Any Texas Hill Country BC Warriors?

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  • jumbledbamboo
    jumbledbamboo Member Posts: 31

    Thats the thing. No one is offering help. It really sucks. I had a brain stem stroke at 31 and didn't really get help even then. I know its kind of my fault. I turned it away when I shouldn't have. But now people say they will call and don't Plus my family like so many, is spread out. My husband is kind of in denial of how sick I feel. This is just bleeding me dry emotionally. I love people so much, but maybe I just don't show it enough to get help.

  • keepthefaith
    keepthefaith Member Posts: 856

    JB-welcome! I'm not sure what kind of help you might need or what facilities you have close to you, but the American Cancer Society has a lot of resources. You may have to reach out and ask for specific help, if you need it from family or friends. Sometimes those around us don't really know how to react or what we need, so they don't do anything. It's a hard time for everyone going through this. You may want to join a local support group or ask your medical team for guidance. Sometimes outside help is beneficial, such as counseling. I'm single, so don't have a partner to second guess...sometimes I'm thankful for that! Sounds kind of selfish, but true. Of course, you can always come here to vent! There is a local group called the Breast Cancer Resource Center of Central Texas. I'm not sure what geographical areas they cover. Wishing you well as you move forward. It seems very daunting right now, but you can do this!

    ((HUGS))


  • vbishop
    vbishop Member Posts: 332

    JB - Here is a resource in your area that may be helpful:

    http://cancersupporttexas.org/

    Of course, we are always here to lend an ear and words of encouragement. Cancer sucks!  But you don't have to do it alone.  We're here!

  • NY2TXbaby
    NY2TXbaby Member Posts: 113

    So disgusted.I had a lot of breakdown of my skin over the weekend - so painful. Couldn't even stand to have clothes on. Today was supposed to be my third of five boosts but the doctor said my skin was so bad and raw they needed to take a break. They prescribed Silverdene which really feels so soothing on my skin. Hope my skin will heal quickly and I can get these last three boosts done. I was so looking forward to being done this week. I have a trip planned on 30 June and I so don't want anything to jeopardize that. Cancer… The gift that keeps on giving! okay - my pity party is over for today! Thinking of evryone and hope you are doing better than me. Candy

  • rhgsr
    rhgsr Member Posts: 179

    Candy- I burned horribly during rads (skin turned black, then grey, then slide off). DOMBORO soaks are awesome. The pharmacy usually has to order them but they are over the counter. I would do those before applying lidocaine cream (RX from doc) then the silvadene.

    Holli

  • rhgsr
    rhgsr Member Posts: 179

    P.S. - Don't feel bad about throwing a pity party. We all need one every now and then.

    Holli

  • NY2TXbaby
    NY2TXbaby Member Posts: 113

    Holli - thanks for the tip. I will ask about it. I will try anything at this point.

  • vbishop
    vbishop Member Posts: 332

    Ladies -

    Here is a video Zelda sent me.  She is front and center at about 3:40.  She is hard to recognize.  Long black skirt, red corset, gold chiffon wrap.  She looks bored with it all but she said she had fun.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPCQ47LG6NY

  • vbishop
    vbishop Member Posts: 332

    Candy -

    Sad!!  So sorry you are having to deal with this....so close to finishing!  Rant away...and take care of yourself.  Dislike!  Dislike!!  Healing prayers sent your way!

  • rhgsr
    rhgsr Member Posts: 179

    Here is a great article I found. Thought I'd share in case it happens to resonate with any of you.

    Love you girls!! I'm gearing up did 4 doctor appt this week. Wish me luck.

    Holli

    http://cancerquickfacts.org/index.php/2015/06/08/what-no-one-tells-you-about-surviving-cancer/

  • keepthefaith
    keepthefaith Member Posts: 856

    Hi ladies~

    Thinking of you.

    Candy, I hope you are doing better!

    Mary Kay, how did your Dr appt go?

    Cindy, are you out there?

    JB, hang in there.

    FYI, BCRC is having a presentation at Seton on 38th June 23rd 6:30-8:30 regarding clinical trials in Austin.

    My oldest GS on Henrietta the Hippo in DT Hutto. He still LOVES to go see the Hippo.

    Have an awesome week-end!image

  • MKS1956
    MKS1956 Member Posts: 11

    Everyone has got a lot going on to say the least.

    JB - is true many are paralyzed or act strangely when faced with cancer in another. It may not help much to know but it usually has to do with their own fears. There are some people who a great for the good times, some people who are great for the bad times and it's a rare thing to find people who stick with you through good and bad. Support groups, the people you meet and the information you get, have been a source of inspiration to me. I hope that you'll be able to take advantage of a support group and get some comfort.

