2010 Sisters

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  • tryn2staycalm
    tryn2staycalm Member Posts: 470

    Teklya - Sorry you had such a crappy week.  And I thought mine was bad.  Hugs, not as bad as yours.  We'll get through this together.  Better days ahead.

    Chemo Buddy,

    Cathy

  • SharonNM
    SharonNM Member Posts: 17

    Hi All!  I haven't posted for a long time but think of all of you all the time - and just tried to get caught up in the posts.  So many new people.

    I joined thousands on the Race for the Cure walk last Sunday - I even wore the pink survivor's t-shirt. I was so gratified to see the great turn-out.  I felt very humble that so many were willing to spend their Sunday morning to support this cause.  I really thought that breast cancer was "old news"!  Apparently not.  Anyway - I did walk with the survivors' group and one of the women I talked to was a 45! year survivor!  She had one recurrence and beat that too!  I can't imagine what her treatment was like 45 years ago.  I was there as a six month survivor!  Can't wait to be a 5 or 10 year survivor.  Best wishes to all of you!  Let's beat this thing!

  • sweetaerobabe
    sweetaerobabe Member Posts: 230

    I have a question for the partial mast ladys, I noticed when I get up from from a laying position, I get a sharp, burning pain in my incision area that last for a few seconds then it goes away. (very painful though) Then for the most part I am pain free. Just wondering if this was normal. Maybe the preasure of the tissue going back into place?

    Kristy

  • janet in virginia
    janet in virginia Member Posts: 923

    Hi sweet - I think it has to do with the normal healing process inside -- nerve endings getting reconnected, etc. 

  • LadyinBama
    LadyinBama Member Posts: 993

    Teklya: Me too! In the hospital 10/6 to 10/12. Had to go back to ER this a.m. with fever, tests were ok so they let me come back home. I'm under "house arrest" though, but that is fine so long as I don't have to stay in the hospital. We can do it. I was resigned to just doing whatever I need to do whether I like it or not, so I packed up all kinds of crap and took it to the ER with me expecting to spend another week in the hospital. They can't, so far, figure out what was/is causing my fever/infection, so  my chemo is on hold until we get things figured out.

    Everybody keep on keeping on, we'll make it. I had two sweet friends walk in a breast cancer walk in my honor today.

  • sweetaerobabe
    sweetaerobabe Member Posts: 230

    Thanks Janetinvirginia,

    I figured it was normal, seems worse now that I am able to lay flat in bed instead of this uncomfortable recliner. All of my stitches are on the inside as well, could be tugging at them. I go to the BS Wednesday to get these steristrips off and hopefullu a full (CLEAN) pathology report.

    Kristy

  • rachel5738
    rachel5738 Member Posts: 658

    Hi Teklya--had my first Taxotere this past Thursday--two more chemo left aswell. Doc told me to stay home all week, keep away from ANYONE who is remotely not feeling well, rest, rest, rest, drink lots of fluids and fingers crossed for blood check next Friday. I will hermit it up this week--don't want to get sick again. Best of luck to you aswell---just keep crossing them off--we can do this :)

  • barbaraa
    barbaraa Member Posts: 3,548

    Bama, Sweetie and Rach - (((HUGS))) try to get some rest. It can only help.

  • janet in virginia
    janet in virginia Member Posts: 923

    LadyinBama - I just have to say your dogs are too cute.  Makes me smile when I see those ears!  Hope your fever breaks soon.

  • sweetaerobabe
    sweetaerobabe Member Posts: 230

    Yes LadyinBama, feel better soon.

    (((Hugs))) to all

    Kristy

  • cyntyler
    cyntyler Member Posts: 2

    Hi,

    My first post, but have been active reader since dx of IDC on 9/16/10. My first experience with breast cancer at age 56. Only family history is one aunt (dad's side) that unfortunately was diagnosed in her 40s with breast cancer and died in her 50s after a long, strong fight. I am embarrassed to say that I am surprised by my ignorance about the disease. Brief history of my disease and staging: Found lump while showering 8/21, saw primary care physician 8/23, had mammogram & breast ultrasound 8/31, breast biopsy 9/14, results 9/16, breast MRI 9/20, breast surgeon consult 9/22, axillary node biopsy 9/24, bone scan 9/27, PET/CT scan 9/28, oncology consult 10/1, visit with cardiologist to get clearance for surgery 10/4, consult with genetics counselor 10/5, unilateral (right) mastectomy 10/7, post-surgery visit w/surgeon for pathology results 10/12 (two tumors 4.2 cm & 1 cm/0 of 4 nodes)  and on Monday I will see my oncologist again to talk about next steps in treatment plan. I am currently recouping from surgery at home and so far am feeling pretty well. Up to this point in my life I had considered myself healthy. I am looking forward to sharing this life altering experience with others.

