Any ladies from WISCONSIN??
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Welcome, charliegirl. You have alot of things to think about this week, and I hope you sort it all out so you feel you are making the right choices for yourself. AS you probably already know, there are choices. Others will chime in and help you though this. Will hope you share your questions and decisions with us cheeseheads. Badgers' suggestion to have someone with you is wise. I'm a nurse, I thought I had it all together----nope----lots of questions I didn't think to ask, and didn't even KNOW to ask until I started checking things out here and elsewhere. Hugs to you across the miles.
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Hi WI gals.
Last week my husband found in NJ the little baby 7 oz bottles of beer I only ever saw in WI.
I didn't get to drink any but they were so cute and reminded me of when I moved to WI I kissed one.
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back at'cha cookie! 0 -
What a day!!! I am trying to be patient through all of this (it's not one of my virtues!!) but today really tested me!! Last Friday I saw my surgeon, to check in, after receiving news of a second cancer. Originally diagnosed with ductal in the left, then after breast MRI, they found lobular in the right. I told her that I was leaning towards mastectomy, even though she told me that I could have a lumpectomy. I asked about delayed reconstruction and she told me that they don't recommend that...that it's not as successful. She decided I should see the PS's to hear my options, and to go back to my oncologist to get started on ameridix. They wanted me to go back to oncologist right away, so they got me in today.
So, I thought, o.k...at least I will be starting some kind of treatment.
HA!! I go to see the oncologist today, and she asked if I knew what the surgeon's plan was as far as checking lymph nodes. I said that I didn't know...she hadn't mentioned it. Originally, I already had the appt. set up for sentinal node biopsy on the left side...but that got cancelled when they found cancer on the right side. So she left the room to call her and check what the plan was...BECAUSE SHE COULDN'T GET ME STARTED ON AMERIDIX UNTIL SHE KNEW IF NODES WERE CLEAR!!!!
I was like...OMG...are you kidding me??? Why am I here???
So, when she came back in, she said the surgeon said that if I wanted the bilateral mastectomy without recon, we should just go ahead and plan that and then they could check nodes then!! Ummmm, I'm pretty sure that's what I was asking about last Friday!!
They then set me up an appt. to go back and see the surgeon next Monday!
Is it just me, or does it sound like my surgeon and my oncologist aren't in sync??? Kind of scary when you are totally trusting your care and your life to these people. Totally stressed right now...
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Oh, charlie - feels like 2 steps forward, 1 back? I also had both ductal & lobular but the ILC was found first (even though it can be sneaky, hiding on mammograms and ultrasound until it is somewhat advanced). The IDC showed up on MRI which I had done at the academic medical center I called to request referral.
If your doctors are in different offices or clinics, perhaps their systems don't communicate real well. Hopefully, they all have special interest in and do a fair amount of breast work.
I did have to wait several days and make an extra phone call when trying to get the general and plastic surgeons schedules to match up for me but the results were worth it. No need to rush into a decision: take time to investigate all your options and maybe get some second opinions.
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hi all, got out for a walk this morning while it's cool and town is quiet. Nice!
charliegirl, sorry to hear your docs aren't in synch, that's so frustrating. I found that I had to be my own care manager, as there was no one else coordinating all the activities. Different from the "olden days" where your family doc took care of everything. Hang in there! You'll have a plan in place soon.
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Visit today with the PS's. I am very interested in what they have to say...but the more I research, I'm not sure if I'm going to have reconstruction. I'm sure it will help me make up my mind. O.k...I'm not sure, but hopefully it will help!
Got a prescription for Wellbutron yesterday to help me with the smoking...I have been doing well, but still smoking a couple of day. Just another battle...as if I don't have enough battles right now!!
Hope everyone has a good day
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Carliegirl - welcome to the Cheesehead club!! As for the smoking, I too was a 30 year, pack a day smoker. I struggled with quitting prior to my surgery, but was able to cut way, way down. I used the patch to remove the habitual side of smokes (the morning smoke, good nite smoke, after lunch smoke, etc.). I then just snuck a couple here & there - took a few drags & put it out.
