Alright, everybody... I had my appointment yesterday with the oncologist. First, I'd like to say that I really like her a lot. She sat down and explained a lot to me, that nobody else would. My appointment lasted 1 1/2 hours, because she went through everything for me. Whatever I wasn't sure of due to medical jargon, she explained to me. She even wrote down notes in a book for me, so I could just sit and listen. So, here's what we have so far... A schedule:
12/28: Flu shot and pneumonia vaccine
12/29: Orange Park Medical Center for some scan (I forget what it was)
1/3: Bloodwork, followed by a training session for Tim and I with a nurse about chemo, how to care for yourself, etc.
1/4: Start Adriamycin and Cysoxan (chemo meds), which I will take once every 14 days for 2 months.
The oncologist is still trying to decide if she wants to put me on Herceptin or not. She says that they've had a lot of positive results with it, but it's usually reserved for people whose cancer has gotten into their lymph nodes. However, mine was rather agressive, and even though we caught it in time, and she is still considering it. If I do have to do Herceptin, it'll be given every 3 weeks for 1 year.
The side effects of the Chemo include hair loss, urine turnes red (because the meds are red), lowered white blood cells (risk of infection), lowered red blood cells (risk of anemia), and lowered platelets. So, blood work will be done weekly to keep track of those things. It also carries a 1-2% chance of heart problems, so there will also be scans on my heart regularly.
According to the oncologist, I'm an "anomoly." Great. How do I react to that? It's so unusual to find someone my age with breast cancer, apparently. Which makes it more difficult for me, because I want a support group full of people my age. How did it affect their families, their children, their marriages, their jobs, their health? Grrrr....
Anyways, I have markers for estrogen, so after chemo, I'll be on Tamoxifen, which basically puts my body through the symptoms of menopause. These are pills that have to be taken daily for 5 years.
Also, I have another appointment in March with my radiologist to figure out when that will all get started. So, while I'm not full of great news, at least it is news. I'm moving in a forward direction, which is better than I was, when I was just sitting around waiting on the insurance company.
Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and wishing you a Happy and very Health New Year for you and your families. Love, ~Brenda
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Cool website!
Check out this really neat website that I found. You can ask any kinds of questions or start discussions, and read other people's questions, participate in discussions, and so on. What's pretty neat, too, is that they actually pay you to do this! Don't get me wrong, I'm not gonna get rich or anything, because I only made about $1.50 in a day, but it's fun to just check out different discussions and take part in them. It makes you think... and it can also help you find answers to things that you've wondered but didn't know. Anyways, here it is, if you're interested!
http://www.mylot.com/?ref=jeepstergirl
Love, ~B
http://www.mylot.com/?ref=jeepstergirl
Love, ~B
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Have an appointment
Here is a picture of our "Florida Family." You all know Tim and I, and there's Ashleigh and Carley. Tammy (My best friend) is next to me, and her daughter, Brittany, and her husband, Kevin, is standing. We all went out to eat on Sunday, and had this picture taken. Their other daughter, Jessica is the only one missing from the picture. But, they live 9/10 of a mile away, and Carley even calls them "Aunt Tammy" and "Uncle Kevin." I can't even begin to imagine where I'd be without the love and support of these people. They are the most loving, caring people that I know.
Ok, so anyways, I finally got the whole oncologist thing figured out. Apparently, Tricare DID send my referrel, but it had an incorrect phone number on it. So, the doctor's office kept trying to call me and leave me messages but it wasn't actually ME, apparently. So, I when I had called tricare, the lady was looking in the computer under pending referrals, instead of all of my referrals, and so I was told that it wasn't even in the computer. So, I called my dr. on base, who called the breast care manager/nurse at the base hospital, who called my surgeon at Shand's, who called my radiologist at Shand's, who got the oncologist the correct phone number and finally called me yesterday... Geez! lol.
So, long story short.... I have an appointment on the afternoon of December 27th. That appointment is when I find out all about the cycles of chemo I'll be doing, and so on. Then, they'll set me up to get started with the actual drugs. Lucky me! (not) But, it's something that I need to do, weather I want to or not, and I know that I have family that will help Tim and I out when/if we need it. My Mom is the first on my list to help out. She's been just patiently waiting for me to give her the "go ahead" to get time off work and come down here to help out. I know Carley's really excited to see her! She talks about her all the time.
Anyways, not much else going on. Just working on the house. The stairs are in and the second story has been started!!! It's so cool. I'm very excited about all of that. Otherwise, not much else going on.
I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas! Happy Holidays from our family to all of yours!
Love, ~Brenda
Ok, so anyways, I finally got the whole oncologist thing figured out. Apparently, Tricare DID send my referrel, but it had an incorrect phone number on it. So, the doctor's office kept trying to call me and leave me messages but it wasn't actually ME, apparently. So, I when I had called tricare, the lady was looking in the computer under pending referrals, instead of all of my referrals, and so I was told that it wasn't even in the computer. So, I called my dr. on base, who called the breast care manager/nurse at the base hospital, who called my surgeon at Shand's, who called my radiologist at Shand's, who got the oncologist the correct phone number and finally called me yesterday... Geez! lol.
So, long story short.... I have an appointment on the afternoon of December 27th. That appointment is when I find out all about the cycles of chemo I'll be doing, and so on. Then, they'll set me up to get started with the actual drugs. Lucky me! (not) But, it's something that I need to do, weather I want to or not, and I know that I have family that will help Tim and I out when/if we need it. My Mom is the first on my list to help out. She's been just patiently waiting for me to give her the "go ahead" to get time off work and come down here to help out. I know Carley's really excited to see her! She talks about her all the time.
Anyways, not much else going on. Just working on the house. The stairs are in and the second story has been started!!! It's so cool. I'm very excited about all of that. Otherwise, not much else going on.
I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas! Happy Holidays from our family to all of yours!
Love, ~Brenda
Thursday, December 14, 2006
It's been a while...
Hey, everyone! Sorry I haven't posted anything in a while. We've been super-busy, and there hasn't really been any new news with my chemo. I am dealing with Tri-Care again (anyone surprised?) trying to get the referral from them just so I can MEET my chemo doctor, let alone start treatments! I'm supposed to be starting them soon, from what I understand. I guess we'll see.
Meanwhile, I'm attempting to find an online job that pays better than what I'm doing now, and that I can do from home. It'll be a lot better when I'm not feeling that great some days. Besides, since I quit smoking, the second-had smoke really bothers me when I'm working and the next morning. Also, I'm not making enough money being a bartender, and between what little I make, Christmas coming up, and the construction on the house... well, let's just say it's not pretty. Unfortunately, Tim and I probably won't be spending too much money on anyone this year other than the girls. Sorry in advance!
I guess that's about it for now. I did go and get my hair cut short... and it looks cute! I had some friends go with me and have two more friends that want to do it, too! Thanks to Tammy, Brittany and Jessica for going with me to get my hair cut! I got a style that CAN go into a mohawk, but isn't like that every day. Jannian and Stephen, let me know if you're still interested in hair cuts! I'll send you pictures of us.
Well, love and hugs to everyone this holiday season! I hope you're all doing well! Love, ~Brenda
Meanwhile, I'm attempting to find an online job that pays better than what I'm doing now, and that I can do from home. It'll be a lot better when I'm not feeling that great some days. Besides, since I quit smoking, the second-had smoke really bothers me when I'm working and the next morning. Also, I'm not making enough money being a bartender, and between what little I make, Christmas coming up, and the construction on the house... well, let's just say it's not pretty. Unfortunately, Tim and I probably won't be spending too much money on anyone this year other than the girls. Sorry in advance!
I guess that's about it for now. I did go and get my hair cut short... and it looks cute! I had some friends go with me and have two more friends that want to do it, too! Thanks to Tammy, Brittany and Jessica for going with me to get my hair cut! I got a style that CAN go into a mohawk, but isn't like that every day. Jannian and Stephen, let me know if you're still interested in hair cuts! I'll send you pictures of us.
Well, love and hugs to everyone this holiday season! I hope you're all doing well! Love, ~Brenda
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Our 9th Anniversary
Well, it's been a busy week in the Austin household! Tim has several household projects going at once. He has built a wall to create a formal foyer, is digging a well to water the lawn with, in order to save money on our utility bill, and has been landscaping. On top of that, we are moving forward with the plans to build another bedroom and bath upstairs. Unfortunately, our engineer friend that is working on that project seems to be dragging his feet. I was hoping to have that project well on it's way by now, and finished before Christmas, and they haven't even started it yet! Grrrr.... Oh, and we haven't even gotten any of our Christmas decorations out yet!
Besides the chaos of living with constant construction, I have also been moving forward with my doctor's appointments. I had my post-surgery check-up on Tuesday, and everything came out fine. There was no new news from pathology, which is good! I am unhappy with how my breast is healing because I have a large divit removed, and the "girls" are definately not a matching set anymore. This bothers me probably more than it should. Tim says we'll just worry about reconstruction later if need be. That still doesn't make me less angry.... although I have nobody to really be angry at. The surgeon? No, because he had to take it all out. Me? No, because it's not my fault that I got breast cancer. Who else? Really, it's just the nature of the beast. I know that, but I don't have to like it.
I also went to see my Radiologist on Tuesday. She had some interesting news for me. She is the doctor that I really like. She is clear, takes her time explaining things, and just gives me an overall comfortable feeling. But, she had some surprising news for me. Apparently, they are going to do Chemo before doing radiation. I was expecting it to be the other way around, since I haven't even spoken to the doctor that does Chemo yet. But, she said that they usually start Chemo 3-4 weeks after surgery. So, let's do the math.... My surgery was the day before Thanksgiving, so that would put my first treatment right around Christmas. Merry Christmas to me.....
So, from what I understand, it takes a few weeks before you start feeling really crappy, so my Mom wants to visit and help out. I'm looking at having her come down and stay sometime after the new year. That way, she won't have to deal with the holiday travelers and by that time I will be feeling pretty crappy and will be needing some assistance. It'll be nice to see her again, too. I hate that it's under these circumstances. Plus, maybe the upstairs will be finished by the time she gets here, and she'll have her own place to stay! That would be nice. We'll see, though. That project is taking too long.
Meanwhile, on a lighter note.... Tim and I celebrated our 9th wedding anniversary last night. It was very nice. For those of you that have known us for a long time.... it's a miracle that we are where we are right now. Because of all the crap we went through, we've grown up a lot, and have grown a lot closer. He is truely my best friend and I couldn't ask for anyone better. So, we went out to Carraba's for dinner, and enjoyed a wonderful meal including champagne and chocolate cake (heaven) for dessert. We went home stuffed to the gills, happy, and exhausted. lol! The years must be catching up to us. That's ok, though. I can't think of anyone else I'd rather be spending my life with!
Oh, and one final note.... my last cigarette was on November 18th. Does that make me an official quitter yet??? lol! Anyways, I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Love, ~Brenda
Besides the chaos of living with constant construction, I have also been moving forward with my doctor's appointments. I had my post-surgery check-up on Tuesday, and everything came out fine. There was no new news from pathology, which is good! I am unhappy with how my breast is healing because I have a large divit removed, and the "girls" are definately not a matching set anymore. This bothers me probably more than it should. Tim says we'll just worry about reconstruction later if need be. That still doesn't make me less angry.... although I have nobody to really be angry at. The surgeon? No, because he had to take it all out. Me? No, because it's not my fault that I got breast cancer. Who else? Really, it's just the nature of the beast. I know that, but I don't have to like it.
I also went to see my Radiologist on Tuesday. She had some interesting news for me. She is the doctor that I really like. She is clear, takes her time explaining things, and just gives me an overall comfortable feeling. But, she had some surprising news for me. Apparently, they are going to do Chemo before doing radiation. I was expecting it to be the other way around, since I haven't even spoken to the doctor that does Chemo yet. But, she said that they usually start Chemo 3-4 weeks after surgery. So, let's do the math.... My surgery was the day before Thanksgiving, so that would put my first treatment right around Christmas. Merry Christmas to me.....
So, from what I understand, it takes a few weeks before you start feeling really crappy, so my Mom wants to visit and help out. I'm looking at having her come down and stay sometime after the new year. That way, she won't have to deal with the holiday travelers and by that time I will be feeling pretty crappy and will be needing some assistance. It'll be nice to see her again, too. I hate that it's under these circumstances. Plus, maybe the upstairs will be finished by the time she gets here, and she'll have her own place to stay! That would be nice. We'll see, though. That project is taking too long.
