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Anyone starting Chemo in Feb?

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Comments

  • NarberthMom
    NarberthMom Member Posts: 382
    edited January 2008



    Wintermoon, Guitargirl, and Cookie --



    This thread started a year ago ... in Feb 2007. We're all done with our treatment, but have stayed together as a group. There's a Feb 2008 group that started ... scroll further down to find it!



    That said, chemo is doable ... we all got through it. The best suggestions are:

    (1) drink lots and lots of fluids ... water, flavored water, tea, fruit juice

    (2) take your meds ... don't wait until you start to feel sick

    (3) if your meds don't work, talk to your team about changing them ... you don't have to suffer

    (4) eat small meals to keep your energy up and to avoid nausea



    For those taking a taxane (taxol or taxotere), take care of your hands and feet. Moisturize. Wear supportive shoes if you're going to be on your feet a lot.



    Feel free to ask us *chemo vetarans* any other questions.



    Hugs,

    Hillary

  • twink
    twink Member Posts: 550
    edited January 2008

    Cookie I PM'd you.

    Morning FCCers,

    A quick drive by posting a la Carynn.  Nothing much planned this weekend.. a little shopping a little organizing a little reading and resting... just what I like.  It's cold here and I feel it in my bones.  I am so ready for warm weather.  A few announcements were made at work yesterday, including my own... Chief Muckety-Muck I am and I'm heading for Dallas.  DH and I will be spending the week before Fl there to check out areas and homes.  Not ready to buy yet but to zero in on where we'll likely chose to live.  I won't list this house until the spring at the soonest.  Sigh.  I think I'll write a book on X-country moves...this will be #3 in less than 4 years.

  • twink
    twink Member Posts: 550
    edited January 2008
    Also, for those women starting Chemotherapy in February 2008 and checking in here (February 2007 Chemo Cruisers), here's a link to the 2008 thread:  http://community.breastcancer.org/topic/69/conversation/699067?page=1#idx_2
  • kissta
    kissta Member Posts: 1
    edited January 2008

    Hi Karen,

    Looks like I will be starting in mid Feb sometime. I have to go back in for surgery on the 29th to remove more breast tissue, the margins were to close for the Onc. I will also be getting a IV Port at the same time. I am grateful I only have to do 6 treatments every 21 days.

    I am in the process of getting together a nice little goodie bag for those trips. I have gotten a lot of input from others about good things to have on hand. There is so much to keep up with, and I'm glad I've heard from others who have been through all this.

    I'm there with you,

    Krista

  • CommandoBarbie
    CommandoBarbie Member Posts: 474
    edited January 2008

    Good morning all! I've missed you! Another 12 hour day yesterday, I was pooped! I have to put in a few hours from home this morning, but then I MIGHT be caught up enough to go back to "regular" days (if there is such a thing it IT!)

    This evening we are going to a "Block Party" for one of the Presidential Candidates. One of the PM's that works for me is one of the organizers. I haven't made up my mind yet, but these parties are usually fun. The candidate himself wont be there, but quite a few local political figures will be there. DH and I went to quite a few functions during the ‘04 elections. We're both political junkies and really enjoy the speeches and such. So, shaping up to be a busy day.

    I'm going back to read now and hope to catch up with you later today.

  • Primel
    Primel Member Posts: 652
    edited January 2008

    Twink: congrats are in order, I believe... how does your DH "adjust"? he has a transportable job, working on-line? And the children? They like adventures?

    If you like warm weather, Dallas should do (not as muggy as the South)... as we were crossing TX in our van recently, I noticed that there are lakes everywhere and boating is a big thing.  It probably means that there are lovely places by the water. There is a "La Madeleine" (French bakery with a nice interior decor... the first one was created in Dallas in the 80's.).  Years ago, we were still in Houston, I spent a couple of days in Dallas because I was the interpreter for a French endocrinologist who came to present his clinical study results on estrogen patches... so I saw a hospital or two, and that was it... then we flew to New-Orleans for another conference.  Let me know as soon as you find out you are transferred to Denver...!!Smile

    Have a blissful week-end... I finished a 3-week job yesterday and need to catch up with house things and get ready for a dinner tonight (well, at 6) organized in a French restaurant by the Colorado Translators Association... first time I will be going... I will meet quite a few colleagues I have been working with for over 15 years... I am very pleased to do that. I just wonder how I will "tame" my hair which is so straight and in all directions, I look like a simpleton... oh, well... this is not an interview for work...

