Dis Breast Cancer Survivors Part III - GAGWTA!

[honugirl]

You would think it should be easy. But that's life with insurances. I know it is frustrating dealing with it all.

So in about 2 weeks we will be going to a religous convention in Wheeling, WV. We are staying at a hotel just outside of WV in OH. So I prepaid it all because I knew I would have to have my final payment for Disney in. I called just to check and they say they have not received all of my paments. I go online to my bank and forward all the checks to them. They finally called back and said that my payments were made to another reservation.
WHAT?!?!? Talk about having a coronary. I finally got it straightened out this morning. Whew!!!

Sounds like fun!!!!!!! How long are you going to be there?

 

[luvmarypoppins]

Good afternoon sistas!

Trying to type quietly while ds19 is sleeping behind me on the couch. The day yest. was LONG. We were there at 8am and the surgeon had a 2 hour delay/problem with the person in front of ds, so he was not happy. The hosp. had 58 scheduld operations yest. Of course everyone says hi who knows me there. Gosh, what a reputation to have! While waiting I see the other rad. onc. I might have had, I dont know if his speciality is thyroid though. His wife was getting operated on and his 2 sons were waiting. He really doesnt know me, I just saw him in the hall. The surgery was 1 hr. 45 min. and the surgeon said ds nose was wose than expected, so it took a while to fix. We finally got home after 9 pm. When we left the lady across from ds was waiting to get a lumpectomy. (8:45 pm, gosh!!) I saw her dr. He just operated on a girl from my church. This poor lady was crying saying she hadent eaten, had a headache etc. I didnt talk to her, just heard her alot. D s is miserable, sleeping alot, appears to have a feve,r living on ice water and percocet, throws up everything he eats, and the wonderful side effect he will hav since the surgery caused hm to accunulate alot of blood in his belly, throwing yp blood for the next 3 days. The bandage might come off later if he iisnt draining etc. Trying to help him the best I can. He actually changed the bandage twice himself. He goes back for a post op next friday.

GTAGWTA. Thinking of you all. Thanks for praying for ds.

 

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

GAGWTA, Ladies!

Candy, YIKES! I am glad they found your payments!

Maryann, your poor DS! I hope he is feeling better soon!

We are off to WDW! DH is glaring at me because I am supposed to be getting in the shower.

Hoping everyone has a good 2 weeks! Can't believe the summer will practically be over when we get back.

 

[Notatourist]

Long time so....GAGWTA!

Didn't feel like typing much after the doc added more chemo. Built up to six rounds being it and still feel like this will never be over. It will be, I know, but it's so depressing...

At least it seems like in about a week and half I will be going to back to work part-time.

Honu-GIRL! Go to it. You can help people, I know it.

LMP-Wow, sounds like the plate is full, my thoughts to your son...

Candy-glad they found your ressies as well.

Everyone else, thanks for listening, it helps to know others are out there.

 

[Aliceacc]

Long time so....GAGWTA!

Didn't feel like typing much after the doc added more chemo. Built up to six rounds being it and still feel like this will never be over. It will be, I know, but it's so depressing...

Everyone else, thanks for listening, it helps to know others are out there.

Oh, I'm so sorry to hear about the chemo. But remember: it's NOT the enemy.. the enemy is the cancer.

And I second the thanks. I have not found a better source for info an understanding, anywhere, than this thread!

 

[tazdev3225]

I don't know if this is the place to be but I'm looking for some advice and maybe some positive vibes from those of you who have been there. I had a mammogram on Tuesday and yesterday morning my drs office called. They found an area in my left breast that they want to study further. They think it is just a cyst, and I have had one before but i was premenopausal then. They want a more in depth mammogram and possibly an ultrasound right after. I know I shouldn't be worried but I am scared anyway. The odds are its nothing, I can't even feel anything where they say it is but I am still upset. I know compared to what so many of you have been through this is nothing but since the dr thinks it is probably just another cyst should I be worried? Thank you all for letting me cry on your shoulder. I really had no where else to turn because I don't want to worry my kids unless I have to. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[Aliceacc]

OF course you're worried!!! You would be crazy not to be worried!!

