OK, I got the test results back from my BRCA1 and BRCA2 and I do NOT carry the mutated genes, therefore...well....I don't have them. I guess the only good thing about knowing whether or not if you have the mutated genes are you can take special precautions to lessen the chances of breast cancer coming back or other cancers forming that are linked with the BRCA1 & 2, specifically ovarian cancer. The bad thing, in my opinion is that it didn't give me the answer as to why I got breast cancer in the first place. Only a positive result for mutated genes would give me an answer and I guess that not knowing is better than having the genes, right!?!
Smokie - well took him to the vet today, she (the vet) was super nice to me, answered all my questions and talked about that Smokie is in the early stages of kidney failure. He did have a UTI, so we're treating that, too. They taught me how to do the Sub-Q treatments for Smokie. AY YI YI! We put him on a new diet, gave him special supplements and our goal right now is to not let him lose any more weight. He weighs 7.6 lbs. which is NOT GOOD, though Smokie has been this little for many years, he was over 12 lbs. or so in his prime back 7-10 years ago. I think I can manage his disease. I only have to do the Sub-Q treatments 1-2 times/week.
In other news, wht the hell has happened to my blog and it's pretty layout? I've exceeded the bandwidth for the LO? What a crock of shit! Off to make a new header and go back to the black LO!
OH and laying in bed, watching rented movies on my iPhone is pretty cool!!
Showing posts with label Breast Cancer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Breast Cancer. Show all posts
Monday, January 26, 2009
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Back to life...back to reality...
Loved En Vogue back in the day...Ahem! Great lyrics in that song, I say!
Awwww geeeee...so I went back to work, back to the grind, back to stress, but back to reality I guess. I'm thankful to work in the job that I do right now because I pretty much have job stability. The chances of my program being cut or closed is very slim. I can see that we may have to live with a little less and endure with the things we have. I'm ok with that and I'm glad to know that my company is a wise spender. I'm thankful that our CEO is careful about how we do business and he and his team have kept the company afloat despite the tough times.
I'm back to school now, too. I started Thursday night and I also have a class this morning before I go to work. I'm taking Legal Writing and Administration of Wills, Estates and Trusts. I still have 2 classes to go before being finished. I had to take a break this semester and go only part-time because 4 classes last semester was tough. I'll be finished by next December, but I'm hopeful that I might be able to get into a law office before then and gain some experience.
Smokie is doing pretty good, by the way. He goes to the vet Monday for his check-up and then I will discuss with the vet about the next steps of his treatment. I have a lot of questions and concerns that I want to talk to her about before proceeding. We'll see what Monday brings...or what Monday doesn't. I'm still on the fence about this veterinarian.
I also have an appt. with my Oncologist Monday morning to find out the results of my genetic BRCA1 and BRCA2 tests that I had done before Christmas. The tests came as a result of my quest to have a tubal ligation, which turned into the possibility of taking my ovaries instead, which then turned into finding a doctor that I liked and that would talk to me about my options and then turned into the genetic tests. What it all means is depending on the test results, I either have a tubal ligation or I have my ovaries removed.
Awwww geeeee...so I went back to work, back to the grind, back to stress, but back to reality I guess. I'm thankful to work in the job that I do right now because I pretty much have job stability. The chances of my program being cut or closed is very slim. I can see that we may have to live with a little less and endure with the things we have. I'm ok with that and I'm glad to know that my company is a wise spender. I'm thankful that our CEO is careful about how we do business and he and his team have kept the company afloat despite the tough times.
I'm back to school now, too. I started Thursday night and I also have a class this morning before I go to work. I'm taking Legal Writing and Administration of Wills, Estates and Trusts. I still have 2 classes to go before being finished. I had to take a break this semester and go only part-time because 4 classes last semester was tough. I'll be finished by next December, but I'm hopeful that I might be able to get into a law office before then and gain some experience.
Smokie is doing pretty good, by the way. He goes to the vet Monday for his check-up and then I will discuss with the vet about the next steps of his treatment. I have a lot of questions and concerns that I want to talk to her about before proceeding. We'll see what Monday brings...or what Monday doesn't. I'm still on the fence about this veterinarian.
I also have an appt. with my Oncologist Monday morning to find out the results of my genetic BRCA1 and BRCA2 tests that I had done before Christmas. The tests came as a result of my quest to have a tubal ligation, which turned into the possibility of taking my ovaries instead, which then turned into finding a doctor that I liked and that would talk to me about my options and then turned into the genetic tests. What it all means is depending on the test results, I either have a tubal ligation or I have my ovaries removed.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Check-ups!
So, I guess before I go into the discussion of check-ups...I should probably share a little bit of my breast cancer history first.
Last year, I turned 35, had my annual GYN appt. and my GYN says I need a mammogram. "Why?" I ask. She says because I am now 35, if I have a baseline mammogram done, then when I turn 40, I have something to compare to. Seems like a good idea, right?
