My Husband, My Life, My Love, My Family, My Cancer
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Good evening ladies,
It doesn't work to miss a day on our family thread here.
When we returned home we stayed for one day and then drove to Orlando which is about an hour away. We had this timeshare from many years ago and wanted to sell/trade/exchange it for something more useful. So we were offered a week to meet with a resort in Orlando. After a very long time we were able to exchange our PA location to Orlando which hopefully is more functional for us. We also went to visit my niece and nephew and in-laws. No cancer talk. Phew!
We did see the rocket launch, but only by accident. I've never seen it with my eyes like that. it was amazing.
I will attempt to remember as many as I can because I know what it means to be mentioned on here. Trust me it's the difference between melt downs some times to know that we're all here together.
Micmel I'm happy you're able to have a schedule and visit your dad. That whole relationship has done an about face.
Runor waving at you and being thankful that you have the courage to come on here and be Stage III. Sometimes this is a scary place.
Marianelizabeth I hope your chemo went as well as possible and that it works and doesn't give you too many SE's.
Bella those key chains are beautiful.
Pots I know you'll find a back to chemo vet on here.
Gracie I'm so sorry you caught a cold and have such a bad cough. I mean to make your port hurt is really some deep activity. The grandchildren are carriers of germs for sure. I went out and it sounded like a million people were coughing. I'm glad you canceled your PET. There's no way you would be able to suppress a cough and then you would have drunk that swill for no good reason.
Grannax that was great advice to go to the doctor cancel the PET. Guess you've been through this before.
Sheila Marie 3rd and 4th chemo and you still keep going. It's nice to hear that your daughter got engaged and you guys will be wedding dress shopping. I swear it's meaningful things like this that keep us going.
Bianca waving hello and welcome.
Skitzblitz I only have a morsel of energy sometimes and other times no energy at all. My doctor told me to push past the fatigue and try to force myself to be active. It's truly a major challenge bc sometimes my legs feel weary as soon as I wake up! But once I get out i find motivation. I also quit my job as soon as I got this diagnosis. I'm 61 and I had 13 years from first diagnosis. During that time I worked and went back to school etc. Now I am at a different life stage. I volunteer one day a week but I don't want too much responsibility bc when I can't make it I don't want anyone depending on me.
Minnie waving to you in Spain. We had some cool days in Tampa and I enjoyed sitting outside and eating breakfast with my husband with a sweater on. It's funny some of the snowbirds were swimming in the heated pool!
Muddling I'm sorry about the loss of your dad. I'm mentioning it again because someone mentioned that they still missed their dad after many years. I often think of my dad, who wasn't perfect but he was wonderful to me. A great protector and loyal. He passed in April 2016 two months after my brother died.
Waving hello to Masonsmawmaw. Cute handle.
Lynn NH you'll love the Grand Canyon. You know you can take it easy or do a full blown aerobic work out. I did what my energy level that day allowed. I was in such awe of the sights and the absolute magnificence of the canyon. I think you bask your eyes, heart, and soul in it. I didn't read where the ONC called you back. I'm saddened to hear about your daughters divorce evening. My middle daughter got divorced after 17 years and 5 kids. She seems to have been over it (infidelity crap) and all cried out before she decided that she couldn't do it anymore. She was sad but not crying and stuff, just resolved to end it. My son on the other hand is still reeling from his divorce 12 years ago. Infidelity from his wife with two children of the four in the marriage not being his. After 9 years she told the truth and let the chips fall where they may.
SCwilly the spiral staircase is a nice analogy. Each new round of treatment is our new next normal. And each different treatment is a world of unknown as to the SE's and how we'll fare. I hope all goes well for you and you get good news soon.
50's girl I hope you are doing well and that you're planning some trips soon. It feels so good to get away and walk slowly where I once briskly walked and jogged.
Mae I'm glad you enjoyed the pomegranate refreshments.
Hello Big B I didn't see you on here and didn't know if I missed you and Daniel.
