2013 Survivors!!!
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Merry Christmas ladies! I love you all. The survivors lists really hit a chord. The worst for me was that my Mother sent out a group email to family and friends before I even knew more than I had Cancer. Grr... Other than people on her list, mostly family, I never bring the Cancer up in conversation. Only a small group of friends and my boss had to know. That worked best for me. Anyone who knew was supportive and really didn't give advise. Since I wasn't talking freely, you have all been my life line. Along with my DH. I try to give my Mother minimal information. I bought her a plaque that says: Worry is a waste of the imagination. She was scared to death and I could see it all over her face and body. That made me act stronger like it was no big deal. I became a robot for the doctors appts, surgery, radiation and anything else I was asked to do.
I'd love to meet you all! I can read posts on my phone but I'm not always able to respond. Depending on your designated location, I'm in for the group hug. I'm in CA and have never been to Chicago, except for the airport. Canada is beautiful- Quebec is a little far. God willing, I will meet you all. You are thinking Springtime, right? How about Texas? It's big, in the middle and I'd love to spend sometime there. That's my two cents, let me know what you decide.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Looks like we've made it.0 -
I am thinking someplace we can handle a long weekend. Not sure what the cost would be for flights to San Antonio but it is a really neat place. We could look late spring .. Even around cdn Victoria Day or American Memorial Day weekends ...
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Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! McCook I can't tell you how many times I wanted to talk to someone about having BC or share especially after listening to others complain about their hang nail or how much their doctor bills were from a knee surgery. lol My sole reason though for not telling anyone excepr DH, DS and 1 out of town friend has been to keep it from my Dad . As I've mentioned before, I lost my mom to bc in the late 60's when I was 15 and I've had a couple aunts, cousins on both sides and dads mom that had BC. I'm the only daughter and he has always worried so much about my risk. He is almost 90 and still doing pretty well on his own but he had a heart attack soon after my diagnosis and a week before my surgery. He literally went home from the hospital 2 days before I went in. Needless to say I didn't want to tell him what was going on while he was recovering, so I just told him I couldn't come over for 3 days because I was having a minor procedure done. ( lol beat telling him I'm going in to have a double mastectomy, reconstruction and oh yea did I mention also an oophrectomy? lol he'd probably have had another heart attack) Since he was having a nurse come in daily, I just told one of his neighbors the same thing about the "minor procedure" and she said she would look in on him a couple times a day and take him meals or groceries as needed. That was a big relief. He had to go back in several times for more procedures so my dh and I just decided that it was probably best if he never knew because we are the support system he has here and we never wanted him to be hesitant to call for help if he needed it out of fear that I was "sick" or "weak" . So as not to risk him finding out from anyone else, we decided it was better not tell anyone. Fortunately I have one great Christian friend that lives elsewhere and knows no one dad knows, that I did call right before my surgery who has been such a great listener and prayer warrior to me through out all this .So aside from you great ladies, I have had her to talk to. I just lost a cousin to BC whose daughter also has it so it has been especially hard hearing about that without spilling my story. Anyway, I am just thankful that I have been able to pull it off since I didn't need chemo and that I could time my additional surgeries around dads just right and with out him knowing.
Juneau I hope your time with your mom went well. I have to say I have always had "mom" envy not having one to go thru proms, my wedding, childbirth, etc. When my friends would complain about their mom I would always give them a lecture which they never appreciated until they were older. Also having a mom to look after dad and vice versa seems so nice.
A reunion huh? Interesting idea but one I'll have to wrestle with. Over the last 30 or so years I developed the irrational fear of flying out of fear I could be in a plane crash and die and leave my DS motherless! Well I guess it's time to revisit that fear as I discovered as all of you did too, sometimes our bodies grow bad things inside that can kill us while our feet are on the ground-lol. Time to work on thoat fear and enjoy life. Marcie is Nola where the 3d tattoo guy is that everyone goes to for nipple tats? Wouldn't that be funny to have a reunion of people go in at the same time for group-rated nipple tats . For those that had NS they say they can lighten dark scar areas with tattoos or just darken areolas that sometimes fade even with NS. That might not even be where the infamous 3D tattoer the thought kind of struck me funny.
