Jan 2008--Ain't it Great?

Cathy-CA · March 2008

The Decadron is keeping me from sleeping, so I figured I'd catch up before everyone wakes up around here. First, thanks for all the shout outs on yesterday's treatment. Everything went smoothly. My blood counts were down a bit from where they've been, so I don't know whether that's from the cold or just the cumulative effect. I go in for the Neulasta shot this afternoon and this is the first time I've felt like I probably need it.

Maz -- I have been so lucky with SEs, that the onc every time gives me the lecture on the chemo is still working even though I'm not experiencing any problems. Be grateful for being one of the fortunate ones!

PALady -- I had BCRA testing before surgery because I had several of the factors that would make me high risk. The tests came back negative which is why I opted for lumpectomy. I think it's good information to have particularly if you have sisters or daughters so that they can make more informed decisions. In my case, I'm an only child with sons, so it was only a factor in deciding what type of surgery.

Paula -- I love that you felt comfortable going "topless" in church. Easter service with my mother was one of the few times I've actually broken out my wig. A few years ago I went to church with a friend from aqua aerobics to hear her son sing a solo. One of the other women from the class was there and when she said hello to me, she made a comment about not recognizing me with clothes on. Boy did we get some stares from the people around us.

KathyL -- thanks for the recipe. It sounds yummy!

Deb -- My onc has me taking Vitamin B6 for the Taxotere neuropathy. If you aren't doing this, you might ask your onc if it's worth a try. I started mine in advance of treatment and have had very little problem. I get a tiny bit when I first get up before I get moving, but that's about it.

Vettegal -- I'm so sorry about your sister. Tell her we're all sending her positive thoughts.

Carol -- Congratulations on your golf round!

Kris60 -- Thinking of you today. May your SEs be few.

I normally sit and read when I'm getting my infusions, but yesterday there were two other bc patients in the lounge with me, so we were comparing notes. One of the women finished chemo in December and is just coming in for Herceptin. She said she's already had her first hair cut to even things out and is close to where she will be ditching her wig. I thought that was encouraging.

Also, the onc had these Biotene sample packs that included toothpaste, mouthwash, gum, gel and something else. Very handy for travel since I have two trips coming up this month. You might ask yours if they have them.

kris60 · March 2008

AC #5 in about 7 hours and all I have to say is FUBC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

that is all........

hope all are well

tootles

Kris

RN2teach · March 2008

Kris- best wishes to you in the chemo lounge today!

Vettegal- Patty, you and Denise are in my prayers. I'm very sorry that your family has been burdened so much. I hope we'll "see" Denise here sometime soon. Would love to share some Jewel Joy with her.

PaLady- glad you had a good time in Vegas. I hope those tootsies are feeling better. How was your rads sim sesson?

Joan- A big YIPPEE that you were able to taste your Easter feast! I'm glad you and your family were able to visit with your mother.

I would be excited about finishing up with chemo next week, too. That is a milestone to celebrate!

Deb- well, I'm sorry to lose my chemo buddy, but I think you and your onco made a wise choice--slows things down a bit, but worth the wait if it prevents permanent neuropathy.

You've been w/o hair for 3 years? I hope I'm not being too nosey, I just assumed your hair loss was recent... Again, forgive me if I'm overstepping by asking about it.

Thanks for the thoughts on courage. I really liked that!

Kimberly- I like your idea. I imagine my kids will enjoy the egg hunts in a few years. Right now they're in those awkward teen years where they don't want to be associated w/ anything child-like. They are so easy to embarrass. Sometimes I just can't resist doing something silly when we're out in public to get them going (like skipping through the mall).

KathyL- I'm happy to hear that your Easter went well. You and dh definitely deserve a night out--those are rare enough w/ little ones, let alone adding BC tx to the mix.

On the Powerball, remember you gotta play to win! I haven't played in years, but we could sure use the money. My dh's unexpected disability 2 years ago really shocked our budget. He is on SS, which brings in $60,000 less a year than what he was making as an electrician for AEP. We've kept his benefits, but AEP disability is only giving him a whopping $17 a month... so much for working 29 years for the company w/o EVER taking a sick day until he had the seizure and they found his brain tumor.

Jenn- rest well and feel better soon!

D1- you inspire me to pick up my exercise pace. I've gotten terribly lazy this winter. I've been walking, but not much else.

Dana- I like your avatar pic. LOL at losing the hair down there... it happens. Mine just thinned out. I'm still waiting to see what Taxol is going to do to my hair. I still have eyelashes and eyebrows and I have some stubble that appears to be growing on the head... I guess this weekend will tell the story.

Carol- glad you got an extra day on 'cation and get to fly home FC. Three cheers for your dh!

Tina- you are sooo good! I've not been much on sweets w/ chemo, but a good homemade cake would take some willpower to resist.

WVgirl- hope AC is kind to you this week. Took me about a week to get over each treatment. Not looking forward to all this neuropathy stuff w/ the T... hope it passes me by!

CathyCA- LOL at your church story. Wishing you a se-free day.

I was awakened at 6am this morning by the sounds of heavy equipment working just outside my window. It is a joyful sound, considering that equipment is working to install water lines so us country bumpkins can finally get public water! That is still months away--they have to get water to all the families on the main road (holler) first and we live on a hollow that branches off of that one. The reason they are out here today has something to do with the stream crossing and having to get the lines in before the minnows spawn in April. That's news to me as I am not a fisherperson, but at least the DNR is on my side--means we can have our lines run and be ready to go when they get to us later this year (hopefully).

It's taken me almost an hour to catch up. Gotta go get ready and take dd to the orthodontist and then the mall (she can't pass up an opportunity to shop).

Catch you gems later, Paula

Wing · March 2008

Well, Well, Well, It's taken me 3 mornings of reading to catch up on everone (lots of goings on!). I've been on a road trip, sick of anything to do with B/C I to have put away all B/C publications I'm sick of it! FUBC!!

It would be impossible to shout out a weeks worth comments, Sorry bout that. exept for some very noteworthy ones.

This was my last week not going to the chemo bay for the next 12 as I start Taxol for 12 weekly Wed sessions, Thats probably why I took my B/C hiatis (sp?).

Hope all had a great Easter with family and friends!

Best wishes for all going to the chemotini bar with me this week may the se's be few and far between!

Vettegal, so so sorry about your sis I hope she comes to the website for some words of comfort from the jewels.

D1, I'm jealous of you and the others finished with chemo, I'm not even close enough to the end to begin the countdown.

Carol, Happy to hear dh's tool sidetracked the screeners and spared you any embaressment of checkin' out the hoot! Thanks again for the fridge metal.

Taxol sisters keep the info coming on the se's I'm nervous about starting on it on Wed. as I am on my feet all day at work and worried about the neuropathy.

Maz, Very sorry to read about you bff that really s#^@s. Hopfully she can open up and talk to you about it soon.

Tina, I'm love brownies I'm going to try them when I can taste 'em.

