off... Happy 45th to Golfer779 (Carol)!! Had to check my notes, but today is the day! Sorry I didn't give you all a head's up sooner, just realized it myself as I've been collecting the dates. Lots of love, well wishes (with no SEs), and a long, happy life for you Carol!!

Monday: OPEN DAY-- Nothing going on for the Jewels! Rest and relax gems, and hope we're all diamonds, not sapphires for the day

Tuesday: #4 for SIS Kimberly and Kris60 (that's 3/4-way for both!). Dana will also be doing her second weekly round today I think(not sure about this, so let me know if it's the same day each week).

Wednesday: second IV day for round #3 for Carol. Round #3 for sheebas (Judy); halfway mark for her. Round #3 for joteach.

Thursday: #3 of 12 weekly T for LJ13. Round #3 (3/4-way) for Sunshine 99

Friday: #5 for RN2Teach and Deb102307 (first round of T for each)

Cathy-CA · March 2008

Paula -- what a wonderful tribute. We all know how special you are, but isn't it nice that your students shared it with the whole conference!

Vettegal -- I'm glad you have your mother for an example of a fighter. With all the advances in treatment, this disease has become something that a lot of people live with even though they may continue to need treatment. We can all sympathize with not wanting to start chemo, but given how far she has come, I can't imagine giving up now.

KathyL -- the Daddy Dance sounds too adorable for words. Having only boys, I'm always envious of all the little girl activities. Sorry the chocolate didn't taste good, but it was nice of dh to let you have his peanut butter one. Take it easy during your busy week.

TinaLee -- sounds like your are chipper! Hope that means you are having a SE-free weekend.

WVgirl -- Some men just don't like to talk, but dh may have gained something from the experience. Unless I really get on my hubby, he is happier pretending none of this is happening or that everything will return to normal in a few months. He's supportive if I want to complain, but would rather avoid it.

anna47 · March 2008

Hello,

I am visiting from the March 2008 thread. Glad to get so many tips and insights to chemo. Starting TC X4 on March 10. I do have a question? I notice you guys insert pictures. How do you do it? We would like to share some photos on our thread. Thanks and hope you all are well today.

wvgirl · March 2008

Laughing Happy Birthday Carol

Have a great day.

LilWarrior · March 2008

Hi Ladies,

I had a great weekend, I got to walk a lot and work out as well! The first two days were hard but after that it felt like normal. I think the more I workout and stay busy the better I feel. I also went to church yesterday and put in a list of prayers for each of you! Yesterday it was about how we want all the time from God but what have we done for him? We need to give and sacrifice something for him - so think about it. What is it that you know you can change and give it to God?

I am really going to start watching what I eat now. I bought tons of fruits and veggies, fish and chicken. No more red meat and once in a blue moon I will have chocolate. I want to be the best I can be and I really need to take care of myself better.

I hope you all had a blessed weekend. Remember today is a day of rest, Find Jesus, Find a Church and continue to spread the word of God and your love.

Muah! xoxo

Dana

RN2teach · March 2008

I'm back! Took a while to catch up with you chatty Gems.

Carol- HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Your trip to AZ sounds wonderful. Glad you're getting the le sleeve.

We post grades online here as well. Mine are currently 2 weeks behind d/t chemo and the conference. We are supposed to update them once weekly... You've already gotten all the advice you need about approaching the teacher. Glad to hear that ds is up from an F to a C in Spanish. I def. would be concerned if you don't see more assignments posted for him... you KNOW they've got to be doing them... where are they? Busy work-an assignment that doesn't get graded-is frowned upon in the education system today. Just stay positive and focus on what ds needs to be successful and how to accomplish that.

D1- thanks for sharing your sister's teaching story-what a SHERO!

Your rads guy is certainly preparing you for every eventuality. I prefer to know it all-the good, the bad, and the ugly-and then do my best to beat the odds on those se's. I think you are wise to be aggressive in the weeks ahead at getting a grip on the le and preparing your skin as much as you can for the coming trauma of rads. I'll be taking notes on your journey, since I will be there in a few months. And, ditto what Kathy said about the burns.

BTW, what about leg as an acronym for your le specialist? (leg = le guru)

le foreplay-how funny!

‘bout that book... I think we should do a Jewels book... "Jewels for our Journey" or something like that. Our own little "Chick Soup" type book for BC survivors. There is a lot of talent in the Jewels gene pool. Maybe each of us could do a chapter (or much more for the more prolific writers like Kimberly and you). I believe I could contribute a chapter to a Jewels book and I know others of us could do the same, whether funny, inspiring, encouraging, etc. Whatcha think?

Oh, and I like your curfew incentive. The car keys aren't such an issue here as my SIL who lives "round the bend" from us works at ds and dd's high school.

Hope you and college girl have a great week!

KathyL- I'll add my "sorry" that you were unable to make Wendi's memorial service. Glad you took the cautious route-don't want you back in the hosp.! We have been blessed with a well-stocked freezer, too, thanks to our friends and family.

I love the Daddy Dance... bet pics from that would be beautiful!

Sheshe- sound like your new doc is on top of your tx-glad he's taking note of your possible le. Also good to here that you're feeling better.

Dana- listen to Kathy: take care of yourself! LOL at the All U can eat buffet! I had an appetite increase after tx 1, but it didn't return after tx 2. (Taste buds kinds disappeared and took the appetite w/ them) One thing I have noticed is that I have to eat small freq. meals/ snacks because it eases the queasiness and discomfort of an empty stomach.