So, I think somewhere last year in the ballpark of June, I had my first mammogram done, a couple days after, I get called back for more films. Then they scheduled a biopsy, which I didn't have until August because I was too busy vacationing New York and The Cape most of July! Anyways, I had the biopsy done, and a couple days later I get a phone call that I have cancer, that I need to come in and have a consultation about what all this means, etc.
It was a shock, I mean...I was 35, no history of BC in my family, no reason to believe I was at risk. But I tell you that most of those things don't necessarily matter. Because it can happen to you, even if you are not at risk and even if you are at risk, it may never happen to you.
I had a 3mm Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in my right breast (somewhere in the middle), Stage 1, Grade II and I'll be honest when I say I don't even remember any much more than that. I needed a lumpectomy first, then we'd talk treatments afterwards.
I had my lumpectomy surgery last August, the cancer had not spread to my Sentinal Node. This was my "get out of chemo free card". My cancer, although aggressive, had not left the breast and traveled to the lymph nodes. I was given clear parameters after surgery and I had choices to either do nothing or at least do Radiation and take Tomoxifen. It took a couple months and a 2nd opinion at MGH to determine the best route was radiation and Tamoxifen.
I did my course of radiation from right after Thanksgiving to mid-January. The holidays are a blur, all I did was moan, groan and sleep. I started Tamoxifen in March of this year and I've been on fire ever since! LOL! I have hot flashes that could warm a small room!
SO ANYWAYS...that was a long winded story. (I used to be able to spit out that story with a time and date stamp and every little detail...these days I (seriously!) suffer from mushy brain and can't remember shit! If you want the super specific details, I encourage you to click on the tag "Breast Cancer" over in the list on the right hand side of my blog and start from the beginning. I've wrote more posts on this subject than any other...apparently I was "Thankful" for about 14 days last year! I'm a crappy tagger, although I don't think I have missed a beat on the BC posts.
Since surgery, I got checked about every 3 months by my surgeon. Since it's been a year now, I get to space those visits out to 6 months.
Since I've finished radiation, I get checked every 6 months by my radiation oncologist.
Since I started Tamoxifen, I see my medical oncologist every 3 months. I see her the most actually.
Since surgery last year in August, I've had 3 MRI's and 2 mammograms spaced out over the course of the last year. All came back clear and free of cancer. I think I get to space the mammograms and MRI's out to a year now!!
I assume, that for other women, it all depends on their history's to determine their check-ups. We're all followed pretty closely for the first year anyways.
(Jules, I hope that answers your question!!!)
Last year, I turned 35, had my annual GYN appt. and my GYN says I need a mammogram. "Why?" I ask. She says because I am now 35, if I have a baseline mammogram done, then when I turn 40, I have something to compare to. Seems like a good idea, right?
So, I think somewhere last year in the ballpark of June, I had my first mammogram done, a couple days after, I get called back for more films. Then they scheduled a biopsy, which I didn't have until August because I was too busy vacationing New York and The Cape most of July! Anyways, I had the biopsy done, and a couple days later I get a phone call that I have cancer, that I need to come in and have a consultation about what all this means, etc.
It was a shock, I mean...I was 35, no history of BC in my family, no reason to believe I was at risk. But I tell you that most of those things don't necessarily matter. Because it can happen to you, even if you are not at risk and even if you are at risk, it may never happen to you.
I had a 3mm Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in my right breast (somewhere in the middle), Stage 1, Grade II and I'll be honest when I say I don't even remember any much more than that. I needed a lumpectomy first, then we'd talk treatments afterwards.
I had my lumpectomy surgery last August, the cancer had not spread to my Sentinal Node. This was my "get out of chemo free card". My cancer, although aggressive, had not left the breast and traveled to the lymph nodes. I was given clear parameters after surgery and I had choices to either do nothing or at least do Radiation and take Tomoxifen. It took a couple months and a 2nd opinion at MGH to determine the best route was radiation and Tamoxifen.
I did my course of radiation from right after Thanksgiving to mid-January. The holidays are a blur, all I did was moan, groan and sleep. I started Tamoxifen in March of this year and I've been on fire ever since! LOL! I have hot flashes that could warm a small room!
SO ANYWAYS...that was a long winded story. (I used to be able to spit out that story with a time and date stamp and every little detail...these days I (seriously!) suffer from mushy brain and can't remember shit! If you want the super specific details, I encourage you to click on the tag "Breast Cancer" over in the list on the right hand side of my blog and start from the beginning. I've wrote more posts on this subject than any other...apparently I was "Thankful" for about 14 days last year! I'm a crappy tagger, although I don't think I have missed a beat on the BC posts.
Since surgery, I got checked about every 3 months by my surgeon. Since it's been a year now, I get to space those visits out to 6 months.
Since I've finished radiation, I get checked every 6 months by my radiation oncologist.
Since I started Tamoxifen, I see my medical oncologist every 3 months. I see her the most actually.
