Anyone starting Chemo in Feb?
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Good morning everyone!
Planning a bit of a lazy day today. It has rained for the last two days like you wouldn’t believe. We got about half our annual rainfall! Ok, that’s only between 3-5 inches (yes that’s per year), but when it comes down like that with 2 or more inches in a short time, that’s when you see on the news that it’s “flooding” in Phoenix. That just means that we got enough rain to make the water flow thru natural rivers and washes that are normally dry. A lot of metropolitan Phoenix is built in or along these natural washes so it can be challenging getting around. Plus, we get so little rain that the real “gulley-washers” cause the oil and such from vehicles that build up on the roadways to become slick as ice. Always good for a laugh tho, as every time we get more than a sprinkle, it’s the lead story for about 20 minutes on the news.
Anyway, going to finish the family Christmas cards, watch some football and a few movies that we rented and didn’t get to yesterday.
SammieKay – I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of your niece. I know even when it’s expected, it’s never easy. I’m keeping you and yours in my thoughts and prayers.
Hillary – Re: Christmas Card exchange - I have everyone’s address from the SP game. So I’ll be happy to PM the info of only those who want to participate. Have you received any takers?
Twink – Wow! Dallas?! When will you know for sure? Also, on the aloe, if you buy lotion, keep it in the fridge. It will feel wonderful!
Leah – I tested negative too. I was really surprised, so I know exactly what you mean. As for business travel, I spent much of ’05 on the road. Got to where I hated it. I took a different position within our group where my longest trip was my commute to/from work; which turned into my promotion. I don’t miss the travel a bit. Funny too, working for an airline, our vacations since then have been road trips, and not by air!
Terry – Do the flu like symptoms occur after every tx? Is there anything they can do for that? Hope it has passed and that you’re enjoying your weekend.
Catherine – Taking the van to Houston sounds fun! We’re kicking around taking the 5th wheel to the mountains to spend Christmas week with DH’s nephew and fiancée. She has a large family there and we’ve kind of become part of the extended family. They do a really fun and whacky gift exchange, so we need to decide soon!
Phyl – Feel like I haven’t seen ya in ages! Wishing you the best on Wednesday. Very nice that you’ll have wireless! So, keep us posted!!
Well, time for one more cup of coffee before facing the day. ((Hugs)) to all and have a great day!
Carynn0 -
Well, the weekend is over. I managed to get the decorating done...everything but the 9 ft tree for the family room. I usually wait on that ...the woodburner in there makes everything so dusty the tree would have major cobweb problems if I put it up already.
Sammie Kaye, I am so sorry to hear your niece has passed. I guess we feel a connection to her. Hopefully it was peaceful. Did she have children? How is your brother doing? I know how hard losing my brother was on my Mom. She never really got "over" it.
I had to use one of my vacation days on Friday for my Herceptin after effects, so now I only have 2 days to try to make a dent in shopping etc. I normally take a whole week off to shop, wrap, decorate. Then I can go back to work without a worry. One of the benefits of seniority and having 30 years in. But, alas, not this year. Sometimes I think I should have taken a medical leave toward the end of chemo, instead of using up vacation time. I might not be feeling so burned out now. But a new year in soon here and it will be a fresh start!
Phyl, hope your surgery goes well...will be thinking of you.
Catherine....you better get shopping so your family gets their packages in time! I hate being crunched for time.
Hillary....will pm you.
Twink, how is the radiation going? Slather on the aloe. It really does help.
I keep wondering where our Marsha is. Not like her to be so quiet.
And I also think about those who don't post....like Tink with her little boy and new daughter. Hopefully her chemo is done and she is feeling better and enjoying the holidays with the children.
Well...I was going to do a little online shopping, so will get going.
It is pouring rain and is freezing out. Both DDs are out #1 at her boyfriends and #2 at work. Worry about them driving. DS#1 is out coyote hunting - believe it our not! He is nuts sometimes.
I changed my avatar so you could see me with the kids, but it is a little too small, but they are my pride and joy. Might have to change it to my and DH...then you could see my "stylish" hairdo!
Have a great week.
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Hello, All....
Reporting in from Norwalk OH, which is right near Sandusky. I have been having a good time training, but it again is the eating alone, being alone after work that feels not so good. I have eaten two nights at Panera Bread, so that is good. Tonight I brought my laptop, as they have free wireless. I suppose I could go Christmas shopping, but I am so tired, I think I will just sit here until it is reasonable hour to go back and go to sleep.
