View Full Version : Cancer Support and Caregivers Who Are Trail Blazers!
Countyfem
12-14-2011, 11:00 AM
Great night, almost 6 hours sleep! Walking the halls has commenced, pain is managed. She's starting to feel froggy again!
Novelafemme
12-14-2011, 11:26 AM
{{{{Jo}}}}} Oh dear :(
YAY CLAY!!!
DapperButch
12-14-2011, 06:52 PM
Great night, almost 6 hours sleep! Walking the halls has commenced, pain is managed. She's starting to feel froggy again!
Tell that woman I said it is about time she got up out of that bed! ;)
Countyfem
12-15-2011, 01:36 PM
Hey all, everything is well as expected, she got a shower today and is now in her own clothes so not only does she smell better :) she looks more herself.
Doc may put a PIC line in tomorrow as she really needs some calories, she is weak as a newborn colt. Her gut started making more noise today but isn't at the point where she can lose the n/g, therefore cannot intake any substance.
But overall her spirit is good, she is back to cracking jokes just have to be patient a little longer.
FYI she says NEVER to have two major surgery's at once, takes too much outta ya.
Countyfem
12-16-2011, 09:42 AM
Morning everyone, PICC line is going in as I type...I hope once they get some nutrients into her she will feel stronger, had a good night they tried to keep the room visits down to every 4 hours as oppossed to the every two that they had been doing. She has had a real good group of folks looking after her and they don't seem to mind me butting in snicker...
Hope evryone is doing well, Jo my prayers are with you and your mom
midwest chick
12-16-2011, 10:00 AM
Ok, so just need to lay this out, I really don't understand how in the world this can happen today.
My dad called me Thanksgiving weekend, for a family update. I come from a large family, so it usually takes a while, and that's fine, but at the end of the conversation, he says (rather casually)
"and Robin is recovering from her stroke, and is now walking"
uhhmmm Robin is only 42, WHAT stroke??!!?? She has 4 young children...
"and Meagan's Doctors are giving her 6 months, her biopsy came back Stage IV cervical cancer, and it's in the llymph nodes that they took from her groin and underarms"
WTH---Meagan, my niece, is only 23!! And she usually does her PAPs every 2 years, and she had the vaccine....it's not like she's 30, and never been to the gyn...that's fast growing, it's already in her lymph nodes, and it's bilateral.
have been wigged out for almost a month about this, some of the shock has worn off, but still floored.
Will be making the 10 hour drive more frequently...
Countyfem
12-17-2011, 05:30 PM
Well the PICC didn't go, they sent the in-room group to handle it and they couldn't get to the vein . They did start her on a intravenous solution which has perked her up...Monday they will send her to the OR and cut the PICC in...
On a good note she has been declared cancer free! all Bi-ops came back clear from the surrounding tissue...
Midnight
12-17-2011, 05:49 PM
Well the PICC didn't go, they sent the in-room group to handle it and they couldn't get to the vein . They did start her on a intravenous solution which has perked her up...Monday they will send her to the OR and cut the PICC in...
On a good note she has been declared cancer free! all Bi-ops came back clear from the surrounding tissue...
Thats great news Country! Sometimes they put a PICC in via radiology (Ultrasound guided). The TPN will be great for her nutrition and hopefully she will see a dietician when she is allowed to start eating again. (After the clear fluid then free fluid stages :) )
JustJo
12-17-2011, 08:14 PM
The last two days my mother has been getting dizzy when she stands up or walks far at all...evidently this is the dehydration problem returning. They cut her TPN back to 12 hours a day right before she came....so one week later, she's fading.
I have a call in to her oncologist and he'll be adjusting her back to 24/7 TPN. She's not happy about this, but clearly she needs it. In the meantime, Rooster and I are both bringing her drinks every hour or two...otherwise she "forgets." She has never been a plain water drinker....part of the problem.
The doctors are also saying she should not have abdominal pain anymore, shouldn't need her pain meds, and should be able to eat and drink virtually normally. She insists that she can't...and truly seems to be able to eat a maximum of 4 or 5 bites of very soft food. Her abdomen clearly hurts...and she's still on liquid morphine (and a host of other meds).
She is convinced there is something else going on that the doctor isn't seeing. They insist that there isn't...and that she should be much better other than fatigue and nausea from the chemo.
Her condition is not improving at all. She weighed 111 on my scale, 114 on her doctor's....fully dressed.
I can get food in her better than when she was at home or in the hospital....Rooster can amuse her....I can take care of all her other needs...but she is visibly failing...even on chemo.
mustangjeano
12-17-2011, 11:12 PM
Well the PICC didn't go, they sent the in-room group to handle it and they couldn't get to the vein . They did start her on a intravenous solution which has perked her up...Monday they will send her to the OR and cut the PICC in...
On a good note she has been declared cancer free! all Bi-ops came back clear from the surrounding tissue...
That "cancer free" sounds really great. Tell Clay how I am doing the happy dance and fist pumps to celebrate for her. Thanks Countyfemme for all you are doing. You are an angel !!!!
Rockinonahigh
12-17-2011, 11:51 PM
Well the PICC didn't go, they sent the in-room group to handle it and they couldn't get to the vein . They did start her on a intravenous solution which has perked her up...Monday they will send her to the OR and cut the PICC in...
On a good note she has been declared cancer free! all Bi-ops came back clear from the surrounding tissue...
Fantastic,glad to hear all is going well,it wiont be long till she can go home if it contenues like this.Haveing two surgerys done at once is tough but the flip side its done now the healing can begain.Thanks for the updates,do take care of u while u help Clay.
Dominique
12-18-2011, 07:15 AM
The last two days my mother has been getting dizzy when she stands up or walks far at all...evidently this is the dehydration problem returning. They cut her TPN back to 12 hours a day right before she came....so one week later, she's fading.
Jo, may I suggest frozen seedless grapes. Drinking isn't the only way to get hydration into the body. They may help with the dry throat that often
accompanies chemo. Also, grapes are low in acid and full of good things.
JustJo
12-18-2011, 07:31 AM
Jo, may I suggest frozen seedless grapes. Drinking isn't the only way to get hydration into the body. They may help with the dry throat that often
accompanies chemo. Also, grapes are low in acid and full of good things.
Thank you for this....we can't do frozen because of the issues she's having with cold things (even her water has to be room temperature), but seedless grapes in general might work.
We've been doing lots of chicken broth, tea with honey, and anything else we can get in her....I picked up a seedless watermelon at the farmers market yesterday and that seems to be working pretty well.
Countyfem
12-18-2011, 06:36 PM
Took two big steps forward today, got rid of the morphine and bowels are talking! May or may not need the PICC line now ( the in room crew used the ultrasound which didn't work the other day) doc will decide tomorrow.
Clay has kept the nursing staff in stitches today so you know she is feeling better and better.
I have kept her updated with all of your good wishes....:flowers:
ArkansasPiscesGrrl
12-18-2011, 07:56 PM
Please pass my well wishes along as well to Clay.
Rockinonahigh
12-18-2011, 11:06 PM
WooooHoooo my buddy is doing great,fantastic!Tell clay I been keeping her in my thoughts and prayers.Now she is getting up and around I wonder how long it will be before she starts chasring cute nurses.
Novelafemme
12-19-2011, 10:49 AM
YAY Clay!!! This is wonderful news! Does she need to have a proper poop before she can leave the hospital, County?
I got an email yesterday from my sister in NYC. She had her second chemo last Friday and already her blood work is showing a positive response to the drugs. The first chemo she had a mild allergic reaction to the rituxin (sp?) so this time the pushed it in super slow and she did great. Her weight is slowly stabilizing and she is no longer coughing!! I am so excited for her and I think she is starting to believe she might beat this thing!!! I made her a chemo blanket using her favorite colors and am popping it into the mail today. :)
GO CANCER FIGHTERS, GO!!
Jo, I was going to echo YB's frozen fruit recommendation, but since she can't do cold that won't work. I will keep her in my prayers.
chai~
12-19-2011, 03:29 PM
"cancer free" has such a MAGICAL ring to it, doesn't it!!!!!!
bless bless bless~~~
Vlasta
12-19-2011, 04:27 PM
Well the PICC didn't go, they sent the in-room group to handle it and they couldn't get to the vein . They did start her on a intravenous solution which has perked her up...Monday they will send her to the OR and cut the PICC in...
On a good note she has been declared cancer free! all Bi-ops came back clear from the surrounding tissue...
thanks for the updated , Cancer free sounds awesome , I was looking on website for Clay status, but could find it . Sending positive energy to your way .
Now that I know where to find it , please tell Clay he is in our minds and I hope he will be back soon . I put many PICC lines in and TPN is good for hys situations .
many hugs
Vlasta
Countyfem
12-20-2011, 12:20 PM
Great news she is well on the way to gettin' home! No PICC needed, things started rolling Sunday night , on oral liquids today tonight she goes to creamy soups..wheww what a ride. Im sooo happy for her.
Countyfem
12-20-2011, 12:23 PM
[QUOTE=CatalinaRose;488992]YAY Clay!!! This is wonderful news! Does she need to have a proper poop before she can leave the hospital, County?
Yep and that baby has been dropped
I got an email yesterday from my sister in NYC. She had her second chemo last Friday and already her blood work is showing a positive response to the drugs. The first chemo she had a mild allergic reaction to the rituxin (sp?) so this time the pushed it in super slow and she did great. Her weight is slowly stabilizing and she is no longer coughing!! I am so excited for her and I think she is starting to believe she might beat this thing!!! I made her a chemo blanket using her favorite colors and am popping it into the mail today. :)
GO CANCER FIGHTERS, GO!!
So glad your sister is responding in a most positive manner! Your both in my prayers! :goodluck:
julieisafemme
12-20-2011, 01:05 PM
Hi Everyone-
My Mom has just finished her first round of chemo for small cell lung cancer with liver and brain mets. She will having radiation today for the brain mets. She has had all of this done in the hospital as she was very weak prior to treatment. She is coming home tomorrow and I want to make sure I have all the supplies that might make this first week after chemo as comfortable as possible. Does anyone have some suggestions of must haves? Tips or tricks? So far the anti-nausea drugs have worked great for her and she has not had any nausea. Our main concern is bleeding because she is already on blood thinners. She is 73 and had COPD before all of this started so not in the best of health but not terrible either.
Thanks so much and many healing prayers to all of you who are fighting the good fight!
JustJo
12-20-2011, 01:17 PM
Hi Everyone-
My Mom has just finished her first round of chemo for small cell lung cancer with liver and brain mets. She will having radiation today for the brain mets. She has had all of this done in the hospital as she was very weak prior to treatment. She is coming home tomorrow and I want to make sure I have all the supplies that might make this first week after chemo as comfortable as possible. Does anyone have some suggestions of must haves? Tips or tricks? So far the anti-nausea drugs have worked great for her and she has not had any nausea. Our main concern is bleeding because she is already on blood thinners. She is 73 and had COPD before all of this started so not in the best of health but not terrible either.
Thanks so much and many healing prayers to all of you who are fighting the good fight!
Glad that your Mom is doing well and ready to come home. :)
For my mom, the biggest issue is nausea and lack of interest in food or drink...so the most important list is juice, tea with honey, and soup broth.
Next most important has been sleep, sleep, sleep. She gets very tired, very easily...and I have to monitor her activity because exhaustion can come on very suddenly for her.
I'm sure some folks here will have better suggestions for you...but I'm sending you big hugs.
DapperButch
12-20-2011, 07:04 PM
Hi Everyone-
My Mom has just finished her first round of chemo for small cell lung cancer with liver and brain mets. She will having radiation today for the brain mets. She has had all of this done in the hospital as she was very weak prior to treatment. She is coming home tomorrow and I want to make sure I have all the supplies that might make this first week after chemo as comfortable as possible. Does anyone have some suggestions of must haves? Tips or tricks? So far the anti-nausea drugs have worked great for her and she has not had any nausea. Our main concern is bleeding because she is already on blood thinners. She is 73 and had COPD before all of this started so not in the best of health but not terrible either.
Thanks so much and many healing prayers to all of you who are fighting the good fight!
Hi, julie!
I am glad you posted in the thread.
The side effects of chemo depends on the type of chemo one receives. I am sure that your mother's chemo is different than mine was (mine was for colon cancer).
I would suggest finding out the specific medications that is in her chemo cocktail and then search the web for information on side effects of that specific chemo. After you know that, or after she has some of the side effects, please bring them here. I don't want to ramble on about something that would not be useful to you!
As an aside to Jo's comment about her mother's fatigue...radiation actually causes more fatigue than chemo does, so expect your mom to be really pooped!
Novelafemme
12-20-2011, 08:56 PM
Hi Julie,
So sorry to read about your mom. From my experience, everyone has different cravings and needs during chemo. We stocked up on whatever tasted good and took it from there. Now days I can't even look at Gatorade 2 without gagging a little. ;)
County, yay for pooping!!! That's a victory for sure. :)
mustangjeano
12-20-2011, 11:10 PM
Hi Everyone-
My Mom has just finished her first round of chemo for small cell lung cancer with liver and brain mets. She will having radiation today for the brain mets. She has had all of this done in the hospital as she was very weak prior to treatment. She is coming home tomorrow and I want to make sure I have all the supplies that might make this first week after chemo as comfortable as possible. Does anyone have some suggestions of must haves? Tips or tricks? So far the anti-nausea drugs have worked great for her and she has not had any nausea. Our main concern is bleeding because she is already on blood thinners. She is 73 and had COPD before all of this started so not in the best of health but not terrible either.
Thanks so much and many healing prayers to all of you who are fighting the good fight!
Lots of water to flush the chemo and meds out. Anything yummy that she finds appealing to eat. Protien for strength.
mustangjeano
12-20-2011, 11:13 PM
Hi, julie!
I am glad you posted in the thread.
The side effects of chemo depends on the type of chemo one receives. I am sure that your mother's chemo is different than mine was (mine was for colon cancer).
I would suggest finding out the specific medications that is in her chemo cocktail and then search the web for information on side effects of that specific chemo. After you know that, or after she has some of the side effects, please bring them here. I don't want to ramble on about something that would not be useful to you!
As an aside to Jo's comment about her mother's fatigue...radiation actually causes more fatigue than chemo does, so expect your mom to be really pooped!
Hey Dapper, you are so right about the fatigue with radiation. I had it at 40 and again at 55 and it kicked my ass both times. Jean
Hey all you sexy, gorgeous peeps:
The Claymeister is officially SPRUNG!!!!! Waiting on paperwork..and me and county will be going home...to sleep for about 3 days!! She is exhausted......bless her heart!!!! I could have never made this journey so incredibly well or so quickly...without her...andf all of you....I heart you all. I am still very weak...Hgb. is 9.5....BUT home is best medicine...
I have lots of reading and thanks for all of you....please bear with me...I am GOING HOME!!! Yeayyyyyyy....Clay
1QuirkyKiwi
12-22-2011, 04:37 PM
Hey all you sexy, gorgeous peeps:
The Claymeister is officially SPRUNG!!!!! Waiting on paperwork..and me and county will be going home...to sleep for about 3 days!! She is exhausted......bless her heart!!!! I could have never made this journey so incredibly well or so quickly...without her...andf all of you....I heart you all. I am still very weak...Hgb. is 9.5....BUT home is best medicine...
I have lots of reading and thanks for all of you....please bear with me...I am GOING HOME!!! Yeayyyyyyy....Clay
Fantastic News! :) Glad you are doing well! Good to have you back with us! :)
DapperButch
12-22-2011, 04:54 PM
Hey all you sexy, gorgeous peeps:
The Claymeister is officially SPRUNG!!!!! Waiting on paperwork..and me and county will be going home...to sleep for about 3 days!! She is exhausted......bless her heart!!!! I could have never made this journey so incredibly well or so quickly...without her...andf all of you....I heart you all. I am still very weak...Hgb. is 9.5....BUT home is best medicine...
I have lots of reading and thanks for all of you....please bear with me...I am GOING HOME!!! Yeayyyyyyy....Clay
Finally! Woo Hoo! A long time coming, I know! Congrats on the cancer being contained. That means no chemo for you, right?
How much weight did you lose from not being able to eat? I lost 20lbs (granted, I got the surgery done twice, 2 weeks apart, but, still...)!
Midnight
12-22-2011, 05:54 PM
Hey all you sexy, gorgeous peeps:
The Claymeister is officially SPRUNG!!!!! Waiting on paperwork..and me and county will be going home...to sleep for about 3 days!! She is exhausted......bless her heart!!!! I could have never made this journey so incredibly well or so quickly...without her...andf all of you....I heart you all. I am still very weak...Hgb. is 9.5....BUT home is best medicine...
I have lots of reading and thanks for all of you....please bear with me...I am GOING HOME!!! Yeayyyyyyy....Clay
Welcome home Clay! Rest, relax and recover. It must be so nice to be back in your own bed :) I'm so glad Country was there for you. Country - thankyou so much for the fantastic updates on Clays progress through this difficult time for you both! :clap:
Rockinonahigh
12-22-2011, 11:02 PM
Hey all you sexy, gorgeous peeps:
The Claymeister is officially SPRUNG!!!!! Waiting on paperwork..and me and county will be going home...to sleep for about 3 days!! She is exhausted......bless her heart!!!! I could have never made this journey so incredibly well or so quickly...without her...andf all of you....I heart you all. I am still very weak...Hgb. is 9.5....BUT home is best medicine...
I have lots of reading and thanks for all of you....please bear with me...I am GOING HOME!!! Yeayyyyyyy....Clay
Fantastic,glad u r going home,tonight u will get the best sleep u have had iuna while in your own bed...nothing like being home.Take all the thime u need to get your strength back,we all will be hear when u want to post any thing.
Country,thank u for all u have done,u r indeed a special person..
hey peeps....just a quick note..I am up and about today...still weak, BUT al uphill from here on out..and Home Health will be here Monday to assess my needs, and PT will be coming as well...
I am still not real clear in the brain...BUT want to post so pardon all the typos...lol..
DAPPER: best I can tell between 35 and 45 lbs...in last 8 to 10 weeks....with MOST being last 3 to 4 weeks. I am getting some of the ensure drinks when we go to grocery store..
COUNTY: I heart you, darling!!! YOU have made this so much more pleasureable, been so selfless, and I know your back and hip suffered with that miserable "gaucho" sofa you endured for TWO WEEKS, and woke every time with a sweet smile...YOU simply ROCKKKKKKK....
I heart ALL of you.....Merry Christmas, I know I have the MOST amazing one in a few years now...thank, you....all your sweet messages, PM's, etc and calls...smiles.....later peeps...
I made COUNTY go get a nap in...I am waiting for my baby dachsie to come home..I haven;t seen her in 2 weeks....whooohooo....I HEART YOU ALL>>..Clay
Tommi
12-23-2011, 12:48 PM
Way to go claybaby.
Boost Plus and other Store Brand protein drinks available for variety until you can blend your own ~ CVS, Walgreens, etc.
Kudo's to County and Caregivers .
Jo, and julieisafemme thinking of you and your Mom's during this tough time and in a season of love and giving.
http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n55/tiggerracer/holidays/christmas/christmas%20cute/1744386rd5f1eb3b5.gif
JustJo
12-23-2011, 02:19 PM
Super fast update then I'm headed back to the ER....Mom's picc line was halfway out last night, so waiting and waiting to get it replaced today.
Struggling with pain meds....docs in FL don't prescribe but send to a separate pain management doc. Of course, they neglected to mention this (and mom neglects to mention that she's almost out) until we have difficulty getting a refill right before the holiday weekend.
Nightmare.
I'm kicking desks (figuratively speaking) and shouting at people (for real) ...and we have a short-term solution, an appointment with said pain mgmt specialist...and it'll all be okay...but it's taking a heck of a toll on me in the process.
My research, thanks to all this, also makes me think that a lot of her dizziness, fatigue and lack of appetite may be in part due to the morphine she's been on since the spring.
Midnight
12-23-2011, 04:49 PM
Super fast update then I'm headed back to the ER....Mom's picc line was halfway out last night, so waiting and waiting to get it replaced today.
Struggling with pain meds....docs in FL don't prescribe but send to a separate pain management doc. Of course, they neglected to mention this (and mom neglects to mention that she's almost out) until we have difficulty getting a refill right before the holiday weekend.
Nightmare.
I'm kicking desks (figuratively speaking) and shouting at people (for real) ...and we have a short-term solution, an appointment with said pain mgmt specialist...and it'll all be okay...but it's taking a heck of a toll on me in the process.
My research, thanks to all this, also makes me think that a lot of her dizziness, fatigue and lack of appetite may be in part due to the morphine she's been on since the spring.
Hi Jo
Thinking of you and your mum during this difficult time.
SweetJane
12-23-2011, 07:47 PM
So happy to hear that you are home and that Heidi will be with you soon! We've been praying and am so glad to hear you're doing well.
We have been so grateful to Countyfemme for her reports to us. Thanks you!!!
julieisafemme
12-23-2011, 10:26 PM
Hello All. Thank you very much for all the nice posts. My Mom is doing remarkably well. No nausea and no pain since going into the hospital. She saw the oncologist today and he said her blood work looks good, no temperature and her blood pressure is good. She has the ok to come for the family Christmas. That is a wonderful thing. She is still very tired but is getting up every day and doing things in the house. We are so blessed in that all four of her children live five minutes from her house. We have all skills to lend to her care. Add to that a good family friend who is a critical care nurse and her sister who is a nurse and we are set! I know she won't get better but it means so much that right now she is feeling good and not in pain.
Claybaby I am so happy you are home! I know my Mom is so much happier in her own bed without the nurses poking her all night!
Many blessings to you all and happy holidays.
Julie:
Thanks so much for the well wishes...and yes it IS good to be in my own space again....smiles...we are catching up on some much needed sleep...I,too, am still having some bouts with the nausea BUT I am also on a very strong antibiotic...for 4 more days...yayyyyy....and I just take a Zofran disintegrtaing nausea pill and hold the nausea at bay...smiles..
Big hugs to you, to your mom, and all your family..enjoy every moment...smiles..Merry Christmas from my family to yours....Clay
DapperButch
12-24-2011, 09:41 AM
hey peeps....just a quick note..I am up and about today...still weak, BUT al uphill from here on out..and Home Health will be here Monday to assess my needs, and PT will be coming as well...