Since surgery last year in August, I've had 3 MRI's and 2 mammograms spaced out over the course of the last year. All came back clear and free of cancer. I think I get to space the mammograms and MRI's out to a year now!!
I assume, that for other women, it all depends on their history's to determine their check-ups. We're all followed pretty closely for the first year anyways.
(Jules, I hope that answers your question!!!)
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Support Systems
When diagnosed with a particular disease, sometimes the news alone is a devastating blow, what about learning about the disease or what options you have in the course of treatment or questions to ask your doctor, who can you talk to, is there anyone out there like me? Is there support out there for me? YES!
Last year, I was invited to attend a support group with others, who like me, were recently diagnosed as well. I walked away from the first group session and vouched I'd never go back, week to week, I'd still say the same thing...but I went back. It wasn't until the final group session, that me and Penny bounced and got the hell outta there! The group was diverse, some young, some older, some with this type and others with another type, some did this treatment and others did another. Week by week, I felt like we were in a Breast Cancer class with a little support thrown into it. It wasn't my bag of beans, but the important part is this...I walked away with 2 breast cancer sisters and today, WE ARE OUR SUPPORT! We made our "support what *WE* wanted it to be!
We agreed that the support group that our Breast Care Center puts on was not our bag of beans, that we probably wouldn't be attending any more "survivor" meetings in the future, rather once every 6-8 weeks or so, we meet on a Sunday for breakfast at our favorite little diner and talk about how we're doing and what's new and how our Dr. appts are going, etc. It's the best 2 hours, in the best company!
Without further ado, check out these beauties! That's Penny on the left and Deb on the right. We lean on each other if we need someone to talk to, we email each other when we're frustrated with something (like breast cancer campaigns!!) or need to blow off steam, but most importantly, we're friends and we support one another not only about our cancer, but life in general.
I highly recommend that if you have been diagnosed (or know someone that has) with Breast Cancer, get into a support group, if the group isn't your thing, see if you can walk out of the group with a friend to have by your side or try other groups in your area.
Last year, I was invited to attend a support group with others, who like me, were recently diagnosed as well. I walked away from the first group session and vouched I'd never go back, week to week, I'd still say the same thing...but I went back. It wasn't until the final group session, that me and Penny bounced and got the hell outta there! The group was diverse, some young, some older, some with this type and others with another type, some did this treatment and others did another. Week by week, I felt like we were in a Breast Cancer class with a little support thrown into it. It wasn't my bag of beans, but the important part is this...I walked away with 2 breast cancer sisters and today, WE ARE OUR SUPPORT! We made our "support what *WE* wanted it to be!
We agreed that the support group that our Breast Care Center puts on was not our bag of beans, that we probably wouldn't be attending any more "survivor" meetings in the future, rather once every 6-8 weeks or so, we meet on a Sunday for breakfast at our favorite little diner and talk about how we're doing and what's new and how our Dr. appts are going, etc. It's the best 2 hours, in the best company!
Without further ado, check out these beauties! That's Penny on the left and Deb on the right. We lean on each other if we need someone to talk to, we email each other when we're frustrated with something (like breast cancer campaigns!!) or need to blow off steam, but most importantly, we're friends and we support one another not only about our cancer, but life in general.
I highly recommend that if you have been diagnosed (or know someone that has) with Breast Cancer, get into a support group, if the group isn't your thing, see if you can walk out of the group with a friend to have by your side or try other groups in your area.
Monday, October 6, 2008
5 things
Five Things To Tell Your Friends About Breast Cancer
1) All women can get breast cancer - even those who have no family history of the disease.
2) The two most important factors for breast cancer are being a woman and growing older.
3) Women diagnosed with early breast cancer, when the cancer is small and has not spread, have a high chance of surviving it. Mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early. Get one every year starting at age 40. If you notice any breast changes, tell your doctor without delay.
4) You can help reduce your chances of developing breast cancer by engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol intake.
5) Through early detection and improved treatments, more women than ever are surviving breast cancer.
2) The two most important factors for breast cancer are being a woman and growing older.
3) Women diagnosed with early breast cancer, when the cancer is small and has not spread, have a high chance of surviving it. Mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early. Get one every year starting at age 40. If you notice any breast changes, tell your doctor without delay.
4) You can help reduce your chances of developing breast cancer by engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol intake.
5) Through early detection and improved treatments, more women than ever are surviving breast cancer.
For more information on breast cancer contact the American Cancer Society or visit cancer.org
Friday, October 3, 2008
A great Breast Cancer link
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, the first thing I was told was to stay away from the internet. Too much info out there for a newly diagnosed person.
Did I listen? Nah. BUT, I found a great place that had great information and not once did I find information that led me astray.
If you want great information about breast cancer, go to breastcancer.org
No, it's not the ONLY place to go, but I felt it to be a place I could turn to when I needed to read and learn. I mean, after you get diagnosed with breast cancer, it's like some weird goal to learn everything you can about the disease that you can.
