Hello all! I'm out of my place bunking down at my cousin's. Too much fire and smoke for me....I had to go! Kinda crazy to see all this stuff burn. I pray for all those who've lost their homes and pray that mine be spared. Keeps us in your prayers!
Smooches!!!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Saturday, November 15, 2008
It's Gettin' Hot In Here!!!!!
Well just wanted to keep some of you posted. I am sitting here about to start breathing in a paper bag as I watch HELL break loose around me. Yep the fire is about 20 miles from me and I am freaking out!!!!! I am packing up waiting to see which way it is going. So far it doesn't seem to be coming this way....I don't think! The winds are still high so as we all know, fire is unpredictable. There is a really big state park with tons of canyons between me and thee (fire) but just in case, I've packed up some things so I can get the heak outta here!!!! Okay, gotta go track the flames more!
Smooches!
Smooches!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Apologies To All.....But I'm Back!!!
Hey there everyone. Sorry I've been slacking but when I tell you about my normal day I hope you will understand why.
Well as I said before I have started radiation. Actually, I'm halfway done with it! So what is radiation you may ask, how does it make you feel you may ask. Well, radiation is like a really strong x-ray aimed at the place where the tumor was. It is meant to kill any radical cells and make sure all cancer is gone! Side effects are minimal, the rays tend to "burn" the skin somewhat like extreme sunburn. I apply aloe gel and Aquaphor to the site and so far I haven't had any blisters or bad reactions. The site gets a little sore sometimes but all in all it's okay. The bad part is that I go to radiation EVERYDAY! Monday thru Friday so I work all day, drive to radiation which takes about 30 minutes, then my session usually last about 15 mins, then back in rush hour traffic back home. So by the time I get home I'm bushed!
Otherwise I'm doing great. I have found a support group and it's a really good thing. I love it!
So needless to say, things are going well and I will do my best to update this blog at least weekly. If I could access it from work, I would update more often but I can't....IT'S RESTRICTED!!!! Oh well, I will do better I promise!
Thanks again for all your support and prayers!
Smooches
Well as I said before I have started radiation. Actually, I'm halfway done with it! So what is radiation you may ask, how does it make you feel you may ask. Well, radiation is like a really strong x-ray aimed at the place where the tumor was. It is meant to kill any radical cells and make sure all cancer is gone! Side effects are minimal, the rays tend to "burn" the skin somewhat like extreme sunburn. I apply aloe gel and Aquaphor to the site and so far I haven't had any blisters or bad reactions. The site gets a little sore sometimes but all in all it's okay. The bad part is that I go to radiation EVERYDAY! Monday thru Friday so I work all day, drive to radiation which takes about 30 minutes, then my session usually last about 15 mins, then back in rush hour traffic back home. So by the time I get home I'm bushed!
Otherwise I'm doing great. I have found a support group and it's a really good thing. I love it!
So needless to say, things are going well and I will do my best to update this blog at least weekly. If I could access it from work, I would update more often but I can't....IT'S RESTRICTED!!!! Oh well, I will do better I promise!
Thanks again for all your support and prayers!
Smooches
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Back to Work!
Well, I have returned to work and have not gotten used to getting up and going ANYWHERE on a regular basis. I've been trying out different times to see which one works. Oh well, wish me luck. Especially because I've gained weight an most of my clothes don't fit! But I will try to keep up with all the changes. Check back in the next few days, I have to tell you about my newest treatment.
Smooches
Smooches
Friday, October 3, 2008
Algebra Lesson: 2 Negatives=Positive
Well after meeting with both my surgeons, I have received great news. NO MORE CANCER!!! The pathology reports show that the tumor had dissipated (disappeared) and no residual cells remained. No cancer in my ovaries and therefore a positive report of being Cancer free!
I will see my oncologist next week to determine my plan for radiation therapy ( the last and final step). I will go back to work on the 13th, that is if my doctor says it's okay after I see him on Wed. (8th). So all in all.......IT'S ALL GOOD!
Okay, if you have nothing to do, call me! email me! come visit me! I'M BORED!!!!!
Thanks again for everything, all your thoughts & prayers. I can truly feel them covering me everyday!
Smooches
I will see my oncologist next week to determine my plan for radiation therapy ( the last and final step). I will go back to work on the 13th, that is if my doctor says it's okay after I see him on Wed. (8th). So all in all.......IT'S ALL GOOD!
Okay, if you have nothing to do, call me! email me! come visit me! I'M BORED!!!!!
Thanks again for everything, all your thoughts & prayers. I can truly feel them covering me everyday!
Smooches
Thursday, October 2, 2008
1st Report
I saw my gyno-surgeon on Tuesday because of a small infection in one of my incisions. The doctor said it was superficial and had not gotten deep into the wound so it was ok. He gave me an antibiotic and showed my mom how to pack the wound and wants to see me back in a week. He also gave me the pathology report which said there was no cancer or anything in my ovaries. There was something (a dermoid tumor) which is benign and would may have caused an issue later (much later) but that was all. Good report all in all! He released me to drive again if when I got in the car, I could jerk the wheel hard and slam on the break without it hurting. So, needless to say I'm driving. I'm not taking any narcotic pain meds so it's pretty safe for me to drive. As for work, he wants me to wait, I have to follow-up with him next week so I won't go to work until then. Oh, well! He reminded me that although my incisions were relatively small, I really did have major surgery, so in other words....SIT YO' ASS DOWN SOMEWHERE! He also reminded me that I had 6 weeks off. However, I'm bored at home but the most important issue is that I don't get paid for 6 weeks off this time so I NEED to go back to work. He said since I can sit at my desk or table & I don't do a lot of lifting and such I could go back to work after I see him on Wed. So I look forward to that.
I go to see my breast surgeon today so look for another update later today or tomorrow.
Also if you live in the area, check the news frequently to make sure a woman wasn't found wondering aimlessly through Chino Hills saying, I just need to get away!!!! My mom is still here and my Grandma came in on Tuesday and she has been watching me like a hungry eagle (nope not a hawk) telling me to not lift this, don't do that, if I take a Tylenol she wants to know what hurts! EVERYTHING I JUST HAD SURGERY!!!! But of course I can't say that without a trip to the ER or something so I just don't say anything. And for those of you who read this and will take to her, if you mention it I will deny it and say you must be going nuts!!!!!
Okay that's if for now!
SMOOCHES!!!
I go to see my breast surgeon today so look for another update later today or tomorrow.
Also if you live in the area, check the news frequently to make sure a woman wasn't found wondering aimlessly through Chino Hills saying, I just need to get away!!!! My mom is still here and my Grandma came in on Tuesday and she has been watching me like a hungry eagle (nope not a hawk) telling me to not lift this, don't do that, if I take a Tylenol she wants to know what hurts! EVERYTHING I JUST HAD SURGERY!!!! But of course I can't say that without a trip to the ER or something so I just don't say anything. And for those of you who read this and will take to her, if you mention it I will deny it and say you must be going nuts!!!!!
Okay that's if for now!
SMOOCHES!!!
Monday, September 29, 2008
Surgery Complete!
Well.......I'M BACK!!!!
I had surgery on Sept. 17th as scheduled. The lumpectomy was done using a guide wire that had to be put in with x-ray because there was pretty much nothing left to the tumor. The a dissection of my lymph node was down with no cancer cells found so that means....I'M OFFICIALLY CANCER FREE!!!!! A SURVIVOR some would say!!!!
The ufferectomy was done laproscopically so all surgeries done with the least invasiveness possible. So that also means I got to go home the next day with some instructions and great pain meds.
I'm still a little sore from surgery but recovering pretty well. I have a couple dr.'s appts. this week so I will update soon.
My mom is here now and has been taking great care of me, especially since I can't drive or lift too much. My grandmother will be here tomorrow so more TLC for me!
More updates later!
Thanks to all of you who have sent cards and get well wishes and of course thanks to ALL for the prayers. God is moving here!
Smooches!!!
