November came in full force. It's amazing to see the response to the Scentsy products. Everyone I talked to, regarding Scentsy and the safety features, are very receptive to the product. I'm finding that the demographics of Scentsy run from children to senior citizens. Young mother's love Scentsy because they know Scentsy will not burn their child if the child accidentally spill the wax on them because it gets barely above body temperature. Both young mother's and senior citizens love it because they can leave without worrying about a house fire if they forget to turn it off (unlike a traditional candle).
This is an exciting time and I cannot wait to see what November and December will bring!
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
Cancer Check Up
Time for my 6 month check up visit with Dr Bachrach. My numbers are good and there are no signs of cancer. Each month that passes is one month close to my five year mark. I have 2 1/2 years to go.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Saturday, November 1, 2008
My Team Is Growing
October 30 and 31, 2008 ~ My Two First Recruits
Sarah Atkinson
Erica Powers
Sarah Atkinson
Erica Powers
This is so exciting! I have my two first recruits. They are so excited and ready so share Scentsy with their family and friends. I know they will be AWESOME and will go far in the Scentsy family.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
My First Scentsy Convention
July 2008
Amy Yates (My Sponsor) and I traveled to Boise, Idaho to the Annual Scentsy Convention. I was like a little school girl going on her first field trip ~ I could hardly contain myself.
There were over 1000 Consultants from all over the U.S., Puerto Rico and Guam. The camaraderie was amazing and overwhelming at the same time. The training sessions were dynamic and informational. The highlight of the trip was going to the Office and Warehouse in Meridian, Idaho. We were given a tour of the facilities and saw how our orders were processed. It was quite an amazing site. We were also told the story of Fred and Alice (Heidi Thompson's Mother and Step Father) and how they poured the bars of wax by hand. Then to be shown the new automated system doing the work that Fred and Alice did...and the two machines are now affectionately called "Fred and Alice".
Amy Yates (My Sponsor) and I traveled to Boise, Idaho to the Annual Scentsy Convention. I was like a little school girl going on her first field trip ~ I could hardly contain myself.
There were over 1000 Consultants from all over the U.S., Puerto Rico and Guam. The camaraderie was amazing and overwhelming at the same time. The training sessions were dynamic and informational. The highlight of the trip was going to the Office and Warehouse in Meridian, Idaho. We were given a tour of the facilities and saw how our orders were processed. It was quite an amazing site. We were also told the story of Fred and Alice (Heidi Thompson's Mother and Step Father) and how they poured the bars of wax by hand. Then to be shown the new automated system doing the work that Fred and Alice did...and the two machines are now affectionately called "Fred and Alice".
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Final Procedure
March 2008
My final reconstructive procedure, nipple reconstruction. I arrived at Banner Baywood (my home away from home). This procedure, just like the others, is out patient. Dr Paul Rhee is my plastic surgeon that went every step of the way in creating new breasts for me. What I found interesting about his procedure was that there was absolutely no discomfort or pain. I think it's due to all of the other procedures resulting in some nerve damage. Over these past two years I've had more feeling returning, but it's not the same as pre-cancer. After this procedure was completed was the last step in nipple reconstruction. I get tats! Yes, tattoo's! Never in my life would I think I'd have tattoo's...but this is a standard part of finishing up all that I'd gone through.
My final reconstructive procedure, nipple reconstruction. I arrived at Banner Baywood (my home away from home). This procedure, just like the others, is out patient. Dr Paul Rhee is my plastic surgeon that went every step of the way in creating new breasts for me. What I found interesting about his procedure was that there was absolutely no discomfort or pain. I think it's due to all of the other procedures resulting in some nerve damage. Over these past two years I've had more feeling returning, but it's not the same as pre-cancer. After this procedure was completed was the last step in nipple reconstruction. I get tats! Yes, tattoo's! Never in my life would I think I'd have tattoo's...but this is a standard part of finishing up all that I'd gone through.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Two Sisters ~ Breast Friends
Today, September 5, 2007 my sister, LaDonna, and I are having surgery. My sister is at Chandler Regional Hospital having the breast expanders implanted and I'm having my breast implants implanted at Banner Baywood.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
BRCA1 and BRCA2
Earlier I mentioned my cancer is genetic. I'm positive for BRCA1 and BRCA2 was shown to have "Uncertain Significance". As a result of my cancer being genetic, my sister was given the opportunity to be tested for BRCA1. She had the test and is also positive for the gene. Since LaDonna tested positive for the gene, she was able to do prophylactic bilateral mastectomies and reconstruction minus the chemotherapy.
In a way, cancer has been a blessing. Calling cancer a blessing is an odd way of putting it, but it was a blessing. Breast cancer has affected many lives in my family and later in my blog I'll share my family history. But back to cancer being a blessing. When you have a family history of breast cancer, there is a high probability that it may be genetic, however this is not true in all cases. When a family that is high risk, generally the one diagnosed with cancer is tested for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene. There are some instances when the test is given if there is no living family member that was diagnosed with breast cancer. In my instance, I was diagnosed at a fairly early stage, Stage 2A, and because I had tested positive for the gene, my sister was able to be tested and given the opportunity to be proactive in her own life.
Although my sister was never at any of my procedures, I felt that I should support her. I did not tell her that I was going to be at the hospital while she had her mastectomies, because I didn't want to make a big deal of it. On July 5, 2007 my sister was scheduled to be at Desert Samaritan Hospital at 9:00 am and the surgery was at 11:00 am. I arrived a little after 9:00 am and my sister wasn't there. For a minute I thought maybe, I was late, had the wrong date or wrong time. But I sat there waiting patiently. About 10 minutes later, LaDonna and her husband, Keith, walk in. My sister begins to cry when she sees me, and we embrace. I know this is a hard time for her and that was the reason I came. We visited for a while until the nurse came to get her. The nurse invited me to go back into Pre-Op, but I said, "They need to be alone, I'll stay here". I waited for Keith to come out so I could keep him company while my sister had her surgery.
About 45 minutes later, Keith comes out of the Pre-Op room and says to me, "LaDonna doesn't want you here!" I was dumbfounded. It was basically a slap in the face and undeserved. I said to him, "I'm staying until I know she's okay and out of surgery, then I'll leave". "I won't see her while she's in the hospital." So, I stayed until the surgery was over. When the doctor came out and reported that my sister was doing good, that's when I left. This kind of behavior proved to me that, "No good deed goes unpunished!"
I came to support LaDonna and Keith. Now keep in mind, my husband needed someone with him when I had my procedures. Robin, Sabrina, or Mary would sit with Doug while I was in the operating room, to help him, because it is scary waiting. LaDonna didn't think Doug needed anyone to be with him. As a matter of fact, we had a conversation regarding Doug needing someone with him. She made snide remarks and made belittling innuendos about him. I can still hear the tone of her voice. It was very hurtful and it confirmed to me that she really doesn't like or care for Doug. To LaDonna it's a sign of weakness or being less of a man to need someone. During our conversation she said, "Keith doesn't need anyone to be with him". This meant that Keith was more of a man because if his wife ever needed surgery, he didn't need anyone to be with him.
I believe that no one can tell someone else how to react, especially when they have a loved one that is going through a life threatening illness. It's insensitive to force your beliefs or feelings on someone else. Not everyone reacts the same. Some need the comfort of family and friends, while others chose to be alone. Both are right, no one is wrong!
In a way, cancer has been a blessing. Calling cancer a blessing is an odd way of putting it, but it was a blessing. Breast cancer has affected many lives in my family and later in my blog I'll share my family history. But back to cancer being a blessing. When you have a family history of breast cancer, there is a high probability that it may be genetic, however this is not true in all cases. When a family that is high risk, generally the one diagnosed with cancer is tested for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene. There are some instances when the test is given if there is no living family member that was diagnosed with breast cancer. In my instance, I was diagnosed at a fairly early stage, Stage 2A, and because I had tested positive for the gene, my sister was able to be tested and given the opportunity to be proactive in her own life.
Although my sister was never at any of my procedures, I felt that I should support her. I did not tell her that I was going to be at the hospital while she had her mastectomies, because I didn't want to make a big deal of it. On July 5, 2007 my sister was scheduled to be at Desert Samaritan Hospital at 9:00 am and the surgery was at 11:00 am. I arrived a little after 9:00 am and my sister wasn't there. For a minute I thought maybe, I was late, had the wrong date or wrong time. But I sat there waiting patiently. About 10 minutes later, LaDonna and her husband, Keith, walk in. My sister begins to cry when she sees me, and we embrace. I know this is a hard time for her and that was the reason I came. We visited for a while until the nurse came to get her. The nurse invited me to go back into Pre-Op, but I said, "They need to be alone, I'll stay here". I waited for Keith to come out so I could keep him company while my sister had her surgery.
About 45 minutes later, Keith comes out of the Pre-Op room and says to me, "LaDonna doesn't want you here!" I was dumbfounded. It was basically a slap in the face and undeserved. I said to him, "I'm staying until I know she's okay and out of surgery, then I'll leave". "I won't see her while she's in the hospital." So, I stayed until the surgery was over. When the doctor came out and reported that my sister was doing good, that's when I left. This kind of behavior proved to me that, "No good deed goes unpunished!"
I came to support LaDonna and Keith. Now keep in mind, my husband needed someone with him when I had my procedures. Robin, Sabrina, or Mary would sit with Doug while I was in the operating room, to help him, because it is scary waiting. LaDonna didn't think Doug needed anyone to be with him. As a matter of fact, we had a conversation regarding Doug needing someone with him. She made snide remarks and made belittling innuendos about him. I can still hear the tone of her voice. It was very hurtful and it confirmed to me that she really doesn't like or care for Doug. To LaDonna it's a sign of weakness or being less of a man to need someone. During our conversation she said, "Keith doesn't need anyone to be with him". This meant that Keith was more of a man because if his wife ever needed surgery, he didn't need anyone to be with him.
