Kiwi ladies who need encouragment, but all welcome.
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Hi Manda, Welcome, sorry you have to be here. I'm from Auckland but hopefully there's someone here from the Waikat
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Hi Shazzakelly, I feel a bit silly being here but I'm just trying to find anyone with experience in the system in Hamilton. My G.P found lumps in my left breast & said my nipple was flat so she's referred me to breast clinic for an ultrasound, it was a bit unexpected as I went to see her for something else! I do occasionally get sharp pains in my left breast and pain in that nipple but kind of put it down to hormonal. She asked if I had insurance but I don't, she said they are usually quite prompt at the breast clinic but if I don't get an appointment within 4 weeks then I could maybe think about paying privately. I was hoping someone might know how quick things get seen to around here. Haven't wanted to tell friends or family as I don't want anyone to worry unnecessarily, but this means worrying quietly on my own!
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Hi Manda. I am from Auckland as well so can't help you with Waikato. However, I would think that you'd at least hear about when your appointment would be within two weeks, which is usually the aim up here. If you haven't heard I would start ringing, and try to speak to the scheduler. Saying that you are available at short notice has always helped me shorten the wait. Best of luck.
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I'm from invercargill, I got a letter back from the hospital regarding an appt very quickly however had to wait 6-8 weeks for that appt.
Cottoned on quicker as time went by and phoned to see how I was placed on waiting lists.
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Nikki I received a letter from the Auckland Cancer Society today asking for a donation. So cool to read all about you and see your photos. Great to see your smiling face! I didn't have any contact with ACS but they sound really helpful.
Manda, I hope you're getting some info from your GP about how long you have to wait. The waiting time is so hard, however you can get through it by keeping busy and distracted.
KT, thinking of you and sending lots of good wishes your way.
My back ache is gradually improving but weird to have it for three weeks.
Bye, Michelle
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Welcome Manda. I hope you get your appt soon. It's hard waiting, hopefully they can give you some idea of time frame soon.
I'm glad your back is improving optimist.
I'm down in Wanaka now
My sisters new house is gorgeous with mountain & lake views. Beautiful sunny day, so we've had a wee drive & a couple of short walks. My stamina is not quite what it used to be 
but still nice to get out & about in such a beautiful place. I'll try & post a pic. 
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Thanks Michelle. They first rolled it out for last years Christmas appeal and got about 100k. I was pleased with that, and didn't hesitate when they asked if they could use it again. So far this one is doing well. My particular cancer society nurse was so so good to me, I think we just clicked. She still rings me to chat even though I was discharged about a year ago. I have had a couple of friends who have been very ill in the last six months and she has been a rock for them and their families as well.
Regarding your back pain. I had a pain in my hip and have had since the beginning of the year. Nothing showed up on any of my scans but it is so weird to have this specific pain and not have any reason for it. Then again, if it weren't for the BC then I'd possibly not have given it as much air time. Hopefully yours is getting better. My AL's definitely have caused more arthritis pain, I tend to think that that's the problem with my hip.
KT, I was just thinking of you and I hoping your feeling ok, I am stoked that you that you made it to Wanaka. It looks so beautiful, your sister is so lucky having that view - it is amazing.
Helen, hope you're ok as well.
Hi Shazza.
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Thanks ladies, yeah I suppose squeaky wheel gets the oil? Will follow up with GP tomorrow. Have spent hours reading on this sit! you ladies are all amazing, I'm not sure I'd have the strength you all have if it turns out to be something sinister!
All the best for all of your journeys
X x x
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hi everyone
Kt so happy you have got to enjoy that gorgeous view down in Wanaka. Time away would have been just what you needed, though of course doesn't stop your brain ticking around and thinking things.
Manda yes the squeaky wheel does get the oil, so ring and see what you can do re hurrying up an appointment. Well worth the $$$$ to go private at first too if you need to. Sorry I don't know much about Hamilton either as went through the system in Wellington. Best of luck that your issues are nothing to be concerned about.
Helen your pic is lovely. Good on you for being brave and going public on your fb etc.
