Lumpectomy Lounge....let's talk!
Comments
-
linzer: besides taking someone with you to your appointments to take notes, ask if it's OK for you to record the appt using the voice message recorder on an ipod or phone. My docs encouraged recording, and it was so helpful to go back and listen again when my mind could focus, especially when they went over numbers and percentages.
0 -
This group IS amazing. I never thought I'd have anything to contribute. I'm new, don't know much, but I feel I do know a few things. And it's nice to put everyone's unique experience together to get an idea of what YOU might experience, what to look for, etc.
Linzer, I love your "hunt and harvest" - that's perfect because that is truly what is being done IMHO.
0 -
Note to Cindy and Deb: You are so wonderful, the way you help us and encourage us. I just want to say THANK YOU for your posts and I am so happy to be out here with you and all the other girls.
I know you will say we all help each other and it's true, we do but I just want you to know how appreciated you are by all of us.
Donna
0 -
Donna, thank you for those lovely words. They made me smile. You're absolutely right though, I am going to say that it's all of us together that make this thread work so well.
Cindy has been my lifeline more than once and I also chose to post my thanks to her in this forum.
The support and understanding that I have found here make my own troubles seem less urgent somehow. And I really need that some days. We all do. Just for a few moments we can talk to people who really get it! Then, of course, it's back to work, being a mom, wife, or whatever it is that fills our days.
My thanks to all of you who have chatted with me and made me feel better.
Okay, now we need a pocket party!! Who's in?
{{{{{huggles}}}}
Deb
0 -
Have you ever noticed how hard it is to accept thanks from someone? You want to brush it off with an 'o it's nothing'. Yet, you are trying to help, so Donna, if I'm the Deb you are referring to and if I was able to help you in some way, your welcome.
Puffin, I have heard that people have recorded their convos with their docs, but when it was my turn I was too shy to ask. Too new to the process I guess. But I really think it's a super idea.
Linzer, I don't think we've met but hi. Oh and I liked ''hunt and harvest" too.
{{{{hugs}}}}
Deb
0 -
RedReading: I just whipped out my iPod, with it all ready to hit record, and said "OK if I record what you tell us, I expect it's going to be way more than I can absorb in one sitting". He said no problem, I hit record and set the ipod off to the side, Did the same thing with the other 2 docs, no one minded at all.
0 -
Well, the last few days have been hell. Hubby was so sick that we couldn't even get him to stand up, couldn't think, really out of it. Called 9-1-1 and had an ambulance take him to the ER. Bladder infection. They kept him for 2 days and got him hydrated and made sure he was on the right antibiotic.
Not to be outdone, I discovered I had some blotchy pinkness (not red!) on the underside of bad booby near the incision. And it was rather solid - it had been squishy. I've been swollen but the surgeon was okay with that. So I called her at 10 last night and she called right back. Told me to come in today. That was challenging. Had to get hubby home from the hospital and he wasn't discharged until an hour before my appointment (which is only 10 minutes away). Managed to make lunch for him and me, left #1 son to make his own. And off to my appointment. Yup, the very beginning of a possible infection. She prescribed the ONLY antibiotic I can take so we'll kill that thing off.
Thank heavens for my sons. I don't know what I'd have done without them. #2 son left Sunday morning and #1 came in Sunday afternoon and leaves this coming Sunday. Hopefully we'll experience total boredom for some time now. Hubby has his cancerous tumor on his kidney removed on Sept 15th.
So glad for this group!!!
0 -
I had my lumpectomy July 30 with sentinel node biopsy. My lymph node was clean so my surgeon onc only took one lymph node. Still waiting on pathology report for clear margins. My drain tube however is trying to work its way out. I dont have much drainage now and am supposed to get it out tomorrow but I am in so much pain at the drain site and from my lymph node site. I hate when people tell you that you shouldn't be in that much pain it was just a lumpectomy. UGG
0 -
Oh, Nancy, that's awful. I was lucky and didn't have a drain (my Lx and SNB [5] was Jul 23) and I didn't ever have much pain, thankfully. But I'm going crazy with EVERYTHING annoying my incisions. Discomfort rather than pain. Don't take anything for it. Does Tylenol help at all or your pain pills? Just hold on till tomorrow and the damn drain will be GONE! It is NEVER "just" a lumpectomy. It's major surgery. And no one should tell you how much pain you should have. Tell them that and glare at them!