Meanwhile, on a lighter note.... Tim and I celebrated our 9th wedding anniversary last night. It was very nice. For those of you that have known us for a long time.... it's a miracle that we are where we are right now. Because of all the crap we went through, we've grown up a lot, and have grown a lot closer. He is truely my best friend and I couldn't ask for anyone better. So, we went out to Carraba's for dinner, and enjoyed a wonderful meal including champagne and chocolate cake (heaven) for dessert. We went home stuffed to the gills, happy, and exhausted. lol! The years must be catching up to us. That's ok, though. I can't think of anyone else I'd rather be spending my life with!
Oh, and one final note.... my last cigarette was on November 18th. Does that make me an official quitter yet??? lol! Anyways, I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Love, ~Brenda
Saturday, November 25, 2006
I'm Thankful
Things I'm Thankful for...
I sat down for about a 1/2 hour today and tried to think of as many things as I could to be thankful for in my life. I know that there is a LOT more that I could list, but this is what I got in only 30 minutes. It's nice to sit down and reflect on what you've done and where you've been. Sometimes, the things that don't seem great at the time turn out to be a blessing in the long run, too. Love, ~Brenda
Being a Mom, Wife, Aunt, Friend.
Paris in the summertime
Motorcycle rallies in Portugal
An breast cancer surviving aunt
My daughter’s face at Chuck E. Cheese’s
Having a yellow jeep
Friends that feel like family
Swimming in the Dead Sea
Quitting Smoking
Horseback riding
Campfires, hot dogs and marshmallows
Tire swings
My husband; my rock
Living with the constant excuse of drywall dust
A husband that has several projects going at once
The love of my Dog and my Cat
Best friends: Jannian, Tammy K., Sylvia, Rachele, and Tammy B.
Scoops and Salsa Fresca from Sam’s
Schwan’s Fudge Ripple ice cream
Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”
Loud music coming from Ash’s room
The smell of Play Dough
Cell phones and digital cameras
Sleeping in and afternoon naps
Double stuff Oreo’s and milk
Warm rain and rainbows
Fresh paint
Vegetables of all kinds
Pie: apple, chocolate, pumpkin, key lime….
A plastic surgeon in Spain
Coming home just as the sun comes up
An ice cold beer
Giggling with my kids
Rock-n-Roll
Questions from children
Tim’s tiny, gentle kisses along my spine
Tim trying to teach me to ski
Carley trying to “read” a map on the Paris subway
Ash trying to burn down the Eiffel Tower
Tim almost burning down our house
Visiting the Louve and seeing the Mona Lisa for the first time.
Riding a camel in Dubai
Being a strong, beautiful, capable woman
Seeing the “Phantom of the Opera” with my Mom in Detroit
Trips to Canada and Niagara Falls with my Mom
Summers spent on the farm
My hat and scarf collection
Nail polish and make up on my “ugly” days
“The Princess Bride”
Relatives planning to visit
Letters from my Grandma!
Living in Florida
Christmas lights on palm trees
Halloween and costumes
Beautiful gowns for the annual Christmas party
Pittsburgh Steelers
University of Michigan Wolverines
Detroit Red Wings
My fuzzy, orange blanket
Comfort food
Pasta
The smell of preschool and kindergarten classrooms: juice, crayons, and paste
Macaroni art and jewelry
Bacon cheeseburgers from Wendy’s
Fall colors in Michigan
Growing up with an amazing father!!!
Dried roses, old photographs, strands of pearls
A husband who always want6s to hold my hand, draws me baths, and makes me hot toddies
French Onion soup
Tulips, lilies and roses
Caterpillars
The Statue of Liberty, Old Glory, nd the US Military
Helicopter rides out of Naples
10 classes until graduation
The word searches and comics in the Sunday paper
Football and Hockey seasons
Reading
Shel Silverstine poems
Public library cards
Sticky little fingers holding my hand
Spilled milk
Blissful silence
That there was no room in the inn
Crab legs and lemon butter
Seeing “Stomp” twice
Friends that live only 9/10 of a mile away
“Amazing Grace”
Church bells
Sushi
That the vow, “in sickness and in health” really means something
Forgiveness
Girl Scout cookies: Thin Mints and Samoa’s
Visiting the Ocean and the smell of Salt Water
Disney World
Cedar Point and roller coasters
6th grade Toronto trip
Bedtime prayers
My brother’s Kermit the Frog imitations from when we were kids
7 years in the Navy and 2 Med cruises
Taking the train from Seville, Spain to Paris, France
That the tomb was empty
Sunshine
Muscle shirts
Braces
Christmas lights
I sat down for about a 1/2 hour today and tried to think of as many things as I could to be thankful for in my life. I know that there is a LOT more that I could list, but this is what I got in only 30 minutes. It's nice to sit down and reflect on what you've done and where you've been. Sometimes, the things that don't seem great at the time turn out to be a blessing in the long run, too. Love, ~Brenda
Being a Mom, Wife, Aunt, Friend.
Paris in the summertime
Motorcycle rallies in Portugal
An breast cancer surviving aunt
My daughter’s face at Chuck E. Cheese’s
Having a yellow jeep
Friends that feel like family
Swimming in the Dead Sea
Quitting Smoking
Horseback riding
Campfires, hot dogs and marshmallows
Tire swings
My husband; my rock
Living with the constant excuse of drywall dust
A husband that has several projects going at once
The love of my Dog and my Cat
Best friends: Jannian, Tammy K., Sylvia, Rachele, and Tammy B.
Scoops and Salsa Fresca from Sam’s
Schwan’s Fudge Ripple ice cream
Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”
Loud music coming from Ash’s room
The smell of Play Dough
Cell phones and digital cameras
Sleeping in and afternoon naps
Double stuff Oreo’s and milk
Warm rain and rainbows
Fresh paint
Vegetables of all kinds
Pie: apple, chocolate, pumpkin, key lime….
A plastic surgeon in Spain
Coming home just as the sun comes up
An ice cold beer
Giggling with my kids
Rock-n-Roll
Questions from children
Tim’s tiny, gentle kisses along my spine
Tim trying to teach me to ski
Carley trying to “read” a map on the Paris subway
Ash trying to burn down the Eiffel Tower
Tim almost burning down our house
Visiting the Louve and seeing the Mona Lisa for the first time.
Riding a camel in Dubai
Being a strong, beautiful, capable woman
Seeing the “Phantom of the Opera” with my Mom in Detroit
Trips to Canada and Niagara Falls with my Mom
Summers spent on the farm
My hat and scarf collection
Nail polish and make up on my “ugly” days
“The Princess Bride”
Relatives planning to visit
Letters from my Grandma!
Living in Florida
Christmas lights on palm trees
Halloween and costumes
Beautiful gowns for the annual Christmas party
Pittsburgh Steelers
University of Michigan Wolverines
Detroit Red Wings
My fuzzy, orange blanket
Comfort food
Pasta
The smell of preschool and kindergarten classrooms: juice, crayons, and paste
Macaroni art and jewelry
Bacon cheeseburgers from Wendy’s
Fall colors in Michigan
Growing up with an amazing father!!!
Dried roses, old photographs, strands of pearls
A husband who always want6s to hold my hand, draws me baths, and makes me hot toddies
French Onion soup
Tulips, lilies and roses
Caterpillars
The Statue of Liberty, Old Glory, nd the US Military
Helicopter rides out of Naples
10 classes until graduation
The word searches and comics in the Sunday paper
Football and Hockey seasons
Reading
Shel Silverstine poems
Public library cards
Sticky little fingers holding my hand
Spilled milk
Blissful silence
That there was no room in the inn
Crab legs and lemon butter
Seeing “Stomp” twice
Friends that live only 9/10 of a mile away
“Amazing Grace”
Church bells
Sushi
That the vow, “in sickness and in health” really means something
Forgiveness
Girl Scout cookies: Thin Mints and Samoa’s
Visiting the Ocean and the smell of Salt Water
Disney World
Cedar Point and roller coasters
6th grade Toronto trip
Bedtime prayers
My brother’s Kermit the Frog imitations from when we were kids
7 years in the Navy and 2 Med cruises
Taking the train from Seville, Spain to Paris, France
That the tomb was empty
Sunshine
Muscle shirts
Braces
Christmas lights
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Happy Thanksgiving!
Hey, everyone! I hope you're all having a wonderful holiday! I got up and made cinnamon rolls (out of a can) this morning and I thought my kids were gonna attack me for them! I guess I don't make them often enough. lol.
I had my second surgery yesterday, and all seemed to go well. I was in and back out in about an hour. I spent the rest of the day in bed catching up on old episodes of Grey's Anatomy. I love that show! lol.
Today, Tim is going to fry a turkey, and then we're going to go to Kevin and Tammy's house and take it easy. This way, I don't have to cook. I am a little sore from surgery, and I'm not allowed to lift anything. Besides, I'm on drugs right now, and the dr. told me that I'm not to be driving or cooking for a couple of days.
We wanted to go to Atlanta to visit Tim's Dad and Jane today, but I don't think I'd be able to tolerate a 6-hour car ride right now, as much as I really would love to see them. So, Tom and Jane, I hope to get to see you soon... just not this weekend. Have fun at the Vols game on Saturday! I love you!
To everyone else, have a wonderful holiday! I am thankful for all of my friends and family this year, and most especially for the gift of health. I realize that I am fighting cancer, but every day is a bright, beautiful day towards the end of my battle. I am learning to cherish the NOW and not worry so much about TOMORROW. Everything has a wonderful new meaning to me. I know that having a cancer diagnosis is never good, but you wouldn't believe the way it changes your outlook on life. I do believe that there are some blessings that God ment for me to find with this. Maybe it's His little way of telling me to slow down and take my time.
Oh, and one more thing... I want to brag just a little: I have quit smoking! My last cigarette was on Saturday around noon, and I haven't had one since! I've managed to quit "cold turkey" and so far so good. I have a deep-down feeling this time that I've never had the other times I've quit: I really do feel like it's "forever" this time. I really don't need that negative part in my life, and I do want to be finished with it. So, that is my gift to myself. Sometimes you just need to do the right thing.
Ok, I guess that's it for now. Have a wonderful holiday! Love, ~Brenda
"Sometimes the best we can do when we get to the end of our rope is to just tie a knot and hang on." ~Vickie Girard
I had my second surgery yesterday, and all seemed to go well. I was in and back out in about an hour. I spent the rest of the day in bed catching up on old episodes of Grey's Anatomy. I love that show! lol.
Today, Tim is going to fry a turkey, and then we're going to go to Kevin and Tammy's house and take it easy. This way, I don't have to cook. I am a little sore from surgery, and I'm not allowed to lift anything. Besides, I'm on drugs right now, and the dr. told me that I'm not to be driving or cooking for a couple of days.
We wanted to go to Atlanta to visit Tim's Dad and Jane today, but I don't think I'd be able to tolerate a 6-hour car ride right now, as much as I really would love to see them. So, Tom and Jane, I hope to get to see you soon... just not this weekend. Have fun at the Vols game on Saturday! I love you!
To everyone else, have a wonderful holiday! I am thankful for all of my friends and family this year, and most especially for the gift of health. I realize that I am fighting cancer, but every day is a bright, beautiful day towards the end of my battle. I am learning to cherish the NOW and not worry so much about TOMORROW. Everything has a wonderful new meaning to me. I know that having a cancer diagnosis is never good, but you wouldn't believe the way it changes your outlook on life. I do believe that there are some blessings that God ment for me to find with this. Maybe it's His little way of telling me to slow down and take my time.
Oh, and one more thing... I want to brag just a little: I have quit smoking! My last cigarette was on Saturday around noon, and I haven't had one since! I've managed to quit "cold turkey" and so far so good. I have a deep-down feeling this time that I've never had the other times I've quit: I really do feel like it's "forever" this time. I really don't need that negative part in my life, and I do want to be finished with it. So, that is my gift to myself. Sometimes you just need to do the right thing.
Ok, I guess that's it for now. Have a wonderful holiday! Love, ~Brenda
"Sometimes the best we can do when we get to the end of our rope is to just tie a knot and hang on." ~Vickie Girard
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Second Surgery
Hey, Everyone! It's about 6am, and Tim and I are leaving for the hospital in a few minutes for my second surgery. It should be less invasive than the first one, since they're not messing with my nodes this time. Just wanted to wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving! I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday. Love, ~Brenda
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Getting a haircut
Ok, It has been decided...
When I start going through chemo treatments, I was planning on cutting my hair short, because it won't be as traumatic when it starts to fall out as it would be if it were longer. But then, some of my friends and I were talking and decided that we should get mohawks until my hair begins to fall out.
Brittany said that hers is going to be black with pink tips. I'm thinking of just all pink.
The way I see it, I never went through a "crazy hair" stage when I was younger, so why not do it now before it falls out? I think it'll be fun. Don't worry, I'll take plenty of pictures when the time comes!! Anyone else want to take part in supporting me with a mohawk? lol!