I had a BMX with Tissue Exp Recon on Monday, June 11th ... and I can tell you, the LAST thing I want is a smoke - as a matter of fact the thought makes me want to puke (even if I see a butt on the ground). Your PS will most likely tell you - NO smoking, NO nicotein at all as both cause vein constriction which will hinder your skin recovery. Mine told me yesterday upon my release, not even a drag as that can cause issues with the veins getting enough blood.
Sweety, I know you can do it! But remember it's all up to you - no one else. You have to make the choice and stick to it. And don't get too down if you slip - just move on - don't look back.
For all the other fellow Cheeseheads ... the wonderteam at Froedert did another fantastic job ... considering my surgery was on Monday (was about 6 hours long) I'm feeling pretty darn good today. And, Mother Nature sure has been on my side ... this weather rocks!!! As a matter of fact, I'm gonna plop on my anarondeck chair for a bit here to chill.
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my3sunz, so glad you are recovering so well, and hope it continues. Very encouraging for others anticipating surgery. Yes, gorgeous weather--too dry though--had to water alot, but skipped some as it may rain tonight. BTW, do you have help--do take advantage and take time to heal. Charliegirl, good luck with ditching the cigarettes--not easy but a great thing to accompish. So--strawberries are just about done--have picked every day since May 15--have run out of freezer space--my kids had better visit soon and take their berries and jam.DS2and fam coming Saturday, DD1 coming next weekend (my bd and our 55th wed. anniv.) so that will help. Best wishes to all.
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hi ladies, it's another beautiful day in America's Dairyland!
my3sunz, thanks for checking in, glad to hear you got through and are doing well.
charliegirl, there are all kinds of options these days. Immediate recon, delayed recon, or no recon. You can postpone that decision if you want to. I got pressure from my (male) docs to have recon but I didn't want it so they stopped pushing. This website helped in my decision-making. It's a non-profit site created by a BCO sister. http://breastfree.org/
gramamuses, I am loving the tiny sweet strawberries they've had at the farmers markets. Happy Anniversary! Just checked and the traditional gift for #55 is emeralds, pass the word LOL!
Take care everyone. ((hugs)) to all
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Thank you Badger. Didn't know emerald was for 55 yrs. I don't mind going green. Another beautiful day here but no rain last night so I'm on my way to turn on the sprinklers. Strawberries now are the size of raspberries--and I would love to stroll around the farmer's market on the square in Madison--do miss that city and don't get back often enough. Happy years living there with wonderful memories. Hope everyone is on the upswing today. Love and hugs, all.
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I'm new here..had dx of DCIS in April, Lumpectomy in late May...now, am scheduled (end of month) to start radiation on R side..I'm 62, so no spring chicken, but not looking forward to being more tired than I already am..anyone have luck with drinking energy drinks? Monster?
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Looks like we are going to get that much needed rain. We finished second crop hay yesterday, so bring it on. It was a great day as I was able to drive tractor all day and be in the field with my family. Good to have some life back to norm.
Ruby Bugonia, sorry that you had to join us. You will find answers to almost all of your questions here. What part of the state are you from? Radiation wasnt all that bad. I don't know about the energy drinks as I gave up caffeine 8 years ago because I was having so many lumps in my breasts and anxiety attacks. Wanted to avoid BC........WELL, that didnt work! I do suggest to get an aloe plant. I first used the lotion that they gave to me and then the last 3-4 days at the end I also used aloe especially at night. I had mild burning but not till the end. Good luck to you, it will be fine.
Hope everyone else is doing well. Take care
Cindi
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good morning ladies, just got back from a nice morning walk. Got sprinkled on a bit but that's OK. Cindi, yesterday was a good field day and yes we need the rain.
Welcome RubyBegonia, sorry you had to join us. I'm 52 and two years out from surgery & chemo but didn't have rads. IDK about energy drinks, I don't use them myself. Try to stay hydrated and get lots of protein to help your body rebuild. Naps are good. And of course mild exercise, even if it's just a walk down the hall and back.
LOL gramamuses, go green indeed. Madison Farmers Market is wonderful Weds treat. You can get fresh fruits & veggies, flowers & plants, baked goods & art. They also run on Sat but I'm not there weekends which is OK 'cuz I hear it's packed.
Happy Saturday everyone!