I am looking forward to the week in Florida. I do have to say, I love my new haircut! I was very unhappy with the first cut which took out all the bulk but left all the length. I called her, went back and said "give me a Halle Berry (when she wore it short) kind of cut". Oh my gosh... it looks fabulous! I am delighted with it! If I do say so myself, I look great! So that has helped enormously as I meet all these new people!
I have some other issues- like some nutcase has been calling my cell phone a hundred times/day and just breathing. I finally got to the point where I wasn't answering- just hitting ignore on my cell. But then he left me a voice mail at 1 a.m. the other morning, and I was terrified. I hate the fact that someone enjoys terrifying me. I have never said anything to him, but I will probably have to change my number. This whole thing disgusts me, and the power he has to terrorize me disgusts me even more.
Well almost the weekend. I fly from Ohio to Minneapolis for the weekend, and then are there all week. I am counting the days until I can go home and be in my own bed...
Love you all.
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I only have a couple of minutes...
I have been keeping up with the posts and wish I could just take a long break and post. My head is just spinning right now from all the holiday frenzy.
Can't wait to see the fabulous new cut Leah! How awful about the freak phone calls. It sounds like you will have to change your # to stop that...what a pia.
I want to be in charge of one "special" night in Florida. It would be great to coordinate it on a night that most of us will be there, since some of us are not staying the whole week. I have not made my airline ressies yet. I really need to get that done!
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Hi everyone. Only time for a quick flyby.
We've been very busy at work, and of course with the holidays coming, busy at home. I just looked at the calendar, and we have the company Christmas Party on the 13th, dinner with friends on the 14th, a Christmas Party on the 15th, and we're going to a concert on the 16th. (Shh, somewhere right in there is my birthday too!) Sheesh, no wonder I still have a problem with fatigue!
Leah, that's awful about the phone calls. I hope the guy gets a life soon and quits calling. I want to see your new do too!
Melanie - Same here. I've been trying to read and catch up.
What did we decide on Christmas cards? Is it too late to start?
It's earlier than usual, but I'm off to bed. Just wanted to stop by, say good-night and that I'm thinking of you all.
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Hi!
I don't think that it's too late to send out cards. I got snail mail addresses from Terry, Phyl, and SammieKay. I'm going to pick up my Xmas cards tomorrow, so I thought I'd wait till this weekend to see who else wants to play!
On another note, what, if anything, are folks planning for their one year cancerversary? Mine is Dec.15th, the date of my mammogram, US, and FNA that confirmed my cancer diagnosis. I'm going to be at a surprise birthday party for a friend's husband. Only a few folks there will know about my past year.
Hugs,
Hillary0 -
Okey doke, Hillary! I sent you a PM.
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what day should our "cancerversary" be? I can choose between November 16 - mammo, Dec 6 - biopsy or Dec 8 - the "phone call"
Leah....can you report the calls to your wireless provider??? Does his number come up on your screen....I would look into it. Why should YOU have to change your number and give up your freedom....But alas, you are probably right...he is such a jerk.
I was just checking in. I am also in a frenzy. I did get my family cards mailed along with DDs graduation announcements from Penn State....2 weeks...hurray!
Thinking of all of you....
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Hi all, sounds like everyone is in the "Christmas frenzy".
I took my housekeeper to Hobby Lobby today. I think I bought more than she did. I realized I needed wrap,ribbon and containers for my "famous peanut brittle" for gifts. I was standing at the front of the store and looking back at the whole store, so much stuff! I actually had the crazy thought that this must be what hell looks like, just oceans of stuff. LOL . Now you know how weird I can be.
The fever jumped up today to 101.3. My husband wants me to call the oncologist at MD Anderson. It has been 6 weeks now. But I don't want anyone to find anything else wrong with me. I just want to get through the final surgery and see if the fever will go away on its on. He thinks I am putting my head in the sand. I just want to feel "normal" again. I am sure you guys understand this better than anyone. Do we have to have a cancerversary? I don't want the abominable cancer to have any recognition. Sounds kind of bitter huh?
Well it is so good to hear from all of you.
Congratulations Terry on the college grad! That is quite an accomplishment. Send her my congratulations.
Hugs and warm thoughts to all. Geez Leah, hate to think of you eating alone in a strange place. Wish I could wiggle my nose and be there with you and we could kick some serious "cell phone pervert" butt.
Sammie Kay
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Hi all...LEAH pics pics pics! So sorry about the pervert pestering you...i'm sure thats wearing you down worrying about it.