Again I hope you all had a well deserved holiday and I wish everyone the best of health and happiness for the New Year. I do wish that we could just skip to 2014- I'm not really a supersticious person but at this point I'd rather just avoid the "13" in the year. lol Take care all.
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We could try a skype meeting Like have a group in Hawaii, a group in the NYC metro area etc Could hook up a lap top to large flat screen to make it easier for us to see each other
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2 fried,
Nice post and puts things in perspective! You are major strong!!
I thought the nipple tattoo party was a great idea and it made me laugh, why not? They have all kinds of parties these days, we could start a trend
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I think we should have a retreat somewhere quiet so we can all get to know one another.
If we hit a large city.....shopping, visiting museums etc....hmmmm...I think little bonding
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Hello ladies - been remiss in wishing you all a happy holiday! Enjoyed a fantastic 4-day weekend with my family where I felt human again. Actually did activities with the boys every day except Tuesday - when we all stayed in our pj's and lounged around the house all day (much needed break for me after 3 days of running). I am now 19 days PFC and feeling pretty darn good. Started to get some hot flashes that are driving me a bit batty - but feeling pretty good overall. Getting psyched for my exchange surgery next week and then it'll be off to rads once my PS releases me to start. Went today for one of my regular MUGAs and felt a desperate need to cough with 2 minutes left in the scan. 2 minutes is VERY long when you really need to cough but aren't allowed to move. Almost drove me to a full blown panic attack. That'll look good on the MUGA I'm sure...
Seriously - been a bit anxious about this MUGA, as I've been feeling my heart do this random gallop thing every so often. I'm sure it's nothing, but the combo of adriamycin and herceptin makes me a bit nervous. And now to add rads near my heart on top of that - sigh... The ways we harass our bodies to keep cancer away... I keep thinking either my heart or liver are going to protest big time and stop treatment in its tracks. Positive thinking, positive thinking...As for a reunion, I'm with you 2fried. I don't travel so much without my family and have noticed that in the rare cases that I do, I'm overrun with fear of dying and leaving my family behind (sounds funny now in the post-BC world we live in). I also tend to never take time for myself. So perhaps these are more of the lessons to be learned in this shitty cancer game. Take a deep breath and live life! Get on a plane without the family and go take some me time to meet some awesome ladies. And yes - I am 99% certain that one of the people who does the really well known nipple tattoos has an office in NOLA. Seems like a group rate would be obtainable. And I bet a flock of BC survivors descending on his office for a reunion and nipple tatts would get him some good press - enough to be willing to give us a really good group rate. Just thinking out loud here...
Also been enjoying reading all of your "I survived" notes. Been thinking about mine but feel for some reason I need to wait until I finish rads to really put it down on paper. Granted I can think of many things I have survived so far, but right now feeling like I'll wait a bit...
And scottie - thanks for thinking of me. But thankfully I am not considered terminal or late stage. Certainly a later stage than I would have liked - but all things considered...
Hugs and love to you all!
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What a great idea and something to look forward to. It would be so fantastic and important to meet the fabulous ladies who have been at my back the last four months.
Though I don't post often, I am here daily and sometimes two or three times. I have gathered much strength and wisdom from these posts. Thank you!
Cheers to a happy, healthy New Year to us all!
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Hi all!!! Glad everyone is in board with some type of weekend. I'm just thinking that southern US is a bit far for our Canadian ladies. Ladies...? Can you chime in here??? I might call the American cancer society and talk to the woman I know from making strides. Maybe they can help us organize a retreat. And maybe NOLA if Canada contingency wants, must say it would be hit and steamy and not a real happy place with these fucking hot flashes that continue to plague so many of us.