Cathy congrat's on airing out the baldatious head in church too funny! I decided yesterday not to wear the "rug" to work for the first time and wore a black bandana instead my co-workers were very supportive and a few said I look like a pirate my dh said a should wear an eyepatch there tonight.

Have a great day everyone, gotta go the eyes and sore fingertips have had it for now.

RN2teach · March 2008

Oh yeah, just thinking about our Jewels who haven't posted for awhile.

sheebas (Judy), Trudy, Jackieb, Sunshine, jkiss (Jenny), Trudy, Amy, Billsgirl, Deb3girls, kilika, AZDonna, deniseann, deeat58, and yuyubear: best wishes to all of you. Hope life is treating you well!

Hey there, Wendy! Glad you're doing well. I've just started Taxol--have mine every 2 weeks, 2nd one this Friday. First round se's lasted a week--bone and muscle pain...not fun, but tolerable.

Anonymous · March 2008

Wendy, the weekly Taxol is definitely a lighter dose than the every-2 or 3-week Tx, so you may be as lucky as I have been and not have any neuropathy. However, I do recommend beefing up (literally Laughing ) the iron to keep the red blood cell production healthy, 'cause Taxol is kicking my reds in the butt. And keep an eye on fluid retention.

Paula, I had all my lashes and eyebrows after 4xAC, but started losing the lashes/brows shortly after starting Taxol. It's not like the hair, it's a slow steady loss. I think I have about 2-3 weeks left before I'll be lash/brow bald.

KathyL, I will be having #6 of 12 Taxol/Herceptin this Thursday (not #5). And my Herceptin-alone afterwards goes to every 3 weeks. Thanks for staying on top of all our Tx schedules !

Jenn51 · March 2008

Hi Jewels, As usual each day after Mon. gets a little better. I'm guilty of thinking that once I feel a little better I can do a lot more. So is dh to a point. Probably my attitude. Then I end up in the chair gasping for breath & aching all over again. By the time I'm done with chemo I will probably have all of this down pat. I have been taking Taxotere since Jan. and haven't had too much of a problem with neuropathy. I know I'm lucky there because I had a real bout with it a few years ago. I was afraid the T would get it started again, but so far so good.

Vettegal, I am so sorry to hear about your sis's results. At least she will have a wonderful path to follow. The one you have already started. I hope she opens up to you, for both of your sakes. It is very hard when someone we love won't take the help & support we need to give them.

I have dealt with the ‘blah' taste in my mouth thru most of this. It seems to come & go. Some days things taste good, some days they don't. (Almond Joy/Mounds jingle is bouncing in my head) And I can't find anything to help. The biotene helps with the sore mouth but has such a yucky taste itself it doesn't do any good. Funny how one day sweet tastes good & another it will be sweet. And I can find no pattern.

Just why is it you get comped at Planet Hollywood? Is that when you lose a lot or win? I've only been in a casino twice, both last year. Once in MI on an Indian reservation & once on the cruise with gfs this Oct. Loved it! Must do it again! We have some river boats in the southern part of IN but what I really want is to go back on another cruise. Heaven!!!!

D1, Your comment about arm hair made me look. I still have some, but not nearly as much as before. I have 1 strip down the inside of each calf that grows very slowly. This is all so very weird.

Paula, You remind me of the things I used to do to my boys when they were younger & we would be out. I loved to try to trick them down the "feminine products aisle" of a new grocery. We would play toss the can to ds, who tossed it to other ds who put it the basket. But when the can of corn became a box of pads, all h*ll broke loose. They played hot potato & it usually ended up on the floor. I know people thought we were crazy, but we had fun.

I have not used all of my energy but I really should put in an hour or so of work. End of the month is coming up & I have to get some things balanced out. And I think it is time to graze again. I'm thinking wonderful thoughts for all of you & your loved ones.

Hugs & Love.

wvgirl · March 2008

Just at lunch and checking in

Kris- Hope your treatment goes well today. Kick some cancer butt gal.

Paula- Wish you could have shared in the joy of winning some of that power ball loot . From what I have heard the lucky 8 that won here in Morgantown was well needed unlike the Wittaker fellow that won a few years ago. Hope your water comes soon to you..It's sad to work somewhere as long as your dh did and only get that much a month its a shame!!!

D1 Sorry to be the barrier of bad news. Yep she said MONTHS I am going to the the doc's assistant tomorrow I will ask her how many months.

I get my ultrasound Friday to compare size

Collage girls are on spring break this week and ask to take there turn at going to round 5 Friday.

SISKimberly · March 2008

Good Morning Jewels,
I took a long walk yesterday with my teacher friend who has bc, then spent some time with a neighbor, who has twin 2 year old girls and a 6 year old boy. She enjoys the chance for adult conversation, which I totally understand, and I enjoy watching her kids being kids. Today, I hope to get out for some more exercise, do a few errands, and then meet the dh for a function at a new office opening event for his work.

Kathy- I’m so glad your fog didn’t last long at all!!!! That’s great.
A warm jaccuzzi tub with the dh sounds nice, and dinner out next week even more devine. I’m sure your dh will be thrilled to have a nice evening out with his beautiful wife celebrating the end of chemo (I know Herceptin is still in the future, but the worst is over).

Deb- I love that quote!!!!! Courage doesn’t have to be held up like a banner, but can be kept private and personal. Neither way being right or wrong, just how it is.

Jenn- How cute…a fire truck basket. Thank goodness for wonderful dh’s taking over the Easter Bunny duties. It is amazing how talking is such an effort during the fog isn’t it? Glad your listening to your body and just sleeping and resting when you need to do that. LOL on the feminine pads hot potato game.

D1- A compression bra? That sounds like it defeats the whole purpose of a bra…to accentuate the girls’ attributes…and how uncomfortable it must be, like a gurdle (sp) for boobs. So, let us know how your MRI and CT scan look to your babyonc.

Vettegal- Bummer on not tasting the ham, but I’m with you on the sweet potatoes. I had a baked sweet potatoe last night with my ¼ of a grass fed steak and green beans…the dh likes regular baked potatoes and ate the other ¾ of the steak. My dh is an awesome cook.

I’m so sorry about your sister’s dx. I too hope she goes online, but also that she continues to talk to you and let you support her.

Yep,that icky taste is a problem from about Day 3 or 4 and doesn’t clear up for at least a week. I use Biotene, too, but it doesn’t last long. Baking soda rinses may help. I did that once the sores appeared, but by then the pasty tongue wasn’t a big issue.

Dana- I’m sorry you’re having bone pain. Have you tried Ibuprophin (sp) ? It helps me with that. And don’t forget the Vaseline to moisten the inside of your nose. Are your eyes watering and nose running? It may not be allergies,so be certain before you treat yourself for allergies. It is a common se of chemo. Eye drops for the eyes. Nose running is tears coming through the nose…thinner than regular nose mucus. Hang in there…I know it seems like a long road, but you’ve just started. We’ll be here for you…no worries.