I believe that no one can tell someone else how to react, especially when they have a loved one that is going through a life threatening illness. It's insensitive to force your beliefs or feelings on someone else. Not everyone reacts the same. Some need the comfort of family and friends, while others chose to be alone. Both are right, no one is wrong!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Breast Reconstruction Begins
April 3, 2007 at 9:30 am I had my appointment with Dr Rhee Plastic Surgeon to begin the reconstruction process. Today he took measurements to determine what size implants that would look best on my frame. We discussed it and it was determined that I would have a C cup or about 700 cc's. At this appointment it was determined that my incision from my mastectomies were not up to my Dr Rhee's specifications. So, on April18, 2007, I had scar revision surgery at Banner Baywood. It would be several weeks before I had anymore reconstructive surgery, as my Plastic Surgeon wanted these incisions to heal completely before moving forward.
May 30, 2007, I checked into Banner Baywood Hospital at 9:00 am to have the expanders implanted. The surgery was uneventful and I have very little discomfort. I was expecting a lot of pain, but to my surprise I didn't. I had the expanders in for quite some time before the inflating process began.
June 19, 2007, Dr Rhee began the expanding process. This was my first inflation. Each breast received 200 cc's.
June 26, 2007, the second inflation. Each breast received 150 cc's.
July 3, 2007, the third inflation. Each breast received 200 cc's. After this inflation I could feel the tightness in my chest. My inflated breasts were getting harder. I never realized how hard they get. They are like those hard balls that are in the kids bouncy houses. You know what I'm talking about! Your natural breast has some "give" to it, but not these babies! Getting comfortable in bed was another issue. Again, they don't move.
July 17, 2007, my fourth inflation. The left breast received 150 cc's and the right breast received 175 cc's. Immediately after this inflation, Doug and I left for our summer vacation to Utah. I was so glad to get out of town and away from the doctors and I knew my chest needed time to adjust to this last inflation.
August 7, 2007, my last inflation. The left breast received 100 cc's and the right breast 150 cc's The final inflation. My left breast: 800 cc's My right breast: 875 cc's
May 30, 2007, I checked into Banner Baywood Hospital at 9:00 am to have the expanders implanted. The surgery was uneventful and I have very little discomfort. I was expecting a lot of pain, but to my surprise I didn't. I had the expanders in for quite some time before the inflating process began.
June 19, 2007, Dr Rhee began the expanding process. This was my first inflation. Each breast received 200 cc's.
June 26, 2007, the second inflation. Each breast received 150 cc's.
July 3, 2007, the third inflation. Each breast received 200 cc's. After this inflation I could feel the tightness in my chest. My inflated breasts were getting harder. I never realized how hard they get. They are like those hard balls that are in the kids bouncy houses. You know what I'm talking about! Your natural breast has some "give" to it, but not these babies! Getting comfortable in bed was another issue. Again, they don't move.
July 17, 2007, my fourth inflation. The left breast received 150 cc's and the right breast received 175 cc's. Immediately after this inflation, Doug and I left for our summer vacation to Utah. I was so glad to get out of town and away from the doctors and I knew my chest needed time to adjust to this last inflation.
August 7, 2007, my last inflation. The left breast received 100 cc's and the right breast 150 cc's The final inflation. My left breast: 800 cc's My right breast: 875 cc's
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Bilateral Mastectomies
March 1, 2007, 9:15 am appointment with Dr Bachrach. He's pleased that the treatment has been favorable. At this time I need blood work every three months to check my CA125, which has to do with ovarian cancer. You probably are asking yourself, "Why does she need that test when she has no ovaries?" And you know what, that's a good question, because I didn't know the reason either.
Dr Bachrach asked me, "Do you know Glida Radner?" "Yes", I said, "She died of ovarian cancer". "No, she didn't", was his reply. I was stumped as that is what the media announced when she died. Dr Bachrach proceeded to tell me that she died of paratneium (not sure if I spelled it correctly) cancer. This tissue is in the abdomen and is attached to many organs, one of which is the ovaries. So, sometimes when people are diagnosed with ovarian cancer it's actually paratneium cancer instead. The CA125 is the cancer marker for both ovarian and parathneium cancer, thus the reason I have this test every three months.
March 7,2007, today is the day I will have my bilateral mastectomies. I'm at peace with the decision. I have no worries, no concerns. I know it is the right decision and Dr Johnson has always taken the best care of me. I arrive at the hospital at 7:30 am. I check in and wait for the volunteer to call my name to take me to Pre-Op. I believe we only waited about 10 minutes when my name was called along with 2 other patients. I was weighted. They took my temperature and checked my blood sugars. The nurse had a hard time getting my IV, she tried 4 times, then another nurse tried a few more times. After that many tries I was beginning to feel funny and I told them that I was starting to feel light headed. BOOM! Down went the bed. It was that fast, I was flat. Evidently, that was a sign that I was beginning to pass out. After all those sticks trying to get the IV started they finally called another nurse to bring an ultra sound machine to find a vein. This was something totally new to me. One nurse had to locate a vein, then hold the ultra sound device on my arm while another nurse took the needle while watching the monitor to get the IV needle in. The needle was put in the oddest spot, on the backside of my forearm. But it worked! After all that drama with the IV, I decided we needed some laughter, so I asked the nurse to mark my breasts with a Smiley Face for the doctor, gotta have a sense of humor!
The surgery went well, both Doug and, my dearest friend, Robin were there with me. No other family was there to support me, kind of disappointing that I didn't even have my sister there with me. I think people do better when they have their loved ones around them, but I guess she thought differently. She even told me that she didn't understand why Doug needed someone with him while I was in surgery. She even made snide remarks, why I don't know. Maybe she just dislikes Doug so much that she cannot have any compassion for him at all. She gives me the impression that it's a sign of weakness to need support when a loved one in surgery. Where she gets that from, I have no idea.
I remember being in my room, Doug and Robin were watching a video. It was comforting to have them with me. As the evening began to set in, I felt good and decided I wanted to go home. I called the nurse and asked her to contact the doctor to make arrangements for me to go home. I surprised myself, I didn't have to stay in the hospital over night after all.
I came home with two lovely hand grenades, drains to those of you that don't know what I'm talking about, hanging from under where my breasts used to be. These appendages had to be drained and fluid measured several times throughout the day. They were kind of annoying, yet I knew they had a purpose.
I thought the hardest part would be seeing myself in the mirror for the first time with no breasts and totally flat chested. I was actually surprised at how I felt. Of course, I did look physically different, but I was at peace. I was at peace with the decision because I knew it was the right thing to do. The hardest part was that I could not take a shower while I had these drains. For 1 week I had to take bird bathes, sponge bathes to most of you. You know, you do what you have to do. That's all I could do. It was part of the process.
March 14, 2007, Time to take the drains out. Let me tell you, I was a nervous wreck when he was getting ready to remove the drains and I'll tell you why. In 1993, I had gall bladder surgery and I had a drain then too. Well, when the surgeon came in to remove the drain I started to ask him, "Please let me know when you're going to remove...", before I could finish my sentence he pulled the drain from my body. I felt like I had been punched and the wind knocked out of me. All I wanted to ask him was, "Please let me know when you're going to remove the drain, so I can take a deep breath and relax while you do it." He didn't give me the courtesy to finish speaking with him before he so rudely yanked the drain out. So, I took this moment with Dr Johnson and I explained my concerns to him. He was so understanding and removed the drains with care. What a relief to get rid of those things! The following week, March 21,2007 I saw Dr Johnson again. I had some fluid in my chest cavity that needed to be drained. He used a needle to aspirate the fluid from my chest. I was very nervous, to say the least. I don't particularly like needles and to have one going into the chest to remove fluid wasn't my idea of fun. To my amazement it didn't hurt. I had some numbness caused by the incision, which is normal, so the procedure was virtually pain free. I had two more visits to aspirate fluid and April 16, 2007 was my last visit with Dr Johnson.
Dr Bachrach asked me, "Do you know Glida Radner?" "Yes", I said, "She died of ovarian cancer". "No, she didn't", was his reply. I was stumped as that is what the media announced when she died. Dr Bachrach proceeded to tell me that she died of paratneium (not sure if I spelled it correctly) cancer. This tissue is in the abdomen and is attached to many organs, one of which is the ovaries. So, sometimes when people are diagnosed with ovarian cancer it's actually paratneium cancer instead. The CA125 is the cancer marker for both ovarian and parathneium cancer, thus the reason I have this test every three months.
March 7,2007, today is the day I will have my bilateral mastectomies. I'm at peace with the decision. I have no worries, no concerns. I know it is the right decision and Dr Johnson has always taken the best care of me. I arrive at the hospital at 7:30 am. I check in and wait for the volunteer to call my name to take me to Pre-Op. I believe we only waited about 10 minutes when my name was called along with 2 other patients. I was weighted. They took my temperature and checked my blood sugars. The nurse had a hard time getting my IV, she tried 4 times, then another nurse tried a few more times. After that many tries I was beginning to feel funny and I told them that I was starting to feel light headed. BOOM! Down went the bed. It was that fast, I was flat. Evidently, that was a sign that I was beginning to pass out. After all those sticks trying to get the IV started they finally called another nurse to bring an ultra sound machine to find a vein. This was something totally new to me. One nurse had to locate a vein, then hold the ultra sound device on my arm while another nurse took the needle while watching the monitor to get the IV needle in. The needle was put in the oddest spot, on the backside of my forearm. But it worked! After all that drama with the IV, I decided we needed some laughter, so I asked the nurse to mark my breasts with a Smiley Face for the doctor, gotta have a sense of humor!