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Hey there Cheeseheads! Go figure today, the day we've planned for about 150 people to be at our eldest son's high school graduation, outdoors, is the day we have a chance of rain ... oh well ... it'll feel good since it's so warm out :-) Day 5 post-op & I'm feeling much better ... only thing that's getting to me is a bit of the blues. Not sure why, my nodes came back clear, I'm healing as well as can be expected and the tissue expanders seem to be taking ... just a little down in the dumps. Only thing I can attribute it to is missing my former friend ... senior cigararette. This too shall pass, but since I have a history of major depression, I'm not going to take this lightly and will let doctor know on Monday's visit.
Any of you gals experience a touch of the blues post surgery? BTW, I don't miss my breasts ... that part really is no big deal to me.
Off for a nice, long walk. Enjoy your Saturday ladies!
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my3sunz42: I do notice some blues when I am taking pain meds. I did also have them post bmx surgery. I attributed it to being worn out from so much chemo and then going right into surgery and the pain meds.
I read some Buddhist writing about depression a few months ago that describes it as something to observe and learn from and move through instead of avoid. The author described it as a normal process of the dips and valleys of life. He said that we need to watch for the lessons that it has to teach us about where our sadness is coming from. I found that to be very helpful. And of course, I agree with holding yourself accountable by mentioning it at doctors appointments.
Best wishes!
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Hello Wisconsin ladies!
RubyBegonia, welcome to BCO. Another good spot to connect with members who are dealing with rads at the same time you will be is the June 2012 Radiation Rads thread in the Radiation - Before, During and After forum.
The Mods
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good morning ladies, foggy here early but the sun's out now. It'll get hot fast I think.
my3sunz, the weather improved here yesterday afternoon so I'm hoping it did for you too. Congrats on graduating the first fledge. I did OK post-surgery but many women get the blues.
It helps me to remember that there are stages of grieving. Kubler-Ross says they are:
denial - anger - bargaining - depression - acceptance
It helps me to know my feelings are normal, and an expected part of the process.
Consider too the lingering effects of anesthesia. I've heard it takes at least a month for every hour you were under, to recover from the effects of sedation. Good luck at the doc's tomorrow.
Hope this finds everyone doing well. ((hugs)) to all
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Good morning ladies! Looks like another great day in the land of Cheese & Beer :-) My son's graduation party went great ... we catered a pig roast with all the fixings and it must have been good because no left overs today. I'm feeling a little better ... the blues are kind of like a roller coaster - highs & lows - JBug I love the Budhist thoughts regarding learning and living through the lows. For me I believe I'm finally coming to recognize that I was diagnosed with cancer ... I don't think it really hit me completely prior to my surgery. Badger - I also agree with the grieving process .... I just hope to get to the 'acceptance' phase ASAP :-)
Enjoy your Sunday ladies!
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my3sunz, I hope you get there, too. Don't be surprised if you go back & forth between stages. I'm not angry very much anymore but it does bubble up every once in a while. And I am in denial about several things not related to BC so I guess I need to work through some issues myself. :-)
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Well, I've got a couple of other issues to worry about ... my 1st husband, father of our 2 eldest sons and dearest friend has ALS (Lou Gehrigs) and recently had his feeding tube put in which means the disease is progressing. Also, oddly enough my father also went through the diagnostic processs for ALS about 5 years ago. Turned out he has a rare disease that mimics ALS called multi focal motor neuropathy. Anyway, he's been having so pretty bad memory issues and went through another diagnostic process about 2 months ago and was given the results just as I was diagnosed. Well, he & my mom are here helping w/recovery and my dad finally explained his diagnosis ... not firm yet ... but appears to be early stage Alzheimers or Frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Both are pretty damn nasty and progressive. Ugh ... so do I have the blues ... no frickin doubt ... is it to be expected given all the crap I'm being hit with ... you bet your bottom dollar.
I consider myself a VERY strong person ... but hot damn this is killer crapola and I'm struggling to find the reason this has happened to my family & what I'm supposed to do and learn from it.
Thanks for listening ladies ... just feels better to write it down :-)
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Welcome RubyBegonia. Best to you with rads. BTW, you are a spring chicken from my standpoint!!! I didn't have rads so can't contribute there but others will. 3sunz, no wonder you were feeling blue--hope that is impoving but what alot going on for you to make your heart feel heavy. Glad the graduation party went well and theweather cooperated. Nice rain the lst couple of nights here and so needed, but very muggy today. Our sons put in our air cond. yesterday (window unit) did a few heavy other jobs and did the grill cooking etc, plus I was able to free up the freezer a bit, sent jam and strawberries home with them, plus the 4 grandkids ate their fill. Have to log off, as just got company--will try to catch up with everyone else here later--love to all.