Carol- Well heck on the humidfier not working, but like you said, it’s only a few more months. I’m so glad the pinot gris was good and that you slept so well. Hooray for extending your ‘cation for another day and first class on the way home…whoohoo!!!! Go dh!!!!
Looks like we’ll be sharing a cocktail together on April Fools Day, eh? Enjoy your time away. I’ll be taking a short weekend getaway to Tahoe this weekend, and am looking forward to that.

Tinalee- Good call on the cake and the office, and how nice to have some quiet time to just do whatever you want to do for a few days.
Glad the bone pain is under control and that you’re able to get out.
So, what are your plans having the house all to yourself? BTW, I agree that living a good life is Spiritual. I loved Fargo!!!! Cracked me up.

Wvgirl- So glad to hear from you. Yeah, the cumulative effects of chemo suck especially the overwhelming fatigue that seems to linger longer and longer between txs.

CarolCA- Glad all went well at the lounge yesterday. LOL on the not recognizing you with your clothes on comment.

Kris- Go get ‘em gal!!!!! We’ve all got your back. #5, and then only one more!!!!! WhooHoo!!! I get to say that on Tuesday, not that I’m looking forward to heading back into the fog just as I’m starting to come out completely, but to be so close is very motivating.

Paula- Oh you are a girl after my own heart…that is so like something I would do…skipping through the mall to embarrass the teenager. Now, I have to do that stuff at school as my son is so used to the ‘weirdness’ of the family it has no effect anymore.
My students think I’m nuts, but it makes me accessible to them…I’m not some authority figure they can’t talk to, but a real human being.

$17 a month? You’ve got to be kidding!!!! Man, so much for rewarding loyalty and competence.

Have fun with the dd today.

Hey Wendy- Welcome back…and I soooooo understand wanting to take a break. I too had to just clear all cancer related things away as I too just hit the bc wall. Good luck with your first Taxol infusion.

I’m seconding Paula’s wish for those who haven’t posted in a long time-sheebas (Judy), Trudy, Jackieb, Sunshine, jkiss (Jenny), Trudy, Amy, Billsgirl, Deb3girls, kilika, AZDonna, deniseann, deeat58, and yuyubear: best wishes to all of you. Hope life is treating you well!

LJ13- With TAC, I’ve lost all my hair of course, including my arms D1, and my lashes and brows have thinned, but not to the point I can’t use mascara to plump up what’s left or use a little brow color to make them fuller. I’m hopeful that #5 and #6 will leave what’s left alone, but I won’t hold my breath on that one.

All-righty then…all caught up.

Have a great day ladies,
SIS Kimberly

KathyL · March 2008

So much to catch up on today! I am pooped. Don't know if it's from chemo, the bad cold I've managed to catch, or the fact that the kids are exhausting me (note: don't have small children around the week after doing chemo!)-or hey, maybe all of the above! I'm just trying to take it slow. At least my littlest still naps for 2 hrs. each afternoon. And dd has been pretty good today about helping out. To top it all, I lost my voice yesterday-so can't yell at them anyway. I think they recognize the "evil eye" glare by now when they are pushing their luck with me.

I've read the many, many posts so know I'm thinking of all of you even if I don't write to you below...

D1: Glad that nail is hanging on. Sounds like you've been busy!

Vettegal: My heart goes out to you and your sister. I'm sure you will be a huge support/strength to her.

Cathy-CA (and others doing BRCA testing): Remember that BRCA is not just for breast cancer. So those of us that have sons, BCRA2 mutations in men can indicate an increased risk for male BC and prostate cancer. Some pancreatic and colon cancers have also been linked to BRCA mutations.

Good news on the hairfront, too. Thanks for posting about the woman you met. I miss my hair and want it back!

Paula: You and I BOTH need to win Powerball.

LJ: Glad you're father along than I thought!

Dana: LOL about the "hair down there". I have a few that have managed to hang on-it looks like a bad brazilian waxing!

Wendy: Glad to see you again. I took a long break from reading anything BC related, too (except this thread of course). I rarely surf for info anymore either (I just read updates that I subscribe to, and only if I see something interesting). I just started reading Deanna Favre's book; the first BC related read in months.

SIS Kimberly: I had the best steak last night. It was sooo good, I'm practically mooing today. Hopefully it'll help my sad RBCs.

All caught up! Catch you Gems later.

PAlady · March 2008

Hi Ladies!

Deb - I think you and your onc made the right decision on the rest of your txs. It stinks to have it dragged out any longer as we all know we want this crap to be done, but hopefully it will be more manageable for you. Love the courage poem!

Kimberly - sounds like you had a fun Easter. My kids are at the teen age years and are of course too cool to hunt for eggs! (although I got my younger two to decorate an egg or two!).Two great minds think alike! You and D1 both caught the swelling as possible cause for my toe problem. I guess that never occurred to me cause I never felt any pain. Was just shocked to see the black toe when I took off my shoe. Hope your mouth is better today.

Maz - so sorry about your bff. I can't imagine how hard that is. Hopefully you can lean on each other and enjoy the time you do have together.

KathyL - You definitely need to go out to that dinner! Enjoy having your kids home this week. Two of mine only had 3 days off. I like having them home.

D1 - I have been getting muscle pains when I am walking on the tm! I didn't even get until round 4 that it was from the chemo. The front of my shins kill. I think last round it lasted for about a week and a half. I was changing shoes and my workout trying to figure out what was wrong.

Vettegal - So sorry about your sister. That is awful that your family has to go through all this. We are not big gamblers but the trip was free from dh's company so it was fun!

Carol - Glad you got a good night of sleep. Sounds like you are having a wonderful vacation! I've been seeing ads for the 3 day walk. It sounds like something I would like to do in the future. That is cool that your friend is doing it. You will have to update us on what she thought of it.

Tina - I with you on the Fargo visual. Good job on getting rid of the cake! I have had waaay too many sweets the past week. I'm probably going to go through withdrawal trying to get back to healthy eating!

Cathy - Nice you got to chat with the other BC ladies. I like seeing the ladies at my support group who are done and seeing how their hair is coming along each month. I have 3 boys, so I am doing the BRCA testing more for me I guess. My younger sister had ovarian, my dad had tonsil cancer and my younger brother brain. So if it isn't this gene I know we have something. Hope your se's are minimal.

Paula - We are on well water too. My brother-in-law swears it is better to be on well water in case of some type of sabotage to the public water but I would love to be able to get on public water!

KathyL - thanks for the info on the BRCA. I knew it could be for the male bc, but not the prostate etc.

Rad sim yesterday was pretty easy. They laid me on the CT table same as D1, but marked me up with silver nitrate (I think - chemo moment). It itches a bit - but can't scratch it or it will come off. They won't give me the tattoos until my 2^nd or 3^rd treatment. Said I will need 6. D1 did they only give you one tattoo? I am happy that I only have to have 25 treatments which is 5 weeks. I have my dry run next Wednesday and start on Thursday the 3rd. I should be done mid-May!