    Thinking about everybody... will write more, before the next project hits (tuesday)... the year has started very actively... this is nice, I'd better work now to have time in the yard when the weather gets warmer... biking weather this week-end...

    Hugs to all... SammieKay how are you doing?  Alyson, so glad to read that the conditions were optimum for your DD's wedding.

    Anybody having travelling plans that would bring you to Denver?  Let me know...

    Ciao,

    Catherine

  • talbrig13
    talbrig13 Member Posts: 358
    edited January 2008

    Hi girls.

    I have a terrible headache today and slept for 12 hours.  Benn popping the Tylenol.  

    Anyway, like you Carynn, I should do a few hours work today...have schedules to do for work.  We are shorthanded and busy and I have been working 10 hour days...11 yesterday.  As soon as I got home I had to meet dd at the cell  phone store to get her  phone replaced. 

    I have a question for all of you who had rads.   Here it is almost 5 months later and my skin on the radiated breast is extremely itchy.  My skin also looks "dimpled"  almost like the  peau de orange skin seen on the IBC boards.   I have been putting Gold Bond Healing lotion on it to quell the itching, and have been worrying that I am worrying too much.  Do you think it is just a rads delayed reaction.   Have you noticed these changes in your skin.    I see the onc on Thursday...so will ask, at the risk of sounding like a hypochondriac.

    Well, my headache and I have to fold laundry....so off I go. 

    Have a great weekend....to all you newcomers, you can read back through our experiences, but you might want to come together as we did last year on your own board.  You will find good friends to support you there.  Best of luck to all of you.

  • NarberthMom
    NarberthMom Member Posts: 382
    edited January 2008



    Terry --



    My skin has been fine since rads, but I didn't have too much problem with it during rads. Definitely bring it up with your onc. In fact, you might want to see if you can get an appointment with your rads onc.

    I hope that work eases a bit for you. BTW, love the new avatar!



    Hugs,

    Hillary

  • guitarGrl
    guitarGrl Member Posts: 150
    edited January 2008

    Cookie -



    I went out today and got a really good short haircut. For one I read that it's less traumatic if your hair is already short when it starts falling out. Don't know how long your hair is, but I found that having mine cut really short was good for my psyche. And I'll have at least 2 weeks of a good haircut before the inevitable.



    I'm sure there are good people in AZ, or If you wanted to take the ride, I've got a really good hair-stylist in San Diego - what's 5 hours for a hair cut? (well 5 hours the way I drive)



  • guitarGrl
    guitarGrl Member Posts: 150
    edited January 2008

    Cookie -



    I went out today and got a really good short haircut. For one I read that it's less traumatic if your hair is already short when it starts falling out. Don't know how long your hair is, but I found that having mine cut really short was good for my psyche. And I'll have at least 2 weeks of a good haircut before the inevitable.



    I'm sure there are good people in AZ, or If you wanted to take the ride, I've got a really good hair-stylist in San Diego - what's 5 hours for a hair cut? (well 5 hours the way I drive)



  • wayover20
    wayover20 Member Posts: 191
    edited January 2008

     I had my first official hair cut due to it being short but "bushy" and I needed it shaped. It came out real nice, sort of a pixie but no curls. I never had curly/wavy hair but the way it was growing people who didn't know me before were saying "what cute curly hair". Too short now to see any curls if there are any left. There's another nurse at work who started her BC journey about 3 months before I did and now she constantly compliments me about how nice my hair is compared to hers. She says (like Primel) that hers is so straight and goes in all directions, and very hard to manage. But in the same breath she is thankful she has hair.

    (Now if I can lose 50lbs I'd really be something)

    pat

  • NarberthMom
    NarberthMom Member Posts: 382
    edited January 2008



    Good evening all,



    I had my "annual" with my gyn. I had seen her for the first time right after I was diagnosed (my regular gyn was on maternity leave) and I liked her, so stuck with her. She had read my file before coming to see me, which was really great ... she was up-to-speed right away and we could talk about the key stuff related to her specialty. Basically, I've been put into menopause from the chemo. It's about the right time anyways -- I'm turning 50 this week. Because I'm ER/PR negative, there's no reason to check my estrogen levels. And, because I'm BRCA1/2 negative, there's no reason to remove my ovaries. My hot flashes are really mild ... maybe three times a week at night only, so we don't have to worry about that. The only thing she told me to watch out for was any bleeding ... then she wants to see me right away. Otherwise, I stick to my annual checkup with her.



