Can we have a forum for "older" people with bc?

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  • cindyny
    cindyny Member Posts: 1,357
    edited August 2020

    I'm still shoveling rock, #2 marble chips, and spreading them along the pool. So much rock!

    It looked like a very bad storm was coming so I was hustling before partner was awake. He gets moving, and the big storm has missed us. But the humidity is horrible. Almost wish we got some of that storm, we'd be forced to take a break!

    Betrayal good luck with your knee. Sit back and enjoy the hummingbirds.

    Hope everyone's day goes smooth.

  • chisandy
    chisandy Member Posts: 11,418
    edited August 2020

    Betrayal, ouch! Last time I needed a knee immobilizer it was too long--had to duct-tape the top to my pants. (Of course, no long pants in this heat), Ice, ice baby--and remember to elevate "toes above nose" as much as you can.

    Heat & humidity is about to be awful again (had a lake breeze reprieve tonight)--hottest (and steamiest) day of the year. Record is 97F, which we will easily break. Heat index predicted to be 105-110. Tomorrow is my followup appt. at UIC's Eye & Ear clinic--my HK will drop me off and pick me back up, as patients aren't allowed to have anyone accompany them due to the pandemic. Hope I can wait for her afterwards inside where it's air-conditioned, but they discourage milling around because of crowding. Not sure if I can manage waiting outdoors for up to an hour. Can't even stay hydrated, as we must wear masks at all times inside the building.

  • betrayal
    betrayal Member Posts: 3,873
    edited August 2020

    Knee immobilizer must have been for someone in the 6' range and I am just a tad over 5'. So it keeps creeping down my leg and under my heel. Had to readjust it because it was rubbing on achilles and already have issues with plantar fasciitis related to AI's. Have been elevating and icing. Hope I can sleep tonight.

    Now on my 3rd and last AI. While it has relieved some SE from Letrozole, its SE was bilateral lower extremity edema to the point I had no shoes left to wear and ankles an elephant would have been proud of. Even the adjustable sandals were too tight. So had to add yet another drug to treat side effects of AI. MO says < 5% of persons on this AI get edema, well I got it and even with feet elevated, it was still present in the AM. So diuretic has been doing its job and edema during this heat/humidity is back, but it is mild.



  • karen1956
    karen1956 Member Posts: 4,652
    edited August 2020

    Illinois Lady - its been 98 in Denver the last 3 days and again tomorrow! The air is full of smoke, heavy and hazy. So you're Colorado friends aren't missing nice weather.

  • Lovemyyorkies
    Lovemyyorkies Member Posts: 43
    edited August 2020

    Well my journey will continue. Talked with my MO yesterday and decided to go with his treatment plan. Really didn’t want to go this route but I guess none of us do. I go today to see surgeon for port placement. Will start treatment next Tuesday with taxol and I think Herceptin. Any advice for comfort measures to reduce any side affects along the way will be welcome

  • petite1
    petite1 Member Posts: 2,327
    edited August 2020

    IllinoisLady, Good quote for Lovemyyorkies or all of us making decisions. I see the RO and MO Thursday for the 1 year follow up.

  • illinoislady
    illinoislady Member Posts: 41,001
    edited August 2020

    When I found I no longer had the stamina to work long hours clearing the fallen limbs in the woods around my house, I began to bring a lawn chair and a thermos with me. I still work in the woods, but stop frequently to sit and have a cup of tea. I've identified birds I didn't know lived here and evidence that a bobcat shares the property. Since I've slowed down some, I see things I never saw before and find that quiet solitude is not lonely but nurturing, allowing my heart to open to the signs and lessons of nature that surround me.

    Sallirae Henderson

  • illinoislady
    illinoislady Member Posts: 41,001
    edited August 2020

    Our day is starting out fine -- some muted sun, but we are still in our hot period so it will be difficult to be outside at times and even more so for any work that takes place out there. My little mini-vacation is just about over. Friends are heading back to Colorado early Fri. morning. It has been nice to not start structuring my day almost at the time I get up and start working on my first cup of coffee. The thing is -- all the structure remains pretty much exactly the same unless we have to go to Marion or have a Dr.'s appt even here locally. So, not as bad as it sounds -- but still nice to have a break.

    Still feel some concern over the virus. Although I think my county is fine we do have the other two counties that jut into ours and just seems like there are always new cases turning up. The only good thing is not in high numbers, but it concerns me that there are still places ( I hope they mask and distance ) where people are in larger groups. We still have people who will not wear masks -- Walmart being a big one. I do see ( the few times we have gone ) other stores with un-masked people. I never considered not wearing a mask but hope it helps ( good hand washing and distance ) protests me somewhat ( I know it is not much ) from those who won't wear a mask. I do want to be considerate of others. I worried tremendously with my coughing sometimes. It is from a blood presser medication I take and I have no idea when it is going to rear up. If I were others around me I'd be darn worried. I've managed to have very slight control but lots of times my eyes water a little from the strain.

