Starting Chemo September 2015; join us!
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CONGRATS TESSU!!!0 -
Shopgal, what a wonderful trip to take! Gorgeous photos and you look great!
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The dermatologist finally called about the lump on my toe: based on imaging results, he's calling it just tissue damage from chemo, and does not need a biopsy
So relieved!Braved a blizzard yesterday to attend the first of five exercise classes the national cancer society is sponsoring for our local breast cancer support group
Rough (because I haven't done squat lately except walk) but fun Waking up to clear blue sunny skies and fluffy white snow all over brought tears of joy --- last winter I wasn't sure I'd make it to first snow ever again. Almost afraid to say this aloud, but: Life is good right now, and I am so very grateful <
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So quiet here! Hoping that means no problems, no crises, just wonderfully boring life-as-usual <
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I think no news is good news. ☺☺☺
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Good news for the toe, tessu! No need here except that I am itchy and have a weird rash which may or may not be from the Afinitor.
Random question - how has cancer changed your close relationships?
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Hey my September sisters! Hope everyone is doing well. So glad to hear everyone is trying to move forward. I got great news yesterday. My MRI looked good, and my MO is contacting my surgeon to schedule my port removal! I was over the moon when he asked me if I wanted it removed. It was the first time that I felt a little "safe". I figured he wouldn't let me get it out if he had any doubts. Of course I'll probably go back to worrying in a bit, but for now I'm happy. Today is my daughter's 21st birthday and I'm so glad I didn't get bad news. Extra special day of celebrating today! Thank you all for the tremendous kindness and support you have displayed over the past year. You have brought me so much comfort. Love you all!!
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Good news Tessu!
Yes I agree no news is good news!
Awesome Fidget! It will be so nice to have that port out. Have a great time with your daughter @ her 21st birthday!
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Two thumbs up, fidget!
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Yah Fidget on getting the port out. I miss Minnesota, carolina Amie and many others. If you gals ever read this thread. Please post and let us know how you are doing.
I really appreciate when everyone checks in. I love hearing about what everyone is doing to get their life to a new normal. I wish I could report that I have taken some chances or tried things I used to do but I am still dealing with a lot of after effects of Chemo. I am going back to the gym but I can't use my left wrist at all and still having CT issues in my right hand probably from who knows what. I will probably have to have surgery in December for my left wrist but I can't go under anaethesia for three months so my right wrist may have to wait.
I had my port taken out by my Plastic surgeon 8 days ago. We also did fat grafting at the same time to perk up my implants a bit and to balance some of the dents and fill in my left upper pole area. That really wasn't my priority but I really wanted him to take my port out because he has a very good hand with stitching things shut and I already have a massive scar next to my port from when it was put in.In any case I was sore for a week and it looked like my entire chest and abdomen were covered with bruises but overall it was worth it. My port scar is a very nice tight seam. Hopefully it will fade over time. I get my stitches out friday and then I can officially feel some closure.
In December I am also going to have some tinting done on my nip reconstruction. Because my PS did used my abdomen tissue it is already tinted somewhat and I don't want it really dark so I am going to try the traditional color correction with micro-pigmentation. I know it will fade over time but really I don't need it to be really dark. I can always have them tatoo'ed in a few years if I feel like it but this is a painless easy procedure and covered by my insurance. She is going to match them to my before pictures so I hope I can be satisfied with the results.
In other news my life is a jumble. I am trying to find a therapist to see about my stress level and I still waver into depression but keep busy and pulling myself through. I wish my hands had not had problems because then I could bike but for now I am walking my dog a lot and will start water aerobics soon.
Cajun: Cancer changed many of my close relationships. My husband is exhausted from the treatments and from my daughter becoming a preteen. He feels like we lost a connection and is struggling to help find it again. I know that relationship needs time and nurturing but I am still trying to get my head up from all that has happened. I don't want to wait until its on life support to give energy to my marriage. my friendships are a bit strained as we find new things to talk about and really because I am not as cheerful and upbeat. I am trying but its gonna take some time. I am Just taking the long view and hope things improve over time.
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Hi Exercise
It is such a long difficult road for all of us. I am too a changed person, you cannot go through this and expect to be the same.