TERRY>congrats on the college grad, so that makes two of us with DD's graduating this year! I can't remember any of the dates that threw me into this cancer mess..I'd have to go back to my saved emails to family to find the exact dates. Guess I don't want to remember?
Am excited, got a call from our Marine son and he's going to be home for xmas and new years. He got stuck in San Diego after his knee surgery Nov 6th.
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Hi All
Just a quick note to say I am still here. Haven't been able to get to the computer in over a week. Wedding preparations are filling my days it seems. Leah I hope the creep stops calling that is really frightening.
Have had my mammogram and check up - ooh what a relief that all was well. The BS said that she thinks it is the hardest appointment we have to face.
The joy was tempered by the fact I had just heard that my brother had a heart attack the previous night, and it was just two week after he had been operated on for prostate cancer. This year can't end quick enough.
Had all my staff from school here for a BBQ which was great. I do miss them and will be glad to be back at school next year.
I must do my Christmas cards this weekend. Think I was putting off doing them until I had good news for people.
Have a busy day today trying to get more furniture into our garage. Erin, DD2 is moving back to Edinburgh after her wedding and so needs to sort out her flat, so quess who has to store the stuff?!!!
Hope you all have a great weekend.
Alyson
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Leahrc,
I, too, was being pestered with similar phonecalls to my home phone. This had actually gone on intermittently for a couple of years, and I had never got it looked after because I was travelling so much. But when I was dx I decided to "clean house" of as many negative things in my life as possible, before surgery and tx. So I reported this weirdo to the police. I had been able to successfully trace his (ID blocked) calls for months so the police, through the local telco, would be able to locate this person. Well, I had good faith that after reporting him and the call history to the police they would deal with it, but I guess they are busy catching "real" criminals and I never heard back from them. But I did hear back from the pervert. So I just spoke with him one night when he called to breathe at me. I told him very very firmly that I had reported him to the police, had traced his calls for months, and if he EVER called me again he was going to have a VERY BIG problem on his hands. At the end I told him "so you're NEVER going to call me again, right?" he agreed. We left it at that. That was about a month ago. So far so good. It is a relief that I can get a decent night's sleep now that I am dealing with tx.
Good luck!
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Friday evening...
It is snowing outside, softly... in the dark... magical...
Hello dearest sisters... hard to find time to come say hi... I am more the "evening" type as you may have noticed...
The house smells wonderful from big white lilies making up a huge bouquet I got yesterday from DH's kids for my birthday (yes... 55 for real now). Carynn, we are both December babies... Sending you my best wishes for the upcoming celebrations...
Leah, I am happy for you that you found a hairdresser who understood you and made you feel good... I am not there yet... keep having dreams of curly hair (does anybody else have "hair" dreams while asleep??), but have to be content with sticks and cowlicks for now... Now, today I got mascara and pencils (for around the eyes) and the thing to curl eyelashes... I think I want to first check whether I have lashes (the mascara should help identify them...) and second I may be a bit tired of my boyish look... so, since we have friends coming over this Sunday, I'll try to look more "girly"... DH does not like makeup too much, hopefully he won't even notice).
Leah, do you have Marsha's phone? Did you talk to her recently? This has been weeks now since she came say hi... I worry a lot... I still hope she is on a beach somewhere, having fun...
Marsha, if you read posts... please, sweetie, let us know how you are doing...
Twink... where are you? How are you doing? I miss you...
SammieKay, you have a terrific sense of humour... I bet you are adorable when you wingle your nose... Wishing you to get your temperature down to normal-normal, without these ups and down... there must be a reason... keep us posted, OK?
Hillary, Terry, Melanie... thinking of you and wishing you a lovely week-end, preparing the holidays with some comfort foods and nice music... I have been cooking more (I always enjoy cooking in the winter)... for Sunday I am planning on some "foie gras" (brought from France by a friend) on toast (a brioche with orange peel in it, that DH discovered at WF and should be an interesting combination), the main dish will be duck cassoulet (comfort food...) which I'll prepare tomorrow, and I'll fix a chocolate mousse (real dark with a shot of Glenfidish... no butter, only eggs). I want to thank good friends for having be so helpful and supportive this past year.
We will get a small Xmas tree tomorrow if it is "driveable" in the snow...
Cancerversaries... I do not have a clue about the dates to consider: I discovered my lump (small sweet pea) end of Dec. 2005, dx Dec 18th 2006 (yes... a year later), surgery Jan10, 2007... now, to me, that's the day I got rid of the cancer...
