Best Of
Re: How long have you been Stage IV?
@eddiej
A dog is wonderful—especially when it’s seen as a source of good omen—and I believe it can make a big difference in improving one’s psychological well-being.
My daughter has two cats, but cats are different from dogs; they’re more independent and don’t give that warm feeling of sitting in your lap or clinging to you the way dogs do.
I’ve always wanted to have a dog. The last dog I had was in my childhood, and it died tragically, which has left me sad to this day.
I believe that having a pet gives you the feeling that you’re caring for someone, and it helps ease the loneliness that comes with illness.
Re: Stage IV MBC Fitness
I've had more fatigue than usual this month, though I think it may be the struggle with the ice, snow, and relentless dreariness outdoors. I keep thinking I should hop on a plane and go south for a bit of sun. But I keep on keeping on, since I do think that exercise is very protective against cancer spread, at least I hope so. I hope the holiday season is kind to everyone. We are a mixed Jewish/Christian household with some Buddhism thrown in so we get the best of all worlds.
Re: How has normal, day-to-day life changed for you after diagnosis? Share your “different normal.”
@katg Thank you so much for sharing this, katg. Finishing treatment—especially for a second diagnosis—can bring such a mix of relief, exhaustion, and uncertainty, and everything you’re describing is completely valid. That “different different normal” is real, and it takes time to find your footing again- to say the least.
We're lad you have a few steady anchors in your days, and that you’re giving yourself support through therapy and small moments of hope. The bone pain, hot flashes, and deep fatigue are a heavy load to carry, and you’re not alone with any of it.
We’re here with you as you rebuild strength at your own pace. Be gentle with yourself—you’ve come through so much, and your progress truly matters. 💗
@kotchaj Thank you for opening your heart here, kotchaj. Four years out and still navigating brain fog, muscle weakness, and the emotional weight of it all is something so many can relate to, and it takes courage to say it out loud. And… you're not alone!
You’ve carried an incredible amount—major treatment, years on Verzenio, a cross-country move, a demanding job—yet you’re still finding ways to focus on living, even planning a vacation. That’s strength, even on the days when you’re simply tired and getting through however you can.
It makes sense that your perspective on the future has shifted, and you’re not alone in that feeling either. We’re here to walk alongside you as you keep finding moments of meaning, joy, and rest. You deserve gentleness and support every step of the way. Gentle hugs!!
Re: Can we have a forum for "older" people with bc?
Wow! A lot of posts!
Harley, what a fantastic cruise!
Temperature got down to -12 Sunday morning. We will be having highs of +39 tomorrow and Thursday.
My throat was sore and dry yesterday morning. Relative humidity was in the high teens. I got a kettle started on the stove. Then my nose ran like tryouts for the Olympics, to the point I broke out a COVID test. Plus a nasty headache. Feeling better now, with humidity at 60.
My housework helper is going to be here at noon to help me put plastic on the windows. I am dedicated to the proposition that natural light is healthier than wasting electricity during the daytime. I did have my sunlight window shade closed the past two days, but rejoiced when I opened it.
I remembered the candles for my Advent wreath this year. My housework helper found the Christmas tree, I didn't throw it away last year after all. I think I need to find my Seasonal Affective Disorder light. Maybe double my vitamin D.
I think Bob would have a hard time adjusting to retirement. Can he cut his hours?
Taco, I have not seen Karen for months. She appears to have fallen off the Internet.
I have six more packages coming. I already have two. I went crazy shopping the sales at Amazon. Even bought a hand-held bidet. No need to feel embarrassed about it, it is only the two of us, and if I used it on Tippy, he would probably be delighted. Looks like they bundled them and are delivering most of them on Wednesday.
I am worried about my naturalized citizen African friends in the Twin Cities.
mcbaker
Re: My Husband, My Life, My Love, My Family, My Cancer
Just letting you know I am still here. I read every day, and Like, Care, comment as needed. Nothing new in my cancer world. Scans and slight med change was in November- I posted on here and updated my profile. Just keep on keeping on. Some days better than others. And the mental aspect of this disease still can be a problem. I miss my old life. But I am grateful for what I do have.
Re: Stage IV MBC Fitness
Tougholdcrow. I have been the same way. I thought it was me. This month has been I have just been so tired. I dont want to do anything. I feel like I need a break from the meds. Did shovel 6"s of snow yesterday. I have energy I just feel cold and tired. 18⁰ this morning he in southern PA. So not ready for Christmas. Parties are all this week. Maybe they will help.
Some of it has been my husband. He hurt his back. Refused to see a dr. Walk around anrgy and short tempered. Waited until the pain was so bad I was ready to take him to the ER. He did go to an orthopedic urgent care who helped and sent him to pain management. It was a long 4 week of his ranting. Fortunately he has settled down. I did learn something though there is a well know hospital about 1/2 hour from our house that has a walk in center for injuries including back. There won't be a repeat of last month.
Tamoxifen side effects
Hi, I am a 69 year old diagnosed with Stage1 HER 2 + ductal carcinoma 4 years ago. Ive been taking Tamoxifen for 3 years post lumpectomy for removal of a lump less than 1 cm. Lymph node testing was negative. I completed Radiation, but no chemo was recommended. Genetic testing negative and no family history. I have Osteopenia that is stable since Parathyroidectomy 7 years ago to remove two benign tumors. Two of my 4 parathyroid glands were removed. In the past year I've developed joint pain and fatigue. Last month after having the combined Flu and Covid vaccines I developed severe chills and joint stiffness that kept me on the couch taking Ibuprofen and Tylenol for two days. Now, a month later, the joint pain and chills are still present and magnified after doing even light exercise. The exercise feels good at the time; swimming slowly 30 min, or rowing machine 20 min, or stationary bicycle 30 min. When I have lifted weights it is a light workout, careful not to fatigue my muscles followed by stretching. Joint ache and chills set in a few hours after exercise. I lie down for several hours after exercise when I can, and take Tylenol and Ibuprofen on days it is worse. I have discussed these issues with my Oncologist who recommends staying on the Tamoxifen. I am interested to hear your take on this addressing risk vs. benefits. I am not a candidate for Aromatase Inhibitors due to removal of two Parathyroid Glands.
brewerg
Diagnostic mammogram report
Good evening
My report stated suspicious grouped calcifications in the left breast at the 2oclock position 13cm from the nipple that are pleomorphic and suspicious. Should I be concerned?
quincy55
Re: My Husband, My Life, My Love, My Family, My Cancer
Irishlove, that candle lighting is such a beautiful ritual. Brought tears to my eyes to read that.
So many of us are struggling, and also trying to hold onto hope and grace. It's been three years since my husband passed, and some days I'm just not sure what I'm still here for. But keeping his memory alive, our shared memories, can be really beautiful too. If that's my only reason to be here, it's a pretty good one.
In pockets for all those getting scans, changing treatments, and anyone just feeling alone. 🕯
sf-cakes