Kimberly- good info on the Tamoxifen-I'm not shocked... I haven't researched that since I'm tri-neg and won't be on ht.

NCLB... the bane of many a teacher. It affects me less than most as I'm a career-tech teacher (in my world we aren't perceived as "real" teachers). The NCLB counterpart for us is Perkins, which is threatened every year at budget time. I hate the whole teach to the test mentality that prevails w/ NCLB. I could go on and on....

CathyCA- my ds drives dh's '90 Ranger (works out well since dh can no longer drive). He did have access to our Stratus until he got a speeding ticket last year... going 83 mph! I also withhold the gas money if the grades aren't acceptable... we do what we have to do!

Vettegal- good to see your posts-means you're feeling better! I didn't know your mother was in treatment also. ((((Hugs))) to both of you.

I'm so glad you're getting so many thoughtful gifts lately. I know that is giving you a much needed boost!

LOL at vetteguy's "free hanging" vision... ‘fraid mine would be more like "free falling"

Deb1023- good to be done w/ the red devil, huh? Looks like we're starting Taxol together this Friday.

Hope dp had a nice memorial service for her mother.

Canaan Valley/ Seneca Rocks/ Spruce Knob is a beautiful hiking, birdwatching, skiing area in the Northeastern part of WV. Lots of interesting shops in the area.

WVgirl- LOL for the pens in the dishwasher! I've done a few goofy things like that lately

I'm not looking forward to the extra decadron b4 this treatment. (With AC the only steroid I got was thru the IV). I'm curious that your onco stopped the Neulasta since I took mine all thru AC...

Peg- ok, so you're ½ through w/ your chemo now. The light is farther away but it is still getting closer every day!

Tinalee- thanks for the input on Taxol... I'm taking notes!

LJ- what a great onco to drop by for a visit while you're in chemo!

Julie- thinking of you and praying that the se's from this round are very mild.

Jenn51- I'm thrilled that you have access to free PT!! Good for you!

Therese- congrats on being finished w/ chemo!

Time for a nap... gotta catch up w/ my beauty sleep.

Paula

SISKimberly · March 2008

Afternoon Jewels,
So, technically with the time change, I slept in until 9am this morning. We had a great time yesterday. Drove the mustang with the top down…yes, I wore sunscreen…and stopped at Lake Berryessa, which is not the way, to show our friends some property we own with a great view…but can’t build until they get their sewer treatment expanded, which is OK, we’ve got time. Then ate lunch in St. Helena and met my older sister and her man-friend (boyfriend sounds so highschool) in Calistoga around 3pm. We walked the cute little town tasting along the way in shops, restaurants, and even the hardware store that featured wineries. Had dinner in Napa around 7:30 and got home by 10:30. Long day, but so much fun!!!!

Therese- We must have posted at the same time yesterday morning. WHooHoo on the last infusion, but FUSE on the deep fog that set in afterwards. Hey, now, what is with calling yourself pathetic? When it comes to exercising as opposed to not, there is no down side. The positive is YOU DID ½ MILE!!!!! And every day, you’ll start with that, and it will get better each week until you’re running a marathon girl.

D1- OK, now, the fact you took yourself to the gym means you did a serious workout, and like Therese, celebrate that you did that!!!!! I’m thrilled when I take a walk and make yoga two days a week.

Julie- Yeah on the lack of se’s of any consequence at this time!!!! And hope you enjoyed the quiet time. Sometimes that is just what is needed.

ARDeb- OH, I know that feeling well. I use Prep H gel and suppositories to sooth things and that really helps. Thankfully, that part doesn’t last too long with each infusion. Every two weeks still? Oh well, we’ll both be singing Hallelujah at the end of April. My last one is the 22nd.

Way to turn around the depressive thoughts, Deb!!!! You’re so right about there only being NOW and how meditation on the positive each morning can shape your whole outlook. BRAVO!!!!

California is chalk full of places…mountains, lakes, rivers, and oceans. Depends on what time of year you travel of course. Yosemite is fabulous for spring flowers and hikes of varying degree. Lake Tahoe is wonderful for hiking as well and at night if you’re away from the city, great star gazing. Sorenson’s up Hwy 88 is close enough to get to South Lake Tahoe, but far enough away that at night you can get some great views of the night sky. If you flew into Sacramento and then rented a car, you would be only 2-5 hours in any direction from fabulous places.

Kathy and I are talking about working on a project together, and my dad’s significant other is a published travel writer and involved in all kinds of writing organizations, so I have no doubt we could get hooked up with publishers. But, you are so right about the just getting it out on paper factor.

Carol- Good feeling getting the yard looking all spiff isn’t it? When my dh does that, I feel great!!!! HaHaHa
I feel that way about getting the house spiffed up.

IEP- Individualized Educational Plan. My son has had one since 4th grade. It has really helped him in college in certain classes…more time for tests, being able to go to the Learning Center for quiet during tests, note taking assistance, books on CD that his computer can read to him if needed. Tutoring can be a modification or tool in an IEP.

I’m with you on the cold hands. My feet too. I take baths to warm up, too. My poor dh. The heater is on at 72, which isn’t usual for me, but I’m cold a lot…although those chemo flashes do heat things up once in awhile.

Yeah, I’m thinking an egg hunt with 20 some-things would be a kick!!!

You are so welcome for the b-day card. I have a nice bottle of wine I’m waiting to send you when you give the all clear signal. For now, it will remain in our tempt controlled cellar.

CathyCa- Your travels sound like so much fun and what a way to bond with your grandmother and mom not to mention the bonding time with grand-dad and your boys.