We had some comforting news today regarding DH's heart: normal.
He had a session with a physical therapist and has exercises to do at home for balance (I can't do them either, I need to hold on something for not falling... a friend of mine in France tried to do them while we were on the phone, and could not stand 10 seconds without leaning either... so... DH is not alone...
...)Well... I just wanted to tell you that you are all always in my thoughts and send you warm hugs.
Till next time...
Catherine
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How delightful to hear from you, dear Catherine. Brings back memories, about 3 years ago, DH and I spent several days in the mountains in Denver at Estes Park. It snowed and we had a fire in the fireplace. It was so cozy.
Now, I am getting worried about Marsha. Where are you, Marsha? Please let us hear.
I am feeling very good tonight. Still run around 99.8 temp. I am going on the assumption that the expanders are the culprit. After I have them removed and the implants placed on Dec. 27th, if I still have fever, then I will pursue it. I have had a full workup by my internist and then the urologist, so I am just letting it go for now.
I bought all the ingredients for making bunches of peanut brittle, so let the fun begin LOL.
Hope everyone is having a great start to their weekend. I am going to bed with my book and read for awhile. We havH warm humid weather here. I envy Catherine and her lovely snow. I hope we cool off soon. We have 80's predicted until next Tues. and then maybe a low of 55, oh wow! LOL. It can be nice when one has to be out and about, not to fight a cold, wet wind.
Hugs and happy times to all. Love, Sammie Kay
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Hello my FCC sisters.
I've been reading but not posting much. We had snow here last night too...everything is white. It's funny, even after so many years in California without snow, the sight of the white covered vista brings back deep feelings of warmth and family and Christmas time...
I had my 13th rad Tx yesterday. My skin is still holding up, just a little pink and sensitive. I am using the aloe gel three or more times daily and it does feel good (though a little gooey). I've taken to wearing loose cotton camis under my clothing and for sleeping in. Overall, I don't feel bad at all. I'm not tired or, not very tired... I am working 12+ hour days so ...
Bolus...the theory is that there's still breast tissue beneath the skin (I had a skin sparing mast), even though the mound is mostly implant. I do hope this process doesn't completely ruin the implants. So far, no noticeable effect but the docs have said that the scar tissue will form after the Tx ends so if it's going to present a problem that will be later.
Hugs all....I have to get a few work related tasks done this morning. This past week was nuts and I have to get organized for a few meetings next week... agenda, and basic stuff. Looks like I'll be moving to Dallas sometime before the start of this next school year. Just awaiting the final offer at work.
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Leah ...I was going to make a bad joke about my phone calls to you, then thought better of it. It's so easy to catch these nutcases now...the phone companies have the ability to track them down. We had an incident with one of the teenager's friends making prank calls. Didn't take long to pin down, with the help of the phone company, exactly who it was and to deal with it. Good luck with that.
Catherine, it so nice to hear that your DH' heart is fine. I can't imagine what I'd do if I had to worry about my husband's health this year.
Carynn, thanks for the cool aloe tip. I tried that last night and it did feel wonderful. Dallas...hmmm. On the bright side, I think it'll be a better city to live close to. I do like NYC and Philly but I don't get there that often and the local area is quite bereft of culture, restaurants, entertainment...
Alyson, I do hope your brother makes a full recovery. What was it the queen said? Annus Horribilus...yes. The anniversary of my diagnosis is coming up in January, although the lump was found in October. What a year.
Hillary, I PM'd you my address. Lunch would be nice if we could squeeze one in before the end of the year. Just let me know. I'll probably go to KofP shopping next weekend.
Oh Jan, what good news about your son. How nice it'll be for you and your family to have him there for the holiday season.
Melanie...of course, you can be in charge of one special night in Fl. I look forward to doing little...
Let me know when you're ready to book the place. PM the details.Terry...DD graduating! Wow, that's such an exciting milesone. Congratulations to her. My big milestone recently was getting my DD her first car. A new Honda Fit...she's thrilled and now quite a bit more independent than before.
SammieKay, I wish that dang fever would just go away. Must wear you down, but, I agree, the implants seem suspect. Peanut Brittle -- ooh, my favorite. I don't expect to be doing any holiday baking or candy making this year. As with last year, I simply haven't got the spirit. We'll be lucky to get a tree up.
