My Husband, My Life, My Love, My Family, My Cancer

186878991921229

Comments

  • Grannax2
    Grannax2 Member Posts: 2,387

    micmel. What threads were Auroras favorite? I remember her but I can't remember where she was from. I'd like to go back and read some of her posts. I'm very sad to hear of her passing.😢

  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    Grannax~ I know she would love your caddy! She was on ibrance frequently and that is where the initial announcement was made from Lynne. Her sister told her this morning of her passing. She was just like us. Fighting every step of the way.

    If you go to menu and choose search member and type her name in the search member it will take to you to the the most recent postings she has made. I am very saddened. It's just not fair. I hate it. Bless her beautiful angel soul! We will keep loving... her as an angel now. Much love ~M~ The problem is knowing the annex after her name. I tried to locate it. It didn’t come up. Lynne would know for sure. She’s been talking to her sister. She was a strong woman. It’s just sad. So so sad!

  • 50sgirl
    50sgirl Member Posts: 2,071

    Grannax, I first got to know Aurora on the Bone Mets Thread when I joined the discussion boards when I was first diagnosed. She was a frequent contributor there and was understanding and supportive. She was concerned about others. She also contributed to other boards including: Thread for Middle Aged and Older Christian Women, where she was a frequent poster, How Are People With Liver Mets Doing, Abraxane, and others. Her screen name was Auroaya, if you want to do a search. She became a friend to me, and I have lost way too many good friends here during the past year or so. I have been very sad since I received the message from Aurora's daughter yesterday. I thought she had more time, but it is a blessing that she did not suffer too long.I know that Aurora would want us all to continue to enjoy every moment of life. She often told me to float along on the river of denial as long as possible.

    Hugs and prayers from, Lynne

  • tanya_djamila
    tanya_djamila Member Posts: 1,541

    Micmel I didn't read through all the posts yet but I saw yours first so I'm responding. Sometimes I get lost in the sea of responses and miss people. I've been going to physical therapy now for five weeks or so and I'm starting to finally feel a little strength and muscles in my legs and core. I'm still fat though lol. I have been taking a walk twice a week after or before physical therapy. The alligators are in a lake and I'm walking on a raised boardwalk. I don't feed or mess with them in anyway. I just take a picture and enjoy the wildlife. I did see an osprey nesting and I've never seen one in the wild. I think they're endangered. They are majestic creatures.

    My husband has a buzz in his step now. I can tell he's happy that he's retiring.

    I get scans next week. Trying not to think about it. Whatever happens I am enjoying this 100mg change. I cannot believe the difference it made. If it does the same job then I am very pleased.

    Someone posted on the Ibrance thread that there have been studies done that suggest that 75 and 100 mg do the same thing as 125. Of course who wants to find out that 125 worked and 75 didn't. Too high a price to pay. The study suggested that even 25 mg works!!! I wish they'd find a cure and put a move on it with the research. Imagine the QOL on 25?

    I had no idea that linen rentals would be that costly. Unbelievable ugh! That's something you take for granted. No wonder people use dollar store plastic table cloths lol.

    Tanya

  • tanya_djamila
    tanya_djamila Member Posts: 1,541

    The new Florida school shooting is emotionally exhausting. I am guilty of being a silent majority and allowing all this political posturing to not make me attend not one anti gun demonstration. I intend to support the women's march or any march if gun control is part of their platform. We should at least start with banning assault rifles. I don't think anyone needs that to defend their home and property. This is not what our fore fathers were talking about with a right to bear arms. This doesn't make sense.

    This did not occur near Tampa but really I don't care what state or city these are all of our children. Part and parcel of our society. Innocent victims.

    My mom was watching TV in NY and she called because I have two grandchildren in high school and she just saw FL. I feel for these families and their entire community. It wasn't my grandchildren this time.

    I'm finished with my rant now.

    Big B I hope your DH gets well soon. I will miss you but I completely understand the priority. Just drop a line when you need to. Take care.