I had surgery on Sept. 17th as scheduled. The lumpectomy was done using a guide wire that had to be put in with x-ray because there was pretty much nothing left to the tumor. The a dissection of my lymph node was down with no cancer cells found so that means....I'M OFFICIALLY CANCER FREE!!!!! A SURVIVOR some would say!!!!
The ufferectomy was done laproscopically so all surgeries done with the least invasiveness possible. So that also means I got to go home the next day with some instructions and great pain meds.
I'm still a little sore from surgery but recovering pretty well. I have a couple dr.'s appts. this week so I will update soon.
My mom is here now and has been taking great care of me, especially since I can't drive or lift too much. My grandmother will be here tomorrow so more TLC for me!
More updates later!
Thanks to all of you who have sent cards and get well wishes and of course thanks to ALL for the prayers. God is moving here!
Smooches!!!
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
The Next Step!!!
So I am ready for the next step, which is surgery.....um ok that's kinda scary! I have only been in the hospital once for dehydration when I was in college. Otherwise no other illness to speak of before this...well not really. I am not really nervous now even though it's exactly 2 weeks from today probably because I am sooo tired. I went back to work and working as hard as I can before I won't be able to work. However, I did get some good news that I won't be out as long as I was initially told, 2 weeks, that's great!!!!
Anywho........Mom will be in Tuesday so the countdown begins. I have been sooo busy I haven't had time to think about any of this which is pretty good since I may freak out if all I had to do was sit and worry. But since I don't.....I won't!
Again Surgery is on the 17th, I have a Pre-Op appt. tomorrow. This will be blood work, EKG, and a bunch of other test to make sure my heart and other organs are okay and it's cool to do surgery. I guess I should be charging my iPod so I will have something to do during all this. I got a good book so I should be fine.
So some may be asking what's after surgery..........well me too! No really it's Radiation therapy . I will have about 4 weeks off after surgery and then 6 weeks of radiation. I will receive radiation everyday (5 days a week, no radiation on the weekends!) for 6weeks. This will be a treat, driving from Chino to Duarte EVERYDAY!!!! It's not that's it's that far away, just that the traffic to get there will be brutal!!!! Well, I'm trying to watch the game so I guess I will go watch the game and get ready for my week.
I'm working a lot but I will try to get on here again sometime this week.
Thanks to all for your thoughts and prayers!
Luv Ya'll
Smooches!
Anywho........Mom will be in Tuesday so the countdown begins. I have been sooo busy I haven't had time to think about any of this which is pretty good since I may freak out if all I had to do was sit and worry. But since I don't.....I won't!
Again Surgery is on the 17th, I have a Pre-Op appt. tomorrow. This will be blood work, EKG, and a bunch of other test to make sure my heart and other organs are okay and it's cool to do surgery. I guess I should be charging my iPod so I will have something to do during all this. I got a good book so I should be fine.
So some may be asking what's after surgery..........well me too! No really it's Radiation therapy . I will have about 4 weeks off after surgery and then 6 weeks of radiation. I will receive radiation everyday (5 days a week, no radiation on the weekends!) for 6weeks. This will be a treat, driving from Chino to Duarte EVERYDAY!!!! It's not that's it's that far away, just that the traffic to get there will be brutal!!!! Well, I'm trying to watch the game so I guess I will go watch the game and get ready for my week.
I'm working a lot but I will try to get on here again sometime this week.
Thanks to all for your thoughts and prayers!
Luv Ya'll
Smooches!
Monday, September 1, 2008
The Last Dance
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Surgery Scheduled
Well, my last chemo treatment will be in a couple days!!!! Halelujah!!!! So here we go with the next step.....Surgery.
My surgery date is set of Sept. 17th. I will have a lumpectomy and ufferectomy and will be home for a few weeks......phone calls, emails and visits will be welcome to keep me from going NUTS!!!!! I will only be out like 4 weeks ( I hope.....keep your fingers crossed) because I think I will go bonkers if I'm not allowed to do anything longer than 2 weeks plus not being able to go to work is gonna kill me (with bordom & financially....all donations welcome!!! =)
So that's the update for now, I'll be writing again soon and adding a few pics so come back soon now... ya' hear!!!!
Smooches!
My surgery date is set of Sept. 17th. I will have a lumpectomy and ufferectomy and will be home for a few weeks......phone calls, emails and visits will be welcome to keep me from going NUTS!!!!! I will only be out like 4 weeks ( I hope.....keep your fingers crossed) because I think I will go bonkers if I'm not allowed to do anything longer than 2 weeks plus not being able to go to work is gonna kill me (with bordom & financially....all donations welcome!!! =)
So that's the update for now, I'll be writing again soon and adding a few pics so come back soon now... ya' hear!!!!
Smooches!
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Spell Check
Yeah, chemo makes my brain a little fuzzy so I don't focus very well. That being said, forgive the typeos, I forgot to spell check!
#5 is a Killa!!!
WOW! This fifth treatment has really got me down! Well first, they changed my treatment day (not happy about that) so I was in on Monday, but I started getting sick on Sunday. My doctor and nurses said I am having anticipatory nausea. Whatever it is it sucks. It also get a little sick when I see, hear, or think of things that remind me of chemo. So I'm getting a little nauseous just writing this entry!
Well, the tumor is pretty much undetectable without an unltrasound or something! Yippee!!! That's the good news, but my doctor told me that my platelets were low so I am a little anemic. I assume that may be why I haven 't been able to bounce back as fast as I usually do. My aunt brought me some greens today but I need to eat more spinach (raw) red meat, and beets (not happening!!!!) So I will be trying to eat some steak & spinach tomorrow I guess.
I have really been down this time, I've been in bed since Tuesday most of the time. I have been kidnapped a few days by the James' but mostly in bed. Another factor may be the boxes stacked all around, I want to unpack but I really don't have the strength. Today I actually felt like pulling a few things out of boxes but it would last about 20 mins and I would have to hit the couch for about an hour! I also need to hit the grocery store but I have enough to last a few more days (Mama don't worry) but it is getting low!!! I barely have the energy to walk around my kitchen, I know I can't go shopping yet. But it will get done. I hope to go to church tomorrow and I'm sure I will feel better by next week.
This is the final countdown........ONE MORE TO GO!!!!!!!
Doctor's appointments starting next week, I'll keep you informed.
Smooches!
Well, the tumor is pretty much undetectable without an unltrasound or something! Yippee!!! That's the good news, but my doctor told me that my platelets were low so I am a little anemic. I assume that may be why I haven 't been able to bounce back as fast as I usually do. My aunt brought me some greens today but I need to eat more spinach (raw) red meat, and beets (not happening!!!!) So I will be trying to eat some steak & spinach tomorrow I guess.
I have really been down this time, I've been in bed since Tuesday most of the time. I have been kidnapped a few days by the James' but mostly in bed. Another factor may be the boxes stacked all around, I want to unpack but I really don't have the strength. Today I actually felt like pulling a few things out of boxes but it would last about 20 mins and I would have to hit the couch for about an hour! I also need to hit the grocery store but I have enough to last a few more days (Mama don't worry) but it is getting low!!! I barely have the energy to walk around my kitchen, I know I can't go shopping yet. But it will get done. I hope to go to church tomorrow and I'm sure I will feel better by next week.
This is the final countdown........ONE MORE TO GO!!!!!!!
Doctor's appointments starting next week, I'll keep you informed.
Smooches!
New Place Update
This place is great! Although I haven't felt like doing much, I know that it will be great when my mom and grandma comes. Enough space to keep us from sitting on top of each other! Again, anyone who wants to unpack a box or two you are more than welcome to stop by next week!