0 -
To all the new "lumpies" welcome to this fantastic group of caring and sharing women. I just celebrated my one year anniversary and had my first mammogram since surgery. I was so lucky to have an incredibly caring tech who made sure it didn't hurt as I was beyond worried about squishing my poor boob that has been through so much! I remember sitting in that same room a year ago and hearing the news that my mammogram found a suspicious area and my heart sinking as I knew it was going to be cancer - which it turned out to be. Things moved very quickly and before I knew it I had two lumpectomies and a SNB and then radiation. I couldn't have done it alone without all the "pocket parties" and "happy dances" that was shared by everyone here! All the questions that were answered helped so much and the great information I gleaned here from all the other lumpies was invaluable to me. Cindy provided much needed encouragement and humor and I am thankful that she still does. I just wanted to say "thank you" to all you beautiful women.
Hugs,
Mar
0 -
Thank you PontiacPeggy, My pain pills help some but I am almost out now. Ill be glad when tomorrow gets here.
0 -
Just take the pain pills. That's what they're for. Some help is better than none! HUGS. In your pocket for tomorrow!
0 -
Dear ncollett
Welcome to Breastcancer.org. We're sorry you have to be here, but glad you found us!
Besides sharing your experiences and learning from other members here at the boards, you may also want to take a look at the Breast Cancer 101section from the main site, designed to help you sort through all of the information on our site to find what is more relevant to you right now.
Also reliable information on IDC — Invasive Ductal Carcinoma where you'll learn about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, etc.
We hope this helps! Waiting for pathology results is a very difficult time.
The Mods
0 -
Good morning! I need to post this on a few boards as I mentioned it on a few so sorry for any duplications!
I was very happy with the PS consult! I was not sure if I would be told that I was not a candidate for FG or truly, WHAT I would be told. I have a 3D mammogram in October and told her I want to wait until after that just to make sure, would not want to go thru this FG procedure to then get disappointing news from the mammogram but WE KNOW I will get great news, right?!
So, my DH came with me as he does to all doctor visits, he is so wonderful. I am 40 pounds overweight so I knew I had enough fat SOMEWHERE to help refill my left breast and adjust the right one so they look more like each other! I told DH that this is different from lipo where the patient wants to get thinner, the amount of fat extracted for what I need is not going to make me skinny but he had to hear it from the PS, which is a good thing.
The plan is a final consult and prep on October 14 and then it will be scheduled for November. October 23 is the 3D Mammo so I will still have time to postpone if I need to. Need a full physical in October from my primary. She did tell me that for this one, she wants me knocked out and it will not be done in her office and the actual procedure would be about an hour. If I need any "touch ups" she may do them in her office. She explained the procedure which most of us know (light liposuction to the abdominal area, separate the good fat from the liquid, inject via needle into the breasts) - I think it's sort of an "eye ball" approach (as in - OK, they look good). She did explain that some people need several touch ups because they just can't say how much will be absorbed, how much will survive, if there are any areas in the breast tissue that are like pockets and the fat settles in there, etc. I am OK with all of this and truly, if they just look better and there's not a huge difference like now, I probably would not go in for touch ups but I can't guaranty that!!!! She measured both from my collar bone and whatever that measurement was she was pleased with and I don't think she believes my fill will be a big deal - not minimizing the procedure but I understand what she is saying because she sees masectomy patients, etc so for her, I am probably an easy one!!!!!!
Recovery was a little more than I read about - she said plan to be out of work 5-7 days, compression garments I THINK she said for 4-6 weeks, swelling and bruising - - she said even though it's not quite as intense as lipo for weight loss, it is still basically the same procedure.
Anyone have insight on their FG experience?
I feel a sense of relief that I am able to do this. I do not have large breasts, like a B cup (well now an A or AA and a B.....lol). I just want to be able to look in the mirror and "feel" like my breasts are happy!
0 -
Yes Deb, RedReading - it was YOU
I know it's a challenge sometimes to accept thanks and really I send thanks out to all who share their experiences.
0 -
Good Morning Lumpies!
Ncollet - Welcome to the lounge and the club no one wants to join! So glad you found us, but grr this c. Hope that today is a good day for you more meds and that darn drain soon to go...yes, the SND is the most uncomfortable...everything seems to rub right there ugh:( we will be in your pocket {{{squeeze}}} Be sure and ask your BS about arm exercise and LE especially since you needed a drain...you don't want to overdo your arm...so ask and pamper yourself it takes time! Breathe, go blow some bubbles, read a book outside, enjoy summertime!