    Grannax your caddy is my smile for the month. So necessary lol.

    Minnie I'm sorry that you're in pain. I dont know what works for pain without so many miserable side effects and sometimes I don't think it really works. I was told that cannabis in FL is not paid for by insurance and I went to one doctor and he wanted a $275. consultation fee. I have to find another way. It's a state by state regulation here because it's not federal yet. So there's still a chance for a rip off.

    MJH I hope you are well today.

    Lynne Man You're a mighty woman. I had taxotere before and it was a strong medication. I think they must have modified it some compared to 14 years ago. I pray it's working that's the most important part of what we go through. We will go through anything, even trials to be here and live our life and leave something for someone else.

    I hate poor service when we go out. I'm going to try a movie tonight and to avoid the food fiasco and movie time I'm going to try cinebistro. I heard the food was OK.

    Mae love your getaways. Thanks for sharing it's like a tonic - for real.

    Micmel the bouquet is perfect. I love the jewelry too.

    Lynne 50's mothers and grandmothers wish for the same things.

    Blueshine great news!!

    Gracie I hope the patches work or ointment or something. I am also going to ask my ONC about paliative meds. He has his expertise in oncology and hematology not pain.

    Take care all

    Tanya

  • Lynnwood1960
    Lynnwood1960 Member Posts: 1,107

    Hi all! Is anyone else having trouble posting? I’ve been having trouble, that’s why when I do post it’s usually short. The words I type go in slowly one letter at a time and sometimes they automatically backspace and I lose everything. I’ve tried from my iPad and phone and still get the same thing. I’ve been trying to answer a pm from my friend here and cannot get the words to stay on the page. Any clue why this happens?? Will try to post again later

  • illimae
    illimae Member Posts: 5,739

    I agree that the shooting was senseless and I will not get into a debate here about politics or personal rights. What I will say, is that the problem is so much deeper that what type of gun you can buy, legally or otherwise.

    Again, just my opinion but I don’t think banning things work, it certainly hasn’t worked for drugs. And focusing on the actual weapon rather than why or how someone got to that place mentally, is a lot like treating side effects without any thought for the disease that lead to them.

    The whole thing is sad, the loss of life, the lack of empathy, all of it.

    On a happier note, a coworker made me a cheesecake for my birthday. I had a piece at lunch and it was awesome. Plus, I got a haircut yesterday, still very short and grows slowly but it was fun to update my Bitmoji, lol.

    image

  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    Lynnwood~ Hi honey yes it happens to me too. I use the plain text editor option that is in blue here next to the submit button. Sometimes the screen even freezes and I have to open a new browser, that's what helps for me. It's so good to see you. I was Getting worried. Hugs hugs hugs ~M~ Always opening a new browser and or re logging in helps me too. So nice to see. You. 🤗

  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    Hi Tanya~ hope you're doing good today. I'm glad you're not at risk for being near those alligators. I wouldn't want any chances. I agree with you about the shootings. But when you care about people that you know livein Florida, it's an automatic worry. No one should have to go through that, or worry about sending your children to school.

    Just yesterday my DSSs school had a Lock down because someone brought a gun to school. This kid was a senior in high school, it wasmy DSs school, so the fear is real and this just happened yesterday. We were in terrible panick not knowing if it had even been fired and or what's classes or people were even effected. Our DS is a junior, but does have advanced classes with seniors. We were terrified and just wanted to see his Face. It's beyond terror any parent should ever feel. They got him and no one was shot. But it was a terrifying few hours. So I know first hand how terrifying it was. My DH tried to shield me from the real worry I know and didn't tell me for hours after it was happening. So I just really found out the details. It's all over the news. Just looking at the picture posted about him. Is so real and he looks just like any young man going to school. But this one had a gun in his back pack. So wrong. So dangerous. We don't need AR weapons. They are not needed. Everything is so scary. Who wants to go to a place where many gather in large crowds anymore. You just never know. Unfortunately! Much love to you and I am soooooo glad that your grandchildren weren't any where near any of it!!!! ~M~