    Next week, mammo on both sides and MRI on the left side!



    Hugs,

    Hillary



    P.S. to Pat -- tell your friend to experiment with different hair products. It is the only thing that keeps my bushy hair in any semblance of style.

  • leahrc
    leahrc Member Posts: 384
    edited January 2008

    Hello, all!

    I have a question:  When I was being staged last year in January, I had a bilateral MRI of both breasts. In May, just before surgery, I had mammo of BC breast, but not other.

    When should I have my next mammo, and should I have both or just the unaffected one?  I also don't know which dr. to ask, and my PCP didn't have a good answer. Also, does anyone know how insurance would view it?

    Other than that, followups of either pelvic/abdominal CT or full body PET CT is every 60 days due to liver RFA, so I am well followed in that area.  Should I even worry on the mammo front given the PET/CT? 

    Just sign me ... confused!

    Also, remember that I went first last year for chemo? One year coming up Friday! I can't believe it!

  • twink
    twink Member Posts: 550
    edited January 2008
    Hi Leah,
    ASCO says annual mammos at a minimum, starting one year following the mammo that detected the BC (heh... mammo didn't detect mine).  I'd say you're due for a bilateral mammo  in January.
    One year!  Wow!  That's amazing. 
    Hugs Leah.  Hugs everybody else too.
    T
  • misspell
    misspell Member Posts: 5
    edited January 2008

    I am looking for the girls I started Chemo with last year and anyone who has experienced problems similar issues to my last 3 or 4 months. I think the cancer has changed me not the hormones. Any feedback is welcome. 

    I had the bilateral mastectomy in Jan of 07 and finished my chemo in May of 07. My lymph nodes weere clear and my last pet was very promising. The Oncotype rated me a 5%. My odds are clearly very promising. I am taking Tamoxifen.

    I think the Cancer has changed me....I mean I was scared to death then WE fought and kicked cancers butt! I had good odds from the beginning and FAITH o m gosh I found faith. So much easier than constant worry. And angels appeared everywhere.....complete strangers....long time friends/family.......medical angels....I have my surgeons cell phone and home phone numbers!!!! It has been the most incredible experience of my 52 years.

    Everyone, except my dear sweet 19 year old son.....says it's the meds that's making me uhhhhmmmm brittle, too sensitive, moody.

    I can see this to a point....on the other hand I have some really crappy things happen in just the last 3 months....and I am not angry anymore....I was truly hurt.  I could not convince anyone of the validity of the actions taken against me and was told I couldn't get along with anyone....crazy....paranoid...crappy....bossy.

    I was just trying to get people to believe me or just leave me alone...

    I have had problems with co-workers, family, friends and some strangers....yikes!

    "Here's To Wanda"

    Fried Green Tomatoes

    Misspell

    PS it is so nice to see all your faces again.

  • marshakb
    marshakb Member Posts: 796
    edited January 2008

    Leah, don't know about the mamms as I had both removed and don't have to worry with that again!  I have a med onc F/U appt tomorrow and a rads F/U on Thursday.  WOW one year, can you gals believe it??  FU, how appropriate LOL)

    Hillary, chemo thru me into menapause also!  The hot flashes are not as bad as they were a few months ago.  I can definately live with it.

    Hey Misspell!  How are you?  I think we can all agree about being changed.  I have a friend who says the most insensitive stuff all the time and you know what?  I've found myself pulling away from her a little bit. 

    I'm really building my energy level back up.  I forget about being tired while at the theatre and managed a 10 hour "tech Sunday" and a long dress rehearsal last night.  Very keyed up when I get home and little achy but in a good way!  Opening night is Thursday and boy are we ready for an audience!  Last night we (finally) added the 5 piece band onstage and it made a huge difference! 

    I haven't been posting much at all, hell I haven't even been reading much.  Hope everyone is doing well and keeping busy!  Hello to all!  Marsha

  • CookieOkie
    CookieOkie Member Posts: 5
    edited January 2008

    Anyone familiar with Epirubicin? My oncologist believes in being aggressive. He wants to use Epirubicin at the end of my chemo I think. He wants to do every other week if I'm up to it and also at the end of my treatment he is ameanable to using a platin, Cisplatin is used mainly for met. bc but he is willing to concock something along with Taxotere. He has a "friend" I think he said, that is aware of Epirubicin, it isn't used a lot because of the expense and the insurance companies would rather use the generic, but they are aware of good and interesting results with Epirubicin.