But know that the odds are overwhelming that it's absolutley nothing. The vast majority of women who show atypical results have no problem.

Until that's verified, hang out here with us!

One suggestion though: DON'T google "abnormal breast tissue" or anything similar. If it's necessary, there's time enough for that after you get results. In the meantime, you'll make yourself crazy over a zillion possibiities that don't apply to you.

 

[tazdev3225]

OF course you're worried!!! You would be crazy not to be worried!!

But know that the odds are overwhelming that it's absolutley nothing. The vast majority of women who show atypical results have no problem.

Until that's verified, hang out here with us!

One suggestion though: DON'T google "abnormal breast tissue" or anything similar. If it's necessary, there's time enough for that after you get results. In the meantime, you'll make yourself crazy over a zillion possibiities that don't apply to you.

Thank you. I did start to google about cystic breasts last night and my DH turned my computer off. He said the same thing so I am trying not to look up anything. They did tell me I'll have instant results on what they think wednesday but that seems like an eternity. I am trying to keep positive thoughts.

 

[snappy]

tazdev3225, welscome to our thread although I wish we could be meeting when you were not so anxious.

The type of mammogram theywill do is probably what is called the diagnostic mammogram. They will magnify the area to get a better look. What happens at the breaast center I go to is that a radiologist reads it immediately while you are waiting in case he/she wants more views.

Do not worry if they ask for more, it is a sign the doctor is being thorough. When I get mine, a number of patients seems to be asked for more views.

I did not have a problem with cystic breasts, as my breast cancer was detected by mammogram via a bunch of suspicious calcifications.

I know it is easy to say but it is true that it is good that the radiologists reading your screening mammogram is being thorough.

The stats are on your side. Of the women who progress to having a biopsy, 80% turn out with benign results.

However, I understand how your feeling. It is really hard to wait for tests not to mention results. Try and relax and come back to meet the ladies here.

We have a great bunch and we welcome anyone facing further testing like you.

Is your husband going with you on Wednesday? I would advise having someone with you as you will be nervous and it is great to have someone to distract you.

Also, think about requesting copies of the reports from your diagnostic mammogram and ultrasound it you need that test as well.

It might be helpful for the future to document what is found. I have a folder where I keep my reports. It makes me feel a little more in control of the deal.

Good luck. Be sure and let us know what happens.

 

[tazdev3225]

Thanks Snappy. I will be going alone as my DH is a sheriff and has an overnight trip to transport prisoners and is leaving that day. He did say he wants me to call the second I leave to let him know what is going on. My dad told me several years ago that cysts run in my mom's family. My mom doesn't tell me anything and would be less than supportive about this. I know in my head that this is probably nothing but that still doesn't stop me from worrying. I went through this 10 years ago and had to go for the biopsy. Waiting for those results seems like years. I really have a lot of respect for all you on here who deal with this. I am trying to keep positive thoughts about this because I know that helps with everything that is faced.

 

[lookingforward]

Tazdev3225 hang in there! Most likely it is benign, but as snappy (laurie) said, its best to be really careful and get a good look at the area. The great members of this thread have helped many women who have gone through the awful waiting for results, etc.

I have been woefully out of touch lately. I feel like I sing the same ol' tune by complaining about work but thats a huge part of it. I come home from work mentally and physically exhausted. Getting through June was tough as it was the one year anniversary of my mom's death and it was as hard as I imagined. I am beginning to feel a bit better now, day by day.

I have three classes to finish for my Masters degree and had to drop the one I was taking this term. It was just too much. So I will retake it in the spring, and am taking two classes this fall. Then I am "done". I know this is going to sound nutso but I am seriously considering going on for my Ph.D. That would allow me to teach at the college level (my dream). I could then stop working 8 to 5. I would also allow me to be more creative. We'll see how I continue to feel mentally and physically, but I must say that I really love, love, LOVE learning. Much more now than when I was an undergrad in the 1980's partying like a rock star!