Tanya
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Tanya, I am so impressed I do not know how you did that by responding to each and everyone of us. Did you write each of us down and look what we said? I have never worked out hw to go back and read without losing what I have already written. It looks like you have enough energy certainly to write to all of us.
My chemo went well yesterday and I think due to the dexamethasone I'm still feeling quite good. I saw the pain doctor today and said that earlier in the week I would not have said I was feeling good but I am today. Maybe it is because I feel like I'm really doing something having started the Paclitexel after four cycles of Capecitibine which rendered my feet red purple and peeling in the first cycle. The balls of my feet are still sore after walking a short distance and I stopped that drug almost 6 weeks ago.
I am now in bed and looking forward to a peaceful night.
I hope you all have a good weekend.
Marian
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Ladies I am jealous of how well you remember and mention everyone's name. Please forgive me, that is not my strong suit.
Gracie very glad you got in to see your PCP. Yep that has happened to me, too.
I'm anxiously awaiting the results of my MRI of my liver. It was ordered by my IR. I have heard from his office. It seems that he is waiting to call me when he has reviewed my August PET and has put it all together. What is "it"? My brain won't stop saying that phrase over and over. I can't get to sleep. Unfortunately, I think it is something, I think he is trying to put it all together to tell me what procedure I am a candidate for. Ugh. I don't want anymore procedures.
These words were actually from a text he wrote to me today. He says he will call me tomorrow. PTL I don't have to wait till Monday. I am trying so hard to be Scarlett and think about it tomorrow. Obviously that's not working, it's already tomorrow.
Pray, please. Thank you💞
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Skitz~Hello honey. I had that AC chemo it knocks you on your ass for sure. I am in awe when you say you worked four days to me that is amazing pots. I hope you have fun online shopping like I am lol. Way to easy to be able to just press ok order!!
Parry? Where are you my girl, actually where has every body been. Lost out shopping ?? Lol
Love to all
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Grannax~I am always sending up thoughts for our sisters. I am hoping that it will turn out tombe inflammation or a fatty deposit which the liver can have many. Don't be worried about things you can’t change people tell me. I’m not going to say that to you. Because I get it, it’s virtually impossible. Just please know you’re not alone. We love you sweetheart!
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Marian~ I am glad your chemo went well. One down and on ward we go! I can’t believe that it’s already almost the 10 Th of the month I have much to do. We are scaling back the decorations. That used to be my jam. I loved every second of watching the transformation happen. I put up a village each year with snow and a setting with lights two Christmas trees. I realize, I’m going to have to have some help. Only Problem is.... everyone works and is
Very busy. Always. That’s life I guess. Hugs to you sweet friend.
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Tanya~ Hello beauty. You snuck in there. But I found you! I am thrilled with all of your amazing pics. I smile really Big and show my DH and say “now that is someone living”. Those pictures made me see what an incredible bond you have with your family. The smiles tell the tale we all come here to be apart of and the bond we have together that those things are shared amongst us all.
You ladies and Daniel are dear to me. Leslie of course as well... another fighter and mother and wife ! Mungo hugs all around !!
Gracie~. How are you feeling today my friend ?? Thinking of you!
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Good morning, friends. You're never gonna believe what just happened. My IR just texted me at 8AM on a Saturday morning!
He said I don't want you to be overly alarmed, I just disagree with the radiologist who read your scan and need to talk to him. Then he said it might be better to wait till after my December 27 PET to determine his opinion about all my scans. I am so impressed with being able to have a normal, timely conversation with a doc. Rare.But, oh how relieved I feel. PTL
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Grannax~I like that doctor already! I hope so very much that the option they decide for you knocks the crap out of that busy liver of yours!!! But that's great a doctor actually calling on a Saturday never the less! We need more of those kinds of doctors!!!🌷🌷
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Hey everyone!