Love, ~B
When I start going through chemo treatments, I was planning on cutting my hair short, because it won't be as traumatic when it starts to fall out as it would be if it were longer. But then, some of my friends and I were talking and decided that we should get mohawks until my hair begins to fall out.
Brittany said that hers is going to be black with pink tips. I'm thinking of just all pink.
The way I see it, I never went through a "crazy hair" stage when I was younger, so why not do it now before it falls out? I think it'll be fun. Don't worry, I'll take plenty of pictures when the time comes!! Anyone else want to take part in supporting me with a mohawk? lol!
Love, ~B
Thursday, November 16, 2006
One Flaw in Women
One Flaw In Women
Women have strengths that amaze men.
They bear hardships and they carry burdens, but they hold happiness, love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take "no" for an answer when they believe there is a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care about you.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideas.
They give moral support to their family and friends.
Women have vital things to say and everything to give.
HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,
IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.
Women have strengths that amaze men.
They bear hardships and they carry burdens, but they hold happiness, love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take "no" for an answer when they believe there is a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care about you.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideas.
They give moral support to their family and friends.
Women have vital things to say and everything to give.
HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,
IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Update After the Weekend
Hey, everyone! Sorry I haven't been on here in a few days, but not too much was happening in my life that was worth writing about! But, let's see....
Tim was on leave all last week to help take care of me, so he had some friends over and got some landscaping done, they got the toe moulding down around the house, built a wall to create a formal foyer, and are working on the plans to build our upstairs. This is going to be really great!
Otherwise, I had a doctor's appointment yesterday, but it was no biggie. He just went over what he told me the other day, and told me how he was going to do the next surgery. That will take place the day before Thanksgiving, so looks like I won't be cooking this year! lol.
My first appointment with the radiologist is still on the 28th of November, but I don't think we'll be starting treatments at that time because of the fresh incision made before Thanksgiving.
Also, I went back to work last night. It was pretty uneventful... after all, it was a Monday. It was nice to see everyone again, though. I love my family, but sometimes you just need to see a new face.
Well, I guess that's about it for now. If I go a few days without writing, just remember:
No news is usually good news!
Love, Brenda
Tim was on leave all last week to help take care of me, so he had some friends over and got some landscaping done, they got the toe moulding down around the house, built a wall to create a formal foyer, and are working on the plans to build our upstairs. This is going to be really great!
Otherwise, I had a doctor's appointment yesterday, but it was no biggie. He just went over what he told me the other day, and told me how he was going to do the next surgery. That will take place the day before Thanksgiving, so looks like I won't be cooking this year! lol.
My first appointment with the radiologist is still on the 28th of November, but I don't think we'll be starting treatments at that time because of the fresh incision made before Thanksgiving.
Also, I went back to work last night. It was pretty uneventful... after all, it was a Monday. It was nice to see everyone again, though. I love my family, but sometimes you just need to see a new face.
Well, I guess that's about it for now. If I go a few days without writing, just remember:
No news is usually good news!
Love, Brenda
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Wednesday's Appointment
Well, I know that a lot of you have been waiting to find out what the news was at my appointment yesterday. I couldn't remember what time I had to be there, so I called first. Thank goodness I did, because come to find out, the pathology reports weren't back yet. So, he wouldn't have had any news for me. So, the appointment to look at my stitches and how I'm healing isn't until Monday now.
As far as the results, the dr. just called a little while ago. The lymph nodes came back negative for cancer.... YAY! As for the tumor itself, the invasive cancer only took up about 1cm of the tumor. It was surrounded by what they call "pre-cancer" or non-invasive. He said that it looks like they got all of it out with the exception of one area, so he wants to get back in and take more out in that area. That would also be an outpatient procedure. We're looking at getting that done before Thanksgiving, which will probably put my radiation date off a little longer.
If anyone is wondering, the results were needed for a few reasons. One is so that they could see if the cancer had indeed spread. Two was to be alble to stage the cancer. They also use this information to know how much radiation I'll need, and to get more info on the chemo that I'll be going through.
So, at my appointment on Monday, we'll discuss the results in further detail and go from there.
Otherwise, just laying low and nursing my right side. The cut under my armpit is really sore, so I have to be careful with how much I lift and so on. Otherwise, I'm feeling pretty healthy.
Hope all is well with everyone else!
Love, Brenda
As far as the results, the dr. just called a little while ago. The lymph nodes came back negative for cancer.... YAY! As for the tumor itself, the invasive cancer only took up about 1cm of the tumor. It was surrounded by what they call "pre-cancer" or non-invasive. He said that it looks like they got all of it out with the exception of one area, so he wants to get back in and take more out in that area. That would also be an outpatient procedure. We're looking at getting that done before Thanksgiving, which will probably put my radiation date off a little longer.
If anyone is wondering, the results were needed for a few reasons. One is so that they could see if the cancer had indeed spread. Two was to be alble to stage the cancer. They also use this information to know how much radiation I'll need, and to get more info on the chemo that I'll be going through.
So, at my appointment on Monday, we'll discuss the results in further detail and go from there.
Otherwise, just laying low and nursing my right side. The cut under my armpit is really sore, so I have to be careful with how much I lift and so on. Otherwise, I'm feeling pretty healthy.
Hope all is well with everyone else!
Love, Brenda
My e-card
A friend of mine sent me the most beautiful e-card today, and I had to share what it said. I wish I could have copied the picture and everything, but couldn't. Anyways, it's nice to hear what other people think of you, especially when you don't notice these qualities in yourself.
Chuck, Thank you! I appreciate your friendship!
Love, ~Brenda
Standing for what you believe in
regardless of the odds against you, and
the pressure that tears at your resistance
...is Courage.
Keeping a smile on your face when inside you
feel like dying, for the sake of supporting others
...is Strength.
Stopping at nothing and doing what's
in your heart that you know is right
...is Determination.
Doing more than is expected, to make
another's life a little more bearable,
without uttering a single complaint
...is Compassion.
Helping a friend in need, no matter the
time or effort, to the best of your ability
...is Loyalty.
Being the best you know you can be when life
seems to fall apart at your feet, facing each
difficulty with the confidence that time will bring
better tomorrows, and never giving up...
...is Confidence.
Have A Fantastic Day
It Makes Me Happy To Know You're Part Of My Life
Chuck, Thank you! I appreciate your friendship!
Love, ~Brenda
Standing for what you believe in
regardless of the odds against you, and
the pressure that tears at your resistance
...is Courage.
Keeping a smile on your face when inside you
feel like dying, for the sake of supporting others
...is Strength.
Stopping at nothing and doing what's
in your heart that you know is right
...is Determination.
Doing more than is expected, to make
another's life a little more bearable,
without uttering a single complaint
...is Compassion.
Helping a friend in need, no matter the
time or effort, to the best of your ability
...is Loyalty.
Being the best you know you can be when life
seems to fall apart at your feet, facing each
difficulty with the confidence that time will bring
better tomorrows, and never giving up...
...is Confidence.
Have A Fantastic Day
It Makes Me Happy To Know You're Part Of My Life
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Well, it's Tuesday
Hey, everyone!
Well, it's Tuesday, and I'm bored out of my mind. Seems like every time I try to do something around here, I get "caught." I was taking out the trash yesterday, and my Mom called.... Damn! Caught! lol Saturday, I was picking up some stuff around the house, and got a phone call.... Damn! Caught! Seems like everyone tells me to take it easy, but I'm BORED, BORED, BORED.... I don't make a very good sick person. My armpit is still sore, and I have to be careful with what I lift with my right arm because of it, but my left side is fine! Grrrr.... lol. I'm gonna lose my mind. I have found that if I bend over too far, or reach too far for anything, I can feel my stitches tug. Obviously, I don't want to tear them open or anything, but I can't help but feel useless. Very annoying.
Ok, I'm finished ranting.
I plan to return to work next Monday. I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow to find out what the pathologist discovered about my tumor and the lymph nodes. My radiation appointment is on the 28th of November, because they wanted to give 3 weeks for the cuts to heal totally before starting Radiation.
Oh, here's a cute story: As many of you know, I'm taking percocet (spelling?) for the pain. When I take it, I am supposed to eat something. So, Saturday morning, I got up, took my pill, and just had some cottage cheese, because I wasn't very hungary. About 10 minutes later, I was high as a kite! lol. It was pretty funny, because Tim had me in the front yard, trying to explain his landscaping plans to me, and I just stood there, swaying back and forth, not hearing a word he said. Finally, he stopped talking and I carried my happy butt back to bed. I guess I had better take more than just some cottage cheese with those pills!
Not much else going on. We are slowly moving ahead with the plans to add an upstairs to the house. Hopefully, it will be done before Christmas. I don't want to be under construction during the holidays, if I can help it. Anyways, thanks for all of the kind e-mails I've gotten lately. I'll sit down either today or tomorrow and write some people back.
Love, ~Brenda
Well, it's Tuesday, and I'm bored out of my mind. Seems like every time I try to do something around here, I get "caught." I was taking out the trash yesterday, and my Mom called.... Damn! Caught! lol Saturday, I was picking up some stuff around the house, and got a phone call.... Damn! Caught! Seems like everyone tells me to take it easy, but I'm BORED, BORED, BORED.... I don't make a very good sick person. My armpit is still sore, and I have to be careful with what I lift with my right arm because of it, but my left side is fine! Grrrr.... lol. I'm gonna lose my mind. I have found that if I bend over too far, or reach too far for anything, I can feel my stitches tug. Obviously, I don't want to tear them open or anything, but I can't help but feel useless. Very annoying.
Ok, I'm finished ranting.
I plan to return to work next Monday. I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow to find out what the pathologist discovered about my tumor and the lymph nodes. My radiation appointment is on the 28th of November, because they wanted to give 3 weeks for the cuts to heal totally before starting Radiation.
Oh, here's a cute story: As many of you know, I'm taking percocet (spelling?) for the pain. When I take it, I am supposed to eat something. So, Saturday morning, I got up, took my pill, and just had some cottage cheese, because I wasn't very hungary. About 10 minutes later, I was high as a kite! lol. It was pretty funny, because Tim had me in the front yard, trying to explain his landscaping plans to me, and I just stood there, swaying back and forth, not hearing a word he said. Finally, he stopped talking and I carried my happy butt back to bed. I guess I had better take more than just some cottage cheese with those pills!
Not much else going on. We are slowly moving ahead with the plans to add an upstairs to the house. Hopefully, it will be done before Christmas. I don't want to be under construction during the holidays, if I can help it. Anyways, thanks for all of the kind e-mails I've gotten lately. I'll sit down either today or tomorrow and write some people back.
Love, ~Brenda
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Removed the bandages
Well, I finally got my friend, Tammy, to help me remove the bandages last night. I was so worried about how "mangled" I'd be that I couldn't even look in the mirror until she swore to me that it wasn't as bad as I was imagining. I was so upset about looking that I felt like I was going to pass out and had to lie down on the bed! I'm such a big baby! lol.
So, I finally caved in and gave it a look... I have a horizontal cut where they took out the tumor that is about 3 inches long, and another cut under my armpit that is about 2 inches long. I think they should heal up pretty well, though. A side note, however... my armpit is completely numb! Weird. It feels the same way your lip feels after you have a tooth filled. Strange! Hopefully, that will go away with time, but I don't know. I'll have to ask the dr. about it on Wednesday when we see him.
Otherwise, I'm just laying low. Still taking the painkillers and trying not to tear open the stitches. I've gotten several speeches from people who know me only too well... about not "over-doing it." I was trying to pick up stuff around my house yesterday, and got in trouble for that. lol.
Oh, one more thing for today: I have recieved flowers!!!! They are absolutely beautiful! My pals from work sent pink roses. They smell soooo good! Some of the people from Tim's work sent a beautiful pink, yellow and purple boquet with a balloon; Linda and Jim sent a lovely blue, red and yellow boquet; and Tim bought me lillies! Tammy also took Carley out and they got me a balloon, too! My bedroom smells like a flower shop! They're so beautiful!! Thank you, everyone, for your thoughtfulness! I'm not always a "girlie-girl" but I do LOVE flowers! I'm in flower-heaven right now! lol.
Anyways, I guess that's about it for now. I do have this week off of work, but I think I will be well enough to return on the following Monday. I can only sit around my house for so long before I begin to completely lose my mind! So, I'll be back to the Fleet as soon as I can!
Love, ~Brenda
So, I finally caved in and gave it a look... I have a horizontal cut where they took out the tumor that is about 3 inches long, and another cut under my armpit that is about 2 inches long. I think they should heal up pretty well, though. A side note, however... my armpit is completely numb! Weird. It feels the same way your lip feels after you have a tooth filled. Strange! Hopefully, that will go away with time, but I don't know. I'll have to ask the dr. about it on Wednesday when we see him.
