Dis Breast Cancer Survivors Part IV - GAGWTA

[luvmarypoppins]

Linda - glad your furbaby is better

Sha - you are one busy lady!

minnie - glad your moms condo got sold. Stinks about the loss though. We are going to put our 8 acres in Middlesex Cty. up for sale again, maybe after New Years or sooner, depending on how ds cousins cooperate with us. I want to be over this too. Its been years.

Well dh is back and ran off to work. Ate a quick lunch with him. Such is life.

Laurie - yes I forgot to mention about ds meeting.

The whole time I was driving there I told ds I couldnt believe he did not die during this whole incident, others have said the same. God was watching out for him for sure. I felt like I was on one of those tv shows when we were there at times. But that phase is over and one and turned out well , PTL. Now onto other stuff., lots more paperwork, classes etc. I think ds will be able to drive in the spring but only to school or work.

GAGWTA

 

[Feralpeg]

Well, I guess I am destined to deal with this forever. It has been 30 years since my mastectomy. I had reconstructive surgery about six months after the surgery. Everything was great for about ten years and then, I began having a lot of pain from my implant. My doctor told me it was scar tissue. I had done all the things they tell you to keep the scar tissue at bay, but it is just a matter of time before it builds up. Even though it really bothered me, I stuck it out until about five years ago. At that time, my implant ruptured. It was silicone and had to come out.

I had the implant removed. Because I was 55 years old and because the doctor couldn't tell me that I wouldn't have the same issue again, I chose to not have another implant put in. For about the first year, everything was great. After that, scar tissue began to build up close to my armpit. The doctor told me it is because of the muscle there. Every time I move my arm, the chest muscle moves and over time, the scar tissue builds. Now, it is a huge lump extending from near my armpit to the middle of my left chest. It drives me crazy. It itches terribly. I put lotion on it, but it doesn't help a great deal. Now, I must decide whether to have surgery again or not. He can go in and remove the build up of scar tissue, but it will be a stop gap measure. It will build again over time.

Don't get me wrong. I am very lucky to be here 30 years after breast cancer. I am just tired of dealing with this.

 

[Sha]

It seems that way LMP. I am working with a trainer 2 mornings a week and working to 3 classes in the evening to work out. Matter of fact, I cut my foot a little last night in one class. Thinking I should update my Tetinus shot. Then work cuts into life too LOL

I learned last night that 2 of our cousins died recently. The father died this past Sunday. I did ask cause, but thinking cancer. One of his son's who was battling cancer also died but I dont know when other than recent. We have a LOT of cancer in my moms family.

Got to make those lists.

My sister is now working in Montana as a travel nurse. She is there for 8 weeks.

Feralpeg.... 30 years! Congrats. Sorry about the issue with scar tissue though.

NHAnn like Lauire said, Avery is such a brave fighter. And another birthday headed his way!!! I think there is a Making Strides event here but may be the weekend Laurie and I (and other team members are walking in NOLA).

guess I better get ready for work

 

[snappy]

Glad things are working out for your DS, LMP. He is lucky to have you and your DH to support him.

Feralpeg, I am sorry to hear you continue to suffer issues from the complications of recontruction. It must be frustrating to know that the surgery to remove the scar tissue will only have to be repeated. Is it a breast surgeon or the plastic surgeon who does this surgery? I can't imagine how uncomfortable the scar tissue in this area must be, in the way and itching so badly. I hope you can make the right decision on surgery and go forward.

30 years is a great accomplishment. Keep on trucking.

Sha, you are a whirlwind. I got off my schedule last week since we were stuck in the house. this week I have a cold so I can't do it. Hoping to feel better by tomorrow to start up again.

Going with my mom today to talk about whether to have surgery for her prolapsed uterus and bladder. At 82 it is a difficult call. She is using something to help but having trouble getting the device out. Mom is on again off again on the surgery. Our internist (she and I see the same female internist) recommended against surgery, the GYN who will do the surgery recommends to do the surgery.

She can't wait too much longer. I dread the side effects of the surgery as she suffers from gastro issues, as well as worry about the wisdom of having anesthesia for a somewhat elective surgery.

Trying to stay neutral and just go with her to hear what the GYN has to say.

I need a chill pill but don't have any!

DS has power, his employer located his cell phone, and he is back in business!

Good news!

Trying to get excited about Food and Wine and now worrying whether DH will really be able to come with us. We will see.

 

[MerryPoppins]

Glad to see Laurie is okay. Following Avery's fight. Still having posting issues.

 

[Sha]

Feels like a whirlwind hit me sometimes. From the looks of my surroundings you would think so too. Booked a room for my friend Nancy and I for the walk. Staying at a Hilton in New Orleans. This will allow some play time after the walk.

no workout tonight. Im exhausted. I know I havent been drinking my water like I should. So going to have a glass or two. Join me?