Saturday, August 2, 2008
My New Place
All I have to say is Greg B. rocks!!!!! I say this because he is the man responsible for my paychecks and my housing arrangements. If you don't know I'm a travel therapist, meaning I move for every assignment to a new place close to the area of my assignment. This is usually a 1 bedroom fully furnished apartment. Well, when my mom was here during the initial part of this journey it was she & I in a 1 bedroom............real close quarters!!!! Well, this time God and Greg made some things happen. I had gotten my initial assignment for an apartment but about a week later Greg sent me an email not to get to attached to that address, the previous renters decided to stay. So he sent me my new address and I was like cool. I called a few days to make arrangements to move in and they informed that I have a 2 bedroom, 1 bath!!!!! YIPPEEE!!!!! Since mom is staying another month like before this is great, she will be able to have her own space. Plus it makes it easier when all of ya'll come out to visit me this year, right!!!! The apartment manager quickly informed me it was only because that's all they had and gave my company a better deal (that was God working) so if you work for SOS this is NOT the norm! But sometimes God has other plans for you!!! My company only furnishes one bedroom but with an air mattress and a few of those storage drawer things it will all work out great!
I want to thank EVERYONE at SOS for all their support and great cards and gifts. I am a truly lucky person in that I love the company I work for. They are a great group of people who really care about their employees. I will recommend them to anyone who is interested.
Any OT, PT or SLP out there looking for a change, holla at your girl, I will hook you up!!! And if you don't know what those letters stand for, no offense but, this obviously wasn't meant for you. :-)
Smooches
I want to thank EVERYONE at SOS for all their support and great cards and gifts. I am a truly lucky person in that I love the company I work for. They are a great group of people who really care about their employees. I will recommend them to anyone who is interested.
Any OT, PT or SLP out there looking for a change, holla at your girl, I will hook you up!!! And if you don't know what those letters stand for, no offense but, this obviously wasn't meant for you. :-)
Smooches
Medical Updates
Oops! I forgot to put the medical stuff in the last entry. Well, my oncologist said "I can't find the damn thing" in my last check up. That's great! Since the last time we "spoke" I say my surgeon as well. My surgery will be approximately 2 weeks after my last chemo treatment, in other words the 2nd or 3rd week in September. I will have a mammogram & ultrasounds on the 21st and meet with my surgeon to establish exactly what will happen and the exact date of my surgery. Of course I will keep you posted.
I wasn't sure if I wanted to share all this info, but what the hell......ya'll know all my business anyway!!!
After meeting with the genetic counselor and having all the test, it was confirmed that I am BRCA1 positive. I spoke about this before, but again it's the gene that makes me predisposed to breast & ovarian cancer. There were several options laid out for me but I chose to have the lumpectomy and offarectomy (don't have my medical dictionary here so that may not be the right spelling!!!). In other words, they will that the remaining tissue from around the marker they placed in my breast for precautionary measure and my ovaries will be removed for preventative measures. So I now I have the perfect excuse to be a bitch!!!! LOL oops I forget to keep this thing censored! Oh well, ya'll know me I slip up every now and again.
I will have more info on all this after I meet with all the surgeons and stuff.
As for my next treatment, it was supposed to be on Wednesday, the 6th but I'm pretty pissed right now because they changed my date to Monday the 4th. Normally this wouldn't be a big deal but I was supposed to move into my new apartment on that date. I only found out Friday afternoon so now I have to make other arrangements for help moving and even gaining possession of the apartment. I think I should be done with chemo in time but it just makes things really in convenient for me and those who normally help me out. We had a system and now that's all blown to heck! So anyone reading this that's out here with me, give me a call, especially if you have a truck!!!
So that's all I know now.
Smooches
I wasn't sure if I wanted to share all this info, but what the hell......ya'll know all my business anyway!!!
After meeting with the genetic counselor and having all the test, it was confirmed that I am BRCA1 positive. I spoke about this before, but again it's the gene that makes me predisposed to breast & ovarian cancer. There were several options laid out for me but I chose to have the lumpectomy and offarectomy (don't have my medical dictionary here so that may not be the right spelling!!!). In other words, they will that the remaining tissue from around the marker they placed in my breast for precautionary measure and my ovaries will be removed for preventative measures. So I now I have the perfect excuse to be a bitch!!!! LOL oops I forget to keep this thing censored! Oh well, ya'll know me I slip up every now and again.
I will have more info on all this after I meet with all the surgeons and stuff.
As for my next treatment, it was supposed to be on Wednesday, the 6th but I'm pretty pissed right now because they changed my date to Monday the 4th. Normally this wouldn't be a big deal but I was supposed to move into my new apartment on that date. I only found out Friday afternoon so now I have to make other arrangements for help moving and even gaining possession of the apartment. I think I should be done with chemo in time but it just makes things really in convenient for me and those who normally help me out. We had a system and now that's all blown to heck! So anyone reading this that's out here with me, give me a call, especially if you have a truck!!!
So that's all I know now.
Smooches
Chemo to Go!!!
Well, I'm not sure how great this idea was but the day after chemo I flew out to Orlando. There was no way I was gonna miss my family reunion. Just for the record, I slept most of the flight but I will say that I will NEVER fly Spirit Air again. THEY SUCK!!!!!! They charge for everything, no wonder the tickets are so cheap, and they want you to clean the plane!!!! I'm not sure but I think you have to pay to pee! Okay, that may have been too much but it was pretty damn bad. Not to mention the drunkards sitting next to me that had to pee 10 times during out flight. But I survived!
It was really good to see my family and know that they are all praying for me! I want to ask that you send special prayers up for my cousin Dalton Short as he is fighting this cancer thing as well. He is a trooper but as with all of us his days are good and bad but it was soo good to see him and his family. I really felt blessed to see them all.
It was also good to see my friend Misty. She was my rock in Orlando those few years I was there and she remains the same! We always pick right up where we left off the time before.
Well, no need for like day to day occurances in my vacation, just know that I got to see some special people in my life. Spent my days doing a whole lot of NOTHING!!!!! It was great. I hung out with my folks so they got to see me come back from chemo to the nearly normal me I always am. I hope that put some minds at ease. And for those who didn't see me enough, the planes still fly this way too! Come on out, I'd love the company!!!!
Well 2 more treatments and I'm done with this chemo stuff!
More later, smooches!
It was really good to see my family and know that they are all praying for me! I want to ask that you send special prayers up for my cousin Dalton Short as he is fighting this cancer thing as well. He is a trooper but as with all of us his days are good and bad but it was soo good to see him and his family. I really felt blessed to see them all.
It was also good to see my friend Misty. She was my rock in Orlando those few years I was there and she remains the same! We always pick right up where we left off the time before.
Well, no need for like day to day occurances in my vacation, just know that I got to see some special people in my life. Spent my days doing a whole lot of NOTHING!!!!! It was great. I hung out with my folks so they got to see me come back from chemo to the nearly normal me I always am. I hope that put some minds at ease. And for those who didn't see me enough, the planes still fly this way too! Come on out, I'd love the company!!!!
Well 2 more treatments and I'm done with this chemo stuff!
More later, smooches!
Friday, July 11, 2008
Olympic Dreams Dashed!!!!
Well, I can say that I will NOT be participating in this years Olympic Games! I have tested positive for steroids!!!! I apologize to all my fans for any disappointment I may have caused. In my defense, it is a part of my treatment so please understand!!!
Hahaha! So those of you who don't know me, you have to know that the only competition that I may be eligible for is.............well, that would be NONE!!!!
I was a little upset that I haven't loss any weight but they give you all these drugs and steroids to make you eat, hence the gaining of 5-10 lbs!!!!! I'm pissed, I was looking forward to the weight loss!!!!
Just thoughts!
B
Hahaha! So those of you who don't know me, you have to know that the only competition that I may be eligible for is.............well, that would be NONE!!!!
I was a little upset that I haven't loss any weight but they give you all these drugs and steroids to make you eat, hence the gaining of 5-10 lbs!!!!! I'm pissed, I was looking forward to the weight loss!!!!
Just thoughts!
B
Thursday, July 10, 2008
I'm Shrinking!!!!!
Hello everyone!
Well, the 3rd chemo was pretty OK. Just tired as usual. I moved before and after chemo so I was a little more tired than normal but I bounced back after Tuesday!