    Candy - I have thought of you so often! I sure hope you are able to get some relief so you can finish your boosts. I can't imagine how anxious you must be to be done. You are one awesome lady!

    Terri - thanks for asking about me and remembering my appointment. Very cute hippo picture. I am going to that BCRC presentationon the 23rd, sounds interesting.

    And everyone thanks for the congrats on the OncotypeDX outcome.

    Appt in Houston yesterday - I decided to stick with lumpectomy + rads. Surgeon answered all of my questions fully and I am finally able to set aside the mastectomy question. Got my radiation plan recommendation also. And met with the MO. That 0 oncotype score: it was on the wrong tumor. And I am the one who detected the error... it was my specimen alright but just from the wrong surgery. The MO and her nurse threw the pathologist under the bus for this error but they assured me they would 'make it right'. Now more waiting. I have been kind of snakebit on this deal - failed first attempt, wrong specimen second attempt, so third attempt has got to be the charm, eh? I am going ahead and getting ready for radiation while I wait. I am going to assume this one will be low also and regroup if that is not the case. Surprisingly, I am not totally freaking out. I think I have used up all my worry cycles :)

    Love to All --Mary Kay

  • NY2TXbaby
    NY2TXbaby Member Posts: 113

    Hello ladies. Thinking of everyone. Thanks for asking about me Mary Kay and Terry. Mary K – I am so glad you have a plan of action in place. I know that once I made my decisions everything from there is so much easier. hoping and praying the next oncotype score also will be low.

    I met with my radiation oncologist on Thursday and she said she doesn't think I need to finish the last three boosts. My skin is so raw she felt that I had gotten enough dosage with my 27 treatments. She didn't feel the risk would be very great my not doing the final three since they used a bolus the whole time. I am trusting that she is right. Now all I can do is stay home and slather on the Silverdene cream. He said it would take up to about two weeks for my skin to really heal. My abscess is also doing so much better-which is such a relief.. It to will take several weeks to heal but I should be able to go on my trip on 30 June. I must say it was very anti-climatic the way I finished my treatments. One day you're going to the hospital every day and the next they say you were done. I know I should feel happy but I really didn't have any reaction. I am glad it is all over, but I

  • vbishop
    vbishop Member Posts: 332

    Hi Ladies -

    First, some Zelda news. Here are the pics from Art Bra:

    image

    Doesn't she look great! She created this one. I think it sold for $75.

    image

    This is another Zelda creation. This one sold for $50.

    image

    The final submission...and the big winner of the three. Sold for over $600. You go girl!!

  • vbishop
    vbishop Member Posts: 332

    Hi ladies!

    Checking in...

    Candy - Whoop on no more rads! Now on to maintenance. What a relief! Happy healing for vacation!

    MK - Third time is a charm. So happy to "hear" the calm. It can take a bit to get there, so I am happy that you've made it to that place. Congrats on a decision made. Rats on waiting for the correct oncotype score, but sending positive vibes your way that the score remains low.

    JB - How are you doing?

    Holli - How did the doctor appointments go? Healing prayers your way.

    Cindy - Hope you and the pup are continuing to have fun!

    Terri - I saw the note about the cancer trials session from BCRC on Facebook. I was thinking of going as well. Since I work downtown, I will probably just go there straight from the office. Maybe we can hook up for a snack or something before the session. PS - Grandson is too cute!!

    Jen - How was the concert? Still rockin'?

    Have a great weekend, all!

  • rmlulu
    rmlulu Member Posts: 1,501

    Hi Y'all!

    JB - Welcome! Glad you found us...these ladies are amazing. Please ask and accept help. Breathe, and write your family and friends notes letting them know just how they may help you. Each one has their gift to bless you, but you must let them know. Be very specific and remember you will in time play it forward...sending good thoughts and prayers.

    Candy - yippee 😃 you did it! Done and now time to heal...body&spirit. Take your time...pool party sleep over sounds fun.

    Vic - thanks for sharing the pics of Zelda at Bra Art! Go Zelda:)))

    Jen - still rockin the stones...pics please!

    MK - yikes on wrong score...what! Glad you are in a zen mode...calm:). Yeah, on a plan moving forward.

    Holli - prayers for your 4 appointments.

    Linda - what's new?

    Chaos&Kelsey - how are you doing? Hope all is good.

    Terri - luv the GS&Hippo! Report back on BCRC trials.

    Sorry if I missed anyone!