 

[Sha]

I would like first and last names sent to me for something I am doing for the walk in October. I have Laurie, Mellisa, Linda (think I have last spelled right without an "e" on the end?), our Lisa, but so many others I don't. If I don't end up with it, its okay... just will change my plan a little.

thank you in advance

 

[minijeanie]

Well, I guess I am destined to deal with this forever. It has been 30 years since my mastectomy. I had reconstructive surgery about six months after the surgery. Everything was great for about ten years and then, I began having a lot of pain from my implant. My doctor told me it was scar tissue. I had done all the things they tell you to keep the scar tissue at bay, but it is just a matter of time before it builds up. Even though it really bothered me, I stuck it out until about five years ago. At that time, my implant ruptured. It was silicone and had to come out.

I had the implant removed. Because I was 55 years old and because the doctor couldn't tell me that I wouldn't have the same issue again, I chose to not have another implant put in. For about the first year, everything was great. After that, scar tissue began to build up close to my armpit. The doctor told me it is because of the muscle there. Every time I move my arm, the chest muscle moves and over time, the scar tissue builds. Now, it is a huge lump extending from near my armpit to the middle of my left chest. It drives me crazy. It itches terribly. I put lotion on it, but it doesn't help a great deal. Now, I must decide whether to have surgery again or not. He can go in and remove the build up of scar tissue, but it will be a stop gap measure. It will build again over time.

Don't get me wrong. I am very lucky to be here 30 years after breast cancer. I am just tired of dealing with this.

I don't blame you one bit. I would have the surgery. There are so many advances in 30 years and who knows this might solve all your problems. There is no reason to be miserable and itchy. You have suffered enough!

 

[snappy]

Sha are you going to be at the Hilton at the foot of Canal across from the casino? Never stayed there but there is a great seafood restaurant there, called Dragos. Cindy and I ate there back in April. The chargrilled oysters are amazing. That is one of their signature offerings.

Cindy's house is directly across the river by ferry from that Hilton. Make it easy for us to get together for the race and fun afterwards.

Is it just you and Nancy staying at the Hilton?

 

[snappy]

Been suffering from a cold/sinus infection since Monday. Mucinex and Airborne are my friends. Not the flu but I was achy so I have take a lot of long soaks in my deep tub in my bathroom. I did force myself to move around in the after noon and do laundry and straighten up a little.

Hoping to drag myself into the gym today. Did not go to the gym all last week with the storm stuff. The trainer i am working on started texting me yesterdy trying to get me to work through it. I refused, as I am coughing and sneezing way too much and would no doubt infect everything.

I actually stayed home from work yesterday which i never do to try and rest and kick the cold to the curb.

Hoping it worked. I was bored hanging in bed yesterday in the morning. Snappy (my ancient pup) was over the moon. and she proceeded to follow me around every time I went from the bed to the laundry room to handle a load.I think she mostly snoozes during the day so she was tired last night.

Way too hot to walk her right now, but we are supposed to get a "cool" front Saturday which will bring the night time temps to 60, and highs down in the 80's. Snappy will get her walks this weekend!.

Linda, hope your pooch is completely over her rough spot!

GAGWTA!

 

[Dancind]

Glad to hear the worst of Isaac is over for our southern friends here. Did not like the news on that one.

LMP, I know your husband's travel is a stressor, and I feel sorry for him too! What a nightmare.

Sha, I had a dream last night that I was at the beginning of a 5k with a friend. Since I am currently working up to walking 1 1/2 miles on my treadmill, guess it was more of a nightmare. Hooray for you!

Feralpeg, did not know you went through this at age 30, you are really a long term survivor. I have issues similar to yours without having had reconstruction. Pretty sure if I decide in the future to have more surgery, I will find another surgeon. But right now my problem is finding something comfortable enough to wear in the parks all day when we go to WDW in early November. I may be taking some t-shirts and my vest with the foob pinned inside.

Snappy, hope all is well with your DH for F&W. I've done it one my own a few times, much prefer it with DH. He's debating on this trip since he has a nice size job that has a time crunch, a kitchen remodel. It might be just a Mom/daughter trip. Which isn't so bad either.

DD moved out last week, to her first apartment with a roommate. She is not moving to Boston any more, in fact has a new boyfriend that lives here. She is very happy and I really hope it lasts. We say she didn't really move, she left. As in she left a lot of stuff here, including a snake in a tank.

 

[luvmarypoppins]

Peggy - I think you should consider the surgery. It takes a toll on you just to deal with the side effects of this every day. (discomfort etc) Wishing you all the best. How is Kendall?

Laurie - hope you are feeling better

smiley - Hoping your onc. visit went well and that the meeting for your dh went well too.

Diana - I would ask your dd to take the snake too! I wish our oldest ds24 would move out. But he is saving as much as he can and wants to put a down payment on a condo probably. He is making good progress though.

I am wondering about PatsMom and Elizabeths cousin.

Got my blood test today. Busy running around with dh. Waiting for him to finish his nap (I actually think its the jet lag catch up) and hopefully go to the grocery store but they are supposedly having a tornado warning around here?? Hmm, went through that before in Texas. We shall see. I think dh leaves again this Thurs. I was running F and W stuff with him. We shall see. Its $$.