Hope everyone has a good evening. I am an American Idol and Dancing with the Stars fan too, so I'll be veggen in front of the tv this evening!

sheshe48 · March 2008

Hi Jewels,

It sounds like each and every one of you had a wonderful Easter, I did too, I went to my sisters house and then to my mom's she was to sick to go. And I hope the MIA's had a wonderful Easter too. I loved reading how everyone's Easter went. I pooped from reading all the post. I really have to quit getting behind. Yesterday I got caught up on all my emails and today is this site. Thanks you to each and other one of you for your positive thoughts you all sent out to me. This site is the best pick me up, and it's a great support group. I have lost 10 pds since my last oncologist appt. That nurse said you can't go on a diet, diet when you have cancer. What a croc, like i'm trying to lose weight. Can you believe it, I gained 100 pds last year from my injury, most of it was fluid. My body is just losing the fluid, I have lost about 69 pds or so. The nurse said I have lost too much weight. Sorry Ha ha ha. I'll be glad when I lose the swelling around my arms. I'm going to have my sister take pic of me in my FUBC shirt at cancer center tomorrow. It's my last one, Yipee!!! I'll try and post the pix when my daughter has time to down load the pix for me to my computer. I really need to get into the 21st century. I'm still fat, but I know it will be gone one day. Hopefully by the wedding.

Dana Ok talking about lost hair, I have lost most of my hair down under, I'm waiting to get rid of the rest of it, LOL. I have lost most of my eye brows and eye lashes and face hair. I have lost all under arm hair, thank goodness) I still have to shave my legs. I think chemo is very selective when it comes to taking away our hair. Sorry you have had such a hard life. You have had it harder than most of us. I can't imagine my dd being on the streets at age 12. God saved you and protected you. He is not going to let you go now after every thing you over came. If anyone can beat this Dana its you, please never give up. Remember that doc can only Dx you, he can't dx your spirit. Yes, I know about tylenol and the liver. The doc don't want me to take motrin, because taxotere is a blood thinner. So I'm stuck with tylenol #3. I'm not going to take 1500 mg of tylenol again. That was way to much. God has plans for you my dear, and you will be that nurse and go on helping other people. I'll pray for your doc that he has a better out look for you and God will give him the power to heal you. Thanks for reminding me that God will not forget us. I really love reading your post.

Vettegal Great news about your mom's bc shrinking. I know she will beat this like the rest of us. I'm so sorry about your sister, that is like the worst news. I hope she joins us and I know you will be a great source of comfort to her. You are so good to dh. Thanks for the heavenly Hats link. Yes, I was just looking at my sandels yesterday, i'm ready.

Jenn51 Hang in there and hope you are feeling better today. Stay away from those Mac Trucks. LOL

Sis Kimberly Sorry about sore lip, what no one ask you for a autograph? (oh well) It's good to get off the computer and do something normal and get your mind off things. I think that's why I'm not on but once or twice a week.

tinaee123 Love your pix, hope you are feeling better from the treatment and spring has sprung, the sunshine has to be on it's way.

Maz Sorry about bff having cancer, she got the worst news. I hope she will pull thru. At least she has you.

D1 Sorry you friend is also fighting cancer, I lost my dad to colon cancer, sending good vibes to you and your friend. Glad you had a great time with your mom, sorry you had a bad experience getting your test done. I do think God for my picc line for things like this. Glad you got through it. I hope you don't lose your nail. Good luck with your first rads treatment. What a cool mom, to soothe with bourbon. Isn't that what mom's are for. To take care of their little girls? And you also took care of college girl and gave her a Easter basket. I know she was surprised.

Carol I'll try to be ready when you pick my brain after my daughters wedding or before, you crazy lady. LOL, I really love reading your post, you are a pick me up. I hope you have a really great vacation, I'm jealous. My oncologist checks my breast and throat and b/p and weight and heart and lungs.

Cathy-CA that's great your ds has beaten the odds, Hooray! sounds like you have a wonderful oncologist too.

CarolC Hope you are feeling better from the se's I'm like you and Paula, I sleep with my daughters cat almost every night. They are good company. I beleive the poor thing thinks I'm dying or something, she is not even a year old yet. I just tell her, I'm not going to die yet. I just look like Hell Ha ha ha.

KathyL Glad you are coming out of the fog. Keep us posted on your reconstruction surgery. I'm starting to feel self consious about my breast. My bc beast is one to 2 sizes smaller than my other breast and somedays it bothers me. I can't wear the inserts, because I'm allergic to latex and silicone. I have been meaning to even things with a sock or something. I'm just hoping to lose a lot of weight on the good breast side. anyone else feeling self conscoious? Thanks for the brownie recipe, I can't wait to try it. sounds yummy.

Good Luck at chemo lounge Cathy-CA, Kriss 60, CHJ127, LJ13, wvgirl, Deb102307, Paula, Vettegal last one Yipee!!, peg1212, Dana.

FUBC@@##**

Julie Love your Easter grapics very cool! Glad you are well.

Sis Kimberly I'm jealous of your 70 weather, it's in the 30's here windy and cloudy, snow on the ground. I know spring is on it's way. Enjoy the sunshine.

Deb Sorry about your feet and hands. I know the taxotere makes my feet tender. I really like your post on courage.

Paula Glad you had a good time at the game and working concession stand. I loved it when my daughter was in high shool and Jr. high. I really miss those days. oh glad you are in the 21st century for water. I always hated well water, I know you get used to it.

Palady Nice to hear you had a great vacation, i'm so jealous. Hope you don't lose toe nails. I hope the BRCA test comes back neg, we don't want our children getting cancer. I would like to be tested to see if I carry the gene. I have heard it's an expensive test.

tinalee123 That was a close one with the yummy cake, WHEW!!! hope dh gets home safe from Denver.

Well Cancer sucks and I know we will all get through this together.

Luv, you all Sheshe

Determined1 · March 2008

Hey Gang!!

Sending good thoughts out to our gem, Kris!!!

I agree with you, Wendy, FUBC!!!

Hey Jenn, just do what you can and don't push. Too many of us are learning that the hard way.

WVgirl--Grrrrrrr. Months??!!

So it sounds like you're back to your busy schedule, SIS Kimberly. Although the getaway to Tahoe sounds just great. Oh, and yes, it's a compression bra and it does defeat the purpose. I run around like a stuffed sausage these days and count the hours till I can take it off. It is, however, moving the fluid out, so it's working. I'm bummed and happy about that at the same time.

PALady--OMG, I've had to stop using the treadmill altogether because the pain in the fronts of my shins was excrutiating! Oh, and I have one tattoo so far. I'm supposed to get 2-3 more. You know me, I'm really looking forward to that!

