Denise's Happy, Healthy,Healing Journal-Posts welcome

[Foxfiregrrl]

Wow, Denise What a lot to be going through all at once and all of a sudden! I am amazed at how upbeat you are staying and I think it is great! I have read over and over that keeping a positive outlook really helps in recovering from anything and especially cancer. Also eating healthy and exercising.

So, it looks like you are on the right path to recovery

It looks like you will have a nice relaxing vacation right before you start rad. I think that is a good idea. You can go relax, refresh and then come back and rid yourself of the cancer for good!

Take it one day at a time and take care of yourself.

 

[DisDee]

Amber, thanks for the sweet words of encouragement! That's just what I need!

Today is the day that I told myself I would handle all of the medical, insurance and disability phone calls. Sounds like fun, right? I really need to psych myself to do this. I hate handling that kind of stuff. I'm also keeping a binder and journal with all the paperwork that goes along with this, so that also needs some organization.

Yesterday I played around in my extra bedroom, and made myself some space to do some crafts, photo albums etc. This was the room that used to be my DD's, but when she got married it became MINE! I've been using it as for the extra closet space, and her old dresser is in there so I have lots of space for my junk. I also have a vanity with a make-up mirror which I need 'cause I can't see close up anymore. So with the new space for being creative, it will help me pass the time while I am still out of work. I picked up a couple of needlework kits the other day, so now I'm anxious to get started on those.

I checked out some of the fitness programs on Comcast on Demand, and found couple of low intensity workouts that I'm going to try. I really need to do something during this time and keep up some kind of fitness routine. I have a stretching routine that I received from physical therapy a couple of years ago, so I'm going to use that as my starting point. Just because I have a medical problem, doesn't mean I can't be healthy. Does that make any sense?

Make it good day!

 

[DisDee]

I hung out around the house this past week. All of my friends are at work during the day, so there's not much going on besides running errands, making dinner and just finding things to pass the time. I went to the bookstore again and picked up a Carol Higgins Clark mystery. I've been keeping my book choices on the light side cause I get easily distracted with everything that is on my mind. Started an embroidery project..its nice to do something creative. Tomorrow I'm having family over for dinner which should be fun. I do enjoy cooking when I have the time.

My food choices haven't been the greatest, but I weigh myself daily to make sure I stay at the same weight for my treatments.

Time for bed. I've been listening to my nature music and I also have a CD that I bought at AKL which is very soothing and helps me relax.

More tomorrow...

 

[DisDee]

I have an appt. for my yearly mammogram tomorrow. I'll be up bright and early since my appt. is at 8:30 and I have at least a half hour drive during rush hour.After that, I'm not sure what I'm doing. I know I need to pay some bills and do some household stuff, so I guess I should make a list. Monday is a "taking care of business" day, so Tuesday will be a D-Day. That's what I call the days when I nurture myself.

I made a ADR for our day in Epcot in May. I managed to get 7:40 at the Rose and Crown, so...if we order appetizers and desserts and eat very slowly, we should still be there for Illuminations at 9. I'm trying to decide where to have dinner on the 11th, which will be our 34th anniversary. It will be a non-park day, as we return from the cruise that day.

We had a nice dinner today with my family. Made a yummy pork roast and a roasted chicken too. (My sister doesn't eat beef or pork.) I now have leftovers for at least 1 meal, maybe more which is a good thing!

Time to call it a night. Have a super week everyone!

 

[DisDee]

I had my mammogram this morning-now I play the waiting game. I contacted the fitness center which is affiliated with the treatment center that I'll be going to. The gym has some special programs geared toward cancer patients, but the fee is outrageous. With my Dr.'s ok, I think I'll continue at Curves. I really wish it were spring and the weather was nicer so I could go outside and walk.

I canceled my WW Monthly Pass for now since my weight can't change during treatment. I still can use the program materials and keep a food journal which will be helpful in knowing how different foods affect me, and how much I actually eat to keep my weight at the same level. I'm weighing myself every day and it seems to fluctuate in a 2 pound range. I also made an appt. with a nutritionist, but that's not until March. My health plan covers 6 visits at no charge.

Tomorrow is my fun day so I have to decide what to do. I think I'll check out the class schedules for the local craft stores and see if they have any interesting projects. Sounds like a plan!

 

[Goofydiane]

Thanks for the link to your journal Denise. You've got a lot going on and yet you not only have a fabulous spirit, you are sharing encouragement with others.

I'm going to keep up with your journal now!

 

[DisDee]

I finally got around to checking out a bead crafting store in my neighborhood yesterday. I've never done bead work before, but I've always enjoyed crafts, so I signed up for a class on Thursday. This particular class is a beginner level bracelet. I picked some colors that will go with an outfit that I plan to wear on the cruise, so I have until May to complete the project. It just might take me that long. LOL!