  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    imageThis is what I meant. A knife and a gun! 💔😮🤭😞

  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    oh Mae~ That's wonderful darling. I love cheese cake. It's my favorite also. I love the updated emoji. You are beautiful, like I said it looks like you. I am starting to think I will have my long hair back for my daughters wedding. I am thrilled it's already below my shoulders. That's a very big big deal!! Happy happy Birthday to you! 🎂🎂🎂🎂🎂🎂🎂🎂🕯🕯🍩🍩🍩💕💋🐶🦄🦄🌺💫🌈🌈🍧🍡🍭🍦🍪🥃🥂🥤🍾🍹🍽🎀🛍 Much Love ~M~

  • tanya_djamila
    tanya_djamila Member Posts: 1,541

    thank you Mae for being so candid. I have gun owners in my family. They are responsible. I just feel helpless to do nothing and sit idly by while this horror becomes so commonplace that it’s not shocking, just horrible.

    Any suggestions?

    I’m open

    Tanya

  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    fridge took a crap today. Another $500 out the door. Just in time for the wedding. Although the wedding isn’t until September I’m trying to get ahead with things . For realWhen it rains it pours. We thought it was dying earlier This week, but then it was fluctuating temperatures so it's offixally donezo! Geeze. It's raining and mean outside. They are calling For the yearly Presidents' Day snow storm. Sometimes it's even a blizzard. This time six inches. I'll take the final six inches to have winter all gone! Hugs to all! Much love ~M~

  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    Lynne(Manc)~ I took your advice and purchased the linens for the wedding, I still have a few items to rent but overall it saved me like $200. Thanks for the genius suggestion! Hope you're well. Hugs. Thanks again!

    Much love ~M~

  • Lynnwood1960
    Lynnwood1960 Member Posts: 1,107
    Thanks Micmel, trying your tip now. Busy week on this thread. Divine, sorry to hear about your sister and I hope she is coming along. Love hearing about the new cars and the wedding. LOVE the bouquet. Lynne, you are always so helpful to all and love your posts. If I remember correctly ( forgive me if I'm wrong) your scan was stable..great news. Been reading every day but haven't had time to post much and when I did I had trouble. Had a second opinion on my bad foot ( since May) and now need another new brace. This will be the 4th one. Had an onc appointment and got a nice lecture about my weight so I guess I'll have to try to lose a little. Gracie, I hope you are feeling better. Please forgive me if I overlooked anyone, didn't want to scroll back and possibly lose this. My heart Is breaking for the tragedy in Florida, these kids speaking out forhange are amazing. The video taken in the classroom is horrific. I worked in the school system as a nurse and my son and his girlfriend are both teachers and it really hits close to home.
  • GracieM2007
    GracieM2007 Member Posts: 1,255

    Lynnwood, mine does that too! Sometimes it only posts part of my post and the rest is just gone!!! Grrr very frustrating!!

  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    Lynnwood~ Glad to see you darling. Hope the plain text editor helps you. It works for me always. Smoother typing and less skipping! I am sorry you are having issues with your foot. I honestly hope there is a no pain option for you and your brace! I'll be sending good thoughts and strength! So glad you're back! Missed you ! No snow no snow!

    Gracie. Try the plain text editor in blue when you're typing your post. It will be a little easier. When you're in reply mode. Next to the submit button in red. Hope you're ok. Get those salon pas! Hugs my friend

    Love you all ~M~

  • 50sgirl
    50sgirl Member Posts: 2,071

    Lynwood, I have difficulty posting sometimes, too. "Slow" doesn't even begin to describe what I sometimes experience. Frustration is my frequent companion as I type. How did you hurt your foot? I don't remember hearing about it. It must have been painful while you were working since you were probably on your feet so much. My weight is the last thing I want to talk about when I see my onc. Geez, my metabolism has come to a standstill, and I like to blame medication. Sometimes I think I wouldn't lose weight even if I put nothing but water into my body.