Puffin - yes, recording is a great means to be able to capture just what did the DR say. Hope you are resting well and gearing up for laser tag rads! Remember to hydrate, moisturize, and free boobing the girl loves the air!
Peggy - how are you. Glad #2 son is there now:) How's DH? So many questions:) you are our weight lifter...Lebed DVD is great for movement&LE so is blowing bubbles. Here's to a calm fun week with so ...no drama...just smiles&laughs&good conversation.
Donna - thank you! Lumpie Lounge is a lifeline to so many of us in those first days weeks trying to figure it all out and not knowing what to expect...so many of us here are playing it forward in honor and thanks for those who did for us. Red/Deb and just love pocket parties too! As do all Lumpies:))) right Peggy & Mar!
Canuck - yippee Ooo who! Happy 1st Anniversary Dance! So happy for you! Glad the tech was careful with the girl...not too much squash just the right amount to get a good look! The first years starts off so slow and then rads seems like forever in the countdown and then done and the whew I made it out alive and some PTSD&SA for our team and then adjustment to our new normal and...LIFE
get out there and enjoy!Some voices are missing...Lori, Ramona, Linzer, Mari, et al.
Waiting for LX! Waiting to here path results for a few of you...fingers&toes crossed.
(((Hugs)))
Cindy
0 -
I'm awfully glad son is here too. DH is better but still not functioning real well. Mornings are always a challenge. My LNB incision isn't being annoying right now! Can't say that the pinkness or swelling of my poor girl has improved. Should take a couple more days on antibiotics. Still teach #1 Son how to toss DH around. Thank heavens both boys are REALLY strong. They can do things I can't. I have to finesse since I'm not as strong. And it works most of the time.
Ncollett, hope you've had your drain tossed away by now and are much more comfortable! Ask about more pain pills or what you should be taking.
I haven't recorded anything - I'm a writing person. But it is a very good idea.
Donna, we're here to support, hug, cry and whatever else you need. This is the best group! Our pocket parties are infamous. And oh so helpful! Knowing you have friends holding your hand and making your pockets do interesting things makes it so you can breathe a bit.
Definitely Happy 1st, Canuck. I haven't thought that far ahead as to what my first post Lx mammogram. Still have to make sure no chemo (oncotype results Aug 19) is necessary and then radiation and hormone therapy. Your experience is encouraging!
0 -
I am so glad to have found you all here! I am going to the BS at 2p so hopefully this thing connected to my side causing me pain will come out today and I will get my pathology report too. Its been hard for me as my husband has to work since I am just PT and dont have any benefits and dont have anyone who can help me at home. Its been a challenge. Especially when those who could help dont think I really need it and that I am cured now that I have had surgery. What they dont understand is yes it was good news that I didnt have any mets in my lymph nodes but I have just began my journey and am not near done nor cured yet. I am however very hopeful and thankful for all God is doing in my life.
0 -
Wow.. so great to read your posts. It's wonderful that we have a place to share and get support when we need it most. Thanks for your suggestions about recording and asking lots of questions. Sage advice.
Peggy - so sorry you and your husband have additional challenges to face, as if what you're going through already isn't more than enough.
Nancy - thanks for sharing your lx and lymph node experience with me. I hope that having the drain out offers you more relief and quick healing. Yes, it is surgery and people sometimes don't get that.
Happy first, Canuk. It seems so far away for me at this point, but it's nice to be reminded that it WILL be here
Dogsnever - we're sort of neighbors. I live in Mass. I hope that your plan for your next phase is in place soon and that you are comfortable with it.
Off to take a nap! Had my 9th taxol today. Only 3 more to go before LX!!
Linda
0 -
Linzer, sounds like you are doing darned good! Yeah, only 3 left! Bet you can't wait. We all have challenges, Linda, but it would be rather nice to space them out, rather than all at once. But we're coping. Just need to get rid of my very mild infection ASAP!
I do agree that a one year anniversary seems far away. But it is doable!
0 -
Well good news is drain is out yay!! And yes I feel much better. Still sore but better. Bad news is I have one stubborn margin that didnt want to come clean so back to surgery I go probably at the end of the month. I go back on the 19th to discuss this more.. Are there any more questions I should ask my BS? Im kinda in a fog and trying to take all this in still.
