Friday was Chemo day! A.K.A. Ted's first eviction notice!
Our day at the Cancer Clinic started with blood work at 10:45 am. This took all of 5 minutes and we were at least a half hour early because I thought my appointment was at 10:15 not 10:45....oops! They took me anyway because they were slow. So then we waited...my next appointment wasn't until 11:45. It's a good thing that the Cancer Clinic is a nice place because we will certainly be spending a lot of time there!
My 11:45 turned in to a 12:05 , thankfully Paul brought his iPod and we watched a movie while we waited. I could have read my book but it takes more concentration so I opted for a movie.
Dr. Potvin had a look and took some external measurements, then we were off to the Chemo waiting room.
The receptionist at Chemo was very nice! She could tell I was a little apprehensive and she told me that when I come out of there I'd feel better than I thought I would....as it turned out she was right!
Because my appointment with Dr. Potvin was delayed so was my Chemo. The receptionist came out of her office to find us and tell us this! I'm so not used to that! She suggested that we go and grab something to eat and the pager will alert us when they are ready for us. There is a Timmy's downstairs so we just went there. We grab a bite and just as we finished my pager was buzzing. Time for Chemo!
My nurse was Alison and she too was really great! She needed to take some blood before she started the Chemo drugs but she had a very difficult time finding a vein....3 different spots in either arm and my vein finally gave it up! Next time I'll need to drink a lot of water before going in to stop that from happening.
The first two drugs I got were from a syringe that she just pushed through the IV, as she was pushing through the second one she said "this one will really piss off Ted!" It's also the one that makes me lose my hair, so it's an eye for an eye Ted....I lose my hair you gotta lose something too!!! You've brought this upon yourself!
The third drug was a drip that took 45 minutes. I resumed watching a movie while Paul went out to make some sales calls in the lobby, before we knew it the 45 minutes was over and we were heading home!
The receptionist was right, I didn't feel any different! Until about 2 1/2 hours later.....good thing they sent me home with anti-nausea drugs because I've been taking them every 4 to 6 hours since we got home!!! It's not that bad and it will get worse as I go through more treatments but it's a terrible feeling and it really knock me on my butt!
I was in bed by 8:30 because I decided that I was just going to fall asleep on the couch anyway why not just go to bed. I awoke 4 hours later and still needed another anti-nausea, I woke up at 6:45 this morning....and took another! Wow! Now it's 7:30 am, I've done some work on our upcoming Charity Golf Tournament, I've blogged....I'm heading back to bed for a nap!!!
Friday, April 30, 2010
ECG & Ultra Sound Guided Biopsy
Wednesday was my ECG....really uneventful, hardly worth mentioning. Although of all the nurses and technicians I've had the pleasure of meeting....I can't say that of the technician who completed my ECG.
Thursday was my 2nd Ultra Sound Guided Biopsy. I was late getting there and didn't the Receptionist give me hell for it!! It was almost like I was the first person to ever be late for an appointment anywhere!!! "Luckily" she let me through. Martha was the x-ray tech for my test again, she's so great! I'll be seeing a lot more of her in the coming months which as weird as it sounds is a comfort. This time they took only 4 samples and only from "Ted". Hopefully I don't bruise as much as I did last time...won't that look "interesting" to other tourists in Mexico if it's as big a bruise as last time! That just makes it sound like my bathing suits are really skimpy....really they aren't!! The bruise was just THAT big!
One thing that I think is important to note is that when I had my first biopsy Martha said that the tumour was about 4 cm, but that I'm extremely cystic. I knew that the tumour had grown and it feels different quite often like it's moving around but when I told Martha that I didn't want to look at the screen during the ultra sound because I knew it was much bigger she had a look and assured me that it wasn't much bigger than it was a month ago! More than likely, but don't quote me, it is the "multiple" cysts I'm feeling. Again, cysts are harmless.....
So that brings us to today...it's my first Chemo day! Or rather today is the day that Ted gets his first eviction notice!
I'll blog all about it later tonight!
Thursday was my 2nd Ultra Sound Guided Biopsy. I was late getting there and didn't the Receptionist give me hell for it!! It was almost like I was the first person to ever be late for an appointment anywhere!!! "Luckily" she let me through. Martha was the x-ray tech for my test again, she's so great! I'll be seeing a lot more of her in the coming months which as weird as it sounds is a comfort. This time they took only 4 samples and only from "Ted". Hopefully I don't bruise as much as I did last time...won't that look "interesting" to other tourists in Mexico if it's as big a bruise as last time! That just makes it sound like my bathing suits are really skimpy....really they aren't!! The bruise was just THAT big!
One thing that I think is important to note is that when I had my first biopsy Martha said that the tumour was about 4 cm, but that I'm extremely cystic. I knew that the tumour had grown and it feels different quite often like it's moving around but when I told Martha that I didn't want to look at the screen during the ultra sound because I knew it was much bigger she had a look and assured me that it wasn't much bigger than it was a month ago! More than likely, but don't quote me, it is the "multiple" cysts I'm feeling. Again, cysts are harmless.....
So that brings us to today...it's my first Chemo day! Or rather today is the day that Ted gets his first eviction notice!
I'll blog all about it later tonight!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
More testing!
I am officially a pin cushion!
So, where did I leave off....oh yes, we felt really good after meeting Dr. Potvin on Friday.