On Monday, I had another biopsy. It was not the most pleasant experience but there was good news that came from it. The tech and the doctor performing the biopsy had some difficulty finding the tumor!!!! You could see the initial ultrasound pictures on one screen and compared to the new pictures. It was really dramatic! The doctor was like, it shrank like 8-10 times of the initial tumor. Today I met with my surgeon and he said that the tumor is now like 1cm or less! That's a great thing. I will be having surgery like two weeks after my last chemo session which will be Aug. 27th. Yep the day before my birthday, that sucks! But hey ain't that something to celebrate when I can!!!!
Okay, that's it for now.
Thanks of course for all the love and prayers.
I'll Holla!!!
Well, the 3rd chemo was pretty OK. Just tired as usual. I moved before and after chemo so I was a little more tired than normal but I bounced back after Tuesday!
On Monday, I had another biopsy. It was not the most pleasant experience but there was good news that came from it. The tech and the doctor performing the biopsy had some difficulty finding the tumor!!!! You could see the initial ultrasound pictures on one screen and compared to the new pictures. It was really dramatic! The doctor was like, it shrank like 8-10 times of the initial tumor. Today I met with my surgeon and he said that the tumor is now like 1cm or less! That's a great thing. I will be having surgery like two weeks after my last chemo session which will be Aug. 27th. Yep the day before my birthday, that sucks! But hey ain't that something to celebrate when I can!!!!
Okay, that's it for now.
Thanks of course for all the love and prayers.
I'll Holla!!!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
3rd Times the Charm!!!
I know, this is very close to the 2nd chemo entry, but what else is there to do during chemo?
So I saw my doctor today and he was very happy that he could hardly feel any tumor, and believe me he was very thorough in his exam. He said that I was flying through pretty good!
So here we go again. I have taken great efforts to get everything packed up before today. I think I did a pretty good job except for the clothes I wore yesterday and the sheets, towels and shower curtain. I have great help to finish this and pack my car!
As for arrangements for the next few days, I will be staying with the Harvey’s, these are great folks. I don’t know who adopted who first but these are another aunt & uncle to add to my list out here! She insisted that I stay with them the next few days and I will go to my cousin’s this weekend. So maybe the mother-like figure will help me get on my feet a little better!
I am currently hooked up to my last infusion so I can bust outta this joint in about 30 mins. Now that the move is about done, school is out and I only work when I feel like it, I will be blogging a LOT more! So check me out a little more frequently. I promise to respond to all comments in a timely fashion and everything. However, give me a couple days because I don’t have a wireless connection until I get to my cousin’s house!
Thanks again for all your prayers and I would like to ask you all to add my coworker who is going through a recurrence of ovarian cancer. She is a strong lady who was a great inspiration to me! So say a special prayer for Charlotte Defeo. Of course keep up the prayers for me and keep sending those positive vibes!
Being the fliest bald chick you know!!!!
Smooches!
So I saw my doctor today and he was very happy that he could hardly feel any tumor, and believe me he was very thorough in his exam. He said that I was flying through pretty good!
So here we go again. I have taken great efforts to get everything packed up before today. I think I did a pretty good job except for the clothes I wore yesterday and the sheets, towels and shower curtain. I have great help to finish this and pack my car!
As for arrangements for the next few days, I will be staying with the Harvey’s, these are great folks. I don’t know who adopted who first but these are another aunt & uncle to add to my list out here! She insisted that I stay with them the next few days and I will go to my cousin’s this weekend. So maybe the mother-like figure will help me get on my feet a little better!
I am currently hooked up to my last infusion so I can bust outta this joint in about 30 mins. Now that the move is about done, school is out and I only work when I feel like it, I will be blogging a LOT more! So check me out a little more frequently. I promise to respond to all comments in a timely fashion and everything. However, give me a couple days because I don’t have a wireless connection until I get to my cousin’s house!
Thanks again for all your prayers and I would like to ask you all to add my coworker who is going through a recurrence of ovarian cancer. She is a strong lady who was a great inspiration to me! So say a special prayer for Charlotte Defeo. Of course keep up the prayers for me and keep sending those positive vibes!
Being the fliest bald chick you know!!!!
Smooches!
Bella vs The Volcano
Well this was my first chemo without my Mama! So I go it alone! I went to my appointments, got my blood work done, saw the doctor. This was not my usual doctor because they were all at some conference. While doing my exam she had to ask me where the tumor was and when I tried to show her, I could hardly find it. So guess what, THE CHEMO IS WORKING!!!!!
As for afterwards, my friend Cynthia stayed with me but all I did was sleep mostly, all she had to do was warm up food from Mimi’s and make me noodles. That’s it! But it was nice to know someone was there. The next day was a little harder, no one there to cook and make me eat. When Mama was here she would cook and fix me sandwiches and noodles as soon as I would stir so I was always eating something with helped with the nausea. This time no one was there to force jello and great sandwiches on me so I was a little more nauseous this time. But I had a little help from good friends who got me some “other” methods of anti-nausea products and it helped! My nurse also gave me info for a clinic in LA for medical cannabis which is great for nausea and helping with sleep. Sleep has been an issue but I try to stay busy so I will be really tired when it’s bed time!
I can’t go on with this without mentioning my Angel. My Pastor, Dwight Peace, called frequently, but on
Saturday after chemo he shows up on my doorstep with food in hand. He came in to a mess, my kitchen was trashed from me throwing things together but too tired to clean it all up. So he rolled up his sleeves, fixed my plate, washed dishes, and put things back in order. It was like I was dreaming! I would arouse a little and he would be hard at work! The food was good but the service was better! He sent me dinner the next day and it was all delicious! The Peace family calls to check on my frequently until they get the answering machine and know that I’m okay! My South Hills Presbyterian Church Family Rocks!!!
It took me a little longer to bounce back this time but I think it was because I wasn’t eating as much. Mama’s have a way of making you feel better too! I went back to work on Monday but I was sooo tired, but my friends at work made it easy, plus they sent a sub to help out with some things that weren’t done while I was out so I helped!
Well I didn’t say this in the beginning, but thank you for all the support, prayers and words of encouragement.
For those who responded to my blogs, I appreciate the kind words. I didn’t reply to them because by the time I figured out I had replies too much time had passed but I will reply now that school is out!
Take care, women check the boobs, men check the ba…(oops my pastor reads this), keep praying and sending me those inspirational vibes.
Me!
As for afterwards, my friend Cynthia stayed with me but all I did was sleep mostly, all she had to do was warm up food from Mimi’s and make me noodles. That’s it! But it was nice to know someone was there. The next day was a little harder, no one there to cook and make me eat. When Mama was here she would cook and fix me sandwiches and noodles as soon as I would stir so I was always eating something with helped with the nausea. This time no one was there to force jello and great sandwiches on me so I was a little more nauseous this time. But I had a little help from good friends who got me some “other” methods of anti-nausea products and it helped! My nurse also gave me info for a clinic in LA for medical cannabis which is great for nausea and helping with sleep. Sleep has been an issue but I try to stay busy so I will be really tired when it’s bed time!
I can’t go on with this without mentioning my Angel. My Pastor, Dwight Peace, called frequently, but on
Saturday after chemo he shows up on my doorstep with food in hand. He came in to a mess, my kitchen was trashed from me throwing things together but too tired to clean it all up. So he rolled up his sleeves, fixed my plate, washed dishes, and put things back in order. It was like I was dreaming! I would arouse a little and he would be hard at work! The food was good but the service was better! He sent me dinner the next day and it was all delicious! The Peace family calls to check on my frequently until they get the answering machine and know that I’m okay! My South Hills Presbyterian Church Family Rocks!!!
It took me a little longer to bounce back this time but I think it was because I wasn’t eating as much. Mama’s have a way of making you feel better too! I went back to work on Monday but I was sooo tired, but my friends at work made it easy, plus they sent a sub to help out with some things that weren’t done while I was out so I helped!
Well I didn’t say this in the beginning, but thank you for all the support, prayers and words of encouragement.
For those who responded to my blogs, I appreciate the kind words. I didn’t reply to them because by the time I figured out I had replies too much time had passed but I will reply now that school is out!
Take care, women check the boobs, men check the ba…(oops my pastor reads this), keep praying and sending me those inspirational vibes.