Did I listen? Nah. BUT, I found a great place that had great information and not once did I find information that led me astray.
If you want great information about breast cancer, go to breastcancer.org
No, it's not the ONLY place to go, but I felt it to be a place I could turn to when I needed to read and learn. I mean, after you get diagnosed with breast cancer, it's like some weird goal to learn everything you can about the disease that you can.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Another way to give back!
The Breast Cancer Site
If you click above, it'll take you to The Breast Cancer Site and when you click on the box, sponsors pay for mammograms. You do not need to register for anything, no giving personal info or emails.
I go here each morning, click and then I head over to the animals section and click to help give food and care!
If you click above, it'll take you to The Breast Cancer Site and when you click on the box, sponsors pay for mammograms. You do not need to register for anything, no giving personal info or emails.
I go here each morning, click and then I head over to the animals section and click to help give food and care!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Happy October!
My favorite month of the year...well almost - November, December, January and February rank up there too!
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Back when I first started hanging out over at The Gitter Girlz, I thought how fun it would be to sponsor a prize in October, a little way of "giving back". So without further ado, I got a few little things together and Gutter Girlz is doing a special Susan G. Komen For The Cure Race to raise money. I urge you to donate if you can. You'll be entered to win my giveaway November 1st.
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Back when I first started hanging out over at The Gitter Girlz, I thought how fun it would be to sponsor a prize in October, a little way of "giving back". So without further ado, I got a few little things together and Gutter Girlz is doing a special Susan G. Komen For The Cure Race to raise money. I urge you to donate if you can. You'll be entered to win my giveaway November 1st.
Monday, September 29, 2008
What do I love most about Fall?
The very question that Cathy Z. asks this morning on her blog (with a chance to win a kick-ass Studio Calico kit!!)
I love Fall because it closes the doors on the heat of summer and bring in a fresh new season. I love crisp cool days and the smell of someone's fireplace burning in the air. The changing of the leaves, our surroundings become a bit red, orange, yellow and brown. Also, I can almost smell Thanksgiving dinner!!
I'm also doing the "A Week In the Life" project this week with Ali Edwards. I had seen parts of this project before when people shared pictures of her CK track in previous years. Not sure that she teaches this album track anymore, but she is walking through the project this week on her blog. Come join us! You don't have to start right away, you can wait until next week or do a Sat-Fri book like I am.
Starting "Now We're Rockin" with Photoshop with Jessica Sprague this month. Honing in on my digital skills to learn more from the best. If you've ever wanted to jump into digital scrapbooking but was afraid to, Jessica Sprague has it going on! Her first class "Up and Running" with Photoshop is self-paced now, so you can sign up anytime. I took that class and loved it! Will share more when I get some new LO's done!
2 days before pink ribbon month. I remember how difficult it was last year dealing with breast cancer and being surrounded by the multiple venues of breast cancer this and breast cancer that. It's all in your face. Last year I was so new to all of it that it freaked me out. This time, being a year out, I think that pink ribbon month might just be ok! I'm going to do something special on my blog for October. Check back daily!! (AND YES, that's a challenge to me to post a little something everyday!) If you or a loved one is a survivor or have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, leave me a comment, tell me who you are and link me to your blog if you have one.
I love Fall because it closes the doors on the heat of summer and bring in a fresh new season. I love crisp cool days and the smell of someone's fireplace burning in the air. The changing of the leaves, our surroundings become a bit red, orange, yellow and brown. Also, I can almost smell Thanksgiving dinner!!
I'm also doing the "A Week In the Life" project this week with Ali Edwards. I had seen parts of this project before when people shared pictures of her CK track in previous years. Not sure that she teaches this album track anymore, but she is walking through the project this week on her blog. Come join us! You don't have to start right away, you can wait until next week or do a Sat-Fri book like I am.
Starting "Now We're Rockin" with Photoshop with Jessica Sprague this month. Honing in on my digital skills to learn more from the best. If you've ever wanted to jump into digital scrapbooking but was afraid to, Jessica Sprague has it going on! Her first class "Up and Running" with Photoshop is self-paced now, so you can sign up anytime. I took that class and loved it! Will share more when I get some new LO's done!
2 days before pink ribbon month. I remember how difficult it was last year dealing with breast cancer and being surrounded by the multiple venues of breast cancer this and breast cancer that. It's all in your face. Last year I was so new to all of it that it freaked me out. This time, being a year out, I think that pink ribbon month might just be ok! I'm going to do something special on my blog for October. Check back daily!! (AND YES, that's a challenge to me to post a little something everyday!) If you or a loved one is a survivor or have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, leave me a comment, tell me who you are and link me to your blog if you have one.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
School...week 1
Yep, I'm back to school, in every sense of the word! Homework, reading, assignments, papers already due...yada yada yada! This ought to be an interesting 3 1/2 months, not to mention tiring.