I am still not real clear in the brain...BUT want to post so pardon all the typos...lol..
DAPPER: best I can tell between 35 and 45 lbs...in last 8 to 10 weeks....with MOST being last 3 to 4 weeks. I am getting some of the ensure drinks when we go to grocery store..
COUNTY: I heart you, darling!!! YOU have made this so much more pleasureable, been so selfless, and I know your back and hip suffered with that miserable "gaucho" sofa you endured for TWO WEEKS, and woke every time with a sweet smile...YOU simply ROCKKKKKKK....
I heart ALL of you.....Merry Christmas, I know I have the MOST amazing one in a few years now...thank, you....all your sweet messages, PM's, etc and calls...smiles.....later peeps...
I made COUNTY go get a nap in...I am waiting for my baby dachsie to come home..I haven;t seen her in 2 weeks....whooohooo....I HEART YOU ALL>>..Clay
The pecan flavored Ensure drinks are really good! Glad you are going to get the pup back soon!
You didn't answer me about the chemo?
Super fast update then I'm headed back to the ER....Mom's picc line was halfway out last night, so waiting and waiting to get it replaced today.
Struggling with pain meds....docs in FL don't prescribe but send to a separate pain management doc. Of course, they neglected to mention this (and mom neglects to mention that she's almost out) until we have difficulty getting a refill right before the holiday weekend.
Nightmare.
I'm kicking desks (figuratively speaking) and shouting at people (for real) ...and we have a short-term solution, an appointment with said pain mgmt specialist...and it'll all be okay...but it's taking a heck of a toll on me in the process.
My research, thanks to all this, also makes me think that a lot of her dizziness, fatigue and lack of appetite may be in part due to the morphine she's been on since the spring.
Gosh, Jo. I am so sorry this is happening. Please keep us updated.
You didn't answer me about the chemo?Hey DAPPER: I am so sorry....I did forget to asnwer you about the chemo ? NO...no chemo OR rad. for me..it was ALL gotten with surgery AND I am "officially CANCER FREE"...yayyyyyyy Hugs to you and TF from County & I...smiles
DapperButch
12-24-2011, 09:58 AM
You didn't answer me about the chemo?Hey DAPPER: I am so sorry....I did forget to asnwer you about the chemo ? NO...no chemo OR rad. for me..it was ALL gotten with surgery AND I am "officially CANCER FREE"...yayyyyyyy Hugs to you and TF from County & I...smiles
That's what I thought, but I wanted to hear it from the horse's mouth!
WOO HOO
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!![/SIZE]
JustJo
12-24-2011, 11:23 AM
Hi everyone,
We got the picc line replaced yesterday....so long tiring day but all resolved at the end. I also browbeat a prescription for Lortab out of her NY doctor...so she's not completely out of pain meds for the long weekend....and we'll be seeing the pain management specialist early in the week. I'm more and more convinced that we need to get her off the morphine....simply standing up makes her so dizzy that she has to put her head down and hold onto something for a minute or two.
Her weight is down a bit since the TPN is only 12 hours instead of 24 now....but she is eating a bit more. I figure I'm managing to get 800 to 1000 calories a day into her. Going off the morphine might help with her appetite and ability to eat.
Not what it should be...but an improvement. The Pedialyte also seems to be helping her somewhat...so we're keeping that up. I know I annoy her, handing her food or drink every 2 hours, but she would go all day with virtually nothing if it was left up to her. My pushy broad side is getting a workout.
Hugs to you all....glad to hear Clay and Julie's mom are home for the holiday and getting lots of support and care. Merry Christmas to you all! :rrose:
Hi everyone,
We got the picc line replaced yesterday....so long tiring day but all resolved at the end. I also browbeat a prescription for Lortab out of her NY doctor...so she's not completely out of pain meds for the long weekend....and we'll be seeing the pain management specialist early in the week. I'm more and more convinced that we need to get her off the morphine....simply standing up makes her so dizzy that she has to put her head down and hold onto something for a minute or two.
Her weight is down a bit since the TPN is only 12 hours instead of 24 now....but she is eating a bit more. I figure I'm managing to get 800 to 1000 calories a day into her. Going off the morphine might help with her appetite and ability to eat.
Not what it should be...but an improvement. The Pedialyte also seems to be helping her somewhat...so we're keeping that up. I know I annoy her, handing her food or drink every 2 hours, but she would go all day with virtually nothing if it was left up to her. My pushy broad side is getting a workout.
Hugs to you all....glad to hear Clay and Julie's mom are home for the holiday and getting lots of support and care. Merry Christmas to you all! :rrose:
hey JustJo...hugs right back at ya....you & mom are in our thoughts & prayers...do you have a Hospice Center there? Those RN's are awesome and the oncologists have a "protocol" or "regimen" of drugs and having Hospice involved insures your getting, having, and with access 24/7 to ANY med she may need. She needs to have an rx for Zofran (generic is: ondansetron) 4 mg. disintegrating tablets...to use every 4 hrs.....as needed....for the nausea...AND sounds like she would be an ideal candidate for Oxycontin...and it comes in liquid...the Morphine is horrible. I initially had a pump of Dilaudid IV for pain and an epidual with pain cotrol meds in it....and had to switch to MS (morphine) which I HATED to take..I only pushed my "button" for that med a total of 20 times in the whole 12 days I had it...smiles....(HIGH tolerance) to pain..smiles...
Anyway I am certainly not trying to prescribe or "manage" BUT offer you some suggestions..smiles....I am a nurse....smiles....
Take care..and YOU are doing an awesome job....give yourself a pat on the back...Clay
Tommi
12-24-2011, 12:13 PM
http://www.saidaonline.com/en/newsgfx/santa%20claus%20flying-saidaonline.jpg
Wishing you the imagination of a child, the wishes of yesteryear, and the magic of the season for tonight and always.
Tommi
Having been split straight down the middle of my belly from tip of sternum to edge of pubic area....and still with 38 staples in place....
makes it VERY difficult for one to "bend and dress oneself"...so upon accepting generous offers from one countyfem to don my boxers for me...
ALAS! I awoke in the middle of the night....and couldn't find the "fly opening" in front....so as I stood and pulled them down...I discovered the fly was in back...sooo....guess ya had to be there to appreciate it..but I know the butches will rotfltao.....I know I did....will I let her doff/don them for me again...YOU BETCHA! She was the prettiest shades of crimson and amethyst I have ever seen when I showed her what she had done...so I am enrolling her in the class on "how to dress a boi" next semester...lmao...I heart you baby!!! you know I do!
JustJo
12-24-2011, 12:30 PM
hey JustJo...hugs right back at ya....you & mom are in our thoughts & prayers...do you have a Hospice Center there? Those RN's are awesome and the oncologists have a "protocol" or "regimen" of drugs and having Hospice involved insures your getting, having, and with access 24/7 to ANY med she may need. She needs to have an rx for Zofran (generic is: ondansetron) 4 mg. disintegrating tablets...to use every 4 hrs.....as needed....for the nausea...AND sounds like she would be an ideal candidate for Oxycontin...and it comes in liquid...the Morphine is horrible. I initially had a pump of Dilaudid IV for pain and an epidual with pain cotrol meds in it....and had to switch to MS (morphine) which I HATED to take..I only pushed my "button" for that med a total of 20 times in the whole 12 days I had it...smiles....(HIGH tolerance) to pain..smiles...
Anyway I am certainly not trying to prescribe or "manage" BUT offer you some suggestions..smiles....I am a nurse....smiles....
Take care..and YOU are doing an awesome job....give yourself a pat on the back...Clay
Thank Clay. :) She is on the Zofran, which helps a little but not completely.
Hospice can't/won't do anything until she rejects all chemo treatment...and she's not quite ready to do that yet.
Her current/new oncologist down here is proposing modifying her chemo to something that will be less hard on her and only every 3 weeks (since she can't be cured anyway)....and she wants to see if that helps her quality of life.
Right now we're just one step at a time...but it's an uphill battle.
DapperButch
12-25-2011, 04:33 PM
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all survivors, caregivers, supporters, and those fighting and recovering from cancer!
May we all have a healthy New Year! :rrose:
Novelafemme
12-27-2011, 04:35 PM
I'm so happy to log on and see that most everyone is doing so well! {{{Jo}}} My thoughts are with you and your mom. I would only hope that were I in her shoes things would be made as painless and restful as possible. How are YOU holding up?
I spoke with my sister today and she is doing amazingly well. Her doctor even made a comment this morning that he hasn't seen anyone respond to the chemo protocol she is currently on quite so well as Lisa has. She is two lbs. shy of her normal weight and is feeling wonderful. I was originally going to fly out there with the girls in February but cancelled that trip since it was rapidly getting crazy expensive. Then last week I found a round trip ticket to/from Tucson to LaGuardia for $197!!! So, I fly out on the 24th and will surprise her by showing up to her fourth chemo treatment. :) I am terrible with secrets so it's gonna be hell keeping it to myself!!
I am going in for a second opinion on the polyps I recently had removed. Grrrr. And ONLY because I am being forced to! I guess it's better to be safe than sorry, but I am so over being poked and prodded!
CLAY!!! So happy to hear you are doing well. I owe you a phone call one of these days. :)
JustJo
12-28-2011, 08:55 AM
Hello everyone,
Just a quick Mom update....she's actually doing a bit better. We got her off the morphine and on lortabs (think that's right) and it seems to have helped. The fatigue and dizziness is diminishing and her appetite is much improved. We mix her drinks with half Pedialyte, and the dehydration is also much improved as a result.
She still gets (and needs) 12 hours of TPN each night, but we're managing to get about 1,000 - 1,200 calories of real food into her every day, and of a wide variety of things. The nausea is 90% gone....and she's very very slowly beginning to gain a little weight.
She still could not live alone at this point (and probably never again), but she is far more comfortable than she was....which makes us both feel better.
She actually got up this morning, made herself some hot chocolate, and was enjoying it out on the patio. :)
Countyfem
12-28-2011, 09:09 AM
Hello everyone,
Just a quick Mom update....she's actually doing a bit better. We got her off the morphine and on lortabs (think that's right) and it seems to have helped. The fatigue and dizziness is diminishing and her appetite is much improved. We mix her drinks with half Pedialyte, and the dehydration is also much improved as a result.
She still gets (and needs) 12 hours of TPN each night, but we're managing to get about 1,000 - 1,200 calories of real food into her every day, and of a wide variety of things. The nausea is 90% gone....and she's very very slowly beginning to gain a little weight.
She still could not live alone at this point (and probably never again), but she is far more comfortable than she was....which makes us both feel better.
She actually got up this morning, made herself some hot chocolate, and was enjoying it out on the patio. :)
That's great news Jo, I hope you both can enjoy this time together.
JustJo
12-30-2011, 07:08 AM
Good morning all :)
Sharing some good news....after over a year of having no interest in food and being unable to eat, Mom has turned a big corner. She actually woke up hungry in the middle of the night last night...enough to get up and get a snack. She woke up hungry again this morning....and was making herself peanut butter toast and orange juice while I was still pouring my first cup of coffee.
She's slowing gaining weight....and she's eating a huge variety of food frequently through the day.
Pretty amazing stuff.
When I look at her now, as compared to when she arrived only about 3 weeks ago, her color is better...she is stronger...the dizziness is gone...she's eating all kinds of things throughout the day rather than 1 or maybe 2 cartons of yogurt only....and her dehydration problem is completely resolved (thank goodness for Pedialyte....that stuff is a miracle).
Her mood has improved dramatically as a result, now that she is feeling more like herself....and she's talking about how she could do this with chemo every 3 weeks for quite some time....rather than planning and waiting for her death.
She knows that the cancer isn't going to get cured....and we're only buying time....but now she's ready to buy it, and enjoy it....and that's good. :)
Countyfem
12-30-2011, 09:56 AM
That is terrific news! Take this most precious time and enjoy! (((jo and mom)))
To EVERYONE here....may each and every one of you be blessed in the New Year. May we all have love abundantly..in so many forms, be gentler with one another, kinder to strangers, and more loving of ourselves..we are ALL BRAVE WARRIORS...whether we march to the Cancer Dance or are a supporter...EVERYONE is VITAL! Just here on the Planet alone...we have seen so many wonderful, incredible miracles happen. I know my own Cancer was MY BLESSING...it brought some incredible people into my life...it opened my eyes...mad em gentler to others....mor eloving of myself...and being there for others...I NEVER once saw my diagnosis as a "death sentence"...for we truly have nothing to fear..except fear itself..and I have seen each and every one of you..face some terrifying diagnoses, scares, challenges, and wheteher a marcher or a drummer...YOU ALL handled it with style, class, grace, and poise, and opened yourselves up to the rest of us...some mighty fine, BRAVE WARRIORS reside in this thread...and I heart you all..YOU are all so fucking BRAVE!!! The battles we faced, fought, and won..and are winning are much worse than any battlefield abroad...these battles occured right in our very souls...BUT we marched on...every time we faltered..someone else was here to guide us, encourage us, and lend a hand up..NO ONE IS LEFT BEHIND here....so...I wish us all health, love, and peace within..we have climbed those mountains now...let's enjoy the friendships and heartships we have made here...I LOVE YOU ALL>>each and every one...whether you are a fighter or a supporter..YOU all fucking rockkkk!!!! xoxoxooxo.....Clay
Big Butch hugs to ALL of you....
DapperButch
12-30-2011, 04:53 PM
Good morning all :)
Sharing some good news....after over a year of having no interest in food and being unable to eat, Mom has turned a big corner. She actually woke up hungry in the middle of the night last night...enough to get up and get a snack. She woke up hungry again this morning....and was making herself peanut butter toast and orange juice while I was still pouring my first cup of coffee.
She's slowing gaining weight....and she's eating a huge variety of food frequently through the day.
Pretty amazing stuff.
When I look at her now, as compared to when she arrived only about 3 weeks ago, her color is better...she is stronger...the dizziness is gone...she's eating all kinds of things throughout the day rather than 1 or maybe 2 cartons of yogurt only....and her dehydration problem is completely resolved (thank goodness for Pedialyte....that stuff is a miracle).
Her mood has improved dramatically as a result, now that she is feeling more like herself....and she's talking about how she could do this with chemo every 3 weeks for quite some time....rather than planning and waiting for her death.
She knows that the cancer isn't going to get cured....and we're only buying time....but now she's ready to buy it, and enjoy it....and that's good. :)
Jo, that is fantastic! I am truly grinning ear to ear! :D:thumbsup::clap::pile:
julieisafemme
12-30-2011, 05:54 PM
Ok more good news! My Mom saw the oncologist and she is doing really well. All her blood tests look great. She told her to go out and enjoy herself. She went to the grocery store and the book store and was so happy to be out. She is still weak and tired but feeling good and no pain! Her appetite is great and she is gaining weight. January 10 is her next round of chemo.
It is amazing to me how well she has done with the chemo. She was against it because of what she saw my Grandma go through. That was over 30 years ago. Things have gotten better with cancer treatment. She was in a lot pain before and not eating and now she has no pain and is eating great.
Tomorrow night we will have a little party at her house for the new year.
I am so happy and feel so blessed.
Jo I am happy your Mom is doing so well! Maybe it was the morphine that made her feel so bad?
Happy New Year to you all! Clay I am inspired by your posts and your positive attitude. This thread has made things a little easier.
julieisafemme...that is awesome...wtg Mom!!!! BIG hugs to you both...just let he rlive her life...how she may choose...and enjoy what she wants...it will all be great for her....thanks for the wonderful post..
Happy New Year to your family also!
Keep on a rockin', mom? Does she want a "date" for NYE? smiles....
Hang in there kid....
((((((((((((((Jo & Mom))))))))))))))) great news as well...may you two be blessed and have a wonderful New Year....hugs..
I heart you all..Clay
mustangjeano
12-30-2011, 10:26 PM
Jo and Juie, Thanks for sharing the good news about your Moms. I feel such joy at reading your posts.
Jean
DapperButch
12-31-2011, 05:50 PM
How is the recovery going?
How is the recovery going?
hey DB....I am doing GREAT! County will be leaving me the 14th to go back home...she has done an AMAZING job!!! I wouldn't have progressed so far, so fast without her!!!We see the Gastro Oncol the 3rd to get staples out, and see the Gynie Oncol the 6th....these will be my first Office visits since discharged from hosp on the 22nd Dec...
Thanks so very much for checking in on me...for all your kind words, wishes, support, and encouragement...I heart you, my friend,....Happy New Year to you & the lovelt TF!!! Clay & County
Tommi
01-01-2012, 01:56 AM
http://i1110.photobucket.com/albums/h451/shymartinez1/HAPPY%20NEW%20YEAR/happy-new-year-0982.gif
Wishing y'all a great year.
DapperButch
01-01-2012, 09:35 AM
hey DB....I am doing GREAT! County will be leaving me the 14th to go back home...she has done an AMAZING job!!! I wouldn't have progressed so far, so fast without her!!!We see the Gastro Oncol the 3rd to get staples out, and see the Gynie Oncol the 6th....these will be my first Office visits since discharged from hosp on the 22nd Dec...
Thanks so very much for checking in on me...for all your kind words, wishes, support, and encouragement...I heart you, my friend,....Happy New Year to you & the lovelt TF!!! Clay & County
Glad to hear things are going well! Are you up and about? Off all pain meds, or where are things with that?
JustJo
01-01-2012, 09:41 AM
Happy 2012 all :)
So the last week has been a pretty startling change...with mom doing better and feeling stronger every day.
She is now hungry virtually all the time...snacking and drinking constantly...and is gaining a rather amazing half a pound a day.
Hope you all have a wonderful year....and thank you all for the amazing support you've given me through this rough time.
Hugs to you all.
Happy 2012 all :)
So the last week has been a pretty startling change...with mom doing better and feeling stronger every day.
She is now hungry virtually all the time...snacking and drinking constantly...and is gaining a rather amazing half a pound a day.
Hope you all have a wonderful year....and thank you all for the amazing support you've given me through this rough time.
Hugs to you all.
((((((((((((((((((((((((((Jo & Mom)))))))))))))))))))
all the lil flower needed was some tending, care, nurturing, and being LOVED! Watch it grow and flourish...she is where she needs to be now...and so are you...smiles....you rock, girl! xoxoxoxo...Clay
my BRAVE Warriors...one and all....yes we are! I would go to "battle" with any of you...any day...keep up that spirit...we all came out as a TEAM! Yay US! Happy New Year...Clay
[COLOR="Blue"]((((((((((Jo & Julies & Moms))))))))))))))
Just stopping by to say hi and wish all of a wonderful week with lots of positive things happening and each mom will continue to thrive and flourish with their daughter's love...[
SIDE NOTE: I see my gastro oncologist, who did mny colon resection today to get my staples out...I will be soooo glad...these are starting to "itch" where the incision is healing.....:(....
I see the gynecological oncologist who did my hystero on Friday...and hope I get a good report also.
I feel really good, strength and stamina improve daily. Showers still wear me out...make me have to just sit and rest a bit afterwards...but all in all, I am making excellent progress!...:).
Have an awesome day everyone...continue to fight the good fight, MOMS!!! I heart you all...xoxo...Clay/COLOR]
DapperButch
01-03-2012, 04:53 PM
[COLOR="Blue"]((((((((((Jo & Julies & Moms))))))))))))))
Just stopping by to say hi and wish all of a wonderful week with lots of positive things happening and each mom will continue to thrive and flourish with their daughter's love...[
SIDE NOTE: I see my gastro oncologist, who did mny colon resection today to get my staples out...I will be soooo glad...these are starting to "itch" where the incision is healing.....:(....
I see the gynecological oncologist who did my hystero on Friday...and hope I get a good report also.
I feel really good, strength and stamina improve daily. Showers still wear me out...make me have to just sit and rest a bit afterwards...but all in all, I am making excellent progress!...:).
Have an awesome day everyone...continue to fight the good fight, MOMS!!! I heart you all...xoxo...Clay/COLOR]
Glad to hear you are doing so well, Clay. I wonder how they decide who they will stitch and who they will staple? Doctor's preference, maybe? I was stitiched.
+1 on the thoughts for Julie's and Jo's moms.
Saw the surgical oncologist yesterday...got staples removed...have almost as many (38) steri strips now...lol..incision looks good. I see him again in a month!
I am having (still) a pain deep in my right lower side....it is uncomfortable..and when I sit, sometimes it feels akin to something swollen, or inflamed in that area. I found out yesterday, they did indeed remove my appendix...soooo...maybe inflamed there OR from the deep digging gynie had to do to find ovary and fallopian on the right side??? Anyway, I was in bed, and asleep by 930pm last night..wore my butt out yesterday....lol...we have a two hr trip, one way, to go there...and have to go back Friday to see the gynie...
Anyway, I lost 37 lbs. throughout the whole ordeal...sooo....that is a good thing, right??? smiles...
Still being upbeat & positive and I will conquer this "pain" also. I will myself to heal, inside outward...and swim with the dolphins when the pain worsens...it is ALL good....
I heart you all....hugs to Jo & Julies and the MOMS!
DAPPER: it is usually the individual surgeon's choice....OR if a patient requests it..I would have preferred the sutures....just for a number of reasons...BUT staples is okay.....lol...
hugs n kisses to all...Clay
DapperButch
01-04-2012, 04:52 PM
Saw the surgical oncologist yesterday...got staples removed...have almost as many (38) steri strips now...lol..incision looks good. I see him again in a month!
I am having (still) a pain deep in my right lower side....it is uncomfortable..and when I sit, sometimes it feels akin to something swollen, or inflamed in that area. I found out yesterday, they did indeed remove my appendix...soooo...maybe inflamed there OR from the deep digging gynie had to do to find ovary and fallopian on the right side??? Anyway, I was in bed, and asleep by 930pm last night..wore my butt out yesterday....lol...we have a two hr trip, one way, to go there...and have to go back Friday to see the gynie...
Anyway, I lost 37 lbs. throughout the whole ordeal...sooo....that is a good thing, right??? smiles...
Still being upbeat & positive and I will conquer this "pain" also. I will myself to heal, inside outward...and swim with the dolphins when the pain worsens...it is ALL good....
I heart you all....hugs to Jo & Julies and the MOMS!
