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

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  • karen1956
    karen1956 Member Posts: 4,630
    edited April 2023

    Good visit with medical oncologist. Spent a lot of the visit talking about the MM and side effects etc. He thought I looked good and said if he saw me outside he wouldn't think anything was wrong with me. Yup, the inside and the outside don't match!!! My weight is down more - same as during BC chemo, he suggested Boost or Ensure and I said not a chance - the thought of drinking the stuff gags me!!! I told him I bought protein powder, but if i drink it, I'm not hungry. He told me to eat first and then sip on it even if it took me two hours to drink one and to try to drink 2/day. I told him I was only walking once/day many days and he said try for 2 walks/day. Keeping me on a 6 month schedule. When I was diagnosed 17 years ago, I did the BRCA 1 and 2 testing - thankfully negative. About 7 years ago, a 29 panel came out and he had me do that - a couple things showed up. Now there is a 84 gene panel and he wants me to do it as it will tell them if they need to watch me closer for other cancers! Plus it would be more information for my kids. So when I go for labs and treatment Friday, I will have the blood drawn. The company will push/fight for insurance to cover it an if insurance doesn't, he says cost is only $100 or $200 so we will pay out of pocket if need be.

    DH spoke with our friend who is a retired endocrinologist yesterday and he said yes the surgery is important and needs to be done, but can wait till done with chemo. Weill see what my endocrinologist says this afternoon. He told DH to tell my endocrinologist HI!!

    Another gorgeous sunny, warm day predicted for today, then turning colder, rain and even maybe snow.

    Sandy - sounds like you are enjoying your trip. It seems that the legal profession is very different in the US than most other countries.

    Have a great Tuesday.

  • mavericksmom
    mavericksmom Member Posts: 1,275
    edited April 2023

    Good morning, Karen! I woke up at mid-night, just a hour or so after I fell asleep, and thought of you. I wake up, due to the aches and pains, stay up until I feel really sleepy and then go back to bed. Last night I felt sleepy quicker than usual so I can't complain.

    I have a question, for Karen and everyone else. She mentioned her doctor wants her to walk twice a day. That surprised me as she works and has major health issues. I wondered how far do you walk? I can only guess what her doctor would tell me if I were his patient! I don't enjoy walking. I know I am not the norm, most people love it. I don't mind walking in a park or store and have gone to one of the large stores and walked around just to get moving. I am going to ask my PCP on Monday about going back to the gym. I do worry about getting Covid and I know I can't do a good work out wearing a mask, but risking heart failure being too sedentary, seems way worse!

    Sounds like you are having fun in Ireland, Sandy! I couldn't stand to go to a convention about law. It totally bores me. I am thankful someone wants to be a lawyer, but it is definitely not me. That said, I guess not many would enjoy doing microbiology work in a lab, doing endless numbers of necropsies, or even working with students in middle school, all things I loved to do! I am also a history buff. I am very thankful we are a society of people with different passions!

    Sunny today. Yesterday I was tearing up and shredding years of certification certificates and other work papers I was required to have. Turns out I still have a year left on my police clearances, so I can volunteer to help at the grandkids school for special events. I came across some sweet letters and notes from students I worked with over the years. Those mean more to me than any of the plaques and numerous engraved items, one being a huge old fashion school bell, that the district gave me. Honestly, I don't know what to do with those engraved items! But, the letters and notes from the kids, those warm my heart every time I read them.

    I think I will be de-cluttering for weeks on end before I can really feel "retired," but so nice to do this when the weather isn't too hot, and when I am "in the mood!"

    Wishing everyone a good day!

    Carole, I forget to mention to you that we often write on here at the same time. That said, you always post first because just like talking too much, I write too much too!

  • illinoislady
    illinoislady Member Posts: 39,835
    edited April 2023

    When I realized that God, the divine source of life, not people, was the source and substance of all good things, I was freed from every "ism" that held me captive. When I stopped comparing myself to others, stopped competing with others, when I was able to honestly want the best for everyone, when I became willing to make choices and accept full responsibility for their consequences, every chain that held me in a place of mediocrity and unfulfillment fell away. -Iyanla Vanzant

  • carolehalston
    carolehalston Member Posts: 8,214
    edited April 2023

    I finished reading Exodus yesterday and am now beginning Leviticus. I am reading on my laptop on a Kindle app. I read about an hour or so in the afternoon. I may look for a good book with historical Biblical background. Without offending Mary (I hope), I'm amazed at the detail of God's instructions for the building of his tabernacle and also the detail of ceremony in worship practices that include animal sacrifice.

