Join our Webinar: REAL Talk: Healthy Body and Mind After Breast Cancer Treatment - Jan 23, 2025 at 4pm ET Register here.

2013 Survivors!!!

1171172174176177276

Comments

  • Shari0707
    Shari0707 Member Posts: 260
    edited June 2013

    Done with rads yesterday!!! Go next week for my tamoxifen prescription and checkup... Exercising five out of seven days for the last two weeks and all the scale is doing is going up... I am discouraged but not going to stop hopefully the scale will too in other direction soon!

    But I a done with rads!

  • Believe777
    Believe777 Member Posts: 540
    edited June 2013

    Liefie - I tried that, with and without the peels. In my opinion, it doesn't work. I ended up with black mush.

  • Believe777
    Believe777 Member Posts: 540
    edited June 2013

    Shari - yeah on being finished with the rads. Another view in your rear view mirror!

  • ireland20
    ireland20 Member Posts: 175
    edited June 2013

    Hi ladies...thanks for all your thoughts...really crap two days....went to wake last nite and was completely shocked by what i saw, the agony of the last few weeks was clearly etched on dear siobhans face. I have never seen that befor and hope my shocked reaction didnt affect her daughter. The funeral was today followed by my annual check at onc...who has moved it back to 6 monthly visits.as once i have ovaries out she reckons i will come off tamox and start another one for postmen.women! .pity as i am doing well on tamox...bar the weight gain...which could be down to over eating!!!!. Shari congrats on finishing rads. Hugs to everyone.x.

  • ireland20
    ireland20 Member Posts: 175
    edited June 2013

    Meant to ask....has anyone heard of juiced wheatgrass.....heard from two ladies today at oncs office that this is a possible cure/way to keep it at bay?a guy here is peddling story of how he had 3 months to live..etc..etc and after turning down chemo started juicing wheatgrass ...that was four years ago?

  • websister
    websister Member Posts: 405
    edited June 2013

    Hi everyone



    Shari - congratulations on finishing your rads!!!! Great accomplishment, celebrate every milestone. And good for you for the exercising also. Scales are just tools, fat weighs less than muscle and healthy is our goal



    Liefie - it is raining here fairly heavily on and off, I'm hoping that means that it is dry there for your trip to Victoria and back with DH



    Believe - I was having a little trouble trying to figure out what banana not bread was, finally clued in that it was banana nut bread. I love it fresh from the oven with a slightly sweet cream cheese spread, haven't had something like that in a good long while



    Scottie - you are really closing in on the end of the school year, congrats



    Ramols - you've been a little quiet again, hope all is well and you are just busy finding your happy these past few days



    McCook - good to hear from you also, sounds like you are in a good place right now



    I received a date for my MRI today, it will be July 10th, you have to love our health care system :), I am grateful that I don't have to worry whether or not insurance will cover though



    I had my performance review with my manager at work today and wanted to share but didn't know who with as didn't want to do it with my co-workers, my thoughts immediately turned to you guys. He has been and is the most incredible manager, I really like and respect him as do all my co-workers. When I went to go into the meeting I teasingly grabbed a few kleenexes from a co-workers desk telling her I might need them depending on what I heard. (I really took them because of the wonderful side effect of Herceptin that causes my nose to drip constantly). My manager said he would conduct this review a little differently and was very complimentary. He stated that he appreciated all I had done for the team in a mentorship and advisory capacity while I was away this year and kind of teared up and cleared his throat while he was talking. Then when we reviewed my accomplishments this year he said that he felt I should also add getting through breast cancer treatment and again had to clear his throat and blink a few times. It touched me that he recognized and acknowledged that it was an accomplishment and not an easy one. That was my happy for today.



    Take care everyone

  • juneaubugg
    juneaubugg Member Posts: 517
    edited June 2013

    Websister - I love you!  Thank you for sharing that here with us. It's nice to know that type of manager is out there.  My old manager was the exact opposite.  You gave me chills. Re your MRI - I'm waiting impatiently...