DAPPER: it is usually the individual surgeon's choice....OR if a patient requests it..I would have preferred the sutures....just for a number of reasons...BUT staples is okay.....lol...
hugs n kisses to all...Clay
Hey, Clay.
Yeah, they took my appendix, too. He said it as a By the way, while we were in there we figured we might as well take your appendix out.
I wasn't sure how to feel about that. I felt almost violated or something. I mean, I understand the appendix has been found to have no real use, but if it is a standard procedure type of thing, while not mention it before the surgery? I thought it was kind of strange.
Did you ask the doc about the pain?
Hey, Clay.
Yeah, they took my appendix, too. He said it as a By the way, while we were in there we figured we might as well take your appendix out.
I wasn't sure how to feel about that. I felt almost violated or something. I mean, I understand the appendix has been found to have no real use, but if it is a standard procedure type of thing, while not mention it before the surgery? I thought it was kind of strange.
Did you ask the doc about the pain?
hey DAPPER:
I had asked them to please repair a hernia from my gallbladder surg from March 2010 (I have a 12 inch scar from that...since he was going to be right in the area...to possibly save me a further surgery at some point..and he said NO. I asked the gynie if she would remove the appendix while she was there...she said she would BUT according to the operative report/path report I got yesterday, HE did remove my appendix. I wasn't aware of it while in hosp and they did not tell county they took them when each surgeon came out and spoke to her post op.
As for the pain, it has beent here since post op..and I mentioned it to both surgeons every day...I get anything from "it's where they had to dig deep to get ovary & fallopian tube, to it's where they stitched you up inside after surgery to "it's a pulled muscle"...anyway, when I told Dr. Camp yesterday, he said to call him ASAP if I develop and nausea/vomiting, chills, or fever OR if pain worsens....sooo.....
I am going to ask the gynie oncol Fri to do an US of the area....it is like a burning, searing, stabbing kind of pain that is almost constant, and at times feels like the area is "swollen"...
Anyway I am afebrile (without fever) and NO n/v/c/f....and it is no worse..it actually "eased up" some today...feels best when I am lying wiht legs outstretched and NOT sitting....
I am sure it is all within normal for this type of surgery and will abate eventually....smiles...
Thanks for the words and your support my friend..and that tip about me lying on left side to get the bowels going post op...county remembered it, and made sure I did it..smiles...
Have an awesome day my friend...hugs..Clay
DapperButch
01-04-2012, 05:17 PM
hey DAPPER:
I had asked them to please repair a hernia from my gallbladder surg from March 2010 (I have a 12 inch scar from that...since he was going to be right in the area...to possibly save me a further surgery at some point..and he said NO. I asked the gynie if she would remove the appendix while she was there...she said she would BUT according to the operative report/path report I got yesterday, HE did remove my appendix. I wasn't aware of it while in hosp and they did not tell county they took them when each surgeon came out and spoke to her post op.
As for the pain, it has beent here since post op..and I mentioned it to both surgeons every day...I get anything from "it's where they had to dig deep to get ovary & fallopian tube, to it's where they stitched you up inside after surgery to "it's a pulled muscle"...anyway, when I told Dr. Camp yesterday, he said to call him ASAP if I develop and nausea/vomiting, chills, or fever OR if pain worsens....sooo.....
I am going to ask the gynie oncol Fri to do an US of the area....it is like a burning, searing, stabbing kind of pain that is almost constant, and at times feels like the area is "swollen"...
Anyway I am afebrile (without fever) and NO n/v/c/f....and it is no worse..it actually "eased up" some today...feels best when I am lying wiht legs outstretched and NOT sitting....
I am sure it is all within normal for this type of surgery and will abate eventually....smiles...
Thanks for the words and your support my friend..and that tip about me lying on left side to get the bowels going post op...county remembered it, and made sure I did it..smiles...
Have an awesome day my friend...hugs..Clay
Got it. Ok, hang in there. Keep on keeping on. One day at a time.
julieisafemme
01-04-2012, 08:50 PM
Hello Everyone! My Mom, like Jo's, is an eating machine. She saw the nurse practitioner today and all her tests look great. She has lost all her hair and she is pretty bummed about that. We got her a bunch of hats and she is playing with her scarves so she will be stylish as usual.
Next week she starts the second round of chemotherapy. I am taking next Friday off to clean and help out. She was happy to hear that.
So happy to hear everyone is feeling so well. Here is to a healthy 2012! Thank you very much for all the prayers and well wishes.
mustangjeano
01-04-2012, 10:54 PM
Hello Everyone! My Mom, like Jo's, is an eating machine. She saw the nurse practitioner today and all her tests look great. She has lost all her hair and she is pretty bummed about that. We got her a bunch of hats and she is playing with her scarves so she will be stylish as usual.
Next week she starts the second round of chemotherapy. I am taking next Friday off to clean and help out. She was happy to hear that.
So happy to hear everyone is feeling so well. Here is to a healthy 2012! Thank you very much for all the prayers and well wishes.
Julie, you and your Mom are in my thoughts and prayers. Great to hear she is doing so well. Jean
Novelafemme
01-04-2012, 11:10 PM
Clay, Julie, Jo...all of this wonderful news is inspiring and, like Jean, I am so happy to hear how well everyone is responding to their current situations. Let's keep it up!! XOXO, Novela <3
deb_U_taunt
01-05-2012, 10:46 AM
Wow I had some reading to catch up on.
Jo and Julie - so glad to hear your mom's are doing so well! :) They are blessed to have you. :bunchflowers:
So glad to hear everyone is doing so great.
So far 2012 has sucked. My grandma lost her battle with lung cancer Jan 1. I went to the Dr on Tuesday. He sent me Wednesday for a endoscopy and colonoscopy. He was worried about some issues I am having and stomach cancer. The Dr took a biopsy from my esophagus and removed 3 polyps and now the 7-10 day wait begins. On a good note: I have lost 16 pds since Thanksgiving. :)
((((((((((((((((((debby)))))))))))))))))))))
Our condolences on losing Nana......:(.
We hold you in all of our hearts and prayers...and keep us posted...this too shall pass..and your test results will be good....hugs my friend....Clay
Countyfem
01-05-2012, 11:45 AM
Julie, so happy to hear your mom is feeling better, enjoy.
Deb, gotcha in my prayers kid. Hit me up if you need to talk...
DapperButch
01-05-2012, 06:57 PM
Wow I had some reading to catch up on.
Jo and Julie - so glad to hear your mom's are doing so well! :) They are blessed to have you. :bunchflowers:
So glad to hear everyone is doing so great.
So far 2012 has sucked. My grandma lost her battle with lung cancer Jan 1. I went to the Dr on Tuesday. He sent me Wednesday for a endoscopy and colonoscopy. He was worried about some issues I am having and stomach cancer. The Dr took a biopsy from my esophagus and removed 3 polyps and now the 7-10 day wait begins. On a good note: I have lost 16 pds since Thanksgiving. :)
I'm sorry you lost your grandmother and some other scary stuff is happening. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Congratulations on the weight loss. I personally gained weight after my treatment stopped (I needed to gain after surgery, but not after my 6 months of chemo). I think I had gotten so used to eating high caloric food, as it only every other week that I did have mouth sores, that when I could eat again, this time I just didn't stop!
The 25 lbs I lost due to surgery was too much, but it would have been nice to have not gained all of it back. The last 10 came back on after chemo (which is the amount I would like to not have put back on).
mustangjeano
01-05-2012, 08:55 PM
Wow I had some reading to catch up on.
Jo and Julie - so glad to hear your mom's are doing so well! :) They are blessed to have you. :bunchflowers:
So glad to hear everyone is doing so great.
So far 2012 has sucked. My grandma lost her battle with lung cancer Jan 1. I went to the Dr on Tuesday. He sent me Wednesday for a endoscopy and colonoscopy. He was worried about some issues I am having and stomach cancer. The Dr took a biopsy from my esophagus and removed 3 polyps and now the 7-10 day wait begins. On a good note: I have lost 16 pds since Thanksgiving. :)
Debby, Keeping you in my bestest thoughts and prayers--I know how agonizing it is to wait for results. Jean
deb_U_taunt
01-06-2012, 08:08 AM
I wouldn't be so nervous about the results, even with him saying all 3 are precancerous, if he hadn't tagged one site and after everything else that has happened in the last year.
Tommi
01-06-2012, 11:00 AM
I wouldn't be so nervous about the results, even with him saying all 3 are precancerous, if he hadn't tagged one site and after everything else that has happened in the last year.
Here's to the good stuff and out with the yucky stuff..Big hugs sent your way Debby...
http://lowbagger.org/treehuggers.jpg
from another tree hugger, Tommi
starryeyes
01-06-2012, 12:05 PM
My grandma has stage 4 colon cancer. She didn't know about it until the tumor "erupted" and she had emergency surgery and most of her colon was removed. The cancer has also spread to her abdomen and liver. They suspect brain also. She has a pet(?) scan this week. U saw her over Christmas and she looks good. Way better than before her surgery. She was not responding to Chemo, so she just started a new anti body treatment. It is extremely expensive, and she is on a very fixed income and Medicare. Not sure how many more treatments it will cover.
It's been a seriously hard journey with my grandma. She is an alcoholic, so we were dealing with that before this. She tried to commit suicide.... Now this. I want to be there for her and support her but I am so scared I tend to just look away. It feels horrible saying that. I am tying to be stronger and be there for her. I told myself I was going to call her once a week... I'm going to try to stick to that.
Grieving sucks :-(
Novelafemme
01-06-2012, 12:11 PM
{{{{{Debby}}}}}} Big hugs for you. Isn't tagging normal protocol? They did that with all of my precancerous polyps as well. But, you sure have had a full year, so I understand the fear. My mom will keep your nana company in heaven. (f) Hang in there, love!
deb_U_taunt
01-06-2012, 04:22 PM
Hugs to you starryeyes.
Please, call her and you don't need to talk about her cancer. I called my grandma everyday and most of the time we didn't talk about either of us having cancer.
My grandma has stage 4 colon cancer. She didn't know about it until the tumor "erupted" and she had emergency surgery and most of her colon was removed. The cancer has also spread to her abdomen and liver. They suspect brain also. She has a pet(?) scan this week. U saw her over Christmas and she looks good. Way better than before her surgery. She was not responding to Chemo, so she just started a new anti body treatment. It is extremely expensive, and she is on a very fixed income and Medicare. Not sure how many more treatments it will cover.
It's been a seriously hard journey with my grandma. She is an alcoholic, so we were dealing with that before this. She tried to commit suicide.... Now this. I want to be there for her and support her but I am so scared I tend to just look away. It feels horrible saying that. I am tying to be stronger and be there for her. I told myself I was going to call her once a week... I'm going to try to stick to that.
Grieving sucks :-(
deb_U_taunt
01-06-2012, 04:27 PM
I don't know if it is. lol They only tagged the one and the Dr said it was so a surgeon could find it, if needed. I am just a bundle of nerves anymore. I do feel better about it now, then I did this morning.
Let your mom know, my nana will be the little old lady cracking the whip in the corner with everyone's to-do lists.
{{{{{Debby}}}}}} Big hugs for you. Isn't tagging normal protocol? They did that with all of my precancerous polyps as well. But, you sure have had a full year, so I understand the fear. My mom will keep your nana company in heaven. (f) Hang in there, love!
deb_U_taunt
01-06-2012, 04:30 PM
Love the tree huggers lol :)
thank you...its gonna get better here on out!
Here's to the good stuff and out with the yucky stuff..Big hugs sent your way Debby...
http://lowbagger.org/treehuggers.jpg
from another tree hugger, Tommi
I don't know if it is. lol They only tagged the one and the Dr said it was so a surgeon could find it, if needed. I am just a bundle of nerves anymore. I do feel better about it now, then I did this morning.
Let your mom know, my nana will be the little old lady cracking the whip in the corner with everyone's to-do lists.
((((((Debby)))))))))...it is all good, honey! Tagging is usually done as an identification marker....so when a CT is done, they have something to identify where to start looking. My gastro "tattooed" my tumor in front of and behind, and put a metal clip in it..so the CT would show it, help identify exact place it (tumor) was and to see the parameters of the tumor. When the surgeon went in, he was able to see the blue tattoo ink marks in front of and behind, so he knew where to cut and anastomose ends back...as a wise and sagely friend told me.."don't worry about what ain't spilled" yet...so....sexy...smile....be happy...YOU have climbed, conquered, and made a stone pile out of that last mountain.....you CAN do it again!! Big hugs my friend...Clay
DapperButch
01-06-2012, 09:17 PM
Ok, so am I to assume that my tumor wasn't marked in any way b/c it was so big no one could miss it? :|
Seriously, though, it was. It was very visible to a layperson (me, partner, mother) when the surgeon pulled up the film on the computer.
deb_U_taunt
01-07-2012, 10:13 AM
It was the initial shock of hearing the damn 'C' word. The dr removed all three, so the marker was to find where he removed it.
This made me crazier:
http://thinkprogress.org/health/2012/01/06/399357/santorum-to-mother-of-cancer-survivor-sick-are-to-blame-for-their-pre-existing-conditions-insurers-should-charge-them-more/?mobile=nc
Ok, so am I to assume that my tumor wasn't marked in any way b/c it was so big no one could miss it? :|
Seriously, though, it was. It was very visible to a layperson (me, partner, mother) when the surgeon pulled up the film on the computer.
DapperButch
01-08-2012, 11:48 AM
It was the initial shock of hearing the damn 'C' word. The dr removed all three, so the marker was to find where he removed it.
Ahhh. I see, thanks for explaining.
This made me crazier:
http://thinkprogress.org/health/2012/01/06/399357/santorum-to-mother-of-cancer-survivor-sick-are-to-blame-for-their-pre-existing-conditions-insurers-should-charge-them-more/?mobile=nc
Scary stuff. :mad:
------------
DapperButch
01-08-2012, 03:28 PM
I just wanted to share with you guys that tantalizingfemme and I got some wonderful new yesterday.
Her son made it into the college of his choice! We are especially thrilled for him because we were not certain he would get in, so it is especially sweet.
He wasn't Mr. Studious so we (and he) are really thanking his lucky stars!!!!!
:happyjump::pile:
Tommi
01-08-2012, 05:37 PM
I just wanted to share with you guys that tantalizingfemme and I got some wonderful new yesterday.
Her son made it into the college of his choice! We are especially thrilled for him because we were not certain he would get in, so it is especially sweet.
He wasn't Mr. Studious so we (and he) are really thanking his lucky stars!!!!!
:happyjump::pile:
:goodluck::goodluck::goodluck::goodluck::goodluck: :readfineprint::glasses:
Yeahh..
JustJo
01-09-2012, 06:17 PM
What a difference a month makes....
A month ago my mother arrived....about 105 lbs., shaky, barely walking, pale as death, dehydrated, unable to tolerate cold, exhausted, able to eat 1 or maybe 2 cartons of yogurt and nothing else in a day, taking morphine 4 or 5 times a day, and essentially waiting to die.
Today...she weighs 117, is not at all dehydrated, her color is good, goes for a walk every day with my son, walked 3500 steps with me on the beach on Sunday, eats normal meals (and then some), and is antsy to go home and dig in her garden. She is off morphine, and takes a single Lortab a day for pain...before bed, so her sleep is not disturbed.
Today was an eye opener....her menu....
Breakfast....two slices toast with butter and peanut butter, cup of tea
Mid-morning snack...carton of yogurt, juice with pedialyte
Lunch....salad bar at Ruby Tuesday's, iced tea
Mid-afternoon snack...can of Campbell's brand canned spaghetti, juice with pedialyte
Late-afternoon snack...Dove ice cream bar
Dinner...Chicken leg (big one, from a roasting hen), corn, broccoli, and juice with pedialyte
Evening snack....who knows....but there has been one every night lately
Overnight....12 hours of TPN
Is it any wonder she's gaining half a pound a day?
Tommi
01-10-2012, 01:58 AM
What a difference a month makes....
A month ago my mother arrived....about 105 lbs., shaky, barely walking, pale as death, dehydrated, unable to tolerate cold, exhausted, able to eat 1 or maybe 2 cartons of yogurt and nothing else in a day, taking morphine 4 or 5 times a day, and essentially waiting to die.
Today...she weighs 117, is not at all dehydrated, her color is good, goes for a walk every day with my son, walked 3500 steps with me on the beach on Sunday, eats normal meals (and then some), and is antsy to go home and dig in her garden. She is off morphine, and takes a single Lortab a day for pain...before bed, so her sleep is not disturbed.
Today was an eye opener....her menu....
Breakfast....two slices toast with butter and peanut butter, cup of tea
Mid-morning snack...carton of yogurt, juice with pedialyte
Lunch....salad bar at Ruby Tuesday's, iced tea
Mid-afternoon snack...can of Campbell's brand canned spaghetti, juice with pedialyte
Late-afternoon snack...Dove ice cream bar
Dinner...Chicken leg (big one, from a roasting hen), corn, broccoli, and juice with pedialyte
Evening snack....who knows....but there has been one every night lately
Overnight....12 hours of TPN
Is it any wonder she's gaining half a pound a day?
It is amazing.. A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down. Just maybe JustJo you and yours are a sweet spoonful for your Mom.
mustangjeano
01-10-2012, 02:07 AM
It is amazing.. A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down. Just maybe JustJo you and yours are a sweet spoonful for your Mom.
Just piggy-bagging on Tommi's post. Jo, thanks for sharing this joyfull news.
deb_U_taunt
01-10-2012, 06:38 PM
Another piggy back...amazing how some love makes things better.
Just piggy-bagging on Tommi's post. Jo, thanks for sharing this joyfull news.
deb_U_taunt
01-13-2012, 10:53 AM
YEEHAW...all the biopsies came back benign!!!! I cried out of joy. :) I am not ready to do this crap again. So, surgery next month or so to even out my tits and then its just playing 'where's waldo' for the next 5 years, but as long I take ownership of my body (get tests and eat right), there is NO reason I can't live as long as my grandma did.
Jagg, thank you for sending your angels. :)
YEEHAW...all the biopsies came back benign!!!! I cried out of joy. :) I am not ready to do this crap again. So, surgery next month or so to even out my tits and then its just playing 'where's waldo' for the next 5 years, but as long I take ownership of my body (get tests and eat right), there is NO reason I can't live as long as my grandma did.
Jagg, thank you for sending your angels. :)
My angels said you are one awesome and incredible woman. And that cancer knows not to mess with you, they don't ever want to face your wrath again! :-) I'm so happy, that 2 peeps in a row now. I'm shooting for 1000 in a row. Its my year !
deb_U_taunt
01-13-2012, 03:08 PM
It is your year! I truly feel this this is going to be a great year. :)
Cancer must know it wasn't on my to-do list for this year.
1. siding and painting house
2. plant hummingbird garden for nana
3. go to burning man - new decorations for the bike for the trip
4. add to raised garden beds
5. mosaic front porch
Nope, not on the list. lol.
My angels said you are one awesome and incredible woman. And that cancer knows not to mess with you, they don't ever want to face your wrath again! :-) I'm so happy, that 2 peeps in a row now. I'm shooting for 1000 in a row. Its my year !
julieisafemme
01-13-2012, 10:32 PM
Hello All! I spent the day with my Mom today. It was the last day of her second round of chemo. She is doing well. Next week she is preparing for radiation. She has a small lesion in the frontal cortex of her brain. It has shrunk from the chemo but they want to try to get rid of it with radiation. She is a little scared about that and so am I.
They will be tapering her off the steroids they have had her on for the brain lesion. She is very worried about this and thinks that it means she will then experience some side effects from the chemo. She has not talked to the doctor about this so she does not have any real facts. Does anyone know about this? I don't know what the results will be of her going off the steroids. The main thing I worry about is the pain coming back.
She has to have 6 rounds of chemo instead of the 3 she initially thought. She is not super happy about that. She will be done in May.
In general she is doing really well and is in good spirits. We just don't know what is coming next and that is anxiety producing!!
I am sending refuah shelimah (complete healing) to you all.
deb_U_taunt
01-14-2012, 11:51 AM
I didn't have any additional pain or side effects coming off the steroids, but everyone is different, too. I felt better after no more side effects from the steroids, actually.
With the radiation, she will have a hard time tasting food. I recommend plastic utensils, the stainless seems to have a taste. I know it sounds odd, but it did help to use plastic. :)
Hello All! I spent the day with my Mom today. It was the last day of her second round of chemo. She is doing well. Next week she is preparing for radiation. She has a small lesion in the frontal cortex of her brain. It has shrunk from the chemo but they want to try to get rid of it with radiation. She is a little scared about that and so am I.
They will be tapering her off the steroids they have had her on for the brain lesion. She is very worried about this and thinks that it means she will then experience some side effects from the chemo. She has not talked to the doctor about this so she does not have any real facts. Does anyone know about this? I don't know what the results will be of her going off the steroids. The main thing I worry about is the pain coming back.
She has to have 6 rounds of chemo instead of the 3 she initially thought. She is not super happy about that. She will be done in May.
In general she is doing really well and is in good spirits. We just don't know what is coming next and that is anxiety producing!!
I am sending refuah shelimah (complete healing) to you all.
Heavenleahangel
01-16-2012, 02:54 PM
Hello, Everyone; I feel so ackward posting on this thread, but I offically "belong" to this community.
My right foot was swollen and tender so I went to my primary care and was told it's nothing to worry about. After 4 months of not being treated and not getting anywhere, I was deperate and went to a podiatrist. He immediately sent me for a xray, then a nuclear bone scan, then a white blood cell skin tag or scan and was told I actually have cancerous bone cells in my foot and I am going to start a biphosponate chemo infusion called Aredia on Monday the 23rd. I have had family members on chemo, but not this type. I have scoured the websites on what to expect and it is scary.
I don't have a lot of family/close friends to help me through this, but I do have my son I adopted and is 4 years old. I have had him since he was a newborn.
I appreciate any encouragement and if anyone has any experiece with Aredia, I would love to hear it-good or bad. Thanks, Heavenleahangel
Hello, Everyone; I feel so ackward posting on this thread, but I offically "belong" to this community.