Just stopping by to say hi. Y'all are in my thoughts and prayers. Its been a few emotionally hard weeks. Thank you Melissa for starting this thread for everyone and for always being there and congrats on your good results.
xoxo
Daniel
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Marianelizabeth I write it down as I read it bc there’s no going back on here.
I’m happy that you feel better.
Tanya
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Grannax, I too appreciate a doc that cares about the mental part of waiting for results too and am happy you’ve got one 😀
Hi Daniel, I hope the tough weeks turn into a blip with better times ahead.
Busy week for me, consultation for healthy heart program on Wednesday, Brain MRI on Thursday with results Friday. Then, a Sunday morning CT (chest, abdomen, pelvis) with results on Monday. I feel fine, so not really worried but you all know how it goes.
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Tanya, you’re amazing. Thank you for caring about (and understanding) how much it means to see someone give you a shoutout on here.
So, my daughter and I found and bought the wedding dress. And we’ve found the venue. And last night we ordered bridesmaid dresses to see how they look on the different bridesmaids. I’ve gotten quotes on hair for my daughters, the bride and the maid of honor, and we’ve made a decision on the food for reception. Things are moving right along! July will be here before we know it.
I have felt so much better this week. Been out and about, getting things done, feeling human. I’ve probably gained a few pounds back (boo!) as my appetite has returned. However, I think maybe I went down too far on the fentanyl patches. My underarm and chest continue to bother me and my pelvic bone has acted up for the past two days. I swear it’s weather related though. It’s COLD and rainy, so... Anyway, I dread starting the chemo back tomorrow. But I am for real calling onc if I start again with the nausea and vomiting. That was miserable!
Mae - a Sunday CT? Why’s that? All that’s happening next week?
Much love everyone ~xo~
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Daniel~Hello our friend. Good to see you here as always. I am hoping the hard weeks smoothe outand you can enjoy the holiday season with your family , and of course our precious Leslie..sending good thoughts of hugs and love to her !
Mae~ as you know wear big pockets and don't forget my snacks. I am always with you in support and to hear you're not worried makes me smile. You are one strong woman. We will be holding your hand.
Shelia~I know exactly what to mean. Planning that wedding with my daughter was air into my lungs. It gave me meaning and purpose. What fun it sounds like you're having through your posting. I am thrilled to see that. Makes me smile so much. I agree cold weather bugs the heck out of me! Love you all !! Exciting to see someone else enjoying wedding planning!!
Waving hello to Tanya. Hope Florida is warm here it is not so much warm here. No siree! Hugs beautiful lady !
Love to all
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Hi Ladies
I am afraid I am nowhere near as organised as Tanya and commend her for mentioning all of us. I would have to keep scrolling, so please remember I think of everyone going through worrying times, new treatments, pain, discomfort, even bad nail polish Micmel!! I missed reading for a few days, as I was just falling asleep every time I sat down to relax. I think I have finished my online shopping, apart from him indoors, who is very difficult to buy for.
We have had very calm, sunny days here with mist coming off the sea some days. We decided to take our little boat out the other day, and the sea mist rolled in around us and we couldn't see a thing. It was such a weird feeling. We knew we had to head due South to get back, so came back ok, it it was like being in a Stephen King movie.
I have treatment this week, then ct on 28th. At least can put it to the back of my mind till Christmas Day is over. Hoping every thing remains stable, the best news I can have.
You are all,in my prayers. Good night from 🇪🇸 x
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Minnie~ I am right there with you in huge hopes that your are stable as well. Having just gone through the scanning time this month myself. I totally am just coming down from the adrenaline of it all. The waiting just sucks ass. Plain and simple. I hope you sleep well beautiful friend. That really does sound like a stephen king novel. Whom I adore and really enjoy his books! Sleep tight! ~M
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Sheila, I know Sunday sounds odd but there’s no alarm. I go to MD Anderson and they do have some weekend hours, especially around the holidays.
And I am wearing extra deep pockets, snacks included, lol
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thanks Mae~. I need a lot of snacks and room. Too many hot flashes and I'll be bringing a fan with me. A cooler. And some noise makers to annoy the staff.