Paula- Oh I am sitting here bawling reading your post. What a wonderful tribute to experience, and CONGRATS to your kids for doing so well in the competition!!!!

Vettegal- Yeah on the mild se’s. Both Carol and I were unable to access the files on your mom. Thanks for clarifying. I’m so sorry she had a recurrence and that the oral chemo isn’t doing the trick. Hopefully the IV chemo will be the answer.

Kathy- OMG, you are just going like the wind, but gotta take advantage of the good days, right? The Daddy Dance sounds so cute!!!! I want pics!!!!

I agree that these days it isn’t all a FRIGGEN mind game as much as an energy/body willing game.

Tinalee- I had my surgery Dec 6th, and my ROM isn’t too horrid. Not 100% as in I can’t golf yet, but I can do a lot. I haven’t done pt at all, just the exercises my surgeon gave me and now yoga.

Anna- Hi, glad our thread has been helpful to you. Upload pics to Photobucket (you’ll open an account. It’s free), then copy the Direct Link option, switch to a new window and paste picture by clicking on the green tree. You may want to fix the pics dimensions before clicking save or whatever the button is to post so it isn’t too big. You can also do that on your computer before uploading. Good luck to you.

Dana- Good for you finding what works for you and for your adding us to your church prayer list…all those prayers add up to serious positive energy out in the universe. And, about chocolate…organic dark chocolate, which is too rich to eat more than a small square at a time, is loaded with good antioxidants, so just swear off of the over processed chocolate out there. Can’t get rid of everything! I’m with you on less red meat and pork, and more about fresh fish and organic chicken, fruits, and veggies.

OK, I’m all caught up. Have a fabulous Sunday!!!!

SIS Kimberly

deb102307 · March 2008

Hey Paula, I like the idea about the book. Sorry to say that most of what I write is kinda dark. That's how I get it out. But if you are looking for all kinds of stories, I am sure I would be interested.

I will be right there with you Friday for our first new adventure with the new drug (T). I'm a little apprehensive but thanks to Tina, a little less so.(Ativan is helping too)

Thanks Kimberly for the positive thoughts. You truly are a "SIS" in a lot of concepts of the word.

Tina - you have taken so much of my anxiety away about the Taxol. I will be reading every word you write this week. Thanks so much.

And to everyone who is giving me recommendations on where to travel, thanks. I am going to start travelling whenever I can when this is over. Will start with short trips in my state and then venture onward. The only thing is I have no desire to travel outside of the good ole USA.

Time to eat a little something and soak in the tub. Check in tomorrow. ((((HUGS)))

Cathy-CA · March 2008

Dana -- glad to hear you are doing so well. I completely agree that working out and staying busy go a very long ways in controlling SEs. Plus, with our current weather, being out the sunshine is such a mood lifter. My husband and I went and sat at the beach of our community lake for awhile this afternoon to soak up some rays.

Kimberly -- I'm a UCD alum and your mention of Lake Berryessa sure brought back some memories. Sounds like you had a wonderful time.

Deb -- another travel suggestion is ski resorts. During the off season they are very affordable and offer the kinds of activities you mentioned. The same place in Park City that runs hundreds of dollars per night during the winter can be found for under $100 a night during the summer. Mammoth Lakes in California is the same way, but it's a lot harder to get to. While I love international travel, there are still plenty of places in the U.S. I haven't seen and we have several road trips planned for this year.

joteach · March 2008

Good evening Jewels,

I have been lurking for a while now. Sorry not to have posted. I have been busy working, lots of IEP's and meetings.(special ed teacher). I have been doing well these past 2 weeks with minimal se's- but do have the fatigue.

Carol - thanks for asking about me. Happy Birthday!

Kathy L - I have treatment #3 on Wednesday, March 12. My last treatment (#4) will be April 2. I can't wait for this to be over!!!!!

Vettegal - I have the same hat! I got it from the American Cancer Society at the Look Good, Feel Better class.

Dana- I'm impressed. Walking 2 miles!

Kimberly - Sounds like a wonderful day in California. That's where I'm thinking of going this summer. My uncle lives in Huntington Beach but I'd love to visit more north this summer.

D1 - Congrats on finishing chemo! Sorry about your le. I will be following closely when you start your rads journey. I'll be there soon too.

Well, that's it for now. I have more reading of posts to "catchup" with everyone!

Hugs to all,

Joan

golfer779 · March 2008

Hi Gems,

Well I'm in my favorite evening position, yep the recliner, and once again the dh and (ds tonight) are fixing dinner. My ds is being so kind to make a cake tonight, I had my eyes in the back of my head kinda checking out how the progress was going, noticed the bottle of olive oil was on the counter, in the nic of time I politely suggested he may want to use vegi oil instead!!! Its smelling like cake in the house, gotta love that.

Hit 9 holes of golf this morning, (told the dh that if my "pooper hole" didn't get going) I was staying home. Regrouped and decided that maybe the walk would be good for the system. Now I'm hoping that German Chocolate cake will get something going!!!

Got some nice b-day wishes from my dad (who winter's in Florida), bro and some great friends throughout the day. Even went to the mall to pick out a new pair of white gold hoops, found a pair marked $199.00, saw a sale sign, asked the clerk if they we're included, she said yep. She rang them up and said $60 and some change. I couldn't believe it, didn't ask questions, and left a happy camper!