So, we had the remnants of Hurricane Hannah ride up the East Coast yesterday and last night and our area was spared any major downpours or major wind. I was awake until about 3am and we got our fair share of rain, but it didn't amount to much. The worst was suppose to be 10p-4a. Beautiful day today...although I'm suffering a major sleep hangover today as I am on call and the phone started at 8:00am.
Getting ready for a 3 day work week this week as I am heading down to the Cape on Friday for a wedding. I could care less about the wedding, I'm more interested in the 4 day weekend!
I did another prompt for The Story Matters - Family Tree:
Got my hair colored today, too. Blond is out, light brown is in. It is FALL, AFTER ALL!
OH, and I got the official letter from the Breast Care Center that my mammograms last week did not show any signs of cancer! The next line of business is the decision to have a tubal ligation or taking out my ovaries. More on that later.
So, we had the remnants of Hurricane Hannah ride up the East Coast yesterday and last night and our area was spared any major downpours or major wind. I was awake until about 3am and we got our fair share of rain, but it didn't amount to much. The worst was suppose to be 10p-4a. Beautiful day today...although I'm suffering a major sleep hangover today as I am on call and the phone started at 8:00am.
Getting ready for a 3 day work week this week as I am heading down to the Cape on Friday for a wedding. I could care less about the wedding, I'm more interested in the 4 day weekend!
I did another prompt for The Story Matters - Family Tree:
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| From Scrapbooking |
Got my hair colored today, too. Blond is out, light brown is in. It is FALL, AFTER ALL!
OH, and I got the official letter from the Breast Care Center that my mammograms last week did not show any signs of cancer! The next line of business is the decision to have a tubal ligation or taking out my ovaries. More on that later.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
OUCH! I CRIED!
So, I had my 1 year f/u with my surgeon today since my cancer was removed a hair over a year ago. The visit went great and we talked about things that I'll come back to. My MRI had come back normal (from 3/17/08) but I had not had a mammogram in 10 months. I had the option of doing it today or coming back in a couple weeks. I said let's do it today, not much was going to be different if I waited a couple weeks, right?
OH MY GAWD! Now, I had a mammogram a couple months after my surgery last year and it never hurt this bad (it was uncomfortable...but I was ok!) Today? OUCH! I cried. I headed for the trash can right after she took the first images of my right breast. It's obvious that the effects of radiation are still lingering in there. My left, I wasn't so pitiful.
Eh well, I survived and no other images were needed and I was sent on my merry way with a "see ya in 6 months" goodbye! The nurse said the radiologists said everything looked normal at this time. WHEW!
Now, if you remember that I had that consult with my OB/GYN for my tubal and I decided that I didn't like her...well I talked to my surgeon today who doesn't do this kind of surgery herself, but gave me a couple great recommendations for a couple Dr's that might work out. So I have some calls to make.
In other news...I have a co-worker that is around my age...and she had an appt. to go for a mammogram (not sure why, if it was a baseline or if she had felt something) but I kept asking her about the appt. each month when I'd see her at our monthly meetings, the appt. hadn't come up yet. I saw her recently and asked how it went, and she told me she chickened out and didn't go. She says she is afraid of results (whether good or bad) and I hope that my pep talk and daily emails encourage her to change her mind, I even offered to go with her to an appt. as I understand the importance of these visits.
And in other news...Paul and I frequent a local restaurant and we met this young girl that waited on us quite a few times. Nice girl, about 25 years old. We ask for her every time we go there. The last time we were there, her section was full, and we sat in another servers section, but she came to talk with us and dropped the bomb that she, a 25 yr. old mother of 2, wife to a great husband, has ovarian cancer in one of her ovaries. I felt so bad for her. I didn't get a chance to get all the details, but quickly offered my phone number and email and asked her to call on me anytime. I've only heard from her a couple times in email. In fact, I will call her tomorrow, to see how she is doing.
I'm back in school tomorrow.
OH MY GAWD! Now, I had a mammogram a couple months after my surgery last year and it never hurt this bad (it was uncomfortable...but I was ok!) Today? OUCH! I cried. I headed for the trash can right after she took the first images of my right breast. It's obvious that the effects of radiation are still lingering in there. My left, I wasn't so pitiful.
Eh well, I survived and no other images were needed and I was sent on my merry way with a "see ya in 6 months" goodbye! The nurse said the radiologists said everything looked normal at this time. WHEW!
Now, if you remember that I had that consult with my OB/GYN for my tubal and I decided that I didn't like her...well I talked to my surgeon today who doesn't do this kind of surgery herself, but gave me a couple great recommendations for a couple Dr's that might work out. So I have some calls to make.
In other news...I have a co-worker that is around my age...and she had an appt. to go for a mammogram (not sure why, if it was a baseline or if she had felt something) but I kept asking her about the appt. each month when I'd see her at our monthly meetings, the appt. hadn't come up yet. I saw her recently and asked how it went, and she told me she chickened out and didn't go. She says she is afraid of results (whether good or bad) and I hope that my pep talk and daily emails encourage her to change her mind, I even offered to go with her to an appt. as I understand the importance of these visits.