Otherwise, I'm just laying low. Still taking the painkillers and trying not to tear open the stitches. I've gotten several speeches from people who know me only too well... about not "over-doing it." I was trying to pick up stuff around my house yesterday, and got in trouble for that. lol.
Oh, one more thing for today: I have recieved flowers!!!! They are absolutely beautiful! My pals from work sent pink roses. They smell soooo good! Some of the people from Tim's work sent a beautiful pink, yellow and purple boquet with a balloon; Linda and Jim sent a lovely blue, red and yellow boquet; and Tim bought me lillies! Tammy also took Carley out and they got me a balloon, too! My bedroom smells like a flower shop! They're so beautiful!! Thank you, everyone, for your thoughtfulness! I'm not always a "girlie-girl" but I do LOVE flowers! I'm in flower-heaven right now! lol.
Anyways, I guess that's about it for now. I do have this week off of work, but I think I will be well enough to return on the following Monday. I can only sit around my house for so long before I begin to completely lose my mind! So, I'll be back to the Fleet as soon as I can!
Love, ~Brenda
Saturday, November 04, 2006
The Poem
The Poem
I knelt to pray but not for long,
I had too much to do.
I had to hurry and get to work
For bills would soon be due.
So I knelt and said a hurried prayer,
And jumped up off my knees.
My Christian duty was now done
My soul could rest at ease.....
All day long I had no time
To spread a word of cheer
No time to speak of Christ to friends,
They'd laugh at me I'd fear.
No time, no time, too much to do,
That was my constant cry,
No time to give to souls in need
But at last the time, the time to die.
I went before the Lord,
I came, I stood with downcast eyes.
For in his hands God! held a book;
It was the book of life.
God looked into his book and said
"Your name I cannot find
I once was going to write it down...
But never found the time."
Now do you have the time to pass it on?
Joy
If you look at what you do not have in life, you don't have anything,
If you look at what you have in life, you have everything.
If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.
Happy moments, praise God.
Difficult moments, seek God.
Quiet moments, worship God.
Painful moments, trust God.
Every moment, thank God.
I hope this brings everyone a little peace of mind today!
Love, ~Brenda
I knelt to pray but not for long,
I had too much to do.
I had to hurry and get to work
For bills would soon be due.
So I knelt and said a hurried prayer,
And jumped up off my knees.
My Christian duty was now done
My soul could rest at ease.....
All day long I had no time
To spread a word of cheer
No time to speak of Christ to friends,
They'd laugh at me I'd fear.
No time, no time, too much to do,
That was my constant cry,
No time to give to souls in need
But at last the time, the time to die.
I went before the Lord,
I came, I stood with downcast eyes.
For in his hands God! held a book;
It was the book of life.
God looked into his book and said
"Your name I cannot find
I once was going to write it down...
But never found the time."
Now do you have the time to pass it on?
Joy
If you look at what you do not have in life, you don't have anything,
If you look at what you have in life, you have everything.
If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.
Happy moments, praise God.
Difficult moments, seek God.
Quiet moments, worship God.
Painful moments, trust God.
Every moment, thank God.
I hope this brings everyone a little peace of mind today!
Love, ~Brenda
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Post-Op
Hi, everyone! I am home now, and I'm doing fine. I got home around 5 this afternoon.
I ended up not going into surgery until about 11:30 this morning. The surgeon finally came out to talk to Tim at 2:10 this afternoon. The doctor said he took out the tumor and sent it down to pathology. It tested positive for cancer cells on the outside of what he took out, so he had to go back in to remove some more tissue, which came back negative for cancer on the outside. So, he got as much as he could from the tumor area.
Then, he ended taking out three of my lymph nodes. I'm not sure, but I'm guessing they may have found some cancer cells in the first two, and the third one came up negative, so he stopped there. That's just my guess on that, though.
Other than being a little sore in the armpit area, I'm doing fine. I was very dizzy every time I stood up for most of the day, but it's starting to wear off now, and I'm able to move around a little as long as I don't stand for too long at a time. Of course, I am on painkillers, so I'm not sure how long it'll be before I can return to work because I don't want to work with narcotics in my system! They don't want us drinking on the job (even though I AM a bartender) so I'm sure they don't want me drugged up! lol.
So, I have an appointment with the surgeon on Wednesday to go over what they found, and for him to check my incisions. But, I am doing fine. Fortunately for me, I've had a wonderful nurse (Tim) and beautiful visitors (the girls). Thanks to Tammy for taking care of Carley today. It was definately appreciated!
Love, ~Brenda
I ended up not going into surgery until about 11:30 this morning. The surgeon finally came out to talk to Tim at 2:10 this afternoon. The doctor said he took out the tumor and sent it down to pathology. It tested positive for cancer cells on the outside of what he took out, so he had to go back in to remove some more tissue, which came back negative for cancer on the outside. So, he got as much as he could from the tumor area.
Then, he ended taking out three of my lymph nodes. I'm not sure, but I'm guessing they may have found some cancer cells in the first two, and the third one came up negative, so he stopped there. That's just my guess on that, though.
Other than being a little sore in the armpit area, I'm doing fine. I was very dizzy every time I stood up for most of the day, but it's starting to wear off now, and I'm able to move around a little as long as I don't stand for too long at a time. Of course, I am on painkillers, so I'm not sure how long it'll be before I can return to work because I don't want to work with narcotics in my system! They don't want us drinking on the job (even though I AM a bartender) so I'm sure they don't want me drugged up! lol.
So, I have an appointment with the surgeon on Wednesday to go over what they found, and for him to check my incisions. But, I am doing fine. Fortunately for me, I've had a wonderful nurse (Tim) and beautiful visitors (the girls). Thanks to Tammy for taking care of Carley today. It was definately appreciated!
Love, ~Brenda
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
11 Hours Until Surgery
Well, neither Tim or I really like this doctor very much. It's his personality... I don't get a warm and fuzzy from him. Very disturbing, actually. Our first meeting with him was 10 minutes of him avoiding answers, answering questions with questions, referring some of our questions to "this other person we'll be speaking to" and so on. When we left that day, we really didn't know much more than when we went in there. On top of it, he acted like he was in a hurry and we were wasting his time!
Then, on Monday, we talked to my Radiation Oncologist. She is wonderful! She seemed to have all the time in the world for us, and not only answered all of our questions honestly, but even brought up a few other important points! With the surgeon, he was even vague about answering questions directly relating to the surgery. The radiation doctor gave us all of the info we wanted, and more! I really liked her (actually, I think I have said this already in an earlier blog).
So, because of the meeting with her, Tim got on the phone and tracked the surgeon back down yesterday and "had a talk with him." It's so cute when he says that. I can only imagine how the conversation went, but needless to say, this overly busy surgeon suddenly had time to see us today, and didn't seem to be in any hurry at all! Go figure.
Well, we were able to "trap" him long enough that he answered all of my questions. Since so many have been calling (and if you've left a message and I haven't called back, I'M SORRY!!!) with similar questions, I'll try to answer some:
I am going in at 8:55 tomorrow morning so they can insert this dye into the tumor. It takes avout 2 hours to get to my lymph nodes. From there, they'll be able to see which nodes are being affected and just biopsey those, instead of removing them all like they used to do. So, I'll be having a lumpectomey done, where they remove just the tumor and some of the surrounding tissue. A separate incision will be made under my armpit to get to the lymph nodes. The whole procedure should last about 90 minutes or so. Then, they'll keep me in a recovery room until some of the anestesia begins to wear off, and then I'll get to go home. We did have the dr. write my prescription today so that Tim wouldn't have to worry about getting to the base tomorrow to pick up pain pills for me.
He said that I will have some soreness (obviously) and won't be able to lift my arm very high for a few days. But, I'm hoping to go back to work in a week or so.
Then, my next appointment (besides some post-surgery check-ups) will be with radiology on the 28th of November... The day after mine and Tim's 9-year wedding anniversary. From there, I'll be doing radiation (it's not clear how long I'll be doing this yet) followed by chemotheraphy (also unknown as to how long). The doses for radiation and chemo will be better known after the tumor and nodes are removed and sent to pathology for testing.
If the lymph nodes come back positive for cancer, I will require another surgery to remove those. Also, some of you have asked about reconstruction. The dr. said that 95% of these types of surgeries do not require plastic surgery, because my body should naturally build up scar tissue in the place where the tumor is being removed from. So, I should have a small scar from the incision, but nothing worse. The stitches will even be under the skin, instead of the outside.
Oh, and one more thing.... everyone keeps asking what stage of cancer it is. Sorry, but they really won't know until after the surgery exactly how large the tumor is and if/how far it may have spread. He said that the reason the tumor showed up bigger on the MRI than on the mammogram is that the MRI picks up everything, including inflamations. So, the tissue around the tumor could be inflamed, but not have cancer in it. We will find that out at the surgery.
I guess that's about it for now. Thank you to everyone that has called to wish me well, and for the e-mails I've recieved! It is so wonderful to have so many people care about me.
Love, ~Brenda
Then, on Monday, we talked to my Radiation Oncologist. She is wonderful! She seemed to have all the time in the world for us, and not only answered all of our questions honestly, but even brought up a few other important points! With the surgeon, he was even vague about answering questions directly relating to the surgery. The radiation doctor gave us all of the info we wanted, and more! I really liked her (actually, I think I have said this already in an earlier blog).
So, because of the meeting with her, Tim got on the phone and tracked the surgeon back down yesterday and "had a talk with him." It's so cute when he says that. I can only imagine how the conversation went, but needless to say, this overly busy surgeon suddenly had time to see us today, and didn't seem to be in any hurry at all! Go figure.
Well, we were able to "trap" him long enough that he answered all of my questions. Since so many have been calling (and if you've left a message and I haven't called back, I'M SORRY!!!) with similar questions, I'll try to answer some:
I am going in at 8:55 tomorrow morning so they can insert this dye into the tumor. It takes avout 2 hours to get to my lymph nodes. From there, they'll be able to see which nodes are being affected and just biopsey those, instead of removing them all like they used to do. So, I'll be having a lumpectomey done, where they remove just the tumor and some of the surrounding tissue. A separate incision will be made under my armpit to get to the lymph nodes. The whole procedure should last about 90 minutes or so. Then, they'll keep me in a recovery room until some of the anestesia begins to wear off, and then I'll get to go home. We did have the dr. write my prescription today so that Tim wouldn't have to worry about getting to the base tomorrow to pick up pain pills for me.
He said that I will have some soreness (obviously) and won't be able to lift my arm very high for a few days. But, I'm hoping to go back to work in a week or so.
Then, my next appointment (besides some post-surgery check-ups) will be with radiology on the 28th of November... The day after mine and Tim's 9-year wedding anniversary. From there, I'll be doing radiation (it's not clear how long I'll be doing this yet) followed by chemotheraphy (also unknown as to how long). The doses for radiation and chemo will be better known after the tumor and nodes are removed and sent to pathology for testing.
If the lymph nodes come back positive for cancer, I will require another surgery to remove those. Also, some of you have asked about reconstruction. The dr. said that 95% of these types of surgeries do not require plastic surgery, because my body should naturally build up scar tissue in the place where the tumor is being removed from. So, I should have a small scar from the incision, but nothing worse. The stitches will even be under the skin, instead of the outside.
Oh, and one more thing.... everyone keeps asking what stage of cancer it is. Sorry, but they really won't know until after the surgery exactly how large the tumor is and if/how far it may have spread. He said that the reason the tumor showed up bigger on the MRI than on the mammogram is that the MRI picks up everything, including inflamations. So, the tissue around the tumor could be inflamed, but not have cancer in it. We will find that out at the surgery.
I guess that's about it for now. Thank you to everyone that has called to wish me well, and for the e-mails I've recieved! It is so wonderful to have so many people care about me.
Love, ~Brenda
Surgery Tomorrow
Well, my surgery is tomorrow. I'm a little nervous, but otherwise I'm ok. I think I'll spend some time alone listening to the CD's that Jude sent me tonight. I have to have my head in a happy place, and it hasn't been lately.
Tim and I are leaving in a few minutes for a final question/answer session with the surgeon. I have a whole list of questions written down, and Tim says he has a few, too. I'll take some notes, and try to write another blog this evening to let everyone know exactly what is happening and answer some of the most commonly asked questions.
Just a side note, we leave for the hospital at 7:30 tomorrow, drop off Carley at a friend's and then start the process of getting the injection for the Lymph Node Biopsey and so on. The surgery is at 10:55 tomorrow morning. If you could all set the alarms on your cell phones, watches, or whatever, and say a quick, silent prayer around that time, I would really appreciate it! I know God is watching over me, but every little bit helps, right?