Cathy, wow what a worldwide traveler you are. I love the fact that it has been with your grandma and now with your mom. Sounds like a win/win for all involved. My dh and I have been in a rut, although one we both seem to like, AZ seems to have called our name for the last 10 years. We usually go for atleast 2 weeks, bring the kids down for one of those weeks during spring break. This year the kids are losing out, we actually had not planned on going at all until just a month or so ago and we're just staying one week. Looking forward to going somewhere a little more special after all of this adventure is said and done in the Fall.

Thanks for the info on a IEP, that is the first I've heard of that type of program. My ds seems to rally his grades when he has needed to. I'm hoping he can manage a cumulative 3.0 for insurance purposes. He's currently at a 2.8.

Boy, I may be mistaken but I don't believe that I've seen others that have tolerated the N-Nasty shot as well as you have. I'm still hoping for a rebound on my WBC this week.

Dana, sounds like you handled your first txt like the true warrior you are. Great news!!!

Paula, you know you have a great feel good story when I had to read it to the dh. I had my own visual of them honoring you as I read your post. Kudos to you our SHERO as well, and to your students for their touching tribute. Yeah for your ds and his gold medal too.

LJ, thanks for clarifying on your onc visits. I was hoping that you had chances to see him on a regular basis.

Vettegal, I'd say you have quite an inspiration with your Mom being the fighter she has been. So would she be the FUBC T-shirt type? I'm still looking to give away my size large!

I'm with you and the Auntie Flo front, had my period about 10 days ago, and yeah, lets start the 'ol spotting thing this weekend. I'm still looking forward to chemopause, or atleast not being surprised.

Sounds like you had another good weekend to lay low, staying indoors keeping warm. Lets hear it for no "sharts"!!!

Kathy, boy talk about a busy schedule. Love hearing the stories and activities your kids are involved with. Brings back alot of great memories. Would love to see some more pics!!!

Gotta love a stocked freezer, we too had quite a few soups and casseroles to munch on. As my dh said "your favorite"!!! I'm unfortunately much more of a meat, green salad, baker kinda gal. By the way that tonights din, filets, caesar salad, bakers and garlic bread. Wish my tummy wasn't feeling so darn bloated!

wvgirl, yuck still snowing? I'm glad the cold weather gear is getting a little use before you get some spring warmth. Hang in there, we'll try our best to send some your way from the west.

Kimberly, climate controlled wine cellar???? Gotta love that!!! At this point Gallo out of the gallon jug sounds good ... again, enjoyed being able to yak it up!

Joan, glad you popped in and that your doing well. The great thing is you can lurk away and still get the info/support of the Jewels. Interesting that your involved with IEP as well. I've just learned this week what IEP is.

The dinner bell is ringing ... so again, thanks for the b-day wishes. Looks like tomorrow is a day off for all txts. Lets take advantage and continue to move forth in our positive fashion.

Carol

RN2teach · March 2008

Good morning, Gems,

How nice--the Jewels have Monday off from the chemo suite. (thanks again, Kathy, for keeping us up-to-date on everyone's schedule. You are the "bomb.com" as my students would say!)

Looks like it will get to 50 in southern WV today. I'll be walking outside at lunchtime--thankful this is my "good" week.

Have a wonderful day, JJs. Paula

KathyL · March 2008

Dana: I agree about food. I am trying to watch what I eat also. More lean meats and veggies. I'm pretty picky with fish, but I love salmon, and we just got some tuna steaks, too. I was always a decent eater, but there's always room to improve-so I'm just thinking about what I eat more. I also want to exercise more (I just need to make the time with 2 kids around!), especially once the weather here gets nice and I can get outside more.

SIS Kimberly: Your weekend sounds like it was nice. I just can't wait for the warmer weather to hit here so I can get outside! BTW, I'm using Word this time to see how it goes...

Joteach: glad you checked in. I put your date on the weekly post of events, and got your last date down after that. If you want, I'm also collecting birthdays-pass yours on to me.

Carol: Happy b-day to you-you got to golf, got cake, a great deal on earrings... OK, Aunt Flo coulda stayed away, but otherwise sounds like you had a great day!

I've got the camera charging to get some pics tonight at the Daddy Dance. I'll probably have my blonde wig on, too, so I'll make sure dh gets one of me. Hope everyone enjoys this "day off". I'm just hanging until the big event tonight I think. Does anyone else look in the mirror and not recognize the face??? I look older and tired, and I KNOW I"ve been sleeping well. This chemo's taking a toll on me I think L Or maybe I just need some hair...

Have a great day Jewels!

P.S. Kimberly-I love Word!

KathyL · March 2008

This was on another thread, but I loved it so much I had to share it here.

There is a field, with two horses in it. From a distance, each horse looks like any other horse. But if you stop your car, or are walking by, you will notice something quite amazing. Looking into the eyes of one horse will disclose that he is blind. His owner has chosen not to have him put down, but has made a good home for him.

This alone is amazing. If you stand nearby and listen, you will hear the sound of a bell. Looking around for the source of the sound, you will see that it comes from the smaller horse in the field. Attached to the horse's halter is a small bell. It lets the blind friend know where the other horse is, so he can follow.

As you stand and watch these two horses, you'll see that the horse with the bell is always checking on the blind horse, and that the blind horse will listen for the bell and then slowly walk to where the other horse is, trusting that he will not be led astray.

When the horse with the bell returns to the shelter of the barn each evening, it stops occasionally and looks back, making sure that the blind friend isn't too far behind to hear the bell.

Like the owners of these two horses, God does not throw us away just because we are not perfect or because we have problems or challenges.