We had a quiet weekend, Paul took me out for dinner at Moxie's on Friday night....it has become something of a weekly "thing" that Friday nights we eat out and we will continue to do so as long as I'm feeling up to it.
Saturday our good friends from Michigan came over for a much needed visit! They brought me a gift that I absolutely love! Thank you Ryan & Jocelyn and Aiden! The rest of Saturday was spent napping, with the beautiful quilt my Aunt & Uncle sent! It is so warm and will serve me well over the next few months. I'll call you guys soon! Thank you!
Sunday we headed up to the trailer to "open" up. Well, we unlocked the door, turned on the water, unloaded a bunch of stuff from the Jeep and then headed to Forest to visit with my family and spent the rest of the afternoon with them.
We returned home on Sunday afternoon and I decided that I would sit down and work on the Accounting program I'd started in January and that ends on April 28. When I was initially diagnosed I figured that I was done with it and really didn't care. However, it is rare that I don't complete a course once I start it so I figured I would at least try to get through it. So last night I wrote a test that I already know that I failed...at least I tried. Tonight I will complete the project and write the last test tomorrow...fingers crossed! Good thing I had a 90% average before failing that test, maybe I can redeem myself and at least "pass".
Monday April 26, my Mom picked me up at 8:00 am and we were off to South Street campus of the LHSC for a Bone Scan (the one that was originally scheduled for May 5). I learned as I sat in the waiting room that it was a really good thing that I changed my appointment! They are running out of something required for the test and have canceled appointments in the weeks to come because of the shortage! They injected me with some radio active material and told me to come back in 2 hours. We went for breakfast! Then to the wig store. I tried on a few different styles and I believe that I found one I like. Shorter for summer with some highlights, but still dark. I did try on one that is red with blond highlights and decided that it just doesn't suit me. Maybe I'll be more adventurous with hats!
I returned 2 hours later and they resumed the Bone scan...basically I laid on a bed on my bck and an x-ray camera moved from my head to toes over 18 minutes. Jane was the name of the technician and she also was fantastic. That test all done, Mom took me home and I headed to work.
There is so much to do at the office and so little time to get it done in.
Monday afternoon I received a number of phone calls from hospitals and doctor's offices telling me of more appointments that have been scheduled for me....a second ultra sound guided biopsy, an ECG, and changes to other appointments. Plus I had to schedule then reschedule a dental appointment that was suggested I get in before Chemo starts. There needs to be more hours in a day!
Tuesday, April 27, today! This morning we were at the Cancer Clinic for 8:30 am for an appointment we weren't even sure was still scheduled for that time....luckily we found that it wasn't changed, but it was going to be tight to get to the 10:00 am appointment back at South Street. We met Dr. Lock, my Radiation Oncologist. Nice guy that we'll see a lot of in the second phase of treatment. Another examination and we were off and running to the next appointment. We "raced" to South Street campus only to wait in the waiting room for a half hour. Eventually I was called in, again I changed in the hospital gown and was ready for the first part of this test. I was injected with more radio active stuff. I was laid on a table face down with a space for the girls to hang out for four 5 minute scans and one 18 minute scan....my neck was so sore after laying still for that long! The technician this time was Cheryl and she very comforting which made time pass quickly. When that was done I was told to be back in 2 hours!
We headed to the drug store to pick up our prescriptions that we'd dropped off on Saturday. Thank goodness for good drug plans! One of my prescriptions was $2600.00! Yes, you read that right!!
Back to the hospital for round 2...same test as two hour earlier except now the stuff they injected in me had time to move around.
I also had to get some blood work done....actually I was supposed to go on Monday but totally forgot! This is what happens when you just have to show up with no appointment....but I got it done today.
We left the hospital at 2:30 and headed for home. At 3:30 I was off and running again! To the dentist for the last check up/cleaning before Chemo starts. Good news...there's nothing wrong with my teeth! One less thing to worry about! One more good thing...I can't floss until Chemo is over! Haha! I do it now but I find it to be a chore!
Next Steps:
Okay, I've got to go get some homework done.... More to come!
So, where did I leave off....oh yes, we felt really good after meeting Dr. Potvin on Friday.
We had a quiet weekend, Paul took me out for dinner at Moxie's on Friday night....it has become something of a weekly "thing" that Friday nights we eat out and we will continue to do so as long as I'm feeling up to it.
Saturday our good friends from Michigan came over for a much needed visit! They brought me a gift that I absolutely love! Thank you Ryan & Jocelyn and Aiden! The rest of Saturday was spent napping, with the beautiful quilt my Aunt & Uncle sent! It is so warm and will serve me well over the next few months. I'll call you guys soon! Thank you!
Sunday we headed up to the trailer to "open" up. Well, we unlocked the door, turned on the water, unloaded a bunch of stuff from the Jeep and then headed to Forest to visit with my family and spent the rest of the afternoon with them.
We returned home on Sunday afternoon and I decided that I would sit down and work on the Accounting program I'd started in January and that ends on April 28. When I was initially diagnosed I figured that I was done with it and really didn't care. However, it is rare that I don't complete a course once I start it so I figured I would at least try to get through it. So last night I wrote a test that I already know that I failed...at least I tried. Tonight I will complete the project and write the last test tomorrow...fingers crossed! Good thing I had a 90% average before failing that test, maybe I can redeem myself and at least "pass".