    It's beautiful today, sunny and cool. I have a dermatologist appointment for a checkup. It may work out that I'm able to attend the chair yoga class at the gym.

    DH just departed to play golf. I hope he has a good round and enjoys himself. He has been taking steroids along with an antibiotic for upper respiratory congestion and the steroid really hypes him up. We've both noticed a difference in his personality.

    Hope everyone has a good day.

  • mcbaker
    mcbaker Member Posts: 1,833
    edited April 2023

    " I'm amazed at the detail of God's instructions for the building of his tabernacle and also the detail of ceremony in worship practices that include animal sacrifice."

    Totally amazed, myself. The OT is amazing in its entirety. Try Maccabees. What a heroic effort to get rid of the Greek rulers!

    There are few converts to Orthodox Judaism or the Amish faith. Many people respect them, and their lifestyles, but one has to almost be raised in such a lifestyle to conform to it. Fort that matter, I have never felt myself called to the life of a cloistered nun, even though I appreciate a quiet life.


  • cardplayer
    cardplayer Member Posts: 2,051
    edited April 2023

    Glad you had a good visit with your MO Karen. Hope the endocrinologist visit goes well this afternoon. Have you tried protein bars rather than shakes? Maybe you’ll find one that tastes better.

    Mavericksmom - sounds like you’re in a declutter mode. You asked Karen about exercise. DH and I walk everyday - between 1.7-2 miles outside if it’s nice. If it’s not nice enough out, we have a treadmill and recumbent bike in our lower level that I can use. We had such a mild winter though, we were able to walk most days, unless it was too cold and breezy.

    Sandy - hope you continue to enjoy Ireland.

    Illinois - hope you’re doing well and are feeling good.

    Sunny, warm and 20mph winds today. Blowing the pollen around. I’m heading to a sound bath shortly. Hope you all have a healthy and stress free day.

  • illinoislady
    illinoislady Member Posts: 39,835
    edited April 2023

    Lovely morning here. Our temps are not so bad either. Today is the first day where I feel I'm seeing true daylight in my arm returning to normal. Since that device was installed right about where my break was, I have had almost constant pain, but today there is so much more movement w/o the big ache getting worse. That makes me anxious to get my appt. and get on with getting totally well again. I should get a call soon to remove the test of the dressing and have only steri-strips left. Fingers crossed that I'm called soon. A lot of aching is still there but i'm not much concerned. I think all the 'old' injury area woke up again and will go back to sleep soon.

    I love when you-all write a lot. I tend to over-do as well so I love the company. Anyway, what I know most with walking is that it is considered one of the best exercises ever. Also using resistance ( stretchy bands) is marvelous. For me, it is just the discipline of taking the time to do it. I do love to walk but the last year and slightly more has made it so difficult. Just getting dressed a lot of days has been a strain. Spring will give me a big lift.

    Karen, glad to hear you are getting a lot of info for yourself. I like the idea of eating a bit more and using the protein drink as something to sip on for a calorie supplement. I do know that most times I've heard that eating small meals etc. through the day don't tend to help in a need to gain situation although it might keep nutrient levels a bit more stable.

    Ireland -- oh the dreams.

    Mary, you are staying busy. I so admire anyone who can sew. Every time you mention it, I feel a little stab ( but its a good feeling all the same) of envy. What a blessing.

    Carole, you just keep on, keeping on and seem so un-ruffled. I do know that the weather where you are is bothersome for you. Hope your Dh is doing better now.

    Good news !! Mr. Vernon V.A. called and I can go in Monday and have this dressing dealt with. I'm fortunate that I was able to have the JC Cardiologists turn over my after-care to the V.A. here locally and not have to keep going over across the river to JC.

    Hope you are all going to have a wonderful day.

  • minustwo
    minustwo Member Posts: 13,360
    edited April 2023

    Carole: I really liked Orson Scott Card's Women of Genesis series. The books in this series are centered on the wives of the Biblical Patriarchs of the Book of Genesis. To date three books have been published;

  • mcbaker
    mcbaker Member Posts: 1,833
    edited April 2023

    Interesting, minustwo. I might dip into them to check out OSC's view on Biblical polygamy.