Shazza great that things seem to be going along good for you at the mo. Hope your daughter is still enjoying her study
We had a nice long weekend up in Tauranga, catching up with family etc. The 3 days flew by. Luckily we have another long weekend this coming weekend up to Bay of Islands to stay with a friend. Booked those cheap air NZ fares too a little while ago so nothing will be getting done round the house for several weeks! Lol. Oh well housework is very overrated :-)
Sun is shining today so that's a good start. x
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Decided to flag the wait & pay the money. Mum has offered to pay half so there's a bonus! Booked in for ultrasound tomorrow. Figured it's worth the money to get worry off my mind.
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Good choice Manda. The worry is awful. Hoping for good quick results after your ultrasound.
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thanks Nik
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Good news (almost) Had my ultrasound this morning,my left breast was the one my Dr was worried about but she requested both to be scanned. The lady said she couldnt see any areas of concern so that was a relief! Still needs to be checked by specialist. One thing though when she did my right breast it was easy as, no discomfort but when she was doing the left it was really tender and I am still aching from it 2 hours later. Anyone have any ideas on why that could be? I'm not due for my period for about 2 weeks.
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Hi everyone. I hope you're all enjoying the beautiful weather we're having at the moment! Gorgeous.
Manda, I'm glad you've had your ultrasound already. Good on you for being proactive
Not sure why your breast is hurting still... Enjoy the Bay of Islands, Kruise. Lovely.
It was so great to get away to a beautiful place with my mum & sister, & do fun stuff not related to cancer! Shopping, cafes, walks etc, just soaking in the beauty...
Back to reality yesterday with another brain MRI & radiation treatment. Last one today. I had a call from Ak oncology to say my Monday assessment has been cancelled, but they'd ring me with another apt (who knows when) later today for chemo.... Crazy. I'd like to talk about what the latest scans etc show & discuss options before being thrown into chemo right away. I guess I have to trust they know what they're doing.
Good news- the slab should be poured for our house on Friday, then they can start building next week, woohoo.
Take care all
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Hi ladies
Manda it will be good for you to get the official results from the ultrasound etc with your specialist but at least it all sounds good so far. And yes like Kt said not sure why one side hurt more, just keep monitoring that. One of my biggest symptoms with hindsight with my breast cancer was pain. Little sharp stabby type pains that I put down to hormones but wasn't!
Thanks Kt - I'm sure we will enjoy our break. Hope the weather lasts it has been wonderful down here too! How exciting about your house. Definitely a project to keep you absorbed in - have they told you how long the building process will take? Be neat if you can all have a lovely family Christmas in your new place.
I took our puppy and older dog for a walk along the beach yesterday. Oh my goodness it was such a mission lol! Worse than having two little toddlers I think. The puppy was so excited to be out (only his 2nd time in public after all his shots and first time at the beach). They kept crossing leads and winding themselves around me, in the end it was just easier to let them off so they could run around but then I was constantly having to watch them and watch out for other dogs! Funny in hindsight but I think I'll have to invest in some sort of double lead. At least it got me out and about. I'm so unfit it's not funny.
Oh well hope you all have a great day/weekend! Anyone seen that Ab Fab movie yet...looks very much like a chick flick. Am going with some friends next week so looking forward to that.
Lots love x
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KT, I hope you've got your appointment time sorted this afternoon and that you're feeling ok after the radiation. Looks like the weather is getting it's act together, so here's hoping that it stay that way and lots of building can be happening without rain delays.
Kruise, I am off to see AbFab on Sunday. I am supposed to dress up as Eddie (She's the fat redheadish one, I fit that bill so I can probably ditch the costume)
My friend is of course going as Patsy, she is blonde, skinny and beautiful (((sigh))).Hi to you all. Yay! Friday tomorrow.
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Nikki, sounds fun dressing up as Eddie
Great idea! Wow, Kruise you have your hands full with your 2 dogs. Great exercise I bet.
(Manda, to be honest, my bc boob hurt too when it wasn't anything to do with my period- if you're still concerned maybe insist on an MRI as dense breasts are hard to read- in your case it's prob nothing to worry about).
My appt has been sorted as of this morning- back to original time & day- phew, cos I just want to get it over with.