And in other news...Paul and I frequent a local restaurant and we met this young girl that waited on us quite a few times. Nice girl, about 25 years old. We ask for her every time we go there. The last time we were there, her section was full, and we sat in another servers section, but she came to talk with us and dropped the bomb that she, a 25 yr. old mother of 2, wife to a great husband, has ovarian cancer in one of her ovaries. I felt so bad for her. I didn't get a chance to get all the details, but quickly offered my phone number and email and asked her to call on me anytime. I've only heard from her a couple times in email. In fact, I will call her tomorrow, to see how she is doing.
I'm back in school tomorrow.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
A YEAR AGO TODAY...
Marks the day in which I became cancer free and hope to remain that way for the rest of my life!
Ahhh yes, the milestones of breast cancerness...at least I can talk about it in years rather than months and weeks now, right Penny? 1 year out! I say that and I have a little bit of anxiety about my upcoming appointment this next Tuesday with my surgeon - my 1 year post surgery follow-up. My surgeon looks like Kelly Clarkson, seriously!
At the end of September, I am having a tubal ligation. I want this. I don't want children. Thing is, the OBGYN Dr. ( I personally see a Nurse Practitioner, who works under this Dr.) is such a BITCH! I've never been made to feel so incompetent to make a decision until I met her, she made me feel as if I don't have the right to make this personal choice. I felt like saying "I don't want children, I can't be on birth control and I DON'T want a piece of plastic shoved up in my uterus, OK!" I'm also seeking a consult through my surgeon through the breast care center, to see if she will do the surgery or if she can recommend another Dr. who might be on the lefter side of humanity.
Anyone have this surgery? Please chime in. I'm really only nervous about the post-surgical recovery part. Have your periods changed since your surgery?
Ahhh yes, the milestones of breast cancerness...at least I can talk about it in years rather than months and weeks now, right Penny? 1 year out! I say that and I have a little bit of anxiety about my upcoming appointment this next Tuesday with my surgeon - my 1 year post surgery follow-up. My surgeon looks like Kelly Clarkson, seriously!
At the end of September, I am having a tubal ligation. I want this. I don't want children. Thing is, the OBGYN Dr. ( I personally see a Nurse Practitioner, who works under this Dr.) is such a BITCH! I've never been made to feel so incompetent to make a decision until I met her, she made me feel as if I don't have the right to make this personal choice. I felt like saying "I don't want children, I can't be on birth control and I DON'T want a piece of plastic shoved up in my uterus, OK!" I'm also seeking a consult through my surgeon through the breast care center, to see if she will do the surgery or if she can recommend another Dr. who might be on the lefter side of humanity.
Anyone have this surgery? Please chime in. I'm really only nervous about the post-surgical recovery part. Have your periods changed since your surgery?
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
A year ago...
Today marks a year that has gone by since I was diagnosed with breast cancer! Other than it being a day that I will never forget, I think I've moved past the cloudy days and on to more sunny days and I let this past year guide me to a happier, charmed life. I have also made 2 really great friends - Penny and Deb - my BC Sistah's! The worst in our lives brought us together to celebrate the best of our lives...can't beat that!
So...CHEERS my friends to lives well lived!
So...CHEERS my friends to lives well lived!
Friday, February 15, 2008
Coming up to the surface for fresh air!
Just like the title says, I'm coming up for some MUCH NEEDED FRESH air!
BREAST CANCER UPDATE: Monday, I went for my check-ups with my Medical Oncologist who has now put me on Tamoxifen... (not that I've even dropped off the Rx to the pharmacy yet) ...and I also saw my Radiation Oncologist for a 1 month post-rad follow-up. I did finally get on the ball and signed all the necessary forms, consents and all that for the Young Women's Breast Cancer Study through DFCI and got a blood draw done for them as well. other than that, I'm fine, I'm healthy and I'm living.
Happy Valentine's Day! Sorry I missed it! Here are some chocolate's for you! MY FAVE!
Had a long week at work - but I survived it and passed our state survey that came in on Tuesday to see my group home. THAT went very well. But, without going into further detail, it was just a long week.
Speaking of work though, I am looking for a new job. I have found that at 35 years of age, I am finding that I cannot no longer be at the beckon and call 24-7. I want to save my sanity and de-stress. Not sure where I am headed yet, I have an interview on Tuesday...will share more next week.
So, my dad....he sent me 6, YES 6 bags of Dill Pickle Potato Chips (from Fargo, ND). I got a variety package this time with 3 different brands, 1 of which I think I can get here but that brand is not my favorite. My favorite is Barrel 'O Fun and Old Dutch, both of which you can only get like in ND and MN! So once in awhile Dad sends me chips! It's pure luxury having family in MN and ND...and it ain't because there is luxury in -30* weather!