Me!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
The Wedding
The highlight of my year was just what I needed. A whole weekend that was not focused on me or cancer. It was all about Tammy & Ed!!!! The wedding was beautiful and fun. It was truly what I needed! With all I've been through the last few months was what I was looking forward to most! It gave me a release and if you ask anyone who attended the wedding, THAT'S JUST WHAT I DID!!!! I felt like me! I laughed, I sang, I danced and I enjoyed the people I love!
Thank you Tammy & Ed for letting me be a part of your special day, it meant a lot to be able to be there and take part. There was a time others doubted that I would be able to be there, I NEVER DID!
For my friends who stopped by to see me while I was home, thanks! It was great seeing you! Sorry I didn't get to see others. I will try to make it home this summer for a short trip.
As always, thanks for the prayers and well wishes.
Outtie 5000 (when is the last time you heard that one!!!)
B
Thank you Tammy & Ed for letting me be a part of your special day, it meant a lot to be able to be there and take part. There was a time others doubted that I would be able to be there, I NEVER DID!
For my friends who stopped by to see me while I was home, thanks! It was great seeing you! Sorry I didn't get to see others. I will try to make it home this summer for a short trip.
As always, thanks for the prayers and well wishes.
Outtie 5000 (when is the last time you heard that one!!!)
B
Friday, May 23, 2008
Feeling Fine & Doing Fine
Hi Guys!
Well I am doing sooo much better now. I have gone back to work and am truly feeling almost normal. One of my coworkers said today "Nina you really look normal!" I said only now would I take this as a compliment. I knew what she meant.
I was out until Tuesday. But I went back to work and now I really do feel pretty much normal again. I have learned to slow down and not rush around and just take my time which is a great excuse if I forgot to do something!!! Oops, I forgot my boss may be reading this, just kidding I would never use excuses!!!! ;-)
So now some of you want to know how I felt. Well I have no words for it. I've never felt that bad before. The day after chemo was like a really bad hangover, but the days that followed............again I have no words. My body ached, I was sick to my stomach and didn't want to eat (now you know I must have been really sick!!!!) just sleep when I could. But by Tuesday I was just tired.
The only lingering issue is killer heartburn which is an effect of chemo but my doctor adjusted some meds and it's much better!
When I get a little too eager my body reminds me to sit my booty down! But all in all it's pretty good.
I look forward to seeing some of you next week. I will be home Thursday evening but please be aware, I am coming home for a wedding so Friday evening & Saturday belong to Tammy & Ed!!!!
I also met with my geneticist on Monday. The test revealed that...................................
I AM A MUTANT!!!!!!!! Okay seriously, I do have a mutation in the last letter of the last strand of my DNA or BRCA1 positive. If that makes sense to any of you. In other words I am predisposed to have breast and ovarian cancer. So now I have some other decisions to make!
Well that's all for now! Hope to see some of you, talk to others and just know that everyone else is thinking about me!
Smooches!
N
Well I am doing sooo much better now. I have gone back to work and am truly feeling almost normal. One of my coworkers said today "Nina you really look normal!" I said only now would I take this as a compliment. I knew what she meant.
I was out until Tuesday. But I went back to work and now I really do feel pretty much normal again. I have learned to slow down and not rush around and just take my time which is a great excuse if I forgot to do something!!! Oops, I forgot my boss may be reading this, just kidding I would never use excuses!!!! ;-)
So now some of you want to know how I felt. Well I have no words for it. I've never felt that bad before. The day after chemo was like a really bad hangover, but the days that followed............again I have no words. My body ached, I was sick to my stomach and didn't want to eat (now you know I must have been really sick!!!!) just sleep when I could. But by Tuesday I was just tired.
The only lingering issue is killer heartburn which is an effect of chemo but my doctor adjusted some meds and it's much better!
When I get a little too eager my body reminds me to sit my booty down! But all in all it's pretty good.
I look forward to seeing some of you next week. I will be home Thursday evening but please be aware, I am coming home for a wedding so Friday evening & Saturday belong to Tammy & Ed!!!!
I also met with my geneticist on Monday. The test revealed that...................................
I AM A MUTANT!!!!!!!! Okay seriously, I do have a mutation in the last letter of the last strand of my DNA or BRCA1 positive. If that makes sense to any of you. In other words I am predisposed to have breast and ovarian cancer. So now I have some other decisions to make!
Well that's all for now! Hope to see some of you, talk to others and just know that everyone else is thinking about me!
Smooches!
N
Monday, May 19, 2008
Hello all!
Well I can say that I wasn't expecting this! I'm not sure if it is just chemo or a combo of all the things that I had last week but I am truly wiped out. I appreciate all those who have called to check on me. I will hopefully feel a little better in a couple days.
I'm really tired but still in pretty good spirits.
Thanks again for all your prayers and support!
Well I can say that I wasn't expecting this! I'm not sure if it is just chemo or a combo of all the things that I had last week but I am truly wiped out. I appreciate all those who have called to check on me. I will hopefully feel a little better in a couple days.
I'm really tired but still in pretty good spirits.
Thanks again for all your prayers and support!
Monday, May 12, 2008
New Major Updates
Well here we go.....things have really started moving!
Well today I learned that I will be starting chemo on Wednesday. So here's a look at my week!
Tuesday: Marker clip placement which will mark the site of the tumor so that when the tumor shrinks, the surgeon will know exactly where to operate. There is a possibility that the tumor will shrink too small to see but I will still have to have surgery to make sure all margins are removed which lessens the possibility of recurrence.
I will also have some additional biopsies, these are for research purposes. I decided to take part in the research study. I figure I'm going to take chemo now anyway, I may as well try to help someone else later!!!!
Wednesday: Blood work, meet with the oncologist, then start chemo. I knew kinda figured my chemo would start this week but I wasn't looking at Wednesday!!!! But it's cool, I am just stressing about getting some work done, I hadn't planned to be out 3 days and I have tons of IEPs to write and meetings to miss (oh darn!!!!). But the paperwork will be there!
Thursday: I will still have the portacatheter placed on Thursday, and also I will be getting a booster for my immune system.
Friday: I WILL BE IN THE BED!!!!!
Things are really rolling now so we are well on the way to healing!!! I will try to blog throughout the week just to let you know how I'm feeling.
Thanks again for all your prayers, support and kind words. Please keep them all coming!
Love Ya
Smooches!!!!
Well today I learned that I will be starting chemo on Wednesday. So here's a look at my week!
Tuesday: Marker clip placement which will mark the site of the tumor so that when the tumor shrinks, the surgeon will know exactly where to operate. There is a possibility that the tumor will shrink too small to see but I will still have to have surgery to make sure all margins are removed which lessens the possibility of recurrence.
I will also have some additional biopsies, these are for research purposes. I decided to take part in the research study. I figure I'm going to take chemo now anyway, I may as well try to help someone else later!!!!
Wednesday: Blood work, meet with the oncologist, then start chemo. I knew kinda figured my chemo would start this week but I wasn't looking at Wednesday!!!! But it's cool, I am just stressing about getting some work done, I hadn't planned to be out 3 days and I have tons of IEPs to write and meetings to miss (oh darn!!!!). But the paperwork will be there!
Thursday: I will still have the portacatheter placed on Thursday, and also I will be getting a booster for my immune system.
Friday: I WILL BE IN THE BED!!!!!
Things are really rolling now so we are well on the way to healing!!! I will try to blog throughout the week just to let you know how I'm feeling.
Thanks again for all your prayers, support and kind words. Please keep them all coming!
Love Ya
Smooches!!!!
FYI
Just FYI for some of you who know that I have had all these test........these are medical test that many people look at to interpret so in other words.
THESE ARE NOT DRUG STORE PREGNANCY TEST!!!!!! I NEVER GET THE RESULTS BACK IN 10 MINUTES!!!!
LOL
Smooches!!!!
THESE ARE NOT DRUG STORE PREGNANCY TEST!!!!!! I NEVER GET THE RESULTS BACK IN 10 MINUTES!!!!