Monday April 26, my Mom picked me up at 8:00 am and we were off to South Street campus of the LHSC for a Bone Scan (the one that was originally scheduled for May 5). I learned as I sat in the waiting room that it was a really good thing that I changed my appointment! They are running out of something required for the test and have canceled appointments in the weeks to come because of the shortage! They injected me with some radio active material and told me to come back in 2 hours. We went for breakfast! Then to the wig store. I tried on a few different styles and I believe that I found one I like. Shorter for summer with some highlights, but still dark. I did try on one that is red with blond highlights and decided that it just doesn't suit me. Maybe I'll be more adventurous with hats!
I returned 2 hours later and they resumed the Bone scan...basically I laid on a bed on my bck and an x-ray camera moved from my head to toes over 18 minutes. Jane was the name of the technician and she also was fantastic. That test all done, Mom took me home and I headed to work.
There is so much to do at the office and so little time to get it done in.
Monday afternoon I received a number of phone calls from hospitals and doctor's offices telling me of more appointments that have been scheduled for me....a second ultra sound guided biopsy, an ECG, and changes to other appointments. Plus I had to schedule then reschedule a dental appointment that was suggested I get in before Chemo starts. There needs to be more hours in a day!
Tuesday, April 27, today! This morning we were at the Cancer Clinic for 8:30 am for an appointment we weren't even sure was still scheduled for that time....luckily we found that it wasn't changed, but it was going to be tight to get to the 10:00 am appointment back at South Street. We met Dr. Lock, my Radiation Oncologist. Nice guy that we'll see a lot of in the second phase of treatment. Another examination and we were off and running to the next appointment. We "raced" to South Street campus only to wait in the waiting room for a half hour. Eventually I was called in, again I changed in the hospital gown and was ready for the first part of this test. I was injected with more radio active stuff. I was laid on a table face down with a space for the girls to hang out for four 5 minute scans and one 18 minute scan....my neck was so sore after laying still for that long! The technician this time was Cheryl and she very comforting which made time pass quickly. When that was done I was told to be back in 2 hours!
We headed to the drug store to pick up our prescriptions that we'd dropped off on Saturday. Thank goodness for good drug plans! One of my prescriptions was $2600.00! Yes, you read that right!!
Back to the hospital for round 2...same test as two hour earlier except now the stuff they injected in me had time to move around.
I also had to get some blood work done....actually I was supposed to go on Monday but totally forgot! This is what happens when you just have to show up with no appointment....but I got it done today.
We left the hospital at 2:30 and headed for home. At 3:30 I was off and running again! To the dentist for the last check up/cleaning before Chemo starts. Good news...there's nothing wrong with my teeth! One less thing to worry about! One more good thing...I can't floss until Chemo is over! Haha! I do it now but I find it to be a chore!
Next Steps:
- Wednesday April 28, 2010 - Working in the morning, ECG at University Hospital in the afternoon. And once I've been to University Hospital I've hit 'em all!!! Do I win a prize for that?!?
- Thursday April 29, 2010 - Working in the morning, ANOTHER Ultra Sound Guided Biopsy in the afternoon back at St. Joes. Then I can't do any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 24 to 48 hours. Too bad, Thursday is laundry night!
- Friday April 30, 2010 - 10:45 am Blood work, 11:45 am appointment with Dr. Potvin before Chemo at 1:15 pm. If Chemo is done early enough I have a "Chemo class" to attend. I'm supposed to take the class before Chemo starts but with such a tight schedule it is next to impossible.
- Saturday May 1, 2010 - A nurse comes to my house to inject me with something that I can't remember the name of (it's the really expensive drug mentioned earlier), but I'll get it 24 hours after each round of the first phase of treatment. Then we are heading to Toronto because we fly out to Mexico Sunday morning and I didn't think I'd really enjoy getting up at home before 5:00 am to jump on a bus to Toronto on Sunday. So we'll take our time getting there and then just hang out in our hotel room Saturday night, get a good nights sleep and head to the air port at 7:00 am on Sunday.
- Sunday May 2, 2010 - MEXICO!
Okay, I've got to go get some homework done.... More to come!
Friday, April 23, 2010
Friday April 23, 2010 - CT Scan & Meeting the Medical Oncologist
Friday April 23, 2010 I had a CT scan...I couldn't eat for 4 hours before I arrived at the hospital. We arrived at 12:40 pm, I had to sit in the waiting room and consume 3 glasses of a contrast solution required for the exam. I had the exam at 1:40 pm and it took all of 15 minutes....maybe less.
From there we went over to the Cancer Clinic to meet with the Medical Oncologist. Actually first we met with the RN Chantal...she was great! She told us exactly what was going to happen during our first meeting. Next a resident came in and talked to us more about what was going on inside me and what the next steps would be, and she examined and measured my newly nicknamed tumour......"Ted". Paul gave it this name....Ted's a jerk and is not welcome here!
Oh, and it was discovered that I have a heart murmur! Great! One more thing.... Why was I never told this before?!? Apparently it's quite normal and nothing to be concerned about.
We asked the resident (Isabel?...can't remember, will find out for sure) if there was any way we would be able to travel with the Family to Mexico on May 2 for our nieces wedding...the resident say "no". Paul immediately disliked her! But, we've known all along that it was a real possibility that we might have to cancel. We had decided that we wouldn't cancel the trip until the very last possible moment...just in case.
Dr. Potvin was next, she's the Medical Oncologist.....and as Paul puts it she looks like a "TV Doctor". She really does! She was fantastic and really put us at ease about everything that is going to happen.