    Cindy T

  • janet in virginia
    janet in virginia Member Posts: 923

    Hello cyntyler.  I'm glad you found BCO - has been a lifesaver of support and wealth of information.  It's truly a shock and a whirlwind isn't it?   It seems like everything happens so fast, but in slow motion at the same time.  Glad you're recovering well from surgery - I had a left mastec (no reconstruction) almost 3 weeks ago and have to say it's much easier than the appendectomy (of all things) that I had in July!  There are tons of threads on many different aspects as you have probably already discovered - you should drop in to the October mastectomy to say hello.  Take care & good luck w/onc visit on Monday.  That's the phase I'm in now. 

  • omaz
    omaz Member Posts: 4,218
    Welcome Cindy - Glad you are recovering well and your nodes were negative, that is terrific!  
  • tryn2staycalm
    tryn2staycalm Member Posts: 470

    Sisters - Sorry to hear some of you are having it so rough including hospital stays.  That makes it harder than sick at home for sure.  Hugs to you all and hope you will have better days ahead.  And  Y E S  we can and will do this together.

    Cathy

  • Jalsmama55
    Jalsmama55 Member Posts: 29
    Hi 2010 sisters! I'm officially joining this group, unfortunately haha! I had lumpectomy 7-30 after finding lump 7-19 and having mammo and ultrasound. The MRI in August showed 3 more tumors so had biopsy. Same path as lumpectomy. Opted for BMX and had that and ALND 9-14. Final path: Multifocal Pleomorphic ILC. Had a total of 6 more tumors aside from one taken during lumpectomy. sizes were: 2.8cm, 2.1cm, and 5 more were under 1cm.. also 16 nodes were retrieved and 2 were positive. 1 being the sentinel node and another adjacent to it. Also had LCIS on the left so I'm thrilled that i chose BMX! That sneaky lobular cancer didnt show up on 3 mammograms, 3 ultrasounds and an MRI. I cant believe I had so much going on in the right one and none of it showed up with multiple tests! YIKES!! I have had lymphedema in my right arm since surgery and will be seeing a specialist asap. Starting chemo wednesday 10-20 and couldnt be more nervous.. Just nervous about gettijng sick from my kids, but other than that, I can deal with whatever this nasty little beast has to throw at me Tongue out. Just wanted to introduce myself and look forward to getting to know you all!  Prayers, good juju and love to all! XOXOXO
  • FireKracker
    FireKracker Member Posts: 5,858

    Good Mornig sistas...........damn.2 newbes in one day...that suks. im soooo mad. and we all are so shocked.its amazing the steps we go through with bc.i remember my first thought when i was dx.I THOUGHT THEY HAD THIS UNDER CONTROL.

    WE NEED A GROU HUGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG.GOD BLESS OUR NEW SISTAS AND ALL OF US FIGHTING THIS MONSTER.

    K

  • omaz
    omaz Member Posts: 4,218
    Hi Jalsmama - you have a great attitude!  Welcome to the group.
  • redninrah
    redninrah Member Posts: 366

    isnt it so scary that mammograms dont pick up much and MRI's does-scares the life of me!

  • DesignerMom
    DesignerMom Member Posts: 730

    jalsmama-  Welcome!  These ladies are the best.  Just ask away if there is anything we can help with.

    grannydukes-  If outrage could kill cancer, you would have blown it off the map LONG ago!  I think you might have been a prize fighter in a former life!  Love your attitude!

    calleigh- I just completed CMF and can tell you it is VERY doable.  The first one scared the you know what out of me.  Then I realized it was VERY doable.  I scheduled my treatments on Fridays, came home and took it easy over the weekend. By Monday or Tuesday, I was functioning quite normally.  I will suggest asking if the steroids are necessary.  They only gave me a tiny bit in my infusion.  Steroids have their own SE, including total sleep disruption.  You need your sleep while going through chemo!  Just remember your two little one and you will know why you are doing it.  Feel free to PM me with any CMF questions.  You are going to be fine, you'll see.

  • TMarina
    TMarina Member Posts: 297

    Welcom Cindy and Jalsmama!  Glad you found us!  Jalsmama--What type of chemo will you be doing?  Both of you be sure to ask us any questions you have!

    Calleigh-->Like Designermom said, CMF is very doable, but try to get as much help with the kids and house as you can.  You need to be able to rest, and not have too much stress.  You know those people who offer help?  Say YES!  Meals, childcare, housework, rides, whatever--take as much help as you can.  People wantto help.  This was a very hard lesson for me to learn!  My children are all grown (youngest just turned 19), and I really feel for those who have young children.  I'm sure there are others on BCO you can connect with.  I'll be thinking about you this week--keep us posted!

    I had mammo, biopsy, and MRI--none found the 3.5cm IDC tumor.  Thought I was having the lumpectomy for an area of DCIS w/microinvasion.  Ended up having 3 nodes (snb was "just a precaution--we won't find anything") and needed a mx--- found DCIS all throughout the breast.  I had NO IDEA this was even possible--to find so much cancer and not be able to see it in any tests.  Now, of course, I wonder what is in the other breast!

    Take care ladies!