The surgery went well, both Doug and, my dearest friend, Robin were there with me. No other family was there to support me, kind of disappointing that I didn't even have my sister there with me. I think people do better when they have their loved ones around them, but I guess she thought differently. She even told me that she didn't understand why Doug needed someone with him while I was in surgery. She even made snide remarks, why I don't know. Maybe she just dislikes Doug so much that she cannot have any compassion for him at all. She gives me the impression that it's a sign of weakness to need support when a loved one in surgery. Where she gets that from, I have no idea.
I remember being in my room, Doug and Robin were watching a video. It was comforting to have them with me. As the evening began to set in, I felt good and decided I wanted to go home. I called the nurse and asked her to contact the doctor to make arrangements for me to go home. I surprised myself, I didn't have to stay in the hospital over night after all.
I came home with two lovely hand grenades, drains to those of you that don't know what I'm talking about, hanging from under where my breasts used to be. These appendages had to be drained and fluid measured several times throughout the day. They were kind of annoying, yet I knew they had a purpose.
I thought the hardest part would be seeing myself in the mirror for the first time with no breasts and totally flat chested. I was actually surprised at how I felt. Of course, I did look physically different, but I was at peace. I was at peace with the decision because I knew it was the right thing to do. The hardest part was that I could not take a shower while I had these drains. For 1 week I had to take bird bathes, sponge bathes to most of you. You know, you do what you have to do. That's all I could do. It was part of the process.
March 14, 2007, Time to take the drains out. Let me tell you, I was a nervous wreck when he was getting ready to remove the drains and I'll tell you why. In 1993, I had gall bladder surgery and I had a drain then too. Well, when the surgeon came in to remove the drain I started to ask him, "Please let me know when you're going to remove...", before I could finish my sentence he pulled the drain from my body. I felt like I had been punched and the wind knocked out of me. All I wanted to ask him was, "Please let me know when you're going to remove the drain, so I can take a deep breath and relax while you do it." He didn't give me the courtesy to finish speaking with him before he so rudely yanked the drain out. So, I took this moment with Dr Johnson and I explained my concerns to him. He was so understanding and removed the drains with care. What a relief to get rid of those things! The following week, March 21,2007 I saw Dr Johnson again. I had some fluid in my chest cavity that needed to be drained. He used a needle to aspirate the fluid from my chest. I was very nervous, to say the least. I don't particularly like needles and to have one going into the chest to remove fluid wasn't my idea of fun. To my amazement it didn't hurt. I had some numbness caused by the incision, which is normal, so the procedure was virtually pain free. I had two more visits to aspirate fluid and April 16, 2007 was my last visit with Dr Johnson.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
A New Year ~ 2007
The past 6 months have been a roller coaster ride. Now what can I expect this year? I know there will be more surgeries and, thank heaven no more chemotherapy.
January 4, 2007, 9:30 am appointment with Dr Richmond. Due to me being positive for BRCA1 Dr Bachrach and I agree that I must have bilateral mastectomies. Doug knows it is the right decision and has come to terms with it. The doctor told me since I'm having both breasts removed that I do not need radiation therapy, however, he wants to take my case before a medical board for consensus.
January 16, 2007 I met with Dr Colleen the Gynecological Doctor. After examining me, Dr Colleen referred me to his partner Dr Rowland. Part of my treatment is to remove my ovaries. I had one salpingo oopherectomy in 1993, on the right side. This procedure is for the left. Because I'm genetically positive for BRCA1 and at high risk for Ovarian Cancer, I must have this procedure to reduce the risk. My appointment was to schedule the surgery and Dr Rowland will preforming the procedure. Later in the afternoon, I met with my Dr Rhee my Plastic Surgeon regarding breast re-construction surgery. Now that I do not have to do radiation therapy, I am a prime candidate to go through the expander process. This appointment was to discuss the process and how it works. I'll explain the process later.
January 24, 2007, I had a diagnostic mammogram in preparation for my mastectomies. This is to see that I'm clear of any abnormalities before the procedure. All is good!
February 5, 2007, I had a 9:30 am appointment with Dr Johnson to discuss my bilateral mastectomies. He explained that he would be doing a procedure that was skin sparing, so there would be enough skin tissue for the expansion process. He told me my procedure would be out-patient. "Out patient?", I said, "You have got to be kidding me?". I think he was a little surprised at my reaction, but come on you are taking off my chest and I'm going home right after the surgery. No Way! My face said it all. He could tell by my reaction that I was very uncomfortable with going home, so he told me, "We'll schedule you for a 23 hour stay." Thank heavens, what a relief that was. He said to me, "It is an emotional time isn't it?" All I could do was shake my head. He was totally understanding and knew that this moment was a lot to process.
February 15, 2007, I had outpatient surgery at Banner Baywood Medical Center. The procedure was the salpingo oopherectomy of the right side. Everything went well and no abnormalities.
February 21, 2007, I had a check x-ray needed for my upcoming surgery.
February 23, 2007, Blood draw for surgery.
February 26, 2007 I called my Dr Richmond,the Radiation Oncologist for the results of the medical board regarding me having radiation therapy. It was unanimous that I did not need radiation. I am so glad. This changes everything for me. I know now I can do reconstructive surgery. This is a good day!
All of these tests are making it more and more real. Surgery is emanate and I'm surprisingly calm. I'm ready, it's been a long time coming. I know this is the right decision for me and because of this decision my chances of being cured of breast cancer are greatly increased.
January 4, 2007, 9:30 am appointment with Dr Richmond. Due to me being positive for BRCA1 Dr Bachrach and I agree that I must have bilateral mastectomies. Doug knows it is the right decision and has come to terms with it. The doctor told me since I'm having both breasts removed that I do not need radiation therapy, however, he wants to take my case before a medical board for consensus.
January 16, 2007 I met with Dr Colleen the Gynecological Doctor. After examining me, Dr Colleen referred me to his partner Dr Rowland. Part of my treatment is to remove my ovaries. I had one salpingo oopherectomy in 1993, on the right side. This procedure is for the left. Because I'm genetically positive for BRCA1 and at high risk for Ovarian Cancer, I must have this procedure to reduce the risk. My appointment was to schedule the surgery and Dr Rowland will preforming the procedure. Later in the afternoon, I met with my Dr Rhee my Plastic Surgeon regarding breast re-construction surgery. Now that I do not have to do radiation therapy, I am a prime candidate to go through the expander process. This appointment was to discuss the process and how it works. I'll explain the process later.
January 24, 2007, I had a diagnostic mammogram in preparation for my mastectomies. This is to see that I'm clear of any abnormalities before the procedure. All is good!
February 5, 2007, I had a 9:30 am appointment with Dr Johnson to discuss my bilateral mastectomies. He explained that he would be doing a procedure that was skin sparing, so there would be enough skin tissue for the expansion process. He told me my procedure would be out-patient. "Out patient?", I said, "You have got to be kidding me?". I think he was a little surprised at my reaction, but come on you are taking off my chest and I'm going home right after the surgery. No Way! My face said it all. He could tell by my reaction that I was very uncomfortable with going home, so he told me, "We'll schedule you for a 23 hour stay." Thank heavens, what a relief that was. He said to me, "It is an emotional time isn't it?" All I could do was shake my head. He was totally understanding and knew that this moment was a lot to process.
February 15, 2007, I had outpatient surgery at Banner Baywood Medical Center. The procedure was the salpingo oopherectomy of the right side. Everything went well and no abnormalities.
February 21, 2007, I had a check x-ray needed for my upcoming surgery.
February 23, 2007, Blood draw for surgery.
February 26, 2007 I called my Dr Richmond,the Radiation Oncologist for the results of the medical board regarding me having radiation therapy. It was unanimous that I did not need radiation. I am so glad. This changes everything for me. I know now I can do reconstructive surgery. This is a good day!
All of these tests are making it more and more real. Surgery is emanate and I'm surprisingly calm. I'm ready, it's been a long time coming. I know this is the right decision for me and because of this decision my chances of being cured of breast cancer are greatly increased.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Hernia Surgery
Dr Johnson noticed a lump near my navel. I've had it for years, but never really thought anything of it. He thought it might be a hernia. Since I've had so many procedures this year, it was to my advantage to do this procedure before the end of the year. One thing that always comes to mind, especially when you're a cancer patient is, "Could this be cancer?" It's a normal reaction.
December 27, 2006, I was scheduled for outpatient surgery at Banner Baywood Medical Center. The procedure went well, and it was discovered that it wasn't a hernia at all. It was a abdominal wall lipoma, or in plain English, a "lump of fat".
December 27, 2006, I was scheduled for outpatient surgery at Banner Baywood Medical Center. The procedure went well, and it was discovered that it wasn't a hernia at all. It was a abdominal wall lipoma, or in plain English, a "lump of fat".
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Round 5 and 6
Thursday, November 30, 2006 I arrived at 9:45 am for Round 5 of my treatments. Blood work still looking good and ready for chemo. Thank heavens I have my port again. I love my port! I'm trying my best to keep it as long as I can because I don't like getting stuck all the time. Treatment went well and I'm coping well with the drugs that I'm receiving every three weeks.
December 12, 2006 is my first appointment with Dr Rhee, my plastic surgeon. I really like him but I don't like what he has to say. If I have radiation, I do not qualify to go through the expander process, and because of scar tissue in my abdomen I cannot use that area, and the only option is to take the tissue from my back and move it to the front. YIKES! That's not what I wanted to hear. Honestly, if this is my only option, I would much rather be flat chested than go through that procedure.
Round 6, December 21, 2006, my last chemo treatment. I cannot believe it. Here I finally reached my last one and I did it! My blood work is perfect. So, here I am literally beaming. I'm ready let's get this show on the road. Treatment is uneventful, no problems. Afterwards, the nurses give me a "Certificate of Achievement" and ring a bell! I feel like I've graduated. This is a joyous day!
December 12, 2006 is my first appointment with Dr Rhee, my plastic surgeon. I really like him but I don't like what he has to say. If I have radiation, I do not qualify to go through the expander process, and because of scar tissue in my abdomen I cannot use that area, and the only option is to take the tissue from my back and move it to the front. YIKES! That's not what I wanted to hear. Honestly, if this is my only option, I would much rather be flat chested than go through that procedure.
