Ladies in their 30s?

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  • fujiimama
    fujiimama Member Posts: 236
    edited October 2013

    Aic yay! Thought I'd say hi! 

    If d hormonal. Who knows? I did fall into the late pregnancy first at just shy of 30. Nursed for a full year. Second child nursed for 16 months. Third was nursing when I found out. Odds 1-100,000. No family history of BC. History for colon and esophageal. Super dense breast. I realized later that I had brought up weird issues with that breast before the beginning of my last pregnancy. Even had an ultrasound done. It was simply too hard to see until I was able to have a biopsy. I quit playing the what if game. I tried, they tried, @&&&&; happens. I am glad at times I didn't know. Being pregnant and knowing I had cancer at the same time would have been hard. Women have done it and my heart goes out to them. I am NED. My life is good. My kids are absolutely amazing. If knowing, before I was pregnant, means my youngest would not have been created... I am happy with right now. Today is the only day I need to get thorough. He tells me I am the best momma ever. He warms my heart. Just saying. It's easy to want to know why. Just don't go too crazy doing it.



  • aic
    aic Member Posts: 37
    edited October 2013


    Thank you ladies! If I can figure out how to post pics when the time comes I will. Kjones, sorry to hear of reoccurrence but glad it's not elsewhere!

  • Freedomchild82
    Freedomchild82 Member Posts: 4
    edited October 2013


    I am 31 years old and just found out a few weeks ago. I have 2 kids.

  • mtcplus2
    mtcplus2 Member Posts: 3
    edited October 2013


    Hi Ladies, I wish it weren't true but it's nice to see others that are going through and sharing the same feelings as I am. I'm a single mom of 2 boys ages 10 and 8. The past 2 years have been taxing. My mets are bone only which started in my hips, spin, and femur. Last year around this time I had a rod put into my left femur to prevent breakage. Most of the lesions in my spin have be resolved so its mainly in my hips/iliac. My recent tumor marker count was a bit high (537) but my PET scan is showing decrease in activity. As you all know there are good and bad days but I feel better knowing I'm not alone and have a place to come to with people that understand. Many prayers and blessings.... Thank you


    P.S. By any chance anyone in Central Florida?

  • kjones13
    kjones13 Member Posts: 662
    edited October 2013


    I look at the boards and I'm so thankful to be where I am in my journey. Seeing the words chemo next to the date October 2013 makes me want to vomit. My heart goes out to the ones who are just starting or continuing on chemo. You are strong and brave. One day at a time. My mastectomy was so much easier than I expected. Waiting on the pathology and whether radiation is in my future. I just wish I could pass on some of the strength I am feeling tonight. Rest up sisters.

  • ipray2911
    ipray2911 Member Posts: 2
    edited October 2013


    Hi all!


    I'm new here; I saw this particular forum and thought I'd chime in. I'm not 30...but close enough (28th b-day is in two weeks). I'm married and have two kid, age 2 and 4. I'm the 5th generation to be dx'd in my family with NO current gene history..no, really, we've checked! We're in all kinds of studies right now through MD Anderson and University of Washington hoping to find our familial link.


    I'm recently diagnosed and so far doing okay, obviously being 5th generation it wasn't too much of a shock just more or less my age. I just need a solid group of ladies to connect with as I don't have a very easy time finding people my age walking the walk I'm on. So far I'm on my 7th round of taxol and am possibly about to change to FAC treatment due to possibly not responding to my taxol (awaiting test results). Ah, joys of chemo right :( I look forward to getting to know some people around here to help me cope with my days.

  • nbnotes
    nbnotes Member Posts: 338
    edited October 2013


    ipray2911 - sorry that you are joining us, but welcome at the same time! I'm 3rd generation, but like you, we've done every available test. We just keep getting told that it is family related; we just don't know the specific gene yet.

  • brandall
    brandall Member Posts: 97
    edited October 2013


    Hi Ipray2911 - sorry you have to be here, but it is nice to have support! I find it really interesting that you are 5th generation without the known genetic links. I'm glad they are studying your family! I know they think there are at LEAST 5 more undiscovered genetic links out there. When I met with the University of Colorado Research Hospital (who have 1 of the prominent researchers and 1 of the prominent oncologists - you often see them sited in articles on breast cancer specifically in young women) they indicated that they currently believe that pretty much anyone who gets it at a young age likely has a genetic component, they just haven't discovered them yet. That being said, I didn't have have any family history at all, so my diagnosis at 36 was a bit of a surprise! I too have 2 young kiddos (they were almost 3 and almost 6 at my diagnosis - now 4 and 7) and I think that is the hardest part. Thinking of them having huge momentous occasions in their life that I won't be there for...or even worse, that makes them sad (that I'm not there) and somehow diminishes those occasions for them. But I just have to keep plugging away everyday and hope for the best. I always pray at night that a researcher has a REALLY great day the next day ;)


    Anyway, sorry you are here, but glad you found us!


