Dis Breast Cancer Survivors Part IV - GAGWTA

[snappy]

Thanks for dropping in, Kachina, and sharing your story.

Good luck to your husband with his treatments. Glad he is doing well. It sounds like his doctor is being very thorough, and it always to lean in that direction rather than leaving any stone unturned, especially with such a young person.

My mom was diagnosed with squamous cell at the same time she was diagnosed with breast cancer (at age 78), right in midst of the aftermath of a hurricane that struck hard here.

Breast cancer was dealt with first. But her squamous cell was on one of her legs. There was no spread to lymph nodes from either cancer, very lucky.

Mom walked outside for years around a track with her friends and I suspect sun exposure over a fairly long lifetime along with thinning skin (she bruises very easily) contributed to her skin cancer. We even thought she just had bruised herself and that it was taking too long to heal. The dermatologist knew immediately what it was, sent her to a dermatological surgical specialist who used the Moh's method to remove it and review the pathology at the same time. Got it in one surgery. I was impressed with the science and the expertise of both dermatologists.

Please check in again and let us know how your husband is doing with treatment. Congrats on being a 5 year survivor yourself! I bet it helps your husband to have your support. My mom says my history and knowledge helped her immensely when she faced breast cancer.

GAGWTA!

 

[snappy]

Linda, thanks for posting in response to GAsleepingbeautyfan and tar heel. Your comments are always just what I wished I would have said if I had thought of it.

Snappy is slowing down here. We need to make it through this weekend with my brother coming in tomorrow. I think it is time soon though.

I had a complete meltdown yesterday morning when I could not get my Sonicare toothbrush head to stay on and not go flying off. so very silly. I think I channeled my emotions about Snappy right into that toothbrush. I was glad no one else was home and that I could get myself together.

Sorry to be maudlin. It seems I am wallowing in this. Not my usual ways. This is new territory for me.

 

[Pea-n-Me]

Laurie, my mind works a certain way because of my background. I think you do a fantastic job of sharing your experiences, and you do it with great detail, empathy and kindness. Please keep doing what you do. It's always good to hear a variety of opinions.

I'm sorry you're upset about Snappy, and I know how you feel. I shed a lot of tears myself watching my girl struggle to move and knowing how she used to be. (She looked like poetry in motion when she ran - absolutely beautiful structure and gait. Now she's lost a lot of weight and muscle tone, is getting bony, etc.) Last night I looked over at DH and he had tears in his eyes, too. It is very hard working your way up to that awful decision. Once it's over, though, it's a relief in many ways. It's just really hard to get there. I wish it was easier, but it's not. I will post a poem that always helps me. (I take it to heart, too.)

FROM FRIEND TO FRIEND

You're giving me a special gift,
So sorrowfully endowed,
And through these last few cherished days,
Your courage makes me proud.

But really, love is knowing
When your best friend is in pain,
And understanding earthly acts
Will only be in vain.

So looking deep into your eyes,
Beyond, into your soul,
I see in you the magic, that will
Once more make me whole.

The strength that you possess,
Is why I look to you today,
To do this thing that must be done,
For it's the only way.

That strength is why I've followed you,
And chose you as my friend,
And why I've loved you all these years...
My partner 'til the end.

Please, understand just what this gift,
You're giving, means to me,
It gives me back the strength I've lost,
And all my dignity.

You take a stand on my behalf,
For that is what friends do.
And know that what you do is right,
For I believe it too.

So one last time, I breathe your scent,
And through your hand I feel,
The courage that's within you,
To now grant me this appeal.

Cut the leash that holds me here,
Dear friend, and let me run,
Once more a strong and steady dog,
My pain and struggle done.

And don't despair my passing,
For I won't be far away,
Forever here, within your heart,
And memory I'll stay.

I'll be there watching over you,
Your ever faithful friend,
And in your memories I'll run,
...a young dog once again.

In Memory of Asta, Feb. 1997

http://www.petloss.com/poems/maingrp/friendto.htm

 

[snappy]

Thanks, Linda. I took Snappy for a short walk just now, even though its a bit wet out. Did a bit of crying, just watching her sniff both the ground then up into the air.

I read your words and the poem you posted on my phone when I was sitting by her "mat" in my bedroom. I was glad I read in then, when I was sitting on the floor petting her.

It was a moment I will not forget.

Thanks, we will get through this.

What gifts we have had from these angels.

 

[Kachina]

Wow, Kachina. You've both been through a lot at relatively young ages. I don't think I've ever heard of such extensive treatment for squamous cell carcinoma! Someone did a great job figuring all of that out. How is his arm doing now in terms of functionality? Welcome, too.

Thankfully, everything is working great. There was a lot of concern in the beginning about whether he'd end up with some serious edema, which caused some crazy anxiety attacks for me because he makes his living working with his hands. (Nuclear pharmacist)

Thank you for your kind words. It always makes me feel better. I've been through so much more than cancer, but I refuse to give up.

Thanks for dropping in, Kachina, and sharing your story.