My right foot was swollen and tender so I went to my primary care and was told it's nothing to worry about. After 4 months of not being treated and not getting anywhere, I was deperate and went to a podiatrist. He immediately sent me for a xray, then a nuclear bone scan, then a white blood cell skin tag or scan and was told I actually have cancerous bone cells in my foot and I am going to start a biphosponate chemo infusion called Aredia on Monday the 23rd. I have had family members on chemo, but not this type. I have scoured the websites on what to expect and it is scary.
I don't have a lot of family/close friends to help me through this, but I do have my son I adopted and is 4 years old. I have had him since he was a newborn.
I appreciate any encouragement and if anyone has any experiece with Aredia, I would love to hear it-good or bad. Thanks, Heavenleahangel
Hi Heaven...YOU have every right to be here...post away. AND the folks here are so incredibly supportive, so compassionate, and will step right in and walk this walk with you. I, for one, am here for you..just give me a holla..I, too, googled it..and it seems to be as safe as anything else out there. If there is anything I can do...from here anyway as I am still healing...please let me know...you know how to reach me...
It is okay to be afraid, be sacred, and uncertain..we have ALL faced it ourselves..firsthand.
IF I could travel, I would be there for you in a heartbeat...I would....but am not able to at this time. I CAN be here supportive and in spirit for you!!!
YOU are a BRAVE WARRIOR...set your mind to you will beat this.,...make cancer your bitch, just as each of us have...we will walk behind you, hold your hand, give you a hug, and write loving words of support and well wishes to you...we leave NO ONE behind here...EVER!
I know nothing I say right now will sink in BUT just know I am with you, my friend..I have your hand in mine..and I won't let go...hugs..YOU can do this..we will march with you....in spirit..in heart..in sisterhood...love to you, sweet lady..Clay xoxo
FIGHT baby, fight!!!!
Heavenleahangel
01-16-2012, 03:31 PM
Thanks, Clay; I do plan on fighting this with every ounce of life in me. I have a 4 year old little boy that will be an orphan if I die! Seriously! I have no one who can or will care for him. I have overcome some hellacious situations and came out a winner in true Leo lioness fashion! This too shall pass.....
Heavenleahangel
01-16-2012, 04:04 PM
This is what I think of my diagnosis today...
I’ve battled wars not mine to wage
I’ve fought the fight with endless rage.
I’ve been triumphant and stood my ground,
So cancer won’t beat ME this round!
The fighter inside me will stand strong
And battle ‘til this demons gone.
I’ll rally allies to help my plight
And let their love carry on my fight.
If I should falter on this road
I’ll call my family to lighten my load.
For I know I’m loved with faith abound,
So cancer won’t beat me-not this round.
In love’s name I rally all I need
To win this battle, and to succeed.
I’ve fought my battles, won them all
Cancer won’t be my final call!
Thanks, Clay; I do plan on fighting this with every ounce of life in me. I have a 4 year old little boy that will be an orphan if I die! Seriously! I have no one who can or will care for him. I have overcome some hellacious situations and came out a winner in true Leo lioness fashion! This too shall pass.....
YOU will win this battle..and I would take him...in a heartbeat!!! Fight baby!!! Fight!!! I love the poem below....YOU rawwwkkk, Girl!
Heavenleahangel..when all the wonderful and BRAVE WARRIORS & supporters read this...they will all be right her, rallying with me, along side you..and they are some awesome people....they all come online at different times...but just wait..you will be surrounded with a solid, close knit group...who WILL see to it that YOU survive and beat this....promise you...each is a solid, compassionate, and supportive being....having faced this same diagnosis many of them OR the caretaker/partners/friends who stood by...THEY are a BRAVE WARRIOR in my book also!!!!
Holding you & J. close to my heart, my friend...Clay
DapperButch
01-16-2012, 06:08 PM
Heavenleahangel,
I am very sorry that you have received a diagnosis of cancer. I have not heard of this type of chemotherapy. My knowledge base is pretty limited to colon cancer chemotherapy and I have some knowledge of breast cancer treatment.
I am also sorry that you do not have any close friends or family near by. You may want to look into cancer support groups in your area. Wherever it is you are getting your infusion should have this information.
Also, know that we are here and you are welcome to come and post, daily! Even though we have not all been through the same chemotherapy, we may have tips to deal with the various side effects. At the very least, we are here to listen.
The whole thing can be very scary, but know you will get through it.
Take care of you.
Hello, Everyone; I feel so ackward posting on this thread, but I offically "belong" to this community.
My right foot was swollen and tender so I went to my primary care and was told it's nothing to worry about. After 4 months of not being treated and not getting anywhere, I was deperate and went to a podiatrist. He immediately sent me for a xray, then a nuclear bone scan, then a white blood cell skin tag or scan and was told I actually have cancerous bone cells in my foot and I am going to start a biphosponate chemo infusion called Aredia on Monday the 23rd. I have had family members on chemo, but not this type. I have scoured the websites on what to expect and it is scary.
I don't have a lot of family/close friends to help me through this, but I do have my son I adopted and is 4 years old. I have had him since he was a newborn.
I appreciate any encouragement and if anyone has any experiece with Aredia, I would love to hear it-good or bad. Thanks, Heavenleahangel
Novelafemme
01-16-2012, 08:22 PM
Hello, Everyone; I feel so ackward posting on this thread, but I offically "belong" to this community.
My right foot was swollen and tender so I went to my primary care and was told it's nothing to worry about. After 4 months of not being treated and not getting anywhere, I was deperate and went to a podiatrist. He immediately sent me for a xray, then a nuclear bone scan, then a white blood cell skin tag or scan and was told I actually have cancerous bone cells in my foot and I am going to start a biphosponate chemo infusion called Aredia on Monday the 23rd. I have had family members on chemo, but not this type. I have scoured the websites on what to expect and it is scary.
I don't have a lot of family/close friends to help me through this, but I do have my son I adopted and is 4 years old. I have had him since he was a newborn.
I appreciate any encouragement and if anyone has any experiece with Aredia, I would love to hear it-good or bad. Thanks, Heavenleahangel
Heavenleahangel,
Welcome to the best support group you could ever not want to be a part of! :rrose: Like Dapper, I'm not too familiar with bone cancers, but I can sure give you a cyber hug when you need one! My partner and I both went through cancer this year and are both doing GREAT! I'm so sorry you are facing this with a little one to care for on your own.Just know there are a lot of fabulous people here who will help lift you up when you feel too tired to make a go at it on your own.
Much love and light,
Novela
Tommi
01-16-2012, 09:38 PM
Hello, Everyone; I feel so ackward posting on this thread, but I offically "belong" to this community. ......I appreciate any encouragement and if anyone has any experiece with Aredia, I would love to hear it-good or bad. Thanks, Heavenleahangel
Hi there,
Cancer makes you scared, and quiet, and lonely and then, it makes you realize there are things you need to do, and you fel feirce and feisty. We all have a story and a walk along the path, and well, our commonality is knowing we really are goint to be okay.
Besides all the Doctor appointments, tests, medication, chemo, radiation , and on and n, you will need to add fun stuff back into your life.
Sending you bear hugs and chocolate truffles. Tmmi
mustangjeano
01-16-2012, 09:47 PM
Dear Heaven, I just saw your post and want to jump in and assure you that you will not fight this battle alone. There are many amazing people on this thread who will support you and keep you in their hearts and prayers. I am not familiar with that particular chemo drug but I have taken the chemo ride.
Please feel free to pm me if you wish and I will also watch for updates from you on here.I love your poem.
Sending healing energy and love to you. Jean
Countyfem
01-16-2012, 10:05 PM
Hi Heaven so sorry to hear of your troubles...
Make sure you pay close attention to the side effects of Aredia, I did some research on Web MD not wanting to scare you just want to make sure you are WELL informed.
My prayers and thoughts are with you and your young man and I hope you have a speedy recovery.
[[[[[[[ hugs]]]]]]]]]]
(((((((((((((((((((Heavenleahangel)))))))))))))))) )
See how awesome the people in here are!!!!! You will feel love here. This is when people stand together...and hold onto one another, cry with one another, laugh with one another, and support one another...we are HERE....for you..anytime...we are all woven with having faced the same diagnosis as you (in varying forms that is.)
I want to talk with you tomorrow...call me pls? Hugs my sweet friend...Clay
PS This thread is all about people who have suffered the anguishes of that dreaded C word...have lived and nearly died from that and fought to live another day..we have walked on that battlefield of life...and survived..so will YOU. Dig deep...BELIEVE and stay positive...we are all here for you...anyone of us will lend an ear, a shoulder, and anything else you may need....anytime. The Planet is awesome in times of crises...people all pull together...:).
SweetJane
01-17-2012, 03:05 AM
Hang in there Heavenleah. We're all praying for you.
Heavenleahangel
01-17-2012, 07:31 AM
Thanks everyone for the love and support. I am home today and am going to scour more websites to gather as much info as I can about Aredia. I almost fell off the couch when I read that side effects can hit you "months" later!! :blink: Wow! I know my dr feels the good outweighs the risk, but thats nuts!
Jacob is smart enough to know something is going on. I told him the truth that I need to take some medicine at the hospital and when I feel yucky, I will still be here for him, but other people will be here to help me feel better and make sure he gets to school and everything. I put it in my best 4-year-old-terms I could come up with.
Again, I appreciate your care and support. I will post when I have more info. I go Thursday for my pre-infusion blood work. Wish me luck!!!
Thanks everyone for the love and support. I am home today and am going to scour more websites to gather as much info as I can about Aredia. I almost fell off the couch when I read that side effects can hit you "months" later!! :blink: Wow! I know my dr feels the good outweighs the risk, but thats nuts!
Jacob is smart enough to know something is going on. I told him the truth that I need to take some medicine at the hospital and when I feel yucky, I will still be here for him, but other people will be here to help me feel better and make sure he gets to school and everything. I put it in my best 4-year-old-terms I could come up with.
Again, I appreciate your care and support. I will post when I have more info. I go Thursday for my pre-infusion blood work. Wish me luck!!!
morning Heavenleahangel......I know all of this is so overwhelming for you, and for Jacob! He can "sense" your stress and "feel" it also! So yes, he does know something is up. All you can do is to continue with his routines as close to the same as possible. Spend quality time with him, reassure him, and be as positive as possible with all of this...a lot to try to do, yes, BUT it will help allay his fears, too!
The website WebMd has the best and most correct information on this drug! It even has reviews from people who actually took it. It is so easy to want to read all one can and that can get confusing and frightening in itself. Just try to think as positive as possible and keep yourself in a state of calmness..and think in terms of this is going to make me so much better...yes there are "possible" side effects but that doesn't mean they will all mainfest. The most folks get with chemo side effects is flu like symptoms and bone pain. They usually give Zometa to help with that...the main and most important thing to remember is that your immune system will be compromised. YOU need to stay as healthy as possible...people will, SHOULD understand! It is of UTMOST importance that you keep visitors to a bare minimum, keep everyone with any kind of sniffles and cold symptoms away from you! Set up lots of bottles of hand sanitizers all over the space you will be in....you should keep yourself to a confined space as much as possible...durting the treatments...to protect YOU from germs and colds. HANDWASHING is of the single most importance..as well as keeping you hydrated and well stocked in Vitamin D and Calcium!!!Please know I am offering all of this advice having gone thru this with my deceased wife...and as a Nurse!
Positive and upbeat outlook
No visitors during treatment (anyone who has to be around you should have a flu shot as well!!!)
Quality time with Jacob & reassure him...
Vitamin D & Calcium
Hand Sanitizers by the Gallons
Hand soap and LOTS Handwashing!
Smile...deep breathe...we are all here for you, my friend!!!
Read WebMd and reviews...
I am here for you at any given time!!
Big hugs lady..Clay
DapperButch
01-17-2012, 05:34 PM
morning Heavenleahangel......I know all of this is so overwhelming for you, and for Jacob! He can "sense" your stress and "feel" it also! So yes, he does know something is up. All you can do is to continue with his routines as close to the same as possible. Spend quality time with him, reassure him, and be as positive as possible with all of this...a lot to try to do, yes, BUT it will help allay his fears, too!
The website WebMd has the best and most correct information on this drug! It even has reviews from people who actually took it. It is so easy to want to read all one can and that can get confusing and frightening in itself. Just try to think as positive as possible and keep yourself in a state of calmness..and think in terms of this is going to make me so much better...yes there are "possible" side effects but that doesn't mean they will all mainfest. The most folks get with chemo side effects is flu like symptoms and bone pain. They usually give Zometa to help with that...the main and most important thing to remember is that your immune system will be compromised. YOU need to stay as healthy as possible...people will, SHOULD understand! It is of UTMOST importance that you keep visitors to a bare minimum, keep everyone with any kind of sniffles and cold symptoms away from you! Set up lots of bottles of hand sanitizers all over the space you will be in....you should keep yourself to a confined space as much as possible...durting the treatments...to protect YOU from germs and colds. HANDWASHING is of the single most importance..as well as keeping you hydrated and well stocked in Vitamin D and Calcium!!!Please know I am offering all of this advice having gone thru this with my deceased wife...and as a Nurse!
Positive and upbeat outlook
No visitors during treatment (anyone who has to be around you should have a flu shot as well!!!)
Quality time with Jacob & reassure him...
Vitamin D & Calcium
Hand Sanitizers by the Gallons
Hand soap and LOTS Handwashing!
Smile...deep breathe...we are all here for you, my friend!!!
Read WebMd and reviews...
I am here for you at any given time!!
Big hugs lady..Clay
Clay,
With all due respect, the above is not true for everyone. Many people have a hell of a lot more than flu like symptoms and many people do not have bone pain. It depends on the chemo drug and it depends on the person.
Additionally, please be careful making suggestions as to which vitamins or supplements a person should take. I went over a list of supplements with my oncologist and she picked and chose which ones were ok to take while I was on chemotherapy. For example, green tea is an excellent antioxidant, and I take it in large doses...NOW. It would have resulted in toxicity if I had taken it while I was doing my chemotherapy. The drugs used in chemotherapy are different depending upon the type of cancer and depending upon the person. Vitamins and supplements are drugs. Just like any other drug, we need to make sure that our drugs work in harmony.
I am not trying to bust your chops here, I just want to point out that we really need to be hesitant giving out medical advice to people, especially when it comes to medications people can get over the counter.
JustJo
01-17-2012, 06:13 PM
Clay,
With all due respect, the above is not true for everyone. Many people have a hell of a lot more than flu like symptoms and many people do not have bone pain. It depends on the chemo drug and it depends on the person.
Additionally, please be careful making suggestions as to which vitamins or supplements a person should take. I went over a list of supplements with my oncologist and she picked and chose which ones were ok to take while I was on chemotherapy. For example, green tea is an excellent antioxidant, and I take it in large doses...NOW. It would have resulted in toxicity if I had taken it while I was doing my chemotherapy. The drugs used in chemotherapy are different depending upon the type of cancer and depending upon the person. Vitamins and supplements are drugs. Just like any other drug, we need to make sure that our drugs work in harmony.
I am not trying to bust your chops here, I just want to point out that we really need to be hesitant giving out medical advice to people, especially when it comes to medications people can get over the counter.
I have to step in and agree with Dapper. I know your advice is coming from good intentions Clay, but many people did that with my mother....and she was spending a fortune on supplements that were actually hurting her.
Yes, we have made changes in her care...but every single step was okayed by her doctor...even something as mild as adding Pedialyte to battle her dehydration.
Drugs, chemo, over the counter medications, supplements, even food....can have negative interactions....and no two people are alike. I'm a huge advocate of researching and learning all you can...online and from people who have/are living it....but ultimately I am a bigger advocate of checking EVERYTHING with your doctor first.
Also, I'm not a huge fan of WebMD and have found some downright incorrect information on that site. Personally, I prefer the American Cancer Society or The Mayo Clinic sites.
mustangjeano
01-18-2012, 01:22 AM
Thanks everyone for the love and support. I am home today and am going to scour more websites to gather as much info as I can about Aredia. I almost fell off the couch when I read that side effects can hit you "months" later!! :blink: Wow! I know my dr feels the good outweighs the risk, but thats nuts!
Jacob is smart enough to know something is going on. I told him the truth that I need to take some medicine at the hospital and when I feel yucky, I will still be here for him, but other people will be here to help me feel better and make sure he gets to school and everything. I put it in my best 4-year-old-terms I could come up with.
Again, I appreciate your care and support. I will post when I have more info. I go Thursday for my pre-infusion blood work. Wish me luck!!!
keeping the best thoughts for you and Jacob.
Novelafemme
01-19-2012, 04:50 PM
HUGE Sigh of relief!!!!!!
Just got back from the oncologist and my partner's CA125 was THIRTEEN!!! WOHOO!!! He did a pelvic exam and found no swollen or enlarged tissue or nodes. He feels 99.99999% sure she is cancer free!!! WOHOO!! We were all jumping up and down and hugging and crying.
We are so blessed and I am so thankful to have this support group here.
I didn't sleep well last night in anticipation of today so I'm gonna rest my eyes.
Lots of love, Novela :bunchflowers:
HUGE Sigh of relief!!!!!!
Just got back from the oncologist and my partner's CA125 was THIRTEEN!!! WOHOO!!! He did a pelvic exam and found no swollen or enlarged tissue or nodes. He feels 99.99999% sure she is cancer free!!! WOHOO!! We were all jumping up and down and hugging and crying.
We are so blessed and I am so thankful to have this support group here.
I didn't sleep well last night in anticipation of today so I'm gonna rest my eyes.
Lots of love, Novela :bunchflowers:
WhoooHooo, Novela!! THAT is awesome!!!! She made cancer her bitch, also..that is what debby & I say. My oncologist LOVED it and wants it on a shirt for her to wear!!!
Congrats.....I am so thrilled to hear this...we are ALL BRAVE WARRIORS!! Rock it, GF!!...much love and blessings...Clay
DapperButch
01-19-2012, 07:04 PM
HUGE Sigh of relief!!!!!!
Just got back from the oncologist and my partner's CA125 was THIRTEEN!!! WOHOO!!! He did a pelvic exam and found no swollen or enlarged tissue or nodes. He feels 99.99999% sure she is cancer free!!! WOHOO!! We were all jumping up and down and hugging and crying.
We are so blessed and I am so thankful to have this support group here.
I didn't sleep well last night in anticipation of today so I'm gonna rest my eyes.
Lots of love, Novela :bunchflowers:
Wonderful! <High fives all around>
mustangjeano
01-19-2012, 10:23 PM
HUGE Sigh of relief!!!!!!
Just got back from the oncologist and my partner's CA125 was THIRTEEN!!! WOHOO!!! He did a pelvic exam and found no swollen or enlarged tissue or nodes. He feels 99.99999% sure she is cancer free!!! WOHOO!! We were all jumping up and down and hugging and crying.
We are so blessed and I am so thankful to have this support group here.
I didn't sleep well last night in anticipation of today so I'm gonna rest my eyes.
Lots of love, Novela :bunchflowers:
EXCELLENT NEWS. Thank you for sharing it with us.
JustBeingMe
01-20-2012, 02:40 AM
My uncle's Neuroblastoma brain cancer came back again. He was cancer free for 6 yrs until this last 6 month check up. He had surgery a few days ago, just got home from the hospital Tues. He's eating well, and walking around but his gait is not stable nor is the usage of his left hand and arm. His neurosurgeon was able to save his eyesight, otherwise he would have gone blind and would have NOT done the surgery. He is a very strong man and I love him with all my heart, but he is retired now because of this, otherwise he would still be working as a master carpenter. He's 70 now, and feels like he is worthless and I just try to remind him how much we all love him and that he has a 3 yr old great grand daughter that loves him soo much and that just being around to watch her blossom and grow is a blessing. I don't know what else to say to him. I feel lost when he says to me he feels useless and worthless and says he shouldn't have done the surgery that they should have just put him in the ground already. Breaks my heart to hear him speak like this. Anyone have any suggestions to help me when he is like this? I keep reminding him also that he is the only remaining cancer survivor his doctor has now for the past 6 yrs and how proud of him his doctors are of him. He does everything they tell him to do so he can get well and remain healthy. Thanks for listening to me babble on and on.
Heavenleahangel
01-20-2012, 05:25 PM
It's Friday evening and sowly, but surely, the fear :watereyes: and uncertainty of my starting chemo Monday morning is setting in. I have always fought for everything and anything in my life. Whether I fought *for* it or *against* it. Either way, whichever side I was on, I have been a warrior. Now, I am not sure whether I am fighting for it or against it.
The pain in my foot and ankle where the bones are affected is horrendous and there hasn't been anything that has totally eased the pain.
The lioness in me is rallying once more for the fight and will demonstrate my roar Monday morning when I show up at the cancer treatment center of Samaritan Hospital in Troy, NY. Thank you all for the prayers and support everyone has shown so far. I will keep you posted....
It's Friday evening and sowly, but surely, the fear :watereyes: and uncertainty of my starting chemo Monday morning is setting in. I have always fought for everything and anything in my life. Whether I fought *for* it or *against* it. Either way, whichever side I was on, I have been a warrior. Now, I am not sure whether I am fighting for it or against it.
The pain in my foot and ankle where the bones are affected is horrendous and there hasn't been anything that has totally eased the pain.
The lioness in me is rallying once more for the fight and will demonstrate my roar Monday morning when I show up at the cancer treatment center of Samaritan Hospital in Troy, NY. Thank you all for the prayers and support everyone has shown so far. I will keep you posted....
Good luck, Heavenleahangel! Still in your corner...YOU can do it....do it for Jacob..do it for YOU! Let the lioness courage and strength raaawwwrrrrrrr...hugs my friend....Clay
Prayers and healing energy coming at you...mega loads!
Midnight
01-20-2012, 08:14 PM
It's Friday evening and sowly, but surely, the fear :watereyes: and uncertainty of my starting chemo Monday morning is setting in. I have always fought for everything and anything in my life. Whether I fought *for* it or *against* it. Either way, whichever side I was on, I have been a warrior. Now, I am not sure whether I am fighting for it or against it.
The pain in my foot and ankle where the bones are affected is horrendous and there hasn't been anything that has totally eased the pain.
The lioness in me is rallying once more for the fight and will demonstrate my roar Monday morning when I show up at the cancer treatment center of Samaritan Hospital in Troy, NY. Thank you all for the prayers and support everyone has shown so far. I will keep you posted....