0 -
I'm doing well. I've been very blessed with no pain, only a little bit of discomfort. I return to work tomorrow, and then next week is packed with appointments.
Monday evening it's the ACS "Look Good Feel Better" class.
Tuesday is an echocardiogram.
Wednesday is 2nd surgical follow up and 2nd apt with radiation oncologist.
Thursday is "Chemoteach". I'm not exactly sure, but I think it's chemo school.
Monday 8/18 is port installation, and Wednesday 8/20 is my first chemo infusion.
Also somewhere in there, yet to be scheduled, is a PET scan and a CT scan.
Prior to starting chemo, I am going to have my hair stylist friend dye my hair purple or blue, and also cut it short. I've decided I'm a scarf gal, not a wig gal, so I've been doing some searching online.
A cousin who went through breast cancer a few years ago sent me a copy of "Uplift" and I've read almost all of it.
And I think that's all that's going on in my world right now.
0 -
Nancy, so glad you're drain is out! Boo hiss, that your margins weren't clean. Damn. At least they can go back in and take care of it. I can see why you're in a fog. I would be too.
Ramona, you HAVE been busy. Lots going on in your world. You might want to update your profile with all that you've had done and been through. That's often helpful for others walking your path. Love that you're going to dye your hair. That's awesome. At least you've figured out what you want to do ahead of time. I'll have to look up that book - sounds like it resonated with you.
Love to you all!
0 -
Ramona, I blogged about port insertion. I'm no expert, but it may help to read it:
her2whoneu.blogspot.com
I'm also working on an entry for the Look Good class I attended yesterday
0 -
Guess I've gotten total acceptance and non-shyness about my Lx from #1 Son. I picked up something very light with my effected arm and it pulled on my bra and winced, pulled the damn bra down and went on. Son was right there and said you didn't even LIFT anything and laughed at me when I explained. This was very good.
0 -
Ramona that is awesome that you have such a great outlook on your adventure. As of now I dont have to have chemo but Im with you I think I would style the scarfs too. There are some really cool ones out there.
0 -
Had an awesome time at the Look Good Feel Better class, so much fun,
learned I was wearing my wig wrong and now no longer need the bangs
trimmed. Lew took my picture when I came home, so I've changed my photo on the site to show my new look.Labs drawn today, passed
everything so it's a go for tomorrow's chemo. Have my list of questions
ready and my bag is packed, port cream ready, bag of flavored ice chips
and my homemade popsicles ready to go into the cooler.Have also started my dexa so may be back on at 3!
0 -
Puffin,
Best of luck tomorrow. Sounds like you are well prepared. Look forward to your pictures.
0 -
Hello I'm fairly new here but keep coming back and decided to post tonight.
I was diagnosed with LCIS after a stereotactic biopsy on July 8. Was then sent for an MRI the following week and they discovered a 4cm mass behind the biopsy site. Had a horrible experience with first surgeon consult so found another one that I love! I had a lumpectomy on my right breast this morning and the area removed was a little larger than a racquetball (so I was told). Now another agonizing wait for path results. Ugh.
I've been icing all day and when I decided to stop and actually look at my breasts, I was shocked and saddened to see a huge difference between the two. The nipple on my right is nearly 2" higher than the left! Could some of this be from swelling? I hope? I still don't know what my future holds but I'm vacillating from warrior to wimp daily sometimes hourly. So emotional right now and the return of hot flashes is not helping!
It is so comforting to have this place to be honest and feel safe to vent. No need for the "game face" if you know what I mean?
Thank you all for the support and guidance you give even to those of us that might be a little shyer to post!
0 -
Hi Lorrilynne,
I understand all about the game face! I have one for my kids and one for my husband! I am amazed that you had a lumpectomy this morning and are able to type tonight!
The waiting is difficult! I had my surgery 2 weeks ago and get my pathology report tomorrow. Hang in there; you are not alone!
Yes, you are swollen! It will take a while to know what your after surgery breasts will look like. I full on "ugly cried" the first time I saw my post surgery breasts. A complete warrior/wimp situation! (I'm feeling good about them now. It was just a lot to deal with.)
I had a lumpectomy on my right breast and surgery on my left breast to make it match my right breast in size. My breasts are now smaller and higher than before, thanks to the fine work of my plastic surgeon. This may be an option for you. This is covered by insurance in California. I encourage you to talk to your surgeon about your options.
Hope this helps you! You are not alone.
0