    Had my port put in today, no biggie, a little sore now and tired! I presume I'll start chemo next week.

    ANYONE HEAR WHAT IS IN THE "GOODIE" BAG THAT WE NEED TO MAKE FOR OURSELVES?

    Cookie

  • MelanieW
    MelanieW Member Posts: 276
    edited January 2008

    Cookie;  I was one of the few of us that started chemo last Feb that was given epirubicin.  I received the max dosage allowed in a lifetime.  I took 6 rounds of Epi-Cytoxan-Taxotere...every 3 weeks.  My onc was very aggressive and did say that if I were not in excellent health other than bc, that he would not have given me all 3 at once.  Epi can be hard on your heart and you should get a MUGA (measures your ejection rate) right before chemo and then again right after.  I think Hillary mentioned that a 2008 Feb Chemo group has been started.  You will gain so much more info and help if you can find that thread.  Those women will be going through all of the symptoms with you, whereas the women here have completed our chemos.  It just helps so much more to know you are not going through this alone.  You will make it! 

    Melanie

  • MelanieW
    MelanieW Member Posts: 276
    edited January 2008

    Marsha;  It is so good to see you excited again!  Looks like time really does fly when you are having fun.  Makes me wish I had some kind of talent...other than eating everything in sight lately!  You know that we are looking forward to seeing you perform.  Of course you will be saving the best for last...*Wink*

    Leah;  I would think the pet/ct would suffice, but then again my dr.'s kit is plastic with candy aspirin.  Twink is most likely more correct in that it is time for a mammo.  Another test...blah.  Mammo didn't get mine either.

    Hillary;  The right gyn is definitely hard to come by.  I love mine, especially since he's not an ob.  No running out to deliver babies!  I am a little late on my annual, but I have an appointment.  I just have so much going on right now.  Major dental work starts the 11th, scans the 19th, annual the 21st, Florida the 23rd!  My hot flashes have completely subsided.  I actually think my body is trying to revert to pre chemopause.  I have decided to go ahead with the hysterectomy even though my onc and gyn think it's unnecessary.  I don't want the worries. 

    Thinking about Catherine, Carynn, Sammie, Terry and Phyl...we haven't heard from you in awhile!

  • CommandoBarbie
    CommandoBarbie Member Posts: 474
    edited January 2008
    Hi all!

    Home at a relatively decent hour. I should actually still be working but decided today I just needed to say ENOUGH! It will still be there tomorrow. I probably will stay late Wednesday and Thursday tho. :( I will be out of the office on Friday as DH and I will be going to the FBR open. Any golf fans out there who know about the 16th hole in Phoenix, that’s where we’ll be. I always take Super Bowl Monday off as I never seem to get home before midnight!

    Leah – Howdy! My Onc reccommeds mammos every 6 months. For my peace of mind we alternate. I had a mammo in January, will have a MRI of both breasts in June, then mammo in January. I think that’s pretty common.

    Marsha – So good to hear from you. If I don’t talk to you before Thursday, break a leg! Please post some stills for us. :)

    Misspell – Nice to hear from you. I think it’s normal to be a little more sensitive, or aware. It was a tough year! Keep in mind too that your son was probably scared for his Mom and he feels changed too. Hang in there girlfriend. I find it is easier every day.

    Cookie – Glad you’re feeling good. I’m sorry, I haven’t heard of Epirubicin. For a goodie bag, do you mean to take to chemo? I always took a book, a  big bottle of water, my laptop, a blanket  and some snacks. I would add and pull stuff out based on my mood. But the blanket and book were most important!

    Melanie – Nice to see you! Would you believe we got our spots back for the races? I’ll have to keep you posted come April.

    Have a great nite all. See you soon!

  • CookieOkie
    CookieOkie Member Posts: 5
    edited January 2008

    Melanie:

    May I ask why your Dr. gave you Epirubicin? My tumor was 4.5 cm, no lymph node involvement, good margins, 3-, there is a "spot" on my lung but the oncolgist is sure it is nothing. Too small to biopsy.

    Yesterday was the first time I have ever heard of Epirubicin.  What is that MUGA test you say to get before and after chemo and why should it be done?

    What other protocol were you on? And, if you don't mind, what are the details of your tumor?