Sending positivity and energy your way
mustangjeano
01-20-2012, 10:31 PM
There will be a large group with you in spirit. Anxiety and fear are certainly to be expected. Try to do some slow deep breathing when you are feeling that way. Some people try to visualize the chemo as an ally in your defeat of the cancer.
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Jean
SweetJane
01-21-2012, 01:40 AM
Heavenleahangel,
Mustangjeano is right. We all will be with you on Monday. I'll put you on the Unity prayer list.
Sending out positive energy to you for your peace of mind and for healing.
SugarFemme
01-21-2012, 01:50 AM
Heavenleahangel, you stare down that insidious cancer and you tell it with all the ferocity you can muster up that you are NOT going to let it beat you. You show it who is boss and that you are not going to allow it into your life. :bouquet:
And here is a prayer from me to you....
May the One who was a source of blessing for our ancestors, bring blessings of healing upon Heavenleah, a healing of body and a healing of spirit. May those in whose care they are entrusted be gifted with wisdom and skill, and those who surround them be gifted with love and trust, openness and support in their care. And may they be healed along with all those who are in need. Blessed are You, Source of healing. Amen.
Dominique
01-21-2012, 01:44 PM
credits attached:
Popular herbal supplements may adversely affect chemotherapy treatment
Doctors urge cancer patients to discuss supplements with their doctors before beginning treatment
CHICAGO- Acai berry, cumin, herbal tea, turmeric and long-term use of garlic – all herbal supplements commonly believed to be beneficial to your health – may negatively impact chemotherapy treatment according to a new report presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) meeting in Chicago this summer. Researchers from Northwestern Memorial hospital say there is growing evidence that these popular supplements may intensify or weaken the effect of chemotherapy drugs and in some cases, may cause a toxic, even lethal reaction.
"With the growth of the Internet, patients have better access to information about alternative products and often turn to dietary and herbal supplements to treat their illness because they think they're natural and safe," said June M. McKoy, MD, geriatrician at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and lead investigator on the ASCO presentation. "What people don't realize is that supplements are more than just vitamins and can counteract medical therapies if not taken appropriately".
McKoy, who is also director of geriatric oncology at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, says more research is needed to understand which supplements interact with chemotherapy drugs and the extent of those interactions and encourages patients to openly communicate with their physicians about the use of supplements.
"Patients need to tell their doctors what medications they are taking – including vitamins and supplements – to avoid any possible interaction," said McKoy who is also an assistant professor of medicine and preventive medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
Herbal supplements, defined as plant or plant parts used for therapeutic purposes, can interact with chemotherapy drugs through different mechanisms. Some herbs can interfere with the metabolism of the drugs, making them less effective while other herbs such as long-term use of garlic may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. While culinary herbs used in small quantities for flavoring are generally safe, consuming large amounts for prolonged periods of time may have a negative effect on the body when going through chemotherapy.
Recent research shows that 50 percent of patients undergoing chemotherapy did not tell their doctor they were taking alternative therapies. "Some believe it's not important, while others are uncomfortable admitting they are pursuing alternative therapies," said McKoy. "The truth is, integrative approaches can be beneficial for cancer patients, but it's important to take these approaches at the right time and under the supervision of your doctor."
McKoy urges patients to stop taking herbal supplements while receiving chemotherapy until more is known about possible interactions, but encourages those who are interested in complementary approaches to have a conversation with their doctor about other approaches that may be beneficial.
"Integrative therapies such as massage, acupuncture and meditation can address important patient needs by alleviating stress, addressing pain and helping patients cope," said Melinda Ring, MD, medical director for the Northwestern Memorial Physicians Group's Center for Integrative Medicine and Wellness.
No matter the course of treatment, McKoy stresses the importance of physicians and patients being more cognizant of this potential interaction and encourages communication about all herbal supplement intakes. "Patients should bring in labels and bottles to their appointments. This can help the doctor calibrate drug dosage with other supplements in mind in order to prevent toxicities," stated McKoy.
McKoy plans to launch a pilot study this fall to examine how frequently conversations about supplements come up between cancer patients and their doctors.
"By identifying communication barriers, we can take steps to improve doctor patient communication in order to prevent potentially dangerous drug interactions," said McKoy.
###
For more information please visit www.nmh.org (http://www.nmh.org/) or call 312-926-0779.
About Northwestern Memorial HealthCare Northwestern Memorial HealthCare is the parent corporation of Chicago's Northwestern Memorial Hospital, an 854-bed academic medical center hospital and Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital, a 205-bed community hospital located in Lake Forest, Illinois.
JustJo
01-22-2012, 10:17 AM
Well....we are up and down over here.
Mom has started chemo again...the "modified" chemo she had high hopes for. Turns out it makes her just as sick...and she will still have to have it every 2 weeks....basically for as long as she can stand it.
Right now she is in the first couple days after the treatment....which means lots of sleeping, lots of depression, lots of anger and tears, lots of throwing up, and lots of conversations that are pretty rough on both of us about is it better to live a long time miserably or a short time feeling relatively normal?
Given the level of abdominal pain she has I think the "relatively normal" part is a moot point.
She has not gone back onto the morphine, but has had to up the number of Lortab she takes each day....and is still using the Fentanol (sp?) patches as well.
We have fixed the dehydration problem, which helps...and she is still eating better and managing to keep the weight up (after a brief issue when she got overly cocky and ate salad and pizza in the same day). Her goal is to hit 130 lbs so she can go off the TPN and get the Pict line out.
Evidently the issue, for her, is that she is literally freckled inside with punctate lesions all over the external tissue of the small intestine, liver and kidneys. These are cancer, but can stay "dormant" (for lack of a better term) indefinitely...perhaps longer with chemo although they can't tell us that for sure....or can become active and develop into tumors at any point.
The only procedure that is possible is called a "belly bath" or "belly wash"....and she is in no way strong enough to survive it. Even with the procedure....chances are it won't eliminate the problem. Her doctors don't recommend that she have it, at this point anyway, because she is more likely to die on the table than have it help her.
Right now....it's one day at a time....a little better now that she can eat and drink....but still very, very rough.
hugs to Jo & mom...keeping you both in thoughts and prayers!
HEAVENLEAH: I am walking with you, my dear sweet friend!!! Much love & prayers...with you & with Jacob! Keep in touch with me....sending you healing energies and white light of peace....my friend! love you & Jacob!!!
To everyone...big hugs...and hoping everyone has an awesome week!! I heart you all! Clay
Heavenleahangel
01-22-2012, 05:35 PM
It's a little over 12 hours and I go to the treamtent center for my first round. I have talked myself out of taking the cbemo atleast 4-5 times. I think I can get past the bone issues without it. As I was cooking for my Dad's bday dinner today, I accidently put my weight on my right foot and I heard a "pop" really loud and a burst of pain that lit me up like I was on fire! My ankle popped and I am pretty sure I broke the ankle. I will keep everyone posted on my progress tomorrow. Please keep the prayers coming...my faith is a little low right now.... :praying:
mustangjeano
01-22-2012, 10:02 PM
It's a little over 12 hours and I go to the treamtent center for my first round. I have talked myself out of taking the cbemo atleast 4-5 times. I think I can get past the bone issues without it. As I was cooking for my Dad's bday dinner today, I accidently put my weight on my right foot and I heard a "pop" really loud and a burst of pain that lit me up like I was on fire! My ankle popped and I am pretty sure I broke the ankle. I will keep everyone posted on my progress tomorrow. Please keep the prayers coming...my faith is a little low right now.... :praying:
OMG Heavenleah, I was thinking about you just a little while ago and sending healing energy for a smooth and uneventful chemo appt. tomorrow. I wonder if they will postpone the chemo if you have a broken ankle. Do you have someone going with you? Yes, please keep us updated. Sending prayers to you now and tomorrow.
Jean
mustangjeano
01-22-2012, 10:08 PM
Well....we are up and down over here.
Mom has started chemo again...the "modified" chemo she had high hopes for. Turns out it makes her just as sick...and she will still have to have it every 2 weeks....basically for as long as she can stand it.
Right now she is in the first couple days after the treatment....which means lots of sleeping, lots of depression, lots of anger and tears, lots of throwing up, and lots of conversations that are pretty rough on both of us about is it better to live a long time miserably or a short time feeling relatively normal?
Given the level of abdominal pain she has I think the "relatively normal" part is a moot point.
She has not gone back onto the morphine, but has had to up the number of Lortab she takes each day....and is still using the Fentanol (sp?) patches as well.
We have fixed the dehydration problem, which helps...and she is still eating better and managing to keep the weight up (after a brief issue when she got overly cocky and ate salad and pizza in the same day). Her goal is to hit 130 lbs so she can go off the TPN and get the Pict line out.
Evidently the issue, for her, is that she is literally freckled inside with punctate lesions all over the external tissue of the small intestine, liver and kidneys. These are cancer, but can stay "dormant" (for lack of a better term) indefinitely...perhaps longer with chemo although they can't tell us that for sure....or can become active and develop into tumors at any point.
The only procedure that is possible is called a "belly bath" or "belly wash"....and she is in no way strong enough to survive it. Even with the procedure....chances are it won't eliminate the problem. Her doctors don't recommend that she have it, at this point anyway, because she is more likely to die on the table than have it help her.
Right now....it's one day at a time....a little better now that she can eat and drink....but still very, very rough.
Jo, I can only imagine how terribly hard this time is for your Mom and you. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
SweetJane
01-22-2012, 10:28 PM
Heaveanleahangel,
I put your name on the Unity prayer list. It's prayed over locally for 30 days and then to Silent Unity for another 30.
I will keep you in my prayers myself.
SweetJane
01-22-2012, 10:40 PM
JustJo,
I'm keeping you in prayer, too.
Heavenleahangel
01-23-2012, 11:43 AM
I'm in the middle of my first round and so far, its not too bad. I'm waiting for the "bad" part, lol. I'm here alone (the one who *promised* me yesterday to be here for me today bailed out on me and I found out they weren't being truthful with me), but hey, I'm a fighter and will get over it. I can tough this out alone. I have others I can call/text and I know they will be here for me and all the support from my BFP peeps! Thank you so much!!!
I'm in the middle of my first round and so far, its not too bad. I'm waiting for the "bad" part, lol. I'm here alone (the one who *promised* me yesterday to be here for me today bailed out on me and I found out they weren't being truthful with me), but hey, I'm a fighter and will get over it. I can tough this out alone. I have others I can call/text and I know they will be here for me and all the support from my BFP peeps! Thank you so much!!!
Heavenleahangel...I am so sorry about the one who bailed...and YES you do have others to lean on!!! Stay strong, stay strong & focused!!! What did they say about that ankle...is it broken??? Sending you big hugs and mega tons of white light and energy..from one who fought hard and won...as can you!!! Stay in touch..k...Clay
Heavenleahangel
01-23-2012, 03:30 PM
I made it home and Im tucked into my loveseat all comfy. I don't feel as bad as I thought I would. I got some Comprasine (spelling) and Zofran for nausea. Have a good evening, everyone. Thanks again for the healing energies, prayers and positive thoughts. I see the dr at 9 AM tomorrow morning and then blood tests to check my kidney function.
SweetJane
01-23-2012, 04:14 PM
Heavenleah,
Bless you, hun. Get all comfy. Got anyone to help you out there?
JustJo
01-23-2012, 04:18 PM
Heavenleah,
Bless you, hun. Get all comfy. Got anyone to help you out there?
Hey Heavenleah,
The American Cancer Society chapter in our area has volunteers that help with errand running, house stuff, etc. for folks undergoing chemo, radiation, etc.
I felt a little odd about it, since I'm able to take care of my Mom, but they assured me that they were still happy to help even though I'm her caregiver. I've opted not to use the volunteers' time so that they can use it to help folks who are alone and really need it.....but I recommend giving them a call, or checking out their website.
Sometimes, just having someone run to the store, or toss in a load of laundry, can be a real help.
Hugs,
Jo
Heavenleahangel
01-23-2012, 04:52 PM
Thanks Jane and Jo. I will actually give the cancer center a call tomorrow. I could really use an extra set of hands right now! I am dealing with Jacob on my own right now but someone will be here in a little while to help me with him and get him to bed. Im not supposed to be putting any weight on my foot and I am a clutz on crutches. But, hey, I gotta do what I gotta do. A lil boy needs his Mama!
julieisafemme
01-26-2012, 09:04 PM
Hello all! My Mom is doing really well. Amazingly so. She had a radiation treatment last week. She had no side effects and it was not too hard for her. She has gained 10 pounds since she started chemotherapy.
This week she had a fever a couple of days but her white cell count was ok. She in on antibiotics and seems to be ok with that. They are tapering her off the steroids slowly. Next week she will start her fourth round of chemotherapy.
She got two super cute wigs and that has made her very happy. They look great!
HeavenleAngel I hope you are feeling well and will call the cancer center. I have started volunteering with seniors and I get so much pleasure from helping. Anyone who is volunteering wants to help and you will be doing them a favor by allowing them to help you!
Be well everyone.
Hello all! My Mom is doing really well. Amazingly so. She had a radiation treatment last week. She had no side effects and it was not too hard for her. She has gained 10 pounds since she started chemotherapy.
This week she had a fever a couple of days but her white cell count was ok. She in on antibiotics and seems to be ok with that. They are tapering her off the steroids slowly. Next week she will start her fourth round of chemotherapy.
She got two super cute wigs and that has made her very happy. They look great!
HeavenleAngel I hope you are feeling well and will call the cancer center. I have started volunteering with seniors and I get so much pleasure from helping. Anyone who is volunteering wants to help and you will be doing them a favor by allowing them to help you!
Be well everyone.
AWESOME, Mom!!! WTG! Thanks Julies..hugs to you both!!
Heavenleahangel
01-27-2012, 04:05 PM
Just stopping in to give everyone an update on my progress. I have been sick to my stomach and feeling really "bloated" all week. I know now why they say chemo causes fatigue but I dont understand how they expect you to exercise to beat the fatigue. The people who tell you that obviously have never went through this stuff. I just cant muster the energy to walk up my stairs, let alone exercise. Mine is partly from the dehydration, Im sure.
I have tried to shield Jacob from as much of this as I can, but he is so smart and so clingy to me, I cant hide my condition. It really makes me sad...
Thanks again everyone for the private and yahoo messages wishing me well. It really brightens my day when I log in and see that someone cares.
JustJo
01-27-2012, 04:22 PM
Just stopping in to give everyone an update on my progress. I have been sick to my stomach and feeling really "bloated" all week. I know now why they say chemo causes fatigue but I dont understand how they expect you to exercise to beat the fatigue. The people who tell you that obviously have never went through this stuff. I just cant muster the energy to walk up my stairs, let alone exercise. Mine is partly from the dehydration, Im sure.
I have tried to shield Jacob from as much of this as I can, but he is so smart and so clingy to me, I cant hide my condition. It really makes me sad...
Thanks again everyone for the private and yahoo messages wishing me well. It really brightens my day when I log in and see that someone cares.
Hi Heavenlea,
Sorry you're feeling so bad. My mom struggles with dehydration and it was a major issue. We found that adding Pedialyte did her a world of good. Right now we use the unflavored variety and mix it half and half with juice a couple times a day. It's worth a try. :)
Heavenleahangel
01-27-2012, 04:40 PM
Hi Heavenlea,
Sorry you're feeling so bad. My mom struggles with dehydration and it was a major issue. We found that adding Pedialyte did her a world of good. Right now we use the unflavored variety and mix it half and half with juice a couple times a day. It's worth a try. :)
Thanks for the suggestion. I naively started guzzling Chrystal Lite, but the dr told me any kind of beverages that have "lite" in the name will just run right through me and NOT to drink them. Who knew, right? I have started eating ice chips, too. It's all water..lol, and popsickles. I hope your Mom feels better soon! You are very special for caring for her. Wish I could say the same about my family.
DapperButch
01-27-2012, 05:42 PM
Just stopping in to give everyone an update on my progress. I have been sick to my stomach and feeling really "bloated" all week. I know now why they say chemo causes fatigue but I dont understand how they expect you to exercise to beat the fatigue. The people who tell you that obviously have never went through this stuff. I just cant muster the energy to walk up my stairs, let alone exercise. Mine is partly from the dehydration, Im sure.
I have tried to shield Jacob from as much of this as I can, but he is so smart and so clingy to me, I cant hide my condition. It really makes me sad...
Thanks again everyone for the private and yahoo messages wishing me well. It really brightens my day when I log in and see that someone cares.
Heavenleaangel,
There have been a number of studies done that have shown that even the smallest amount of exercise helps with fatigue during chemo. Even just taking a 5-10 minute, slow walk will make a difference. Built up from there.
Ok, so I didn't follow that advice consistently myself during chemo, but I thought I would let you know what I have read in more than one place.
Don't forget that Gatorade is great for dehydration. It has the electrolytes to get you back into balance (you lose this when you are dehydrated). If you start to lose weight and have a hard time not getting it under control, choose the Pedialyte, for certain. Or do Gatorade for dehydration and protein shakes for calories/health.
Also, drinking a lot of water is important after chemo. It flushes the chemo out of your system. You will feel less shitty the sooner you get that stuff out.
julieisafemme
01-27-2012, 09:33 PM
Pedialyte pops are good too. Especially if the chemotherapy is causing mouth sores. My Mom is also rinsing with baking soda twice a day and that has helped the mouth sores this time around.
Pedialyte pops are good too. Especially if the chemotherapy is causing mouth sores. My Mom is also rinsing with baking soda twice a day and that has helped the mouth sores this time around.
hey Julieisa...Walgreen's carries a whole product line of BioTene products geared to help with these issues...dry mouth anyway.....and you can get a prescription for a therapeutic mouthwash from your oncologist...jus' sayin'
julieisafemme
01-27-2012, 09:48 PM
hey Julieisa...Walgreen's carries a whole product line of BioTene products geared to help with these issues...dry mouth anyway.....and you can get a prescription for a therapeutic mouthwash from your oncologist...jus' sayin'
Yes my Mom has the prescription but she has not filled it yet. Magic Mouthwash I think it is called. She likes popsicles so that works for her. I don't know about the BioTene. I will have to get that for her. She has a bridge that she takes out at night and that was really irritating her mouth. She left it in at night and that helped but that also annoyed her! So now she is back to taking it out again. Thanks for the info Clay and I hope you are feeling well.
Yes my Mom has the prescription but she has not filled it yet. Magic Mouthwash I think it is called. She likes popsicles so that works for her. I don't know about the BioTene. I will have to get that for her. She has a bridge that she takes out at night and that was really irritating her mouth. She left it in at night and that helped but that also annoyed her! So now she is back to taking it out again. Thanks for the info Clay and I hope you are feeling well.
You are so very welcome, Julieis...and yes, it IS called Magic Mouthwash...I am fine....thanks for asking...give mom a hug...have a great weekend...Clay
DapperButch
01-28-2012, 08:54 AM
Yes my Mom has the prescription but she has not filled it yet. Magic Mouthwash I think it is called. She likes popsicles so that works for her. I don't know about the BioTene. I will have to get that for her. She has a bridge that she takes out at night and that was really irritating her mouth. She left it in at night and that helped but that also annoyed her! So now she is back to taking it out again. Thanks for the info Clay and I hope you are feeling well.
Julie, just to let you know "Magic Mouthwash" comes in cherry and regular. The pharmacist actually mixes up the product right there. My pharmacist said cherry is the automatic choice, so she had to specifically order the plain for me. I did not want the cherry b/c the way I used the mouth wash was to take a mouthful of it and "hold it" over the sore in my mouth until it was numbed a few minutes before I ate. It only somewhat worked, but it was a way I could eat. I didn't want the cherry flavor b/c it effected the taste of my food. The product really only worked for about 10 minutes.
My chemo was one week on, one week off. The week off was when I had the mouth sores, so I hardly ate. The week on, I didn't have mouth sores, so I ate a lot, in order to bring my weight back up. I did this for 6 months. I actually had to miss work sometimes b/c it would be extremely painful to even talk (I meet with people all day = a lot of talking!).
I was told the baking soda rinse would not help after the mouth sores appeared, but was supposed to keep them from occurring (?). I am glad it helps your mom though, Julie.
Magic mouthwash is supposed to soothe, but unfortunately, not eradicate the mouth sores. My oncologist told me there was nothing else out there and then I saw in "cure" magazine an advertised new product. I suggested to my oncologist that they request free samples from the company, and they did. By the time they got it in, I had finished my last chemo and the mouth sores had gone away. Subsequently, I couldn't be their "guinea pig" for the product as they had hoped. lol I'm sorry that I don't remember the name of the product and it was too new to get up on google. It may be there now (this would have been 9 months ago).
Ok, so I just remembered they gave me a sample of a different product that was also new out. It burned my mouth. They saw the ingredients included alcohol, so they literally tossed it into the trash (alcohol was the reason for the burning, so it is pretty stupid they put it in there).
It is so funny how memories continue to come back here and there about my time in the hospital and memories about chemo. It is weird, as you would think I would remember it all by now.
For all of you caregivers and for people currently fighting cancer, look into getting Cure magazine (tommi put a link in this thread a ways back). It is an interesting and useful read and is free to the two above named groups.
Take care, everyone!
deb_U_taunt
01-29-2012, 02:38 PM
0_7JJrU9HUg
be interesting to hear their "take" on colon cancer.....heheheh
deb_U_taunt
01-29-2012, 02:42 PM
Thanks Jane and Jo. I will actually give the cancer center a call tomorrow. I could really use an extra set of hands right now! I am dealing with Jacob on my own right now but someone will be here in a little while to help me with him and get him to bed. Im not supposed to be putting any weight on my foot and I am a clutz on crutches. But, hey, I gotta do what I gotta do. A lil boy needs his Mama!