Ramols: organic Apple Cider Vinegar with the mother (that's the stuff on the bottom). 1 tablespoon 3xs/day. I swill it in a little cranberry juice, followed by another little swill of cranberry sans vinegar. My hit flashes have GREATLY subsided; but far from gone.
I have my first appointment with my MO today since my last chemo on October 10th.
Also, take biotin. Hair is coming in fast:
Have a great day ladies; I have to go fan myself and swill some vinegar, then off to work.0 -
I have to admit that I am not looking for a "retreat" but a weekend of fun, sight seeing and bonding. If I am going to travel I most certainly want to see the sights.
We need someplace that is easy to get to ... Airport and decent prices .... I still think Chicago is a good option. Vegas is a thought too ... Usually have decent deals !0 -
Since I'm not optimistic that I will be over my fear of flying by then, where ever you all decide to go is fine with me as long as someone has their I-phone and can text me some pics & videos (maybe we can even do some facetime or skype or something so that I feel like I am there.) Ramols I'm glad to hear I'm not alone. I used to fly all the time and loved it but went to Amsterdam one year for business, called my DH and told him if we were going to stay married, he was going to have to pack up our stuff and move to Holland because all of a sudden I was afraid to fly home. Fortunately with him talking me thru it and a few drinks and other helpers I was able to fly home. I am such a wimp sometimes! lol
Juneau look at you showing off those new great boobs and hair! Looking good! Unfortunately I won't be able to flash mine as low as yours right now because my cancer was at the cleavage area on the one and my lumpectomy left a pretty big scar. The Ps tried to remove it during the DMX so it wouldn't look double but thats also where the implant was inserted since she was working there anyway so I have some scars I want to lighten up before I start flashing like you-LOL. Sorry the hot flashes are still plaguing you-I had hoped they were gone with the vinegar.
Have a great day fellow survivors!
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Juneau...lookin' fantastic!
Have a great day all...just heading out to work once DH clears the 3 foot snow drift behind my car. Winter is here...with a vengence. Might not be able to travel for rad 14/16 if it doesn't clear up.
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Juneau,
NICE!! I love the hair and style, mine is sooooo curly! But defiantly better than NO hair. LOL! Also great cleavage, I am looking forward having mine look that good again!! It is amazing what dr's can do0 -
Wow, Juneau! Both hair and cleavage do look great. You inspire me. I have at times contemplated not having reconstruction but your picture is making me reconsider. Can't wait to have that much hair - I'm going to buy some apple cider vinegar and biotin this weekend.
Re: getting together - I would be up for whatever the group decided, won't be at the stage of reconstruction for nipple tattooing yet though
. If I'm traveling by plane then I don't think it makes that much difference whether I go east or further south.0 -
Websister I dont know how you used to wear your hair before chemo but you look adorable in that style-so young looking! How is your Mom?
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Those of you taking biotin, consider adding silica (BioSil). Recommended by users on the Cold Cap thread.
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2Fried - thanks re: hair - the wig is quite different from my real hair but has been a fun change and I have had a lot of compliments on it. My hair was dark like Juneau's and it was curly, not sure how it will grow back in
Mom is now in a rehab facility and doing quite well. She is really hoping to be able to go back to the lodge.
301724 - thanks0 -
Gee thanks ladies... I wasn't even trying to show off the new cleavage.
Joanne; I think we needs a consensus on this. I'm not looking for a vacation that would include site seeing; myself necessarily. I would do that with my husband (although I guess we could invite our significant others). I was thinking more like a get together where yes there might be a show or something if you'd like in the evening, but more like activities and time to sit around and talk and laugh together. I am not sure everyone is able and willing to do something that requires walking around and being on our feet for long periods of time. I know for example that would not be something that Scorchy would be able to do and I'd like to be sure that anyone can join us. :-)
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juneau - i agree that your hair and new tatas look fanstastic! I have to ask - how many cc's were your final implants? I'm hemming and hawing between 400 vs 425, which i realize will not even be noticeable in the end, but...