And guess what- the slab pour isn't till 26/8, then build starts the following week. My brain really has been fried by WBR!
Have a good day all
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KT, your sister's Wanaka view and outdoor area is stunning. So glad you got a chance to enjoy yourself. Nikki, I'm hoping to see Ab Fab soon too, though not dress up! I always loved the TV series. In fact Jennifer Saunders had breast cancer and chemo a couple of years ago and is going strong now. I read her autobiography.
Manda, hoping for good news for you. Has anyone heard from Donna lately? It seems a long time since she was on here and she used to post a lot.
Wishing everyone a great weekend.
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I was on placement today (I'm a nursing student) couldn't have my phone on me but had a message from my GP nurse saying the report came back normal but they would like me to keep my appointment with the breast clinic for a second opinion. Got home & letter from waikato hospital was here! I will get an appointment within 3 months. Glad they're being thorough. Kruise that's exactly the pain I have, short & sharp, and that one side always feels a bit heavier as if I'm lactating! I haven't breast fed for 5 years ☺ I also have had a really itchy nipple on that side lately.
Have a nice weekend ladies! The sun is shining here in the waikato, hope you all have the same 😀
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Manda, it's good that you've got a second opinion in a few months. Make sure that you push (if you have to) to get an ultrasound at the Breast Clinic as well.
Michelle, I just gave Donna a ring and she's fine. She'll be on this weekend. The new job is taking up a bit of mind space. She managed well in Sydney and didn't crash her rental!
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Hi guys, I've had a quick read of the posts I've missed. Hi Manda1982 I live in Ararimu, which is by Bombay, might be the closest to Hamilton but not sure. Well I did my Sydney trip okay, I didn't get lost in the desert or the blue mountains and actually really enjoyed it. It's nice not having to cook or clean and eating wonderful dinners and staying at a flash hotel. Did I tell you that the NSW Rural Firefighters were having their Convention the week I was there? Don't get excited I was so tired I ate in my room most nights and at my age (much to the disappointment of my mother) I have quite forgotten how to flirt. I was very homesick and missed my kids (even though they are 21 and 23) haha!I know I'm quite pathetic. Got my training done, but it all went in one ear and out the other, lucky I have good notes so am back to reality now and trying to implement all I have learned. I don't know whether it's my age 55, my recent experience with cancer, or the tamoxifen but my brain is like Swiss cheese with lots of holes in it. I can literally feel myself turning into a little old lady. I can't blame Chemo because I didn't have it. Anyway I hope you are all doing okay. Think of you all often. Take care, Donna xxx
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Hey, I'm glad Sydney went well, Donna. Hooray for no cooking & cleaning. I hear you on Swiss cheese brain- mines worse now becos of WBR!
Just found out today the lumbar puncture didn't help re receptor status. Also that I do have bony skull mets as well as mets inside my actual brain (not just LM) fun, fun,fun. I'm starting chemo (vinorelbine) next week and having yet another CT scan this week as a baseline. (At least my latest brain MRI showed that the brain mets had reduced in size).
I'm not giving up yet! Plenty to fight for- if it's up to me I'll have at least another 5 years...
I hope you're all having a good week.
Well take care all, keep warm
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KT glad to hear that the brain mets have reduced in size all that WBR wasn't for nothing. A friend of mine had a year on vinorelbine and reckoned it was his favourite chemo so I hope you get a good Long SE free run on it.
I have just had my 3 year stage 4 anniversary and my 17 year breast cancer anniversary. They were hoping for 3 years for me when I was first diagnosed stage 4 as I had mets everywhere. Well I'm still stable on Taxol, hardly any tumour activity, still working and training for a 21k walk. I'm planning for my 50th next year and then my daughter graduating in 3 years. There's a lot to stick around for. I'm going to add champagne with KT in 5 years time to that list.
Hope everyone else is doing well and enjoying the weather. I'm off for my walk and then work. Have a great day every
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Yes plenty to fight for KT! Like that lovely new house and seeing everything fall into place for a good long time yet. Glad to read that your brain mets are smaller. and hoping the new chemo treats you well also.