Great online support network: http://csn.cancer.org/
deb_U_taunt
01-29-2012, 03:01 PM
be interesting to hear their "take" on colon cancer.....heheheh
I looked and couldn't find a clip like that. :(
Novelafemme
01-30-2012, 11:01 AM
Hi All,
Just got back from NYC in the wee hours this morning. We spent the bulk of Friday at the NYU Cancer Center with my sister as she went through chemo #4. So different from anything we have experienced. She is getting the R-CHOP drugs for her lymphoma and really hasn't had many of the same side effects. Some hair loss, but she still has her eyebrows and eyelashes. She got up Saturday morning and taught her usual two hour yoga class! Then she met us Sunday for brunch and also walked the 1.5 mile long high line walk way AND BACK! She's pretty amazing! Just a little update on her and to say thanks again for all the support!! :bunchflowers:
Hi All,
Just got back from NYC in the wee hours this morning. We spent the bulk of Friday at the NYU Cancer Center with my sister as she went through chemo #4. So different from anything we have experienced. She is getting the R-CHOP drugs for her lymphoma and really hasn't had many of the same side effects. Some hair loss, but she still has her eyebrows and eyelashes. She got up Saturday morning and taught her usual two hour yoga class! Then she met us Sunday for brunch and also walked the 1.5 mile long high line walk way AND BACK! She's pretty amazing! Just a little update on her and to say thanks again for all the support!! :bunchflowers:
THAT is fantastic news, Novela..and You go SISTER!!!! Awesome...hugs to you..Clay
Tommi
02-05-2012, 01:43 PM
Hi All,
Just got back from NYC in the wee hours this morning. We spent the bulk of Friday at the NYU Cancer Center with my sister as she went through chemo #4. So different from anything we have experienced. She is getting the R-CHOP drugs for her lymphoma and really hasn't had many of the same side effects. Some hair loss, but she still has her eyebrows and eyelashes. She got up Saturday morning and taught her usual two hour yoga class! Then she met us Sunday for brunch and also walked the 1.5 mile long high line walk way AND BACK! She's pretty amazing! Just a little update on her and to say thanks again for all the support!! :bunchflowers:
Positively amazing, and positive for her. Hope and healing go hand in hand.
Sending hopeful wishes and strength to all.
hey all you BRAVE WARRIORS......sending each of you incredible folks a BIG butch HUG and a smile....
Saw my surgical oncologist today for my 2 month Post Op F/U! He is very pleased with my "total recovery" but with the continued weight loss and loss of appetite.... will be getting blood work and scans with contrast done in next couple months...I am not worried.....
I lost another 10 lbs since I last saw him 3.5 weeks ago. and now have lost 50 lbs max. since November. The weight loss is great for me, as I was a big gal anyway....so no worries just is NOT a "diet" to lose it by...
I am a BRAVE WARRIOR and I will walk with determination & pride and win .....yes I WILL!
Rockinonahigh
02-07-2012, 05:50 PM
My friend you have had a double major surgery so I would think it takes a lot out of your body to heal it self,we both know it dosent happen over night.Carry on with what you are doing,it will all work out.
pynkkameleon
02-07-2012, 06:37 PM
I spent the better portion of my day reading every single post in this thread. I have laughed, cried, empathized, grieved and have been touched by each and every one of you.
I'm a member of the club none of us ever wanted to join too. I was diagnosed in 2009 with Breast Cancer. Lost the boobs, did chemo, did rads, got new foobs, lost those, got another set of foobs and lost again. Apparently boobs don't like me. Fine, cuz I don't really like them either too much right now. It's going to be an adjustment since nearly every shirt I own was designed to show off my lovely bit of cleavage but what can I do but roll with it.
I don't have time to say much more at the moment but will try to pop in later for a more proper introduction. Nurse will be here in a few minutes to change the dressing on my PICC line, kids are wanting dinner etc.. but I did want to say that I think you are all AMAZING! All of you supporters, caregivers, loved ones and those battling the beast, stay strong.. and as Clay so wonderfully said.. We are all Brave Warriors!
Vonni:
First off...here ya go....(((((((((((((((((((((((((Vonni)))))))))))))) )).
Secondly, foobs...I love that word...IMHO..those DO NOT a woman's
cleavage" make..it is HOW she wears her top,(ie...does she wear it proudly, wear it beautifully) and "work it" like a runway MODEL she is... how much "skin" she decides to show, AND how she carries herself....along with her heart and her spirit! THAT is what I find hawwwttt about her....
WELCOME to our wonderful group here..and make yourself right at home! YOU have your own BRAVE WARRIOR badge here...so wear it proud sister! as you have been doing!
ANY TIME you need to talk, and want to do so privately...I will always make time for you.....as will all the beautiful souls here! YOU will NOT walk this walk alone here!!! WE won't LET you..so with that said...
May you have an awesome support system where you are....may you have peace and calmness in your daily journey, and know I am sending you white light energy..always...place your hand in mine, and any one of us here or better yet....ALL of ours..we march together..and leave NO ONE behind!!! We carry, we push, we pull, we encourage, we support, we cry, we laugh, and we LIVE our lives to the fullest..but we leave NO ONE behind!!! Everyone of us has attributes to offer to others...some of us walk the same journey, some of us walk a different journey, some of us are supporters and caregivers, some of us are family, some of us are friends, BUT WE ALL walk united...for we are BRAVE WARRIORS!
Come on back anytime...pull up a comfy chair, and let us hear how you are doing....FIGHT, honey FIGHT!!!!
I look forward to hearing more of your story and seeing your gorgeously beautiful self in here..so smile, dahlink...we are ALL very Brave Warriors!!! hugs, hugs, and more hugs...Clay
My friend you have had a double major surgery so I would think it takes a lot out of your body to heal it self,we both know it dosent happen over night.Carry on with what you are doing,it will all work out.
hey Mike: THANK YOU my darling buddy! Yea, I have to STOP sometimes and remind myself that just 8 short weeks ago, I was in the OR having double major abdominal surgery...TWO procedures....grin! along with an NG tube for 10 days, AND PPN feedings.for 5 days....grin! Anyway, I know it takes time to recuperate, get all that anesthesia out of your system, and to "heal" from within!
Appreciate you my bud!! Clay
DapperButch
02-07-2012, 08:24 PM
I spent the better portion of my day reading every single post in this thread. I have laughed, cried, empathized, grieved and have been touched by each and every one of you.
I'm a member of the club none of us ever wanted to join too. I was diagnosed in 2009 with Breast Cancer. Lost the boobs, did chemo, did rads, got new foobs, lost those, got another set of foobs and lost again. Apparently boobs don't like me. Fine, cuz I don't really like them either too much right now. It's going to be an adjustment since nearly every shirt I own was designed to show off my lovely bit of cleavage but what can I do but roll with it.
I don't have time to say much more at the moment but will try to pop in later for a more proper introduction. Nurse will be here in a few minutes to change the dressing on my PICC line, kids are wanting dinner etc.. but I did want to say that I think you are all AMAZING! All of you supporters, caregivers, loved ones and those battling the beast, stay strong.. and as Clay so wonderfully said.. We are all Brave Warriors!
Vonni,
Thanks for joining the thread. I'm glad you are here.
JustJo
02-07-2012, 08:30 PM
I spent the better portion of my day reading every single post in this thread. I have laughed, cried, empathized, grieved and have been touched by each and every one of you.
I'm a member of the club none of us ever wanted to join too. I was diagnosed in 2009 with Breast Cancer. Lost the boobs, did chemo, did rads, got new foobs, lost those, got another set of foobs and lost again. Apparently boobs don't like me. Fine, cuz I don't really like them either too much right now. It's going to be an adjustment since nearly every shirt I own was designed to show off my lovely bit of cleavage but what can I do but roll with it.
I don't have time to say much more at the moment but will try to pop in later for a more proper introduction. Nurse will be here in a few minutes to change the dressing on my PICC line, kids are wanting dinner etc.. but I did want to say that I think you are all AMAZING! All of you supporters, caregivers, loved ones and those battling the beast, stay strong.. and as Clay so wonderfully said.. We are all Brave Warriors!
Welcome to the thread Vonni. :rrose: I've received tremendous support and advice here....and hope it serves you as well.
Wishing you all the best...
Rockinonahigh
02-07-2012, 08:39 PM
hey Mike: THANK YOU my darling buddy! Yea, I have to STOP sometimes and remind myself that just 8 short weeks ago, I was in the OR having double major abdominal surgery...TWO procedures....grin! along with an NG tube for 10 days, AND PPN feedings.for 5 days....grin! Anyway, I know it takes time to recuperate, get all that anesthesia out of your system, and to "heal" from within!
Appreciate you my bud!! Clay
Tks bud,no matter how or where we are in this life we all are rowing the same boat,just in a diffrent way.Dont forget we have to meet up in a town in Arkansaw this fall,by time all of the planet folks meet and greet then just plain get to know each other...the place wont be the same...nor will we.
JustJo
02-08-2012, 02:10 PM
Hello all,
It's been awhile since I've posted about mom, but not much has changed. We're in a holding pattern of sorts. She is still doing the (supposedly reduced) chemo, but is finding that it makes her just as sick. The oncologist and surgeon disagree about whether she should continue it or not...and she is leaning towards not.
Basically, she feels fine when not on chemo...very sick when on it...and no one knows whether chemo actually will slow the advance of these punctate lesions or not. In a nutshell...her choice...does she want to feel nauseous and exhausted and take a potential chance at increased time....or feel like herself and take a potential chance at reduced time.
All she knows for sure right now is that she really wants to be home on her own place. I understand that, as it's always been her closest connection and the most important thing in her life. With the mild winter, weather isn't the issue we had anticipated...and she's eating and drinking well, not to mention infinitely stronger and healthier than when she arrived in early December. So....she's going home, a week from Saturday. She'll still have visiting nurse and home health aid a couple times a week, and her best friend will by my spy. We have agreed that if she starts to deteriorate at all, or by next winter at least, she will come back here to Florida again.
Honestly, I'm relieved. The stress of being a caregiver is enormous, exhausting and difficult...even if the previous relationship is good. When the previous relationship is rocky, and the recipient of care is a narcissist....well....suffice to say that I can use the break myself.
I also struggle....so many people want to tell me that I'm a good daughter, or so compassionate and giving, or so brave....and I'm not. Believe me....I'm here to tell you. I am doing this because I must....because I have to live with myself and look in the mirror each day for the rest of my life. I joke about "damn ethics"....but that's what it is....the recognition that the right thing needs to be done even if I hate doing it, even if it exhausts me, and even as I grit my teeth and bite my tongue.
I'm never had cancer myself, but I can only imagine that it is the same for many cancer patients....who get through it one step at a time simply because they must. :rrose:
Hugs,
Jo
DapperButch
02-08-2012, 04:59 PM
Jo, thanks for updating us on your mom. It sounds like her being down here was a very, very good thing for her. It really stabilized her and that is great. It does sound like she really is at a crossroads in terms of her decision. It would be a tough call.
I also struggle....so many people want to tell me that I'm a good daughter, or so compassionate and giving, or so brave....and I'm not. Believe me....I'm here to tell you. I am doing this because I must....because I have to live with myself and look in the mirror each day for the rest of my life. I joke about "damn ethics"....but that's what it is....the recognition that the right thing needs to be done even if I hate doing it, even if it exhausts me, and even as I grit my teeth and bite my tongue.
I'm never had cancer myself, but I can only imagine that it is the same for many cancer patients....who get through it one step at a time simply because they must. :rrose:
Hugs,
Jo
I know exactly what you mean with the whole "brave" part not fitting for you. I actually was going to respond to Clay's post last night <waving at Clay> to tell her that I would prefer she refrain from calling me a "brave warrior". That isn't how I identify. I am just a guy who got cancer and didn't want to die so hy got treatment. Being called a "brave warrior" makes me quite uncomfortable.
So, Clay, I support you in calling yourself whatever, including brave warrior, if that is how you identify, but I am just a guy who did what had to be done. Please stop calling me something I do not identify with, however, please know I appreciate the sentiment. Thanks.
JustJo
02-15-2012, 06:14 PM
Hello all,
Probably time for another update, but please skip this one if you don't want to hear bad news.
We just got the results of my mother's last PET scan and the cancer has metastisized (or however you spell that freakin word) to her liver. They are calling it hyper-metabolic....which basically means growing like a son of a bitch.
Also, several of the punctate lesions have now activated on the outside of her remaining small intestine.
They have said they are "willing to try" very aggressive chemo....but the mild chemo she is on is already making her more sick than she can tolerate, and her weight is already dropping again. The only time she felt well, and was gaining weight, is when she had a break from chemo....so she expects that the very aggressive version would be absolutely intolerable for her.
She has decided to return home as planned on Saturday, to refuse chemo, and to begin working with hospice. She would prefer to live a shorter time, and not feel so sick...and most definitely not to die either in a hospital, or in front of my son.
She has already started getting her affairs in order.
Cancer sucks.
Hello all,
Probably time for another update, but please skip this one if you don't want to hear bad news.
We just got the results of my mother's last PET scan and the cancer has metastisized (or however you spell that freakin word) to her liver. They are calling it hyper-metabolic....which basically means growing like a son of a bitch.
Also, several of the punctate lesions have now activated on the outside of her remaining small intestine.
They have said they are "willing to try" very aggressive chemo....but the mild chemo she is on is already making her more sick than she can tolerate, and her weight is already dropping again. The only time she felt well, and was gaining weight, is when she had a break from chemo....so she expects that the very aggressive version would be absolutely intolerable for her.
She has decided to return home as planned on Saturday, to refuse chemo, and to begin working with hospice. She would prefer to live a shorter time, and not feel so sick...and most definitely not to die either in a hospital, or in front of my son.
She has already started getting her affairs in order.
Cancer sucks.
aww Jo.....BIG HUGS to you and mom!!! She is in my heart & thoughts...as are you!!! Love you, Mom!!!
DapperButch
02-15-2012, 07:01 PM
Oh, gosh, Jo. I am so very, very sorry. I don't even know what you say. Please know I am here if you want to talk.
Tommi
02-15-2012, 07:46 PM
Hello all,
Probably time for another update, but please skip this one if you don't want to hear bad news.
We just got the results of my mother's last PET scan and the cancer has metastisized (or however you spell that freakin word) to her liver. They are calling it hyper-metabolic....which basically means growing like a son of a bitch.
Also, several of the punctate lesions have now activated on the outside of her remaining small intestine.
They have said they are "willing to try" very aggressive chemo....but the mild chemo she is on is already making her more sick than she can tolerate, and her weight is already dropping again. The only time she felt well, and was gaining weight, is when she had a break from chemo....so she expects that the very aggressive version would be absolutely intolerable for her.
She has decided to return home as planned on Saturday, to refuse chemo, and to begin working with hospice. She would prefer to live a shorter time, and not feel so sick...and most definitely not to die either in a hospital, or in front of my son.
She has already started getting her affairs in order.
Cancer sucks.
http://www.karmanos.org/uploaded_pics/hospice-mo-web.jpg
(((((((((((((Jo's Mom))))))))))))))
mustangjeano
02-15-2012, 08:28 PM
Hello all,
Probably time for another update, but please skip this one if you don't want to hear bad news.
We just got the results of my mother's last PET scan and the cancer has metastisized (or however you spell that freakin word) to her liver. They are calling it hyper-metabolic....which basically means growing like a son of a bitch.
Also, several of the punctate lesions have now activated on the outside of her remaining small intestine.
They have said they are "willing to try" very aggressive chemo....but the mild chemo she is on is already making her more sick than she can tolerate, and her weight is already dropping again. The only time she felt well, and was gaining weight, is when she had a break from chemo....so she expects that the very aggressive version would be absolutely intolerable for her.
She has decided to return home as planned on Saturday, to refuse chemo, and to begin working with hospice. She would prefer to live a shorter time, and not feel so sick...and most definitely not to die either in a hospital, or in front of my son.
She has already started getting her affairs in order.
Cancer sucks.
Oh damn Jo, I'm so sorry. I can't think of anything helpful to say other than I will keep you and your Mom in my prayers. We are all here for you.
SweetJane
02-16-2012, 01:01 AM
JustJo, this is always hard news. But it looks like your mom realizes that quality of life is important to her and those around her. We will keep her in prayer...and you as well.
OS Butch
02-16-2012, 12:28 PM
Good morning. I just had the scare of my life and thought I would share it here. Sorry for the long ramble.
Since the age of 40, I have gone every year for a mammogram. It had become routine, something I just did.
10 years ago, my oldest sister was diagnosed with breast cancer; she did the chemo and mastectomy and is a 10 year survivor and going strong.
Last year my youngest sister was diagnosed with breast cancer and is doing well.
Having done this 13 times and having some not so very sensitive technicians, last year I said to the tech “Good morning, are you having a good day?” She looked at me a bit puzzled and said yes. I said “Great, because the last thing I want is someone squishing my boob that is having a bad day!” She laughed and although uncomfortable, it went well.
Last week I went for my routine mammogram. I had the same conversion with the tech and again, it went well. My daughter had come by Monday to pick up her mail and it was a good day. Later that evening, I got a call from her telling me she got my letter from the radiologist. As she read it I stopped hearing a word she was saying after I heard “requiring more testing.” I cried myself to sleep that night.
Tuesday, yes, Valentine’s day, I called my doctor and instructed to call the radiologist for another appointment, I shouldn’t need another prescription. I called the center and was told the next date would be Feb 29…..That was 15 days away! I said to the lady, I have had 2 sisters with breast cancer and that seems too long can they call me if there is a cancellation and get in sooner? She said she is unable to do that, but she could transfer me to the local office and I could check with them.
She transferred me to the actual place I had my testing. I gave my name and other information. She said “Can you come in at 1pm today?” My heart just about stopped as I said yes. Even though I got an early time, the immediate response was of urgency it seemed and I was terrified.
I arrived early to the center, and waited to be called. I heard my name and through those doors I went. I had my little conversation with the tech and she laughed. She took 1 x-ray of my right breast and 3 of the left. She took me to a waiting room, still in the gown in case there needed to be more x-rays after the doctor read them. As I sat in the waiting room, there was a tv playing an infomercial on Tomosynthesis 3D imaging. After what seemed forever, the tech came and got me for another x-ray….omgoodness. I asked about the Tomo and she said that is what we are doing. She further explained that it is a new technology and insurance companies are not paying for it yet, but the Doctor here said to go ahead and do it.
Back to the room I went and waited. The tech finally came back and said I could get dressed and the doctor would be in to talk to me……..more waiting.
Finally he arrived and said that everything was fine and negative. Shadows of the 2d were not there on the 3d. A huge sigh of relief!
I suggest that if the new Tomosynthesis 3D imaging is available in your area, it is well worth the out of pocket expensive to alleviate false positive reading and going through what I experienced! Hopefully, the insurance companies will start covering this new machine…. it still squishes the boob, but it takes 52 shots in a pass so the doctor is able to see more!
OSB
Countyfem
02-16-2012, 12:52 PM
Sending everyone well wishes
JustJo so sorry for this news my prayers are with you and your family
OS glad to hear your news was good, adding you and your family to my prayers
Clay I have a feeling everything will be good for you, you beat it once and if need be you can do it again!
Take care everyone keep your spirits high and know there are folks that keep you in their thoughts and prayers and support you.
DapperButch
02-16-2012, 05:07 PM
Good morning. I just had the scare of my life and thought I would share it here. Sorry for the long ramble.
Since the age of 40, I have gone every year for a mammogram. It had become routine, something I just did.
10 years ago, my oldest sister was diagnosed with breast cancer; she did the chemo and mastectomy and is a 10 year survivor and going strong.
Last year my youngest sister was diagnosed with breast cancer and is doing well.
Having done this 13 times and having some not so very sensitive technicians, last year I said to the tech “Good morning, are you having a good day?” She looked at me a bit puzzled and said yes. I said “Great, because the last thing I want is someone squishing my boob that is having a bad day!” She laughed and although uncomfortable, it went well.
Last week I went for my routine mammogram. I had the same conversion with the tech and again, it went well. My daughter had come by Monday to pick up her mail and it was a good day. Later that evening, I got a call from her telling me she got my letter from the radiologist. As she read it I stopped hearing a word she was saying after I heard “requiring more testing.” I cried myself to sleep that night.
Tuesday, yes, Valentine’s day, I called my doctor and instructed to call the radiologist for another appointment, I shouldn’t need another prescription. I called the center and was told the next date would be Feb 29…..That was 15 days away! I said to the lady, I have had 2 sisters with breast cancer and that seems too long can they call me if there is a cancellation and get in sooner? She said she is unable to do that, but she could transfer me to the local office and I could check with them.
She transferred me to the actual place I had my testing. I gave my name and other information. She said “Can you come in at 1pm today?” My heart just about stopped as I said yes. Even though I got an early time, the immediate response was of urgency it seemed and I was terrified.
I arrived early to the center, and waited to be called. I heard my name and through those doors I went. I had my little conversation with the tech and she laughed. She took 1 x-ray of my right breast and 3 of the left. She took me to a waiting room, still in the gown in case there needed to be more x-rays after the doctor read them. As I sat in the waiting room, there was a tv playing an infomercial on Tomosynthesis 3D imaging. After what seemed forever, the tech came and got me for another x-ray….omgoodness. I asked about the Tomo and she said that is what we are doing. She further explained that it is a new technology and insurance companies are not paying for it yet, but the Doctor here said to go ahead and do it.
Back to the room I went and waited. The tech finally came back and said I could get dressed and the doctor would be in to talk to me……..more waiting.
Finally he arrived and said that everything was fine and negative. Shadows of the 2d were not there on the 3d. A huge sigh of relief!
I suggest that if the new Tomosynthesis 3D imaging is available in your area, it is well worth the out of pocket expensive to alleviate false positive reading and going through what I experienced! Hopefully, the insurance companies will start covering this new machine…. it still squishes the boob, but it takes 52 shots in a pass so the doctor is able to see more!
OSB
OS,
Thank you for sharing your story with us. I am glad that it had a happy ending! I can see why you would have been so nervous wiht two sisters with breast cancer.
OS Butch
02-16-2012, 08:26 PM
OS,
Thank you for sharing your story with us. I am glad that it had a happy ending! I can see why you would have been so nervous wiht two sisters with breast cancer.
It definitely was a tough day. I immediately sent a text to sister number 3 to get hers scheduled along with our mom.....and pay the $50 to have the Tomo!
pynkkameleon
02-17-2012, 03:21 AM
There really are no words to easy the pain, frustration and heartbreak you are going through right now. So from me you get a big (((((((((((JustJo and family))))))))) and a reminder to just keep reaching out for support to get you through this terrible time period. Despite what you say, in my own opinion, you ARE strong and amazing. If ever you need someone to talk to... vent, cry, laugh. you name it, I am here for you as well. A stranger I may be to you, but I think that's a formality that we all get to bypass when our lives are all mutually touched by Cancer.