As long as my next few tests come back with the right results (of which I can't remember right now what those are) I will be part of a study. Basically I get the same drugs as the standard treatment but I get them in a different order. First I will go through 3 cycles of the first 3 drugs (all at once) at 3 week intervals. Then I will get the 4th drug in 3 cycles at 3 week intervals. While I'm getting this 4th drug I will undergo Radiation at the same time. Four weeks after I'm done radiation (and my hair is growing back) I will have a mastectomy to remove the breast. Three out of four women who have already gone through this were found to have absolutely no cancer cells left when they went for their mastectomy! Of course this is what I wish for myself. After the study was explained in detail I signed the consent form.
Dr. Potvin told us about all of the side effects....total hair loss, nausea, tired during radiation, "sunburn" type reaction at the radiation site, and a bunch more possibilities.
We were also told that "Ted" has no friends! My CT scan results came back with no other tumours and nothing of any real concern. I do have a cyst on one of my ovaries, of which is normal for women in their 30's and a small cyst on my liver that the doctor is not concerned about but both will be checked again in 6 months anyway.
The resident had mentioned to Dr. Potvin that we had a trip booked....this is where Paul falls in love with my doctor....she said we could go!!! Lots of patients travel in the early stages of their treatment with little to no trouble! So I will have my first chemo treatment on Friday April 30, a nurse will come to the house 24 hours later on the Saturday morning and will give me an injection and I'm good to go! I have 2 prescriptions to have filled so that if I start to get a fever I take them immediately and it should just go away but I'm to report to the resort's on-call doctor should this happen. I just have to take it easy and not over do it while we're there.....no more baking in the sun and making friends with the bartender. Oh well! That's not anything I can't handle. We have a lot of running around and packing to do now!
Along with my prescription for the travel drugs I left with a prescription for a wig! I can get anything I want....how do you think I'll look as a blonde? Jet black? Red? Maybe I'll get all of them! This could turn out to be fun!...sort of....there is still Ted to deal with.
There are programs offered by the clinic that we intend to take full advantage of. One that Jennifer will have to go with me is called "Look Good Feel Great"....finally Jen will learn how to paint on my eye brows! Haha!!
I will be meeting with another doctor in a few weeks to discuss "Complimentary Therapies"....things like nutrition and stuff I can be doing on my own at home that will help evict Ted.
We found the Cancer Clinic to be a pleasant atmosphere (almost "hotel like") and everyone who works there to be very nice. It's really not as scary as I thought it would be.
When we finally left the Cancer Clinic we felt as though a huge weight had been lifted from our shoulders and a much brighter outlook on our future! What a relief! Dillon's right....there is Hope!
Next Steps:
From there we went over to the Cancer Clinic to meet with the Medical Oncologist. Actually first we met with the RN Chantal...she was great! She told us exactly what was going to happen during our first meeting. Next a resident came in and talked to us more about what was going on inside me and what the next steps would be, and she examined and measured my newly nicknamed tumour......"Ted". Paul gave it this name....Ted's a jerk and is not welcome here!
Oh, and it was discovered that I have a heart murmur! Great! One more thing.... Why was I never told this before?!? Apparently it's quite normal and nothing to be concerned about.
We asked the resident (Isabel?...can't remember, will find out for sure) if there was any way we would be able to travel with the Family to Mexico on May 2 for our nieces wedding...the resident say "no". Paul immediately disliked her! But, we've known all along that it was a real possibility that we might have to cancel. We had decided that we wouldn't cancel the trip until the very last possible moment...just in case.
Dr. Potvin was next, she's the Medical Oncologist.....and as Paul puts it she looks like a "TV Doctor". She really does! She was fantastic and really put us at ease about everything that is going to happen.
As long as my next few tests come back with the right results (of which I can't remember right now what those are) I will be part of a study. Basically I get the same drugs as the standard treatment but I get them in a different order. First I will go through 3 cycles of the first 3 drugs (all at once) at 3 week intervals. Then I will get the 4th drug in 3 cycles at 3 week intervals. While I'm getting this 4th drug I will undergo Radiation at the same time. Four weeks after I'm done radiation (and my hair is growing back) I will have a mastectomy to remove the breast. Three out of four women who have already gone through this were found to have absolutely no cancer cells left when they went for their mastectomy! Of course this is what I wish for myself. After the study was explained in detail I signed the consent form.
Dr. Potvin told us about all of the side effects....total hair loss, nausea, tired during radiation, "sunburn" type reaction at the radiation site, and a bunch more possibilities.
We were also told that "Ted" has no friends! My CT scan results came back with no other tumours and nothing of any real concern. I do have a cyst on one of my ovaries, of which is normal for women in their 30's and a small cyst on my liver that the doctor is not concerned about but both will be checked again in 6 months anyway.
The resident had mentioned to Dr. Potvin that we had a trip booked....this is where Paul falls in love with my doctor....she said we could go!!! Lots of patients travel in the early stages of their treatment with little to no trouble! So I will have my first chemo treatment on Friday April 30, a nurse will come to the house 24 hours later on the Saturday morning and will give me an injection and I'm good to go! I have 2 prescriptions to have filled so that if I start to get a fever I take them immediately and it should just go away but I'm to report to the resort's on-call doctor should this happen. I just have to take it easy and not over do it while we're there.....no more baking in the sun and making friends with the bartender. Oh well! That's not anything I can't handle. We have a lot of running around and packing to do now!