GAGWTA

 

[smiley_face2]

Hey there ladies! Got good news on Friday, looks like they got all the cancer cells after the last surgery in August 2011, and all the radiation. No sign of anything anywhere so for now I am cancer free! Now comes the getting through the next few years (I hope) of wondering and worrying at least some of the time.
Have lot's of work to do on my teeth now, but am happy I have teeth to work on! lol....
I saw the tornado think down in New York, I really hope no one here was affected by it!!
GAGWTA

 

[snappy]

Awesome news, Smilie, congrats!

LMP, thanks, I am feeling better. Did the tornado affect your area?

Dancind, I bet you miss your DD. At least she did not move to Boston.

It is hard to let go, believe me, I am no expert. I think one of the reasons I got sick last week was worrying about how DS24 was doing during Isaac when he lost his cell phone the day before.

He was just fine and found ways to call us.


Dd16 just got back from Apple store replacing the iphone 4 I bought her in June. It just stopped working. I was afraid they would not replace it for free even though it was under warranty. DD16 handled it all by herself, they gave her a new one. I guess they really don't need me much anymore.

Hey wait that is a good thing.

 

[Feralpeg]

Peggy - I think you should consider the surgery. It takes a toll on you just to deal with the side effects of this every day. (discomfort etc) Wishing you all the best. How is Kendall?


GAGWTA

Thanks, everyone! I am thinking about having the surgery. I may wait until the first of the year. I have a lot going on through the holidays...this isn't one of them. lol.

luvmarypoppins, Kendall is doing great. She just returned from a year in England. She completed her Masters in Medieval History. So glad to have her home!

 

[Sha]

Sha are you going to be at the Hilton at the foot of Canal across from the casino? Never stayed there but there is a great seafood restaurant there, called Dragos. Cindy and I ate there back in April. The chargrilled oysters are amazing. That is one of their signature offerings.

Cindy's house is directly across the river by ferry from that Hilton. Make it easy for us to get together for the race and fun afterwards.

Is it just you and Nancy staying at the Hilton?

Laurie I went with the other Hilton in the French Quarter. It was a little less in cost. And thought that would be good since I want to actually see the French Quarter vs drinking it. It is just us, but my friend Danielle may be crashing a night there too.

Dancind that 1.5. miles you are halfway there!!! No nightmare... its possible.

Smiley!!! Congrats!!!

 

[snappy]

Love the quarter in the fall. Should be fun.

Peg, a year in England studying, how very fun. Let us know what you decide on the surgery.

It is awfully nice today here weather wise, and it is making me very happy. It is 64 degrees at 8:40 in the morning-this never happens. I am doing my favorite things this morning and not going to try to do any big projects, just enjoy the absence of humidity for a change.

I bought a new Kiplinger suitcase for our trip. Gotta love clearance at TJ Max.

Also found some wide toe light weight New Balance shoes that I am breaking in walking Snappy for the Food and Wine trip and the RFTC in New Orleans.

GAGWTA!

 

[Dancind]

Smiley, that is awesome news! NED is a wonderful place to be.

I'm a little nervous, supposed to see my oncologist next week. Guess I will call and ask if she still wants to see if I'm not taking the Femara.

Snappy, my last sneaker purchase was some light weight Skecher runners in a pretty coral color. I think the light weight ones are better for your feet than the heavy ortho type shoes. I never can get used to those.

I do miss my DD, but she comes by often. I record Dr. Who for her on Saturday nights! The cat misses her too. She is supposed to be putting the snake on Craigslist, and we will still have hope she will get rid of more stuff in her room. False hope, maybe.

 

[snappy]

My DD16 is a big Dr Who fan. Even has a Dr Who cell phone case.

I sadly have a lot of DD22's and DS24's belongings.

But no snakes!!!

 

[luvmarypoppins]

smiley - Congrats on the great news

Diana - hope your onc. visit goes well

Laurie - I guess your dd was exposed to all the 9-11 stuff in the city yest.

Well yest, 9-11 was all on the news here. We did lose 3 people in our town. One guy from our church was a firefighter and was one of the last ones to be found alive. I dont remember the whole story. His wife told us to never talk to him about it. He has such a hard time emotionally. I think they lost men from his station. He is now retired and lives in Penn. Last I saw him his lungs were terrible and he looked terrible. I know he did recovery stuff so I am sure it has affected him healthwise as well. Such a sad time.

Well I am getting dh clothes washed again. This is taking a toll on me. He now says he will have to go out west once a week every month but I should not complain because its not China. For at least the nexgt 2 years!
We picked up ds from the train station. It will be ok for me to do myself when dh is gone. The road is bright and not busy so it will be ok for my eyes etc. There were 2 cop cars there last night. Guess with the 9-11 stuff they were cautious.

Got my blood test but havent heard from my gp. That is normal with them. Never hear from them or weeks later etc.

I am only going there for a flu shot in the future.

The bone scan and the dentist are on my needs to get done list.

Ds3 starts going to the hospital on Friday, so we shall see. He is excited.

I will be cooking on sat. for the sun. picnic. Oh what fun!

GAGWTA