    Believe: stay away from me with you yummy bread - I'd plow through that thing in no time and have to run for day sto run it off!

    Ireland... more HUGS.

    Shari- YAY...YAY!!! One more thing to check off the list... and re the weight thing; try to focus on getting healthy, not the weight. I know it's so much easier to say then do - it was a struggle, but once my perspective changed it seemed more manageable. 

    OK ladies just want to share this:

    Today's thought from Hazelden is:

    We Are Who We Think We Are

    How we think about ourselves has an impact on what we do. If we decide that we are less of a person because we have an illness, then we may not fulfill our potential. If we decide our illness will consume our every thought and action for the rest of our lives, then it probably will. If we decide that we will always be a victim and our life will bring us nothing but misfortune, then our life may just turn out that way.

    On the other hand, if we begin to believe positive things about ourselves, eventually our outlook on life will become positive as well. When we believe that we are lovable, that we can cope with our illness, and that we are no less of a person because of it, then this is what shall be. We can change who we are by changing who we believe ourselves to be.

    Today, do I remind myself of my abilities, my choices, and my opportunities?

    Thought for the Day

    My attitude and perspective can make life more positive and joyful.

  • Believe777
    Believe777 Member Posts: 540
    edited June 2013

    Juneau - I'm a believer!

    Websister - your manager sees what we see. Beautiful, inside and out!

  • ramols
    ramols Member Posts: 310
    edited June 2013

    I'm here websister. Getting busy with life! Lots going on with the boys school and camp wise. Including pre-k graduation for my big guy yesterday! Work is very busy and i will be in .our nyc office all week. Worried I will be totally wiped out by Friday night - but think I will feel very accomplished. I missed our EXPO week at work last year since i had just had my BMX. So very excited to be able to join my colleagues and clients this year! What a lovely story about your manager. And hooray for an MRI date!



    Shari - yeah for end of rads! You did it!



    Off to a survivors dinner event for mskcc. Should be fun.



    Love and hugs to you all. Go find your happy!

  • cmbernardi
    cmbernardi Member Posts: 853
    edited June 2013

    Ms. Ireland - I do not think too much of that wheatgrass story.  Lots of myths and quackery out here these days.  So sorry again for your loss and the state you found your former neighbor in.  What a sad mess!

    And Shari - congratulations on finishing radiotherapy.  I have 10 down and 5 to go!  

    Peace y'all.

  • Momof3GreatKids
    Momof3GreatKids Member Posts: 285
    edited June 2013

    I still need to catch up, but wanted to let you all know we closed yesterday on our beach house in NC. I am so excited!!!!!! It is already rented all summer, but we have years to enjoy it. My husband and I had a great few days down in NC by ourselves also. We can't wait until this fall when we can get in there and make it our own. Definetly a HAPPY te for us!



    Noe back to work tomorrow and then to the surgeon to get ready for surgery on July 15th. I am nervous but know this hernia needs to come out so I start feeling better. They say it is the size of a melon and only getting bigger. At least I have the house to look forward to.



    Hugs to everyone that needs them.

  • Scottiee1
    Scottiee1 Member Posts: 1,790
    edited June 2013

    Ireland, you've had quite a day, I'm sorry....you asked about wheatgrass...just about every health nut (including myself here ...lol) I know takes wheatgrass .....I usually just go in and get a shot once in awhile (shot glass that is).....it is much cheaper to buy it and juice it yourself however. To say it's going to cure your cancer....hmm not so much, but it is chalk full of vitamins and minerals and certainly fibre, should you have issues in that department. You can go on line and you will find a plethora of info on it.



    Shari.....congrats on finishing rads....another milestone.



    Websister, yes, beautiful inside and out.



    Juneau...thanks for sharing ....totally agree.