Anyways, more later. I'll give an update on the meeting with the dr. Love, ~Brenda
Tim and I are leaving in a few minutes for a final question/answer session with the surgeon. I have a whole list of questions written down, and Tim says he has a few, too. I'll take some notes, and try to write another blog this evening to let everyone know exactly what is happening and answer some of the most commonly asked questions.
Just a side note, we leave for the hospital at 7:30 tomorrow, drop off Carley at a friend's and then start the process of getting the injection for the Lymph Node Biopsey and so on. The surgery is at 10:55 tomorrow morning. If you could all set the alarms on your cell phones, watches, or whatever, and say a quick, silent prayer around that time, I would really appreciate it! I know God is watching over me, but every little bit helps, right?
Anyways, more later. I'll give an update on the meeting with the dr. Love, ~Brenda
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Rough night
Well, yesterday and last night were pretty rough for me.
All along, I've had this "I don't feel sick, so there's nothing wrong with me" attitude. Then, Tim and I went to meet the radiation oncology doctor yesterday.
She is amazing! She didn't rush us, she listened to all of our questions and answered them completely. I am really glad to have her as part of the team that I'll be working with!
But, after the appointment, I went home and enjoyed some quiet time, where my mind slowly started to take over. By the time 6:00 rolled around and I had to go to work, I was NOT in a good place (in my head). Fortunately, I have one of the coolest bosses in the entire world. Betty closed the place down, gave me a few beers and let me just relax. I needed that more than she could possibly know! There was just no way my head was into working last night. I couldn't focus on anything. My mind was everywhere and nowhere all at one time. Definately a mess.
But, enough about that. I'm sure you all want to know what the dr said yesterday! lol.
Well, she talked about the surgery and any reconstruction that may need to be done. She told me about the radiation treatments, and then went on to tell me that because of my age and the size of the tumor, I'll also be doing chemo after the radiation to get any cells that may have moved somewhere else in my body. She confirmed what I already knew.... It's gonna be a long, ugly year!
But, I do have wonderful friends that live close by, family members offering to visit if I need them, and a boss that is flexible with whatever schedule I need to work around. I couldn't ask for a better support group at all!
Oh, and one more thing... Thank you to Jude and to Jannian for the care packages you sent to me! Jude, the cd's are very good. I can't thank you enough! I just need to get into the habit of setting time every day to enjoy them. Jannian.... I can't tell you how much fun it was opening your box of "goodies!" You never cease to amaze me! I love you!!!!
And finally, to my good friend, Chuck... Thank you for making sure that my emotional baggage and I got home in one piece last night! My Jeep was fine this morning when I picked it up. It's good to have friends to take care of you when you finally break down and let your emotions try to take over. I needed that!
I hope everyone has a wonderful Halloween tonight. I can't wait to see all the kids in their costumes! Love and hugs, ~Brenda
All along, I've had this "I don't feel sick, so there's nothing wrong with me" attitude. Then, Tim and I went to meet the radiation oncology doctor yesterday.
She is amazing! She didn't rush us, she listened to all of our questions and answered them completely. I am really glad to have her as part of the team that I'll be working with!
But, after the appointment, I went home and enjoyed some quiet time, where my mind slowly started to take over. By the time 6:00 rolled around and I had to go to work, I was NOT in a good place (in my head). Fortunately, I have one of the coolest bosses in the entire world. Betty closed the place down, gave me a few beers and let me just relax. I needed that more than she could possibly know! There was just no way my head was into working last night. I couldn't focus on anything. My mind was everywhere and nowhere all at one time. Definately a mess.
But, enough about that. I'm sure you all want to know what the dr said yesterday! lol.
Well, she talked about the surgery and any reconstruction that may need to be done. She told me about the radiation treatments, and then went on to tell me that because of my age and the size of the tumor, I'll also be doing chemo after the radiation to get any cells that may have moved somewhere else in my body. She confirmed what I already knew.... It's gonna be a long, ugly year!
But, I do have wonderful friends that live close by, family members offering to visit if I need them, and a boss that is flexible with whatever schedule I need to work around. I couldn't ask for a better support group at all!
Oh, and one more thing... Thank you to Jude and to Jannian for the care packages you sent to me! Jude, the cd's are very good. I can't thank you enough! I just need to get into the habit of setting time every day to enjoy them. Jannian.... I can't tell you how much fun it was opening your box of "goodies!" You never cease to amaze me! I love you!!!!
And finally, to my good friend, Chuck... Thank you for making sure that my emotional baggage and I got home in one piece last night! My Jeep was fine this morning when I picked it up. It's good to have friends to take care of you when you finally break down and let your emotions try to take over. I needed that!
I hope everyone has a wonderful Halloween tonight. I can't wait to see all the kids in their costumes! Love and hugs, ~Brenda
Monday, October 30, 2006
Red Fridays....
Support our troops
Last week, while traveling to Chicago on business, I noticed a Marine sergeant traveling with a folded flag, but did not put two and twotogether. After we boarded our flight, I turned to the sergeant, who'dbeen invited to sit in First Class (across from me), and inquired if hewas heading home.
No, he responded.
Heading out I asked?
No. I'm escorting a soldier home.
Going to pick him up?
No. He is with me right now. He was killed in Iraq . I'm taking him home to his family.
The realization of what he had been asked to do hit me like a punch tothe gut. It was an honor for him.
He told me that, although he didn't know the soldier, he had delivered the news of his passing to thes oldier's family and felt as if he knew them after many conversations in so few days.
I turned back to him, extended my hand, and said, Thank you. Thank you for doing what you do so my family and I can do what we do.
Upon landing in Chicago the pilot stopped short of the gate and made the following announcement over the intercom. "Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to note that we have had the honor of having Sergeant Steeleyof the United States Marine Corps join us on this flight. He is escorting a fallen comrade back home to his family. I ask that you please remain in your seats when we open the forward door to allow Sergeant Steeley to deplane and receive his fellow soldier. We will then turn off the seat belt sign."
Without a sound, all went as requested. I noticed the sergeant saluting the casket as it was brought off the plane, and his action made me realize that I am proud to be an American.
So here's a public Thank You to our military Men and Women for what you do so we can live the way we do.
Red Fridays
Very soon, you will see a great many people wearing Red every Friday.
The reason? Americans who support our troops used to be called the"silent majority." We are no longer silent, and are voicing our love for God, country and home in record breaking numbers. We are not organized, boisterous or overbearing. Many Americans, like you, me and all our friends, simply want to recognize that the vast majority of America that supports our troops.
Our idea of showing solidarity and support for our troops with dignity and respect starts this Friday -- and continues each and every Friday until the troops all come home, sending a deafening message that: every red-blooded American who supports our men and women afar, will wear something red.
By word of mouth, press, TV -- let's make the United States on every Friday a sea of red much like a homecoming football game in the bleachers. If every one of us who loves this country will share this with acquaintances, coworkers, friends, and family, it will not be long before the USA is covered in RED and it will let our troops know the once "silent" majority is on their side more than ever, certainly more than the media lets on.
The first thing a soldier says when asked "What can we do to make things better for you?" is "We need your support and your prayers."
Let's get the word out and lead with class and dignity, by example, and wear something red every Friday.
IF YOU AGREE -- THEN SEND THIS ON. IF YOU COULDN'T CARE LESS -- THEN HIT THE DELETE BUTTON. IT IS YOUR CHOICE. WE LIVE IN THE LAND OF THE FREE, ONLY BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE!
Last week, while traveling to Chicago on business, I noticed a Marine sergeant traveling with a folded flag, but did not put two and twotogether. After we boarded our flight, I turned to the sergeant, who'dbeen invited to sit in First Class (across from me), and inquired if hewas heading home.
No, he responded.
Heading out I asked?
No. I'm escorting a soldier home.
Going to pick him up?
No. He is with me right now. He was killed in Iraq . I'm taking him home to his family.
The realization of what he had been asked to do hit me like a punch tothe gut. It was an honor for him.
He told me that, although he didn't know the soldier, he had delivered the news of his passing to thes oldier's family and felt as if he knew them after many conversations in so few days.
I turned back to him, extended my hand, and said, Thank you. Thank you for doing what you do so my family and I can do what we do.
Upon landing in Chicago the pilot stopped short of the gate and made the following announcement over the intercom. "Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to note that we have had the honor of having Sergeant Steeleyof the United States Marine Corps join us on this flight. He is escorting a fallen comrade back home to his family. I ask that you please remain in your seats when we open the forward door to allow Sergeant Steeley to deplane and receive his fellow soldier. We will then turn off the seat belt sign."
Without a sound, all went as requested. I noticed the sergeant saluting the casket as it was brought off the plane, and his action made me realize that I am proud to be an American.
So here's a public Thank You to our military Men and Women for what you do so we can live the way we do.
Red Fridays
Very soon, you will see a great many people wearing Red every Friday.
The reason? Americans who support our troops used to be called the"silent majority." We are no longer silent, and are voicing our love for God, country and home in record breaking numbers. We are not organized, boisterous or overbearing. Many Americans, like you, me and all our friends, simply want to recognize that the vast majority of America that supports our troops.
Our idea of showing solidarity and support for our troops with dignity and respect starts this Friday -- and continues each and every Friday until the troops all come home, sending a deafening message that: every red-blooded American who supports our men and women afar, will wear something red.
By word of mouth, press, TV -- let's make the United States on every Friday a sea of red much like a homecoming football game in the bleachers. If every one of us who loves this country will share this with acquaintances, coworkers, friends, and family, it will not be long before the USA is covered in RED and it will let our troops know the once "silent" majority is on their side more than ever, certainly more than the media lets on.
The first thing a soldier says when asked "What can we do to make things better for you?" is "We need your support and your prayers."
Let's get the word out and lead with class and dignity, by example, and wear something red every Friday.
IF YOU AGREE -- THEN SEND THIS ON. IF YOU COULDN'T CARE LESS -- THEN HIT THE DELETE BUTTON. IT IS YOUR CHOICE. WE LIVE IN THE LAND OF THE FREE, ONLY BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE!
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Tell 10 today!
Please tell ten friends to tell ten today!
The Breast Cancer site is having trouble getting enough people to click on their site daily to meet their quota of donating at least one free mammogram a day to an underprivileged woman. It takes less than a minute to go to their site and click on "donating a mammogram" for free (pink window in the middle).
This doesn't cost you a thing. Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate mammogram in exchange for advertising. Here's the web site! Pass it along to people you know. http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/
AGAIN, PLEASE TELL 10 FRIENDS TO TELL 10 TODAY
The Breast Cancer site is having trouble getting enough people to click on their site daily to meet their quota of donating at least one free mammogram a day to an underprivileged woman. It takes less than a minute to go to their site and click on "donating a mammogram" for free (pink window in the middle).
This doesn't cost you a thing. Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate mammogram in exchange for advertising. Here's the web site! Pass it along to people you know. http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/
AGAIN, PLEASE TELL 10 FRIENDS TO TELL 10 TODAY
Thursday, October 26, 2006
My positive attitude...
Many of you have commented to me on my positive attitude and the ability to maintain my sense of humor. While many of you may see it as my being strong, it may really be a slight bit of self-denial and a way to make light of the situation. Whatever it may be, it seems to work for me, even if Tim doesn't appreciate my weight-loss and bald jokes. (Sorry, baby!)
Really, I have no choice in the situation. I could sit around feeling sorry for myself because this has "happened" to me. I won't do that, though. That's not me. I have too many people in my life to survive for... starting with my girls! So, my only other option is to look this in the eye and take it head on. Step by step, I know that I'll get through it with Tim's help and the help of all of my friends and family.
I have been trying to think of ways to encourage myself later on, when I'm not feeling so great. One of those ways is to make a list of POSITIVES that can come of this. Here is my list thus far:
Really, I have no choice in the situation. I could sit around feeling sorry for myself because this has "happened" to me. I won't do that, though. That's not me. I have too many people in my life to survive for... starting with my girls! So, my only other option is to look this in the eye and take it head on. Step by step, I know that I'll get through it with Tim's help and the help of all of my friends and family.
I have been trying to think of ways to encourage myself later on, when I'm not feeling so great. One of those ways is to make a list of POSITIVES that can come of this. Here is my list thus far:
- This is bringing me closer to friends and relatives that I have not spoken to in a long time.
- I will be able to help bring awareness to younger women of the dangers of breast cancer.
- I have already begun to appreciate the smaller things in life.
- I've noticed that my family members are taking me for granted less.
- Tim has been spoiling me rotten (more than usual), which is fun. (wink)
- This will erase any self-doubt that I may have had in my own abilities.
- I will eventually quit smoking.
- This gives me an opportunity to let all of my friends and family know what they mean to me.
- I'm paving the way to a healthier lifestyle for myself and my family.
- I have been pre-warned to watch for this in Carley when she gets a little older.