    One of my favorite authors is Mary Doria Russell. She wrote "The Sparrow" and "Children of God", based on the life of St. Isaac Jogues S.J., but in an extraterrestrial science fiction context. Really blew my mind. She converted from Catholicism to (Reform?) Judaism at some point or another. I also enjoyed her "Thread of Grace" I read "Doc" but it was not as impressive. "Dreamers of the Day" looks interesting.

  • mcbaker
    mcbaker Member Posts: 1,833
    edited April 2023

    I think I will take a break from BC.O. Between exhaustion and the meds I need to take in order to sleep I am not completely on my toes. If I have offended anyone, I am sorry.

  • illinoislady
    illinoislady Member Posts: 39,835
    edited April 2023

    Mary, I hope it will not be too long of a break, but I think I understand.


  • betrayal
    betrayal Member Posts: 3,363
    edited April 2023

    Wrote a post this AM and do not see it here. After 3 years of the guest room serving as a temporary storage unit, I decided yesterday was a good day to remove all the leftover items stored there. They are in DD's old bedroom for the moment so I can take my time culling through them to decide what goes back in the room and what will be rehomed/donated. I wiped down the windows, tossed the sheers which were old and took down the drapes I had made eons ago. They are in DD's room for the moment and still in great shape so I have to decide their fate. I had purchased a new bedspread for the day bed and new sheers several months ago.

    I started painting the windows yesterday and finished the trim today. I still need to paint the grids that go in the windows. Today I finished painting the baseboards, the closet doors and trim, the hall door and trim. I washed the glass in the windows and put the clean screens back in. I had vacuumed the rug, the floors and dusted prior to painting to keep the dust down. Tomorrow I will wipe down the furniture and wash the hard wood floors. Still a lot to do since I want to do through each drawer in the dresser to see what has been ignored now for over 3 years. Have a sense of accomplishment now the painting is done because it brightened the room. The trundle that went with the day bed has gone missing so I reordered one that will be delivered by Friday. I have the mattress for it and it appears to be in good shape.

    Yesterday was summery and today is more spring like. Able to open the windows to air out the room and it hastened the paint drying.

    Illinoislady, hope arm discomfort is short-lived and it is a good sign you can get the dressing off soon.

    Karen, would milkshakes or smoothies be more acceptable that trying to eat? Hope you can find a solution soon. I will gladly part with some of my adipose tissue.

    Mary, I enjoy your posts and will miss you if you decide to take a break from BCO.

    Hope everyone has a wonderful day.

  • cardplayer
    cardplayer Member Posts: 2,051
    edited April 2023

    Mary - hope you take a short break from BCO.

    Betrayal - I'm amazed by your energy. By 3-4 in the afternoon, I'm beat. I still have chores unfinished from Monday. I also keep losing posts. But I think it's a distraction issue for me I type something up, get involved in something that DH needs or a call and never submit. I probably should go back to typing in notepad.

  • mavericksmom
    mavericksmom Member Posts: 1,275
    edited April 2023

    Wow Betrayal! When you're done painting at your house, want to come and do some painting at mine? No? Well, worth asking, LOL! Seriously, you amaze and inspire me too!

    I hope to get some of my old energy back, but right now I have a lot of aches and pains. I hope they are just a normal part of having two surgeries in less than 5 months. Also, crossing fingers I don't have bone mets.

    Cardplayer, I am right with you around 3-4 in the afternoon!

    Karen, I found my bill from Invitae, July of 2020, when I had 54 genes tested. I paid out of pocket and it was $250. I felt it was well worth it for peace of mind. I had no defective genes, and that alone was good as I know I didn't pass any defect from the 54+ genes that were tested, on to my kids. The downside is that for me it didn't matter that I didn't have a genetic defect, I still got breast cancer three times and still worry about metastasis.

    Mary, I too hope your break is short, but peaceful and relaxing.

    I was kind of sad when I read Mary's comment about hoping not to have offended anyone. Honestly, maybe I missed it, but I saw nothing posted from her that seemed offensive. I think we KNOW that nobody here would intentionally say something to offend anyone else. The love and sharing here is what has gotten each of us through so much and we will continue to do that! I am thankful for each and every one of you!


  • betrayal
    betrayal Member Posts: 3,363
    edited April 2023

    MM: LOL, I will pass on painting at your house since I still have the windows in the dining room and the laundry room to repaint. They are not on the schedule for now because I want to focus on the guest room.