    Hope you are all going to have a good day and decent weather.

    Lovemyyorkies, I'm glad you have your decision made. It can be a hard confront because even if minimalized I think some days on chemo are difficult. I have always felt though the pain I might feel if I didn't hit is as hard as I could. To that end ( I don't think you were here posting at the time ) I gave up a kidney in mid-July. It didn't involve chemo ( some rads in the bladder by capsule for 20 mins or so ) but the price I would have paid to try and keep the kidney was just too much. I worry about things you can't get a second chance on. Also refresher here because I didn't know it at the time -- my cancer cluster was in the ureter which goes up into the kidney -- so that is what determined having to make a choice. I am wishing you well and wellness as you move forward. In your pocket.

  • betrayal
    betrayal Member Posts: 3,873
    edited August 2020

    Love today's message. I do not mind solitude and sometimes crave it when chaos is occurring. My DH has to be out and about which concerns me at times but I keep on him about social distancing and handwashing. So while I do miss my "retail therapy" on occasion, I am content to stay home and be safe.

    The area we live in provides me with lots of beautiful vistas since we have woods behind us and I have gardened extensively, our homes are not close, so privacy is great, and wildlife is abundant. The battling hummingbirds are back for day 2 and the one is fiercely defending "her" feeder from the other 2 interloping female ruby throated hummingbirds.

    The baby parakeet is nearly as large as its parents, flies within the cage and steals their swings. So it has reached the stage where it pesters its parents. Fun to watch. I will post a picture later. Have a good day.

  • reader425
    reader425 Member Posts: 974
    edited August 2020

    I love reading everyone's posts. I love the daily-ness. I think there are quite a few introverts on here. Tomorrow temperatures will soar so today DH and I hiked the local towpath then stopped for an early dinner at an outdoor dining place.

    My sister has just been diagnosed with breast cancer and she is awaiting biopsy results from her colonoscopy. So 🙏 and good thoughts for her are appreciated. My heart hurts for her but so far the BC seems early stage. A 🙏♥️ for all on here who are waiting, healing.

    image

  • illinoislady
    illinoislady Member Posts: 41,001
    edited August 2020

    Lots of hugs and so many well wishes to your sister Reader. Hoping any cancer found is very much early stage and will not be un-comfortable to deal with. Never a great dx. at any time as we all know so well.

    If the picture is where you walked then I say lucky you. It looks calm and peaceful which would make it so easy to appreciate. Sounds like you had a very nice day all together.

    Almost midnight here but I didn't want to let this go until tomorrow, so again so many hopes being sent for a good outcome for your sister.

  • mistyeyes
    mistyeyes Member Posts: 582
    edited August 2020

    Lovemyyorkies - Herceptin made my nose run constantly, so I always had a tissue in my hand....not sure how that's going to work out with the masks. prayers for you

  • Lovemyyorkies
    Lovemyyorkies Member Posts: 43
    edited August 2020

    illinoiselady and misty eyes thank you for your comments. I get port placed Monday. This Covid has made things more difficult as no one can be with me during chemo. I love reading everyone stories as it encourage me..

    God is great all the tim

  • betrayal
    betrayal Member Posts: 3,873
    edited August 2020

    Reader425: Keeping my fingers crossed that your sister receives good news on breast and colonoscopy bx. Hard to wrap your head around two concerns at the same time, so I feel for her. Love the photos you have posted: peace and tranquility.

    Lovemyyorkies: Good luck on Monday. Our thoughts will be with you during chemo so you are not as alone as you think you will be. True we can't be there physically, but the sisterhood is here.

  • mcbaker
    mcbaker Member Posts: 1,876
    edited August 2020

    I agree with the Herceptin-- my eyes were tearing and my nose was running all the time. I went through infusions without friend or relative present. The nurses were wonderfully supportive, and my bladder accidents were not as embarrassing.

    Prayers for Reader's sister.

  • kathindc
    kathindc Member Posts: 1,667
    edited August 2020

    Reader, so sorry to hear about your sister. My heart tugs for both of you.

    Looks like you and DH had a peaceful walk on the towpath. Looks like Great Falls. VA side

  • beaverntx
    beaverntx Member Posts: 2,962
    edited August 2020

    Reader, prayers for you and your sister. It is good that she has you.