So, I just took 4 days off from work - a much needed break. I'm going to watch all of my DVR'd Nip Tuck and American Idol episodes and eat Dill Pickle Potato Chips until a layer of skin peels off the inside of my mouth! (and it will!)
BREAST CANCER UPDATE: Monday, I went for my check-ups with my Medical Oncologist who has now put me on Tamoxifen... (not that I've even dropped off the Rx to the pharmacy yet) ...and I also saw my Radiation Oncologist for a 1 month post-rad follow-up. I did finally get on the ball and signed all the necessary forms, consents and all that for the Young Women's Breast Cancer Study through DFCI and got a blood draw done for them as well. other than that, I'm fine, I'm healthy and I'm living.
Happy Valentine's Day! Sorry I missed it! Here are some chocolate's for you! MY FAVE!
Had a long week at work - but I survived it and passed our state survey that came in on Tuesday to see my group home. THAT went very well. But, without going into further detail, it was just a long week.
Speaking of work though, I am looking for a new job. I have found that at 35 years of age, I am finding that I cannot no longer be at the beckon and call 24-7. I want to save my sanity and de-stress. Not sure where I am headed yet, I have an interview on Tuesday...will share more next week.
So, my dad....he sent me 6, YES 6 bags of Dill Pickle Potato Chips (from Fargo, ND). I got a variety package this time with 3 different brands, 1 of which I think I can get here but that brand is not my favorite. My favorite is Barrel 'O Fun and Old Dutch, both of which you can only get like in ND and MN! So once in awhile Dad sends me chips! It's pure luxury having family in MN and ND...and it ain't because there is luxury in -30* weather!
So, I just took 4 days off from work - a much needed break. I'm going to watch all of my DVR'd Nip Tuck and American Idol episodes and eat Dill Pickle Potato Chips until a layer of skin peels off the inside of my mouth! (and it will!)
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Breast Cancer Research
I've been asked to participate in a Young Women's Study about how Breast Cancer affects women under the age of 40. I've read all of the pertinent information about the study and for the most part, I just have to give blood samples each year, fill out questionnaire's once every 6 months for 3 years and then annually for 7 making a total of 10 years.
The packet I received is legit, I understand the study, it's sponsors and reasons...which I think are good - to study the emotional well-being, fertility concerns, sexual functioning, physical health and treatment decisions. Due to the lack of knowledge about most of these areas for young women, I could help be part of research that helps younger women, down the road who are diagnosed with breast cancer.
The packets says to talk about it with friends, co-workers, family, etc. and gather their thoughts and see if questions arise, pros, cons, etc.
10 years is a long time, but if Dr's can help young women cope with the diagnosis of breast cancer in the future, I want to help.
So...what are your thoughts??
The packet I received is legit, I understand the study, it's sponsors and reasons...which I think are good - to study the emotional well-being, fertility concerns, sexual functioning, physical health and treatment decisions. Due to the lack of knowledge about most of these areas for young women, I could help be part of research that helps younger women, down the road who are diagnosed with breast cancer.
The packets says to talk about it with friends, co-workers, family, etc. and gather their thoughts and see if questions arise, pros, cons, etc.
10 years is a long time, but if Dr's can help young women cope with the diagnosis of breast cancer in the future, I want to help.
So...what are your thoughts??
Friday, January 11, 2008
33-0
This morning, my "Club Radiation" membership expired. Sorry, won't be renewing this one!
So, I'm all done with radiation! WOOHOO! Ya know, it was an experience. Sure, I hated sitting in morning traffic for 30-40 minutes on average to go 8 miles most mornings...but seeing the BEST radiation therapists around was a super highlight of my day...it went by pretty fast, actually. Met some great people, left a huge impression on many!
My skin had healed already by Friday. I had blistered pretty badly under my breast and I thought I'd never recover! But, with a little TLC, it did!
I feel fine, most of my energy is back to normal, or so it seems. I'm not in bed before 8pm every night anymore.
My friend Penny and I went out for some brews last night...it was a great time! [PENNY! I woke up this morning and realized we didn't talk about the *you know what* for in 2 weeks when your membership expires!!!!]
So, the next phase (this is the one that scares me the most!!!) is I meet with my Oncologist on Monday and we'll discuss hormone therapy, the possibility of ovarian ablation and the fact that I do not have the desire the produce children (tubal ligation). All 3 of these situations bring up one huge problem: POTENTIAL WEIGHT GAIN! Christ, I already gained 35 lbs when I quit smoking...I took 18 off before I was diagnosed with breast cancer and you can guess where those 18 went from there...right back on my hips and ass! I'm currently researching hypnotherapy for weight loss. More on that later.
So, cheers! Radiation is done for me. Penny has 2 weeks left to go - ALMOST THERE GIRL!
GO PATS!