    I am really confused and just feel that I have to trust my Dr. Enough of research, etc. There is so much out there, I don't know what to believe and of that there is so much I don't understand. I'm exhausted trying to find the miracle "cure"  or what drug combination to use. A friend read about Epirubicin and said that something about the drug bothered her, maybe the stuff about your heart, whatever, and I told her that all of the drugs have those awful disclaimers and possibilities, that is just part of chemo. It is poison anyway you look at it.

    Am I being unrealistic, trusting the Dr. completely? After all, he's the one trained in this?

    Are there any other tests that I should have? Does anyone know if there is a test that will tell what medications would work the best, without having the actual tumor seeing it was taken out the beginning of Jan? Seems everything I have read the best treatment or mostly used is AC + T (every 2 or 3 wks) with radiation (35 days). Then my Dr. is willing to push the envelope and get creative. Hoping to have me take the chemo every 2 weeks, if I can. He's going to add the epirubicin at the end and add a platin to it with T. I think!

    Thanks

    Cookie

  • Kanga
    Kanga Member Posts: 1
    edited January 2008

    I'll be starting soon. I'm in stage 4 with recurrent cancer. I'm told it will be aggressive. Probably use adriamycin, cytoxin, and taxol. Later radiation and herceptin.  Anyone know anything about these

    drugs. I live in upstate NY, rather isolated so I would really appreciate friends who are willing to go through this together.

    Thanks Kanga

  • wildabouthorses
    wildabouthorses Member Posts: 458
    edited January 2008

    Hi y'all, catching up on reading. Yes Marsha I'm pretty busy with the new camera, I find its pretty relaxing and fun to share the joy of the photo taken.Ive moved the photos to the dreamers thread since there seemed to be more chatting in there. I don't get that those in the circle thread that talk like they can't go over there to see them! I guess there must be friction in the background going on...oh well I try to stay out of it.

    CATHERINE>yes I am at GINA's first thing every morning. Feel pretty comfy over there for now. My DH is having surgery on his ankle Feb the 4th  and he's getting pretty wound up about it since this will be the 4th surgery on his leg since the accident. I know he's also worried about being able to pay the deductable. He was home early from work yesterday as the cold front came in it caused a lot of pain for him in his leg. I just am hoping this surgery is the last one and his pain eases up. He has a bone chip floating around in the ankle causing pain and swelling and doc is going to carve on one of the bones as that chip seems to have done something to it.

  • MelanieW
    MelanieW Member Posts: 276
    edited January 2008

    Cookie;  My onc said that Epirubicin was showing really good results in European studies, but I think it can be a bit harder on your heart.  It is so hard to lay your life in the hands of someone you do not know and does not know you.  Keep doing your research.  Make a list of questions for your onc for each visit and make notes.  Get copies of all your medical records periodically.  MUGA is a 30 minute test that basically measures how your heart is pumping.  Standard procedure for those getting the "mycins".  If you Google muga test it will give you details.  My tumor was 2.2cm, grade 2, stage 3 (3 of 13 pos nodes), triple neg and clear margins.  If you have any more questions, please ask.

    Kanga;  You will gain so much more support and information with ladies that are just starting chemo with you.  All of us here have finished our treatments...for the most part.  There has been a thread started for the Feb 2008 starters.  That support system is so important right now!

    Jan;  We have missed you!

    Carynn;  You really are a sports fanatic!  I have a friend just like you.  She is so much fun.  Racing is right around the corner.  Are you sure you can't sneak away for a couple of days and join us in FL? 

    I hope everyone is having a great day!  Time to get back to work...

  • Primel
    Primel Member Posts: 652
    edited February 2008

    Good evening, dear friends... I read every day.. but do not stop long enough to post... so much to do... nice things mostly, mind you, except for all the GYN checkups like Hillary was going through recently: looks like Tamoxifen is already acting up and I may need a D&C procedure to get rid of polyps and/or cysts... everything else is OK (got an U.S. exam + uterus biopsy + paps).  Anyway, they do not think that I am truly menopaused yet, which would explain that I had like a period earlier this month... who needs that at 55??  I went balistic, as you can imagine, but the bleeding (very light) stopped after 5-6 days, and I had all the "forgotten" symptoms (cramps, lower back pain, headache... but no housecleaning fever... too bad)... so wait and see for me until they switch me to Arimidex or whatever... anyway, I have to plan this D&C sooner than later... will discuss that with the onc as soon as he gets the reports.