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Ruby, sorry you have to be here. To all, I hope everything is going better. Somehow this thread got knocked out of my favorites, so I missed a lot. I just wanted to point out that Aurora, who is my provider, has a cancer care coordinator, she can help you get your docs on the same block. I am pretty sure Columbia st Mary, Froedert group does to. Perhaps you could look into it, I can't tell you how helpful that was for me. Much love to all.
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good morning ladies, just a quick post before I finish packing. Headed to D.C. for work today and not back until Friday.
my3sunz, that is a lot on one plate! My dad passed five years ago with Alzheimers so I know how tough that is.
((hugs)) to all
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Just wanted to check in and say hello. The temp is over 90 here in port. Wish I had air conditioner. Sitting in front of the fan not moving. Still enjoying summer though.
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Good morning friends. Beautiful day here, glad to see the end of the 90+ temps. plus several good rainfalls during the night this past week, and sunny during the day. Strawberries DONE--glad to be finished picking but will miss the fresh berries--though noticed the wild berries are starting to ripen. Badger, hope you had a good trip to DC--have any time for sightseeing? Today--celebrating 55 years of marriage plus my 77th birthday--by doing NOTHING!! Taking a day off! DD1 is here, going to fuss over us and wait on us. Will have some of the rest of the family here tomorrow. I am not used to being waited on, will see how that goes. Maybe I will like it too much. Hugs to anyone with the blues or nasty side effects from RX or puzzling over RX decisions---whatever is troubling, I hope it is better today. ((Hugs))
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Hey Ladies,
Hope this finds you all well! What a beautiful day in southwest Wisconsin. The only thing we need is RAIN.....buckets and buckets of it (without the storms, PLEASE) I guess they are calling for hot temps again by the end of the week.
gramamuses, you must be further north as we have had no rain for weeks. We are 5 miles south of the Wisconsin river and when it does rain it seems to always follow the river. My strawberries were ZERO, poor little things just couldn't do it. My sweetcorn is looking awesome...first time in a long while. Must be from the manure that my hubby used
But again, that wont last if we dont get rain.badger, have you ever eaten at Tony Franks? When I would come to the Mad City for rads, my parents would always take me there. YUMMY, best reubens around. My family is very Irish and none of their's compares.
my3sunz42, so can relate to the graduation story. My only child graduated last May which was a month after surgery. My tx started 3 days after graduation. Im glad that you had a good day for your party. Ours went well also. I guess its just one of those things that you do for your family and you manage through
stay strongNot sure what happened to my font, but I cant change the above paragraph. TODAY is deffinately a day of moving forward. I have decided to block all forums except for this Wisconsin one, long term stage 3 and then I have all my favorite members. While at one time the information was more than helpful, it made it hard for me to move on. Staying positive is hard for me when reading so much sadness. It doesnt mean that I care any less...I just need to move on. Research is good BUT only when you have a plan of what to do with it. And since we are all different none of our tx. dx or lifestyles can be compared to another.
My hubby is helping me box up research material, reports and get well cards. We will put them away for safe keeping BUT on the back burner for now. I have some living to do! My house needs to be cleaned also...........but that can wait, it's over rated anyway.
Hugs and well wishes to all
Walk With GRACE (greater Richland Area Cancer Elimination) is August 10 @6pm Krouskop Park, Richland Center.
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Hey everyone - bad news....
3katz from Milwaukee passed today from this. She sent me several PM after I started posting.
Rest in peace Amy, my condolences to her family.
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Thanks for letting us know pebee. Condolences to her family.
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thanks pebee - farewell Amy, condolences to family & friends.
Cindi, GRACE is such a good cause, to raise money that stays local to help people with cancer.
DC was HOT last week, good (
) practice for WI this week. Did some sightseeing Weds and took in a Nats game (Washington Nationals baseball) Thurs.Brief thunderstorm early this morning but just a trace of rain - so dry! I've been walking in the mornings since the afternoons are unbearable. Stay cool, ladies! ((hugs)) to all
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