He watches over us and even brings others into our lives to help us when we are in need. Sometimes we are the blind horse being guided by the little ringing bell of those who God places in our lives.

Other times we are the guide horse, helping others to find their way....Good friends are like that... you may not always see them, but you know they are always there.

Please listen for my bell, and I'll listen for yours.

And remember... everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

Love generously, Care deeply, Speak kindly....Leave the rest to God.

SISKimberly · March 2008

Good Morning Jewels,

Sunday was kind of a putter day. I was in my jimmies until like noon…it was great. Doing some grocery shopping was as adventurous as I got.

CarolCa- Go Aggies!!!! Your afternoon on the beach with your dh sounds relaxing.

Joan- Oh man, IEP’s can be so time consuming…all that paperwork and then the meeting itself which is usually not during school hours in our district, but before or after school. I’m glad you’ve had a good past couple of weeks.
Hey we have almost the same next two treatments. I have the 11th of March and the 1st of April, but then I’ve got one more after that on April 22nd. I hear you on the can’t wait for this to be over thought. If you get up towards Sacramento this summer, look me up.

Carol- So glad your mom eyes were scoping out the cake baking scene… olive oil although good for you, might not be so yummy in a German Chocolate Cake. I so hope that your tummy cooperated and allowed you to enjoy your b-day meal.

Gallo????? Oh, no, no, no!!!! When you get to drink wine again…you’re going to need something really good to celebrate with…and not just a celebration that you can drink wine again, but that you’ve made it through chemo!!!!!

Did I read that correctly? You had a period 10 days ago and you’re spotting as of this weekend? That’s just no fair.

What a great idea…Vettegal’s mom can be an honorary Jewel!!!!

Paula- It’s downright balmy in WV eh? Enjoy that sunshine and bask in the afterglow of your wonderful weekend. I hope the school announcements let the whole school know how wonderfully your kids did…do you guys do that at your school?

I forgot to mention last time about the whole funding thing. I hate that programs like yours are the first to be considered for cutting. Don’t these people know that we need career training and that not every student is going to get a four year college degree? Don’t they know that the arts give kids a chance to develop the right side of their brains and provides kids who are not as academically oriented an outlet that brings them and keeps them in school?

Kathy- I am so glad that Word worked for you. Isn’t it great? I can’t wait to see the pics of tonight. Enjoy your quiet time today. I’ll be seeing the oncologist and taking a walk with my teacher friend who was dx with bc a day after I was.

I read the story of the horses before…it is a beautiful reminder that we are two sides of the same coin…sometimes in need of help from others and other times able to meet the needs of others. That’s what we Jewels are for each other...bells ringing in the fog and orienting us to work our way towards the light.

Take care of yourselves Jewels…since no one is at the lounge today, I’ll just wish all of our Jewels who had tx last week a wish for a good sef (side effects free) day.

SIS Kimberly

JulieK_11_30_07 · March 2008

Hi Jewels - Just a quick post while I'm feeling up to it. I've been realllly tired, but so far the nausea/vomiting have stayed away. I go tomorrow and Wednesday for more anti-emetics and fluids. Let's hope it works this time!

Just thinking of everyone - hope you're having good days! Carol -- happy belated b-day!! Hope it was a great one!!!

I'll check back in later! Love and hugs to all!

Julie

Determined1 · March 2008

So, Happy Belated to our friend, Carol!!!!!!! I thought about you all day and even sang out loud to you. Hope you heard me!! (Or, maybe not...) How's the day after birthday girl holding up? Did the german choc cake tickle your tastebuds (thank goodness you caught the oil--oy!!!!)? I hope you got all the fine things you wanted and certainly deserve.

Hey Deb. Glad to hear you're bouncing back. It seems to me that the last tx was hard on you. I'm thinking it may be because there was so much going on at home. I wish much easier times for you ahead. Oh, and I have to jump on to the vaca planning! We did a long driving trip one year and saw Zion/Bryce/Arches (and some others, but if you do those and shorten it up, you'll have time for more hiking/animal watching). Absolutely breathtaking. I also particularly enjoyed Alaska (took a boat trip--not what you're thinking, we were on a boat that held 35 passengers and got off to kayak and hike every day). We also saw Mt. McKinley and float planed in to an inn where we did more hiking on the tundra (very cool)--this place only had outhouses, which my dh didn't mention till our plane was touching down on their lake! Last recommendation is to visit Charleston, SC--good eats, walking around and shopping, but not much nature stuff!

Birfday girl--so you're having a hard time keeping your hands warm? Neuropathy, maybe? Do you notice the le hand is colder? (I do.) The issue has come and gone for me on my good side, so I'm guessing it's neuropathy. I will say my le side is still cold/numb sometimes.

Paula--That was GREAT news from your conference! I'm still teary from reading about your tribute. And we thought teenagers were self-absorbed cretins... You give us hope that some bright lights are shining out there. I loved the acronym for my le guru, altho I may use legu so she won't be confused with my leg!

I can't believe A. Flo is still visiting you, Vettegal! (The Force must be strong with this one, Luke...)