As for the trip - i agree with juneau, and i think contacting ACS, or maybe even someone here at BCO might be a big help. Others before us have to have tried to do this, right? Happy to help with some plotting if needed. Still need to psych myself up for solo travel and me time though...
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2friedeggs, I totally get the fear of flying. I gave up a free trip to England because I wouldn't fly. But that is all before I met my new friend Ativan......I wonder how I would be now.
All you ladies with hair coming back- did you start out with baby shampoo? When did you change to adult products, if you have. My hair was always fine in texture, but now seems to be this sticky fluff stuff that more resembles hair when wet than it does when it is dry. I have been using Aveeno baby wash- suggestions?
Juneau, I agree with Websister- I was totally fine with my no reconstruction decision, but your results are making me think a little harder....0 -
Ramois and Juneau you look into things ... See what you find out.
Not to be a downer but if I am going to travel for a 3 day weekend I want to see some sights ... I am not looking for a retreat ...0 -
Ramols; 650 ccs in the right, 194 in left to make even. 😁😬😜
And who said you'd be traveling alone Ramols!!!!
Cowpower: thanks for all the compliments. I'll feel better as I try to remember to massage 3xs a day!! Got so used to not touching them that I keep forgetting.0 -
What about NYC? Staying in NJ would be better priced and we could see the sights of the city, a show, eat, drink, walk etc. etc. Maybe it is reasonable for plane or train travel for those living in the mid-west or west.
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Juneaubugg.....I'm with you....a retreat where we can all sit around and have a good laugh and get to know each other. Sightseeing is wonderful, but it defeats the purpose of a get together. Just my opinion however...lol
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PS Juneaubugg.....cleavage and hair ....fabulous.
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Some one needs to plan it ... Sorry but I am the downer and count me out ... No retreat for me. I am going east for 2 weeks in July, Florida for 2 weeks in March and not sure where else I will end up.
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Hello girls! I am going to put in my two cents for a gathering - HERSHEY!!!! Beautiful views and chocolate!!! The Hershey hotel is kind of expensive but there are other hotels around that are reasonable.
Also tomorrow I am putting on my coat of many pockets if you all wouldn't mind jumping in for a ride to NYC? I have to have my drain taken out and my friend Ativan is coming along for the ride but some ride alongs won't hurt either!
Thanks!
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I hope you all don't mind me butting in, but here are a few things to consider since we may be dealing with different issues:
Price: Coast-to-coast airfare is often cheaper than "mid" yet hotel prices are much cheaper in the smaller cities. I used to have sites in FL and could fly for < $400, but for me to fly to Omaha or other cities in the mid-west often costs me > $600-800. Also, if I have to go to a place like Montreal, I fly out of Burlington, VT. Look for options if you don't mind the drive.
Fear of flying: I fly an average of 60-100,000 miles/year and I'm still here!
Hotels: Although motels are cheaper, hotels are safer and sometimes will provide discounts, breakfast, etc. especially if you have a group. Factor that in your cost. All Hampton Inns provide breakfast and some a Manager's Reception (soups, etc.) in the evening.
Ground transportation: Again a cost to be factored in getting to and from the hotel/airport or around the city. Some hotels also provide shuttle service within a certain area around their city.
Dates: Spring and winter breaks raise the prices for everything in FL, Mexico, etc., but lower the prices elsewhere, but weather can get you stranded in Oklahoma and Omaha.
Things to do: Some places can have it all: a place just to meet, connect and talk; then for those who choose, a place to shop, pub-crawl, etc., without leaving anyone out or choosing not come because they do/don't want to participate in one or more activity.
Perhaps a questionnaire that people can complete (concerns, expectations, etc.) and send the reponses back to one or two people would assist in planning this get-together.
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Karen - in your pockets tomorrow
Maryah930 - great post, lots of good points to consider when choosing a destination
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Karen I am with Websister and in your pocket.
Also lots of good points made ... Maryah maybe you could work on a questionnaire ...0