So, I get a call from the rad dept today to reschedule my start date. I was supposed to start this Thursday at noon, but babydoc wants more time to review my test results. I told the scheduler that I was going to swing by the hospital later to drop off the CD with my MRI pix on it for him. So, I toddled over to G'town this afternoon to drop off the CD and to give babydoc's nurse an order for more le tx for him to sign. While I was there, babydoc came down the hallway and asked me if I had a few and could wait to talk with him for a minute. You bet I can talk! So I waited. 'Bout 5 mins later he sticks his head into the hallway and motions for me to come on down.

Turns out they found a cyst under my left (bad) armpit on the CT scan I had done last Thursday. Babydoc will not start rads if there's anything in my body that shows up on my scans (he said rads take care of the things you can't see--surgery gets the stuff you can see). He wants to check w/ some surgeon pals of his to see if it can be drained or if I need to have it removed. He suggested that when he gets his answer I head back to my surgeon to have whatever done. I told him I'm not going back to my surgeon anymore and I told him why. (I even gave him the story from college girl where she said that my surgeon was seeing 17 bc patients a day but I'm the only one that matters to her and she wants my docs to treat me that way. Then I told babydoc I picked him to be my radonc because he made me feel like I was his only patient--a little sucking up. I said that my surgeon didn't have time for me, so I don't want to go back.) So, babydoc said he'd try to find me a surgeon among his friends, but he warned me that surgeons are strange and don't like to clean up others' messes (he used more diplomatic language, but that was the gist). I'm hoping he can find someone else. And I'm hoping that when this cyst thing is removed I'll get some relief under my arm (still hurts to put it by my side). He seems to think it will help. Bad news is that my rads are being pushed back. Long story to tell you all that I'm on hold for now. I really want to just get on with it...

I think maybe I should whip up KathyL's brownie recipe and try some bribery to get this show on the road!

Oh, I'm so distracted. Dd seems to want to chat and I can't multitask anymore, so I'm going to sign off and listen to her. Teens don't feel like chatting often, so I want to take advantage of the opportunity. Later.

D1

deb102307 · March 2008

Cathy-CA Thanks for the tip on the B6. I will look into it. It seems my dietician had said something about it too.

Paula - I will miss you at the chemotini lounge too but I know that this is best. I was almost comforted to know that I wouldn't be subjected to the se's again so soon. AND no problem asking about the hair. I think I had kinda mentioned it on here before but here is the scoop in a nutshell (I hope). I got this weird autoimmune disorder called Graham-Little-Piccardi-Lesseur syndrome (spelling may be a little off). I started getting little sores and hair breakage. At first they thought may be thyroid related or Lupus but after biopsy and being the guinea pig for Grand Rounds in the Dermatology dept, I was diagnosed. Sadly, the hair loss is permanent. Though I have been joking with my friends that maybe this would trigger it to grow back. Wouldn't that just be a hoot! It really doesn't bother me too much anymore. I used to feel almost guilty because people I didn't even know would come up and say things like "It will grow back" and I knew they were thinking I had cancer. Well, now I just let it be and let them think that. My friends and coworkers know the truth and are so ok with it. I own so many bandanas and caps and am always looking for new head covers. I think this summer, I will be able to be more courageous and go topless when it is hot. After chemo, that should be a walk in the park. Was that more than a nutshell? Sorry if it was.

I was happy to be able to get to work today and actually stay until 2 this afternoon. But now I am pooped and ready to get my feet up. They are not quite so stinging today. My hands are not painful anymore but now are peeling. And what is it with my eyes? They are so watery and burn and all around my eyes is tender. Woke up this morning and my eyes were crusted shut. Sorry gross. Using eye drops but doesn't seem to help with the weepiness. And it is mostly when I have been at the computer too long or reading.

Well, 3 more to go so I am thankful. And I am thankful for everyone here that always has a good word.

Time to get the feet up.

(((HUGS))) to all the Jewels.

vettegal · March 2008

Good Evening Jewels Kiss

Thanks for all the warm wishes for my sister. she finally told my mom today....what drama in my family! My mom, think of Tony Sopranos mother from the Sopranos....That is the only way I can describe her to everyone.

I really want her to come to the boards but she is really going to fight me on this and I told her numerous times..I will keep trying!

Jenn51-I used to go to Aladdin but it got sold to Planet Hollywood. I have a casino host I made friends with and she gets me in the slot tournaments. I don't spend alot of money, but they know I am a loyal guest for about 7 years. I love those slot machines..love that noise...ching-ching- ching...LOL Tongue out

I am getting nervous/anxious for the last treatment. I did call my dr to tell them about my sis and maybe look at genetic testing. we will see. They will give me my rx for tamoxifen and the Rads dr. which I heard is fabulous at the Arnold Palmer Cancer Center close to where I work. So,I can go over on my lunch or before work.

I look at April 1st as being reborn again in life. New beginings, new hair (yippee) new lease on life. Rads should be a breeze after this chemo crap. Nothing really matters anymore just my family, my health and the January Jewels. The things that really used to piss me off or stupid things, just don't really matter to me anymore. All i need is my dh and my health. Sorry venting again! Laughing The simplist things in life...like smelling the flowers I got today..roses, boy did they smell exceptionally great today. The grass is growing and getting green. The buds on my trees. It is nice to slow down and really see what I have been missing.

Hope everyone is doing great today, whether it se free or just being happy to be alive...

Hugs toeveryone...xxoo

Patty aka vettegal ( my alias)

Anonymous · March 2008

Deb, my eyes were like that all through AC. It's taken being off AC for about 4 weeks for them to be much better.

I think it was blocked tear ducts for me. Try googling it, there is a little massage thing you can do to try to force the liquid through the ducts. I did it for about 2 weeks and it seemed to work pretty well.

Determined1 · March 2008

Sorry, can't stay away. Vettegal, please tell Vettesis and Vettemom they are most welcome here. It's important to get support from women sharing the experience (as we all know). Hopefully, if they don't want to come here, they can join another thread on the site or even find another support group. The important thing is to share this journey, the burden is just too much to bear alone.

Deb, I'm so happy to hear your hands and feet are a little better today. That's great news!!! And you made it to work! Hooray! (I know that's important to you.) You know, I did TC and have had horrible problems with my eyes. Tearing like you describe (complete with the gross-out crusting), but my vision has also changed. It seemed to change with each tx (the LensCrafters folks were getting tired of making me new glasses every 3 weeks, but I got lucky and ordered new specs right before my first tx and with their 30-day guarantee, I kept getting new ones for free!). Now I'm no longer sure I can use my contacts, since the rx is several iterations ago (plus, with the tearing, I'd wash the darn things out, anyway). You know, it's always sumthin'.

Think I should go out and smell some flowers at Vettegal's suggestion--it's a nice day here (a little chilly, but there's sun, by golly!).

D1

JulieK_11_30_07 · March 2008

Hello fellow Jewels! Hope everyone's Tuesday has been a good one. I'm still fighting either allergies or a potential cold - coughing is really bad at night. Thank goodness for Nyquil! My onc said as long as I don't have a fever, he doesn't think it needs to be treated - we'll see how it progresses.