I'm sure I missed somebody but time to pour that second coffee and get to work. Rehugs.
t
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Catherine, I enjoyed your description of the snow. New snow is so pretty...especially on Christmas morning.
Sammie; I too am glad to hear the fever is down.
Twink; I think you will like Dallas. I reallly like the Southlake area. It has grown quickly and everything is new.
It has been a really rough few days. One of my secretaries who has been with us since she was 19 (12 years), lost her 7 week old little boy. The funeral was today. It has been just heartbreaking. She has 2 children and is such an amazing mommy. Two of the baby's nurses and one doctor made the long drive to be there today. To me, it showed how much they truly cared about the family. It is always so humbling to go the Children's Hospital and see those little ones fighting courageous battles with injury and illnesses. And those doctors and nurses that care so much for the families.
Thinking of you all...
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Morning all - just a Sunday drive-by post for me. After 13 hours of surgery Wednesday, I'm gearing up to go home tomorrow. I do have boobies for Christmas, albeit in the form of mounds but I'd do it again in a heartbeat. I hear Christmas music in the hallway, see freezing rain out my window and visions of sugarplums dancing in my head so I believe it's time to go night-night for a bit.
Hugs to all of you.
Phyl
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Good Sunday Afternoon all (and Happy Monday, Alyson)!
Terry - Interesting question.
On Lance Armstrong's site, he says Survivor-ship begins on the day one is diagnosed (as in that's when we put the gloves on and come out fighting), but I suppose that they are all "anniversary" days. As I gear up for our Christmas party this year, it struck me that it will be a year to the day from last years party. I had scored the ever-illusive Saturday mammo appointment the morning of the party. When they said lets do an ultra sound on this; I knew it wasn't just a cyst like I had thought. I spent some time talking about it at the party that night with my best friend and another friend at the party who just had a cyst removed. I do remember very clearly that I wasn't too afraid. I had found BCO that afternoon, starting doing research, and was ready to come out swinging. Although I naively thought / hoped I would just need a lumpectomy and radiation. I had the biopsy soon after, and the official diagnosis on 1/27. But, that's what makes us the FCC! Since we're all at that one year date, I'm sure we are all having pretty similar musings. BTW...big congrats to DD on graduating Penn State. You must be so proud!SammieKay - A 6 week fever CANNOT be a good thing! I don't remember, did they have you on anything for it? I think you should call the Onc, or at least your PCP. I hope you feel good soon!
Wild/Jan - I know you've been so busy! Probably even more know getting ready for James' return. Do you have his arrival date yet? Be sure and give him a hug from all of us!
Alyson - Happy Monday! When is the wedding again? I thought I remembered that it's pretty soon! I had to nod my head in agreement with you about this year ending! At DH's Mom's 100th birthday party, someone started everyone on saying what they thought the best years of their life so far were. DH and I said at the same time, we know which one was the worst! I'm very sorry to hear about your brother. I hope the attack was minor and wish him the speediest of recoveries.
Catherine - That's right, I remember that we're both December babies!
Happy Birthday! My brother is 21 years younger than I, but also a December baby. His birthday is 3 days after mine.
So glad to hear that your DH got good news on his heart test. I'm sure that's a big relief!Twink - Wow! So Dallas is official? I'm sure you feel that you just got settled in PA. It would be almost impossible to pry me out of AZ (trust me, DH has tried); but I've always liked Texas. I'm sure the kids are devastated, but you know, if you look back to when we were kids, we didn't have the Internet, ichat, Instant Messaging, etc. It definitely will help them maintain their friendships. (I know, small comfort if you're 16 or 17 and feel like you have to start over!) BTW...glad you tried the aloe. My chemo buddy at work is who turned me on to that!
Melanie - ((Hugs)). I'm so sorry to hear about your secretary's loss. How tragic. We lost two friends in two weeks last month. How are you? Hope you and yours are well.
Phyl - 13 hours for the surgery! Oh my! You sound great! That is so cool that you have internet access in your room! Pays to know someone.
Please check in when you get home and let us know how your are!Well, going to go finish watching my Raiders lose. Sigh...we're re-building; that's my story and I'm sticking to it!
Take care everyone, enjoy your weekend.
(((Hugs)))
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Greetings on a cold, dreary Monday afternoon in central PA. Been trying to more thoroughly catch up on posts.
Sorry to be late for the birthday greeting but I hope you had a wonderful birthday Catherine. I'm sure DH's good heart news was a pleasant gift. I'll leave 55 behind in April.