    I also have several other projects on board. I have 2 dolls that I have been trying to get repaired. One is my Saucy Walker from when I was a child who has wonky eyes and needs her limbs restrung. I have been trying to get this one place to respond but she keeps saying she doesn't get the photos I send. The second is a doll I bought my DD when she was young. We bought it in Europe and she was made in Italy. Her eyes have gotten wonky and she no longer moves her limbs. She is large enough she can wear newborn clothes. I have no idea where her original clothes are.

    I have a bowed glass china closet that was my DH's grandmother's that needs to be refinished as well as her old Singer sewing machine (tread operated). I have 2 of her old dining room chairs that I want to refinish and reupholster seats. I used to love to strip and refinish furniture. So my "to-do" list is kind of full right now. All of this was on pause while we were under restoration and I never expected it would be for 3 very long years so now I am playing catch-up.

    I agree with the comment about Mary hoping not to having offended anyone. I did not see evidence of this and think we can all agree to disagree at times with no malice intended.

    Tired now and will take the evening off. My knees are killing me and I did contact MD for Orthovisc injections. Last ones were July '22 to left knee only, so I am due and will add right knee to list since it recently flared up. Surprisingly was able to get an appointment for consult on 5/5. I think I have a fluid collection in each knee and that is what is keeping me up at night. Using generic Voltaren but relief is not the best. Tried adding oral Tylenol last night and it seemed to help. Sitting aggravates it but so does prolonged standing. Getting old is hell for sure but the alternative is unwelcome. LOL.

    Updating wills and durable power of attorney so will see lawyer tomorrow. This should be final visit. Another item checked off "to-do" list. Making progress even if slower than I like. Have a good evening.

  • petite1
    petite1 Member Posts: 2,294
    edited April 2023

    MC, Love what you post. Don't take too long of a break.

    Jackie, Glad you are home from the hospital ordeal.

    Sandy, Your trip sounds amazing.

    Karen, I ate protein bars during BC. The MO recommended them due to weight loss. I still eat them for a snack.

    Betrayal, wow.

    I am not feeling 100% this evening. Had a low BP issue today. I went to a luncheon and a music therapy demonstration, came home and slept for over an hour. When I woke up I felt dizzy and not right. So drank water and had a cup of coffee. I am not right yet, but better.

  • illinoislady
    illinoislady Member Posts: 39,835
    edited April 2023

    Just jumping in to say you all are such a very, very loving group. I feel as though I make a lot of mistakes and yet I will say many yrs. ago when I think I was somewhat better, I worked very hard to keep this thread here when a poor mis-guided soul nearly destroyed it. So mistakes and all I wish to stay and be a part of something that brightens my day and makes me feel I'm still worth my salt. At least most of the time but I know I'm not great with the solutions for people.

    I'm don't have tons of experiences so that I can be a help. I try a bit harder to be cheerful and upbeat and help others be that way too. That is one of the biggest reasons for the quotes.

    So love you all and you too Mary. All of you give me different aspects of your personalities and the world to enjoy.

  • karen1956
    karen1956 Member Posts: 4,630
    edited April 2023

    Just skimmed most of the posts as I wanted to reply to Maverick about walking. I've been seeing the same MO for 17 years and he knows me well. I was walking three times/day so walking once/day is much less. Most of our walks are about 25 minutes - sometimes longer on the week-end. After dinner I walked for 15 minutes - DH walked the regular walk. I think he's trying to keep me active and in shape with the next phase of treatment.

    We were disappointed with endocrinologist appt today. We like her so it's just the expectations we went in with and she and Hematologist have different opinions why my Calcium is high. But anyways at this point it's wait and see - she doesn't want to rush into surgery - so that's what we will do.

    Heading to bed. Will check in when I get up in the morning. Sweet dreams

  • reader425
    reader425 Member Posts: 958
    edited April 2023

    Just wanted to echo the fact that I too enjoy the thread, not posting as much as some. Love the differing daily schedules noted, skills and gifts used, and books to read.

    Carole, I read through the Bible in a year once but in order to get through a lot of the Old Testament (names, lists, etc.) I used a book that organized the daily reading with a small section of the OT, a small section of the New Testament then a Psalm and Proverb. In that format each day. It was helpful to me to do it that way, at least once.

    Karen, we crossed paths...thinking of you, sending cyberhugs as you navigate through this.