I know the list can be much longer, but that is what I have so far. I can't focus on the negatives, because they are too scary... it's the unknown. But, the positives will be a crutch, a handle to hold on to when things begin to get stormy for me.
Let me know if you have any other suggestions for "positives." Love, ~Brenda
Time for Ice Cream!
READ THIS VERY SLOWLY...
Too many people put off something that brings them joy just because they haven't thought about it, don't have it on their schedule, didn't know it was coming or are too rigid to depart from their routine.
Just think about all those people on the Titanic who passed up dessert at dinner that fateful night in an effort to cut back.
Maybe we should try to be a little more flexible.
How many women out there will eat at home because their husband didn't suggest going out to dinner until after something had been thawed? Does the word "refrigeration" mean nothing to you?
How often have your kids dropped in to talk and sat in silence while you watched 'Jeopardy' on television?
I cannot count the times I called my sister and said, "How about going to lunch in a half hour?" She would gas up and stammer,"I can't. I have clothes on the line. My hair is dirty. I wish I hadknown yesterday, I had a late breakfast, It looks like rain." And my personal favorite: "It's Monday" She died a few years ago. We never did have lunch together.
Because Americans cram so much into their lives, we tend to schedule our headaches. We live on a sparse diet of promises we make to ourselves when all the conditions are perfect! We'll go back and visit the grandparents when we get Steve toilet-trained. We'll entertain when we replace the living-roomcarpet. We'll go on a second honeymoon when we get two more kids out of college. Life has a way of accelerating as we get older.
The days get shorter, and the list of promises to ourselves gets longer.
One morning, we awaken, and all we have to show for our lives is a litany of "I'm going to," "I plan on," and "Someday, when things are settled down a bit."
When anyone calls my 'seize the moment' friend, she is open to adventure and available for trips. She keeps an open mind onnew ideas. Her enthusiasm for life is contagious. You talk with her for five minutes, and you're ready to trade your bad feet for a pair of Rollerblades and skip an elevator for a bungee cord.
My lips have not touched ice cream in 10 years. I love ice cream. It's just that I might as well apply it directly to my stomach with a spatula and eliminate the digestive process. The other day, I stopped the car and bought a triple-decker. If my car had hit aniceberg on the way home, I would have died happy.
Now...go on and have a nice day. Do something you WANT to... ...not something on your SHOULD DO list.
If you were going to die soon and had only one phone call you could make, who would you call and what would you say? And why are you waiting?
Have you ever watched kids playing on a merry go round or listened to the rain lapping on the ground? Ever followed abutterfly's erratic flight or gazed at the sun into the fading night? Do you run through each day on the fly? When you ask "How are you?" Do you hear the reply? When the day is done, do you lie in your bed with the next hundred chores running through your head? Ever told your child,"We'll do it tomorrow." And in your haste, not see his sorrow? Ever lost touch? Let a good friendship die? Just call to say "Hi"?
When you worry and hurry through your day, it is like an unopened gift....Thrown away.... Life is not a race. Take it slower.
Hear the music before the song is over . Every day, we should show our friends how much we care. Especially at this time of my life, I cherish our friendship and appreciate all that each of you do.
Thank you for being a part of my life, no matter how great or small! Love, Brenda
Too many people put off something that brings them joy just because they haven't thought about it, don't have it on their schedule, didn't know it was coming or are too rigid to depart from their routine.
Just think about all those people on the Titanic who passed up dessert at dinner that fateful night in an effort to cut back.
Maybe we should try to be a little more flexible.
How many women out there will eat at home because their husband didn't suggest going out to dinner until after something had been thawed? Does the word "refrigeration" mean nothing to you?
How often have your kids dropped in to talk and sat in silence while you watched 'Jeopardy' on television?
I cannot count the times I called my sister and said, "How about going to lunch in a half hour?" She would gas up and stammer,"I can't. I have clothes on the line. My hair is dirty. I wish I hadknown yesterday, I had a late breakfast, It looks like rain." And my personal favorite: "It's Monday" She died a few years ago. We never did have lunch together.
Because Americans cram so much into their lives, we tend to schedule our headaches. We live on a sparse diet of promises we make to ourselves when all the conditions are perfect! We'll go back and visit the grandparents when we get Steve toilet-trained. We'll entertain when we replace the living-roomcarpet. We'll go on a second honeymoon when we get two more kids out of college. Life has a way of accelerating as we get older.
The days get shorter, and the list of promises to ourselves gets longer.
One morning, we awaken, and all we have to show for our lives is a litany of "I'm going to," "I plan on," and "Someday, when things are settled down a bit."
When anyone calls my 'seize the moment' friend, she is open to adventure and available for trips. She keeps an open mind onnew ideas. Her enthusiasm for life is contagious. You talk with her for five minutes, and you're ready to trade your bad feet for a pair of Rollerblades and skip an elevator for a bungee cord.
My lips have not touched ice cream in 10 years. I love ice cream. It's just that I might as well apply it directly to my stomach with a spatula and eliminate the digestive process. The other day, I stopped the car and bought a triple-decker. If my car had hit aniceberg on the way home, I would have died happy.
Now...go on and have a nice day. Do something you WANT to... ...not something on your SHOULD DO list.
If you were going to die soon and had only one phone call you could make, who would you call and what would you say? And why are you waiting?
Have you ever watched kids playing on a merry go round or listened to the rain lapping on the ground? Ever followed abutterfly's erratic flight or gazed at the sun into the fading night? Do you run through each day on the fly? When you ask "How are you?" Do you hear the reply? When the day is done, do you lie in your bed with the next hundred chores running through your head? Ever told your child,"We'll do it tomorrow." And in your haste, not see his sorrow? Ever lost touch? Let a good friendship die? Just call to say "Hi"?
When you worry and hurry through your day, it is like an unopened gift....Thrown away.... Life is not a race. Take it slower.
Hear the music before the song is over . Every day, we should show our friends how much we care. Especially at this time of my life, I cherish our friendship and appreciate all that each of you do.
Thank you for being a part of my life, no matter how great or small! Love, Brenda
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Aimee's Walk
Hey, I just figured out that the link to support Aimee in the 3Day is wrong. Here is the correct one: http://www.the3day.org/site/pp.asp?c=ciKTLcPRLvF&b=297924
Once there, click on Donate and then Make a Donation.
On the next screen, click on Donate to a 2007 Breast Cancer 3-day and then hit Michigan on the left of the screen.
Finally, it will give you a place to type Aimee Bingham in the boxes. Once the list comes up, click on her, and go from there.
Sorry about the mix up! This will make it less confusing!! lol. Love, ~Brenda
Once there, click on Donate and then Make a Donation.
On the next screen, click on Donate to a 2007 Breast Cancer 3-day and then hit Michigan on the left of the screen.
Finally, it will give you a place to type Aimee Bingham in the boxes. Once the list comes up, click on her, and go from there.
Sorry about the mix up! This will make it less confusing!! lol. Love, ~Brenda
Monday, October 23, 2006
My Consultation at Shands
Well, a lot of you knew I was having a consultation with the surgeon at Shands Hospital today.
In a nutshell, I go in for bloodwork on Thursday of this week, and he's doing the surgery on Thursday of next (Nov. 2). In order to just put me "under" once, he's going to have me come in 2 hours early so they can inject me with some dye or something that will go directly to the two lymph nodes that they're worried about. Then, he'll make an incision to remove the tumor, and another in my armpit and remove just those two nodes. This way, I won't have to have a biopsey, and come back another time for the rest of the surgery.
He says that right now I'm looking at radiation, but won't know for sure about Chemo or anything until after the surgery and pathology can check out the tumor and the nodes themselves. Then I'll find out more about what treatment I'll be looking at.
Oh, and Tim did just about burst a blood vessel when the dr. told him that the surgery wouldn't be until the 2nd of November. But, I asked how urgent this situation was and he claims that another week or two won't make much of a difference. Since I really don't know about this one, and I'm really not likely to get a sooner surgery date, I'll have to take his word on it. He says "every patient is different" which irritated Tim even more. Tim says that if every patient is different, then how does he know that I won't be affected by two more weeks? He's barely even looked over my reports! Well, I do agree with him on that, but I'm not really sure that anybody in the medical profession can please him right now unless I'm unconscious and they're holding a scalpel over my body... Oh well. At least I know he cares about me!
I was teasing him at lunch today and told him that I didn't really think that there was a world-wide conspiracy against him. He says "No, it's against YOU, and I'm the only one who sees it!" Well, lucky for me I have him to watch my back! lol. At least he hasn't lost his sense of humor.
In a nutshell, I go in for bloodwork on Thursday of this week, and he's doing the surgery on Thursday of next (Nov. 2). In order to just put me "under" once, he's going to have me come in 2 hours early so they can inject me with some dye or something that will go directly to the two lymph nodes that they're worried about. Then, he'll make an incision to remove the tumor, and another in my armpit and remove just those two nodes. This way, I won't have to have a biopsey, and come back another time for the rest of the surgery.
He says that right now I'm looking at radiation, but won't know for sure about Chemo or anything until after the surgery and pathology can check out the tumor and the nodes themselves. Then I'll find out more about what treatment I'll be looking at.
Oh, and Tim did just about burst a blood vessel when the dr. told him that the surgery wouldn't be until the 2nd of November. But, I asked how urgent this situation was and he claims that another week or two won't make much of a difference. Since I really don't know about this one, and I'm really not likely to get a sooner surgery date, I'll have to take his word on it. He says "every patient is different" which irritated Tim even more. Tim says that if every patient is different, then how does he know that I won't be affected by two more weeks? He's barely even looked over my reports! Well, I do agree with him on that, but I'm not really sure that anybody in the medical profession can please him right now unless I'm unconscious and they're holding a scalpel over my body... Oh well. At least I know he cares about me!
I was teasing him at lunch today and told him that I didn't really think that there was a world-wide conspiracy against him. He says "No, it's against YOU, and I'm the only one who sees it!" Well, lucky for me I have him to watch my back! lol. At least he hasn't lost his sense of humor.
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Positive thoughts...
Ok, so maybe quitting smoking just isn't for me... Good news? I am NOT a quitter! That may work out for me in the long run! (lol) Guess I'll have to keep trying on this, though.
Anyhoo, Tim and I rode the Harley down to Daytona for Biketoberfest today. We had to have rode close to 200 miles, so my butt and back are killing me... and we're doing it again tomorrow! Oh well. I'll just take some motrin with me this time. Meanwhile, at an early point in the day today (11:32 am to be exact) I broke down and bought cigarettes. Grrrr! I really want this to work!
Anyways, about other things... I've decided to work on a list of good things that can come of my having breast cancer. I want to do this list soon, while I am still feeling rather healthy so that later, when I'm feeling crappy, I can read it and be reassured.
So, feel free to give me ideas of positive things that can come of this! I'll work on a list and post it soon.
I know that God has not decided to do this just to make my life miserable. He hast to have a long-term plan. Even though I don't know what it is right now, I do feel like this might be my chance to not only learn new things about my "inner self" but it also may help me find that "niche" that I've always been looking for. Perhaps I'm meant to help others by learning from my own experiences. We shall see. That is a reason why I wanted to keep this online journal. Maybe my reasearch and my thought processes can help others. If nothing else, I can let them know that their reactions to different stages of this are normal! Right now, I have a positive attitude (I'm invincible!) but down the road, I may be angry, and hit the whole "Why me????" stage. Either way, maybe it can help others in the long run.
I guess that's it for now. I should get some sleep.... headed back to Daytona tomorrow! Then, my dr. appointment is on Monday.
Love and hugs, ~Brenda
Anyhoo, Tim and I rode the Harley down to Daytona for Biketoberfest today. We had to have rode close to 200 miles, so my butt and back are killing me... and we're doing it again tomorrow! Oh well. I'll just take some motrin with me this time. Meanwhile, at an early point in the day today (11:32 am to be exact) I broke down and bought cigarettes. Grrrr! I really want this to work!
Anyways, about other things... I've decided to work on a list of good things that can come of my having breast cancer. I want to do this list soon, while I am still feeling rather healthy so that later, when I'm feeling crappy, I can read it and be reassured.
So, feel free to give me ideas of positive things that can come of this! I'll work on a list and post it soon.
I know that God has not decided to do this just to make my life miserable. He hast to have a long-term plan. Even though I don't know what it is right now, I do feel like this might be my chance to not only learn new things about my "inner self" but it also may help me find that "niche" that I've always been looking for. Perhaps I'm meant to help others by learning from my own experiences. We shall see. That is a reason why I wanted to keep this online journal. Maybe my reasearch and my thought processes can help others. If nothing else, I can let them know that their reactions to different stages of this are normal! Right now, I have a positive attitude (I'm invincible!) but down the road, I may be angry, and hit the whole "Why me????" stage. Either way, maybe it can help others in the long run.