KathyL--Nails. Yes, my fingernails (not my thumbs, tho) are all purple in the middle of each nail for about a third of the nail. I go through periods when it feels like it does when you press on a bruise, but you don't have to touch my nails to elicit that hurt--they just feel that way on their own. My toenails were having the same feelings, but they've been painted the whole time, so I didn't know if they were purple, too. Well, I went in for a mani/pedi today (I know, I shouldn't but my tech is very good to me and cleans everything with rubbing alcohol several times throughout, so I'm going to keep up that vice), and when she removed the toenail polish, I was relieved to see that my toenails look the same as always. Even though they hurt. I wonder if the polish had something to do with that??? I am using the tea tree oil on my fingernails every night before bed (I don't know if it does anything other than stink). When I went in for my last infusion, I asked my chemo nurse about my nails and she said that since mine were not getting thick, or curling, she thought I would stand a good chance to keep mine. She did confirm what you heard about the purple lines for each tx--likening it to the rings in a tree. Apparently, if we don't lose our nails, they will eventually grow out and be okay. Mine started turning color/hurting about a week after tx3.

Oh, have a grand time at the dance tonight. What precious memories!!! Enjoy.

LWDana--you sound good. And you're eating better, that's a good thing. Do you go in for tx2 this week?

Ah, SIS Kimberly, what a divine-sounding Sunday! Would you please start sending that sunshine to the east??? Hey, good luck tomorrow, our caped crusader!

Julie--I think tired is much better than throwing up. Give yourself some space and just zone out when you feel like it. The tired thing is overwhelming to me this time and I'm trying really hard to set aside about 2 hours in the early afternoon to sit and veg. Not my MO. But we have to be good to ourselves. I'll think of you in veg-land at about 2p, if you'll think of me!

Here's a new one. The ear pierce hole on my bad side is suddenly developing issues with some of my earrings. The hole is crusty and red. I've been applying rubbing alcohol and have switched over to some 18K earrings for the time-being. I have never had problems with earrings before--I've even been able to wear that cheap crap they sell at Claire's without worry. This is all new to me. Anyone else with this?

Oh and yeah, I obviously got my nails done with college girl today. What a treat she is!

So tomorrow--SIS Kimberly and Kris60 are donning their capes and flying in for a fix!!! Go show cancer who's boss, my SHEROS!!!!!!!!!

D1

Cathy-CA · March 2008

Carol -- There is a travel organization for people who have been to 100 countries and my goal is to make that in my life. I'm about half way there, although they make it a bit easier since they count things that technically aren't countries. For example, Northern Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales count for four instead of just being the U.K. I have been a road warrior at different times in my career and spent time on international projects which helps bring up the count. I don't want to leave the impression that I always leave my dh behind. We do a lot of traveling together, as well.

Hope everyone has a relaxing SE-free evening.

tinalee123 · March 2008

Hi Jewels,

Carol – First off, want to send you wishes for a very (although belated) HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! Hope your day yesterday was filled with everything wonderful…sounds like it was – golf, family and a nice cake! Every time I send a shout out to you, I’m reminded of a trip I took, alone, several years ago now. I flew into Portland, OR for work, after I was finished, I drove down to Eugene, then over to Crater Lake N.P. (a great vacation destination btw), then back to the coast, up the 101 all the way to WA, around the peninsula, hung out in Bremerton, took the ferry over to Whidbey Island and then up to Anacortes and Bellingham! Whew! It was fabulous, soul-searching and reflective. What a cool place! Thanks for being the trigger for those dynamite memories!

To my Taxol sis’ (Deb and Paula, and anyone else who’s with us) – Boy, did I get my a** kicked yesterday! I can’t decide if the he!! I went through was due to going overboard with errands on Sat., or trying to evade the nausea thing by not taking any of the drugs…I just don’t know! But, I felt like I had an alien in my gut. I liken it to severe menstrual pains, more hip/belly area pain than nausea…so, it didn’t occur to me until last night to get back on my regiment that I had when I was on AC. Thankfully, I slept well last night and am better today, but, have been taking my rx timely. I didn’t take the rx’s initially, due my onco advising me I “may not need them”. I say, take ‘em if ya’ gottem’. I hope this is an isolated incident and the two of you won’t experience it. Just have your meds handy! I’ve been taking Tylenol every 4 hours, then, Motrin every four hours. Seems to help with those body aches. Taste buds are still dead to the world…

LJ13 – any ideas??

Kimberly – Thanks for the note about pt. I’ll continue with the home exercises, too. I laughed about your comments about staying warm. I, too, have had the furnace going like crazy and have been taking hot baths…ds #2 walks around in shorts, go figure.

Joan – Glad to hear about minimal se’s, don’t work too hard!

Good luck tomorrow, Kimberly and Kris – thoughts are with you!! Kick a$$!!

D1 – Sorry to hear about your nails! It’s cool that you and cg can do things like that – I always wanted a daughter! I hope your nails begin improving soon and that the tonies (what we used to call ‘em when we were little) escape unscathed.

Julie – Girl, I’m knocking on wood for you right now!! Here’s hoping you’ve got this nausea/vomiting thing under control!!

Kathy – Love the last two sentences of that story. It’s a great reminder – and helps us all be a little more compassionate when we realize that everyone is going through some level of strife or struggle. This is good for me…I have a particularly nasty neighbor. Thanks for that.

I'll check up on everyone later.

Tina

Jenn51 · March 2008

Good Evening Jewels,

I'm going to start by sharing some scaring news. I had another MUGA last week. The tech asked me if I had ‘anything' on my left side. He named off breast implants, scar tissue & a few other things. No to all. Then he asked if I still had the lower lobe of my left lung. YES! I asked what was going on & he said he saw a shadow between my pancreas & my left ventricle. He pulled up my old MUGA & said it was there before but not as defined. OK what is it? He tried to make light of it, but of course that didn't work. Now I'm stuck until tomorrow or Wed to get the report from the onc. I haven't told anyone but dh & he's scared too. It's impossible to find anything on the web about a shadow on a MUGA scan. Believe me I tried. I guess since I'm afraid to tell my kids I had to tell someone. Let me know if any of you have heard of anything like this & I'll let you know as soon as I talk to the onc.