  • mavericksmom
    mavericksmom Member Posts: 1,275
    edited April 2023

    illinoislady, what you add to this topic is too much to measure with words! That is what I love about this group, everyone contributes, everyone supports. We come from different backgrounds, have or had different careers, job, etc. What we all have is an understanding of a beast of a disease, breast cancer, and compassion for others who "understand" how we feel. We share thoughts and ideas, and no matter if someone goes into a long rant, or simply says "it's sunny today," it matters to all of us!

    reader, it doesn't matter how much or little one posts on here, this group feels like family, and so good to read your thoughts!

    Petite, I hope you are feeling better this morning! Low BP is concerning! I feel like I do my own "music therapy" daily, I don't think I could get through my day without music! But, that said, your music therapy session sounds intriguing! When you feel up to it, I would love to know what that is.

    Karen, I am sorry about your feelings for your endocrinologist. I have been in that situation where I felt committed to a doctor, liked the doctor but was uneasy about their position on an issue, yet didn't want to change doctors in the middle of treatment. Having your friend who is an endocrinologist, can be both a blessing and a curse. When your friend and doctor view things differently, as they do about the surgery, it can make it harder to stay the course and have confidence with your current endocrinologist. But, if they feel the same on issues, it does the opposite, and can make you feel better.

    As for walking, Karen, thanks for sharing! You are very lucky to have your DH to walk with. My DH has such difficulty walking so walking for exercise with him can't happen (I still walk with him, just don't get exercise from it) and my sister who lives nearby and walks daily, goes too fast for me. I guess I just need to pick going to the gym or walking in the neighborhood and stick with it!

    Today, DH and I are headed to Home Depot. He wants to get some more weed killer and something to keep the rabbits from eating our plants. We also want to look at their dishwashers. The one we have is 18 yrs old, had motor replaced 9 years ago. It is "on its way out," I know I could get along without a dishwasher, but I am spoiled and we don't need top of the line as we don't run it daily.

    Sunny today, Wishing everyone a wonderful day!

  • carolehalston
    carolehalston Member Posts: 8,214
    edited April 2023

    I echo the "wow" for Betrayal's energy and accomplishments.

    Petite, I hope you are feeling better. I have sugar level swings that make me feel weak, the reason I can't go too many hours without eating.

    Jackie, I vaguely remember that time when this group split. As I recall the reason had to do with religion. Recently I wondered whether the other group is still active.

    Occasionally the "conversation" veers into subjects that are of no interest to me and I just read the posts and don't comment. Often I don't have any knowledge or experience to share.

    I do have a lot of experience with walking. I have walked thousands of miles over the years for exercise and damaged my feet in the process. Now I limit walking on the street and always wear good shoes recommended by my podiatrist. The last few years I have worn Hokas. My sandals are SAS. I haven't worn heels in probably ten years.

    Another beautiful day here.

  • illinoislady
    illinoislady Member Posts: 39,835
    edited April 2023

    There's always room for expressing our uniqueness and love and changing the world with it, no matter what our position in life. I saw on the news a New York City subway conductor who sent out poetry, love, and messages of good cheer over his loudspeaker system instead of the usual "Stand clear of the closing doors." He is a true original. So are you—if you will simply learn to express your originality. Share your life with those who are also on the journey and you will change the world. - Bernie Siegel

  • betrayal
    betrayal Member Posts: 3,363
    edited April 2023

    Sounds like the above quote was written expressly to describe what occurs on this forum. Illinoislady, you serve as the "conductor" since you exemplify the actions of that subway conductor on a daily basis. While our journeys may vary due to our individuality and originality, we all share the need to connect with others to enrich our lives. We are changing the world even if it is only one person at a time. My life has been enriched by the contributors to this forum. Thanks for keeping us viable all these years, Illinoislady.

  • illinoislady
    illinoislady Member Posts: 39,835
    edited April 2023

    Good Morning. So, here this quote turns up in my in-box this morning. We are all unique and as Carole said -- sometimes something may not interest us or sometimes as in my case, it is over my head, but that is what tends to make me want to explore outside of what would otherwise be a very small world for me.

    Yes, it was religion Carole that caused most of the issues here at one time, but many people were treated to highly negative and extremely challenging comments about all aspects of their lives as well. I'm so thrilled we were able to grow past it all.