Kris - hope your treatment today went without a hitch and your se's are minimal!!

SheShe - Yea! Your last one is tomorrow! Hip Hip Hooray for you!!! Glad you had a nice Easter with your family. I, too, am one that has lost weight - not that I'm trying! That just tends to happen when you're puking for four days straight after chemo! The nurse "tsk tsk'd" me one time when I weighed in too. I typically gain most of it back the week of chemo b/c I eat like a pig and I want to make sure my counts are okay for my next treatment.

CHJ - I'll be thinking of you tomorrow also at the chemo lounge - getting closer to the end, girl!

Maz - so glad your se's are mild for you this time. Glad you got to talk to Val - I'm sure she appreciates your support so much.

Paula - LOL on the going topless in church!!! Love it! Glad you had a nice Easter with the family.

PALady - Welcome back from Vegas!! Sorry you're having a hard time with swelling - as are others here. Hopefully you'll have some relief soon.

Joan - Yippeee to being able to taste the Easter dinner! I, too, was lucky to be able to taste everything. It was nice to enjoy time with family with some good eats!

Deb - I'm sure you're not too happy to be extending your treatments, but hopefully the new schedule will help you with the problems you're having.

Kimberly - Your Easter egg hunt sounds fun!!! My ds (12) decided he didn't want to hunt eggs this year - makes me so sad that he's growing up! I did do a basket for him, though, and for my 5-yr old niece, so at least I got to enjoy putting those together. Good to hear your lip is getting better - hopefully by now it's completely healed!

Kathy - hope you and the dh get to go on a date soon. We went out to dinner last week, thanks to some gift cards we received, and had a nice time -- ds chose to stay home, so it was just me and the hubby.

Jenn - Hope you're feeling better today - sorry the truck found you. It will be coming to my house at the end of this week, unfortunately!

Vettegal - I'm so sorry about the news on your sister. I will continue to pray for her and hope that she will seek the support she will need through this. I'm sure it was difficult telling your mom. Keep us posted.

Carol - LOVE the magnet!!! You are awesome!! Glad you got to enjoy some vino and are having a good time!

Tina - Hope you're enjoying some "alone" time with dh and ds's gone! That sounds heavenly! Mine are both home on Spring Break this WHOLE week - they're already driving me crazy!!

WVGirl - Hope you're feeling somewhat better today - hang in there!

Paula - Here's hoping you win one of those Powerballs! Yikes - that's quite a difference in your dh's pay - and after 29 years??!! There's something wrong with that picture!!

Dana - your new pic is adorable!! Hope you're feeling good!

Kimberly - glad you're feeling good! Sounds like you're definitely taking advantage of it - good for you!

D1 - sorry to hear they put your rads off, but it's a good thing they found the cist and can deal with it. I hope babydoc finds a surgeon for you that you're comfortable with.

Okay - I think I'm finally caught up! Wow!

Saw my onc today - good to go for #5 on Thursday. He scheduled me for my second MUGA for tomorrow - he said with 6 treatments, it's typically redone after 4. Hoping it turns out okay. I also had my 3-month follow-up yesterday with my breast surgeon. She said everything looks great and referred me to a plastic surgeon for my reconstruction. I'm hoping to call and schedule a consultation for mid-May after all my chemos are done and my se's should be minimal by then. I'll spend the summer "building" my new girls - should be grand!

{{{{{HUGS}}}}} and love to all!

Julie

tinalee123 · March 2008

Good evening, jewels.

Kris60 and CathyCA – Hope you’re tx went smoothly and the next few days are light in the se department.

Sheshe and CHJ – Good thoughts are heading your way for your turn at the bar tomorrow.

Sheshe – Double YAY for the last one!!

Wendy – Great to hear from you! Please don’t worry about taxol. It’s not a breeze, but, it definitely is better than AC. I just had tx #2 last Thursday. I get mine every two weeks, and have two to go. I do notice tingling in the finger tips that comes and goes, but it’s not painful. And, nothing noticeable in the feet or toes. I have to be honest, like Paula, and say that bone pain is the biggest issue for me. I find it starts Sat. afternoon thru Sun. night. I get a neulasta shot on Friday afternoons, too – adding to the bone discomfort. I stay on top of the motrin for the first four days or so, and am all about ativan for helping with sleep. I also took LJ’s advice about pumping up the iron. My counts last Thursday were better than the previous tx.

PAlady – Thinking of you and your rad sims, I hope they’re uneventful. Mid-May is just around the corner, girl, it will be here before you know it!

Kimberly – Your weekend away sounds wonderful. Any special plans? As for me, I have a pretty quiet house. I’ve just been working during the day, and kick back in the evenings – couch potato style. Speaking of potatoes, omg, I LOVE sweet potatoes! I found some frozen organic sweet potato fries, will let you know how they turn out.

Carol – Cool things – wine and first class. Glad you could get away. Dh and I are planning a trip in early May to visit family (Madison, WI) that we miss terribly. Our niece and her new husband were married the day before bc surgery, so, we didn’t travel there for the wedding. I was so bummed! We finally found the perfect wedding gift (3 mos. later) – we had a cedar chest made for them by an Amish community in SE Minnesota (big areas of Amish there). They just received it last week and were thrilled! They knew “something” was coming, but, didn’t know what. They immediately called and raved about it. It sits at the foot of their bed. Another relative, who also couldn’t make it to the wedding, sent them a beautiful handmade Navajo blanket. Now they have a place to store it! Here’s to travels!

Wvgirl – How cool that you’ll have some new company at tx #5. Ds #2 is on spring break (late) at the end of this week, and all of next, I’m going to ask him if he’d like to join me for tx#3. I may try to lure him by letting him know the clinic has wifi and his text messaging will work, too.

Jenn – Me, too, on the taste-bud thing. Right about the time AC was ending, and taste was coming back, Taxol started and the buds went straight in the toilet (again). Nothing helps. Some days are better for certain types of tastes, than others. There’s no pattern. Oh, well, I’m eating and drinking anyway, doggone it!

Paula – What encouraging words about new beginnings. Thanks, it’s always good to have a reminder to stop and smell the roses!

On that note – good night.

Tina

RN2teach · March 2008

Evening Gems,

Ended up taking ds and dd and two of their friends to Charleston today. Went to orthodontist and then the mall (I refrained from skipping, but I did dance to the A & F music).

Kimberly- My kids tolerate my weirdness (secretly I think they enjoy it, but they just roll their eyes). My students on the other hand love it. The teen years are so full of turmoil and I think it is good for them to see adults that love life and like to have fun.

Jenn- I LOVE the pad hot potato game. LOL, thanks for the idea--always looking for new tricks to pull on my kids Laughing .

LJ- I've been trying to increase my iron intake, hopefully my blood counts will stay okay for the rest of my treatments. I found that my watery eyes were from blocked tear ducts, too. Still doing the massages as I notice an increase in tearing when I stop.