Round 6, December 21, 2006, my last chemo treatment. I cannot believe it. Here I finally reached my last one and I did it! My blood work is perfect. So, here I am literally beaming. I'm ready let's get this show on the road. Treatment is uneventful, no problems. Afterwards, the nurses give me a "Certificate of Achievement" and ring a bell! I feel like I've graduated. This is a joyous day!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Round 4 & Thanksgiving
Wednesday, November 8, 2006 (Doug's 54th birthday) I go to the Dr Bachrach's office for my routine blood draw before chemotherapy. The nurse calls me back to do the blood draw. First, she gives me a saline solution to flush the port, but it feels funny. I told her, "This doesn't feel right!" She tries it again. I said, "There's something wrong, it doesn't feel right." The nurse goes and gets another nurse. A third time she tries to flush the port. Again I said, "This doesn't feel right!" She looks at my skin and there's a huge lump because the saline solution is going under my skin and not into the port. So, they had to draw out of my arm instead.
After what had happened with the port, the doctors office sent me to the hospital to have a test to see what was wrong with the port. I went to the radiology department. They had to give me an IV and put a dye into my veins. I went into this room where a machine was taking images of the port. After the test I was told that the port was, "broken" and that the "wires are all twisted up" and "do not use it".
Ok, the port is broken, what can I do about it? Absolutely nothing. How the hospital acted gave me the impression that it wasn't important. So, I called Dr Johnson and told his office about the "broken" port. Since I was on chemo, the window of opportunity to remove and implant a new port is very narrow. The procedure to remove the port and implant a new one was scheduled for Wednesday, November 22, 2006, the day before Thanksgiving.
November 9, 2006 I had round 4 of my chemo regime. Unfortunately, I had to use a vein because my chemo port was broken. I didn't like seeing the IV in my hand. This is the reason I wanted a port, I didn't want to have to do it this way. Yet, I had no options. I had to suck it up and just do it. Actually, my chemotherapy hasn't been too bad. I have had very little nausea and no vomiting. That's a good thing. Up to this point I've only had two instances that I did feel nauseous but I meditated my way through it. The first occasion, was when Doug was warming up his dinner. The smell hit me like a brick wall. I ran to the bedroom and shut the door. I laid on the bed and just meditated. The other time I was laying on the couch. I was home alone and all of a sudden I felt "ick". Once again, I laid there and closed my eyes. That's all I had to do. This truly was a blessing, no vomiting! On my way home, from chemo, I usually went to Ned's Crazy Sub for a sub sandwich. Ned's became my sub of choice and helped me to survive through my treatments! Thanks Ned's!
Here it is the day before Thanksgiving. I begin preparation for Thanksgiving dinner. I wash the turkey, salt and pepper it, and place it in a baking bag then put it in the refrigerator. It should be okay, especially since I didn't stuff it. I peeled potatoes and put them in salt water in pan, one less thing to do Thanksgiving morning. When I come home later today, I'll be on schedule in my preparation for Thanksgiving. It will be very intimate, just me, Doug and my Dad for Thanksgiving.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006, Doug and I arrive at the hospital at 1:30 in the afternoon for an outpatient procedure. This is supposed to be a simple procedure, remove the broken port and implant a new one. After the surgery, I see Doug's face, sick with worry, and the Dr Hamberg, the anesthesiologist stroking my arm with just as much of a worried look as Doug. Now, keep in mind, I just came out of surgery. I'm still drugged up, not really absorbing everything. Dr Johnson comes and tells me that during the procedure he cannot locate part of the Bard chemo port and that I need a CT Scan to see where it might be located. I'm telling Doug to calm down, because he's upset with worry, again I don't realize the severity of the situation.
After what had happened with the port, the doctors office sent me to the hospital to have a test to see what was wrong with the port. I went to the radiology department. They had to give me an IV and put a dye into my veins. I went into this room where a machine was taking images of the port. After the test I was told that the port was, "broken" and that the "wires are all twisted up" and "do not use it".
Ok, the port is broken, what can I do about it? Absolutely nothing. How the hospital acted gave me the impression that it wasn't important. So, I called Dr Johnson and told his office about the "broken" port. Since I was on chemo, the window of opportunity to remove and implant a new port is very narrow. The procedure to remove the port and implant a new one was scheduled for Wednesday, November 22, 2006, the day before Thanksgiving.
November 9, 2006 I had round 4 of my chemo regime. Unfortunately, I had to use a vein because my chemo port was broken. I didn't like seeing the IV in my hand. This is the reason I wanted a port, I didn't want to have to do it this way. Yet, I had no options. I had to suck it up and just do it. Actually, my chemotherapy hasn't been too bad. I have had very little nausea and no vomiting. That's a good thing. Up to this point I've only had two instances that I did feel nauseous but I meditated my way through it. The first occasion, was when Doug was warming up his dinner. The smell hit me like a brick wall. I ran to the bedroom and shut the door. I laid on the bed and just meditated. The other time I was laying on the couch. I was home alone and all of a sudden I felt "ick". Once again, I laid there and closed my eyes. That's all I had to do. This truly was a blessing, no vomiting! On my way home, from chemo, I usually went to Ned's Crazy Sub for a sub sandwich. Ned's became my sub of choice and helped me to survive through my treatments! Thanks Ned's!
Here it is the day before Thanksgiving. I begin preparation for Thanksgiving dinner. I wash the turkey, salt and pepper it, and place it in a baking bag then put it in the refrigerator. It should be okay, especially since I didn't stuff it. I peeled potatoes and put them in salt water in pan, one less thing to do Thanksgiving morning. When I come home later today, I'll be on schedule in my preparation for Thanksgiving. It will be very intimate, just me, Doug and my Dad for Thanksgiving.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006, Doug and I arrive at the hospital at 1:30 in the afternoon for an outpatient procedure. This is supposed to be a simple procedure, remove the broken port and implant a new one. After the surgery, I see Doug's face, sick with worry, and the Dr Hamberg, the anesthesiologist stroking my arm with just as much of a worried look as Doug. Now, keep in mind, I just came out of surgery. I'm still drugged up, not really absorbing everything. Dr Johnson comes and tells me that during the procedure he cannot locate part of the Bard chemo port and that I need a CT Scan to see where it might be located. I'm telling Doug to calm down, because he's upset with worry, again I don't realize the severity of the situation.
I'm taken to do the CT Scan. I remember them telling me, "Breathe in, hold your breath, breathe", several times. The results of the test shows that the part is in my heart. This is a rare incident. It has been known to happen but very rarely. Well, I was the lucky one! Typically when the port breaks it goes one of two places; in your lungs or in your heart. The part went into my heart. I'm immediately admitted to the hospital and taken to a room. Still under the effects of anesthesia, I call LaDonna, my sister. Now keep in mind, LaDonna is out of town, in Tucson, for the Thanksgiving holiday. I tell her what's going on, like it's nothing! My advise to anyone, don't make phone calls when you come out of surgery.
Thanksgiving morning I'm in the hospital. I'm served a nice breakfast and told to stay in bed and not move around. I see a commode by the bed and I tell the nurse that I'm not going to use it when the bathroom is literally 10 steps from the commode. The nurse said that was the doctor's orders to use the commode because he didn't want me to exert too much energy or to get stressed due to the wires being in my heart. Don't they realize that using the commode would cause me more stress than using the toilet.
Dr Johnson came in to see me before the retrieval. I could see the concern on his face. He asked me, "When you had the test on your chemo port, didn't they tell you it was in your heart?" "No, they just told me it was broken and not to use it", was my reply. He shook his head and left. I can still see the look on his face! He wasn't very happy.
A young man took me to radiology for the procedure to have the part removed, and I was asked a few questions. One of the questions was, "When was the last time you ate?" Of course, I ate breakfast and evidently that became a problem because I wanted to be sedated. You know, I want to "see nothing", "hear nothing", and "feel nothing". Well, since I ate that wasn't possible so I began to cry and pray. Boy, did I pray!!! Now I'm frustrated. They knew I was having this procedure...why did they bring me breakfast? That's what I want to know! A little time later, they came back and told me they needed a special device to do the procedure and they had to go to another hospital to get it. Thank goodness, my prayers were answered. I was taken back to my room. I kept praying they would take a long time getting what they needed. Several hours later the young man came and took me back to radiology. They asked the doctor if I could have the sedation that I requested earlier and he said, "She can have whatever she wants!" The procedure to retrieve the part was to go through my femoral vein and pluck the wire from my heart and pull it out. All I remember is them showing me some blue wires in my hazy view.
After the procedure I was taken back to my room. The instructions were, that I had to remain still for the next 4 hours. That was a long 4 hours. I remember watching the clock and about 3 hours into my 4 hours of laying there, all I could think was, "I have to pee!" But there was no way I was going to use a bed pan. So, I just laid there and watched the clock. It was one of the longest hours of my life. About 5 minutes before my time was up, I called the nurse because I knew it might take that long for her to come. When she came in I told her, "My time is up and that I have to pee"." I also told her that she had to help me get up, because after laying there as still as can be, I was as stiff as a board and I could hardly move.
I was discharged about 5:00 pm, November 23rd, Thanksgiving Day. Thank heavens for the Washburn Family. Doug and I walked to the Washburn's house and we invited ourselves for dinner. They were so kind and gracious. I appreciate their friendship very much. They made Thanksgiving complete! This is a Thanksgiving I will never forget!
Friday, November 24th I cooked our Thanksgiving dinner.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Round 3
Thursday, October 19, 2006, 9:30 am, Round 3. Blood drawn yesterday and everything is still looking good. We can move on to another round of chemo.