    I too have walked miles and miles, but chemo did something of a job on my feet. Now with the maladies of the past couple of yrs. (how did so much time go by so fast) I'm not walking as I would like. I'm hoping that this year (spring and summer) I can work on re-establishing something of a walking program. Health matters seem to have come at real in-opportune times -- usually just when I was hoping to make positive strides toward good goals. Now, I'm trying not to plan too heavily. Trying to sneak it in I guess.

    I do have hopes that this implant will be of help. It is, in 60% of the cases the Cardiologist said. Mainly I think in the area of correcting my milli-second lapse in heartbeat which makes my implant an ICD rather than Pacemaker. Hopefully will give me some increase to my ejection fraction which had gone to 20%. Didn't get the actual number till the day of this implant. Wow !! No wonder I was dragging around like a slug. I do have a "different" feeling now which I am still assessing.

    I have been staying with Sketcher shoes but have wondered if I should be looking for an addition of some kind. One of he reasons I like that brand is the ability to toss them in the washer. Living in the woods as we do can get shoes dirty easy and so much easier to spark them up by tossing in the washer. I think I'll start a list of brands to look into. These Hokas will go on that list.

    I hope you are all going to have a beautiful day.

    Getting anxious to see the changes that are coking to BC. Org. I hope it will remain easy to use. Tsk, Tsk on me. Thinking ahead of being electronically challenged like I am.

  • minustwo
    minustwo Member Posts: 13,360
    edited April 2023

    Let's hear it for HOKAS Carole. That's what my podiatrist also recommended. They're not cheap, but are really supportive. But you're right about washing Jackie - I scrub them by hand.

    During the entire first year of COVID, I walked 6 miles a day every day. Then the last year - not even 2 blocks. The only way I could do it was to tie on my shoes the minute I rolled out of bed & head out. Of course that means you basically can't ever schedule anything in the morning. Apparently I can't program myself to do that just 3 days a week. And with the heat & humidity in Houston, it's a pain to walk just 4 blocks and have to shower again.

  • mavericksmom
    mavericksmom Member Posts: 1,275
    edited April 2023

    I feel as if I was punched in the gut and have no explanation for my emotions! I just received a Breast Cancer Survivorship Care Plan in the mail today in a big 9X12 envelope and it really upset me. On the so-called personalized care plan, it listed each of my doctors and how often I should see them, and personalized details under each heading.

    The heading for each topic is bolded, including the one that said "Visit Frequency For Your Mammography, as indicate by your medical team:" it went on to tell me how often to have a mammogram. I will never have another mammogram; I don't have my breasts anymore and I miss them! I never felt attractive, and the only part of my body I liked were my breasts. Now I have two mounds, neither resembling anything like my former breasts, they don't even look similar! To be honest, I hate them, especially the one with the implant! I look down and I want to cry. I feel as if people think I should be so thankful I didn't die from cancer and that I am a horrible person if I get upset over losing my breasts, so I never say anything about that to anyone.

    The letter was sent by a nurse navigator who I never met but left me a folder of information at my breast surgeon's desk when I saw him for my biopsy results last summer. I don't even know what a breast navigator does! I called one time to ask a question and the number was for central scheduling! The woman who answered never heard of the nurse navigator! I remember being upset by that because the paper I was given said to call that number if I had any questions! If all nurse navigators do is co-ordinate patient scheduling between the team, then why does she need to be a nurse? Why is she sending me things about my health care? Why doesn't she stick to scheduling?

    I typed a letter to send her but I haven't decided if I am going to mail it or not. It isn't mean and was written professionally, with respect. I am leaning towards mailing it because I didn't deserve to have her upset me today! I know it is probably required by law to send this out, but then someone from my doctor's office should sent it, not someone who never met me and clearly doesn't know my medical history! It didn't help that I am seeing my PCP on Monday out of concerns that could be from metastasis (but probably aren't).

    I was having a really good day. My DH and I had an enjoyable time at Home Depot, bought some plants for the planters, even though it is still a bit early to plant outdoors.

    Sorry for the rant. I think we all have emotional scars from different events, and sometimes something as simple as a letter in the mail, reminds us the wound that caused the scar was never fully healed.

  • illinoislady
    illinoislady Member Posts: 39,835
    edited April 2023

    Good for you, sharing about something so painful. Part of the big reason we are all here. That said, it has been a very long time for my original BC diagnosis and treatment since it was back in 2007. I DID have a "Navigatort" but it was with my consent and as well a personal meeting in her office so she could explain who she was and what help she could give that hopefully would help me traverse my diagnosis.