I can't believe it is almost the end of summer. My kids go back to school on 8/18. They have had a great summer. This week my daughter had a lead in Hairspray at her theater camp, where my son is working as a counselor. My oldest just purchased his "dream" car....a 1994 Nissan 240 sx....which he plans to use to "drift" (race sideways...don't ask!) All I can say is.................
As long as he stays in school...he is doing well at college so we are trying to be supportive of his dreams....

I have read through most of the past seven pages of posts to catch up with everyone. I am praying for all of you going through medical intervention or who are in pain. Please know we are here for you...

 

[Candy30]

Hi Everyone!!

Tazd- Welcome! This is the best place to be. I understand that you are curious and you want to find out right now!! It's hard to wait. But I think the best advice is to see what the result are first before you start looking up anything. Is there anyone that can go with you? Also I agree and have done what Snappy suggested. Get a folder and keep all the notes and documents in there. I have a notebook that I kept with folders in it. It helps.

Honu-Hey girl! I will be there for 4 days! I can't wait. It is always upbuilding and encouraging.

Nota- Where have you been?!?! Missed you. I hope you begin to feel better soon. Take the time and let yourself heal.

LF- I am for you going for your PHD. If you can do it then do your dream girl.

Snappy-You always have good advice. I love it.

Alice and Jacks-Hope you are having fun!!!

Ok so off topic but I cut my hair! I wish I knew how to upload pictures. It was breaking off from treatment and color that I had put it and I decided to cut it. My kids love it. My husband....not soo much.

 

[luvmarypoppins]

Good morning ladies, Its sunny here finally, yippee!!

tazdev - welcome. The ladies here are the best! I am sure you are anxious and can't wait for wednesday to come and be over. It is good that everything is being checked out. I had a call back once and it turned out fine. So hang out with us here.

nota - sorry about having to get more chemo. I know this year I sometimes felt I couldnt see the light at the end of the tunnel. But God is good even in the times I felt like I didnt know where the light was. My faith really brings me alot of peace and confort. Praying for you.

Laura - I hope you had a great week end with your sister aned celebrating your dds birtday and hope the blood tests turn out good

Candy - glad your problems got straightened out,.A religious conference sounds nice, is it more learning, fellowship, praise (O.K. I love praise music) etc?
Lisa - When will you know if the surgeon will take your case. Is this at MD Anderson?

Laurie - A Sept.mini trip sounds fun. I love the Dolphin and Swan. The grotto pool is fantastic.

Barbara - Hope you will be able to fulfill your dream and teach one day. I think my dh would eventually like to do that too. He has mentored college studets at work and did get the mentor of the year award one year, so its good experience.You must also be so very proud of your children.

Hi to Linda, Sha, Ann, Meliisa and everyone else

Well ds appears to be a little better. Still in alot of pain. I am doling out the percocet. I left him some for overnight the other night, that was a mistake, so now I am in full control of it. He is still spitting up the blood. Finally is eating food but says its hard to swallow and chew. My poor baby. I tried to help do something and ds21 says, why are you asking mommy to help you, she has cancer etc. DS19 says, dont you know I feel bad asking her etc. Gotta love em! Well I took ds17 to work today. They asked him to do the kids camp at the bowling alley and he is off lifeguarding. So I happen to see the school principal because I made a wrong turn in the comlex, and he tells me he had 2 cancerous growths removed from his head, (I see the bandage) boy, this is the guy who had the head and neck cancer etc. I felt so bad for him. Tomm. is my surgeon (stomach) visit. Wish me luck!! and say a orayer! Oh and dh is going on a business trip next week end I think and he is taking ds17 with him. Here I sit home, boo hoo,. Following Elizabeths trip report.

GTAGWTA

 

[tazdev3225]

Thank you all for the welcome. I have 3 grandkids to watch for the next 2 days so fortunately they keep me too busy to have time to worry. The tests are early Wednesday so I will have them done and over with quite early and will have a better idea then. I am keeping an upbeat attitude and trying to remember that i went through this once before and it was nothing. The dr even feels it is just a cyst but wants to be sure. I just wish my DH was going to be home that day. At least he'll be back in time for my birthday.

 

[honugirl]

Hey Snappy! Soundsl ike fun! I wish I had a nice peaceful place to rest and recuperate.