Good luck to your husband with his treatments. Glad he is doing well. It sounds like his doctor is being very thorough, and it always to lean in that direction rather than leaving any stone unturned, especially with such a young person.

My mom was diagnosed with squamous cell at the same time she was diagnosed with breast cancer (at age 78), right in midst of the aftermath of a hurricane that struck hard here.

Breast cancer was dealt with first. But her squamous cell was on one of her legs. There was no spread to lymph nodes from either cancer, very lucky.

Mom walked outside for years around a track with her friends and I suspect sun exposure over a fairly long lifetime along with thinning skin (she bruises very easily) contributed to her skin cancer. We even thought she just had bruised herself and that it was taking too long to heal. The dermatologist knew immediately what it was, sent her to a dermatological surgical specialist who used the Moh's method to remove it and review the pathology at the same time. Got it in one surgery. I was impressed with the science and the expertise of both dermatologists.

Please check in again and let us know how your husband is doing with treatment. Congrats on being a 5 year survivor yourself! I bet it helps your husband to have your support. My mom says my history and knowledge helped her immensely when she faced breast cancer.

GAGWTA!

Thank you!

Hubby's original squamous cell came from a wound on his finger that wouldn't heal. I nagged him for years to go have something done, but the one time he got up the courage they hurt him pretty bad with the biopsy and he just refused to go back. When it went ugly, he went to the doctor. They amputated the finger that day. Our only problem with that was that no one thought to look any further than the finger at the time, and we were too dumb to realize that squamous could metastasize. It wasn't until our primary care doc called some friends a few weeks later and asked what they thought, that we found out he should be going in for PET and CAT scans. Three nodes lit up in his armpit on the PET, so they scheduled him for that surgery. All has been good since then. Or at least, relatively good considering the situation. After speaking with his oncologist, who is the most wonderful person in the world, we decided to go after it aggressively while hubs is still young and healthy.

Thanks again for the support.

Snappy, you're breaking my heart with your pup's story. We've got an aging cat who is the love of our lives and see him slowing down lately too. I'm sitting here crying right now thinking of life without the old man ..

 

[Pea-n-Me]

My kids got a snow day today. My son was sitting with me when I posted the poem, and he said, "Mom, don't read it if it makes you cry". And I was like, "It's a good cry". You know? It helps. Hugs all around.

And you are correct, Laurie. They are among the angles in our lives.

 

[snappy]

It does help Linda, you are right. Better I acknowledge feelings than deny them.

 

[snappy]

I tried to post this earlier Kachina but lost the post. I am sorry to make you think sad thoughts about life without your beloved kitty.

You know y ou can come here when that day comes.

We'll be here.

 

[luvmarypoppins]

tarheel - Hope you can get a quick appt. and that it turns out to be nothing serious. Wishing you all the best

Kachina - you and your dh have certainly been through a lot. Wishing you both all the best. Yes, you are both so young to have to go through this.

Cheryl - sorry to hear you are having the harsh side effects from the chemo. I hope they lessen over time. I am sure you will be glad when you get the fluid drained. When I had the fluid in my stomach it just burst through my belly button (sorry if TMI) Its nothing like you have to endure though. Hang in there sweetie! Hope you can find a way to get comfortable and have some sleep. Continued thoughts and prayers for you

Linda - beautiful poem that you shared

Laurie - have a wonderful visit with your db and his partner

Well we got ice and more snow, mostly ice. This is getting weary. So far they say only an inch for the week end but we shall see.

Ds appt. went as expected. A new xray which shows its slowly healing, a new cast and non weighbearing yet. The dr. said in maybe 2 weeks he will think about a boot. Sigh.

Dh cousin called to say that during the storm a huge tree fell down and blocked the driveway and pulled down the power lines so now the one tenants car is stuck but they have another one they can use. So glad dh was home yest. He called the power company and they are suppose to fix the lines by today. Then we will have to call a landscaper to remove the tree. Dh cousin said it should cost about $1,000Another reason why we hate being landlords but his cousins may cooperate to sell the property soon so that is good. Its such a long process dealing with them. Total frustration.

GAGWTA. Thinking of you all.

 

[kofslinky]

How do you guys up north deal with the impact of the low humidity on your skin? I am flaky and itchy. Sorry for too much information.

I personally use either Eucerin cream (the kind in the tub- VERY rich and thick!) for the stubborn areas, and if I just want to keep some moisture in my skin I use the Aveeno baby lotion with lavender. Both help my skin when it starts getting dry.

Thinking of everyone and sending happy thoughts to all. Snappy I'm thinking of you and your pet. I know how tough this time is. Hugs to you!!

GAGWTA!

 

[laurabelle]

GAGWTA!!!!

I know it's been forever since I popped in...I'm planning a WDW trip for my youngest's 18th birthday this summer and dropped by the DVC rent board to try to find some points and I just had to swing by and say hello!

My family has been through so much, but for the time being we're great-aside from a 2 day power outage from the last storm, brrr!

The biggest thing is that I am still NED and recently celebrated my 14th cancerversary!

I'm glad this thread is still going strong! Wishing all of you the best!