I also went to Curves yesterday. I just took my time and didn't over-do it. I'll gradually add a little more intensity each time I go. It felt good to be there and chit-chat with the other members. I'll continue to go as long as I feel up to it. I'm also going to wear my pedometer and try to get in a little more walking. I think I'll hit the mall today which is a mile if I walk into each entranceway. While I'm there I can stop at the Disney store and buy some DD$. Got to build up my stash for May.

I'm also going to a consignment shop today with some items that I don't feel like listing on ebay. I've had time to clean out some drawers and closets, so maybe I'll get some extra $ for the trip. I love "found" money!

Time to get movin'. Make it a wonderful Wednesday!

 

[DisDee]

I had a very good day yesterday! I walked 2.6 mi, which felt wonderful. I've got my pedometer on again today, so I'm hoping the steps add up.

DH and I did a little shopping for our upcoming trips. We went to the Penney's outlet and picked up 2 carry-on pieces of luggage. They're both made really well with lots of pockets and a detachable toiletries holder. We're doing carry-on only when we fly to Tampa, so they'll work just great. I also went to the Disney Store for my $$$$, and ended up finding a couple of deals. Cushy Tink slippers for $5 and "Pirates" T-shirts for the cruise. Not sure if hubby will be into that, but I think I can get him to wear one. I found some mark-downs at Kohl's and got Capris, a beautiful blouse and a straw hat for the cruise for $10.20.- with my $10.00 coupon, I spent $.20-now that's a deal. They were last summer's mark-downs (90%), but who cares?

I know it seems kind of weird for me to be writing about the trips, but that's one of the things that will help me get thru the anxiety of my treatments. I love to plan my Florida trips, it keeps me happy.

Time to focus on my kitchen...not fun.

I'll be back later!

 

[goldcupmom]

Sounds like things are going relatively well, Dee! I've been MIA, but thinking about you often & keeping you in prayers.

Great shopping deals!!! You're my kind of woman!!

Hope you can have a relaxing weekend.

 

[DisDee]

Where have the last few days gone?

I took the beginner beading class on Thursday and really enjoyed it! I'm working on the bracelet and it's coming together nicely. It took me awhile to get the hang of it, but now I find it very therapeutic. I'll be going there one day next week to get some help with the next step. Everyone is so nice!

On Friday, I got the letter from my mammogram which says everything looks good! (big sigh of relief) Yeah! I hung out at home all day cause the weather was so lousy with heavy rain. I made a nice dinner and we relaxed in the evening. DH has been working a bunch of extra hours on a couple of special projects. Thankfully he works for company that allows him to flex his time so he's able to be available for my appts. when I need him. They've been very understanding with him.

I met a friend from work today for lunch. We had a nice time and then I helped her choose a baby gift at "Babies Are Us". I haven't shopped for baby things in ages, so that was fun. Then hubby and I went grocery shopping which we needed to do desperately. He went to bed cause he has to get up at 3:30 for work, and I'm sitting here watching "Father of the Bride" again. No matter how many times I see it, I still enjoy it!

So, my plan for tomorrow is to catch up with some journals. Thanks to everyone who has posted here. I really appreciate your support during this rough time.

 

[Goofydiane]

I'm impressed with the shopping deals! I never go to our Disney store anymore, it is at the Mall of America and I just don't like that mall.

The beading class sounds like fun and I can see how it can be therapeutic. what a great place to meet new friends.

Hope you have a great week coming up!

 

[DisDee]

Today I have an appt. at the treatment center for my preliminary rad. treatment. This is just to get me lined up on the equipment and check my marks and set up my time schedule. I don't receive rad. today. I think this will help me for when I get the first real treatment. At least I'll be familiar with the room and machine, and it won't be as intimidating.

I also have some errands to run in the area near the center. Hallmark, library, party store-all the stuff I used to take care of on my lunch hour and on the way home from work.

We went to dinner last night at a local pub-type place. I ordered the crab and cheese dip which is way too good! I've been doing some stress eating lately. Its always been my coping mechanism.

Time to get ready for the appt.

 

[goldcupmom]

How did yesterday go, Dee? Hopefully well & a bit reassuring.

Hang in there!

 

[goldcupmom]

Just thinking about you & wondering how things are going. You're in my prayers!!!

Hang in there & update us when you can!

 

[DisDee]

"The reason most people never reach their goals is that they don't define them, learn them or ever seriously consider them as believable or achievable." Dennis Waitley

I'm baaack! I can't believe I haven't posted in a week. I honestly don't know how I juggled everything while working and taking care of the house and myself. I guess I'll find out soon enough when I go back after my treatments.

I started my radiation on Monday. DH flexed his time so he could take me which was nice. I'd really gotten myself worked up in anticipation of the start date. I've been doing so well, that the thought of "cancer treatment" justed freaked me out. My nurse told me that I shouldn't expect any side effects for about 2 weeks, if then. Maybe I'll be one of the lucky ones and have only minimal discomfort. I've been given a special diet to follow for when the GI problems start which is the common side effect of pelvic radiation.