I think the upbeat you will find her way back...you still are having procedures and you are in pain....its not easy to remain positive.
Youve gone back to the gym and going to see a therapist these are both really good things.
Like most homes we had stress before cancer and cancer just added to it, but I will try and live the best life I can.
One day at a time helps me.
Im sorry you're going through this.
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Yesterday evening attended the second of five exercise classes for us local bc patients. Sore again today, but that tells me I've FINALLY done something to start rehabbing myself. Absolutely best part was seeing the women in our group again. This group has gotten so quiet --- of course! We're moving on! --- that I'm welcoming support from other places where I can find it.
I think (hope) that I am finally learning to accept what's happened to me --- the horror of diagnosis, the treatment delays, side effects, lymphedema, nerve pains, and now nail loss --- to the point that cancer is no longer 24/7 dominating my thoughts and overwhelming my feelings. My own explanation for how extremely difficult it's been for me to stop being terrified all the time, and for getting so depressed and panicky and miserable, is that the chemo that was powerful enough to cause nerve damage in my fingertips, partial hearing loss, loud tinnitus in one ear, and cause a wolloping case of chemo brain cognitive difficulties (which thank heavens are gradually but surely resolving) ALSO affected the emotional and logic centers of my brain, and is at least partly why I suffered so much psychological pain. So no more blaming myself, no more guilt over how my misery bothered others. Just gratefulness that most days now I can actually smile again, and laugh, and most of the time have other more pleasant things on my mind than "when will the mets start showing up...."
You women have been an incredible support to me. I honestly feel I would not have gotten through this without you all at my back. I hope I've also been able to give back support to others here. THANK YOU ALL
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Greetings to all! It's nice to read how many you are doing. I am doing well and life is returning to a new normal. My lingering complaints are neuropathy in my feet that I just can't seem to shake. It's a day to day thing-- having sore feet and focusing on comfort in the shoes I wear, like never before. I am also taking Letrizole and I think that adds to the pain in my feet. I am dealing with the daily achey hands and joints, too and trying different ways to combat it. I remain committed to staying on the med, despite some real QOL issues. I find Yoga helps me the most.
I am also taking Prolia for osteopenia. No trouble with that. My MO believes it helps to protect bones from mets as well as strengthen them. I'm all for that.
Lastly, I still have hair issues. My hair came back much thinner than before. I am so glad it's back but it's another thing that is just not the same as before C. I'm still taking biotin and now have added Jerrosil drops, per a dermatologist suggestion. Not noticing any difference so far but it's been only a month.
Overall. I try to be very thankful every day that I am still considered cancer free. I don't dwell in the recurrence possibility, but it is certainly in the shadows. I love my MO and feel very well cared for -- another thing that I appreciate so much.
I do read this site from time to time and pray for each of you who have struggles. I also celebrate those who are getting good news and warrioring on. Love and peace to all the Sept 2016 chemo sisters! We have shared a lot together and I'm thankful for each ofyou. -Shelly
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Cinque THANK YOU
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hiya sisters! I'm exhausted with 3 sick kids and going to bed but I had to pop in and send some LOVE to you all. Big hugs
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Have a Great Thanksgiving everyone!!!
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From our happy family to yours, happy Thanksgiving!
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Cajun - Oh my, what a beautiful family. You are truly blessed. Thanks for sharing.
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what a great happy photo! Thanks for posting, cajun!
Woke up to 6" of snow. We're in the middle of a blizzard that's supposed to last all weekend. Cancelling all my go-out plans and snuggling up with my dog and my counted cross stitch projects
Have a fun weekend, y'all!!!
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Thank you! Just popping in to say hello. I miss snow! I love living in the heat, but snow is so beautiful and soothing. Things are rolling along here. I passed the halfway point in my clinical trial. The panic attacks have gone away, hopefully for good. I still feel stiff and my energy has not rebounded, but I'll take a stiff, sore, tired day over no day any day!
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You have a Beautiful family Cajun!
Everyone have a great week! I'm jelly, I miss snow!