I love my chemo port! It's so much easier than having to use the veins in your arm, especially since my right arm is the only arm they can use. I had my lumpectomy and sentinel lymph nodes taken on my left side. Due to the removal of the lymph nodes, the left side is off limits to IV's, blood draws, and no blood pressure can be taken on that arm. When you have lymph nodes removed you are at high risk for lymphedema swelling of the effected area. In my case, it would be my left arm.
The nurse proceeded to start my chemo IV, everything went well. No problems and it took the usual 3 hours. At the end of my treatment, the nurse gives me heparin in the port to prevent blood clots. When she pushed it into the port I felt this bubbling gurgling sound go up the right side of my neck. I told her about it. She checked me for any leakage and asked me if I felt any of the chemicals on my skin. If the chemicals got on my skin, that would mean I would possibly have to have plastic surgery to repair any damage that the chemo drugs may have caused. However, it was a relief that no problems occurred. She did no further exam and she told me that every thing was alright. I went home, had my lunch and like clock work the Mack truck arrived!
I love my chemo port! It's so much easier than having to use the veins in your arm, especially since my right arm is the only arm they can use. I had my lumpectomy and sentinel lymph nodes taken on my left side. Due to the removal of the lymph nodes, the left side is off limits to IV's, blood draws, and no blood pressure can be taken on that arm. When you have lymph nodes removed you are at high risk for lymphedema swelling of the effected area. In my case, it would be my left arm.
The nurse proceeded to start my chemo IV, everything went well. No problems and it took the usual 3 hours. At the end of my treatment, the nurse gives me heparin in the port to prevent blood clots. When she pushed it into the port I felt this bubbling gurgling sound go up the right side of my neck. I told her about it. She checked me for any leakage and asked me if I felt any of the chemicals on my skin. If the chemicals got on my skin, that would mean I would possibly have to have plastic surgery to repair any damage that the chemo drugs may have caused. However, it was a relief that no problems occurred. She did no further exam and she told me that every thing was alright. I went home, had my lunch and like clock work the Mack truck arrived!
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Round 2
Round 2, 9:30 am, September 28, 2006: I had my blood drawn the day before treatment. The doctor says everything is good and ready for my second round of chemo. This time I was more prepared, I knew what to expect. It wasn't as scary this time, even though I didn't want to do it! It only took 3 hours, that's good, an hour less than last time. I was told it took about 3 hours, this is more like it.
I was hungry after treatment and a sub sandwich sounded good. I stopped by Safeway, why I don't know, I never go to Safeway. I must have gone there because it was on my way home or I just couldn't think where to buy a sub. I got a turkey sub with everything but tomatoes, I don't like tomatoes. I brought it home and for some reason it just did not taste good. I had olives on it, I like olives. But not today. After that sub I could hardly look at another olive, they grossed me out!
After eating, I began to feel that Mack truck feeling again. I was down again for another week and by the third week I was able to clean house and do the grocery shopping I needed to do before I had chemo again.
I was hungry after treatment and a sub sandwich sounded good. I stopped by Safeway, why I don't know, I never go to Safeway. I must have gone there because it was on my way home or I just couldn't think where to buy a sub. I got a turkey sub with everything but tomatoes, I don't like tomatoes. I brought it home and for some reason it just did not taste good. I had olives on it, I like olives. But not today. After that sub I could hardly look at another olive, they grossed me out!
After eating, I began to feel that Mack truck feeling again. I was down again for another week and by the third week I was able to clean house and do the grocery shopping I needed to do before I had chemo again.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Look Good Feel Better
September 25, 2006, my best friend Robin Bissett and I go to Desert Samaritan Hospital to a class given by the American Cancer Society. It was a room filled with women with varying kinds of cancers. All of us bald and there for the same purpose, to "Look Good and Feel Better". It was comfortable being there and everyone "let their hair down" if you know what I mean.
They showed us a video and refreshments were provided. The ladies were wonderful explaining to us what chemotherapy and radiation does to the skin. It was very informative and fun at the same time. They taught us the importance of using mild soaps on our face and body. The importance of moisturizing our skin, especially since chemo dries out the skin. They taught us how to draw on our eyebrows. When you go through chemo you not only lose the hair on your head, but you lose your eyebrows and eyelashes, at least I did. They told us to use eyeliner to help our eyes not look so bland without eyelashes.
They gave us a gift bag with moisturizer, foundation make-up, blush and lipstick. They taught how to put on a scarf and different scarf creations. There were wigs there for us to choose from if we needed a wig.
Robin was in her element, because she's a licensed cosmetologist and she enjoyed helping everyone with their wigs and make-up. She was truly a friend in deed and I love her for helping me. Another thing Robin did for me is, she bought me a wig. We had a great time trying on different wigs. It was a fun day! So, now I have three wigs and I jokingly call them, "Me, Myself, and I".
I highly recommend the "Look Good Feel Better" program to anyone who is going through cancer treatment. As I stated earlier, it is with the American Cancer Society. I know they have classes all over the United States. Be sure to Google it to locate one in or near your area. You will be glad you did. Make sure you bring a friend. You will have fun and it will bring you closer together!
They showed us a video and refreshments were provided. The ladies were wonderful explaining to us what chemotherapy and radiation does to the skin. It was very informative and fun at the same time. They taught us the importance of using mild soaps on our face and body. The importance of moisturizing our skin, especially since chemo dries out the skin. They taught us how to draw on our eyebrows. When you go through chemo you not only lose the hair on your head, but you lose your eyebrows and eyelashes, at least I did. They told us to use eyeliner to help our eyes not look so bland without eyelashes.
They gave us a gift bag with moisturizer, foundation make-up, blush and lipstick. They taught how to put on a scarf and different scarf creations. There were wigs there for us to choose from if we needed a wig.
Robin was in her element, because she's a licensed cosmetologist and she enjoyed helping everyone with their wigs and make-up. She was truly a friend in deed and I love her for helping me. Another thing Robin did for me is, she bought me a wig. We had a great time trying on different wigs. It was a fun day! So, now I have three wigs and I jokingly call them, "Me, Myself, and I".
I highly recommend the "Look Good Feel Better" program to anyone who is going through cancer treatment. As I stated earlier, it is with the American Cancer Society. I know they have classes all over the United States. Be sure to Google it to locate one in or near your area. You will be glad you did. Make sure you bring a friend. You will have fun and it will bring you closer together!
Monday, May 12, 2008
Chemo Begins
September 1, 2006, I met with Dr Bachrach. He went over my MUGA Scan and my blood work. The results of the scan and blood work were normal and this meant the chemotherapy regime would begin.
Round 1: Wednesday, September 5, 2006, I arrive at 1:30 pm. Of course I'm nervous, wouldn't you be? I've only known people that went through cancer treatment, I don't know what it's like personally. Well, today I'm going to find out!
The room is sterile and the nurses are friendly. I'm nervous and my heart is in my throat. I feel like I'm going to be sick and I haven't had any drugs yet! I'm working myself up and I begin to feel it go out of control. The nurse comes over to me with all the chemo bags. She proceeds and the only thing I can think of to do is close my eyes and breathe. I try my best to relax to keep myself calm and it begins to work. Once she begins, I feel calm and peaceful. I feel like everything is going to be okay. The treatment took about 4 hours. When I arrived home, I began to feel tired. Within an hour of getting home I felt like a Mack truck hit me. That was it, I was down. I could barely move. Dr Bachrach was right and then the next week I could do a little more.
After about 10 days, my hair begins to fall out. Not much, but I can tell. I refused to let the loss of my hair get the best of me. So I had a surprise for my Dad. I went to see Dad and we went out to lunch. After lunch, I told Dad that we needed to cut his hair. We took the chair into the carport, he sat down and I proceeded to cut his hair. When I was finished I said, "Okay Dad, it's my turn. You get to cut my hair!" He said, "What? Are you sure?" "Yeah Dad, I'm sure", I said. So we traded places and I was in the barber chair. He proceeded with a reverse Mohawk, and continued until every last strand of hair on my head was gone. I was in control, not cancer or chemotherapy, it was my choice when I lost my hair!
Thursday, September 15, 2006, even though I'm going through the chemo process, I still have to have mammograms. So today at 1:00 pm I had my mammogram, nothing abnormal, everything is good.
Round 1: Wednesday, September 5, 2006, I arrive at 1:30 pm. Of course I'm nervous, wouldn't you be? I've only known people that went through cancer treatment, I don't know what it's like personally. Well, today I'm going to find out!
The room is sterile and the nurses are friendly. I'm nervous and my heart is in my throat. I feel like I'm going to be sick and I haven't had any drugs yet! I'm working myself up and I begin to feel it go out of control. The nurse comes over to me with all the chemo bags. She proceeds and the only thing I can think of to do is close my eyes and breathe. I try my best to relax to keep myself calm and it begins to work. Once she begins, I feel calm and peaceful. I feel like everything is going to be okay. The treatment took about 4 hours. When I arrived home, I began to feel tired. Within an hour of getting home I felt like a Mack truck hit me. That was it, I was down. I could barely move. Dr Bachrach was right and then the next week I could do a little more.
After about 10 days, my hair begins to fall out. Not much, but I can tell. I refused to let the loss of my hair get the best of me. So I had a surprise for my Dad. I went to see Dad and we went out to lunch. After lunch, I told Dad that we needed to cut his hair. We took the chair into the carport, he sat down and I proceeded to cut his hair. When I was finished I said, "Okay Dad, it's my turn. You get to cut my hair!" He said, "What? Are you sure?" "Yeah Dad, I'm sure", I said. So we traded places and I was in the barber chair. He proceeded with a reverse Mohawk, and continued until every last strand of hair on my head was gone. I was in control, not cancer or chemotherapy, it was my choice when I lost my hair!
Thursday, September 15, 2006, even though I'm going through the chemo process, I still have to have mammograms. So today at 1:00 pm I had my mammogram, nothing abnormal, everything is good.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Doctors and Tests
Now comes the time when I'll be seeing doctors that I thought I'd NEVER see. Radiation Oncologist, Medical Oncologist, and Plastic Surgeon. This isn't something that I ever thought I'd be doing in a million years, but I am!
