jellydonut

Marin,

Just joining in to wish you the happiest of birthdays!  Hope you get the BIG ONE (that means whatever you want it to mean in a good way!)

Jelly

Rooni,

Sorry you have this on top of everything else.  ER's seem to be the luck of the draw but I'm dismayed to hear that apparently they did not pay attention to your heart problem in a timely manner. 

In 2006, I also had a heart attack (not fun!).  Had one stress test since.  It did involve a treadmill and as I recall was about four hours long.  I was injected with something (???), told to go sit and wait (the four hours mostly involved waiting!), then go back and be scanned, and so on and so on.  It was a very long morning, but honestly, there wasn't anything freightening about it and I am the number one sissy on the planet.     It's good to get it done and I agree with easyquilts that you'll do fine.  We'll be holding your hand!

Jelly

TomatoJuice,

First, my suggestion is to find an Onc that meets your needs and that you are comfortable with.  It's most important to have trust and confidence in the doctors' who are treating us for cancer.

As far as scans go, some oncs do and some don't.  Generally, a baseline bone scan is taken in the beginning, so there is something to compare to down the line.  A lot also depends on the type of insurance you have.  Pet scans are expensive and need good justification to be approved.  Just recently read an article that insurance companies are dilligently trying to reduce the number of scans to cut costs.  In the future we're going to see many less scans receiving approval unless we have symptons (pain, high TM's, yellow eyes).

Whether you do or don't change oncs, I would push for a bone scan at the very least.  Also, some docs run tumor marker blood tests and for some (about 75%) they are telling of spread.  You may also want to check w/your onc about your TM's, but be aware, once again, not all oncs use them.

Most scans emit radiation (for instance, CT scans emit 20x the amt of radiation than an xray) and it's my belief that the less scans the better, but I agree with baseline scans.  Of course not everyone shares this sentiment.

Wishing you the very best,

Jelly

Yes, it does happen to many of us and it's normal.  I've never been in actual combat, but the BC experience is combat  (to me) and definitely affects us emotionally. 

You're newly diagnosed and have had both of your breasts removed - that's enough to bring anyone to tears.  It's good you're on effexor, but if you find it's no longer working for you then ask to change to something else.  Happy that your nodes were clear, that's definitely good news.

Take the very best care of yourself, mentally and physically. 

Wishing you continued good health,

Jelly

Fatigue is a by-product of anemia, so to speak.  Your doctor can determine anemia through a simple blood test.  If in fact it is anemia, there are drugs or a blood transfusion that can give you back your energy.  Check with your doctor about this and ask about options.

Depression often comes with breast cancer for many.  For some it's only temporary and for others it lasts much longer.  There are many drugs for depression and it may be wise to keep trying until the right one is found.

Also, if it is something feasible for you, adopting a dog can have a multitude of benefits.  A dog will provide you with unconditional love and be your constant companion.

Megan gave you good suggestions - joining a support group may prove beneficial for you and get you out of the house. 

It's important to talk to your GP or oncologist about your fatigue/depression and ask what can be done.

Sorry you're in this position, but as Megan said, we're here for you.

Hope this is a very temporary thing and you'll be feeling good real soon.

Jelly

ShellyJo,

I'm a big believer in peace of mind.  It would be best to discuss your thoughts with your breast surgeon and explain to him that YOU will feel better removing both breasts (it's not about him - it's about YOU).  If you don't like what he/she says, do seek another opinion.  Also, your insurance company would have to approve.

Honestly, it isn't about what we think - it's your body and your decision, and it's best to go with your feelings.

I would suggest reading about mastectomy and looking at online pictures.  Get info about reconstruction as well, if you choose to go that route. 

You look very young by your photo and I'm sorry you're dealing with this horror.

All the best to you,

Jelly

Such fantastic news!  Prayers for everyone that all goes well.

Jelly

Lisa,

Wishing you extreme success with your treatment, but I'm very sorry these are the cards you've been dealt.  As some of the others have said, "IT SUCKS".

Hugs,

Jelly

CalGal,

I'm sorry your facing this horrible condition.  No one on the planet should have to endure mets to the brain.  I have no words of wisdom, just prayers that the WBR will do its job and it will be the last time you'll be dealing with this.

Prayers and hugs to you,

Jelly

It is well known that Suzanne Somers went the mistletoe route but I'm not aware of anyone else who took this.  I believe it's expensive and am thinking it's not available in the US.

You may want to check out PubMed for any studies.

Good luck,

Jelly