    Devine, How is your sister doing? Have they determined what treatment plan she will need? I hope she recovers quickly and without complications. You are both in my thoughts.

    Micmel, My refrigerator died a couple of years ago. I suffered sticker shock when I shopped for a new one. Unfortunately, it's one of those things that you need to replace right away. You are making great progress with the wedding plans. That is wonderful. I was horrified to read about what happened at your DSS's school. That is frightening beyond imagination. I am relieved that no one was hurt, but some if not all of the students must have been terrified, particularly in light of the earlier attack in Florida, still fresh in everyone's mind.

    Mae, The cheesecake sounds delicious. Have a happy two day birthday.

    Tanya, I wish I had suggestions of how to end the senseless violence. The issue seems to be complex with so many pieces that need to be addressed. I think we are overwhelmed by the complexity. It is impossible to find a solution to every part of it all a to once, but something needs to be done. We have to start SOMEWHERE. Many small steps taken can eventually turn into big accomplishments.

    Grannax, Have you been out driving around in that fancy Caddy of yours? I hope so.

    Lynne, As I type this, I hope you are enjoying time away with your DH after your day of treatment. I have been enjoying the warm weather. I heard that we won't get much snow tomorrow night. I hope the weather forecasters are correct.

    It has been a difficult week for me - too much going on in my life and in the world. I am emotionally exhausted.

    Hugs and prayers to all of you from, Lynne


  • illimae
    illimae Member Posts: 5,739

    I have no answer either, only observations of how much more we (mostly my generation and younger) focus on ourselves, what we have, want, etc. instead of considering others as equals. And too many pills pumped into kids. I was prescribed Zoloft for ptsd after my car accident and I can tell you, it was horrible, I stopped after about a week, nothing mattered, nothing had consequences. I don’t need to imagine what that would be like for someone without the extra years of experience and maturity, I’m sure we’ve seen it in a few of the shootings already.

    It’s late for me, goodnight all :)

  • Minnie31
    Minnie31 Member Posts: 494

    Tanya, I have a friend who uses cbd oil for pain and I will consider trying this.

    Gun control is a difficult issue, but surely licensing, Permits, guns stored in proper places where young men cannot easily use without a parent etc? No expert but in Europe gun control is really tightly enforced and it is rare to have shootings like Florida his week. My heart goes out to all the families. We all know how prescious life is.

    X

  • Lynnwood1960
    Lynnwood1960 Member Posts: 1,107
    Lynne, my foot started hurting me last May. At first I chalked it up to being on my feet all day but after a week of intense pain I got it checked out. I have post tibial tenosynovitis, and severe arthritis in my toes and the top of my foot. I never had pain in my toes or the top of my foot, go figure. I was given various braces, ankle supports, wore a boot for 12 weeks, had Prednisone, therapy etc. Really not much better so last week I went for a second opinion. Of course the new doctor says I have not been given the proper race from the other doctor and ordered another. It will be ready in about 2 weeks, Both doctors and even my onc feel that the Letrazole has greatly contributed to this and my onc wants me to try acupuncture. I belong to Unite for her so they will pay for it. If anyone is not familiar, check it out. They provide various services for breast cancer services. Starting Feb 28, I am getting a big box of fresh produce free for 8 weeks through them. Micmel, our refrigerator died in October, what a hit to the budget, we had to charge it and worry about paying it when we can. It's always something. Lynne, I completely understand the emotional exhaustion. I hope things settle down a bit for you. This really is too much , I tell my husband that sometimes I just want the world to stop for a minute so that I can get my footing.
  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    Lynne(50's) We really have a new perspective on something like that. More of a mental health issue, and a perfect storm for One if a weapon is accessible. No one can predict such behavior without a history of sickness mentally. Clearly if someone wants to hurt someone and there are no access to guns. They can use other means. All senseless and a waste of lives often young lives. Not one person could ever solve those things. Life is often really bad for some. I may have cancer, but I am lucky I have the life I have. It makes me cling to it more. Life is fleeting no matter how you look at it.