Hoping that all is a ok!!!! It will be. I am sure !
~M~
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Mae in your pocket is a very hungry slacker.
Minnie that’s cool that you got to go out on the boat for awhile. My father had a boat while we were growing up and we’ve had some scary days at sea.
Sheilamarie you really got a lot accomplished! I’m glad you felt better and home this chemo round has less severe SE’s.
Micmel stay warm. I put a heating pad on my feet at night when it gets a little chilly 50’s. I think the neuropathy makes them feel colder than they actually are. I grew up in NY so about 50 years of winters is enough. I remember hanging clothes on the line and they were grown solid by the time we got back inside. That was a part of our chores as kids.
It’s raining here in sunny FL and I’m one week into Ibrance and starting to overdose on sleep.
Tanya
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Tanya~The first week of ibrance month is always a sleepy time for me too. It's chilly here and I have on my big ass coat! Lol I don't even want to go out ! Brrrr my sweet DH and I are watching the Harry Potter movie series. And we are loving it ! Much love ladies and Daniel!
Tanya you changed your avatar. I love it!! Big big lizard!? Grandchild
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ugh ear infections. Now it's moved to the other ear. I'm kinda glad though because I know it's fluid. And not the dark place my mind could've gone.
Haven't seen Parry or MJH.chicagoan.... Edwards....sandybeaches...Daywalker......Zarovka hasn't been around much either. Hope she's ok.
Runor. Thinking of you my sweet friend. Minnie...Gracie.....pots.....skitz.....Grannax....Mae....Bella..
.....Katyk....Holmes... hope all is well.
Sheilamarie......divine....Daniel....egads....GP...Miss Bianca....footprintsangel.....masonsmaw....Tanya....The Lynne's...Bigbhome...scwilly...Chelle my sweet...Marian....Iwrite....JKL...JFL..muddling.. thinking of you! I'll be in your shoes real soon. Tapping my brain for all the bar stool owners....happy Sunday myFriends. I'm about on tap for a nap! Lynnwood it's definitely too cold for me today ugh
Hugs to all ~M~
IF ive forgotten someone. I'll be back lol
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Mae, sounds like a plan. In along for the snacks too. Move over Micmel!!
Our little group went for lunch today to a place advertising on fb. Showing great reviews. It was terrible, but we struggled through because the lady was so pleasant even though she knew she was serving rubbish food. Anyone else ever experienced this? It was like Monty Python. One off the list. We do have a Christmas Lunch on Friday, I organised dinner, music, and mad dancing crazy people (that's us) for the last few years and it always fun. Small group of 36, in a better venue than today. Get the sparkle ready!!
Love to all , my thoughts are with you all x
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Minnie~Hello beauty! You are always doing something. I love it. You just made me flash back to my daughters wedding. Now that I'm looking back at it. I don't know how I even danced the way I did. I felt it after for a week. But it was so much fun. I hope the sparkle makes you smile and you have a blast.
Don't like the rubbish food thing. I really hope it wasn't expensive. Some of the face book things tend to betrendy for a short time then disappears. Now I'm hungry though. The mention of food. Now I want a cheeseburger! Lol
Hugs to all!
~M~
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Hi everyone! Cold day with about fourteen inches of snow here. I didn't accomplish a thing other
than watching out the window!
Question: doc suggested gabapentin (sp?). Is it addictive? I sure don't want that! Is it good for pain, in my case hand pain that comes from an evil combo of neuropathy, letrozole, long standing arthritis, and other things. Pain and numbness and pain and loss of most function and pain. What SE's does it have because I don't need any more of those! Well, if it helped me sleep that would be okay if it didn't leave a hangover.
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Muddling ~I have no business talking about it being cold here. When you're dealing with all that snow! Holy crap! Wow. Hope you have all you need for the next day!