June 29, 2006, is my first appointment with Dr Richmond, Radiation Oncologist. He was very nice and informative. The only thing I didn't like was that if I had radiation, my chances of breast reconstruction were decreased. At that time I was bound and determined not to do radiation, if at all possible.
July 5, 2006 I had a PET Scan. I had no idea what a PET Scan was. I was injected with a glucose dye. After being injected I had to wait about a hour to make sure the dye was throughout my system. It was my turn and I was escorted to a mobile PET Scan trailer at Banner Baywood Medical Center. I was told to remove any clothing that had any metal on it and put on a gown. I enter another part of the trailer and I see this big machine, that is similar to a CT Scan machine and was told to lay down on the table. I had two options, have my arms strapped down by my side or have them above my head. There was no way I was going to be strapped down. I can get claustrophobic and being strapped down would have made me feel more confined than I already was. I closed my eyes throughout the test to keep me calm and from getting that anxious feeling. The test took about 45 minutes to an hour, which is a long time when you don't like confined spaces. The purpose of the test is to show where the cancer is located and if it has metastasized. The results of my PET Scan showed the cancer in only one spot, in my left breast. This is good news!
July 14, 2006 I went to Banner Baywood for Outpatient Pre-Op. Getting ready for my lumpectomy.
I knew that soon after my surgery, chemotherapy would be here and the thought of going bald was on my mind. I know that cancer is a scary thing, I know that for a fact. I've watched how my family has been affected by cancer and now I'm going through it myself. Sometimes it's difficult for some people to talk, let alone look at someone with cancer. They don't know what to say or what to do and it puts up walls between people. Well, I didn't want that to happen to me. I want people to ask how I am, I want them to have "normal" conversations with me. I don't want them shying away from me because I was diagnosed with cancer.
So, on Sunday, July 16, 2006, I decided to do something to involve the Sisters in my Ward in one of my major decisions. I had a survey made with different pictures of wigs for the Sisters in Relief Society to choose for me. Boy, did that break the ice. They loved it, and I loved it too! They became a part of my cancer experience and I love each of them for supporting me.
July 18,2006, my dear friend Nancy Garrett and I had pedicures. She treated me knowing in two days I was having my lumpectomy and beginning my journey through breast cancer. After our pedicures we went to Cracker & Co. for lunch. Little did I know that when I walked into the back of the restaurant that I would see a table of friends with pink balloons. There was Vicki Hunt, Loa Owens, Carla Morris, Vicki Lenkersdorfer, Geni Huston, Kim Berrett and Mandi Wilson. This meant everything in the world to me. To have my friends give me love and support during this time of my life. I love each of them to this very day.
July 20, 2006, Doug and I arrived at Banner Baywood hospital at 6:00 am. I had a lumpectomy and 6 sentinel lymph nodes were extracted and the results were benign. I also had a Bard chemo port implanted on the right upper breast area. This port will help me with my chemotherapy and blood draws. I wanted this because I knew I would get tired of being poked and that chemo also makes it more difficult to find good veins to draw blood or for treatment. The procedure went well and I came home with no problems. I thought, "This is a piece of cake, nothing to it."
On August 1, 2006, I had an appointment with Dr Johnson. He told me that the "margins" were not large enough. The margins were clean but he felt they needed to be larger. A re-excision surgery was scheduled to be in 9 days.
August 4, 2006 was my first visit with Dr Bachrach. I came in with a notebook of questions and taking notes. I already knew, before he told me that I was Stage 2A, I am triple negative, ER/PR negative, and HER2 neu negative. All lymph nodes came back negative. I was told that I would have six rounds of chemotherapy, in the third generation regimen, a round of treatment, for me, was every three weeks. I handed him my notebook and asked him to check off the chemo treatment that he recommended for me and he checked the ones that I marked They are, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, and Taxotere, the "Three bad boys", as the nurse's called them! He explained how the chemo would affect me. He told me that week one, I would not want to do anything, week two - I would be able to do a little bit more and the third week, I'd be feeling a lot better. I asked Dr Bachrach if I could work during my treatment. He asked me what kind of work I did and I told him that I'm a floral designer. All he did was shake his head "no" and that was it. My understanding as to why I could not work was because of the different molds and spores that come in the flowers. Since I would be on chemo and my immune system being weakened by the treatment that I would be more susceptible to getting sick. So no work for me. Dr Bachrach also wanted me to be tested to see if my type of cancer was genetic, I already knew it was positive for the gene, but he needed medical confirmation. I told him the only way I would have the test was if the test was pre-approved by my insurance, because the test is $4000. To my amazement, my insurance company approved the test.
On August 9, 2006 I was back at Banner Baywood for a re-excision to make sure the margins were clean and clear.
The next day, August 10, 2006, I was scheduled for a MUGA Scan. This scan is required prior to receiving certain chemotherapy treatment. Some chemotherapy can damage your heart, so the MUGA Scan is to determine if your heart is strong enough to withstand the treatment. Even if your heart is healthy, the drugs can still cause damage. The scan was simple, nothing to it. The test results were favorable and the chemo treatment suggested for my regimen will go as planned.
August 16, 2006, I had my blood drawn to be tested for BRCA1 and BRCA2. The next day, August 17, 2006, I had a follow up appointment with Dr Bachrach. We went over more information and any other questions that I might have. I had another exam, kinda getting tired of bearing my breasts every time I see a doctor. I'm beginning to undress before they enter the room because I know the first thing they are going to do is examine me again! I feel numb and all modesty goes out the window. It's like, okay here they are again..take a look!
After all this...Doug and I decided to take a 7 day vacation before I began my chemotherapy. Once I begin, we can't go anywhere and I really needed this trip to take my mind off all the treatments and upcoming surgeries. We went to Utah and visited our good friends Dan and Linda Metcalf. It was nice to be on their farm, to enjoy the beautiful Utah weather, and to get away from the Arizona heat. We also took a day to visit with Doug's cousin RoseAnn Nielsen in Ogden, Utah. It was a relaxing trip and it helped me to get ready to face my upcoming challenges.
We came back from our trip and of course, August 31, 2006, the first thing I have to do is see Dr Richmond. At this point in time we still don't know if I need radiation therapy. He told me the results of my genetic testing. And yes, I am positive on BRCA1 and BRCA2 showing positive with "Uncertain Significance". Now, this puts a whole new light on things. At this moment I know, and no doctor has to tell me, that I must have bilateral mastectomies. The decision is made!
However, Doug is still has the view that a lumpectomy is sufficient. I know he's having a difficult time with all of this, what husband wouldn't? I think it's normal for a man to go through all kinds of emotions during this time and if anyone says different, they are lying! Please don't mistake love and concern for weakness. I know there are some that feel that way, I do not. Walk a mile in a husband's shoes then tell me he's weak when he's watching his wife go through this torment of breast cancer.
If you know someone who's going through this experience, do not forget the partner in their life. When someone is diagnosed with cancer, the whole family has cancer. And what I mean by that is, every one is effected. It touches everyone in the family and everyone copes differently. We should not judge a person's reactions because this is a form of grief or a death, if you will. We cannot tell someone how to grieve. How can we tell someone how to react when their loved one has cancer? Be mindful of those around you and love them through this time of their life. Be supportive not condemning.
June 29, 2006, is my first appointment with Dr Richmond, Radiation Oncologist. He was very nice and informative. The only thing I didn't like was that if I had radiation, my chances of breast reconstruction were decreased. At that time I was bound and determined not to do radiation, if at all possible.
July 5, 2006 I had a PET Scan. I had no idea what a PET Scan was. I was injected with a glucose dye. After being injected I had to wait about a hour to make sure the dye was throughout my system. It was my turn and I was escorted to a mobile PET Scan trailer at Banner Baywood Medical Center. I was told to remove any clothing that had any metal on it and put on a gown. I enter another part of the trailer and I see this big machine, that is similar to a CT Scan machine and was told to lay down on the table. I had two options, have my arms strapped down by my side or have them above my head. There was no way I was going to be strapped down. I can get claustrophobic and being strapped down would have made me feel more confined than I already was. I closed my eyes throughout the test to keep me calm and from getting that anxious feeling. The test took about 45 minutes to an hour, which is a long time when you don't like confined spaces. The purpose of the test is to show where the cancer is located and if it has metastasized. The results of my PET Scan showed the cancer in only one spot, in my left breast. This is good news!
July 14, 2006 I went to Banner Baywood for Outpatient Pre-Op. Getting ready for my lumpectomy.
I knew that soon after my surgery, chemotherapy would be here and the thought of going bald was on my mind. I know that cancer is a scary thing, I know that for a fact. I've watched how my family has been affected by cancer and now I'm going through it myself. Sometimes it's difficult for some people to talk, let alone look at someone with cancer. They don't know what to say or what to do and it puts up walls between people. Well, I didn't want that to happen to me. I want people to ask how I am, I want them to have "normal" conversations with me. I don't want them shying away from me because I was diagnosed with cancer.
So, on Sunday, July 16, 2006, I decided to do something to involve the Sisters in my Ward in one of my major decisions. I had a survey made with different pictures of wigs for the Sisters in Relief Society to choose for me. Boy, did that break the ice. They loved it, and I loved it too! They became a part of my cancer experience and I love each of them for supporting me.
July 18,2006, my dear friend Nancy Garrett and I had pedicures. She treated me knowing in two days I was having my lumpectomy and beginning my journey through breast cancer. After our pedicures we went to Cracker & Co. for lunch. Little did I know that when I walked into the back of the restaurant that I would see a table of friends with pink balloons. There was Vicki Hunt, Loa Owens, Carla Morris, Vicki Lenkersdorfer, Geni Huston, Kim Berrett and Mandi Wilson. This meant everything in the world to me. To have my friends give me love and support during this time of my life. I love each of them to this very day.