    Other than that, life is good: beautiful snow, tons of things to read, movies to watch (The red violin for tonight), interesting work to do. 

    I am so glad to read Marsha's enthusiastic notes... thinking of you... today was the big day... you must be just through as we speak... I think of you each time I hear Patsy Kline...

    Carynn, you look simply adorable and cheerful on your new avatar... this hair style is really lovely.

    Hillary, Terry thinking of you dear friends, hoping things will be getting better and better.

    Jan, hope everything goes well for your husband. What an ordeal he went through, too... I can understand your interest in photography... a wonderful activity when you take the time to look around...

    Twink, Leah, Melanie... wish I could be with you in a few weeks, but with the latest developments, that is not in the cards.  Don't regret the food part:  it is difficult to cook in places you do not know... I sure hope that Denver will be a place you will travel through and that you'll let me know ahead of time so we can meet... whoever is first... and I'll prepare something nice in your honor...

    Well, I feel so sad to see all the newbies... the fact that we went through the whole thing unfortunately does not prevent others from being hit by bc... it's been a non-stop "just diagnosed" thread since we  discovered these boards ourselves...

    Alyson, where are the pictures (I did not post any either, yet...)?? Are you back to school?  How are you doing?

    I need to go, now, just wanted to tell you all that you are in my thoughts and that I wish you the best,

    Hugs,

    Catherine

  • SammieKay
    SammieKay Member Posts: 247
    edited February 2008

    Hi all,

    I have been reading all your posts and enjoying them. 

    I am working three days a week now and seems like I am either going to bed to get up early or coming home exhausted and resting up for the next day's work.  I hope I can retire before too many more months.  We will see.

    I think I am trying to forget cancer.  I feel selfish because I should be sharing with the new people.  I have been talking to a young woman at work who is just starting chemo. 

    I am thinking of Marsha as she finishes her first performance.  I know she was awesome.

    I am feeling sad about not coming to FL for the reunion, but just couldn't fit it in.  I know you will all have a great time.

    I love your hair Carynn.  You too, Hillary.  I wonder if my wearing the wig is keeping mine from growing.  I had my last A/C on July 24th and my hair is about 1 and 1/2 inches long.  It is thick and curly, but because of the cowlicks I have, it is very unmanageable. So just keep wearing the wigs.  I wonder if the Arimidex is slowing the growth?

    I read on the new Feb.08 thread that someone with Her2neg had recurrance and said that Arimidex didn't work because she was Her2 negative.  Does anyone know anything about that?  I am neg. and on Arimidex.  I have never heard that before.  The doc at MD Anderson was the one who prescribed the Arimidex.

    I got the new couches and they are so comfortable. They are leather.  They seem to crush easily(has a pillow-top thingy over the seat cushions), that is what smashes down.  But oh how comfortable they are.

    I will write more this weekend.  We have had to go out of town the past two weekends.  Mike's cousin commited suicide.  He was 54 and was a very sad time for all.

    I hope to be a little more sociable.  I so value all of your friendships and will try to contribute more

    Love to all, Sammie Kay 

  • Alyson
    Alyson Member Posts: 3,737
    edited February 2008

    Hi All

    First day of school today but have been in all week. Very tired tonight. Will try to get some pictures up this weekend, it was such a great day and so beautifully fine. Erin enjoyed every moment of her special day.

    I had my hair coloured before the wedding which was great so no more white/grey for a while, it is a much lighter colour than previously but I rather like it. Sammie Kay I have had my hair trimmed twice now however it is still not very long and it is very curly. I decided as soon as my hair was about half an inch long not to wear my wig. Didn't even take it on our trip.

    I am taking Femara which is similar to Armidex and I am her2neg. My onc is on of the researchers leading the world wide Armidex/Femara SE trials so I am sure he knows what he is doing.

    Terry, I too am having problems with my skin, the rads area breaks out in litlle blister like scabs which is very annoying. the rads onc said it was normal and to keep putting cream on it and to be very careful in the sun.

    Will talk to my new SiL and get him to help me put some pictures up.

    It was great to catch up with all the news, Have a good weekend.