Along with my prescription for the travel drugs I left with a prescription for a wig! I can get anything I want....how do you think I'll look as a blonde? Jet black? Red? Maybe I'll get all of them! This could turn out to be fun!...sort of....there is still Ted to deal with.
There are programs offered by the clinic that we intend to take full advantage of. One that Jennifer will have to go with me is called "Look Good Feel Great"....finally Jen will learn how to paint on my eye brows! Haha!!
I will be meeting with another doctor in a few weeks to discuss "Complimentary Therapies"....things like nutrition and stuff I can be doing on my own at home that will help evict Ted.
We found the Cancer Clinic to be a pleasant atmosphere (almost "hotel like") and everyone who works there to be very nice. It's really not as scary as I thought it would be.
When we finally left the Cancer Clinic we felt as though a huge weight had been lifted from our shoulders and a much brighter outlook on our future! What a relief! Dillon's right....there is Hope!
Next Steps:
- Monday - bone scan and blood tests and hopefully going to work in the afternoon.
- Tuesday - meet with yet another Oncologist... I'm unsure of what about at this point. Then work.
- Wednesday - Work!
- Thursday - Work!
- Friday - First Chemo, not sure about work after that one.
- Saturday - Travel shots
- Sunday - MEXICO!!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Dillon's song - Hope
My 16 year old nephew is a talented musician and he wrote this song. He recorded it and sent it to me...and even though he had a cold at the time he recorded it it still sounded amazing! I was so moved! I asked him if I could share it with you and he agreed. Thank you Dillon! I love you!
Hope
All through life we're met with changes
Some are not that great
Though we push on further and further
Trying to fix them before it's too late
Now that we know just where we're going
We calm our nerves and go on with life
Though we both know that it's been altered
We put on a smile and deal with the strife
Although we know
Hope is what carries all of us
Gets us through stress and deals with the pain
It helps us deal with changes in our lives
Hope is what pulls us through
Hope can take anyone anywhere
If you just let it take you away
Take me away
Take me away
Let it take you away
A wise man once said nothing matters as long as you have hope
You can do anything you can beat everthing as long as you have hope
Hope is everything hope is anything
Now you just gotta believe
But we both know
Hope will carry us further and further
It takes away our pain
It's there when you need it oh just believe it
It's there when you need it oh just believe it
Hope can take you away
Hope can take me hope will take me
I know we're gunna succeed
Just follow meI know we're gunna succeed
Solo
Oh yes hope will carry us further and further
Till nothing else stands in our way
We can beat this we will beat this
Now you've just gotta believe
Update
My first meeting with my Oncologist is scheduled for 2:45 pm on Friday April 23.
From what I have heard Dr. Potbin (sp?) is really good at what she does! I certainly hope so!!!
From what I have heard Dr. Potbin (sp?) is really good at what she does! I certainly hope so!!!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Today - Monday April 19, 2010
I went to work today! I love my job....I have always loved my job, and I always will! But, I've never loved it so much as when I walked through the door today and I can't wait to be back tomorrow! I loved the very warm welcome I received from everyone!
Two appointments booked:
Two appointments booked:
- Friday April 23 at 12:40 pm is my CT Scan....already mentioned.
- Monday April 26 at 8:30 am is my Bone Scan, originally booked for May 5th!! I had to call the Doctor's office myself today to "retrieve" this one! To them I'm just a name on a page...but they are not living in my head and waiting for more info! I called and was told May 5...they gave me the phone number for "Central Booking" so I called it and had it changed! Not only is May 5 our wedding anniversary it is also a week and a half away and I'm not waiting that long if I don't have to!
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Out of curiosity....
By a show of hands (or comments) how many of you have checked yourselves for lumps since finding out about me?
No?!? Get checking ladies!!
No?!? Get checking ladies!!
Friday, April 16, 2010
Thank you!
It's been a week since we learned that I have Breast Cancer. The outpouring of love, support and encouragement has been amazing!
Thank you to everyone who have sent flowers, gifts, cards and emails. Thank you for your phone calls, for stopping by the house and for offering whatever we need! Now is not the time for us to turn down your offers of help. We will not hesitate to ask for it if/when we need it!
At times like these the words "Thank You" hardly seem sufficient but until I find a better way to say it please know that we truly Thank each and everyone of you from the very deepest parts of our hearts!
Thank you to everyone who have sent flowers, gifts, cards and emails. Thank you for your phone calls, for stopping by the house and for offering whatever we need! Now is not the time for us to turn down your offers of help. We will not hesitate to ask for it if/when we need it!
At times like these the words "Thank You" hardly seem sufficient but until I find a better way to say it please know that we truly Thank each and everyone of you from the very deepest parts of our hearts!
Meeting the Surgeon
So I got the results on the Monday April 12, 2010 - we were devastated and spent a lot of time holding each other and crying. More than once I asked "why me?" "What did I do to deserve this?!?"
Along with the team of workers in our basement we had many visitors that day...I don't know if they basement guys knew what was going on but I'm sure they wondered why so many people kept showing up and weren't asking about the basement. Drinks were totally called for that night! I did not sleep for more than an hour Monday night and it definitely wasn't all at once. This made Tuesday a long day.