    I have to get ahead of the planning because I tire easily. This way I can have an inventory and we can get a good handle on what is still needed. They are responsible for things also. I am not paying for everything. I said I would pay for the venue....I gave her my dress...bought the bouquet... purchased all the linens and all the decorations needed.... including the centerpieces. Balloons, streamers,and plates utensils. I can't even think about how many things lol. Also offered to pay for the deposit for the DJ which WOW! Costs $799. That is the best quote I could get. So much. But such a welcome distraction! It's actually so much fun. Hope the snow doesn't happen. Think spring and flowers 🌸, but allergies ugh! Hugs to you friend! ~M~

  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    Mae~ My DH was just prescribed Zoloft and he like ran away from it, said it was horrible and felt awful. Couldn't think straight, foggy, confused and frankly worse than before. It made his anxiety worse. It's a horrible medicine. I can't belive they even made that a legal option for anyone. Although. I realize everyoneis different. I have yet to hear of that medicine helping anyone. I hope you're enjoying your birthday weekend. I hope a lot of special things come your way! Again Happy Birthday! To you! 💓🎈🎁🎊🎉🎂🍩🥂 much love ~M~

  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    Minnie~ Hi there darling! Hope you're enjoying a nice restful sleep. I have just gotten my medical marijuana card and I am going to be learning about many things like that, and others as well. I am taking a tour of a dispensary this week and am hoping to find ways to elimate the opioids that I am forced to take sometimes. There is a lot to learn. I hope the Cbd oil works. Pain isn't anyone's friend. Hugs to you ~M~

  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    Lynnwood~I am sorry that on top of everything else your foot hurts also. I know what that is like, because of my thoracic outlet syndrome.. it's a permanent nerve damage.... extreme pain. In my neck and shoulder down to my hand. This was way before cancer came to dance with me. As I age I seem to be loosing ability to avoid pain. It seems to follow me. I hope the new brace works wonders for you. Let's hope for no snow! I have had enough of cold. Although we really didn't have a major snow storm this year like prior years. Which I am not complaining at all! Have a good weekend. Much love ~M~

  • Grannax2
    Grannax2 Member Posts: 2,387

    50's. Unite for her? I've never heard of it. Is it Nationwide? I live in the Dallas area and live on SS. Do you have a phone number? Or should I just Google? It sound very helpful.

    One of my SE of ibrance is sinus infections. I've had about 5 since I started treatment that required antibiotics to clear up. Now, I take Mucinex every day and it has helped. But, yesterday I started getting one. Ugh. Of course it was too late to call my MO. So, no I have not been cruising around in my Caddy. Boo I did drive it a lot on Tuesday. It's so nice. I even worried about where to park it. Haha. Don't want any scratches on my new, old Caddy!

    I just finished my 12th round of I/F. I had a couple of times that I had to take an extra two weeks off. One of which was in January when I was getting over the flu. For some reason going back on, after a break, the SE are harder on me. Along with sinus infection, I've had extreme fatigue, more painful joint pain, etc. I know from experience when I've been on it a few months that will decrease or I get used to it. It's kinda like t was at the beginning each time I take a break and start up again. Weird. And I have more hair loss too.

    The other SE I suffer with is moodiness/ depression. I know that's from letrozole. I keep a handle on that with Cymbalta. I've taken it for several years, way before my DX and it works like a dream for me. But, when I started on letrozole one year ago, it was quickly evident how much worse I felt. So, my PCP upped my dose. That did the trick, except for when I start back up after a break. All that to say, I've been an emotional basket case this past week. Inexplicably, I think buying the car was emotional for me. It's the first car I've had to buy since my husband died. My budget was so small I had to go to very shady used car dealer to find a car. That was traumatic for me. They are known for cheating people, most of their clientele are people that have very bad credit. Our salesman told us that they double the price of the car and then finance at huge interest rates and then repo. In other words, that's how they make their money, not on cash client like me. He directed us to the only 2 cars out of 200 that were worth buying! I do not like being in places where no one is trustworthy. Thankfully our salesman seemed to be the exception to the rule. At least, I hope so. Otherwise my Caddy may fall apart net week!