Thinking of you
pynkkameleon
02-17-2012, 11:45 AM
OSB,
That WAS quite the scare for you. I'm so happy to hear that it turned out to be negative. Obviously, because of your family history, you have to stay diligent about being checked, which it seems you are. So many people aren't and I know of many (Butches in particular) who don't even do self checks; let alone routine mammograms. Has your family had any of the genetic testing done? If you haven't, once again because of your sisters, you shouldn't have to jump through the typical bunch of hoops to have the testing done. It would at least give you some sort of idea of what your own risk is and that of your daughter as well.
I'm so happy to hear that your sisters are both doing well. I am sad though that your family has been so deeply impacted by this disease. If you haven't already, I think you should all go out and celebrate your negative tests!
Wishing you all well and thank you for sharing. Hearing the positive stories are nothing short of a gift for many of us.
Big hugs!
pynkkameleon
02-17-2012, 12:38 PM
I'm just a posting fool this morning. This time I am asking for prayers, good vibes and positive thoughts for myself and my mother.
I'll start with Mom. She was dx last week with a very large abdominal aortic aneurysm. It's over 7 cm as of yesterday. Last week it was 6.3. She is scheduled for open repair surgery on the 29th.. Personally, I wish it were sooner but because she's a heavy smoker, they want her to have at least a week or two without a cigarette before they cut her open. At first she refused the surgery but once they told her it would be fatal if she doesn't have it, she changed her tune. She's only 61. Way too young to give up and wait for the inevitable to happen.
As for me. I had my gallbladder removed yesterday. No stones located but the lil bugger was adhered to my ovary and appendix. That explains much of my pain right there. I'm up and walking around today but it sure does feel like someone kicked me in the belly with a pair of steel toe boots. Ouch! On Tuesday, I go in for two spinal MRI's. My physician is concerned that I may have mets in my spine. I'm not overly stressed but of course I still have that little bit of nagging fear that goes along with every one of these tests we all get thrown at us. I was officially diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy in both of my feet this past Tuesday. Can't feel hot or cold in either one of them. It's in my hands too but not as bad as the feet; although there may be an indication that one hand may need surgery to repair the trigger finger that I have more recently developed. I also have achilles tendonitis that they believe is also related to the chemo. Next week I will be undergoing testing for Lupus, B12 deficiency, MS, diabetes and whatever else she comes up with.
I am happily soliciting and accepting any and all positive thoughts and healing energy that can be thrown our way with a great big thank in advance.
I sure do miss those days when life was boring and any chaos that occurred, I generally had control over. I don't care so much for this "new normal".
Many hugs to all!
((((((((((((((((((((((((Vonni & Mom)))))))))))))))))) consider it done..you both are in my thoughts and prayers...sending white light and warm energies your way!! Keep those positive thoughts...know you are among lovng and kind people. Big hugs...Clay
JustJo
02-17-2012, 01:44 PM
Sending you big hugs Vonni...for you and your Mom. :rrose:
pynkkameleon
02-24-2012, 02:59 PM
Thank you for the good thoughts! Mom's surgery is on Wednesday. She's scared but playing the "it's no big deal" card. I can relate. I've played that card too when I was half scared out of my wits. The aneurysm was even larger on last weeks scan (7cm) but the Doc feels confident that they can repair it and Mom really likes this doctor, which is always an added bonus.
I got the GB out and am healing just fine. Doctor couldn't couldn't find a thing wrong with it other than the fact it "stopped" working. Well that and that it was adhered to my appendix which was in turn adhered to an ovary. Go figure? Nothing surprises me anymore as far as this body is concerned. I had a couple of spinal MRI's earlier this week. I have to go back again for another next week to look at a 14mm lesion located on my T-Spine. Keeping all the parts crossed that it isn't "that" and is just a benign nuisance. In the meantime, I've decided not to think too much about it and spend the weekend watching movies, eating naughty food, laughing all I can and pretty much doing whatever I feel like rather than what I should be doing. We all need a break from time to time I think.
The board has been quiet. Hopefully that means everyone is doing well and getting ready to enjoy their own relaxed and stress free weekend. Thinking of you all and sending out big hugs!
mustangjeano
02-25-2012, 01:36 AM
I'm just a posting fool this morning. This time I am asking for prayers, good vibes and positive thoughts for myself and my mother.
I'll start with Mom. She was dx last week with a very large abdominal aortic aneurysm. It's over 7 cm as of yesterday. Last week it was 6.3. She is scheduled for open repair surgery on the 29th.. Personally, I wish it were sooner but because she's a heavy smoker, they want her to have at least a week or two without a cigarette before they cut her open. At first she refused the surgery but once they told her it would be fatal if she doesn't have it, she changed her tune. She's only 61. Way too young to give up and wait for the inevitable to happen.
As for me. I had my gallbladder removed yesterday. No stones located but the lil bugger was adhered to my ovary and appendix. That explains much of my pain right there. I'm up and walking around today but it sure does feel like someone kicked me in the belly with a pair of steel toe boots. Ouch! On Tuesday, I go in for two spinal MRI's. My physician is concerned that I may have mets in my spine. I'm not overly stressed but of course I still have that little bit of nagging fear that goes along with every one of these tests we all get thrown at us. I was officially diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy in both of my feet this past Tuesday. Can't feel hot or cold in either one of them. It's in my hands too but not as bad as the feet; although there may be an indication that one hand may need surgery to repair the trigger finger that I have more recently developed. I also have achilles tendonitis that they believe is also related to the chemo. Next week I will be undergoing testing for Lupus, B12 deficiency, MS, diabetes and whatever else she comes up with.
I am happily soliciting and accepting any and all positive thoughts and healing energy that can be thrown our way with a great big thank in advance.
I sure do miss those days when life was boring and any chaos that occurred, I generally had control over. I don't care so much for this "new normal".
Many hugs to all!
Vonni, Sending healing energy and prayers to you and your Mom.
JustJo
03-10-2012, 12:46 PM
Hello everyone,
Talked to mom yesterday. She's glad to be home, but finding herself exhausted and unable to do much of anything. She's still having trouble eating, as well as much nausea. They're increasing her TPN again....from 12 hours on/ 12 off to 16 on / 8 off. She says her weight is stable....but I have my doubts.
The lesions on her liver are progressing rapidly and the oncologist wants her to begin an entirely new kind of chemo with drugs she has never been on before. His summary was that her body might be able to tolerate it and, if it can, the chemo might put the liver lesions into remission.
That feels like a lot of "mights" to me, but there are no other alternatives. If this chemo doesn't work, or if she refuses it, then she has 4 to 8 months left. This is the first time they've given her a specific number. She has decided to try it in hopes that different drugs will be more tolerable, but isn't counting on it given her experience with chemo so far.
She talking to realtors about listing her house for sale, meeting with her executor, donating odds and ends, cleaning out drawers and closets, and basically getting things squared away.
I've reiterated my offer for her to come back here, whenever she wants and for as long as she wants, including to the end. I know it means a lot to her to have the offer, but I have the feeling she won't be taking me up on it. She doesn't want Rooster to see her at the end.
I keep reminding myself that she's lived longer than anyone expected several times....after all, the first time they told her she didn't have long was 42 years ago. She defied everyone's expectations then, and again 8 years ago, and again when she survived this latest surgery. Unfortunately 50+ years of Crohn's disease takes an incredible toll on the body.
DapperButch
03-10-2012, 06:09 PM
Hi, Jo. I have been wondering how things were going, so I am glad that you posted.
I am sorry that she is not doing especially well. But, I am glad that she had the opportunity to spend some time with you and Rooster before the end. No doubt she found it to be very special.
Take care and remember that I am around if you need support.
JustJo
03-15-2012, 06:22 PM
Sooooo....life changes in an instant.
I got a call a couple days ago from a friend of my mother, saying mom was on her way to the hospital.
She was admitted and has been there a couple days....dehydrated, electrolytes all out of whack, and an unidentified mass in the digestive system that isn't allowing her to absorb anything (food or liquid) taken by mouth.
Right now she has a nose tube in to try to clear whatever blockage is there...they're doing every kind of test to identify what the heck is going on...and she sounds pretty much awful.
I had a long talk with Rooster, and we agreed that she needs to come back here once the hospital lets her go....pretty much whether she wants to or not.
She and I had that conversation this evening and she agrees. There is a part of her that still would like to be home at her own house for the summer....but I'm not sure about that.
Now we wait and see when they will let her go and consider her fit to travel.
DapperButch
03-15-2012, 06:32 PM
Jo,
I'm sorry your mom isn't doing well. That nose tube is a bitch, but is necessary when you have an obstruction of any sort. Please know you are in my thoughts.
mustangjeano
03-15-2012, 08:39 PM
Hi Jo
Thanks for keeping us updated. I wish there was something more I could do beyond sending prayers and energy to you and your Mom. Please write us when you can. Jean
Heavenleahangel
03-16-2012, 04:35 AM
Just stopping by to share the news that I won't be taking another round of the chemo drugs! :cheer: The doctors are pleased with the last rounds for now. My kidneys did not like filtering the drug I was on as it is. Thank you everyone who continues to send me good thoughts, prayers and healing light. It really means a lot to me and Jacob, too. He wants to see his "Mudda" feeling better so we can ride bikes. (Poor kid doesn't realize I havn't ridden a bike in years! My first attempt should land on youtube! I will let ya know!)
DapperButch
03-16-2012, 05:24 AM
Just stopping by to share the news that I won't be taking another round of the chemo drugs! :cheer: The doctors are pleased with the last rounds for now. My kidneys did not like filtering the drug I was on as it is. Thank you everyone who continues to send me good thoughts, prayers and healing light. It really means a lot to me and Jacob, too. He wants to see his "Mudda" feeling better so we can ride bikes. (Poor kid doesn't realize I havn't ridden a bike in years! My first attempt should land on youtube! I will let ya know!)
Hey, Great! This is fantastic! Congrats!!!!!
Awesome news, my friend!!! Enjoy Jacob and the bike rides..and playing in the dirt!! Big hugs to you both. This is incredible news......Clay
mustangjeano
03-16-2012, 07:08 PM
Just stopping by to share the news that I won't be taking another round of the chemo drugs! :cheer: The doctors are pleased with the last rounds for now. My kidneys did not like filtering the drug I was on as it is. Thank you everyone who continues to send me good thoughts, prayers and healing light. It really means a lot to me and Jacob, too. He wants to see his "Mudda" feeling better so we can ride bikes. (Poor kid doesn't realize I havn't ridden a bike in years! My first attempt should land on youtube! I will let ya know!)
This is great news. Thanks for sharing with us. I know Jacob will enjoy having his Mom feeling better. Jean
JustJo
03-21-2012, 07:35 AM
Hello all :rrose:
Mom got a stomach tube put in yesterday. The plus side is that it will replace the PIC line that has given her such problems and make it easier to clear the recurring blockages that she's getting...the down side is, well, that it's a stomach tube....so one more port, one more (minor) surgery, and one more thing that is depressing the hell out of her.
They delayed the new chemo (for the liver lesions) until they deal with this complication...and no word yet on when that starts again, or if. She is feeling like the whole thing is hopeless, and all she wants is to go home again and get her affairs in order, ship things to my sister and me, sell her house....and then see what's next.
I keep reiterating my open invitation to come here for whatever period of time she wants, up to and including the end, but she has very mixed feelings. Honestly, she is more attached to her house and her land than she is to family....and would rather be there as long as she can even if it ends up shortening her life.
Her friends are struggling with this as much as I am....but I find myself getting so impatient and frustrated. One called me yesterday at 3 p.m. and talked for an hour and a half....all upset and sad and crying. She was offering help, but also obviously feeling the need to talk about and deal with her own sadness. Part of me understood and was there with her, and part of me was angry that she would do that in the middle of my work day, when I needed to be working, and then upset me so much in the process that I never did get back to it....and had to regroup myself so I could go be there for my son. Before I could even manage that, another called to basically do the same thing.
Honestly, part of me wants to just lash out and scream....I am struggling too. Not only with my mother, but with my finances (now with 2 mortgages and 1 income and all the credit obligations I ran up since we moved), with the house (where I have had to be a plumber myself twice....and now have to find about $200 to have the washing machine fixed), just to keep up with the housework, the animal care, the meals....all of the stuff needed in a house this large, which I never would have bought for just myself and my son. Diabetic fatigue hits about 4 p.m. and I feel like I could sleep for a year....but instead I have to keep going, and going, and going.
Yes, I know....I'm fortunate that I have a good job with people who are totally supportive of what I'm going through. I'm fortunate that I have a wonderful, happy, healthy, undamaged son....far more than one of my old friends can now say. I'm fortunate that my own health is stable because of my efforts (and sheer luck, I'm sure). I'm fortunate that I have people in my life who love me and care about me.
It could be worse. And I know I have some help on the way. But fuck....couldn't they work this out with each other up there? Do they all have to dump their stuff in my lap too?
JustJo
03-21-2012, 04:31 PM
Hello all :rrose:
Mom got a stomach tube put in yesterday. The plus side is that it will replace the PIC line that has given her such problems and make it easier to clear the recurring blockages that she's getting...the down side is, well, that it's a stomach tube....so one more port, one more (minor) surgery, and one more thing that is depressing the hell out of her.
Ugh...so many things have been discussed that she and I BOTH got this wrong. It is a stomach tube, but it is located between the stomach and what's left of the small intestine, and is to control outgoing rather than incoming.
Evidently it will help them clear blockages, and also allow her to cirucumvent the intestine entirely (at will) when she is feeling discomfort.
So...now she is hooked up to 3 bags....TPN in through the PIC line, the original ostomy bag and now the new one....that I don't even know what to call.
Her TPN is increased to about 20 hours a day, and she will never be off of it.
She is feeling like a monster....with every step of food intake and digestion being controlled by valves and clamps and bags and needles.
On the plus side, this blockage was cleared and she is no longer having any pain.
The chemo will start later this week...since the latest scan shows that the liver lesions are now 11 mm and 8 mm, respectively....when they were so small they didn't even show on a scan a few months ago.
Heavenleahangel
03-21-2012, 05:08 PM
This is great news. Thanks for sharing with us. I know Jacob will enjoy having his Mom feeling better. Jean
You are sooo right, Jean! I sat on the porch while Jacob rode his bike and he was happy as a little lark! The weather here has been wonderful! I officially can't put any weight on my foot in order for the bones to heal, but given the alternative of *dying*, I would say I am pretty darn blessed! Thank you everyone for the care, concern and best wishes. They really make me smile...
DapperButch
03-21-2012, 05:10 PM
Ugh...so many things have been discussed that she and I BOTH got this wrong. It is a stomach tube, but it is located between the stomach and what's left of the small intestine, and is to control outgoing rather than incoming.
Evidently it will help them clear blockages, and also allow her to cirucumvent the intestine entirely (at will) when she is feeling discomfort.
So...now she is hooked up to 3 bags....TPN in through the PIC line, the original ostomy bag and now the new one....that I don't even know what to call.
Her TPN is increased to about 20 hours a day, and she will never be off of it.
She is feeling like a monster....with every step of food intake and digestion being controlled by valves and clamps and bags and needles.
On the plus side, this blockage was cleared and she is no longer having any pain.
The chemo will start later this week...since the latest scan shows that the liver lesions are now 11 mm and 8 mm, respectively....when they were so small they didn't even show on a scan a few months ago.
Oh, Jo this so sucks. I feel so terrible for her.
It is this kind of stuff that worries me (about me). Yes, the CAT scan I had a month ago said there were no tumors. This was really meaningless to me due to the above. That is what my eating (most often successfully), vegan is all about. The hope is that eating in this way (plus doing some other things), will make my body less hospitable to cancer. The hope is that those small tumors don't grow. I am aware, however, that no matter what I do, it could still happen. Additionally, I am aware that there are people who have undetectable tumors that never grow no matter how they eat or what their lifestyle.
You remain in my thoughts, Jo.
JustJo
03-21-2012, 05:16 PM
Oh, Jo this so sucks. I feel so terrible for her.
It is this kind of stuff that worries me (about me). Yes, the CAT scan I had a month ago said there were no tumors. This was really meaningless to me due to the above. That is what my eating (most often successfully), vegan is all about. The hope is that eating in this way (plus doing some other things), will make my body less hospitable to cancer. The hope is that those small tumors don't grow. I am aware, however, that no matter what I do, it could still happen. Additionally, I am aware that there are people who have undetectable tumors that never grow no matter how they eat or what their lifestyle.
You remain in my thoughts, Jo.
Thank you Dapper. :rrose:
I completely hear what you're saying...and it's scary as hell.
The other part of the story though is that my mother has been a Crohn's patient for 50 years....lived on butter, bacon, and....when she was younger....Coke, donuts and chips.
She became nutrition conscious very late in life....and never took good, regular care of her Crohn's disease....starting and stopping medications randomly, skipping checkups and tests, even taking veternarian grade prednisone at one point for over a year because she was "sick of doctors."
As harsh as it sounds, I think she didn't help herself any. By contrast, you're taking the right steps...eating right, supplements, taking care of your health in general...and trust that will make a difference.
Hugs,
Jo
DapperButch
03-21-2012, 05:28 PM
Thank you Dapper. :rrose:
I completely hear what you're saying...and it's scary as hell.
The other part of the story though is that my mother has been a Crohn's patient for 50 years....lived on butter, bacon, and....when she was younger....Coke, donuts and chips.
She became nutrition conscious very late in life....and never took good, regular care of her Crohn's disease....starting and stopping medications randomly, skipping checkups and tests, even taking veternarian grade prednisone at one point for over a year because she was "sick of doctors."
As harsh as it sounds, I think she didn't help herself any. By contrast, you're taking the right steps...eating right, supplements, taking care of your health in general...and trust that will make a difference.
Hugs,
Jo
Thanks for saying this, Jo. Recently, I have been struggling with seeing the usefulness of not eating the food (read: meat, cheese), that I love. You sharing the part of the story about your mom's tumors originally not showing up, only to show up later reminds me as to why I am doing this. Thank you. (f)
(As an aside, I am aware that not everyone agrees with my belief that eating vegan+fish, helps fight/keep away cancer. No offense/disrespect meant to those who sees things differently.).
Leigh
03-21-2012, 06:24 PM
I just wanted to show my support for everyone here; I've helped take care of 3 family members in the past who had cancer (all 3 died unfortunately) but I have seen and experienced how hard it can be to care for someone who is ill ~ I offer an ear to listen and a shoulder to lean on if anyone ever needs it :-)
midwest chick
03-22-2012, 10:42 PM
Just a reminder: Please make sure that your younger family members are educated about gardasill, and the damage HPV can wreck--my niece, Meaganne, will be moving on from this world in the next 24-48 hours due to cervical cancer from HPV, she is 23 years old.
JustJo: I think the term you were looking for is gastric drain--it is frequently placed in the jejunum, but is sometimes placed in the stomach or duodenum. Placement in the areas below the stomach allow for drainage of bile salts, which can ease nausea, vomiting, and irritation.
Just an update on the claybaby....saw my PCP Internist last week, who ordered a barrage of labs and stool for hemoccult. I have had malaise & fatigue for several weeks, all I want to do is sleep, taking frequent naps, and am exhausted just taking a shower. I am still losing weight, and my appetite sucks except for CRAVING avocados, asparagus, spinach, and Greek Yogurt. I could LIVE on all of those things...seriously...esp. the Greek Yogurt. I LOVE the honey one best of all.
My labs were all okay...except, my hgb. (hemoglobin), hct. (hematocrit), and MCHC are all low. My hgb. is 9.2 (was 11.2) My Transferritin is okay but the % sat. is low and B12 is way ow. SOOOOOO...I am now on a PreNatal Vitamin (these are high in iron) and are for pregnant ladies....grins. I KNEW it...my femme done knocked me up..so she says...I find that funny because I was menopausal and I had a complete hystero in December.....I am on a regimen of B12 shots every week for 4 weeks (3 to go) and then monthly for life my doc says..
I am due new scans and labs in May....with my surgical oncologist.
I am still just so very tired, I yawn frequently, and feel so sluggish. I know I had some major, major (double major abd sugeries) during the 6 hrs period in December...and am still re couping from it..but come on now..I hate feeling sluggish and tired all the time....
Anyway, just wanted to update all of you...
Jo...hugs to you and Rooster..and for your mom.
Take care everyone....my GF is coming to town tomorrow for the weekend, then I am going back to her place for a few days, and taking a few days to hang with my BFF who lives near my GF...I can't wait...I miss my BFF!!!I heart you all....hugs..Clay
ohhh, Midwest, I am so very sorry. My GF & I send you a big hug and our wishes for energy and peace....Yes, you are correct..everyone needs to think about this for the younger generation...and consider the vaccine. Thanks for posting this.Just a reminder: Please make sure that your younger family members are educated about gardasill, and the damage HPV can wreck--my niece, Meaganne, will be moving on from this world in the next 24-48 hours due to cervical cancer from HPV, she is 23 years old.
JustJo: I think the term you were looking for is gastric drain--it is frequently placed in the jejunum, but is sometimes placed in the stomach or duodenum. Placement in the areas below the stomach allow for drainage of bile salts, which can ease nausea, vomiting, and irritation.
midwest chick
03-23-2012, 03:51 AM
ohhh, Midwest, I am so very sorry. My GF & I send you a big hug and our wishes for energy and peace....Yes, you are correct..everyone needs to think about this for the younger generation...and consider the vaccine. Thanks for posting this.
Thank you....gardasill is not administered to women over 30, so it's important to get the series prior to that...forgot to mention it earlier.
JustJo
03-27-2012, 08:33 AM
I know you all have to be so sick of hearing from me :(
Yesterday evening I had a long talk with my mother, who was having a total meltdown. It was incredibly stressful trying to be there for her as she was raging and crying and scared and all of the other stuff that goes along with knowing your days are numbered and that you're in pain.
Anyway....trying to figure out next steps...and spoke to the doctor this morning. She has 2 months "if we're lucky." She cannot go home, period. She cannot eat food, period. She will have horrible pain from here on out and they will do their best to help control it, period.
Fuck.