    Nbnotes - didn't get a chance to comment on your dolphin pic in the other thread, LOVE it!!!

  • MamaPeg2
    MamaPeg2 Member Posts: 19
    edited October 2013


    Question? How many of you have had a Mirena? I had my first one for heavy bleeding when I was 44. Normal mammogram 9/2011 - 2nd Mirena put in 10/2011 and 9/2012 Stage IV with liver mets. I have 2 close friends in the same situation. Lawyers won't take it on - too many different dx. I have the best doctors and feel blessed as far as that goes. I have made it to my one year anniversary.

  • karebear76
    karebear76 Member Posts: 150
    edited November 2013


    Hi,


    I am 36 (almost 37) and I was just diagnosed with stage IV metastatic BC. It is a recurrence as I was first diagnosed with IDC stage 3b Dec 1,2010 when I was 34.

  • RCR
    RCR Member Posts: 6
    edited November 2013


    Hi. This is my very first post on this sight that I have been reading for two days now. I have never been a part of any support group since being diagnosed in February of 2012. Stage II with 2 positive nodes and possible submamillary node that could not be biopsied. And a suspicious area on my ilium that we would watch. I was 38 at first diagnosis with three little girls. They all just had birthdays to be ages 2, 4, and 6. I began with four months of chemo followed by double masectomy and radiation with Zometa infusions every three months for my suspicious ilium. Have been on Tomoxifen since then, but estrogen levels were too high so began having monthly Zolidex injections which has put me into menopause this last summer in 2013. Pet scans every six months have not shown significant change until a month ago when my spot on my ilium grew from 6mm to 9mm. My onc found someone who thought they could biopsie it. It was done 4 days ago and I found out 2 days ago I am stage IV. I knew it would be positive in my gut, but still wanted to hear otherwise. I am so scared just like being diagnosed all over again, almost. I think I may be able to handle my own diagnosis, but I cannot face the possibility of not being there for my sweet little ladies through their lives and their own hurdles! I feel like I am on a roller coaster emotional ride! This forum is so helpful and appreciated. Most of my family and friends can't understand how alone I can feel even though I am surrounded by people who love and care and would do everything they can to help me. I see my radiologist next Tuesday and onc on Friday to figure out my plan. Ready to get this show on road with more gusto than ever!

  • aic
    aic Member Posts: 37
    edited November 2013


    Wow, I am so sorry to see all the new ladies on here but welcome. You couldn't be in better hands on here. We share are ups and downs and am pleased to call so many of these ladies friends. Feel free to ask, vent etc. We are here for you!

  • stagefree
    stagefree Member Posts: 360
    edited November 2013


    I am with aic, sadly welcoming you all.. I am second generation but highly suspect being third instead, as my granny wasn't properly dx'ed before her fast-paced journey to heaven.. Admit I envy her at times, cool to just say bye the last minute without the mmm well scary c- rollercoaster ride.


    Anyway, opened my eyes this morning to see my dh snoring right next to me! So still alive for some more fun here.. I do this every morning, feels like being born each day over and over again.


    Too young for this? Nope.. I know by heart noone is ever ready for this experience in their lives while still alive. So focus on enjoying my early retirement & occasional pain-free days, the best that I can.


    Bonding with the sisters here rock! Such that my dh even asks about how everyone's doing as if we are nextdoor neighbors :)))


    Hope we get to stick around for more quality time than expected by statistics and beat the crap of this earthly journey to the limit!


    Hugs & welcome again


    Ebru

  • fujiimama
    fujiimama Member Posts: 236
    edited November 2013

    Welcome ladies, 

    Sucks to have to be here, but AIC and Ebru put it well. This is a great group some of us are even NED on treatment. Ebru I completely get the envy of going quickly. My Great grandfather was diagnosed with colon cancer at 48. He passed in weeks, I find myself wondering what those last few weeks were like. He had six kids ages 16-on the way. I am grateful for everyday. Modern medicine has it's ups and downs. My youngest turned three today. I've been enjoying 2.5 years with BC, but he makes me smile.

  • CJRT
    CJRT Member Posts: 221
    edited November 2013


    have any of you ladies had mets to a lymph node? if so, did you notice any discomfort in the area. I get occasional mild aching for a second or two in the general region (but it's also near where my bra hits and near my mastectomy region). i have had a stable metastatic lymph node that has remained relatively unchanged over the past 10 months, with my most recent PET scan two months ago. i think I always had some mild discomfort there but hadn't given it much thought until recently. was trying to do google research (not good, I know!) to see if mild pain in the area meant anything like it was growing or spreading, etc.