LOL
Smooches!!!!
5/9 Updates
5/9/08
Hello there my favorite people!!! Well, I can truly say that I have had almost every test I have heard of!!! I got so much radioactive stuff pumped into me and was put under so many gamma rays, I feel like if you make me too angry I may turn pink and start rippin’ s*** up!!!!
Anywho! So I have finally made a decision of what path my treatment will take from this point. After long deliberation with my medical team I have decided to start with chemotherapy first.
I don’t know when I will begin chemo, I meet with my oncologist on Wednesday. I will then have a port catheter placed under my collar bone on Thursday so they won’t have to continue to stick me for everything!!! The port should be somewhat undetectable but it will be there. I will have chemo every three weeks for about six months. However, my surgeon says that if the tumor is not responding enough in two months, he will do surgery then. My surgeon agrees that this is a good way to do treatment, so I feel confident that this was the right decision. The reason for starting chemo first is to shrink the tumor, not like it’s HUGE, like I stated before, but the smaller the tumor the less invasive the surgery. So it’s all good!
Okay that’s all for now but I’m sure there is more to come soon!
Love ya!
Hello there my favorite people!!! Well, I can truly say that I have had almost every test I have heard of!!! I got so much radioactive stuff pumped into me and was put under so many gamma rays, I feel like if you make me too angry I may turn pink and start rippin’ s*** up!!!!
Anywho! So I have finally made a decision of what path my treatment will take from this point. After long deliberation with my medical team I have decided to start with chemotherapy first.
I don’t know when I will begin chemo, I meet with my oncologist on Wednesday. I will then have a port catheter placed under my collar bone on Thursday so they won’t have to continue to stick me for everything!!! The port should be somewhat undetectable but it will be there. I will have chemo every three weeks for about six months. However, my surgeon says that if the tumor is not responding enough in two months, he will do surgery then. My surgeon agrees that this is a good way to do treatment, so I feel confident that this was the right decision. The reason for starting chemo first is to shrink the tumor, not like it’s HUGE, like I stated before, but the smaller the tumor the less invasive the surgery. So it’s all good!
Okay that’s all for now but I’m sure there is more to come soon!
Love ya!
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Since Monday!!
Well let's see. On Monday morning I met with the Genetic Counselor and Doctor. They explained what they were looking for and got information from Mom and I about family history. The results of this testing will be back in 2-3 weeks. I have an appointment on the 19th for the results.
Monday afternoon, I got a call from my surgeon's office to give me good results of the biopsy done on Wednesday. The "areas of concern" found on the MRI were all fibrous anomolies (not cancerous). That was really good news because that means the cancer is contained in only the area that was found.
I spoke to my oncologist Tuesday and they are waiting for me to make a desicion. I will be meeting with my surgeon tomorrow so I will make my decision then.
PLEASE EXCUSE ANY GRAMMATICAL ERRORS OR MISSPELLINGS!!!! I AM TIRED AND IT IS LATE!
Keeping you all informed!
Me
Monday afternoon, I got a call from my surgeon's office to give me good results of the biopsy done on Wednesday. The "areas of concern" found on the MRI were all fibrous anomolies (not cancerous). That was really good news because that means the cancer is contained in only the area that was found.
I spoke to my oncologist Tuesday and they are waiting for me to make a desicion. I will be meeting with my surgeon tomorrow so I will make my decision then.
PLEASE EXCUSE ANY GRAMMATICAL ERRORS OR MISSPELLINGS!!!! I AM TIRED AND IT IS LATE!
Keeping you all informed!
Me
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Hey Guys!!!
For those of you who are visiting the site because of my last email, I forgot to say:
Keep me in your prayers and I love each of you!!!!
Nina
Keep me in your prayers and I love each of you!!!!
Nina
Latest Email
Hello Family and Friends!
Greetings from Sunny California! Again, I want to preface my update with appreciation and gratitude for all the prayers, cards, calls, texts, and emails! I really appreciate this more than any of you will ever know.
Well let's see where did we leave off! OK...this is gonna be a long one!!!!
So Monday I had an appointment with who I thought was the Genetic Counselor but turned out to be the Oncologist (a doctor who uses chemotherapy or homone therapy to treat cancer). So the nurse practictioner came in and did a short exam and started talking to me about information from the previous tests and recent MRI. Then the doctor came in and explained what chemo was and what radiation was and all about hormone therapy. He told me all the scary facts about the side effects but reassured me that they monitor these things very closely and give meds to counteract or offset the side effects and also boosts I will recieve for my white blood cells. Then he scared the piss outta me!!!!
He said he wanted me to do chemo 1st!!!!!! I was like wait, WHAT?!?!? WHY?!?!?!
He said to shrink the tumor and make the surgery easier, etc. But I'm like okay but the tumor is like 2.5 3.0 cm.....not the size of a softball!!! WTF ??
He also wanted to see if I was interested in taking part in this study he was doing since I would start chemo in like 2 weeks.
So then I talked to the RN who was with the study and she explained that I would have to have a battery of test, more biopsies, and more tests! This would last like 6 months!
Of course I was shook!!!! I had wrapped my mind around the fact that I have cancer, understood that I would have to have surgery, radiation and chemo........BUT IN THAT ORDER!!!!!!! Not chemo 1st.
So the next day I got on the phone. I called the nurse to ask her a few questions about this study and all these tests. I never said yes to the study but I agreed to the tests so I didn't have to keep going back for tests. Then I called my surgeon's Physician's Asst. The nurse answered several questions but I was still a little upset about this. I was having a lot of trouble getting my mind around this.
I played phone tag with my PA but early Wed. morning she called me to answer the questions about my biopsy that I had. She explained what the biopsy was for and I asked her about the additional biopsies for the study and asked her why I would have to do chemo 1st and if that was best. She was a little baffled it seemed. She was like that's not what Dr. Paz (my surgeon) was looking at. So she said to wait and see what the results of the biopsy showed and then we would make an informed decision on Thursday (May 8th). That made me feel sooooo much better!!!!
Mama came into town on Tuesday!!!!
So I had a second-look ultrasound and biopsy on Wed. and aside from a little soreness, I am fine! I will get the results probably on Monday but only the pathology reports from biopsies from additional lesions that were seen on the MRI. One lesion was in the left breast the other two on the right. The radiologist said that after the ultrasound that she was 98% sure that this was just fiborous anomolies (not cancer!!!!) but the biopsies were taken and I will get the results this week and then when I meet with Dr. Paz(surgeon) we will discuss all results and options of what is going on.
So next week is filled with several appts. :
(5/5) Monday - Dept. of Clinical Cancer Genetics (certain this time!!!!)
(5/6) Tuesday - MUGA Scan
(5/7) Thursday - CT Scan, Dr. Paz (surgeon), Bone Scan
The next week on the schedule so far is only on Wednesday.....Blood work & another meeting with the oncologist (Dr. Somlo)
I know that was a lot of info!!! But that's it for now. I will keep you all informed and if you missed any of the initial emails I have posted them on my new blog:
bellasamazingroadtrip.blogspot.com
Greetings from Sunny California! Again, I want to preface my update with appreciation and gratitude for all the prayers, cards, calls, texts, and emails! I really appreciate this more than any of you will ever know.
Well let's see where did we leave off! OK...this is gonna be a long one!!!!
So Monday I had an appointment with who I thought was the Genetic Counselor but turned out to be the Oncologist (a doctor who uses chemotherapy or homone therapy to treat cancer). So the nurse practictioner came in and did a short exam and started talking to me about information from the previous tests and recent MRI. Then the doctor came in and explained what chemo was and what radiation was and all about hormone therapy. He told me all the scary facts about the side effects but reassured me that they monitor these things very closely and give meds to counteract or offset the side effects and also boosts I will recieve for my white blood cells. Then he scared the piss outta me!!!!
He said he wanted me to do chemo 1st!!!!!! I was like wait, WHAT?!?!? WHY?!?!?!
He said to shrink the tumor and make the surgery easier, etc. But I'm like okay but the tumor is like 2.5 3.0 cm.....not the size of a softball!!! WTF ??