July 20, 2006, Doug and I arrived at Banner Baywood hospital at 6:00 am. I had a lumpectomy and 6 sentinel lymph nodes were extracted and the results were benign. I also had a Bard chemo port implanted on the right upper breast area. This port will help me with my chemotherapy and blood draws. I wanted this because I knew I would get tired of being poked and that chemo also makes it more difficult to find good veins to draw blood or for treatment. The procedure went well and I came home with no problems. I thought, "This is a piece of cake, nothing to it."
On August 1, 2006, I had an appointment with Dr Johnson. He told me that the "margins" were not large enough. The margins were clean but he felt they needed to be larger. A re-excision surgery was scheduled to be in 9 days.
August 4, 2006 was my first visit with Dr Bachrach. I came in with a notebook of questions and taking notes. I already knew, before he told me that I was Stage 2A, I am triple negative, ER/PR negative, and HER2 neu negative. All lymph nodes came back negative. I was told that I would have six rounds of chemotherapy, in the third generation regimen, a round of treatment, for me, was every three weeks. I handed him my notebook and asked him to check off the chemo treatment that he recommended for me and he checked the ones that I marked They are, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, and Taxotere, the "Three bad boys", as the nurse's called them! He explained how the chemo would affect me. He told me that week one, I would not want to do anything, week two - I would be able to do a little bit more and the third week, I'd be feeling a lot better. I asked Dr Bachrach if I could work during my treatment. He asked me what kind of work I did and I told him that I'm a floral designer. All he did was shake his head "no" and that was it. My understanding as to why I could not work was because of the different molds and spores that come in the flowers. Since I would be on chemo and my immune system being weakened by the treatment that I would be more susceptible to getting sick. So no work for me. Dr Bachrach also wanted me to be tested to see if my type of cancer was genetic, I already knew it was positive for the gene, but he needed medical confirmation. I told him the only way I would have the test was if the test was pre-approved by my insurance, because the test is $4000. To my amazement, my insurance company approved the test.
On August 9, 2006 I was back at Banner Baywood for a re-excision to make sure the margins were clean and clear.
The next day, August 10, 2006, I was scheduled for a MUGA Scan. This scan is required prior to receiving certain chemotherapy treatment. Some chemotherapy can damage your heart, so the MUGA Scan is to determine if your heart is strong enough to withstand the treatment. Even if your heart is healthy, the drugs can still cause damage. The scan was simple, nothing to it. The test results were favorable and the chemo treatment suggested for my regimen will go as planned.
August 16, 2006, I had my blood drawn to be tested for BRCA1 and BRCA2. The next day, August 17, 2006, I had a follow up appointment with Dr Bachrach. We went over more information and any other questions that I might have. I had another exam, kinda getting tired of bearing my breasts every time I see a doctor. I'm beginning to undress before they enter the room because I know the first thing they are going to do is examine me again! I feel numb and all modesty goes out the window. It's like, okay here they are again..take a look!
After all this...Doug and I decided to take a 7 day vacation before I began my chemotherapy. Once I begin, we can't go anywhere and I really needed this trip to take my mind off all the treatments and upcoming surgeries. We went to Utah and visited our good friends Dan and Linda Metcalf. It was nice to be on their farm, to enjoy the beautiful Utah weather, and to get away from the Arizona heat. We also took a day to visit with Doug's cousin RoseAnn Nielsen in Ogden, Utah. It was a relaxing trip and it helped me to get ready to face my upcoming challenges.
We came back from our trip and of course, August 31, 2006, the first thing I have to do is see Dr Richmond. At this point in time we still don't know if I need radiation therapy. He told me the results of my genetic testing. And yes, I am positive on BRCA1 and BRCA2 showing positive with "Uncertain Significance". Now, this puts a whole new light on things. At this moment I know, and no doctor has to tell me, that I must have bilateral mastectomies. The decision is made!
However, Doug is still has the view that a lumpectomy is sufficient. I know he's having a difficult time with all of this, what husband wouldn't? I think it's normal for a man to go through all kinds of emotions during this time and if anyone says different, they are lying! Please don't mistake love and concern for weakness. I know there are some that feel that way, I do not. Walk a mile in a husband's shoes then tell me he's weak when he's watching his wife go through this torment of breast cancer.
If you know someone who's going through this experience, do not forget the partner in their life. When someone is diagnosed with cancer, the whole family has cancer. And what I mean by that is, every one is effected. It touches everyone in the family and everyone copes differently. We should not judge a person's reactions because this is a form of grief or a death, if you will. We cannot tell someone how to grieve. How can we tell someone how to react when their loved one has cancer? Be mindful of those around you and love them through this time of their life. Be supportive not condemning.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Preparing Myself
Now that I've been diagnosed, I have a lot to do. I immediately begin my research and was on the Internet more than I had been in months. I was determined to know as much as I could before I met with the different doctors. I wanted to know about radiation and chemotherapy. I purchased Dr. Susan Love's "Breast Book". That book became my "Breast Bible!" I highly recommend this book to anyone who is diagnosed with breast cancer.
Doug and I had just finished our addition to our home. I needed to clean things up in preparation for my journey through breast cancer. I began by washing walls, cleaning out things that I knew I wouldn't have the strength to do later. I painted rooms that I wanted painted to complete our addition. I donated a lot to Deseret Industries so I didn't have these things cluttering up my life. I felt that my life was spiraling out of control and one way to control it was to do what I could to prepare.
I began purchasing things throughout June, July, and August to stock up on household items and food. By the time I was finished I literally had a six month supply of everything. And I mean everything, from shampoo to toilet paper and paper towels, from canned goods to dry goods, from toothpaste to deodorant, cleaning supplies to laundry detergent . You name it, I had it! I stocked my freezer with frozen meats and TV dinners for Doug. My goal was to have as much as possible in my home that when I had to go to the grocery store, I would be finished in 20 to 30 minutes getting fresh produce, dairy and meat.
This taught me a valuable lesson. We never know when life gives us lemons, and those lemons can be made sweeter into lemonade by preparing. I learned that by preparing for chemotherapy and all that it entails that I could sweetened or lighten my experience by following this gospel principle. Through my faith, I was able to take into action what I had always been taught about preparedness. I was lucky. I had time to prepare. But what about the next lemon that life gives me, will I be prepared?
Another part of preparing myself was to purchase wigs before I had treatment. I went to Sally's Wigs here on Southern and Horne, the same place where my Mom bought her wigs. Ironic, isn't it? Now it's my turn. Another thing that I never thought I would be doing, buying wigs! I bought two wigs.
Doug and I had just finished our addition to our home. I needed to clean things up in preparation for my journey through breast cancer. I began by washing walls, cleaning out things that I knew I wouldn't have the strength to do later. I painted rooms that I wanted painted to complete our addition. I donated a lot to Deseret Industries so I didn't have these things cluttering up my life. I felt that my life was spiraling out of control and one way to control it was to do what I could to prepare.
I began purchasing things throughout June, July, and August to stock up on household items and food. By the time I was finished I literally had a six month supply of everything. And I mean everything, from shampoo to toilet paper and paper towels, from canned goods to dry goods, from toothpaste to deodorant, cleaning supplies to laundry detergent . You name it, I had it! I stocked my freezer with frozen meats and TV dinners for Doug. My goal was to have as much as possible in my home that when I had to go to the grocery store, I would be finished in 20 to 30 minutes getting fresh produce, dairy and meat.
This taught me a valuable lesson. We never know when life gives us lemons, and those lemons can be made sweeter into lemonade by preparing. I learned that by preparing for chemotherapy and all that it entails that I could sweetened or lighten my experience by following this gospel principle. Through my faith, I was able to take into action what I had always been taught about preparedness. I was lucky. I had time to prepare. But what about the next lemon that life gives me, will I be prepared?
Another part of preparing myself was to purchase wigs before I had treatment. I went to Sally's Wigs here on Southern and Horne, the same place where my Mom bought her wigs. Ironic, isn't it? Now it's my turn. Another thing that I never thought I would be doing, buying wigs! I bought two wigs.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
My Diagnosis Story
Everyone has their own diagnosis story. Mine may be the same as yours or maybe slightly different or completely different. Yet, it's my story.
I noticed a lump in my left breast in the Spring of 2003. I was concerned, due to my family history, but I think I was in denial too, you know...it couldn't happen to me. December 15, 2004, I had my yearly mammogram. Nothing unusual happened. Just the routine mammogram visit. Waiting in the lobby for my name to be called. When my name was called I went into the room, removed my top and bra putting on this gown that stays on about 2 minutes until you have the mammogram. Why you have to wear it? I have no idea. It doesn't stay on and it just gets in the way. Of course, the lump was in the back of my mind. As we were going through the questions I pointed to where the lump was located. The technician took extra views to ensure that she got the full picture. After a few minutes the test was over and I was on my way home.
A month later, January 17, 2005, I had an appointment with my Primary Care Physician. I wasn't there for anything breast related, I was having skin problems on my scalp and was trying to get that cleared up. While I was there I asked the doctor about my mammogram. He said it didn't show anything. I asked him about the lump and he said, " it's an inflamed milk duct". I asked him if I should be concerned since I have a strong family history of breast cancer. He didn't seem overly concerned, he told me just to "keep an eye on it". So, not thinking or being my own advocate, I believed what he said. Again, I think I was in denial at the time, it couldn't happen to me.
Thirteen months later, my new Primary Care Physician, Dr Wiens, gave me an order for my routine mammogram. It was scheduled for January 19, 2006, at the same place I've had my mammograms for the past 5 years. However, these results were a little different. Was I concerned? Not really! I've had results before that required me to have additional images. The only thing different this time is that I needed to have an ultra sound. So, I made the appointment and had the ultra sound February 6, 2006. When the results came in, I was told to have another ultra sound in 3 months. This was very unusual, this has never happened to me before! Now the "red flags" come up!