    Tina

  • kira1234
    kira1234 Member Posts: 754

    Tina,

    Is CMF more doable than TC. I had to stop TC because if the infection i got. It took 6 weeks to get it under control. I don't really know what my onc. will suggest now, but am curious if it is easier.

  • redninrah
    redninrah Member Posts: 366

    TMarina_ how can a MRI not pick up a 3.5CM IDC. That just appalls me. Well at least it was found and your on the road to recovery, but ya, now im questioning the all clear MRI in the my other breast, When does one know to get a 2nd opinion? Well when im done with my chemo and rads,and once ive got the all clear, i too will be seeking a 2nd opinion. 

    this chemo has really taken a toll on my life and i dont want to every deal with it again!

  • TMarina
    TMarina Member Posts: 297

    Kira-->I didn't do CMF, but from what I've heard, it's one of the easier ones.  Each type/stage of cancer has a chemo regimen that is best for it.  For me, stage 2b, 3 nodes, and her2+, the more aggressive AC and Taxol was the best fit.  Although sometimes there is more than one that will work.  Sorry to hear you had an infection for 6 weeks! 

    redninrah-->there was a lot of things I didn't know about breast cancer, but that was the most surprising.  When the calcifications were looked at closer on a 2nd mammo, the radiologist assured me that there was no hurry to get it biopsied, if it was cancer it was "just" DCIS, and not invasive.  Glad I didn't listen to him and wait longer!  That guy should be fired!

  • redninrah
    redninrah Member Posts: 366

    tell me about it!

    well as long as we are all well aware that dont take any thing lightly- get the proper diagnosis, and ask ask questions.

  • SharonNM
    SharonNM Member Posts: 17

    Calleigh - had to respond to your posting because your feelings are so similar to mine when I started chemo.  I had SLN biopsy the week before chemo so my right side was sore - then had the port in 2 days before chemo so my left side was sore.  I told my husband to cancel the chemo as I just couldn't do anymore that week.  On chemo day he suggested we just go in to see what the oncologist had to say about a delay.  Next thing I know I am sitting in the infusion room getting chemo - I slept through most of it since I asked for an anti-anxiety med to be put in the infusion.  I had AC (pretty harsh chemo drugs) and as everyone says - it ended up being very doable.  Certainly not fun - but doable.  No real nausea - just tired.  Good luck to you!  I will be thinking of you on Tuesday.

  • FireKracker
    FireKracker Member Posts: 5,858

    No one wants to show up for the drs. appointments.everyone just does it.just go girl.we all did it.yes its hard but remember we are here to help you.take a tape recorder with you and be prepared with all your questions.ask the sistas anything.we will help.JUST SHOW UP.

    Designer----my family calles me the warden.and i have a granddaughter who is warden jr.

    This bc makes my blood boil.look how many people are on the 2010 thread.and so young.

    God bless us all and give us strength to fight this giant monster.

    K

  • Elisimo
    Elisimo Member Posts: 1,262

    My cough has almost completely gone since we are home. I have not coughed any this afternoon or evening and there has been not fever for a couple of days so everything is a go for my next treatment on the 19th..  I have 3 appointments this next Tuesday!  Why do I do this to myself.  I pick up my contacts and new glasses at 9:30, physical therapy at 11:30, and onco appointment followed by an Aredia IV from 1:00 - 4:00.  I think I may change the physical therapy or at least cut it short so that I can go get my DH since he wants to go with me to the onco and be with me during my treatment.  I think I may have him go back to work and then come get me when the treatment is over.  That is a long time for him to sit and wait with nothing really to do.  Especially since it will be his 2nd day back after being out for a week so we could go to CA to see our oldest DD and her family.

    Think I need to head to bed as I am starting to ramble.  Hope everyone has a restful evening.

    Amy Jo 

  • tryn2staycalm
    tryn2staycalm Member Posts: 470

    Calleigh-  Just want to tell you that you are just normal with your fears and not wanting to show up.  I doubt that there are many of us who didn't at least give that option a thought (not showing up).  Doing it though is an entirely different thing.  The fear of the unknown is a monster.  Yet when we get there we find a way of dealing with it.  Counting down the treatments one at a time now and doing what I must along with many of my sistas.  Remember there is strength in numbers and OMG the numbers are sadly rising.  Welcome to our newest recruits.

    Cathy

  • janicemarie3
    janicemarie3 Member Posts: 20
    I was diagnosed 1/7/10 with Stage IV when I arrived for my mastectomy.  The doctor had done a PET scan the day before surgery to make sure it wasn't in any other places.  I arrived for surgery and that is when she told me it had spread to my bones.   I am a 32 year old mother of three.  I finished my chemo 4/23/10 and am now on Herceptin and Zometa every three weeks indefiantely.  It is nice to have a place  to come and talk with others who have been recently diagnosed. 
  • kira1234
    kira1234 Member Posts: 754

    Calleigh,

    Boy can I relate. I just got a call from the BS for another operation Wednesday. The last thing I want is to go for more surgery, but of course I will because I know I have to.