Kathy- hate to hear that you've got a cold on top of everything else. Get well soon! (((HUGS)))

PALady- I've also noticed the shin thing when I walk. I am a big power walker and never had this b4. Never thought about it being r/t chemo... just thought I was really out of shape from laying around all winter.

Sheshe- 70 lb. is a lot to lose, but I'm assuming your blood levels are staying okay? Just take care of yourself!

D1- what else is gonna happen to you? Can't believe you have a cyst getting in the way of your rads. Hoping babydoc finds just the right surgeon to take care of it quickly so you can get on with it!

Deb- glad you made it to work for a little while today. Thanks for sharing the story behind your alopecia. I don't recall reading about it before. You were way ahead of us on dealing w/ the hair loss... no wonder you've got good info to share on hats and wigs.

Vettegal- Cancer def. helps you get your priorities straight, doesn't it? One of the positive things about dh's cancer 2 years ago was that we were forced to slow down. We spent the summer (while he was going thru chemo and rads) kicked back on our front porch visiting w/ neighbors and friends. Porch sitting is now a new form of relaxation for us!

Speaking of relaxation, time to kick back and watch DWTS!

Sheshe and CHJ: best wishes to you as you step up to the chemo bar tomorrow!

Paula

sheshe48 · March 2008

Hi Gems,

Can't sleep because of decadrons, I just thought I would get a little ahead of myself before I get behind again.

Paula my wbc are great 5000 range. That's the highest so far since chemo. I'm usually in the 4000 range. Glad you and ds and dd and friends had a great time in charleston.

Juliek I know those nurses are a trip, if we don't have appetite or having stomach pains and in your case tossing cookies for 4 days. We are going to lose weight, I do force myself to eat. I hope your cold gets better. I'm starting to get sick of being sick. I'm also glad you had a nice Easter with your family.

Deb Try the warm soak wash clothes, I suffered with that too in the beginning with the AC, it's not that bad now with the TC. I used the lubercant drops and allergy drops. It seems like nothing worked. I think the warm soak wash clothes are the best bet. Sorry your hair loss is permanent and that you have that autoimmune syndrome. I don't know what it is, I'll have to look it up. I hope you will be ok. I'll pray for you.

D1 Sorry about the cyst, it's best to get that taken care of. I know you hate having your rads put back. I hope cute baby doc can set you up with a great surgeon.

KathyL Hope your cold gets better real soon.

Lots of Hugs and everyone have a good week, Sheshe

LWDana You need to eat foods with iron to get your wbc back up.

LilWarrior · March 2008

Hi Ladies, as you can see I did it. I couldnt stand losing my hair in the shower. It was miserable to me to see my hair come out in clumps so I told my ex lets just do it. I feel so free now! It feels good to allow the shower to rub over your head, its feels as though it is massaging your head. My bf asked me today what is the worse thing about Cancer and I said the tiredness and bone pain but I think the worse will be if I lose my eyelashes and eyebrows and she said to me it would be losing my hair, and I told her that comes and goes and I can still look feminine and pretty with makeup. Its funny to see how everyone sees their beauty different. Bone pain has subside ladies with Advil 600mg, and I am getting so tired lately. I feel like a little kid cause I race home to take a nap then I get back up and finish whatever task that need to be done. Tomorrow I am going to get my pep up and fight this tiredness.

Kim, no my nose is not running anywhere Laughing its very dry and bloody and crusty. I use saline and vaseline for it all day long. I dont like to complain because it can be worse.

Sheshe, I am glad someone appreciates the word, and dont you forget it. Read the book of Job! You are too sweet to say all those kind words and I greatly appreciate it. It made me smile. I love you pumpkin! I really do hope, pray and believe I will beat this. I am starting my life anew tomorrow with a new hair do and new body - its thru FAITH and trust in God that I am not afraid what is too come. Death is not final to me, so I am not afraid of whatever God has for me. I just want to have a meeting with him (God) and let him know THAT I THINK I have much more to offer the WORLD if I stay a while longer. He ha. So I will let you know how the meeting goes tomorrow - LOL!!! He ha!!

You know what I really like being bald, it feels so free and the shower massages my head. It feels good, I am going to have to work on downbelow now because it looks bad - some hair here, and so hair there - it looks like a blind person cut it. He ha! It really doesnt matter cause I havent used her in a while - hell its a web there now and I call her Charolette - he he....

Have a blessed night Ladies!! Cant wait to show my class tomorrow!

Love ya, REMEMBER HAVE FAITH IN GOD AT ALL TIMES.... HE IS OUR HEALER... NEVER UNDER ESTIMATE HIM!

golfer779 · March 2008

Okay, if you only knew how long this took to post, came home from golf today, tried to download pics, did that, then it took a few margaritas for the dh, a glass or "two" or wine and dinner out to have the dh and I to finally get these posted. My patienced we're at wits ends and the dh helped to finally get a pic or two posted on "cation".

'

The dh and I, yesterday on the course at our friends course in Mesa. The dh, said make sure that my bc friends know his shirt is a little "putshy", he looks honkin' in the pic when he's really not !!!

My golfin' buddy Dana, she's the gf that went on my new boob shopping experience about 3 weeks ago, gotta love her!!! We went to a Mariners spring training game on Sun, the ticket usher pointed Kent and I in her direction when the dh and I we're looking for our seats, as her husband and her had already seated, she said "oh' I think I just seated your mom"!, imagine this but I had to pee prior to being seated ... still trying to drink like a camel with the water intake on "cation"!. Dana laughed at the thought of being my mom, she said okay that's possible, I could have had you when I was 15!!! What great friends, met at my first year of the women's golf league, 10 years ago, back in our home town.

Golf is hard work ...

I kept telling my dh today, this is much better than a day at work, even if we had some golf shots that left us in the desert today.!!!

I read through todays posts, its 10:30pm tonight AZ time, will need to include my shouts outs tomorrow.

Glad to here of a few fun times are planned for a few of you, taking your mind off of the reality of "it all" if pretty darn good if I do say so myself!!!

Although feeling a "bit" guilty from posting from such a lovely place this week, I'm so desparately hoping that others will have such good times in the very near future!!!

Kent and I have been invited to join a fellow bc.org gal that I have been corresponding with on a CMF thread. She lives in this great valley of the sun and has invited us to dinner at her home tomorrow with her dh and probably one of her dd's. What a small world this has become.

Thinking of you all, even if I can't keep my eyes open to shout out this evening, all my best to you all, and know I'm there in spririt to each and everyone of you.

Carol

LilWarrior · March 2008

Carol - i just love the pics - keep up your wonderful spirit!

Diana63 · March 2008

I am getting ready for taxol #3 on thurs., I wish it was every two weeks instead of every week. Anyway I thought would post a pic of my nephew Derrick, I got to spend Easter with him. He is to adorable for words, he has two new teeth he likes to try out on your arm if he get half a chance. Wink

sista2 · March 2008

Up in the middle of the night yet again. I really need to start taking something strong to sleep. Tylenol pm doesn't do it.