  • Believe777
    Believe777 Member Posts: 540
    edited June 2013

    Momof3 - congrats on your NC home closing! See, the way I think about our purchases is that they are insurance that we will be around to enjoy them. My husband bought into my reasoning. You know what they say Happy Wife, Happy Life! Yes, get that surgery over and into that rear view mirror.

    My husband and I tried juicing. We gained weight! I think we didn't consider portion control. His gout acted up and raw vegetables don't like me. You ladies are brave! Everything in moderation, right.

    My weight isn't budging either but I use my beast and eat well. I guess I will be happy with that for now.

    Cmbernardi - are you able to stay where you are for now?

    The Voice finale is tonight. Since I'm on the West Coast, I feel like I will be the last to know who wins. Does anyone want to post the winner? I like all three of our choices. Since I never get it right, I don't try to pick the winner. I'd hate to Jinx anyone.

  • Scottiee1
    Scottiee1 Member Posts: 1,790
    edited June 2013

    Believe.....I'll post the winner for you.....have been watching since the show started.

  • cmbernardi
    cmbernardi Member Posts: 853
    edited June 2013

    Ms. Believe - yes, I am going to remain here in my Sister's home for the time being.  With the BC and broken left foot, just about everyone I told about moving to my own apartment was against it including my significant other Blaise.  The Captain is starting to thaw a tiny little bit and it is still a joy to be here with my Sister and her boys.  Plus my Pug, Broadway Rudy Giuliani loves being here with his giant cousin Bill the Golden Retriever and the big back yard.  I am 2/3rds. done with my RADS and then must have the oophorectomy next month so I guess it is best to just "grin and bear it" for now.  Depending on how things go after my surgery however I will most likely take a trip home to PA to see my family and VA to be with Blaise for the month of September.  Thanks for thinking of me and inquiring about my welfare though.  I really appreciate it.  Goodnight for now all.

    Carolyn

  • Believe777
    Believe777 Member Posts: 540
    edited June 2013

    Thanks Scottie! I hate waiting. Do you have a favorite?

    CMBernardi - sounds good to me. Rest up for now and you and Rudi enjoy this time as much as possible. You are all always on my mind :-)

  • cmbernardi
    cmbernardi Member Posts: 853
    edited June 2013

    Thank You again Believe!  Laughing

  • Scottiee1
    Scottiee1 Member Posts: 1,790
    edited June 2013

    Believe....Michelle is my favourite, how about you?

  • SwgeeWi
    SwgeeWi Member Posts: 199
    edited June 2013

    Ireland, I'm so sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your neighbor's family in my prayers!



    Shari.....Happy Dance!!!!!!. Congrats on being done with rads! What a great feeling!



    Mom of 3, congrats on your house closing, how exciting!



    Carolyn, you're 2/3 of the way done! Almost there! Woo hoo!!



    Websister, thanks for sharing your story, it is so touching. How nice to be recognized by your manager for your work accomplishments as well as the acknowledgment of your BC struggle. You're so lucky! I don't think there are too many men who get it. ( of course they're very lucky to have you, too!)



    Juneau, how did you become so wise?? I love your posts. Thanks for inspiring me to "get healthy" as my goal instead of some number on a scale. I also reminded myself this morning when I called my friend to tell her that this new job wasn't working out that I deserve to be a valued and respected part of a team and don't deserve to be treated like shit by a condescending woman who treats her employees like crap in front of other coworkers and clients. I'm pretty sure I won't have trouble falling asleep tonight! You don't apologize to people for being a bitch to them (like an apology makes it okay) then continue to behave the same way! It's like a batterer who apologizes for hitting you but continues to do so over and over again. Just had to vent a little, thanks!



    I saw my BS this morning for a one month checkup since my cellulitis and lymphedema. She said it's improving and it could take two years, but it will go away eventually. I just need to continue with the MLD massage, exercises and OT. Apparently my MO was concerned it was IBC (news to me!) My BS would have biopsied it if she didn't see an improvement, but it has gotten better in a month's time. Sucks that it will take so long, but hey, I have time! Ha!