I am allergic to gabepentin (sp?)But I have known many many ladies who take it daily for neuropathy and issues. It seems to work really well for most people and have read it can Also calm you down. I am very sensitive to medicines. It could very well be addictive. I know that I take Effexor and have been told that is wicked. I have tried to come off of all non essential medicines. And we have realized I needed to Titrate down mgs to even be able to stay in my own skin. It was horrible. But doing it one at a time was the answer.
I now use medical marijuana and vaping and it's so helpful. I can't even speak enough about it. I used to take four 5 mg Percocets a day and one 10mg at nighttime. Now I only take one 5mg in the am and one ten mg for nighttime. I am fully off of the small dose of methadone since ibrance has been kicking ass. I lowered my doseage of Effexor from 150 mgs to 75mg and it's doing great so any medicine we are forced to take after a longer time period, we don't become addicted. We become dependent! And we don't even realize it. But it is a good medicine and it does work. I take the amytriptiline for the neuropathy and I can tell you. Coming off of that was a bear. I had to again lower my doseage. Slowly. It's a crap game we are forced to play. We need the meds yes we do. So we are forced to take them. I know what they thought when I asked to come off of all non essential meds. But they can think whatever they want. It's our bodies. And our lives!! Hugs to you ~M~
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We were watching Harry Potter this weekend and we wanted to see what these looked like on our Deeohgee lol. He's such a. Good sport. Although he was being bribed for the photo. He's always at the end of my bed. And currently is right now as I type this. He is mamas baby for sure. The only problem I have is he is a large dog and takes up a lot of room. He doesn't even care. He will mold around my body like play dough. Not to mention he feels like he's like 99 to 100 degrees warm every single second. Brings me heat flashes.... more often than ordinarily.. but they are funny dogs for sure ! Have a good night!! Harry Potter was awesome ! I recommend them highly. Adorable kids and friendships And loyalty is a great part of it. Need more people like that! In our world! ~M~
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Hello sweet Micmel,
Your photo is so cute, funny, and loving! Your dog looks so intelligent and soulful! I know what you mean about getting toasty. Lols My little dog always sleeps under the covers, pressed up against me, even in the summer. He's relentless about it!
Hugs and prayers
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Miss Bianca~Hello there. I was getting ready for bed. Finally. If I don't keep a list of things I need to do for christmas, I'll forget. I have a lot to do and it's stressing me out. The wait for the check isn't fun. Lol. I am going to start wrapping Tomorrow mid morning. Want to take it easy just in case we go to see my Father tuesday... I know he's been asking when we are coming again. I just wish things were easier and I didn't feel so much fatigue all the time from ibrance. But I'm in no way complaining. I wish we could all be free of our dreaded side effects! Ick! My puppies are each on their beds and one is snoring. Which may likely be me soon. Im up later than I'd like. DH had to go back down to work for the week... so I am on dog feeding detail around 7:00 am ish. But that's ok I need to get some thing done every a.m. day or I'll never get anything done.
Everyone sleep well. ~M~. Always good to see you!
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MuddlingThrough, I have considered gabapentin in the past for treatment-related joint pain and before that severe hot flashes. I never ended up taking it because I found something that seemed to have less side effects. I recall gabapentin can cause weight gain, which is not usually a welcome side effect. I had success for Aromasin/Faslodex-related joint pain with Cymbalta. It helped with my bone pain too which was a nice bonus.
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Muddling, I tried Gabapentin along with others to try to decrease my neuropathic pain and none of them had any noticeable effect. I don't think it works for a very high percentage but clearly it does work for some. I would not say is addictive but like all these drugs once you're on them and usually you start gradually, it is the same coming off them, gradual. All of them cause some drowsiness, dizziness in what I call wobblyness. Not sure how bad your neuropathic pain is? Mine is terrible so in the end I am on methadone which does work for neuropathic pain. I have been prescribed medical marijuana for the pain and in an oil form. It has to be 50-50 to help for neuropathy and I don't like the effects of anxiety for me. I am trying to a very low dose nevertheless.
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