He also wanted to see if I was interested in taking part in this study he was doing since I would start chemo in like 2 weeks.
So then I talked to the RN who was with the study and she explained that I would have to have a battery of test, more biopsies, and more tests! This would last like 6 months!
Of course I was shook!!!! I had wrapped my mind around the fact that I have cancer, understood that I would have to have surgery, radiation and chemo........BUT IN THAT ORDER!!!!!!! Not chemo 1st.
So the next day I got on the phone. I called the nurse to ask her a few questions about this study and all these tests. I never said yes to the study but I agreed to the tests so I didn't have to keep going back for tests. Then I called my surgeon's Physician's Asst. The nurse answered several questions but I was still a little upset about this. I was having a lot of trouble getting my mind around this.
I played phone tag with my PA but early Wed. morning she called me to answer the questions about my biopsy that I had. She explained what the biopsy was for and I asked her about the additional biopsies for the study and asked her why I would have to do chemo 1st and if that was best. She was a little baffled it seemed. She was like that's not what Dr. Paz (my surgeon) was looking at. So she said to wait and see what the results of the biopsy showed and then we would make an informed decision on Thursday (May 8th). That made me feel sooooo much better!!!!
Mama came into town on Tuesday!!!!
So I had a second-look ultrasound and biopsy on Wed. and aside from a little soreness, I am fine! I will get the results probably on Monday but only the pathology reports from biopsies from additional lesions that were seen on the MRI. One lesion was in the left breast the other two on the right. The radiologist said that after the ultrasound that she was 98% sure that this was just fiborous anomolies (not cancer!!!!) but the biopsies were taken and I will get the results this week and then when I meet with Dr. Paz(surgeon) we will discuss all results and options of what is going on.
So next week is filled with several appts. :
(5/5) Monday - Dept. of Clinical Cancer Genetics (certain this time!!!!)
(5/6) Tuesday - MUGA Scan
(5/7) Thursday - CT Scan, Dr. Paz (surgeon), Bone Scan
The next week on the schedule so far is only on Wednesday.....Blood work & another meeting with the oncologist (Dr. Somlo)
I know that was a lot of info!!! But that's it for now. I will keep you all informed and if you missed any of the initial emails I have posted them on my new blog:
bellasamazingroadtrip.blogspot.com
4th Email
4/25/08
Hello Family & Friends,
First and foremost thank you all for your thoughts, prayers, cards, phone calls, emails and texts. I appreciate them all and hope that they continue through this little speed bump I'm going through.
Now to catch you all up on things. I will go back and give you all the details!!!
Last week, after much thought and prayer I decided to get a second opinion solely for treatment options and such. I decided to go to City of Hope National Medical Center. This place comes highly recommended and is one of the leading Cancer Research and Treatment facilities in the nation. So I did the preliminary stuff and they were to call me on Monday to schedule my actual appointment.
I had my MRI on Thursday and with the help of some great drugs, it went smoothly!!!!
I felt very comfortable with this facility and the surgeon that I was seeing so I just thought this second opinion would be another option to what I already had, but God always has plans for us that we are not aware of.
Monday morning, I opened a couple of letters from my insurance company, that had come in the mail on Saturday (I was busy and didn't open the mail....my bad!!!). The letters stated that I was approved for services to be rendered on providers that were OUT OF NETWORK !!!
CRAP!!!! Ok, not to worry, I will call my insurance company to verify what all this will mean money wise when I get to work. Before this could happen, a rep from City of Hope called and set up an appt. for Friday 8am (today). Cool. I call the insurance company and they explain that in & out of network thing AGAIN but they also confirm that City of Hope is IN NETWORK !!! Very Cool!
Monday afternoon I get a call from the radiology clinic where I had the MRI done and they said that the dr. wanted me to have a secondary look ultrasound and biopsy and wanted to schedule it for this week or early next week. I explained that I just found out they were not in my network and I had already set up and appt. at City of Hope. They were all very understanding and said the last thing I needed was to worry about money and started working to make sure I had all my reports, films and slides to be picked up to take to my appt. today. I asked what was on the MRI and of course the nurse said a dr. would have to tell me that.......so I had to wait until today!
I met Dr. Paz this morning and had an initial exam and he reviewed all my films and MRI. He came back in the room and did the most amazing description I could have ever asked for!!! He drew diagrams, flowcharts, bar graphs and a few portraits too (ok, just kidding) but really he drew diagrams, and gave me figures, all my options that were available at this point and what was coming next.
He explained that the were very curious about my genetic predisposition, especially because of my age, so they set up an appt. with an genetic counselor (Monday 2:00). Then he explained there were some other areas on the MRI they wanted to look at and scheduled another ultrasound and biopsy for Wednesday (2:15). Yes, Mama will be here Tuesday. I have a follow-up appt. on Thurs. May 8th to discuss those findings and the next steps. They are also in the process of making an appt. with the oncologist as soon as possible ( they want me to see them before I go for my follow-up w/ Dr. Paz).
All other information is the same as before (size, location, etc) oh except it is NOT contained only in the duct, it is invasive so that means it started in the duct but in also in an area outside the duct. And during the biopsy they are going to look at the lymph nodes as well.
I hope that I have given you enough info to feel informed and in the know. If not too bad cause this is all that I know!!!!
Okay, thanks again for all your support KEEP IT COMING!!!! Please know that it is much appreciated. As for my attitude and feelings. Well, to be honest......I'M FINE!!!! I know you may think I'm putting on a brave front but I'm not. I have occasional thoughts of what comes next but I just pray about it and keep kickin!!! The doctor said that "THIS IS CURABLE!" with more confidence than Kobe about his skills.....so I'm good. I will update you at least once a week from now on I promise. I will be setting up a blog soon so you can just go there to see what's going on as well. I will update you on the progress of that as it materializes.
Love you all and take care of yourselves,
Nina
Hello Family & Friends,
First and foremost thank you all for your thoughts, prayers, cards, phone calls, emails and texts. I appreciate them all and hope that they continue through this little speed bump I'm going through.
Now to catch you all up on things. I will go back and give you all the details!!!
Last week, after much thought and prayer I decided to get a second opinion solely for treatment options and such. I decided to go to City of Hope National Medical Center. This place comes highly recommended and is one of the leading Cancer Research and Treatment facilities in the nation. So I did the preliminary stuff and they were to call me on Monday to schedule my actual appointment.
I had my MRI on Thursday and with the help of some great drugs, it went smoothly!!!!
I felt very comfortable with this facility and the surgeon that I was seeing so I just thought this second opinion would be another option to what I already had, but God always has plans for us that we are not aware of.
Monday morning, I opened a couple of letters from my insurance company, that had come in the mail on Saturday (I was busy and didn't open the mail....my bad!!!). The letters stated that I was approved for services to be rendered on providers that were OUT OF NETWORK !!!
CRAP!!!! Ok, not to worry, I will call my insurance company to verify what all this will mean money wise when I get to work. Before this could happen, a rep from City of Hope called and set up an appt. for Friday 8am (today). Cool. I call the insurance company and they explain that in & out of network thing AGAIN but they also confirm that City of Hope is IN NETWORK !!! Very Cool!
Monday afternoon I get a call from the radiology clinic where I had the MRI done and they said that the dr. wanted me to have a secondary look ultrasound and biopsy and wanted to schedule it for this week or early next week. I explained that I just found out they were not in my network and I had already set up and appt. at City of Hope. They were all very understanding and said the last thing I needed was to worry about money and started working to make sure I had all my reports, films and slides to be picked up to take to my appt. today. I asked what was on the MRI and of course the nurse said a dr. would have to tell me that.......so I had to wait until today!
I met Dr. Paz this morning and had an initial exam and he reviewed all my films and MRI. He came back in the room and did the most amazing description I could have ever asked for!!! He drew diagrams, flowcharts, bar graphs and a few portraits too (ok, just kidding) but really he drew diagrams, and gave me figures, all my options that were available at this point and what was coming next.