Twink - I must make a solid effort to get to a lunch with you and Hillary in Phila before you move - especially since Hill won't be in Florida.
Leah - I absolutely can't wait to see pics of your new haircut. I loved Halle's hair when it was short-short. I'll bet you look terrific. I'd love to do something along that line - don't know what I want yet. DH is still fighting me on the hair color and he's been so sweet thru all this that I'm hoping I can find a way to keep the look he loves but to find a way to give me a look I love too.
Sammie - I think I asked you this before and I may have missed a response - were you able to find any furniture to your liking?
Hugs to everyone else - Alyson, Jan, Terry, Carynn, Melanie, Karen, Hillary.
I've got a really big hug waiting for you too Marsha. I'm so looking forward to meeting you!
I'm going to take advantage of some of this 'down time' to do my Christmas cards and all those other holiday tasks I seem to put off till the last minute. I'm hosting the family Christmas dinner this Sunday - we're not a particularly large family any more which I guess makes it even more special. I pretty much cleaned the house last weekend since I figured I wouldn't be jumping thru hoops yet this week (maybe next). A few little things to do but I'm going to count on others to do most of the food prep.
I've been thinking about all of you more than usual over the past month and I'm sure it will continue till we have all completed our diagnosis anniversaries. I've always loved the holiday season but this year probably more than any other. When I think about the positive outcomes of this experience, you all are and always will be the first thing to come to mind. That being said, I hope you all have the most fabulous Christmas you could possibly have.
Hugs to all!
Phyl
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Greetings Ladies,
So sorry to hear the health scares and blues that you all have been experiencing. I have to say that I don't feel quite as festive myself this year and this is my favorite time of year!!!
But I gave myself a kick in the butt today and reminded myself that I should be thankful to be here. I have had a bad headache for 3 days now .... That hasn't been helping.
I was just in Lake Placid NY at a hockey tournament with my family and we all had a great time. Lots of snow:)
I hope that everyones on-going tests all show great, healthy results.
Stay positive ladies.... Remember how up beat we were in the beginning:) Let's get that back................. Life is for living, even with the aches and pains. I sympathize....
Cheers,
Jel.
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Bonsoir... dearest sisters
Just a quick post to ask Jan and whoever among you is in the path of the ice storm... I worry sick about you and your DH, Janet, and wonder how the lovely horses are doing (your pics are wonderful). I know Carynn and Marsha should be doing fine...
but it's not clear what's next.Here just lovely snow for now... I have been doing a lot of shovelling (for fun and exercise), including clearing a path all the way to the bus stop (4 houses down... no big deal, and not that thick, yet) so my sweet DH can walk without difficulty to hop on the bus which takes him to the rail system that goes to the college campus...
I go around with my musk-rat Russian shapka-ushanka (with flaps over the ears), looking (almost) the same as 31-32 years ago in the same outfit... it is so warm and comfy...
Tomorrow is my 18th (out of 18) avastin IV... I am going there with less enthusiasm after reading the thread on Avastin and FDA rejecting it for BC... not enough benefits vs risks?? and pretty soon, I'll have to ask about switching to an AI... Tamoxifen is bad enough... I wonder whether the SE's will be as bad (really achy joints)... in the meantime, let's keep moving... need to go check the cooking for dinner...
Please check in to say you are safe and not going through too much hardship... hope you have wood burning stoves or fireplaces to keep you warm...
Thinking of you all...
Hugs,
Catherine
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Saw the news this morning about the snow storm. Do hope everyone is safe and well. Cannot imagine being without power for days in conditions like that.
Best of luck for tomorrow Catherine another milestone reached
Alyson
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Hi dear sisters,
I, too, am worried about those in the path of the ice storm, especially Jan in OK. I hope and pray everyone is safe and well.
Phyl, yes I did find the furniture I wanted. Some crazy deal about the factory changing the roll of leather and having a shut down for a couple of weeks. Sounds strange to me. But being in the mild,patient mindset I am in these days, I can wait until mid Jan. for delivery. The couch is 96 in. long and splits in the middle to make 2 /48 inch recliners. It is heavenly. My husband is 6'6" and about 270, so we will enjoy being able to sit together. When it is tipped all the way back it is like a bed. We may sleep in the living room from now on. LOL. The loveseat is 84 in. long and it makes 2 recliners also.