Tuesday April 13, 2010 - even though my best friend Jennifer had rushed to my side on Monday she returned to spend the day with me on Tuesday! Her presence was a much needed distraction. Jennifer always knows just what to say to make me feel better. We hung out around the house and talked about everything and anything and nothing all at the same time! Paul showed up at the house after making some sales calls and took Jen and I out for lunch. I hadn't eaten since the Monday morning so I was in dire need of sustenance. After returning from lunch Jen and I took a walk around the neighbourhood and a nearby park. After a day spent with Jen I had a much better outlook.....just take it one day at a time! I made a conscience decision that Wednesday would be spent working. I drove over to the office after it was closed to drop off some work I had completed and pick up more. I went home and slept all night!
Wednesday April 14, 2010 - I awoke at 7:00 am, I was giddy! I was so happy to have slept all night that I just wanted to get up and get the day started! So I did. I sat at my dining room table with my work spread out in front of me and worked all day! I received 2 beautiful flower arrangements from our family at UPI which did brighten my day greatly! However the meeting with the Surgeon was looming and making me very nervous. I slept alright.
Thursday April 14, 2010 - Meeting the Surgeon
Another nerve racking day! I was on an emotional roller coaster from the moment I woke up but our appointment wasn't until 2:45 so I had some time fill. More flowers arrived and I cried....they were so beautiful but I hated receiving them because it meant that I really am sick. Paul arrived at home around 1:30 and we headed to the hospital. We sat in the waiting room for 45 minutes. I spent a little time with God as we waited. I prayed that he would give me the strength to get through the day and to accept what lay ahead for me and for us. I prayed that Paul would have the strength to walk the road with me.
I pray a lot for Paul. I know how much he loves me and that he would do absolutely anything for me but I still pray for his strength.
Finally we were called in....to wait some more! We waited in the doctor's office, as usual I had to change into the robe. I'm thinking of just getting my own! I've worn them so often lately and will be wearing more and more of them! Anyway, we waited. The nurse came in and went over my previous tests with us and then examined me. First time Paul got to see someone else touching me! Haha! Not as "hot" as he thought it would be! She left, we waited some more for the Doctor. Dr. Lesley Scott came in to talk to us about my cancer and what the course of treatment will be. She too examined me and told us that there would be more testing before my treatment would start. I would need another biopsy to determine what type of Chemo I will require. I have to have a bone scan and a CT scan. These tests would happen the following week and treatments would start probably the week after. It was decided that I would go through Chemo and Radiation at the same time and surgery to follow. My hope is that the Chemo and Radiation will shrink the lump down to nothing so I don't have to have the Mastectomy....but for now it's treatment, positive thinking and prayer! He will get us through!!!
So far my CT scan is scheduled for Friday April 23....no other dates yet.
Along with the team of workers in our basement we had many visitors that day...I don't know if they basement guys knew what was going on but I'm sure they wondered why so many people kept showing up and weren't asking about the basement. Drinks were totally called for that night! I did not sleep for more than an hour Monday night and it definitely wasn't all at once. This made Tuesday a long day.
Tuesday April 13, 2010 - even though my best friend Jennifer had rushed to my side on Monday she returned to spend the day with me on Tuesday! Her presence was a much needed distraction. Jennifer always knows just what to say to make me feel better. We hung out around the house and talked about everything and anything and nothing all at the same time! Paul showed up at the house after making some sales calls and took Jen and I out for lunch. I hadn't eaten since the Monday morning so I was in dire need of sustenance. After returning from lunch Jen and I took a walk around the neighbourhood and a nearby park. After a day spent with Jen I had a much better outlook.....just take it one day at a time! I made a conscience decision that Wednesday would be spent working. I drove over to the office after it was closed to drop off some work I had completed and pick up more. I went home and slept all night!
Wednesday April 14, 2010 - I awoke at 7:00 am, I was giddy! I was so happy to have slept all night that I just wanted to get up and get the day started! So I did. I sat at my dining room table with my work spread out in front of me and worked all day! I received 2 beautiful flower arrangements from our family at UPI which did brighten my day greatly! However the meeting with the Surgeon was looming and making me very nervous. I slept alright.
Thursday April 14, 2010 - Meeting the Surgeon
Another nerve racking day! I was on an emotional roller coaster from the moment I woke up but our appointment wasn't until 2:45 so I had some time fill. More flowers arrived and I cried....they were so beautiful but I hated receiving them because it meant that I really am sick. Paul arrived at home around 1:30 and we headed to the hospital. We sat in the waiting room for 45 minutes. I spent a little time with God as we waited. I prayed that he would give me the strength to get through the day and to accept what lay ahead for me and for us. I prayed that Paul would have the strength to walk the road with me.
I pray a lot for Paul. I know how much he loves me and that he would do absolutely anything for me but I still pray for his strength.
Finally we were called in....to wait some more! We waited in the doctor's office, as usual I had to change into the robe. I'm thinking of just getting my own! I've worn them so often lately and will be wearing more and more of them! Anyway, we waited. The nurse came in and went over my previous tests with us and then examined me. First time Paul got to see someone else touching me! Haha! Not as "hot" as he thought it would be! She left, we waited some more for the Doctor. Dr. Lesley Scott came in to talk to us about my cancer and what the course of treatment will be. She too examined me and told us that there would be more testing before my treatment would start. I would need another biopsy to determine what type of Chemo I will require. I have to have a bone scan and a CT scan. These tests would happen the following week and treatments would start probably the week after. It was decided that I would go through Chemo and Radiation at the same time and surgery to follow. My hope is that the Chemo and Radiation will shrink the lump down to nothing so I don't have to have the Mastectomy....but for now it's treatment, positive thinking and prayer! He will get us through!!!