So, I'm all done with radiation! WOOHOO! Ya know, it was an experience. Sure, I hated sitting in morning traffic for 30-40 minutes on average to go 8 miles most mornings...but seeing the BEST radiation therapists around was a super highlight of my day...it went by pretty fast, actually. Met some great people, left a huge impression on many!
My skin had healed already by Friday. I had blistered pretty badly under my breast and I thought I'd never recover! But, with a little TLC, it did!
I feel fine, most of my energy is back to normal, or so it seems. I'm not in bed before 8pm every night anymore.
My friend Penny and I went out for some brews last night...it was a great time! [PENNY! I woke up this morning and realized we didn't talk about the *you know what* for in 2 weeks when your membership expires!!!!]
So, the next phase (this is the one that scares me the most!!!) is I meet with my Oncologist on Monday and we'll discuss hormone therapy, the possibility of ovarian ablation and the fact that I do not have the desire the produce children (tubal ligation). All 3 of these situations bring up one huge problem: POTENTIAL WEIGHT GAIN! Christ, I already gained 35 lbs when I quit smoking...I took 18 off before I was diagnosed with breast cancer and you can guess where those 18 went from there...right back on my hips and ass! I'm currently researching hypnotherapy for weight loss. More on that later.
So, cheers! Radiation is done for me. Penny has 2 weeks left to go - ALMOST THERE GIRL!
GO PATS!
Saturday, January 5, 2008
1 year...and 5 days to go!
You might think that's cryptic - meaning something exciting is going to happen in 1 year and 5 days. Nope. Sorry to disappoint! It means 2 things.
1. I celebrate having kept up with this blog for a year now! WOW! I can rarely commit to something for a week, let alone a year! (It's a Gemini thing!) (Funny...back in 1995 when I got on the bandwagon and bought a computer and got on the internet, I did this very exact same thing...web-logged about my life and my day on a web page in a journal type fashion... - I think through Geocities as a matter of fact...and everyone thought I was nuts to do that! After a few weeks, I quit.) How ironic that blogging is like "the thing to do" now!
2. 5 days left of radiation! M-F next week and I'm done-ola! I'm sad and glad - SAD because I actually looked forward to seeing the folks over there every morning. They are all just so sweet and downright cool! This place has left an impression on me of kindness and sincerity to my well-being and that, I think keeps people healthy! (How organic!) GLAD because I am sick of being tired and drained of all my energy (I'm in bed before 8pm everynight!) and I want my skin to heal. It just recently took a turn for the worst and it's painful! Lucky for me...the last 5 treatments are a "Boost" - meaning that my whole breast isn't being treated now, just the cancer area which is on the side. This means that the rest of my skin will start to heal now. AND in 2 weeks, I can wear my regular deodorant again! One can never feel shitty enough about themselves until they can't have their regular deodorant/antiperspirant! Bad enough I can't have my underwire bras!
1. I celebrate having kept up with this blog for a year now! WOW! I can rarely commit to something for a week, let alone a year! (It's a Gemini thing!) (Funny...back in 1995 when I got on the bandwagon and bought a computer and got on the internet, I did this very exact same thing...web-logged about my life and my day on a web page in a journal type fashion... - I think through Geocities as a matter of fact...and everyone thought I was nuts to do that! After a few weeks, I quit.) How ironic that blogging is like "the thing to do" now!
2. 5 days left of radiation! M-F next week and I'm done-ola! I'm sad and glad - SAD because I actually looked forward to seeing the folks over there every morning. They are all just so sweet and downright cool! This place has left an impression on me of kindness and sincerity to my well-being and that, I think keeps people healthy! (How organic!) GLAD because I am sick of being tired and drained of all my energy (I'm in bed before 8pm everynight!) and I want my skin to heal. It just recently took a turn for the worst and it's painful! Lucky for me...the last 5 treatments are a "Boost" - meaning that my whole breast isn't being treated now, just the cancer area which is on the side. This means that the rest of my skin will start to heal now. AND in 2 weeks, I can wear my regular deodorant again! One can never feel shitty enough about themselves until they can't have their regular deodorant/antiperspirant! Bad enough I can't have my underwire bras!
Monday, December 10, 2007
Pfffft - NO SNOW :(
We didn't get any snow, but I'm assuming that it's cold and icy out there as we did get rain.
Today is 11/33 treatment - I'll be a third of the way done today - only 22 more to go! My friend Penny goes in for her simulation today then starts her treatments tomorrow.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Tired
This one's for Dave!
Kinda tired the last couple of days, but trying to keep my normal routine bedtime and get up around the same time. Not sure if it's because of my weird sleeping woes or the treatment. I'm not normally a tired person - I usually have enough energy to run a small city!
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
A quote for today's advent spirit calendar...
I'll be headed out in about 30 minutes to day 8/33 of treatments. I see the Dr. today, too. I'm starting to get "pinker" in the treatment area - like a pink sunburn - it's more noticeable than last week. Other than that - doing fine!
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