Shazza, I turn 50 in the first week of November. I am not really sure if I want to do anything or not, as chances are I will have just had those couple of small ops (or be still waiting, who knows). I am the last of my friends to turn 50, although I look like I am 10 years older than them now. They've all had very enjoyable celebrations, so I do feel like I need to do something. We'll see.
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Nikki my friends have been having amazing 50th birthdays for a few years now and I want one. Seems way more fun than 30th or 40th birthdays. In fact when I found out I was stage 4 it was on my 46th birthday and I told my oncologist he needed to get me to 50 in good shape as I wasn't missing out.
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Hi everyone
Nikki it's good to have something to look forward to. I had a 50th birthday lunch at home three years ago and it was fun and lovely to catch up with friends. My birthday's in December so we were outside on the deck. My friends are mainly a bit older than me so I've felt quite young in comparison but to be honest I feel like I've aged a lot in the last year with the stress of recurrence.
KT really hoping for a great response to the chemo for you, about time you got a break. Shazza, so great that you're going strong and doing so well.
Donna, nice to see your post. I've missed your great sense of humour on this thread!
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Oh wow I missed my second cancerversary on the 21st August. Seems like those moments in life, that you think you'll never forget, get replaced by other things that you think you'll never forget. Just shows you how life goes on. Or maybe I am just forgetful ...... and can't remember any damn thing
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hi lovelies...
Nice to hear about your trip Donna. Sounds like your new job is keeping you busy and stretching the brain cells but that's all good - use it or lose it apparently! Nikki it's not such a bad thing at all forgetting your cancerversary. Kt hope your new chemo does the biz and great news the tumours had shrunk with WBR. We'll all be hoping and praying that's the case. Great to hear about your 50th celebrations - past and future. Mine is June 2018..maybe not too early to start planning! Lol. I had a beautiful big party for my 40th so would just like to do some sort of holiday for my 50th, especially since it's winter time too. I actually think we should celebrate every birthday! My Mum passed away from her breast cancer at 50 so it will be a significant milestone for me to get there. When is your birthday in December Michelle? Not too close to Christmas I hope. Manda - great you have that follow up appt.
Our weekend up to Bay of Islands was lovely, caught up with friends, ate too much and laughed a bit as well. Did the ferry trip from Paihia to Russell and the old stone store in Kerikeri. On the way back home we had a night in Auckland and instead of staying in the CBD like usual we had a night over on Waiheke Island too before our flight back home. That was so nice and peaceful - the place had its own boat shed down by the water so we watched fish jump at sunset :-)
We are going to the All Black/Wallabies game in Wellington on Saturday night. If it's a white wash like last weekend, it won't be very exciting.
Weather is a bit grey here today, supposed to rain. I need to go to the dreaded supermarket soon as we don't have much here so need to go stock up again. I'll try and do that soon.
Hope it's a nicer day up North.
Here's a pic of my man and me at Waiheke - with the dog from the place we stayed.
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Hi
Great pic Kruise. Sounds like a lovely weekend. You're a spring chicken!
Lots of 50ths still to come by the sound of it. I hope they're all heaps of fun. Great goals Shazza!
Nikki it's good you forgot that anniversary in a way- shows that life does go on.
I'm just hanging about here not doing too much. The slab was done on Saturday, looks good (small tho! Hard to imagine how it will all fit).
Chemo tomorrow. Hopefully it'll be ok, not too many se's.
Have a great week everyone- will be nice to see the sun back over the next few days or so....
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Good luck with chemo tomorrow KT. I'm keeping my fingers crossed it will be easy and effective.
Lovely picture of the two of you Kruise. My daughter is loving her paramedic course. She has had a couple of placements already.
I'm going to do the Breast Cancer 21k charity walk in October and have been trying to do some training. I convinced a couple of friends to come with me on Saturday on what was meant to be a 13km training walk but I hadn't quite tracked it right and it ended up being 17k!!!!! We did stop for yummy ice cream though at the viaduct at the 9.5k mark.
The weather has turned to rubbish again. Have a good week everyone. Stay dry and warm.
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