I am a little "whiney" today. I had my 4 tats yesterday. Two on the boobs for the areolas and one on each lateral abdomen for the nipples. My incisions from the construction done on the 29th of Nov. are still red and itchy. I think I am becoming latex sensitive. I wore the bra the ps gave me all day Sunday and it really irritated the incisions. I worked today and have 4 big dressings over the tatoos. I am just tired of having all the little irritations. On the 27th of Dec.we exchange the expanders for silicone high profile breast implants, 620 cc and the nipple reconstruction will be done while I am under. I can hear the jokes going on while I am sleeping. My anesthesiologist and all the surgery crews are friends of mine. My ps in throwing in a little fat removal as a bonus. I just want to be finished. Now the opthomologist says I need my cataracts(surely I am too young for those, LOL) removed. The gi docs say I need a colonoscopy, it's been 6 years. I swear getting old isn't for sissys.
I hate to tell you Catherine, but my joints really hurt with Arimidex. My sister-in-law takes it and doesn't complain too much, so maybe you will be one of the lucky ones that doesn't have too much joint pain. Right now my pinky on my left hand is hurting as I type, so I believe I will say goodnight. I am working again tomorrow, so need to get to bed.
Hugs and love to all. Do stay warm and safe all of you sweet girls.
Sammie Kay
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Sammie - sent you a pm.
Phyl
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Hillary, I had pm'd you... I would love to have everybody's address if it is ok... Carynn, what do you think?
The French étiquette will apply here: we are given until Jan. 31st to send our best wishes...
Hope you are all OK... Leah, where are you? Twink?? Marsha??????
Love to all,
Catherine
(done with the tx!! had my 18th and LAST avastin today... for what it is worth... Que sera... sera...)
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Good news -- I do not have bone mets. Neither my onc or I thought it likely, but he wanted to get my severe hip pain checked out. I'm not on AI or tamoxifen, so it couldn't be from them. I just have some arthritis in my lower back, and the hips look fine.
Catherine -- I pm'd you the list of addresses. They were also sent to Carynn, SammieKay, Terry, Phyl, Twilah, and Alyson. Let me know if you didn't get a pm. Also, if anyone is still interested in exchanging cards, let us know! I sent my cards out on Saturday, so some of you should be getting them soon!
I hope that those out in the middle of the country are surviving the ice storm. We're expecting a mild version on Thursday and then another hit on Saturday and Sunday.
Phyl -- It would be great to have lunch with you and Twilah sometime soon. Yes, I won't be able to make it to Florida. I have to take off an earlier 4 day weekend and a later full week when my ds doesn't have skill. My time-off doesn't extend to non-kid-related vacations.
SammieKay -- I be you can't wait for the exchange surgery! What a present ... brings new meaning to the song, "All I want for christmas are my two front boobs!:
Gotta run and put ds to bed ...
Hugs to all,
Hillary0 -
Good morning everybody. I'm not feeling that talkative lately but I've been reading your posts and keeping up with what's going on. Work continues to be very busy which is a mixed blessing I suppose. Doesn't leave me much time to think about anything too deeply. December is a tough month for me. My mother's birthday was last week and my sister's is coming up. Both have been gone for a couple of years now but I can't help but reflect on them at this time of year.
Word of the Texas move is still pending so I feel a little unsettled on that front yet. I was hoping we'd have word this week but it looks as though announcements have been delayed again. I am starting to look at real estate in the area and am optimistic that we'll be able to find a nice home. The prospect of another big move is not very exciting but I know the drill at least.
16th radiation treatment took place yesterday. I'm very pink and a little tender, especially under my arm. I am using the aloe 3 or more times daily. I'm also taking curcumin which is supposed to help. I have no idea if any of these 'preventative' measures are effective but, of course, as with the nioxin and revitalash, I'm reluctant to stop. I've gained a few pounds and am not very happy about that but have decided to work on my weight after the holidays. Likewise, I'm gearing up for restarting at the gym soon...over the holidays if I feel up to it.
Hillary...I'm glad that worry has been eliminated for now. I suppose we'll all worry forever but I do understand the worries become less central to day-to-day thoughts with time. I worry, when I'm laying in bed trying to fall asleep... my last thoughts are always about BC and mets. Lately, the news around BCO has been so sad. It's impossible to not think that these stories could be, might be, mine.
I hope to get at my holiday tasks this weekend...cards, tree, decorating....even shopping. I haven't bought a single present so I have plenty of work lined up for the weekend.