Now to the fun stuff!

Dana, I am also eating like I'm at a buffet. Even when I'm a little nauseous I feel I need something to eat. Usually then it is salty I want. But the other days I seem to switch back & forth between sweet & salt. Glad to have company in this area.

Carol, glad ds teacher did some refining to his grade. I would feel sorry for him is he got the low grade but didn't deserve. I took away driving to school privileges from one of my boys his senior year. At least until the grades came back up. Never saw him study so hard & ask to have teachers give him a mid-term grade as he did to get his keys back. Oh the joy of having something really important to hold over their heads. Happy Belated Birthday! Sorry I missed the date. I am sooooo glad you caught the olive oil in time. I love oo, but not in my sweets. I get shivers just thinking about it.

I go this Wed. For my 1^st real pt session. Last week was more of an eval. I have been doing the exer. She showed me but haven't noticed much of a diff yet.

KathyL, I admire the energy you have. What a Friday! Sounds like fun. You know we all talk about the days our kids leave home & looking forward to it etc. But you will miss them. I pass a mom in the grocery with a little one in the basket & remember the days. I always tried to make the store a fun trip for them & let them choose some of the food. Shopping is boring now. And Easter, Christmas, birthdays just aren't as much fun when your planning for adults. The cute little things you bought for baskets don't cut it for 30-year olds.

In case you missed it my birthday is Jan. 28^th. And as I've been watching, I think I may be the oldest Jewel in this crown at 57. Anyone older is more than welcome to shout out. Thank you so much for the horse story. It's so true. I can look back to a time when some of my friends leaned on me & now it is my turn to lean of them. And a true story, my parents had 2 dachshunds, the older one went blind. The younger one, Princess, would lead Gypsy through the house by backing up so her rear touched Gypsy's nose. Princess would start for the food, or the door, or bed & stop after a few steps until Gypsy caught up. It was priceless to watch them.

Vettegal, I think the only person offended by my shirt is my mom and she's a grouchy old prude anyway. Even my onc got a laugh out of it. He said he usually tried not to use language like that around his patients but this case was worth the exception. I am so sorry you had another reaction. At least they were ready to help right away, but that has to be unnerving. Hang in there you are going to beat this nasty thing. I'm sorry to hear your mom is still fighting the battle. That's not something a mother & daughter want to do together. But you also must feel an inspiration seeing how long she has been a survivor.

D1, I agree that the fatigue is accumulative. I thought I was ok to drive last Sun. I was stopped at a stop light (I thought) when dh asked why I was stopped. There wasn't a stop light, not even a stop sign for my street. I know the people around me thought I was nuts. I drove much more carefully after that. Remember dh can't drive because he's legally blind & he could see there wasn't a light.

Wvgal, I love the pens in the dw story. Now I don't feel so bad putting the mail in the oven & an individual cup of applesauce in my purse. Can you imagine if something had punctured the foil top in the bottom of my purse?

Cathy, Well, that makes sense. That trip sounds fantastic! It's great too that you & your mom can enjoy things like that together. I wasn't a history fan in school & did what I needed to get by. I really missed that knowledge when I went to Germany a few years ago. I came back & read a lot but it should have been read beforehand. I find I enjoy learning so much more now, & in the past several years, than I did in school. It's a shame.

Tinalee, I don't know how to judge my ROM but I can't hold my arm up to put on deoderant. I have to rest it on my head. And in that same area it a bi#ch to get eye drops in. I still have swelling on my side right under my arm & numbness. The PT was pleased with my ROM but said there was some work to do. My surgery was 12/20 & they removed 30+ ln which everyone seems to think is a lot. I'll let you know what they say.

Paula, I think a book would be a great idea. I think I could come up with a story or 2. One anyway about how my pets have reacted to me. I know they know.

Sweet dreams & mild se to all

golfer779 · March 2008

Hello Jewels,

Okay, I know your all looking forward to Kathy's dd/dh dance pics, but my dh took this one, thought it was worthy of the cake baker and his step sis with some old gal in the middle!

I had a great b-day evening. My son actually took the time to make me a card, (this would not be a top priority these days for this kid), but wow, did he bring tears to my eyes with such thoughtful words. There is a heart in that hormone raged body of his!!! Oh, and the dh said he was going to the grocery store yesterday afternoon, he actually went back to the mall to score on the good jewelry sale. I ended up with 3 more pairs of earrings and a card that also brought more tears. Boy, its the weepiest I've been since probably right after the mast surgery. Must be my hormones getting me even more out of whack then usual.

Anyway, today is a new day and unfortunately I'm feeling kinda dumpy (so to speak). The ol' pooper thing as some so affectionately call it, is a definite nuisance for me. I left work early, did some grocery shopping, came home and took a hot bath, and put on my "Breast Cancer Sucks" sweatshirt. Okay, this would not be sending myself any positive vibes (which Kimberly would not like), but it is cozy, and I think I'll be regrouped by the time the dh comes home.

Kathy, thanks for sharing the post. Okay, so that got the weeper almost going over the edge too. There's got to be something in the air!

Looking so forward to seeing some pics from tonight.

Kimberly, now I was just kidding about the Gallo, my motto come June will definitely be quality not quantity!

How in the heck does your mind work to come up with the bells ringing in the fog analogy and state it so darn great!?