    I hope my DD and I can go for a bike ride on the trail in the morning, I need some happy!

    Love and hugs to you all! Sheila😊



  • Believe777
    Believe777 Member Posts: 540
    edited June 2013

    Scottie - I really do like all three - if I had to pick - I'd say Daniella is a natural and has a great Voice, the boys are darling, they remind me of Ricky Nelson. Im not a Country fan but they are easy to listen too. My friends all like Michelle too. I really like Shakira.

  • Scottiee1
    Scottiee1 Member Posts: 1,790
    edited June 2013

    I really like Blake....💃💃💃

  • Tazzy
    Tazzy Member Posts: 1,442
    edited June 2013

    Cor blimey.... trying to catch up with you lot.   Crazy busy days at work lately - why oh why cant people play nicely in the sandbox - still guess if they did my job security would go down Wink

    Read the posts but too tired to respond to all.   Jumping in pockets when needed, sending big love and hugs to all who need them.  

    Shari - congrats on finishing rads - woo hoo !  Yes another milestone in your rearview mirror.

  • Scottiee1
    Scottiee1 Member Posts: 1,790
    edited June 2013

    Believe, you got your wish, Daniella won and Michelle was the runner up .

  • Believe777
    Believe777 Member Posts: 540
    edited June 2013

    Scottie - Oh my goodness. I never get it right. They were all so talented, they should all get contracts. Very happy for her. Thank you so much. The show doesn't even start here fit an hour. I like Blake and Adam too! I wasn't that familiar with Usher until now. They were great together this season. Thanks again!!

  • Scottiee1
    Scottiee1 Member Posts: 1,790
    edited June 2013

    Believe, my pleasure...❤

  • Believe777
    Believe777 Member Posts: 540
    edited June 2013

    Scottie - thanks again. I enjoyed the whole show - without stress!

    Question for anyone who has an idea if what is going on. I woke up this morning with a black tongue. How gross is that- its coated black. Not sure if its the result of the penicillin I'm taking for my dental work. WebMD didn't seem concerned but thought I'd check with the experts - all if you. Any ideas?

  • liefie
    liefie Member Posts: 761
    edited June 2013

    Believe, never had a black tongue, so can't help you there. It sounds weird. Hope someone comes along with advice soon.

    Swgee, good for you for standing up for yourself, and removing yourself from that situation. Yeah, I hear you about people apologizing for their behaviour, and then go on to do exactly the same thing- does not work like that. You keep doing the massage and exercise - you will reap the benefits. At the moment I have to massage the DIEP scar across my tummy. It is like a tight, hard rope that runs from one hipbone to the other one, and it feels strange. I am supposed to massage it to the point where it is almost uncomfortable - oh well, just one more thing on the way to being 'normal' again -lol.

    Shari, so glad you finished rads. Now your life can settle again - what a ride, eh? Something we would never choose, but at the same time we learn so much from it.

    Cmbernardi, good wishes to you in your situation. Glad things have calmed down for you, and all the best for the remaining rads. Not long to go now!

  • Scottiee1
    Scottiee1 Member Posts: 1,790
    edited June 2013

    Believe.....no idea either and please don't quote me on this but It probably has something to do with your antibiotics....can you not just make a quick call to your GP

    for reasurrence?

  • loral
    loral Member Posts: 818
    edited June 2013

    Believe-Pepto Bismol pills give me a black tongue. Maybe something in the antibiotic, no harm, just ugly...

  • shianne29
    shianne29 Member Posts: 282
    edited June 2013

    Hey everyone, chatty Cathy's you've all been.

    Shari YAY!!!! WOOOHOOOOO!!!! I hope you are celebrating but resting up still. Any ill effects will be easing up in about a week, then it will all be a distant memory. You ave done so well, and come so far. I'm so proud of you LOVE AND HUGS!!!!

    Websister, your story of your manager made me tear up. Not enough bosses like that.