    I sure didn't intend to write such a long post. Sometimes words just fall out of my brain onto this thread. 😑

  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    Grannax~I would not feel comfortable about that either. No way! I hope against hope your car will be a good one for you. Sure looks good and I love the style. You deserve a break after all you have been through. I don't think anyone should ever apologize for letting out whatever feelings need to be let out... that's what this thread is here for. It's why I made it. So please remember this is your place too!!! 🤗❣️💓. An MBC Family is just that!! Hope you're up and running soon. Btw what you just mentioned about breaks kinda freaks me out. I have been on a three week break. I start round 16 Sunday. Because of my intense flu. I do NOT want it to feel like I just started again. I can't handle that all over again. I never even thought of that. Oh dear me. This week I have A lot of things to do and two doctors appointments. Good grief. I hope three weeks wasn't long enough to make a big difference. Now I'm worried. Yikes. Have a good Saturday beautiful!! Much love ~M~

  • Lynnwood1960
    Lynnwood1960 Member Posts: 1,107
    Grannax, I googled Unite for her and it appears to be a regional thing to Chester and Delaware county in Pa. I'm sorry if I gave misinformation, I thought it was a national thing. My oncology office had a wellness day with Unite for her. We were treated to breakfast and a chef cooked us a healthy lunch. We got t shirts and a huge box of fresh produce when we left. They give you 12 " squares" to use for free services, but for stage 4, they automatically give you more squares. You can get reiki, massage, acupuncture, free Y membership, fresh produce, nutritional counseling where they will go shopping with you and cook for you in your home. I'm going to use my squares for the produce and acupuncture. It's really quite an organization.
  • Grannax2
    Grannax2 Member Posts: 2,387

    Lynnwood I'm sure there is something similar in the Dallas area, I'll do some checking. I'm glad you have access to it. I would go for the free produce for sure. 🍇🍓🍎🍏🍍

  • micmel
    micmel Member Posts: 10,057

    Lynnwood~ I wonder how far that extends in the PA area? I am going to take a look, thank you for the suggestion and information, every little bit helps huh? I was offered 5 restorative yoga sessions that I just may try out. I need something to make me relax. My anxiety hasn't been really all that great lately. With everything we have to deal with and going on. I wonder if it will ever return to pre non cancer anxiousness. Sigh. And on we go...... much love ~M~

    Waving hi to Grannax~

    Mae~ Happy happy birthday

    MJH~ hope you're enjoying your weekend.

    Leapfrog~. You ok darling ?

    Keetmom~ hugs and hello to the girls. Hope you're ok and your father also.

    Chelle ~ miss you always

    Nan~ same with you always my friend.

    The Lynne's~. Keep warm!!!

    Blueshine ~🌸🌸🌸 hope you're well!

    Minnie~ Hi darling

    Gracie~ hope you're hanging in there with the ibrance!

    Tanya~ Hi darling. Hope the grandkids are keeping you busy!

    Anyone I missed. Hugs to you all as well

    Runor~ you crack me up! Keep being who you are!

    Bigbhome~Saving your seat, that only you can fill. We love you. Thoughts to you and DH. Everyday! Also MIL

    Finally watching some of the olympics. Before cancer I wouldn't have missed a day of it. I am always so out of it. I missed a good 7 Days. I usually know everyone on the us team, I'm disappointed in who I have become. I have lost my sharpness, my physical stamina, my beauty, my strength, my security, all I am left with is worry and fear in three to six month intervals. It certainly is NO way to live. Fear becomes part of the air you breathe. Some days are ok but others. I feel so let down and so sad. Sometimes I can't shake it.

    You all help so much. Thank you for being here with me! It means everything! Much love ~M~