So far my CT scan is scheduled for Friday April 23....no other dates yet.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
From Discovery to Diagnosis
Discovery - Sunday January 17, 2010.
It was a busy weekend for us. We were lying in bed talking about getting up and getting ready for the day when.....okay I admit, Paul found it. Total mood killer! We were immediately horrified but knew I could not get in to see my doctor that day. I had decided that I would use a holiday that Monday and get it looked at. I called to make the appointment and was happy to find that they would fit me in on Monday evening. Paul, of course, was with me and patiently sat in the waiting room for me to return.
I explained to my Doctor what we thought we had found and she examined me. She told me that it was more than likely just a cyst but I should have a mammogram just to be sure. My first reaction was "Breast cyst? What's that?" "Perfectly normal" she said. "Women get them all the time. You can have them and never know....they are harmless." You can imagine how happy I was to learn this. It was just a cyst....I slept very well that night.
Mammogram - February 6, 2010
It was a Saturday! I had no idea that they'd be open on a Saturday. I was thrilled... no time away from work just to have them look at it and tell me it's a cyst. The nurse was great! Even though it hurt like hell she made it easier. We were in and out within about 20 minutes and were to expect results in 7 to 10 days.
Mammogram Results - February 18, 2010
At least that was the date of the letter that I received from my Doctor's office telling me that I was booked for an Ultra Sound! "What?!? It's just a cyst why more tests?"
Gene Simmons Family Jewels - yes, you read that right.
The first two episodes of the new season struck very close to home...Shannon Tweed (Gene's "wife") discovered a lump while Gene was on tour with KISS. She went to the Doctor and had an ultra sound followed up by an ultra sound guided core biopsy! Shannon's results....just a cyst! I cried through the entire show....but I was still staying positive that mine was also just a cyst.
Ultra Sound - March 30, 2010 at St. Joe's Hospital.....yep, almost 2 full months after the Mammogram. Again, the nurse/technician was awesome! Martha was her name. She told me that I had multiple cysts and a mass that she was unable to identify as a cyst.
Ultra Sound Results - IMMEDIATE! And an appointment for a Core Biopsy in 2 days.... things are moving much faster now! But I'm living a parallel life to Shannon Tweed.....I'm also married to the "Demon"! (If anyone knows Paul they know he is a huge fan of KISS and in the summer of 2009 painted his face just like Gene Simmons and went to their concert in Sarnia)
Ultra Sound Guided Core Biopsy - April 1, 2010....no joke!
The doctor took 6 samples, 3 from the lump and 3 from a lymph node. Again, Martha was awesome and made it as comfortable as possible while the doctor used me as a pin cushion. I was told that I'd have results in 7 to 10 days and that I should call my family Doctor's office immediately to set up an appointment to discuss them. I was told to expect some bruising but....holy cow!!! It looked like i tried to catch a baseball with it!!
I did as I was told and I called to make an appointment with my Doctor to discuss the results of my biopsy. April 30 was the soonest I could get in! I actually said "April 30?!? That's ridiculous!!!" I booked the appointment and decided that I would just start calling every day asking if my results were back. Then I got a call back from Jillian from Mammography at St. Joe's telling me that I was booked for an MRI on April 8. I was instantly scared....even more than I already was! This was nothing like the parallel life I was supposedly leading!
MRI - April 8, 2010
That's just a big tanning bed that makes all kinds of irritating loud noises! In and out within an hour. No instructions given...no one told me when to expect results. I left feeling frustrated. But again, the technicians that worked with me were awesome!
D-Day - April 12, 2010
This could not have been a worse day to get my results. I was home waiting for contractors to show up to jack up the foundation of our house. Minutes before the contractors arrive the phone rings...it's the Doctor's office....correction....it's the Doctor calling me herself!!! Instantly I knew she was not calling with good news. Of course she was unable to tell me anything over the phone so I had to drag Paul out of work and head to her office. Shortly after the contractors arrived we left...I hope they didn't have any questions for us!
The entire ride across the city to my Doctor's office felt like it took a year! I gripped Paul's hand so tight I'm sure it was close to breaking but he never complained. We arrived and took our seats in the waiting room. Before long we were called in. My Doctor delivered the awful news.....I immediately fell apart. I had spent 3 months convincing myself that it was nothing! I was wrong, very wrong.
My Doctor did not have much more to tell me other than it was Breast Cancer, my lymph node was clear and that I would be contacted later that day with an appointment to meet with the Surgeon. A Mastectomy is what was to happen.
We drove home....to a house full of guys working in our basement. It was time to let everyone know what was going on with me. For 3 months we had kept it to ourselves and it was starting to become obvious that something was going on. Why would I be using half sick days once or twice a week....?
Needless to say the news was a shock to everyone!
As promised the Doctor called later that afternoon to say that I had an appointment on April 14 at 2:45pm with Dr. Lesley Scott.
It was a busy weekend for us. We were lying in bed talking about getting up and getting ready for the day when.....okay I admit, Paul found it. Total mood killer! We were immediately horrified but knew I could not get in to see my doctor that day. I had decided that I would use a holiday that Monday and get it looked at. I called to make the appointment and was happy to find that they would fit me in on Monday evening. Paul, of course, was with me and patiently sat in the waiting room for me to return.