    Lovemyyorkies, in your pocket for chemo. While we cannot be there in person, we are with you (((gentle hugs)))

  • cindyny
    cindyny Member Posts: 1,357
    edited August 2020

    Reader - let your sister know we're all in her pocket. Keeping her in my prayers.

    Lovemyyorkies- my best to you on Monday.

    We've gone from hot & humid 83, to cool & raining 63. It seems like in the blink of an eye we're jumping closer to fall.

    Prayers for all those affected by hurricane Laura.

  • petite1
    petite1 Member Posts: 2,327
    edited August 2020

    Reader, my thoughts are with your sister.

    Lovemyyorkie, good luck, hope all goes well

    I saw the RO and MO today. I don't have to see the RO anymore. Yay. The MO went over reports and labs, Good news, The bone scan improved. I am out of osteopenia and back into normal. He said keep doing what you are doing. Calcium + D and exercise.

  • illinoislady
    illinoislady Member Posts: 41,001
    edited August 2020

    Pessimists see only the dark side of the clouds, and mope; philosophers see both sides, and shrug; optimists don't see the clouds at all -- they're walking on them. -LeonardLouis Levinson

  • illinoislady
    illinoislady Member Posts: 41,001
    edited August 2020

    Petite....such good news and to get to drop a Dr. off the list. Time to get back some of your time now..

    Good day here so far. Lazy -- that's why. I'll have to get busy soon and get a few things done.

    Hope you all have a really good day.

  • Taco1946
    Taco1946 Member Posts: 630
    edited August 2020

    Lovemyyorkies - I think you made a good decision. I too did Taxol/Herceptin. Basically, the way it was explained to me was that taxol "pried the pump" for the Herceptin which has been a game-changer for TP folks. I suggest you join a "starting chemo Sept" group. Mine was a lifesaver. We laughed and cried together and still use our private Facebook account occasionally to check-in. I also suggest you look for the taxol group. Sorry I don't have the link anymore.

    As for my experience, in the early weeks my biggest SE was the constitpation/diaherra cycle. I found that if I had fully emptied my bowels the day before chemo, I did much better. I took miralax and a probiotic daily and a laxative if I needed it. Many of us have found that non-D Claritin (cheap as a generic over the counter) helps with the joint pain. I was given an anti-nausea prescription but never needed it. I did find I had some acid reflux and took an over the counter drug like Pepsid. I don't remember having any trouble eating or having food cravings. I gained rather than lost weight. Mainly the steroid I think. Some people make certain they have a relatively high protein diet because they won't give you chemo if your blood count gets too low. I kept up my regular routine 4-5 days of the week (including playing golf several times a week) through most of chemo - developed bad neuropathy at the end so became more home-bound.

    They will give you a "cocktail" of drugs to start - anti-nausea drug, steroid, .....I can't remember but I think I got four, each taking about 10 minutes a piece. Then an hour of taxol and 30 of Herceptin. I was really glad I got my port. The steroids will probably give you a sufficient high that you won't sleep the first night and crash the second. Not quite so important an issue for those of us who are retired but something to plan for. I just dosed and read on the couch the first night so as not to be restless and bother DH.

    Taxol is hard on your nails and hair. One of the reasons your nose runs all the time is that you hav lost your noise hair. Assume you will lose all of your hair - everywhere. I always joked I was one of the few 71 year olds with a Brazilian. If you can afford it and someone will do it in these covid times, get permanent eye make up before you start. I missed by eyebrows much more than my head hair. If you have long hair, you may want to have it cut some now. I was bald by 6 weeks. I was comfortable with my bald head and scarves but you might want to look for a wig before you start to lose your hair if you won't be. I continued to wear gel nails and get pedicures through treatment. Only lost one toe nail. I really trusted my nail technician and the nails were an emotional boast.

    Take something to entertain yourself. Book, magazines, cross word puzzles etc. Many like some favorite music - also cuts out the noise of other patients and makes a good excuse if you don't want to visit too much with other around you. My center had one large open room although some do have individual cubicles I understand. I was happy with my Kindle. Others at my center brought iPads or laptops. Wear lose comfortable clothing. Light sweat pants and a top that will allow easy access to your port. A golf shirt works well. Take a light jacket or sweater - another advantage of a port. Take water and a light snack - fruit/your favorite energy bar. I like "Kind". Some chemo centers used to have some food/beverages available, either free or in a machine but may not now.

    I always went alone - by choice. My chemo center was very close and I felt comfortable driving myself home. If you are having a driver, assume at least 3 hours before pick-up, longer on your first visit.