I am about 130 pages into Wendi's book, Kathy hit it on the head, its quite the story that is all too relatable. It actually got me thinking of jotting my saga down in my own corny words. I have kept a calendar since diagnosis day so I could recall everything pretty clearly. I also have copies of all of my e-mails I have sent to update friends and family. I, if nobody else, would probably enjoy reading it, hopefully when I'm "really" old!

And yep, between the pooper and the spotting , I'm a mess right now. No wonder I was feeling dumpy!!! Hope by Weds I'm back to normal (whatever that is).

D1, sounds like your having some fun with the dd. I'm glad that your done with your chemo part of this adventure so your able to have some quality time together without you feeling sh*tty!

On the hand thing, yep, the right one (bad side), is definitely having a worse time with the cold. It will be white where my left will look like it has some blood in it. Whoda thought that all these other issues would result from "c" in the boob!

Julie, I will send as much no nausea vibes your way as I can. So glad your doing so much better than your last go around.

Paula, yeah maybe spring weather will stay around a while for you in WV. Hope you we're able to get outdoors at lunch, its gotta help the mental/physical game to get some warmth on your bones. Kinda sad to say warmth and 50 degrees, but with what you all have been blasted with in the east 50 is pretty darn good.

Lastly, my mind decided Sunday morning at about 3:00am to lay in bed and just wonder how you all we're intitially diagnosed. Was it a BSE, mamo, u/s, or what. I find that its one of the first questions asked of me from friends/family, co-workers, etc. I realize you may not want to go backwards in this whole chat, but since most of us started posting well after being diagnosed, having surgeries etc., it might be interesting to hear your stories.

For what its worth, had my annual mamo Jan 2007, (started at 40 with family history), no problems reported. During the summer months I noticed when I raised my arm to dry my hair that my right hoot had kinda a puckering/pulling look to it. Would feel it, felt no lump, maybe just a "thickening" as I now have learned to refer to it. Made my appt for the yearly gyn visit for Aug. The doc office had to cancel and reschedule, ended up having it in Oct 22, (she's a popular doc). She did a be at that appt and said, how long have you had this "thickening" of your breast. The next day was a another mamo, u/s and biopsy ... and the rest is history. The no lump thing is due to my cancer being lobular vice ductal. Yeah for me ... harder to detect on mamos and by bse.

On that note, what have your oncs said about future exams. Do they recommend mri over mamos, and when? I asked my doc and he said to stay on schedule with my normal mamo timeframe. With my track record, I'll be demanding a mri.

Anyway, if you would like to share it may be educational to us all.

Off to my recliner, typed this one from the desk!!!

Carol

RN2teach · March 2008

Nice day for a walk here today for a change. It was 20s and SNOWING on Saturday... now 50s and sunny... fickle weather reigns this time of year!

My students were a bit rowdy today coming in after their big weekend. They did get lots of attention w/ announcements, etc. There's a tv mounted in the entry of our school that ran a slideshow of conference pics all day. I treated them to pizza--which kept their little mouths busy long enuf for me to teach a little!

We'll be going to Dallas for the national conference in mid June. I am going to have to do some creative scheduling and a lot of coaxing to get thru my chemo and rads b4 June 16th. wonder if I can have 6 days of rads a week instead of 5...

I have the blasted cold back, complete w/ that pesky cough... sigh...

Kimberly and Kris- be thinking of you tomorrow as you go another round against BC.

D1- legu: I like it!

Julie- hoping and praying that you make it thru this round healthy and strong!

Kathy- thanks for sharing the story. I've seen it b4 and loved it! Can't wait to see pics from the daddy dance.

Tinalee- Wow-- hope you feel better soon. My onco gave me an rx for a narc and told me to make sure to fill it b4 my tx on Friday!

Jenn- you're in my prayers. Try to stay positive while you're waiting (I HATE the waiting game with this stuff!!!)

Carol- great Bday pic! Your ds is a handsome boy and he knows how to be good to his mama. He'll make a good dh someday!

Here's my boob story: I found my lump w/ BSE. I was 4 months overdue for my annual mammo (worked in the hosp all summer and kept putting it off). Went the next day for mammo and US. When I saw all the pretty little glittery spots (microcalcifications) I knew I was in deep doodoo. Had my biopsy 2 weeks later, lumpectomy a week after that (day after Christmas). Saw my onco Jan. 10 and planned my treatment, found the Jewels on the 12th, and you all know the rest!

Okay, I'm off to dig out the whiskey. This DC is getting worse by the minute... feel like I'm going to hack up a lung!

take care all, Paula

Cathy-CA · March 2008

Jenn -- Don't have any personal experience with a MUG specifically, but I wouldn't be too concerned since this showed in an earlier one and no one said anything I've mentioned that my older son has a lot of health problems and during an MRI of his head about eight years ago when he was hospitalized, a bright white spot showed up the in the frontal lobe. Doctors couldn't decide what it was, so called in infectious disease specialists, brain surgeon, neurologist and endocrynologist to get opinions. In the end, they decided the only way to know for sure was to do a biopsy and the risk outweighed just waiting. He had follow-up MRIs and each one showed less and less until about six months out, they couldn't even find a spot. Probably will never know what it was, why it showed up or why it disappeared. I remember one of the doctors on his case telling me that everybody has abnormalities and if you grabbed ten random people and gave them brain MRIs you would see abnormal spots, but that doesn't mean there's a problem. I suspect it's the same thing with your MUG.

Jan 2008--Ain't it Great?

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