SammieKay, what a Christmas gift. Won't it be nice to have all of this behind you and get on with life? I can't wait. January 9th is my last rad Tx, assuming I go for the full 33. Nipples (and a few corrections) sometime early in the new year hopefully. I am so ready for this to be over.
Hugs to everybody else, I haven't the energy to keep writing right now...
t
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Hello everyone. I apologize for causing any worry from my being absent. I can't seem to find a place where I fit in. Everyone on BCO had cancer and I need to not hear about it all the time whereas everyone in real life has NOT had cancer and I feel like an oddball! We just got back from our yearly Jamaica trip with friends (10 of us) and my God, there was boobs and cleavage everywhere. I am so self conscious about my body any more and the last thing I want to do is draw attention to myself. I spent the entire week worrying with swimsuits and the like. I had a good time but on the flip side, I didn't. I know that doesn't make sense and my friends kept sayng you look great, nothing is showing, but my scars are not just on the body but in my mind as well. Actually the scar in my mind is much bigger and nastier looking than the physical.
I hate this disease. It has taken a very self confident, fun person and turned her into the wall flower of the group. I'm suppose to be doing a threatre show, with rehersal starting soon and I'm honestly thinking about backing out. The fuckhead of a director switched the show we were going to do and now wants me to play a 28 year old stripper who spends half the show in her bra and panties.
WOW, see why I have stayed away?? I am having a hard time with this. Just didn't want you guys to worry. I didn't read back past this page and this is the first time I've been to BCO in ages. I'm hoping this is just the first year blues or something! Love you guys, Marsha
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Marsha, sweetie... here you are!!! My intuitions were right: you were on a beach somewhere far away... Hopefully, you could use the opportunity to rest plenty, regain strength and replenish your vitamin D
... Could you swim, or you were not supposed to "soak" your scars in salt water? That would be the frustrating part, not to be able to frolic in the crystal clear waters... How do you feel since your surgery? The healing is OK? Your doggies stayed home?We all share what you wrote: here, it is mostly cancer stuff (but not only... a lot of caring and friendship), and outside it is not so clear-cut (so many people are walking around and we do not have the faintest idea of the predicaments in their lives). Cancer is bad, but there are so many terrible things out there that can also completely mess up your life... everything is relative, I guess.
As Twink writes, the news have been so sad on BCO these last 3-4 months that it does not help shaking off the Xmas blues. Yesterday, first time in 10 months, I had a melt down as I was talking with the clinical research nurse while getting my last tx... I was taken by surprise myself, and quite embarrassed, but I felt incapable of not crying (I had watched a fairly touching Indian movie the night before -- The Namesake, very worth watching -- which left me quite teary before going to bed; and waiting for the IV, I was reading short stories by Anna Gavalda, an author I really like, and one was so poignant... here I went again... In past years I would have attributed the phenomenon to being about to have my periods... but now... I guess it is the "last tx syndrom" and the doubts from all the contradictory info we read about everything these days... Curiously enough I am, otherwise, in very good spirits, living completely normally (even though I cannot forget about the fact that I am not the same). I do not even mind continuing my medical translation work in oncology related fields...
And yet, the upcoming new year can only be easier, you would think... we went through so much, and all of you with reconstruction and rads even more so...
This thread to me is "home" as opposed to all the other places (The Wagon thing, Gina's site, etc.) because that's where belong the wonderful women I met since last february...
Welcome home, Marsha... and come visit more often to chat, vent, scream... whatever... Hope this FH of a director will drop his project (surely there are other things of interest for the theater stage than yet another stripper story...).
Big hugs to you (could you pm your address?)
A nice day to all of you. Twink, nice to see your post... I am struggling with the weight gain, too (gained 4 pounds since February), which are all on my belly and waist...
and I feel like cooking (but not "steam" cooking...)... Will all your kids be home with you for Xmas?Leah, how was the concert?
Janet (the wild one)... glad to know you got power back and that the ice is melting: what a tragedy, though... for so many families. Take care dear Jan.
Sammie Kay: I went to Victoria in 1986, I was the interpreter (Russian-English) for a group of Russian (Soviet) engineers and hot shots (apparatchiki) visiting the Union Carbide refinery there... it was very interesting, but I thought my last hour had arrived because we landed in the fog (the pilot had to try several times, it was a small plane from Houston, we were terrified... I was green). I still have a cook book we were given then by the Chamber of Commerce of Victoria... Have a nice day, dear friend.
Well, time to go "do" things... like wrapping things to ship... hello...
Hugs to all,
Catherine
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