  • NicoleJasien
    NicoleJasien Member Posts: 6
    edited November 2013


    Hi I'm Nicole and I am 30. I was just diagnosed with mets last week so this is all very new to me. I have 3 kids ages 5, 7, and 9. Nice to meet you all.

  • nbnotes
    nbnotes Member Posts: 338
    edited November 2013


    NicoleJasien -


    Sorry that you've had to join our club, but welcome! I'm sure it is all a bit overwhelming right now, but the stage 4 boards are wonderful for information, support, etc.

  • brandall
    brandall Member Posts: 97
    edited November 2013


    Hi NicoleanJasien, I'm sorry you have to join us, but it is a very supportive group. I read your blog, you have a lot going on! It was nice to read about your faith, I struggle with that a bit myself. This is a nice place to unload your fear and worries to ladies who understand!


    Nbnotes - nice to see you! How are you doing?


    CJRT - I only had cancer in my axillary lymph nodes and I honestly had no idea they were swollen or anything until they did the ultrasound.


    Let's do a check - in! I would love to hear how everyone is doing!! I just had a PET scan and it was all clear. Which was a huge relief since my tumor markers had jumped and my liver enzyme levels had skyrocketed. Of course I found that out the day before I left on vacation, which put a tiny damper on things. Luckily my DH is super funny and he can usually laugh me right out of my moods. We were celebrating our 10 year wedding anniversary. Now, let's hope I'm here to celebrate 15 and 20 and beyond ;)


    Check-in ladies!

  • CJRT
    CJRT Member Posts: 221
    edited November 2013


    brandall- thanks! my TM were thankfully low and stable, so i'm hoping it's just a fluke or random pain. i have a scan next month, so we will see. i'm also getting a second opinion next month. in the meantime, i'm feeling good and living life! your hubby sounds like mine. have to have a good sense of humor to get through this! :)


    welcome nicole! Sorry you have to join this group, but such a wonderful group of women.


    happy thanksgiving to you all. i'm grateful to have this group.

  • nbnotes
    nbnotes Member Posts: 338
    edited November 2013


    Brandall - I'm doing well! My last tumor markers were stable, but we are getting another PTscan in before all of the changes. That is going to be on Tuesday; so, I'm a bit nervous about it. Hopefully, the markers are still a good predictor. I was so glad to hear that your scan was good!

  • kjones13
    kjones13 Member Posts: 662
    edited December 2013


    had a ct scan last Tuesday to check on the ole' liver...it continues to be unchanged and stable since February! I hope h/p will keep me stable for a long time. I am very thankful for you women and for your honesty here on the boards. They (you all) bring me much comfort.

  • aic
    aic Member Posts: 37
    edited December 2013


    Great news kjones! Hoping for great news for you nbnotes! Brandall, happy anniversary and I hope for many more for you. My 37th birthday is Thursday. I have scans on the 9th with results on 11th. Trying to focus on all the good but these damn scans have me really stressed this time. I think it's just praying I don't get bad news around the holidays. Hate being scared but I am. Lucky to be Ned but always scared that will change. Stupid cancer. I miss worrying about dumb shit. And I hate feeling every three months like I am going to get the best news or have my feet taken out from under me. Sorry ladies...had to vent to the only people that truly understand. Try to not focus on this damn disease but scan time always gets me. Much love to you all!

  • LadyJaye
    LadyJaye Member Posts: 5
    edited December 2013


    CJRT....what have your doctors said about having your ovaries removed? I talked to my oncs today and they seem to feel that having the organs removed would stop most of my estrogen production, but given that I am overweight and my fat cells produce estrogen (as well as other glands and such), it wasn't worth the risk of surgery. Any input??? I'm open to feedback from all.


    I'm starting Xeloda as scans found a mass in my pelvis..joy of joys...would love any feedback anyone has to offer.

  • CJRT
    CJRT Member Posts: 221
    edited December 2013


    LadyJaye- That's interesting that your oncs thought that the benefits weren't worth the risks. Perhaps that has to do with your current medication regime, your current health status, or how well they think any ovarian suppression medication you are on may be working. I'm currently having monthly Zoladex injections until I have my ovaries out. My MO did recommend eventually getting my ovaries out down the road "when it's convenient." I had been through a hip replacement earlier this year and didn't want to make me go through too much at once. She said that I can remain on Zoladex for similar estrogen-suppression benefits (since she isn't concerned about the ovarian cancer risk for me) for up to 2 years. When I had a consult at one of the top NCI sites, the MO there recommended that I get them out "sooner rather than later." When I asked about surgical risks, they indicated that they were minimal and did not seem concerned. I believe that AIs are given to address the estrogen production outside of the ovaries. I'm actually going for yet another opinion and will let you know if they say anything different.