They believe they can get her off the IV pain meds, which she is hitting every 15 minutes religiously, and onto oral and patches for pain. They believe they can get her strong enough to fly down to me.
And then it's on me, period.
I have a call in to hospice.
This also means I get to have my crazy, fucked up narcissist of a sister in my house so that she can say her "devoted daughter and where's my share of the loot?" goodbyes.
I am angry, upset and just feel sick myself.
So...welcome to 50. First task of the next half century....help your momma die.
Fuck.
mustangjeano
03-27-2012, 02:14 PM
I know you all have to be so sick of hearing from me :(
Yesterday evening I had a long talk with my mother, who was having a total meltdown. It was incredibly stressful trying to be there for her as she was raging and crying and scared and all of the other stuff that goes along with knowing your days are numbered and that you're in pain.
Anyway....trying to figure out next steps...and spoke to the doctor this morning. She has 2 months "if we're lucky." She cannot go home, period. She cannot eat food, period. She will have horrible pain from here on out and they will do their best to help control it, period.
Fuck.
They believe they can get her off the IV pain meds, which she is hitting every 15 minutes religiously, and onto oral and patches for pain. They believe they can get her strong enough to fly down to me.
And then it's on me, period.
I have a call in to hospice.
This also means I get to have my crazy, fucked up narcissist of a sister in my house so that she can say her "devoted daughter and where's my share of the loot?" goodbyes.
I am angry, upset and just feel sick myself.
So...welcome to 50. First task of the next half century....help your momma die.
Fuck.
Jo, my heart goes out to you and your Mom. I can certainly understand how she wants to stay in her home and not be dependant on anyone else but that just isn't an option at this point. I salute you for being willing to be there for her at this most difficult time and have her at home with you. This will probably be the toughest thing you have ever done and yet I bet that you will be glad that you were there for her. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Jean
DapperButch
03-27-2012, 03:31 PM
I know you all have to be so sick of hearing from me :(
Yesterday evening I had a long talk with my mother, who was having a total meltdown. It was incredibly stressful trying to be there for her as she was raging and crying and scared and all of the other stuff that goes along with knowing your days are numbered and that you're in pain.
Anyway....trying to figure out next steps...and spoke to the doctor this morning. She has 2 months "if we're lucky." She cannot go home, period. She cannot eat food, period. She will have horrible pain from here on out and they will do their best to help control it, period.
Fuck.
They believe they can get her off the IV pain meds, which she is hitting every 15 minutes religiously, and onto oral and patches for pain. They believe they can get her strong enough to fly down to me.
And then it's on me, period.
I have a call in to hospice.
This also means I get to have my crazy, fucked up narcissist of a sister in my house so that she can say her "devoted daughter and where's my share of the loot?" goodbyes.
I am angry, upset and just feel sick myself.
So...welcome to 50. First task of the next half century....help your momma die.
Fuck.
I'm very, very sorry, my friend. Know I will be thinking of you and I am around if you want to talk.
Tommi
03-27-2012, 06:44 PM
Hey Jo,
Hope you are okay today. This is the crises we never see coming, and it drags, yet drowns out all sound and reality with the rush of knowing the outcome.
This time next year, the spring flowers will start to bloom , the color will come back into your landscape, and your Mom will not be hurting and suffering.
and ...as for your sister, the drama of her trauama will be different next year, and you can send her Birthday and Holiday cards, and not hear the Me Me Me what about wonderful me.
Well, if you want to get away to Disneyland , just call. :) :hangloose:
Keep us posted Jo
Jo:
Please know Miss Scarlett * I are holding you & mom, Rooster, & Snack...close in our hearts..and we send you white light energies and peace...and we walk this journey with you, in spirit!!
Having walked this one in 1998 for 3 months with my own mom, I can empathize with you..on so many levels...and no words, nothing can ever prepare one for this kind of journey...BUT somewhere, deep down, inside, are some incredibly amazing "reserves" of strength, patience, understanding, and peace that will come to you when you need them most!! Believe in this journey that there is some amazing bonding that will occur..and the time spent will be priceless..
What helped me most was I was holding my mom, whispering in her ear, giving her permission to go when she was ready, assuring her I would be okay, and to ascend when she was ready to go...as most folks do when they are transcending! The beauty for me was that I came into this world in her arms, and she left this world in mine.....a full circle we shared...completely rounded...and THAT is where my peace came from..we began and ended in one another's arms....and we saw archangel Michael just before she transcended, so he helped her to transition.
My mom was diagnosed with stage IV liver/lung/bone cancer..she lived 3 months! I lived in her home and gave her every detail of her care 24/7as she had asked for me...I was a Nurse for 21 years!!
Anyway, this is about YOU and your heart now...I am with you, Jo..my friend!!! May you, Rooster, and Snack be ever closer and know Miss Scarlett & I send you much love, prayers, and support!! Hug your mom also...:). ClayI know you all have to be so sick of hearing from me :(
Yesterday evening I had a long talk with my mother, who was having a total meltdown. It was incredibly stressful trying to be there for her as she was raging and crying and scared and all of the other stuff that goes along with knowing your days are numbered and that you're in pain.
Anyway....trying to figure out next steps...and spoke to the doctor this morning. She has 2 months "if we're lucky." She cannot go home, period. She cannot eat food, period. She will have horrible pain from here on out and they will do their best to help control it, period.
Fuck.
They believe they can get her off the IV pain meds, which she is hitting every 15 minutes religiously, and onto oral and patches for pain. They believe they can get her strong enough to fly down to me.
And then it's on me, period.
I have a call in to hospice.
This also means I get to have my crazy, fucked up narcissist of a sister in my house so that she can say her "devoted daughter and where's my share of the loot?" goodbyes.
I am angry, upset and just feel sick myself.
So...welcome to 50. First task of the next half century....help your momma die.
Fuck.
SweetJane
04-01-2012, 10:26 PM
JustJo,
This is tough. I had to do that with my mother when I was 21. I went home to take care of some of her needs and missed her passing. She had wanted someone to be there and I wasn't. I carried that guilt for a long time.
Be with your momma while you can. Be strong for her.
When it is done, you can have your own meltdown.
Know that we will be here for you through it all.
Our prayers are with you.
Miss Scarlett
04-02-2012, 04:14 AM
(((((Jo))))) Honey, i am so sorry to read this...yes, i've been there too and i wish i had some magic words to make this easier for you...
my Mom died from Pancreatic Cancer in 2007, She never talked with me about what she was feeling...this haunted me earlier this year...i think she was trying to avoid a similar meltdown to the one your mom had. Still not knowing how she was feeling bothered me. No one understands how this feels until they've walked this painful and frightening path...
There was nothing that could be done for Mom and i felt so helpless. She made me promise i'd help her die if she ever got to the point where she couldn't take it any more. Hospice was simply amazing for us and i hope they will be the same for your mom.
And NO i am certainly NOT sick of hearing you post about your mom...you have to talk about this...and i'm here if you need a shoulder or an ear...
Like Clay said, we're holding you close...sending much love, light, energy and prayers to you, your mom, your family and Snack...
I know you all have to be so sick of hearing from me :(
Yesterday evening I had a long talk with my mother, who was having a total meltdown. It was incredibly stressful trying to be there for her as she was raging and crying and scared and all of the other stuff that goes along with knowing your days are numbered and that you're in pain.
Anyway....trying to figure out next steps...and spoke to the doctor this morning. She has 2 months "if we're lucky." She cannot go home, period. She cannot eat food, period. She will have horrible pain from here on out and they will do their best to help control it, period.
Fuck.
They believe they can get her off the IV pain meds, which she is hitting every 15 minutes religiously, and onto oral and patches for pain. They believe they can get her strong enough to fly down to me.
And then it's on me, period.
I have a call in to hospice.
This also means I get to have my crazy, fucked up narcissist of a sister in my house so that she can say her "devoted daughter and where's my share of the loot?" goodbyes.
I am angry, upset and just feel sick myself.
So...welcome to 50. First task of the next half century....help your momma die.
Fuck.
JustJo
04-02-2012, 08:21 PM
Thank you so much everyone. :rrose:
Mom will not be able to go home with hospice care after all. The hospital room has been blocked to all but family, her roommate has been moved, and my sister is spending the night in the other bed for tonight.
They have basically said their goodbyes....mom knows her affairs are all in order....and she is leaving us very soon.
I have believed for some weeks that she was holding on for two things....to have decisions resolved and confirmed about her things and her property....and to see my sister.
Both of those have been accomplished....and now we wait.
socialjustice_fsu
04-02-2012, 08:38 PM
I know you all have to be so sick of hearing from me :(
Yesterday evening I had a long talk with my mother, who was having a total meltdown. It was incredibly stressful trying to be there for her as she was raging and crying and scared and all of the other stuff that goes along with knowing your days are numbered and that you're in pain.
Anyway....trying to figure out next steps...and spoke to the doctor this morning. She has 2 months "if we're lucky." She cannot go home, period. She cannot eat food, period. She will have horrible pain from here on out and they will do their best to help control it, period.
Fuck.
They believe they can get her off the IV pain meds, which she is hitting every 15 minutes religiously, and onto oral and patches for pain. They believe they can get her strong enough to fly down to me.
And then it's on me, period.
I have a call in to hospice.
This also means I get to have my crazy, fucked up narcissist of a sister in my house so that she can say her "devoted daughter and where's my share of the loot?" goodbyes.
I am angry, upset and just feel sick myself.
So...welcome to 50. First task of the next half century....help your momma die.
Fuck.
Precious Jo,
I wanted to echo what so many other wise and kind folks have said to you. Calling in hospice is an excellent move. They will get the pain under control and the team will likely even offer to help you deal with your sister if you ask the social worker about this. Reach out. These are highly trained people. Embrace them and let them rally around YOU.
Choose your battles wisely. Do what you feel you need to do. Let 'us' surround you with love and validation.There are 5 universal statements that might help ease your mothers transition and your acceptance of what is to come. They are, "I forgive you." "Will you forgive me?" "Thank you." "I love you." And, "Goodbye." Next year at this time the robins and this glorious spring shall return. Your life will look different from what it is now. It is all transient.
I hold you close to my heart and, in spirit, will walk beside you. Blessings and peace to you, your mom, your family and Snack.
Namaste.
Tamara
Tommi
04-02-2012, 09:58 PM
JustJo,
I am so glad you and Rooster have had quality time with your Mom in Florida. You worried so much about her, and I know this waiting is the hardest thing to go through.
We will be here and write when you can, as much as you can. You and yours are in our thoughts. :stillheart:
SnackTime
04-08-2012, 03:59 PM
Thank you so much everyone. :rrose:
Mom will not be able to go home with hospice care after all. The hospital room has been blocked to all but family, her roommate has been moved, and my sister is spending the night in the other bed for tonight.
They have basically said their goodbyes....mom knows her affairs are all in order....and she is leaving us very soon.
I have believed for some weeks that she was holding on for two things....to have decisions resolved and confirmed about her things and her property....and to see my sister.
Both of those have been accomplished....and now we wait.
I just wanted to give an update on what is going on with Jo's mother. Earlier today, Jo had the most difficult conversation of her life and said goodbye to her mother. They will never speak again. Mom has decided that it's time and said her goodbyes. She has asked the doctor to sedate her and stop all fluids and TPN, and just let her go.
Please keep her and Rooster in your thoughts and prayers. She appreciates all the support from this community.
Novelafemme
04-08-2012, 04:04 PM
Thank you for letting us know, Snack. Please send her my love. My heart is with her and Rooster during this difficult time. Please let us know if there is anything she needs. (w)
julieisafemme
04-08-2012, 04:12 PM
Jo my thougts are with you and your family right now. It is hard for to read this. My Mom has been really sick from the chemotherapy for the past two months. She has one more round starting tomorrow. After that she says she is done with treatment. She's worn out. I knew this was coming but I am feeling unprepared. I guess I am still in denial. I don't even want to think of the world without her. We had a really nice Easter brunch and she was feeling well today.
Jo, Mom, Rooster, & Snack:
Miss Scarlett & I send you our most heartfelt prayers and energies now..as Mom makes this transition...and we hold each one of you in our heartsm thoughts, prayers, and love.
No words now except.....just know YOU ALL are in our hearts....we send you love and prayers and are with you in spirit!
Thanks for the update, Snack!! Love to you all..Clay & Miss Scarlett.....:rrose:
DapperButch
04-08-2012, 05:14 PM
I just wanted to give an update on what is going on with Jo's mother. Earlier today, Jo had the most difficult conversation of her life and said goodbye to her mother. They will never speak again. Mom has decided that it's time and said her goodbyes. She has asked the doctor to sedate her and stop all fluids and TPN, and just let her go.
Please keep her and Rooster in your thoughts and prayers. She appreciates all the support from this community.
Snack,
Thanks so much for posting this. I was hoping we would get word as to how things are going. Please tell Jo she is in my thoughts. Thanks.
sylvie
04-08-2012, 06:37 PM
Jaxon, please send love to Jo from both Mtn & i.. We've been keeping her, Rooster & her mother in Our thoughts constantly.. We've got you all in Our prayers, may her journey be peaceful - sending huggs & love to you both .. ♥
princessbelle
04-08-2012, 06:43 PM
Jo and Rooster are close in thoughts and peaceful energy is being sent from Bully and i.
We are just a phone call away if you need anything sweety.
*hugs.
http://dl.glitter-graphics.net/pub/1067/1067181yae8or6qi0.gif (http://www.glitter-graphics.com)
Zimmeh
04-08-2012, 07:04 PM
My thoughts and prayers go out to Jo, Rooster, and your sister, Jo..
Hugs and I am sorry to hear of this; if you need anything please give me a call.
Zimmeh
mustangjeano
04-08-2012, 11:04 PM
Snack, thanks for letting us know how things are now. Please relay my thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time of transitioning.
Jean
SweetJane
04-09-2012, 01:57 AM
My thoughts and prayers go out to Jo and her mother.... This is a difficult time but know that you're all supported by our care.
JustJo
04-09-2012, 07:23 AM
Thank you everyone....so much.
I had asked Snack to come post an update when I couldn't yesterday...mostly because you have all been so supportive of me during this incredibly difficult time, and I am immensely grateful to all of you.
I keep waiting for the phone to ring from the hospital to tell me she has passed, even though I know it may not be right away. It's a strange feeling to know that she is essentially gone into unconsciousness and we'll never speak again...but that her body is still there, hanging on for a little longer.
Her decision was to be kept unconscious and pain-free until the end, with hydration and TPN removed. Since she is already going into kidney failure, the end will be very soon.
She has made arrangements to donate her body for medical research on Crohn's disease, since it was 50 years of that disease that set her up for this final cancer that is killing her. She hopes that perhaps doctors can learn something from her that will help others...especially Rooster, who she loves more than anyone on the earth, and who has all of the genetic disposition for Crohn's.
It's the most generous thing she's done in her life....and it still amazes me that she made that choice in full knowledge of what it entails.
I have started work on the scrapbook she asked me to make for my son....with all of the silly pictures I have of the two of them together....wearing funny goggles, sword-fighting, mom in a "coonskin" cap....a helmet....the goofiest hat at Disney....always with Rooster, laughing with him, being his constant willing companion into fantasy and silliness.
The first picture in the book was taken when he was about 2 weeks old....she is holding him up in front of her face...and the look on both of their faces is identical....excitement.
Jo:
You are such an incredible soul...to be able to share so much of your mom with us, and of her time with Rooster...I sat with a smile...and tears...and feeling your heartache. Your mom is an amazing lady....may her spirit always be in yours & Rooster's heart.
My heart and prayers remain with you my friend...as does Miss Scarlett's. I kept her aware of this yesterday evening as she drove back home...she is praying for you all as well..and sends her love and energy too.
Words fail me now..just know, we walk this journey with you....take our hands and let us help comfort you and Rooster & Snack thru this....you are in my thoughts, Jo....hugs...sending you our love...Clay and Miss Scarlett!
My Dear Sweet Jo,
you and I may not always see eye to eye. but you are one hell of a woman and I have so very much respect and love for you. Desd and I are so very sorry for you loss and wish you and that sweet young man of yours peace:rrose: and may the good loving memories always surround you and make your heart smile :vigil:
with love and profound sadness
Bard, Desd and the Goose
pynkkameleon
04-10-2012, 04:55 PM
Jo,
I am so very sorry.. Saying goodbye to a loved one is the hardest thing we ever have to do.
Your memories make me smile and are a reminder to all of us to hold those we love close, to laugh lots and to make many memories of our own.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you as well as a reminder that you are surrounded by people who are here for you. I hope that you will continue to share those memories with us.
Gentle hugs
JustJo
04-11-2012, 05:44 PM
I am completely beside myself, and hesitate to even come in here and post...
I found out today that Mom woke up on Monday....something she did not expect, and was furious. Since then she has been in and out of consciousness, and they are still trying to figure out the level of sedation she needs. This has been an issue with anesthesia and her....and she has woken up during surgery a few times previously....horrifying thought.
Some days I hate Google....especially today when I learned that death by dehydration takes a week or ten days.
Cancer sucks....this whole thing sucks.
mustangjeano
04-11-2012, 08:38 PM
I am completely beside myself, and hesitate to even come in here and post...
I found out today that Mom woke up on Monday....something she did not expect, and was furious. Since then she has been in and out of consciousness, and they are still trying to figure out the level of sedation she needs. This has been an issue with anesthesia and her....and she has woken up during surgery a few times previously....horrifying thought.
Some days I hate Google....especially today when I learned that death by dehydration takes a week or ten days.
Cancer sucks....this whole thing sucks.
Dear Jo, That's got to be so very hard on you. I'm guessing that it is not easy to find the right level of sedation without dosing her so much as to actually cause her death---dogone hopspital being afraid of lawsuits. Your Mom has been a strong warrior to survive for many years and now that she is emotionally ready to transition, her body is still not releasing. I pray for a peacefull releasing for her and a joyfull arrival on the other side. My prayers continue to be with you and yours. Jean
Novelafemme
04-11-2012, 08:41 PM
{{{{Jo}}}} My mom used to do the same thing and it is indeed horrifying to contemplate.
I don't know what to say except that we are here for you and yes, cancer sucks big time!
All my love, Novela :rrose:
Tommi
04-11-2012, 10:37 PM
I am completely beside myself, and hesitate to even come in here and post...
I found out today that Mom woke up on Monday....something she did not expect, and was furious. Since then she has been in and out of consciousness, and they are still trying to figure out the level of sedation she needs. This has been an issue with anesthesia and her....and she has woken up during surgery a few times previously....horrifying thought.
Some days I hate Google....especially today when I learned that death by dehydration takes a week or ten days.
Cancer sucks....this whole thing sucks.
http://medicinalmarijuana-usa.com/what-is-mesothelioma/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/CancerSucksEvenBabiesGiveItTheBird.jpg
Hi Jo,
Always glad to read your posts and updates, because Cancer Sucks.
Cancer sucks for those that don't have cancer because we are painfully aware that our loved one is leaving us. Glad to see your Mom's suffering is almost over. My heart goes out to you and the Rooster.
Cancer sucks and I can come here and spit it out...:mohawk:[/COLOR][/B]:
:praying: ((((MOM)))) :praying:
So as "they" say, keep coming back and share with us.
JustJo
04-12-2012, 08:23 AM
Mom passed away early this morning. She was still unconscious so it was, at least, peaceful at the end.
Thank you so much to everyone for the support you've given me through this whole process....and thank you Tommi....I saw that salute to cancer and laughed so hard I cried....and know that Mom would have happily given that salute herself.
Hugs to you all.
:praying: {{{{{{{{MOM}}}}}}}} :praying:
R.I.P., Mom!!!
Hugs for you, Jo & Rooster!!!
pynkkameleon
04-12-2012, 08:38 AM
Jo... You are continually in my thoughts and prayers. May you find comfort in memories and the knowledge that that the suffering is finally over for Mom. Sending you many hugs in return.
Mom passed away early this morning. She was still unconscious so it was, at least, peaceful at the end.
Thank you so much to everyone for the support you've given me through this whole process....and thank you Tommi....I saw that salute to cancer and laughed so hard I cried....and know that Mom would have happily given that salute herself.
Hugs to you all.
RIP Jo's Mom
sending all our love to you and the rooster:praying:
Bard
Desd
Goose
and all the fur kids
Novelafemme
04-12-2012, 11:43 AM
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/p480x480/543383_305349142871874_145479798858810_751781_1160 486495_n.jpg
You are now the Sun -
what need have you for a crown?
You have vanished from this world -
what need have you to tie your robe?
I’ve heard that you can barely see your soul.
... But why look at all? -
yours is now the Soul of Souls!
~Rumi
Rockinonahigh
04-12-2012, 03:30 PM
Jo,im sending you all the healing light I can muster,may it help you and the family at this time.I feel your pain,I know where you are comeing from as the strong are chosen...my friend be at peace.
Zimmeh
04-12-2012, 04:26 PM
Hugs Jo! If you need anything, please let me know.
From my family to you and your family,
Zimmeh
Bella~Vita
04-12-2012, 05:23 PM
Jo, I'm so sorry to hear this. My prayers go out to you and your family and Snack. I also know this pain it will be 4yrs next month for my mom with cancer. It's so not fair .... Many blessings sweet lady !:rrose:
SweetJane
04-12-2012, 05:52 PM
Jo, may you and your family be surrounded with love and peace in your deepest sorrow.
bkisbutchenuff
04-12-2012, 06:25 PM
Just got a call that an Uncle passed...had been fighting cancer for several yrs.
DapperButch
04-12-2012, 06:34 PM
Mom passed away early this morning. She was still unconscious so it was, at least, peaceful at the end.
Thank you so much to everyone for the support you've given me through this whole process....and thank you Tommi....I saw that salute to cancer and laughed so hard I cried....and know that Mom would have happily given that salute herself.
Hugs to you all.
Jo.
There is nothing else to say but to tell you that you are in my thoughts and prayers. And also to tell you that I really mean that.
I know that your mom was not the perfect mother and you have had mixed feelings about her, but that doesn't mean pain and loss is not deep. I am so sorry.
I am around, my friend.
DapperButch
04-12-2012, 06:35 PM
Just got a call that an Uncle passed...had been fighting cancer for several yrs.
I am sorry to hear that. I hope his loss is not too difficult for you.
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