    Alyson 

  • talbrig13
    talbrig13 Member Posts: 358
    edited February 2008

    Good morning...a quick post before going to work.  Saw the onc. He says the breast is normal for a radiated breast.  He said I have been cut and cooked and the thickening and bigger pores are permanant.  He is not concerned.  So I just need to quit "spazzing" over everything.   Anyway, I graduated from Herceptin.  I am done.  He wants me to have the gene testing BEFORE I have my breast reduction surgery.  While he thinks I am negative, if I would be positive I might decide to go a different route...mastectomies, ovaries out etc.   So that pushes my surgery back and makes another trip to Pittsburgh as they don't do that here.  

    And, he wants me to get this stupid port out sooner, since we think it is pinching a nerve in my arm causing the numbness.    So now my plans are totally mixed up. 

    It is a total ice storm here today...have the car thawing out.  Will need extra time to get to work.   A snow day for the kids.  Even Penn State is on a 2 hour delay.

    I have been doing WeightWatchers on line and have lost about 5 pounds.  So I have to go to that website daily too and log my points. 

    Oh, and the onc is trying me on Arimidex and then Aromasin to see if either causes be less joint pain than the Femara...so I will keep you posted on that.

    Hope Marsha "broke a leg"  last nite!!

    Alyson, can't wait to see pics.   Jan & Catherine, hope both your hubbies are well...good luck with surgery.   My DH got blood work back and his sugar is getting borderline.  So I need to get him to eat more like I do...no refined starches, sugars etc.

    Well, got to slide to work....Have a great day!

  • MelanieW
    MelanieW Member Posts: 276
    edited February 2008

    Marsha;   Opening Night!!!!  Please drop in and tell us how you "knocked their socks off".

    Catherine;  I am so sorry to hear about the cousin.  How sad.  Please know that you are in my thoughts.  On the "period"...I have wondered if any of our bodies decided to come out of chemopause.  While in Hawaii, I actually thought  I was...just one little "spot" for about 5 days.  Strange.  I haven't had hot flashes for several months, so I have been kind of wondering Surprised 

    Sammie;  I also hate that you will not be with us in FL.  Like Alyson, I quit wearing a hat when my hair was 1/2 ".  It is now about 3" and seems to get curlier as it gets longer.  I "blue glue" it and comb the bangs flat and pin them to the side. 

    Alyson;  I can't wait to see the pics! 

    Terry;  Go ahead and spazz all you want.  What a year.  Congrats on the weight loss.  I too am trying to lose the excess weight.  I have a "spare tire" which is something I have never had before.  I have always carried my weight pretty evenly until now.  I am really struggling with it.  I have always heard that Weight Watchers is the best long term life plan for maintaining healthy eating habits.

    Leah, Twink, Marsha;  I have our place booked!  Can't wait to meet you all!

  • marshakb
    marshakb Member Posts: 796
    edited February 2008

    Melanie, ok ok A quick stop by to let you know, YES we knocked their socks off!  I had tons of flowers in the dressing room and after the show they had a meet and greet for the audience in the lobby.  Cindy (Patsy) and I got mobbed and people asking us to sign their programs.  Good Lord, I've done alot of shows but this response took me completely by surprise.  Gotta go in early tonight, the paper is coming to take pics in costumes.

    Catherine, so sorry to hear about your cousin too.  I haven't had a period since a week before starting chemo, so exactly one year ago.  HAHA Hope that continues.

    Sammie Kay, we will miss you!  And so sorry about Mikes cousin.  How young and how sad.

    Hey Terry, I was relieved to have the port out.

    Alyson, I am so glad your DD wedding went well. I'm sure she was just beautiful and can't wait to see the pics.

    Jan, I don't really know how to comment on where you post your pics.  I'd love to see them but can't stomach the drama (I save THAT for the stage) and childish behavior that seems to constantly be going on with the wagon girls.  I really don't understand that on a breast cancer discussion board.

    Twink, I don't post anywhere else but here.  Sometimes I'll check the "active conversation" button to see if there is something I'm interested in or that relates to me like the ILC thread.  I can't wait to see you guys in a couple of weeks.

    Carynn, woohoo on getting your race seats back.  I know how much you missed that last year.  I'm looking forward to the Super Bowl too.  Your avatar is awesome.  LOVE the hair do!!

    Hello Leah, Hillary, Phyl (where you hiding?), Pat, OH anyone heard from Karen?  Such a deju vu feeling to read the Feb 2008 gals looking for support.  Sure hope they find each other and get the same kind of love and support we all had (and still have)!

    Hugs all around!  Marsha

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