Great pix Carol. looks like a beautiful fla day out there in az. i'm so impressed by how well you're doing through all of this. my dh is talking about going on vaca between the end of tx and beginning of rads and all i can think is how am i going to have the energy for that? you go girl!

Diana63, Derrick looks very fine in his Easter suit. what a cutie.

is anyone getting stopped by strangers these days. it's happened to me several times where someone's wife has been through chemo and they stop me and tell me it's going to be okay. i'm not a very "chatty with strangers" person and pretty much stay in my own little bubble when i'm in public, i'd make a terrible crime witness. I guess covering the bald head with hats and bandanas is like a beacon for attention. it catches me off guard every time and all i can do is thank them for the encouragement but there's a look in their eye that you can tell they've been in 'our world'. the man today said his wife went through it last year and her hair has grown back "wild and curly". i am in total disbelief that my hair will ever be curly.

hope all the jewels are fast asleep right now. gonna go give it another shot......

chj127 · March 2008

Hi, all,

Up early, my chemo is at 11:00. Sheshe, I'll buy this round!! I have a good friend from work taking a vacation day (this is her second trip) to take me to chemo. She probably drives over 100 miles from her house to my house to the onc office and back again. She's such a sweetheart. I have so much to be thankful for.

Carol, your pictures are great!! Looks like a wonderful vacation, and it was a great time for you to be able to take a break like that. Wow, how nice to be in sunny "shorts" weather. Someday we'll get that here. Today it's supposed to be 60 and sunny - the nicest day all week. And where will I be??? Hooked up to chemo bags in a small room with no windows. Tongue out This too shall pass, though, and when it starts to get really nice, I'll be done!

I'm glad to hear that some of you are getting to enjoy food... For the past 2 weeks, I have had an appetite that just won't quit. Unfortunately what it wants is chocolate and junk food!! I've gained about 6 pounds since the last chemo. I guess that will ease up for the next week.

Vettegal - I too am so sorry to hear about your sister, and I know that you will be a big help to her.

Maz, ditto for your friend. It seems that it is harder to see others that we love go through this than to have to deal with it ourselves.

I'll never catch up on everyone individually, but congrats to those who are done with chemo! And for those starting rads, thanks for the info. I won't start rads until around the first of June, so it's nice to know what I am in for. I am going to start the process fairly early, because I want to make sure I can get on the schedule for a late-in-the-day appointment so it won't interfere with work so much (the radiation place is an hour from my office). Oh, well, let's not worry about that now, let's just get through the stinkin' chemo!!!

Thanks to all of you once again for your posts. Even though I don't post often, I'm in here a lot, and you all help me so much. What a blessing this group is.

Keep the faith, everyone!

CHJ

KathyL · March 2008

Sheshe: I'll bet a lot of the weight loss is from your injury resolving, too. I say eat sensibly and don't worry about it. 69 lbs. off is great (considering you said you gained 100)! I'll bet you can reach your goal for the wedding. Maybe we should all turn this thread into an exercise theme once we're all done with tx. Good luck today-your last one!

And ditto the comment on "sick of being sick"!

D1: Babydoc sounds like a good one. Glad you told him the facts and he's proactive. I know you're bummed about the delay in rads-but maybe if they fix this cyst-thing your arm will improve. That will be sooo worth it then!

Jenn: Love the grocery store/pad story. I'll have to remember that as my kids get older. Hee hee!

Deb: I have the eye issue too. Sometimes they're crusty or weepy, other times they sting from being dry. Weird! I keep rewetting eye drops around now and just put them in when in doubt. It's tough on my vision with contacts otherwise, and I hate my glasses.

Vettegal: You sound good this last post! I agree... it's nice to take time to enjoy the simple things.

Maybe you can coerce your sis by telling her she doesn't even have to type or be involved online, she can just read for a while.

Julie: Glad you, too, are feeling good before your next round.

Paula: I watched DWTS (and AI) last night. No surprise Monica got booted. That poor woman just dances like a man. She should stick to tennis.

Dana: Another beautiful bald Jewel!

Carol: Don't you dare feel guilty about your ‘cation! The pics are beautiful and you look so happy and relaxed. Those of us that can't be doing the same (like me) can at least live vicariously through you! Enjoy it, you deserve it after all this BC s*%t.

CHJ: Good luck today.

It's gonna be 60 today. I want to get outside with the kids, maybe run some more errands today. My voice is coming back, hopefully the energy level will follow and the cold sx will abate. Tomorrow my dad is coming to visit. Life is boring, but good!

texrn · March 2008

Hi all,

Hope everyone had a blessed Easter! We went to Louisiana ( where my dh is from ) for a long 4 day weekend - it was great! My dh's family has a mini-family reunion every Easter at his cousins farm that my dh & dk's go to every Easter - I've been working the "weekend plan" for the last 5 years, so this is the first Easter in a long while that I've been able to attend. I can see why my dk's look forward to it so much - there was an amazing spread of food ( thank goodness my taste buds came back to life! ), an Easter egg hunt, 4-wheeler trailer rides, & fishing for the kids ( his cousin made homemade poles for all the young ones...about 12 of them ).

Had my first follow-up with my onc on Monday...I don't see him again until July. I'm feeling pretty good except for some occasional indigestion, & persistent muscle & joint pain ( for which I take Alleve ). The fatigue has gotten a lot better - & I'm 3 1/2 weeks out from my last tx - so there's hope for all of you coming around the bend with the cumulative fatigue. I see the ps next week to schedule my exchange (implant) surgery - probably for the latter part of April. My eyelashes & eyebrows are still thinning...hope I turn the corner on that sometime soon b/c sometimes I can't bear to look at myself in the mirror - at this point I think I look worse than I feel. The hair on my head has stopped coming out & the white hairs are starting to grow - but I still look like a plucked chicken up on top...& down below. So far so good with my nails. All in all, I'm doing well - each day is better than the one before & my wonderfully full life is getting back on track - which is a blessing b/c it keeps me focused forward.

Have only had a chance to glance over the posts from the last week -

Vettegal - I am so sorry to hear about your sister's recent dx w/ bc - wow, your family sure has it's hands full - you, your mom & sis will be in my prayers.

KathyL - Thanks for the info on BRCA testing. I am scheduled to see the genetic counselor next week to have my bloodwork done.

Dana - you sound so full of life - I am so glad you are taking moments out of your busy schedule to rest & regroup. I think about you everyday.

I will try & catch up later on - my refrigerator is completely empty, so I need to run to the grocery store - first time in months without my dh's help.

Have a great day!

Therese

LilWarrior · March 2008

Diana - that little man is drop dead gorgeous. He looks mixed like me and what can I say about us beautiful mixed ones besides that we are so adorable. - heha. He is a hottie!!

Jan 2008--Ain't it Great?

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