I guess that's it for now. I should get some sleep.... headed back to Daytona tomorrow! Then, my dr. appointment is on Monday.
Love and hugs, ~Brenda
Coping with Cancer
Good advice that a friend sent...
Wellness Monthly Healthy matters to keep in mind.
When Someone You Know Has Cancer
How to Help Them Cope
When a friend or relative has cancer or other serious illness, it’s perfectly normal to feel worried and uncomfortable. However, if you are not careful, your feelings could change the way you relate to your loved one. It’s important to remember that your friend or relative is still the same person. Only now, that person needs extra support — especially during periods of medical treatment and hospital stays. You can play an important role in making life as normal as possible in a world that has been turned topsy-turvy. Here are some ways.
Listen
People with cancer basically need someone to listen to them talk about their current fears and their future plans. They don’t necessarily need you to "do" anything. It’s not always easy to be a silent refuge from a day of chemotherapy or a night of sleepless panic –– but it can be more helpful than you may think.
Beware of conflict
The period right after diagnosis is often a time of anger, fear and confusion. People with cancer might lash out at you in an attempt to find a target for their frustration. Don’t take these outbursts personally, and try to respond with patience and compassion if you can.
Be yourself
Many people think they don't know how to act around people with cancer. Just do what you normally do, and don't try to be someone you’re not. People with cancer need their family and friends for a sense of normalcy. They have to deal with enough changes in their life without having to adapt to a new you.
Keep looking for hope
While cancer is undeniably a major illness, it is not necessarily fatal. Many cancer patients have been treated successfully, and many others live a long time after the diagnosis. It is hard not to think about the person dying, but it's important to focus on living. Staying positive will encourage people with cancer to do the same. For those with cancer, surviving the disease can be a difficult task. But you can give them positive support and let them share their difficulties with you. Facing cancer together makes it easier to endure the hard times, and to look forward to brighter days ahead.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. If you find that you are having trouble doing daily tasks or that problems are affecting your relationships with friends and family, you should consider seeking professional counseling. Asking for help is never a sign of weakness or failure, especially in situations too difficult to handle alone.
Tips for helping someone cope with cancer.
• Let the person with cancer start talking. You can’t make people talk about their feelings before they are ready, but you can be ready to listen when they are.
• Show your support. "I'm here" can be the most reassuring words you can say.
• Share your anxieties and uncertainties with the person, if appropriate. You both can support each other and give and take strength as you are able.
• Don’t give false assurances by saying, “Don’t worry,” or “Everything will be all right.” Try to lift spirits without denying the truth. It can be as simple as doing fun things you both enjoy.
• Don’t assume the worst. Even if the future is uncertain, you can still look forward to the possibility of a positive response to treatment, as well as spending good times together.
What do you say when you don’t know what to say?
The following are some ideas for how to offer help.
• Don’t start the conversation with, "How are you?" When you ask the question right away, the person may not know whether you really want an answer or are simply being courteous. Engage in some small talk for a few minutes before asking how things are going. Be sure you have time to listen before you ask the question.
• Drop the person a note. A simple message like, "I’ve been thinking of you and wondering how you are doing" lets the person know you care. It can make a big difference. You might suggest getting together for lunch in a few days. Be sure to follow through with the plans you make.
• Be aware of times of stress. For example, if you know when the person is going to the doctor for an appointment or treatment, call a few hours later to ask how it went. Your caring act may help the person cope with any bad news.
• Reinforce trust. Let the individual know that you will keep any personal information to yourself, even if the person doesn’t specifically ask you to.
• Don’t speak. Sometimes a hug or an arm around the shoulder can say more than any words.
• Be honest. It’s okay to tell the person, "I don’t know what to say. I just want you to know that I’m thinking of you." The person with cancer doesn’t need advice or words of wisdom, just your caring and your presence.
The information and therapeutic approaches in this article are provided for educational purposes only and are not meant to be used in place of professional clinical consultations for individual health needs.
Wellness Monthly Healthy matters to keep in mind.
When Someone You Know Has Cancer
How to Help Them Cope
When a friend or relative has cancer or other serious illness, it’s perfectly normal to feel worried and uncomfortable. However, if you are not careful, your feelings could change the way you relate to your loved one. It’s important to remember that your friend or relative is still the same person. Only now, that person needs extra support — especially during periods of medical treatment and hospital stays. You can play an important role in making life as normal as possible in a world that has been turned topsy-turvy. Here are some ways.
Listen
People with cancer basically need someone to listen to them talk about their current fears and their future plans. They don’t necessarily need you to "do" anything. It’s not always easy to be a silent refuge from a day of chemotherapy or a night of sleepless panic –– but it can be more helpful than you may think.
Beware of conflict
The period right after diagnosis is often a time of anger, fear and confusion. People with cancer might lash out at you in an attempt to find a target for their frustration. Don’t take these outbursts personally, and try to respond with patience and compassion if you can.
Be yourself
Many people think they don't know how to act around people with cancer. Just do what you normally do, and don't try to be someone you’re not. People with cancer need their family and friends for a sense of normalcy. They have to deal with enough changes in their life without having to adapt to a new you.
Keep looking for hope
While cancer is undeniably a major illness, it is not necessarily fatal. Many cancer patients have been treated successfully, and many others live a long time after the diagnosis. It is hard not to think about the person dying, but it's important to focus on living. Staying positive will encourage people with cancer to do the same. For those with cancer, surviving the disease can be a difficult task. But you can give them positive support and let them share their difficulties with you. Facing cancer together makes it easier to endure the hard times, and to look forward to brighter days ahead.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. If you find that you are having trouble doing daily tasks or that problems are affecting your relationships with friends and family, you should consider seeking professional counseling. Asking for help is never a sign of weakness or failure, especially in situations too difficult to handle alone.
Tips for helping someone cope with cancer.
• Let the person with cancer start talking. You can’t make people talk about their feelings before they are ready, but you can be ready to listen when they are.
• Show your support. "I'm here" can be the most reassuring words you can say.
• Share your anxieties and uncertainties with the person, if appropriate. You both can support each other and give and take strength as you are able.
• Don’t give false assurances by saying, “Don’t worry,” or “Everything will be all right.” Try to lift spirits without denying the truth. It can be as simple as doing fun things you both enjoy.
• Don’t assume the worst. Even if the future is uncertain, you can still look forward to the possibility of a positive response to treatment, as well as spending good times together.
What do you say when you don’t know what to say?
The following are some ideas for how to offer help.
• Don’t start the conversation with, "How are you?" When you ask the question right away, the person may not know whether you really want an answer or are simply being courteous. Engage in some small talk for a few minutes before asking how things are going. Be sure you have time to listen before you ask the question.
• Drop the person a note. A simple message like, "I’ve been thinking of you and wondering how you are doing" lets the person know you care. It can make a big difference. You might suggest getting together for lunch in a few days. Be sure to follow through with the plans you make.
• Be aware of times of stress. For example, if you know when the person is going to the doctor for an appointment or treatment, call a few hours later to ask how it went. Your caring act may help the person cope with any bad news.
• Reinforce trust. Let the individual know that you will keep any personal information to yourself, even if the person doesn’t specifically ask you to.
• Don’t speak. Sometimes a hug or an arm around the shoulder can say more than any words.
• Be honest. It’s okay to tell the person, "I don’t know what to say. I just want you to know that I’m thinking of you." The person with cancer doesn’t need advice or words of wisdom, just your caring and your presence.
The information and therapeutic approaches in this article are provided for educational purposes only and are not meant to be used in place of professional clinical consultations for individual health needs.
Friday, October 20, 2006
Quitting Smoking
Alright, alright, I know what you're all thinking after reading the heading of this blog. "Damn, she's been diagnosed with cancer and she still smokes????" Yes, I'm still smoking. I have exactly two cigarettes left in my pack and then I'm done. I've bought the Nicotine Lozenges, tried to talk myself out of buying any more smokes and am trying to find ways to NOT smoke. This really requires an entire rearrangement of my life.
Please understand (those non-smokers out there) that cigarettes are not as easy to give up as one might think. When I was pregnant, I quit cold-turkey, because I had an innocent baby inside of my body. Sadly, this is STILL so surreal that while my mind says I have cancer, I still feel pretty normal. I feel emotionally drained sometimes, but otherwise I'm fine. It's hard to convince myself that I'm "sick" if I don't feel like I am. And if I don't feel like I am sick, it's hard to convince myself to stop a habit that I've had for years (even though it IS gross, and desgusting).
But, on a good note. I am quitting. I'll keep you all updated on that.
Also, I've done some research on things that are bad for those with breast cancer (and those with high risk). Drinking is bad, but if you do have one or two drinks, taking folic acid should actually help "counteract" the effects. Also, organic foods are much better for you because the dairy (sorry, Dad, Uncle Lee, and Uncle Paul) products have hormones in them that are bad for your body. Likewise with most meats these days. Vegetables are better if they're organic, too, because they don't have pesticides on them. Seems like a small thing, but since everything that you normally put into your mouth has pesticides or hormones, it can do some damage to a body that is already at risk. Since hormones are one of the leading factors in causing breast cancer, all of those years of taking birth control pills probably hasn't been a huge help, either. I've got one word for Tim: Vascetomey! lol!
Anyways, that's just a touch of what's going on right now and a little of the research I've found out. My appointment is on Monday, and I'll leave an update after that. Oh, and be sure to check out the blog below this one about Aimee's 3 Day walk for the Cure. Support her and her team! She's doing this not only for me, but for every woman in all of our lives! Mothers, sisters, cousins, aunts, nieces, and so on. Clearly we never know when this will strike someone you love. I'm only 31, and it struck me!
Please understand (those non-smokers out there) that cigarettes are not as easy to give up as one might think. When I was pregnant, I quit cold-turkey, because I had an innocent baby inside of my body. Sadly, this is STILL so surreal that while my mind says I have cancer, I still feel pretty normal. I feel emotionally drained sometimes, but otherwise I'm fine. It's hard to convince myself that I'm "sick" if I don't feel like I am. And if I don't feel like I am sick, it's hard to convince myself to stop a habit that I've had for years (even though it IS gross, and desgusting).
But, on a good note. I am quitting. I'll keep you all updated on that.
Also, I've done some research on things that are bad for those with breast cancer (and those with high risk). Drinking is bad, but if you do have one or two drinks, taking folic acid should actually help "counteract" the effects. Also, organic foods are much better for you because the dairy (sorry, Dad, Uncle Lee, and Uncle Paul) products have hormones in them that are bad for your body. Likewise with most meats these days. Vegetables are better if they're organic, too, because they don't have pesticides on them. Seems like a small thing, but since everything that you normally put into your mouth has pesticides or hormones, it can do some damage to a body that is already at risk. Since hormones are one of the leading factors in causing breast cancer, all of those years of taking birth control pills probably hasn't been a huge help, either. I've got one word for Tim: Vascetomey! lol!
Anyways, that's just a touch of what's going on right now and a little of the research I've found out. My appointment is on Monday, and I'll leave an update after that. Oh, and be sure to check out the blog below this one about Aimee's 3 Day walk for the Cure. Support her and her team! She's doing this not only for me, but for every woman in all of our lives! Mothers, sisters, cousins, aunts, nieces, and so on. Clearly we never know when this will strike someone you love. I'm only 31, and it struck me!