LMP, no, the surgeon is at OHSU. I'll hear from them in 3-5 days. The more I wait the more I wonder if this is where I'm supposed to be. I don't really like his support staff. Everyone who's used him for their surgery loves him, but his support staff has been pretty rude. I actually had to call one of them out and ask if they'd lost my paperwork because he's an outside physician. Hmmm, oddly enough, 5 minutes after my phone call she called back to say they'd found it.... then they called the other day to ask if this was a second opinion since my paperwork was soooooo confusing. So we'll see. The wait is on.

I'm just ready for it to be over. I'm sick as a dog again with another cold. Coughing, the works.

I hope everyone's feeling good and having a good summer!

GAGWTA!!!!!!!!!

 

[luvmarypoppins]

Hi Ladies

Linda - I was watching medical mysteries and they had something on that reminded me of your brother, it was called histo?

Lisa - Forgot to ask you yest., what book are you reading? I wold like to read A Journal for Jordan. Saw the author on Oprah and she was actually at a book store here for a book signing and I of course, forgot about it.

Laura - Hope things are going a little better for you.

O.K. should I vent, whine, have a pity party etc? Well I went to the surgeon today. Of course I dont get my favorite np. I do happen to get the last parking place in the whole lot, not a good start etc. Well then there must be the wonderful medical student observing. O.K. he just looks, doesnt touch, doesnt say a thing etc. Dr. M. then proceeds to tell me dh is packing the wound wrong, its healing "weird", so he has to debride it again in the office, oh what joy! He did say it was looking good, yeah, not after you just did that to me!! He wants to see me in 3 weeks. Oh, wait he will be on vacation then, so I have to wait an extra 2 weeks. I said, I sure hope something doesnt happen when you are gone (with my luck it probably willl), he said,no you should be alright. I told him to have a good vacation. So I havent looked but I hope he didnt make the hole bigger again or I will mostly likely cry. So there goes the summer again, no swimming for me etc. The only good thing that came of this was that he said I dont have to wear the binder anymore, yeah because I told him it was making me hot and itchy. I was trying to see if my clunker cold be traded in if they still have the program, from what I read, apparently not, hmm. It hinges on an engine type and 1 mile, I will have to have ds look under the hood etc. I sure hope I dont hear bad news from the endo on thurs. about my blood test. I sure need some better news this week. o.k. pity party over. at least for now. Well I havent turned into Job yet, but God is sure teaching me that I need to have alot of patience.

O.k. I drooled over Elizabeths steak and creme brule pictures too. Is there a drooling smilie??

GTAGWTA. Thinking of you all. Blessings to you all.

 

[laurabelle]

~~~***GAGWTA sistas***~~~

I was admitted to the hospital yesterday. Long story short, IV steroids are not working either. I'm scheduled for total colectomy/ileostomy surgery Thursday. Feel like crap (I couldn't resist)Looking forward to feeling better!Will post when I'm able.
Be well!

 

[Aliceacc]

GAWTA ladies!!!

Just a quick driveby. Laurabelle and LMP, I'm sorry for the turn things have taken!

We're off to WDW in the morning; our ride arrives at 5 am. I'm stopping by in between doing the girl's nails and trying to find the last charger for my son's DS.

Be well. I'll be back in a week!

 

[lookingforward]

~~~***GAGWTA sistas***~~~

I was admitted to the hospital yesterday. Long story short, IV steroids are not working either. I'm scheduled for total colectomy/ileostomy surgery Thursday. Feel like crap (I couldn't resist)Looking forward to feeling better!Will post when I'm able.
Be well!

I am thinking about you. I hope you have a successful surgery and that you start feeling well very, very soon!

 

[Sha]

LMP.... I wonder what he means by healing wrong. And if he made it larger, that isnt a bad thing. If the top was closing faster than the bottom, then that will allow it to heal bottom up and decrease risk for it closing over with it unhealed under. I am sure ALL of what you have been going through has been overwhelming and exhausting. Vent all you want! Thoughts and prayers

Laurabelle... prayers for your surgery. Love the dancing banana. Prayers for the surgical team too.

Have been keeping you all in prayers. You are an amazing group of women.