    I'm adjusting to new normal, Hunter is doing good bow wow. Next week is busy with a line dance social Saturday:). Off to CA wk of 6/22 for BC team appointments...mammogram 6/23. Fly back 6/26 so it's a quick check it and out of there. Will sneak in a bday party and Family time.

    (((Hugs)))

    Cind

  • keepthefaith
    keepthefaith Member Posts: 856

    Hi ladies,

    I hope everyone is doing well!

    Mary Kay, I hate to hear that you are put "on hold" once again. I can't say I would be as patient as you seem to be! I hope your onco score comes back on the low end!

    Candy, I hope you are healed up before your vacation. Don't forget to send us some pics!

    Cindy, good to hear from you. I hope your Dr appts in Cal go well! Enjoy your time away!

    Vicki, thanks for posting Zelda's pics. Way to go Zelda!!! Not sure if I am going the 23rd, but will post later.

    Holli, Chaos, Kelsey, Linda, jlow, JB, I hope you all are doing well! Touch base when you can.

    Follow up with MO tomorrow....20 months from SX date.

    I read on another thread that aspirin is supposed to be a preventative for mestasis/recurrence....? Interesting. Will ask MO tomorrrow. Being on Tam, so I'm sure it wouldn't hurt to take one anyway...

    Have a great week, ladies!!!

    ((HUGS))

    Terri





  • jwoo
    jwoo Member Posts: 931

    Just popping in before i fall asleep

    Terri- this article is what I saw: http://www.ibtimes.com/study-says-aspirin-may-help...


    i will be so mad is a friggin aspirin a day could have kept the BC away....

  • dsgirl
    dsgirl Member Posts: 193

    Hello Jwoo

    Don't fret over the aspirin regime, my cardio doc. started me on 325mg aspirin daily in 2004, due to a coronary stent implant. I still got breast cancer in 2009. I think it's a crap shoot who gets b/c and who does not. The human body is so complicated, and we are all put together differently.

    Sincerely

    dsgirl

  • keepthefaith
    keepthefaith Member Posts: 856

    MO appt went well:). next appt in 6 months...my Blood counts are finally all "normal"!! yay!

    I read a few things that suggested that taking aspirin prior to BC does not seem to be a preventative to BC, as much as a preventative to recurrence or mets after having been DX'd. I hope researchers are able to find out more. I'm sure there are variables in effectiveness, as in all TX's, but if there is a chance that it will prevent recurrence or mets and it's not going to effect my health in a negative way, why not take it? And, it is supposed to help prevent heart attack, strokes...MO agreed.

    Just curious...anyone have their shingles vaccine yet? I know most of us aren't 60+, but wondering how you did, if you had it.

    Stay dry ladies!!!

    ((HUGS))



  • rmlulu
    rmlulu Member Posts: 1,501

    Terri - Congrats! Shingle shot...yes, I had mine before 60. Hubby had the worst case our pop had ever seen :((( so I begged and they gave me shot for free. After seeing how bad and how the pain never went away..Lori g on the shot..lim an advocate...no one wants to suffer with shingles...no one

  • NY2TXbaby
    NY2TXbaby Member Posts: 113

    Terri- congrats on the good MO appt and blood work. Also nice to hear good news. Thanks for sharing the photos Vicki. Hope everyone else is doing well. Thinking of you Mary Kay - Hope you are doing well. Cindy - Hope your appts go well - safe travels there and back. And thinking of all my other cen TX warriors! Went back to work yesterday. It was a challenge finding a top that was comfortable to wear since my office does not have a "clothing optional" policy. LOL it was nice getting out of house - but sure was tired by the end of the day. Skin is mostly pink now with a few angry spots that are still very red - but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Started my Arimedex Sunday and hoping for no SE. Wishing everyone a great week. Candy

  • keepthefaith
    keepthefaith Member Posts: 856

    Thanks Cindy, Candy! I got my shingles shot out of the way today!

    Candy, be patient; you'll get there. Sometimes the fatigue can be hard to overcome. My MO told me it takes about as long to recover as you were in TX. I hope your Arimidex is easy on you.

    Mary Kay, any news yet?

    Vicki, I'm going to try to make the clinical trial seminar. It starts at 6:30. PM me if you want. Anybody else going? Need a ride?