Michigan 2007 3day walk
I recently recieved an amazing e-mail from someone that I went to High School with. It follows:
Brenda,
Last year, I signed up to walk the Michigan 3 day walk to fight breast cancer. I found out about it really late and was unable to raise the $2,200 I had to. However, I was able to raise about $500 that went to the cause. Not great...but it was $500. I decided to walk for my sisters, friends, and mothers...for women as a whole. Last year, breast cancer never touched anyone I knew. This year, it does. And I'm really sad that it does. It would be an honor for me to walk in your name. I know this year will be a struggle for you both physically and emotionally. I would like to dedicate my walk to you, in your name. I will be walking 60 miles in 3 days and raising $2,200 for the fight to find the cure. Let me know if it is okay that I walk in honor of you and your fight. If you like, we could link our blogs up and if you have friends who would like to do something, in honor of you, they could. I know when I read that you had been diagnosed, my initial thought was that I wish I were closer. I would help you care for your beautiful girls, make food for your family....while I am too far away to do that, I can do something. Let me know. I'll send you my website. It would be an honor. XOXO Aimee
So, in order to help her raise money for her walk, go to http://www.the3day.org/site/pp.asp?c=ciKTLcPRLvF&b=297924 Hit the Michigan 2007 3day and search for Aimee Bingham. You can also go to her blog page, which is http://aimeeswalk.blogspot.com Together, we can help Aimee raise money for Breast Cancer awareness. Thanks, Brenda
Brenda,
Last year, I signed up to walk the Michigan 3 day walk to fight breast cancer. I found out about it really late and was unable to raise the $2,200 I had to. However, I was able to raise about $500 that went to the cause. Not great...but it was $500. I decided to walk for my sisters, friends, and mothers...for women as a whole. Last year, breast cancer never touched anyone I knew. This year, it does. And I'm really sad that it does. It would be an honor for me to walk in your name. I know this year will be a struggle for you both physically and emotionally. I would like to dedicate my walk to you, in your name. I will be walking 60 miles in 3 days and raising $2,200 for the fight to find the cure. Let me know if it is okay that I walk in honor of you and your fight. If you like, we could link our blogs up and if you have friends who would like to do something, in honor of you, they could. I know when I read that you had been diagnosed, my initial thought was that I wish I were closer. I would help you care for your beautiful girls, make food for your family....while I am too far away to do that, I can do something. Let me know. I'll send you my website. It would be an honor. XOXO Aimee
So, in order to help her raise money for her walk, go to http://www.the3day.org/site/pp.asp?c=ciKTLcPRLvF&b=297924 Hit the Michigan 2007 3day and search for Aimee Bingham. You can also go to her blog page, which is http://aimeeswalk.blogspot.com Together, we can help Aimee raise money for Breast Cancer awareness. Thanks, Brenda
Dealing with Tricare
Well, Tricare (military insurance) "screwed the pooch" again. Big surprise there. Tim's on a rampage, and I'm worried he's gonna climb a water tower soon. Once we finally got the referral from tricare, we were able to get another appointment, but it's not until Monday. And that's just to talk to the dr. that will be doing the surgery. Won't find out until then when they're actually going to take this thing out of me.
I'm pretty sure the next step is to do the biopsey on my lymph nodes and to stage the cancer. Then, it'll be another surgery to do the removal. I figure I'm looking at another week or so.
I am gonna start slipping some of my prozac into Tim's dinner pretty soon, though. lol, j/k! He's a normal guy... he needs to fix things. Since he can't "fix" my body, he expects the person who can to fix it RIGHT NOW (or, in his words, "yesterday"). So, a lot of my energy is spent trying to calm him down a little. Which is great because it keeps my mind off of ME for a while. lol. But, I feel bad for him, because he's handling it the only way he knows how.
Otherwise, everything is well. I have two good friends that live close by that are helping a lot with the girls by getting them to school and picking them up and so on. Right now, that's the most help I need. After the surgeries, I'm sure it'll be a different story.
The good news is that once people found out that I had cancer, everyone sent love and offerings to help! I know that when some people announce the "C-word" people get scared and stop talking to them. Fortunately, I happen to be an excellent judge of character (if I do say so myself) and all of my friends/family have been more than kind.
So, I'd love to take this moment to thank each and every one of you. I've appreciated all of the phone calls, cards, e-cards, e-mails, hugs, and so on. More than anything, it is reassuring to know that Tim and I aren't doing this alone. It's a very scary time in our lives, and you are all more important than I can possibly express in words. Thank you for all that you've done and will end up doing over the course of the next year.
Oh, one more thing... while I do truely appreciate all of the phone calls, I'm probably going to have my ringer on silent for a while now. I have become overwhelmed with the phone calls. So, if I don't take your call, it's not personal. I'm just losing momentum with explaining to everyone what is going on. The best way to find out will be through my e-mails. This way, I can update everyone all at one time, without having to repeat myself. Please don't take that the wrong way. I love you all. This is just a very emotionally draining time and I have a lot on my mind right now. I'm sure you can understand that. If you do have questions or comments or anything, feel free to e-mail me. This way, I can respond at my leisure, when my mind is in the right place.
Love and huge hugs to you all,
Brenda
I'm pretty sure the next step is to do the biopsey on my lymph nodes and to stage the cancer. Then, it'll be another surgery to do the removal. I figure I'm looking at another week or so.
I am gonna start slipping some of my prozac into Tim's dinner pretty soon, though. lol, j/k! He's a normal guy... he needs to fix things. Since he can't "fix" my body, he expects the person who can to fix it RIGHT NOW (or, in his words, "yesterday"). So, a lot of my energy is spent trying to calm him down a little. Which is great because it keeps my mind off of ME for a while. lol. But, I feel bad for him, because he's handling it the only way he knows how.
Otherwise, everything is well. I have two good friends that live close by that are helping a lot with the girls by getting them to school and picking them up and so on. Right now, that's the most help I need. After the surgeries, I'm sure it'll be a different story.
The good news is that once people found out that I had cancer, everyone sent love and offerings to help! I know that when some people announce the "C-word" people get scared and stop talking to them. Fortunately, I happen to be an excellent judge of character (if I do say so myself) and all of my friends/family have been more than kind.
So, I'd love to take this moment to thank each and every one of you. I've appreciated all of the phone calls, cards, e-cards, e-mails, hugs, and so on. More than anything, it is reassuring to know that Tim and I aren't doing this alone. It's a very scary time in our lives, and you are all more important than I can possibly express in words. Thank you for all that you've done and will end up doing over the course of the next year.
Oh, one more thing... while I do truely appreciate all of the phone calls, I'm probably going to have my ringer on silent for a while now. I have become overwhelmed with the phone calls. So, if I don't take your call, it's not personal. I'm just losing momentum with explaining to everyone what is going on. The best way to find out will be through my e-mails. This way, I can update everyone all at one time, without having to repeat myself. Please don't take that the wrong way. I love you all. This is just a very emotionally draining time and I have a lot on my mind right now. I'm sure you can understand that. If you do have questions or comments or anything, feel free to e-mail me. This way, I can respond at my leisure, when my mind is in the right place.
Love and huge hugs to you all,
Brenda
Warriors in Pink
Looking for a good way to support breast cancer research? Join Ford's Warriors in Pink. This is a link to the press release.
http://media.ford.com/newsroom/release_display.cfm?release=23397
This is a link to the Warriors in Pink website. It has gear that you can buy (and it's cool stuff!) and other information. Christmas is coming up... who wouldn't love to sport one of these cool shirts and other gear!
http://www.fordvehicles.com/warriorsinpink/index.asp
Check it out and help support the cause!!
Love, Brenda
http://media.ford.com/newsroom/release_display.cfm?release=23397
This is a link to the Warriors in Pink website. It has gear that you can buy (and it's cool stuff!) and other information. Christmas is coming up... who wouldn't love to sport one of these cool shirts and other gear!
http://www.fordvehicles.com/warriorsinpink/index.asp
Check it out and help support the cause!!
Love, Brenda
My Update; Surgery
Good morning, everyone.
Some of you may remember about 6 months ago that I had found some lumps in my breast. I got them checked out and they were just little cysts, and were no big deal. Well, a few weeks ago, I found a big lump on that same breast, but didn't panic, because I knew my 6-month check up was coming due. I had the check up, and I was told that the lump that I found was scar tissue....no big deal. BUT, under that were several calcium-like deposits.
The dr. referred me to a hospital out in town (Baptist Medical) and I had an appointment to go over my medical history and my mammograms/sonograms and set a date for a biopsey.
When Baptist re-took my mammo and sonograms, they figured out that it was one lump, NOT scar tissue. The lump turned out to be rather large.
So, I got my biopsy done last Wednesday. They took 6 samples from the one large lump and then drained 2 cysts. Then, the dr. saw on the ultrasound that the gland under my armpit was "unusual" so she took 2 samples of that. They called me on Thursday with the results.
I do have breast cancer.
The technical name for the type I have is Invasive Ductal Carcinoma.
The dr. seemed pretty positive that I should be able to beat this thing, though. She said I have a rough year ahead of me, but hopefully, by this time next year, my life should be back to normal. Apparently the type of cancer I have is one of the most common, so they're not dealing with anything new. She said that I'm carrying an 80% survival rate.
Oh, and the biopsey on my lymph node came back negative, so they sent me to get an MRI done on Friday. They also wanted to get a better idea of the size of the tumor. They piddled around with the results and finally called me yesterday afternoon (Tuesday).
The tumor that I have is larger than they first suspected from the mammograms, and although the origional biopsey on my lymph node came back negative, they said that it still looked irregular. For those who are unfamiliar, the reason they're concerned about this is because if the cancer is contained in just the duct, it should just "roll" out when they remove it. If it has begun to spread, the first place it will go is to my lymph nodes. So, they said that I need to get what's called a Sentinel Node Biopsey done. For those interested in more info, try this link: http://www.cancernews.com/data/Article/202.asp Once you go to that page, scroll down to where they describe the biopsey itself.
So, anyways, after that phone call, the nurse on the base set me up with a consultation appointment to ask/answer questions on Thursday. Once I called Tim and told him that, his reaction was "WHY THURSDAY!" They'd waited 4 days on my MRI results and then found out it's worse than expected, and now they're waiting two more days to do a consultation on thursday??? So, needless to say, he made some phone calls to some important people.
Which leads to why I am writing to you all in a mass e-mail instead of calling everyone individually like I'd origionally planned. I am headed in to work with Tim tomorrow, and as soon as my Dr. on base gets there, he's giving me a referral to go and get this Sentinel Node Biopsey done, and hopefully get the labs back from that ASAP and then get the tumor taken out and the lymph nodes if necessary. Because of the size of the tumor and the fact that cancer can get worse very quickly in younger people (your cells grow at a rapid pace when you're younger, both good cells and bad), we want to get this taken care of as soon as possible.
So, I won't be answering my phone for the next few days, but if anyone would like to call and leave me a message, I will be checking those. Please keep me and my family in your prayers. This is a tough time for us all!
Love, ~Brenda
Some of you may remember about 6 months ago that I had found some lumps in my breast. I got them checked out and they were just little cysts, and were no big deal. Well, a few weeks ago, I found a big lump on that same breast, but didn't panic, because I knew my 6-month check up was coming due. I had the check up, and I was told that the lump that I found was scar tissue....no big deal. BUT, under that were several calcium-like deposits.
The dr. referred me to a hospital out in town (Baptist Medical) and I had an appointment to go over my medical history and my mammograms/sonograms and set a date for a biopsey.
When Baptist re-took my mammo and sonograms, they figured out that it was one lump, NOT scar tissue. The lump turned out to be rather large.
So, I got my biopsy done last Wednesday. They took 6 samples from the one large lump and then drained 2 cysts. Then, the dr. saw on the ultrasound that the gland under my armpit was "unusual" so she took 2 samples of that. They called me on Thursday with the results.
I do have breast cancer.
The technical name for the type I have is Invasive Ductal Carcinoma.
The dr. seemed pretty positive that I should be able to beat this thing, though. She said I have a rough year ahead of me, but hopefully, by this time next year, my life should be back to normal. Apparently the type of cancer I have is one of the most common, so they're not dealing with anything new. She said that I'm carrying an 80% survival rate.
Oh, and the biopsey on my lymph node came back negative, so they sent me to get an MRI done on Friday. They also wanted to get a better idea of the size of the tumor. They piddled around with the results and finally called me yesterday afternoon (Tuesday).
The tumor that I have is larger than they first suspected from the mammograms, and although the origional biopsey on my lymph node came back negative, they said that it still looked irregular. For those who are unfamiliar, the reason they're concerned about this is because if the cancer is contained in just the duct, it should just "roll" out when they remove it. If it has begun to spread, the first place it will go is to my lymph nodes. So, they said that I need to get what's called a Sentinel Node Biopsey done. For those interested in more info, try this link: http://www.cancernews.com/data/Article/202.asp Once you go to that page, scroll down to where they describe the biopsey itself.
So, anyways, after that phone call, the nurse on the base set me up with a consultation appointment to ask/answer questions on Thursday. Once I called Tim and told him that, his reaction was "WHY THURSDAY!" They'd waited 4 days on my MRI results and then found out it's worse than expected, and now they're waiting two more days to do a consultation on thursday??? So, needless to say, he made some phone calls to some important people.
Which leads to why I am writing to you all in a mass e-mail instead of calling everyone individually like I'd origionally planned. I am headed in to work with Tim tomorrow, and as soon as my Dr. on base gets there, he's giving me a referral to go and get this Sentinel Node Biopsey done, and hopefully get the labs back from that ASAP and then get the tumor taken out and the lymph nodes if necessary. Because of the size of the tumor and the fact that cancer can get worse very quickly in younger people (your cells grow at a rapid pace when you're younger, both good cells and bad), we want to get this taken care of as soon as possible.
So, I won't be answering my phone for the next few days, but if anyone would like to call and leave me a message, I will be checking those. Please keep me and my family in your prayers. This is a tough time for us all!
Love, ~Brenda
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