He explained that the were very curious about my genetic predisposition, especially because of my age, so they set up an appt. with an genetic counselor (Monday 2:00). Then he explained there were some other areas on the MRI they wanted to look at and scheduled another ultrasound and biopsy for Wednesday (2:15). Yes, Mama will be here Tuesday. I have a follow-up appt. on Thurs. May 8th to discuss those findings and the next steps. They are also in the process of making an appt. with the oncologist as soon as possible ( they want me to see them before I go for my follow-up w/ Dr. Paz).
All other information is the same as before (size, location, etc) oh except it is NOT contained only in the duct, it is invasive so that means it started in the duct but in also in an area outside the duct. And during the biopsy they are going to look at the lymph nodes as well.
I hope that I have given you enough info to feel informed and in the know. If not too bad cause this is all that I know!!!!
Okay, thanks again for all your support KEEP IT COMING!!!! Please know that it is much appreciated. As for my attitude and feelings. Well, to be honest......I'M FINE!!!! I know you may think I'm putting on a brave front but I'm not. I have occasional thoughts of what comes next but I just pray about it and keep kickin!!! The doctor said that "THIS IS CURABLE!" with more confidence than Kobe about his skills.....so I'm good. I will update you at least once a week from now on I promise. I will be setting up a blog soon so you can just go there to see what's going on as well. I will update you on the progress of that as it materializes.
Love you all and take care of yourselves,
Nina
3rd Email
4/15/08
Hello my people!
First, I just wanted you all to know how much I truly appreciate all the prayers and support that you have all showered over me. You will never know how much I appreciate it.
Well, the MRI has been scheduled for Thursday, April 17th, at 5pm. It will take about a week to receive the results and after that my surgeon would like to schedule the lumpectomy. I think they will have the results before then but they like to give you a long enough time just in case. Plus we gotta give my mom time to get back out here!!! But I'm looking at the end of the month or beginning of May for the surgery.
Again, keep me in your thoughts and prayers!
Love you lots,
Nina
Hello my people!
First, I just wanted you all to know how much I truly appreciate all the prayers and support that you have all showered over me. You will never know how much I appreciate it.
Well, the MRI has been scheduled for Thursday, April 17th, at 5pm. It will take about a week to receive the results and after that my surgeon would like to schedule the lumpectomy. I think they will have the results before then but they like to give you a long enough time just in case. Plus we gotta give my mom time to get back out here!!! But I'm looking at the end of the month or beginning of May for the surgery.
Again, keep me in your thoughts and prayers!
Love you lots,
Nina
2nd Email
4/9/08
Hello All!
Well, I meet with my surgeon today. He told me that as far as they know I am in Stage II. There is a tumor, about 2cm, and because of the size that is why they think it is Stage II. I will have a lumpectomy to remove the tumor and then chemotherapy after that. I will first have to have an MRI done to make sure there are no other areas of concern that need to be addressed before I have surgery. The MRI will occur within the next week or so, the nurse will call me with an appointment date tomorrow. After the results of the MRI surgery will be like 2-3 weeks later. I will have to wait around 6 weeks or so before I start chemo. I don't know how much chemo I will need until after the surgery and they extract a lymph node to test. If there is anything in the lymph node they will have to remove all the lymph nodes on the right. From there, the oncologist will determine how much chemo and if there is a need for radiation. So I hope I did a good job explaining this. Any questions you have just, OH HELL, Google it and tell me!!!!!! Ok, really, just ask and then I will tell you to Google it and then call me back and explain it to me!!!
Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers, I really appreciate you all. And keep them coming!
Nina
Hello All!
Well, I meet with my surgeon today. He told me that as far as they know I am in Stage II. There is a tumor, about 2cm, and because of the size that is why they think it is Stage II. I will have a lumpectomy to remove the tumor and then chemotherapy after that. I will first have to have an MRI done to make sure there are no other areas of concern that need to be addressed before I have surgery. The MRI will occur within the next week or so, the nurse will call me with an appointment date tomorrow. After the results of the MRI surgery will be like 2-3 weeks later. I will have to wait around 6 weeks or so before I start chemo. I don't know how much chemo I will need until after the surgery and they extract a lymph node to test. If there is anything in the lymph node they will have to remove all the lymph nodes on the right. From there, the oncologist will determine how much chemo and if there is a need for radiation. So I hope I did a good job explaining this. Any questions you have just, OH HELL, Google it and tell me!!!!!! Ok, really, just ask and then I will tell you to Google it and then call me back and explain it to me!!!
Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers, I really appreciate you all. And keep them coming!
Nina
1st Email
4/8/08
Hello All!
Well, I had an initial appointment with my gynocologist and he officially gave me the results of my biopsy. The doctor told me that I had a "Ductal carcinoma"which according to some of my reading is a good thing. That means that it is contained in a milk duct. Now that's really all I know! This is the same type that my mom and grandma had so that is very encouraging since neither of them had to have further treatment after there surgeries. Okay that's it for now. Oh, my doctor also gave me a referral for a surgeon. I go to see him on Wednesday so look for a new update on Wednesday.
Keep me in your prayers!
Nina
Hello All!
Well, I had an initial appointment with my gynocologist and he officially gave me the results of my biopsy. The doctor told me that I had a "Ductal carcinoma"which according to some of my reading is a good thing. That means that it is contained in a milk duct. Now that's really all I know! This is the same type that my mom and grandma had so that is very encouraging since neither of them had to have further treatment after there surgeries. Okay that's it for now. Oh, my doctor also gave me a referral for a surgeon. I go to see him on Wednesday so look for a new update on Wednesday.
Keep me in your prayers!
Nina
Initial Thoughts
WTF!!!
Is that what I think it is?
Ok, it’s just a lump, nothing major.
Okay if that’s really true why is my heart pounding out of my chest. It’s okay, I have a doctor’s appt. in a couple weeks, I’ll just make sure we talk about it!
Okay so he thinks it’s a cyst, but why do I not feel that way. Why do I have a feeling this ain’t that simple.
Mammogram! Cool, ultrasound? Okay! Why is the tech so quiet? Why does she have to get the doctor?
What is it? Not a cyst huh? Okay, so what now? Biopsy? Okay, but right now I’ve gotta go, my flight leaves in a few hrs and I gotta go put my game face on!
Okay, this is uncomfortable! But the waiting is worse than the pain!!!!
Okay God, here’s the thing, I know you don’t put more on us than we can handle. So can I just tell you, I don’t think I can handle this one. No, for real, I’m not too sure about this one. Can we just call this a REALLY BIG SCARE? I’m just sayin’ !!!!
CANCER!!!!! CANCER!!!!!! I’m 35 freaking yrs. old!!!!!! What is this, my life has finally started to make sense. I am finally making things happen in my life. Me for a change. I am getting things done for me!
Why????? What do I do now?
These are the thoughts I was having up until April 4th 2008!
Is that what I think it is?
Ok, it’s just a lump, nothing major.
Okay if that’s really true why is my heart pounding out of my chest. It’s okay, I have a doctor’s appt. in a couple weeks, I’ll just make sure we talk about it!
Okay so he thinks it’s a cyst, but why do I not feel that way. Why do I have a feeling this ain’t that simple.
Mammogram! Cool, ultrasound? Okay! Why is the tech so quiet? Why does she have to get the doctor?
What is it? Not a cyst huh? Okay, so what now? Biopsy? Okay, but right now I’ve gotta go, my flight leaves in a few hrs and I gotta go put my game face on!
Okay, this is uncomfortable! But the waiting is worse than the pain!!!!
Okay God, here’s the thing, I know you don’t put more on us than we can handle. So can I just tell you, I don’t think I can handle this one. No, for real, I’m not too sure about this one. Can we just call this a REALLY BIG SCARE? I’m just sayin’ !!!!
CANCER!!!!! CANCER!!!!!! I’m 35 freaking yrs. old!!!!!! What is this, my life has finally started to make sense. I am finally making things happen in my life. Me for a change. I am getting things done for me!
Why????? What do I do now?
These are the thoughts I was having up until April 4th 2008!
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