    You will have SE's but Taxol really is "chemo lite". Talk to MO about your SE's - often there are relatively simple fixes. I, like others, hate to take a drug to counteract a drug but often it can make you more comfortable.

    The final thing I will say is ask for help if you need it. If someone says "what can I do", tell them. A prepared meal the day of chemo, help with shopping, driving, or ...As I've said her before, my DH really runs our household but if yours only boils water or you will be home alone, plan for that.

    You probably will have some tenderness from the port placement tonight. Over the counter pain medication should help.

    I hope I haven't given you more information than you wanted. I repeat what I said the other night, I am very glad I took MO's recommendation for treatment.

    We will be with you every step of your journey. Stay close.

    Marge

    P.S. Taco was my Pomeranian. Our current dog, Mutz, is a Norwich terrier mix. He makes me laugh.




  • Lovemyyorkies
    Lovemyyorkies Member Posts: 43
    edited August 2020

    Hello Taco1946

    Thank you for your post. It has encouraged and strengthened me. Knowing what to expect goes along way to alleviate fears. I always said I would not do chemo. Well I’ve eaten those words .When odds of recurrence drops from30% to 5 % its a no-brainer to go for it .it seems like everyone I know that has had breast cancer is young so glad I found this forum for older people. I will check out the other forums you have mentioned Thanks some h for sharing your experience. As you can guess I have Yorkies and a Cairn

    IllinoisLady I love reading your positive quotes. Keep it up

    Beaverntx,Betrayal, CindyNY thanks you all for responses.Knowing I’m not alone in this journey helps tremendously.

    God is great all the tim


  • reader425
    reader425 Member Posts: 974
    edited August 2020

    Lovemyyorkies Echoing the support and good thoughts 🙏 from here. Keep us posted. There is a book called "Uplift " by Barbara Delinsky that I repeatedly recommend. It addresses practical things and is very upbeat in tone. Helped me a lot.

    I'm overwhelmed and so encouraged by your kindness to and encouragement/prayers for my sister. I'll pass them on. Her lumpectomy is scheduled for 9/10.

  • reader425
    reader425 Member Posts: 974
    edited August 2020

    Kathindc, the path was on the Maryland side near Whites Ferry, not Virginia side. But good eye! We love walking on all parts of the towpath.

  • chisandy
    chisandy Member Posts: 11,418
    edited August 2020

    Reader, prayers for your sister. I can confirm that having two different cancers in sequence is rough--I can't imagine (and hope I won't ever have to find out) what that simultaneous one-two punch must be like. But it sounds like they caught both early. You might want to direct your sister to the "Lumpectomy Lounge" thread for pointers you haven't already given her--or a place to vent. And as to the colon cancer, partial colectomies these days are usually less extensive and easier to bounce back from than they used to be--there have been great strides in treating colon cancer.

    Lovemyyorkies, you made the right choice. I would get fitted for a wig sooner rather than later. Here in Chicago, there is a wig shop that serves only chemo and AI patients--they try to match your pre-chemo color and style. Make sure your MO writes you a prescription for a "cranial prosthesis" so that your insurance (or Medicare supplement) will cover at least part of it.

  • petite1
    petite1 Member Posts: 2,327
    edited August 2020

    Lovemyyorkies, Heartcyber hugs

  • chisandy
    chisandy Member Posts: 11,418
    edited August 2020

    In everyone's pockets today for chemo, port placement, lumpectomies, etc.

  • mcbaker
    mcbaker Member Posts: 1,876
    edited August 2020

    Prayers for all.

    PT was cancelled this morning because of tunner&lighting. Didn't know it was a problem with an indoor pool, but very reasonable after all. Tippy was scared all night it seems. He would climb over me,then scratch at my back (asking me to turn over and circle around him), then he would decide the danger was less on the other side of the bed. Repeat. I said a prayer of thankfulness, and we went back to bed and got another two hours. We had 6.5 inches of rain in the past 24. Break in a long dry spell. Hopefully will settle into a reasonable balance.

    I strained a muscle in my lower back yesterday, so getting only mild exercise today.

    Three teeth to be pulled next week.

  • Taco1946
    Taco1946 Member Posts: 630
    edited August 2020

    MC - we don't have 6 inches in a year! Can't image that - nor the mess in Texas and LA.

    LovemyYorkies- feel free to PM me too. Obviously, what we have in common on this thread besides BC is age - I think you and I are the only ones who regularly post who are TP. If I could figure out how to do it, I would post a picture of me with my bald head and my 71st birthday cake. Sandy and I first met in the lumpectomy lounge thread. I check in there every year on my anniversary.

    Have a safe weekend everyone.