So, enough of all that. Julie, thanks for checking in on me. I appreciate it more that you'll ever know!

We had a great time on our quickie trip to Florida! We visited the Florida Aquarium in Tampa and then went to our hotel in Clearwater. The place was amazing...built in 1897, huge and sprawling, and a bargain since its awaiting an extensive renovation in 2009. I just love staying at historic properties! We went over to their beach club which sits on the gulf and had a yummy lunch while there. Came back and wandered the hotel (while making jokes about "The Shining"), then went to the huge outdoor pool with hot tub. We also took a ride along the gulf thru the little towns and stopped at John's Pass, a tacky but fun boardwalk area in Madeira Beach. Had brunch there and did some shopping. I bought a couple of cover-ups for our cruise in May.

I have to stop for now and do some more catching up with other stuff. I'll be Dissing again later. Have a wonderful Wednesday!

 

[DisDee]

Here I am into my second week of treatments and everything is going well. I'm not having any symptoms or discomfort to date which I am very thankful for. I am feeling a little more tired than usual, so that may be a side effect.

We had a busy weekend. Our daughter, Lauren came to visit on Friday night, so we had to go to Phila. to pick her up at 30th St. (Amtrack). On Sat. I had an early hair appt., then came home and had breakfast and made plans for the day. Lauren decided she wanted to go to Ikea, so we all- Mom, Sis, Niece, Lauren and I drove back to Phila. We spent a couple of hours wandering around, and I bought a couple of travel items. Found a sling backpack for $3.04 and a case for my MP3 player. I also bought one of their huge shopping bags for $.59 which I figure will work great for a laundry bag while traveling. I can tote all our stuff to the OKW pool when we get back from the cruise, throw it in the washer and relax and have a drink.

We had a big dinner when we returned from shopping. I started an oven stuffer before we left home and hubby took care of that, so when we got back, we made some sides, opened some wine and had a nice family dinner. Oh yeah, DS and his DW also came over, so we had a big group.

We relaxed on Sunday and took Lauren back for her train around 3.

So now I'm back into the treatment mode. I have to call my primary cause my blood sugar is running high. I also have to go over to Curves and put my membership on medical hold cause my 2 docs have conflicting opinions as to whether I should work out or not. I figure I'll just take it easy, stretch and walk and let my body have time to heal itself. I know my treatments will have me more fatigued as time goes on, so I have to listen to my body. I also have to call my med. ins. and see if they will adjust the time for my fitness reimbursement. Might as well get my $150.00 back if I can.

Hope all is going well for everyone. My plan is to catch up on your journals tomorrow. Have a great day!!!!

 

[goldcupmom]

Sounds like things are good & you're on track! Glad to hear it! Still praying.....

 

[DisDee]

Thanks Julie! I know the prayers are working because I continue to feel good, just a little tired. I took a nap for about 1.5 hr. today, so I'll be up tonight. I can make my DCL ressies for Palo at 12:01-my 75 day mark.

We have crappy weather today in the Phila. area. Snow in the early morning that turned to freezing rain, then rain. I'm sure it will get icy tonight as the temp drops. Thank goodness I don't have to go anywhere tonight.

I've completed 2 weeks of radiation therapy...3 more to go. I had an appt. with my primary today and my weekly blood work too. My blood sugar was 100 today, which is great for me!

I'm trying to remember what I did all week. We applied for our passports on Tues., which was exciting. I hear they're being processed much more quickly now. Wed was just a typical day, although the RT machine was down for awhile, so I was at the treatment center much longer than usual. Thursday I met a co-worker for lunch, went to Hallmark, then to my treatment. It amazes me how quickly the week goes by since I'm not working.

I'll check back in later and let you know if I was successful with the Palo ressies. Have a great weekend!

 

[DisDee]

Good news...I got my Palo ressie for the day and time I hoped for so I'm wondering if our cruise is lightly booked. We also booked the Discover Atlantis Tour. Hubby really enjoys going to Aquariums and we'll get to explore the resort a little.

I spent the day at home today. The weather was somewhat dismal so I just stayed put. I plan to get out tomorrow since we're supposed to get some sunshine. I know I have to pick up a birthday gift, so I'll take a walk around the mall, and I'm not sure what else. DH has to work in the morning, so I'll try to plan a little something fun for him too. Maybe we'll hit one of his favorite antique stores.

I received a letter from my health plan today stating that they extended my "workout year" due to the surgery and treatment. This way, I'll have the opportunity to qualify for the $150.00 reimbursement. I just have to log the required number of workouts.

I think I'll take some time to update my medical paperwork and journal. I'm trying my best to write about what happens at each appt, my weight, bp etc., and also to keep all the forms, lab results and other paperwork in some type of order. So, that's my goal for tonight. doesn't that sound like a fun Saturday night?

I'll check in tomorrow with more tales of my exciting life. LOL!

 

[Goofydiane]

Denise - Glad to hear the treatments are going well! You are an inspiration to the rest of us.