    I wanted to share this link in case anyone wants to do the RR/Hutto RFL this Fall. Vicki mentioned forming our own little team! Great idea. The event is in RR close to DT this yr.

    http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFL... I hope the link works! Anyway, you can sign up before July 2nd and they will ship a shirt to your door! Oh and it looks like it's not an all-nighter-just 4-10pm

    ((HUGS))


  • MKS1956
    MKS1956 Member Posts: 11

    I will know whether or not there was enough to resubmit this Friday

    Terri I am only patient because I really don't have another choice. It makes me furious these people are literally playing with my life. And unbelievable that I have had so many process hiccups in such a short time span. But indulging that feeling only makes things worse for me. Instead I spend my time escalating all these process snafus I have experienced and double checking that all the doctors and labs are doing what they said they would do

    That said waiting will end soon. July 8 is eight weeks since last surgery so treatment will start by then. It's just that I'd like to make the decision with the proper data instead of 1990 style of throwing the full boat of things at my body and hoping some of it works.

    Hope you are all doing well and enjoying life. I look forward to seeing everyone again at the next get-together when and where ever that may be!

    Toodles!

  • jwoo
    jwoo Member Posts: 931

    Not sure if anyone is up for it, or if you might be in the area on Sunday. Going to head up to Dallas to go to the King Spa on Sunday. I know it is Father's day, but mine is far away, and a friend and I got Groupons that are about to expire! I have another friend that cannot go, and has a couple of Groupons if anyone is interested. Just let me know!

  • NY2TXbaby
    NY2TXbaby Member Posts: 113

    jen - what a wonderfully nice offer.....wish i could go, but am still healing. I went to the spa in canyon oaks (Waco) a few weeks ago and had a facial. It was so relaxing and felt wonderful. Glad I went before my skin blew up! Have fun. Candy 💕

  • rmlulu
    rmlulu Member Posts: 1,501

    Jen - hope you had fun at the concert!

    Candy - speedy healing!

    Mary Kay- fingers&toes crossed results come soon! Ugh waiting

    Sending hugs to y'all

    Getting ready to head out to CA this afternoon. Mammogram at 8 tomorrow and results Thursday with BC team appointments that morning. Hoping my MO doesn't get too upset about not returning in July for Zometa...gotta get him back on the same schedule. Fingers&toes crossed for good reports...please:)))

    Today is my bday so decided I would shake things up and do it different this year...so up up I go..and then time with family in CA! It will be 111 when I arrive ugh so into the pool for me and off to my dads at the beach. Pup is t Zoots:)

    (((Hugs)))

    Cind

  • keepthefaith
    keepthefaith Member Posts: 856

    Jen', I hope you had fun at the spa. Thanks for asking everyone to go!

    Candy, hope you're feeling better by now.

    Cindy, Happy Birthday!! Safe travels. Send some pics. I am praying that all of your tests go well and you have a boring Dr visitSmile

    Mary Kay, any word yet?

    BCRC is starting an "After Breast Cancer" (ABC) 6 week class starting July 8th in the evening. It is open to all BC patients who have completed TX within the last 2 yrs.

    How is everyone else doing?

    Vicki, Holli, jlow, Kelsey, Chaos, Linda....I'm sure I have forgotten someone... Check in with us once in a while:)

    ((HUGS))


  • rmlulu
    rmlulu Member Posts: 1,501

    Hi Y'all!

    Well a trip to remember...flight ok, but got home late evening and decided to have some peanut butter and crackers..oh so wrong. An hour later so sick. Food poisoning. I've never been so sick. Kept passing out called a friend to help and she arrived to find me passed out wedged between the toilet and wall choking on vomit. She said I would not have been able to get myself out the way my head was down on the floor. Thank God she came to save me. When she got me awake the paramedics were at the front door...so she got my pants up and dragged me to the bed before I had a bedroom full of men. Food poisoning and severe dehydration ugh. So my bday was spent in the air&ER. Dr wanted to keep me for observation, but I knew I would not get out in time for my 8am mammogram and that was the main reason for my travel. So home at 4 for a nap and then off to mammogram. Mammogram was good :))) had a massage and then cautiously drove to me dads at the beach. DS, GS, DIL arrived for a party :))). Son told dad about ER excitement so all eyes watched me. I admit I was hesitant to eat. Saw my BC team on Thursday and flew home early Friday. Whew, 1st bday and appointments without hubby, but oh not the way to do it. Not eating peanut butter for a while.

    Hope y'all are doing well!

    (Hugs)

    Cindy

  • keepthefaith
    keepthefaith Member Posts: 856

    Cindy, sooo sorry to hear about your mis-fortune! I'm glad you are better. Food poisoning can be hard to get over. Glad your mammo was good!!Smile

    My brother is here for a visit, from Wisconsin. He's such a great guy and a real inspiration to a lot of people.

    We are blessed by so many people that really make a difference in our lives....and you all are some of them:)

    Going to GS's 3rd birthday party this afternoon....he wants a "Christmas" birthday party! So funny:)

    ((HUGS))