    We got along famously, but I do feel it came about more from how we were introduced to each other. I certainly did not get anything 'out of the blue' through the mail from her. She always let me know in advance it was coming. She did in fact have good reason at times to mail things. Since she was becoming a adoptive parent (she did have other kids) of a baby girl for the first time she sometimes was out of the office a bit more. Knowing how adrift and upset I could be shed actually gave me her home phone number although I tried my best not to use it.

    I would likely send that letter. Several reasons, but one of the biggest -- she is a stranger to you. You are not some youngster without resources and you have been around this block a number of times. I'm amazed in a way that this happened although as described above I had a great experience with my Nurse Navigator who basically was a go-to for resources when I didn't have a clue as to what I would need. You do not fit that description at all. Have things changed THAT much. People should still be told what services are offered and have a chance to pick and choose. Especially with a cancer history.

    The fact that you feel caught off guard and invaded in your personal space without any prior permission is enough in my view to warrant a letter about your feelings. It might save someone else from the same thing.

    I am so sorry that you've ended up with the pleasant morning/day being ruined. So many of you ( yourself, Karen, Mary, Petite--hope I didn't forget anyone) are struggling with issues and do not need more.

    I may or may not have helped, but I am with you and cheering you on hoping to restore a bit of sunshine. Hugs. You are cared about.

  • minustwo
    minustwo Member Posts: 13,360
    edited April 2023

    MM - I think you should send the letter. I had a nurse navigator that I liked who helped me get things done when there was a hold up between all the doctors - MO/Surgeon/PS/Rad Onc/neurologist/etc.. But I had to find out about such things myself by asking the 2nd time around. And I agree - breasts are gone never to return - that is not a good thing to be reminded about with calls for mammograms (which I also got). . When you add in neuropathy & lymphadema & the lack of nipples - it's hard to consider feeling sexy ever again. Hang in there girl...

  • cardplayer
    cardplayer Member Posts: 2,051
    edited April 2023

    Petite - hope you get your low BP issue resolved. I had low BP last summer. It was due to being on blood pressure medication when I didn’t need to be in it. I would feel faint after exercise, so it wasn’t positional or caused by other issues. Feel better.

    Carole - I wear Hoka Bondi 7. I found that they are the most comfortable shoes for my neuropathy. I tried a variety of shoes that just didn’t work for me. I have several pairs. Just wish they were cheaper. I know they make sandals and may order a pair some day. I tried OOFOS sandals but they didn’t work for me.

    I didn’t know the history of the group Carole and Illinois. I know we steer clear of religion and politics in this topic, which is perfect. We have things in common and it’s our differences that make the topic interesting and entertaining at times. And there’s a wealth of knowledge in the group.

    MinusTwo - I’m impressed that you could walk 6 miles in a day. We try to do 2 miles everyday and have been walking earlier because of the warmer weather.

    Mavericksmom - sorry about your experience with the nurse navigator.I didn’t have good experience with nurse navigator at our center. I contacted them when I was first diagnosed as I wanted to update my medical power of attorney and advance directive. That was my only interaction until I got my incorrect survivorship materials before my treatment was completed. Quite disconcerting.

    I tried mindful meditation earlier today. It was an interesting experience and I’ll probably go again. I’ll prob try to do some work on my own and meditate. Very relaxing. Wish I had tried some of the things I’m doing now ( REIKI, sound baths, etc) to help manage stress and anxiety, years ago.

    Karen, Illinois and Mary - hope you’re feeling better.

    Have a good evening.

  • karen1956
    karen1956 Member Posts: 4,630
    edited April 2023

    MM - sorry that you had to deal with this. Thankfully, I've never had to deal with this. I got a call for my annual mammo a year after diagnosis and I called them and politely read them the riot act. They said it was an automated call and they would take me off the list. Thankfully the was the last time I got such a call. I agree with the other gals, you should mail the letter. Good luck wit your PCP appointment.

    If I don't like something that is written - I can just skipped it or whatever. I typically would not respond cuz no one means to cause any harm or hurt feelings. In the early days, I was on a thread and people would get so upset and then leave. They took things so personally - I figure we're all entitled to our opinions and in real life we would not be mean so why on social media. Okay, enough of my rant.

    MM - my DH is the same age as me - 6 months older, so I'm very lucky to have him as a partner. We met in a university class. And the rest is history!

    Going to go watch a movie with DH.

    Sweet dreams