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I just killed my best friend in the whole world. My poor elderly dog had gotten very much worse over the past couple of weeks, nothing could be done. It's been h*ll watching her suffer, but difficult because she also had good moments. Husband is angry at me, thinks we could have kept her going "until Christmas", but when our vet came over (to our home), he told me this was the right, merciful thing t. I still feel absolutely miserable. Trying to focus on how blessed I am that she was able to be with me, by my side 24/7, through the h*ll of surgery and chemo and (lesser h*ll but still no fun bc constant D) Herceptin. Almost 13 years by my side. At least now if the mets come, I won't have to worry who'll take care of her, and I know she'll be there waiting <
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Im so sorry Tessu that is so sad. Never a good time to say goodbye to your best friend.
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Hello Ladies,
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving....I stop by and read everyone's posts weekly. Sounds like everyone is doing pretty good considering what we have gone through. My blood work is gradually getting better, hows everyone elses??? But I am still tired most of the time???? And my joints still ache?? I am also still going to the gym 4 or 5 times a week and still gaining weight??? Wondering how these things are going for you guys.......
I am not complaining, I am just wondering if its normal?
I am so very thankful for everyday that god gives me here with my family and friends!!!
I also want to thank each of you for being here,
Everyone ready for xmas???
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Tessu, I am so, so sorry, Sending hugs! ((((Tessu))))
tkemp, my joints just keep getting worse. Really need to think about a knee replacement...otherwise, all good here.
Octogirl
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Tessu - There really aren't any words for the sadness of losing your beloved friend. I lost my 20 year old cat a few years ago. She was my baby, and I still miss her. I can tell you there is never a right time. If you let them go on longer, they may really be suffering, but it's hard to not second guess the decision.
I'm so glad for those of you getting back into a routine with work and exercise. Unfortunately, I am one of those with serious issues that have kept me from returning to work or any real exercise routine, but I hope to do both soon. My hands, wrists and arms are so damaged from arthritis, neuropathy, and who knows what else. My back has gone out, which makes sitting problematic, and I have difficulty walking, due to a rare condition I acquired a couple years prior to the cancer. I am looking for work now because I have to financially, but I am terrified I won't be able to actually do a job.
Still, I do find opportunities to enjoy life with my family and friends, and I try to be hopeful. Much love to all of you
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Octo- For knee/hip replacement, really should come out to Fremont to Dr. Dearborn or Dr. Sah. Worked for Dr D for 10 years. That's all they do. And you have the center for joint replacement which is like a hotel for pts and has only jt pts in there and the staff has been specifically trained by Dr D and Dr S. I need both knees and that's where I'm going. I used to coordinate sxs for them and we had peeps from around the country, sometimes from other countries come here. As a hospital pt you get discounts at some hotels here. It's night and day. Dr D is one of the pioneers in the least invasive hip and knee replacements and has very high standard and expects perfection from himself and us staff. Here's the site:
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So sorry Tessu
It's always a tough call to make, I wish our babies could give us more insight to what they are feeling. It was the right thing to do. We will always second guess our choices.
One of my dogs has cancer, the vet said not much longer but we got him on some mushroom supplements and an easy digestible diet and it's been almost 5 months since diagnosis. A hard decision will be coming soon. I hope I am brave enough to let him go.
Here's our Dude (13yrs old)
Yes as in "The Dude Abides"
My numbers are still not good but increasing very slowly. I just had a fat grafting surgery (abdominal to breasts) last Friday so my numbers probably took another hit with that.
bruised and sore but bouncing back. wearing a binder that makes me feel like a stuffed sausage.
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Oh Dude looks so sweet! I hope he's still with you for a very long time
I'm gradually coping. I've continued to go out "to walk my doggy" --- tonight "we" surprised the neighborhood rabbit, and saw a rainbow halo around the moon
"We" walk more briskly now, like we used to before my dog's back problems started weakening her back legs and slowing her down. And this evening I unpacked her leash --- feels more natural to carry that in my hand on walks. Yesterday I heard that one of her doggy friends died suddenly only a few hours after she did (but with a long epileptic fit that couldn't be controlled 
). I want to believe they are both playing happily together now in Doggy Heaven.0 -
thank you I hope he makes his birthday in Feb.
awe... that is a good idea to carry the leash on your walks. baby steps.
oh yes they are playing in heaven with endless treats and fire hydrants to "mark". It's sad for the other family that their dog passed on but also a blessing because now she's got a buddy up there.
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