I explained to my Doctor what we thought we had found and she examined me. She told me that it was more than likely just a cyst but I should have a mammogram just to be sure. My first reaction was "Breast cyst? What's that?" "Perfectly normal" she said. "Women get them all the time. You can have them and never know....they are harmless." You can imagine how happy I was to learn this. It was just a cyst....I slept very well that night.
Mammogram - February 6, 2010
It was a Saturday! I had no idea that they'd be open on a Saturday. I was thrilled... no time away from work just to have them look at it and tell me it's a cyst. The nurse was great! Even though it hurt like hell she made it easier. We were in and out within about 20 minutes and were to expect results in 7 to 10 days.
Mammogram Results - February 18, 2010
At least that was the date of the letter that I received from my Doctor's office telling me that I was booked for an Ultra Sound! "What?!? It's just a cyst why more tests?"
Gene Simmons Family Jewels - yes, you read that right.
The first two episodes of the new season struck very close to home...Shannon Tweed (Gene's "wife") discovered a lump while Gene was on tour with KISS. She went to the Doctor and had an ultra sound followed up by an ultra sound guided core biopsy! Shannon's results....just a cyst! I cried through the entire show....but I was still staying positive that mine was also just a cyst.
Ultra Sound - March 30, 2010 at St. Joe's Hospital.....yep, almost 2 full months after the Mammogram. Again, the nurse/technician was awesome! Martha was her name. She told me that I had multiple cysts and a mass that she was unable to identify as a cyst.
Ultra Sound Results - IMMEDIATE! And an appointment for a Core Biopsy in 2 days.... things are moving much faster now! But I'm living a parallel life to Shannon Tweed.....I'm also married to the "Demon"! (If anyone knows Paul they know he is a huge fan of KISS and in the summer of 2009 painted his face just like Gene Simmons and went to their concert in Sarnia)
Ultra Sound Guided Core Biopsy - April 1, 2010....no joke!
The doctor took 6 samples, 3 from the lump and 3 from a lymph node. Again, Martha was awesome and made it as comfortable as possible while the doctor used me as a pin cushion. I was told that I'd have results in 7 to 10 days and that I should call my family Doctor's office immediately to set up an appointment to discuss them. I was told to expect some bruising but....holy cow!!! It looked like i tried to catch a baseball with it!!
I did as I was told and I called to make an appointment with my Doctor to discuss the results of my biopsy. April 30 was the soonest I could get in! I actually said "April 30?!? That's ridiculous!!!" I booked the appointment and decided that I would just start calling every day asking if my results were back. Then I got a call back from Jillian from Mammography at St. Joe's telling me that I was booked for an MRI on April 8. I was instantly scared....even more than I already was! This was nothing like the parallel life I was supposedly leading!
MRI - April 8, 2010
That's just a big tanning bed that makes all kinds of irritating loud noises! In and out within an hour. No instructions given...no one told me when to expect results. I left feeling frustrated. But again, the technicians that worked with me were awesome!
D-Day - April 12, 2010
This could not have been a worse day to get my results. I was home waiting for contractors to show up to jack up the foundation of our house. Minutes before the contractors arrive the phone rings...it's the Doctor's office....correction....it's the Doctor calling me herself!!! Instantly I knew she was not calling with good news. Of course she was unable to tell me anything over the phone so I had to drag Paul out of work and head to her office. Shortly after the contractors arrived we left...I hope they didn't have any questions for us!
The entire ride across the city to my Doctor's office felt like it took a year! I gripped Paul's hand so tight I'm sure it was close to breaking but he never complained. We arrived and took our seats in the waiting room. Before long we were called in. My Doctor delivered the awful news.....I immediately fell apart. I had spent 3 months convincing myself that it was nothing! I was wrong, very wrong.
My Doctor did not have much more to tell me other than it was Breast Cancer, my lymph node was clear and that I would be contacted later that day with an appointment to meet with the Surgeon. A Mastectomy is what was to happen.
We drove home....to a house full of guys working in our basement. It was time to let everyone know what was going on with me. For 3 months we had kept it to ourselves and it was starting to become obvious that something was going on. Why would I be using half sick days once or twice a week....?
Needless to say the news was a shock to everyone!
As promised the Doctor called later that afternoon to say that I had an appointment on April 14 at 2:45pm with Dr. Lesley Scott.
Welcome to my Blog!
I've never thought that a Blog was something that I would want nor need to do, but due to my recent diagnosis of Breast Cancer I have decided that a Blog would help me to sort out my own head and to let my family and friends know exactly what's going on with me. In the few days since I received the devastating news I've found that talking about it helps so writing about it should also help!
So here it is, my first Blog! I intend to be blatantly honest and give full disclosure about "My Life With Breast Cancer". I'll post as often as I can or as I have more to tell. Please feel free to leave a comment if you'd like!
To start....a HUGE Thank You to everyone for your love and support of both Paul and I as we start down the rough road ahead! We are very appreciative!!! People beat this every day and I intend to be one of them!
Stay tuned!
So here it is, my first Blog! I intend to be blatantly honest and give full disclosure about "My Life With Breast Cancer". I'll post as often as I can or as I have more to tell. Please feel free to leave a comment if you'd like!
To start....a HUGE Thank You to everyone for your love and support of both Paul and I as we start down the rough road ahead! We are very appreciative!!! People beat this every day and I intend to be one of them!
Stay tuned!
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