May 30, 2006, I had my second ultra sound. The technician took me back into the room, I had to take my top off and put on this gown. I laid down on the table and she put this gel goop on my breast and proceeded to take images. I could hear the clicking of her fingernails on the keyboard as she took the images. At one point she asked, "Have you noticed any changes in the lump?" "No, not really!", I said. Of course, that was the first time that I was really alarmed. I knew at that moment that I had breast cancer. The technician said nothing, but it's the way she "said nothing".
I was called by my doctor's office and told that I needed a biopsy. Wow, a biopsy! My heart sunk. Of course, now I knew I had breast cancer. I scheduled an appointment to see Dr. Johnson, a general surgeon and I arrived, Monday, June 19, 2006 at 11:00 am. While visiting with Dr Johnson, he was so confident that I did not have breast cancer. He was very kind, he stayed upbeat and positive. He asked me if the lump had changed and I told him no. He was very reassuring and said he thought it was going to be nothing, but deep down I knew it wasn't alright. He asked me when I would like to have the biopsy? I said, "Today!" He said,"Let me check my schedule." After a few minutes, he said, "We can do it right now!" What a relief! I did not have to wait for another appointment. Dr Johnson and his assistant got everything prepared. The doctor sprayed me with a freezing spray then gave me a shot of lidocaine to numb the area. He did a hollow needle biopsy and took eight samples. While taking the samples, the assistant said, "That one's green." I thought to my self, was that good or was that bad? As I lay there, I felt that was another clue that it was cancer. After the biopsy was finished, the doctor told me that the results would be back Friday and he would call me with the results.
Around 11:00 am Tuesday, June 20, 2006, Dr Johnson called with the results, not Friday, but Tuesday the very next day! I could tell he was having a hard time. He said, "Karen, it's positive, you have breast cancer!" I was numb! I thought I was prepared for those words, but I wasn't. I don't think anyone can truly be prepared to hear, 'YOU HAVE BREAST CANCER!"
Now the hard part I had to tell my husband, Doug. How am I going to tell him? What do I say? I had to collect my thoughts, I was literally in shock. Doug noticed on the caller ID that Dr Johnson called, so he came into the family room. I told him, "I have breast cancer." That was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do in my life, tell my husband that I have breast cancer. Of course, we cried and cried! Immediately after telling Doug, I called my dad and sister and we cried together too. This was a very difficult day!
It was not until about a month later that I realized something. The day I had my biopsy, June 19, 2006 was the 10th anniversary of my mother's death and she died of breast cancer!
I noticed a lump in my left breast in the Spring of 2003. I was concerned, due to my family history, but I think I was in denial too, you know...it couldn't happen to me. December 15, 2004, I had my yearly mammogram. Nothing unusual happened. Just the routine mammogram visit. Waiting in the lobby for my name to be called. When my name was called I went into the room, removed my top and bra putting on this gown that stays on about 2 minutes until you have the mammogram. Why you have to wear it? I have no idea. It doesn't stay on and it just gets in the way. Of course, the lump was in the back of my mind. As we were going through the questions I pointed to where the lump was located. The technician took extra views to ensure that she got the full picture. After a few minutes the test was over and I was on my way home.
A month later, January 17, 2005, I had an appointment with my Primary Care Physician. I wasn't there for anything breast related, I was having skin problems on my scalp and was trying to get that cleared up. While I was there I asked the doctor about my mammogram. He said it didn't show anything. I asked him about the lump and he said, " it's an inflamed milk duct". I asked him if I should be concerned since I have a strong family history of breast cancer. He didn't seem overly concerned, he told me just to "keep an eye on it". So, not thinking or being my own advocate, I believed what he said. Again, I think I was in denial at the time, it couldn't happen to me.
Thirteen months later, my new Primary Care Physician, Dr Wiens, gave me an order for my routine mammogram. It was scheduled for January 19, 2006, at the same place I've had my mammograms for the past 5 years. However, these results were a little different. Was I concerned? Not really! I've had results before that required me to have additional images. The only thing different this time is that I needed to have an ultra sound. So, I made the appointment and had the ultra sound February 6, 2006. When the results came in, I was told to have another ultra sound in 3 months. This was very unusual, this has never happened to me before! Now the "red flags" come up!
May 30, 2006, I had my second ultra sound. The technician took me back into the room, I had to take my top off and put on this gown. I laid down on the table and she put this gel goop on my breast and proceeded to take images. I could hear the clicking of her fingernails on the keyboard as she took the images. At one point she asked, "Have you noticed any changes in the lump?" "No, not really!", I said. Of course, that was the first time that I was really alarmed. I knew at that moment that I had breast cancer. The technician said nothing, but it's the way she "said nothing".
I was called by my doctor's office and told that I needed a biopsy. Wow, a biopsy! My heart sunk. Of course, now I knew I had breast cancer. I scheduled an appointment to see Dr. Johnson, a general surgeon and I arrived, Monday, June 19, 2006 at 11:00 am. While visiting with Dr Johnson, he was so confident that I did not have breast cancer. He was very kind, he stayed upbeat and positive. He asked me if the lump had changed and I told him no. He was very reassuring and said he thought it was going to be nothing, but deep down I knew it wasn't alright. He asked me when I would like to have the biopsy? I said, "Today!" He said,"Let me check my schedule." After a few minutes, he said, "We can do it right now!" What a relief! I did not have to wait for another appointment. Dr Johnson and his assistant got everything prepared. The doctor sprayed me with a freezing spray then gave me a shot of lidocaine to numb the area. He did a hollow needle biopsy and took eight samples. While taking the samples, the assistant said, "That one's green." I thought to my self, was that good or was that bad? As I lay there, I felt that was another clue that it was cancer. After the biopsy was finished, the doctor told me that the results would be back Friday and he would call me with the results.
Around 11:00 am Tuesday, June 20, 2006, Dr Johnson called with the results, not Friday, but Tuesday the very next day! I could tell he was having a hard time. He said, "Karen, it's positive, you have breast cancer!" I was numb! I thought I was prepared for those words, but I wasn't. I don't think anyone can truly be prepared to hear, 'YOU HAVE BREAST CANCER!"
Now the hard part I had to tell my husband, Doug. How am I going to tell him? What do I say? I had to collect my thoughts, I was literally in shock. Doug noticed on the caller ID that Dr Johnson called, so he came into the family room. I told him, "I have breast cancer." That was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do in my life, tell my husband that I have breast cancer. Of course, we cried and cried! Immediately after telling Doug, I called my dad and sister and we cried together too. This was a very difficult day!
It was not until about a month later that I realized something. The day I had my biopsy, June 19, 2006 was the 10th anniversary of my mother's death and she died of breast cancer!
Monday, March 31, 2008
A New Venture
March 10, 2008 I joined an amazing company, Scentsy Wickless Candles. It is just what the doctor ordered. For almost 2 years, I had gone through chemo therapy and numerous surgeries and now finally I'm done!
During the past 2 years I only worked short periods of time. I would work at Debbie's flowers shop for each of the holidays, which included Valentine's Day, Easter, Mother's Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. I have always loved being a floral designer. Working with brides, making customers visions become a reality and of course the occasional funeral. It's a fulfilling job, yet I have done it since 1984 and my body was feeling the strains of working long hours, especially my hands...I believe I have carpel tunnel and it's really bad in my right hand.
So, when Scentsy came along I was thrilled. It was something that I LOVED and knew that others would LOVE Scentsy too.
During the past 2 years I only worked short periods of time. I would work at Debbie's flowers shop for each of the holidays, which included Valentine's Day, Easter, Mother's Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. I have always loved being a floral designer. Working with brides, making customers visions become a reality and of course the occasional funeral. It's a fulfilling job, yet I have done it since 1984 and my body was feeling the strains of working long hours, especially my hands...I believe I have carpel tunnel and it's really bad in my right hand.
So, when Scentsy came along I was thrilled. It was something that I LOVED and knew that others would LOVE Scentsy too.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Welcome to my Life After Cancer Blog!
I've been thinking about this over the course of this year and decided it's time to share some of the UPS and DOWNS of my roller coaster ride with cancer. What better forum than MY OWN 
BLOG! I'll share my story with you and some of the feelings that I experienced. If you are a cancer patient or know someone who has or had cancer, this is for you! I had two famous sayings that I said while going through my chemo and surgeries, "When Life Gives You Lemons ~ Make Lemonade!" and "When you laugh, the world laughs with you. When you cry, you cry alone!" I found that a sense of humor was the best cure for me, and I believe that humor and a positive attitude also helped my family and friends share in my experience as well.
My blog will start off with my story, from diagnosis to what I'm doing now. I'll share my family breast cancer history, and I'll post new things about breast cancer as well as updates on me. If what is said here touches at least one life for good, then I've accomplished what I set out to do. I look forward to reading your emails and with your permission I would like to, at times, post your stories here for others to gather inspiration, insight, compassion, and understanding.
BLOG! I'll share my story with you and some of the feelings that I experienced. If you are a cancer patient or know someone who has or had cancer, this is for you! I had two famous sayings that I said while going through my chemo and surgeries, "When Life Gives You Lemons ~ Make Lemonade!" and "When you laugh, the world laughs with you. When you cry, you cry alone!" I found that a sense of humor was the best cure for me, and I believe that humor and a positive attitude also helped my family and friends share in my experience as well.My blog will start off with my story, from diagnosis to what I'm doing now. I'll share my family breast cancer history, and I'll post new things about breast cancer as well as updates on me. If what is said here touches at least one life for good, then I've accomplished what I set out to do. I look forward to reading your emails and with your permission I would like to, at times, post your stories here for others to gather inspiration, insight, compassion, and understanding.
*******
Thank you so much for visiting!
Karen ~ Breast Cancer SURVIVOR
Karen ~ Breast Cancer SURVIVOR
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