 

[snappy]

Checking in from my comfy room at the monteleone hotel in New Orleans. Trip going well. Ended up just smaller group as mom mother had a setback Friday, but we got her in to see an ortho, she on new corticosteroid regime. We now realize it would have been difficult for her to have made the trip. Dd18 and I are just here for the one night. But DH drove in to and we had a perfect meal and a neighborhood restaurant that did excellent job modifying menu items to be vegan. My brother and his partner over it. We did the ounces of the quarter afterwards.nice night, great weather, nod the hotel is both historic and luxurious.

I popped in when I saw you post Laura. Glad to learn you are well. Can you believe the longevity of this thread?

Back to the real world tomorrow as my brother flies back early in the am, but meanwhile there are meals calling me. We are still figuring out our day but might hit the zoo as the weather is the best it's been for quite a while.

GAGWTA!

 

[Pea-n-Me]

Laura, so nice to see you! Congratulations on your 14 years! Wishing you a wonderful trip!

 

[luvmarypoppins]

Laura -so nice to see you! Happy 14th cancerversary!! Have a wonderful trip with your family! I will always remember how sweet you were and sent me that card!

Laurie - enjoy your db and your trip. Glad your db is missing the snow tonight.

Yup, its snowing again now. I am so sick and weary of this. Went out with dh yest to do the grocery stock up again. Lucky him gets to go to calif. on wed.

They say more snow for us on thurs. Nothing ever melts. This has sure been a harsh winter.

Cheryl - I hope you are able to get some rest. Thinking of you

Proud mom brag - my coaching ds basketball team won and is going to the playoffs!

I need to get a sono but will wait till the weather cooperates.

GAGWTA

 

[CherylDan]

Hi ladies, checking in from my not so comfy bed in ICU......been here since Saturday. Severe diarehia and vomiting 103 temp. I've seen more doctors than I can count! Things do seems to be improving today although I was told it could be another 2 or 3 days? At this point they are just thinking some super duper infection. Unfortunately our planned beach escape to San Diego on Friday has been cancelled. At least we booked thru southwest and will be able to use the travel credits for a period of one year.

Sorry I just don't have the energy to respond to everybody, but hi Laura!

GAGWTA

 

[kofslinky]

Hi ladies, checking in from my not so comfy bed in ICU......been here since Saturday. Severe diarehia and vomiting 103 temp. I've seen more doctors than I can count! Things do seems to be improving today although I was told it could be another 2 or 3 days? At this point they are just thinking some super duper infection. Unfortunately our planned beach escape to San Diego on Friday has been cancelled. At least we booked thru southwest and will be able to use the travel credits for a period of one year.

Sorry I just don't have the energy to respond to everybody, but hi Laura!

GAGWTA

Oh my goodness! I'm glad you're starting to improve, but I hope you start getting better even quicker! Sorry your trip had to be cancelled- guess that means it's time to start planning the next trip instead! Feel better quickly! GAGWTA!

 

[fortwildernessishome]

Hi ladies, checking in from my not so comfy bed in ICU......been here since Saturday. Severe diarehia and vomiting 103 temp. I've seen more doctors than I can count! Things do seems to be improving today although I was told it could be another 2 or 3 days? At this point they are just thinking some super duper infection. Unfortunately our planned beach escape to San Diego on Friday has been cancelled. At least we booked thru southwest and will be able to use the travel credits for a period of one year.

Sorry I just don't have the energy to respond to everybody, but hi Laura!

GAGWTA

I am truly, truly sorry to read this.........

I am sending many good thoughts your way for a speedy recovery.

I had something similar happen to me 1 1/2 weeks after my last cancer surgery. It was bad and nothing they did could control the vomiting. After over 24 hours of that, they put this tube up my nose, that went down the back of my throat into my stomach. (not sure what it is called!) That finally began to settle things down. The Drs. were sure that I had some type of blockage, but all scans came back fine. I was in the hospital for five days and they never found a cause for it.

It was so dreadful and the sickest I have ever been in my entire life. I cringed when I read your post.

Again, I hope you are on the road to recovery soon and will be able to take that get-away!

 

[Feralpeg]

Cheryl, I'm really sorry to hear your feeling so poorly. Hang in there! I'll be praying for and thinking of you!

 

[GaSleepingBeautyFan]

Big Hugs to everyone who needs one - and even if you don't because sometimes it's just nice to get a hug.

I received good news today. I finally received the results of my genetics test and I'm BRCA negative.
I've always thought I was going to be positive since one of my sisters is but nope.

I still haven't been able to start having saline put into my tissue expanders. There has been some fluid build up on one side so the doc has had to pull that out each time I go in for a checkup.

I've been slowly putting together our Disney World plans but not knowing what the Middle School band plans are yet means I can't finalize anything.
And these ice storms are messing up High School Graduation. It's been a moving target which doesn't make my son happy and adds to planning complications.

But I did book us at POR for a few days which I love and at AKL Savannah View for the first time for a few days while the discounts are available. I can always adjust the dates later.

GAGWTA,

 

[Pea-n-Me]

Cheryl