  • kjones13
    kjones13 Member Posts: 662
    edited December 2013


    aic--scanxiety sucks! No matter what I do, I always worry. I have gotten into the habit of thinking the worst so I'll "be prepared..." That sounds really stupid now that I've said it outloud...it's already such a stressful time of year and then to add a scan on top of it! I will be saying prayers for you that the scans continue to keep you dancing with Ned! Just breathe!

  • onestepatatimetosurvive
    onestepatatimetosurvive Member Posts: 8
    edited December 2013


    Hi Ladies! I read this thread a lot but I don't know if I've ever posted. I am 33 years old with 3 young children. I am stage IV with metastasis to my bones and liver. I have had a complete radical hysterectomy, radical mastectomy on the left side, and just finished reconstruction due to issues with infections. I have been on Xeloda since August 2013 and I was doing great! My pain had all gone away and my tumor markers had dropped- until about 2 weeks ago. Pain came back and tumor markers on the rise. So my MO thinks the cancer has already become resistant to the Xeloda. I also get a shot of Xgeva each month to strengthen my bones. I'm really not sure what the next step is as far as treatment options go- but I am frustrated because my MO says no need to do a scan anytime soon. Considering getting a second opinion. Any thoughts?

  • MDtoMom
    MDtoMom Member Posts: 11
    edited December 2013


    Hi All


    My first post, but have read and learned a lot these past few months from this forum. I am 37 years old, with a 1 and 5 year old, diagnosed in the beginning with stage IV in March (started with mets to liver and bone, now have progressed to brain and lung). Appreciate learning from others experience and hope to add my own as I go through this journey.

  • brandall
    brandall Member Posts: 97
    edited December 2013


    CJRT - I'm glad your tumor markers are stable! Let us know how the second opinion goes!


    Nbnotes - Glad to "see" you! How did your scan go? Any results yet?


    Kjones - YAY for stable! I'm glad we are all here to support each other too.


    aic - Happy Birthday! I love celebrating birthday's now! Bring on old age LOL! I know what you mean about all the worry and scanxiety. I'm actually thinking of not getting my blood drawn this month because I don't want to have bad news with my tumor markers before Christmas. I JUST had a clean PET scan before Thanksgiving and I'm already worried that "maybe the cancer was there, but not big enough to detect on a PET yet"...blah,blah,blah. I often see people complain on facebook about stupid crap and I wish with all my heart that my only problem was the crap they are moaning about! Have a wonderful birthday lady!


    Ladyjaye - I'm overweight (more so since chemo) and neither my Onc or the Gyn Onc hesitated to recommend removing my ovaries. For me personally I wanted to feel like I was doing everything I could to keep the cancer at bay. Because I was pre-menopausal I also wanted to be in menopause in case I progress so I could move on to other anti-hormonal drugs. I do know that fat produces some estrogen, but taking out the big estrogen makers and being on Tamoxifen makes me feel pretty pro-active. The surgery itself wasn't too bad. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask :)


    Onestep - I'm sorry that Xeloda seems to have stopped working. What reasoning did your MO give for not wanting to do a scan? Tumor markers are a good tool, but they are not always reliable. Before I switched treatments, I would want to make sure that I got the full ride out of the one I was on. So I personally would want the scan to see what is there. So I think I would seek out a second opinion, unless your MO gave you a convincing reason why they didn't want to do the scan. Hang in there!


    MDtoMom - Welcome to the group! I'm truly sorry that you have to be here, but I'm glad you found us! Were you a doctor (just looking at your screen name). It is hard to have little kids with this disease, but it can also be a welcome distraction! Hard to wallow in self pity (which I think I might be prone to do!) when your little ones just want you to make them a peanut butter sandwich :)


    Thanks everyone for checking in (we are still missing a few...check in ladies!). So I was in a small funk the other day. We went and saw the new Hunger Games movie and after it was over I got depressed at the fact that there is a good chance I won't be around to see the 3rd or 4th movie. Stupid stuff like that just seems to kind of smack you in the face! Like every time I buy something online and have to put in the expiration date for my credit card!

  • MDtoMom
    MDtoMom Member Posts: 11
    edited December 2013


    Hi brandall


    Thanks for the support. I was a doctor but now am focusing on what's important, the family! I also agree with you about watching movies and TV shows, I never had time to watch a lot before, but now, I need the distraction! I am glad I got through Breaking Bad, and I am just finishing up Games of Thrones. I really hope I make it through the Walking Dead. It's funny how such mundane things matter when you are dealing with the serious stuff! Spent 6 years in Denver for training, loved it, but the weather is so nice out here in CA!

  • brandall
    brandall Member Posts: 97
    edited December 2013


    MDtoMom - I would take that warm CA weather today...it is 5 degrees outside! It was -10 when I had to take my kids to school - Brrrr! I watch the Walking Dead :)