One week ago today I traveled with my mom to Battle Creek for my last radiation treatment. It was the last step in kicking this cancer's butt, mission completed! Many people ask me if I will have testing to make sure the cancer is gone. Truth is, the cancer was gone after I had my surgery back in October. The chemo and radiation are just to kill any microscopic cancer cells and to make sure nothing was left behind. I have already had a chest x-ray and lab work which both came back fine. I don't have any kind of appointments until May 10th when I see the radiation oncologist for my one month follow-up!
So after Monday I was so relieved! I was really looking forward to putting everything behind me, not even thinking about it anymore. But God had other plans. One of my classmates from high school, Melissa, sent me a private Facebook message to tell me that she was just diagnosed with breast cancer. It really threw me for a loop. All of those emotions and feelings that I remember having on October 2nd and in the weeks that followed were coming at me, but this time it was in empathy for Melissa. We have been in contact through Facebook messaging just about everyday since her diagnosis. She shares what is going on with her, I give her tips and encouragement. She put it really well when she explained it like this: I have climbed the mountain. Made it over the obstacles and reached the top. Now I can reach down and grab her hand and help her navigate to the top of the mountain. It's going to be a long climb for her but I am confident that with the support she has and her faith in God, she will make it just fine. This is just another way that God is using my cancer experience to help others. I am praying for Melissa everyday and if you are reading this, I ask that you would too!
I'm not sure how much blogging I will continue to do. There's only so much to talk about these days. I can tell you that my hair is growing, that my eyebrows and eyelashes are growing and that I even ran for just a bit when Kyle & I walked last night. But eventually you would get sick of hearing about those things. It's back to the normal, everyday, ho-hum life and let me tell you-that's just fine with me!
Monday, April 15, 2013
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Radiation-Day 32
Well I only have one more day to drive to Battle Creek for radiation! Then I hope to stay away from that place for a while!!! It's been a little more rough in the last 2 weeks. My skin is pretty crispy & sore. They gave me some special foam pads called Mepilex pads that have really helped. The nice thing is that they say that it doesn't take long at all after completing all the treatments for your skin to go back to normal.
It was Spring Break here this week. That means I had my kiddos to think about as I traveled to Battle Creek everyday. On Monday just the kids and I went. On Tuesday Carrie Hopkins & her kids, Paige & Luke went with us. We went to Cracker Barrel for lunch! On Wednesday my Mom & Dad along with my kids and my nephew, Hunter, all went. We had lunch at Chili's and did some shopping before & after radiation. On Thursday my Mom kept the kids and I went by myself. It made me realize how much faster & more fun that drive is when you have someone to chat with! On Friday Mindy Hasselback and her boys, Carson & Corbin, went with us. We got the boring stuff done first, got some ice cream at McD's and then went bowling. Mindy & I bowled two games, one with bumpers and one without. The kids bowled three games & probably would have done a fourth if we would have let them:). So as you can see, it turned out to be a fun week! It helped that is was sunny everyday this week & we had the highest temps of the year so far. Because of the nice weather I was able to get out and walk this week. Mindy & I walked around town Thursday night during baseball practice & we probably logged close to 2 miles altogether. I was happy about that despite the soreness I felt before bed that evening.
As for my late effect chemo issues....my eyelashes are growing back!!! I can see little baby lashes if I look really close in the mirror. Can't tell if my eyebrows are filling in yet, time will tell. My fingernails are growing like weeds (much like my hair). I can't say for sure but it seems like the lifting hasn't gotten much worse. I need to cut them again to keep them short. I have also been using
the Nail Envy product so hopefully that and the Biotin are helping too.
I have Dove dark chocolate bars with a tag attached made up for all of the radiation staff. I wrote "So blessed by your kindness" and signed my name. I know they are just doing their job but in my opinion they went above & beyond to make my time there more pleasant? I will be so ready to be done but will miss them too!
I continue to be amazed at the support & love that we still feel from everyone. God continues to put people and events in my path at just the right time. As I wind down from my treatment and look forward to having it all behind me there are some special people in my life who continue to battle through their treatments. And just like so many have prayed for me, I will continue to pray for them. If you want to join me you can pray for my Aunt Barb, Aunt Janice and for Gary & Karen.
Isaiah 40:31. But the people who trust in The Lord will become strong again. They will rise up as an eagle in the sky; they will run and not need rest; they will walk and not become tired.
It was Spring Break here this week. That means I had my kiddos to think about as I traveled to Battle Creek everyday. On Monday just the kids and I went. On Tuesday Carrie Hopkins & her kids, Paige & Luke went with us. We went to Cracker Barrel for lunch! On Wednesday my Mom & Dad along with my kids and my nephew, Hunter, all went. We had lunch at Chili's and did some shopping before & after radiation. On Thursday my Mom kept the kids and I went by myself. It made me realize how much faster & more fun that drive is when you have someone to chat with! On Friday Mindy Hasselback and her boys, Carson & Corbin, went with us. We got the boring stuff done first, got some ice cream at McD's and then went bowling. Mindy & I bowled two games, one with bumpers and one without. The kids bowled three games & probably would have done a fourth if we would have let them:). So as you can see, it turned out to be a fun week! It helped that is was sunny everyday this week & we had the highest temps of the year so far. Because of the nice weather I was able to get out and walk this week. Mindy & I walked around town Thursday night during baseball practice & we probably logged close to 2 miles altogether. I was happy about that despite the soreness I felt before bed that evening.
As for my late effect chemo issues....my eyelashes are growing back!!! I can see little baby lashes if I look really close in the mirror. Can't tell if my eyebrows are filling in yet, time will tell. My fingernails are growing like weeds (much like my hair). I can't say for sure but it seems like the lifting hasn't gotten much worse. I need to cut them again to keep them short. I have also been using
the Nail Envy product so hopefully that and the Biotin are helping too.
I have Dove dark chocolate bars with a tag attached made up for all of the radiation staff. I wrote "So blessed by your kindness" and signed my name. I know they are just doing their job but in my opinion they went above & beyond to make my time there more pleasant? I will be so ready to be done but will miss them too!
I continue to be amazed at the support & love that we still feel from everyone. God continues to put people and events in my path at just the right time. As I wind down from my treatment and look forward to having it all behind me there are some special people in my life who continue to battle through their treatments. And just like so many have prayed for me, I will continue to pray for them. If you want to join me you can pray for my Aunt Barb, Aunt Janice and for Gary & Karen.
Isaiah 40:31. But the people who trust in The Lord will become strong again. They will rise up as an eagle in the sky; they will run and not need rest; they will walk and not become tired.
Friday, March 29, 2013
Radiation-Day 27
It's spring break-yeah! The only problem is that the kids and I will be spending the break driving to Battle Creek everyday. But on a positive note, I only have 6 more radiation treatments left! This past week my Mom, Dad and Gale Chaffee accompanied me to radiation on different days. Today I had my Mom (the birthday girl), Gavin, Alexis, Keri, Keegan, Hunter, Emilie and Averie with me! We ate lunch at Cracker Barrel beforehand, yummy!
On Monday I met Aunt Janice Booher for lunch in Charlotte. I was telling her how the radiation hasn't been too bad yet. Well on Tuesday morning I woke up knowing that I had spoke too soon:(
Very red and uncomfortable. One of the radiation techs saw it and said that I needed to go see the nurse to get some different cream. They gave me Regenecare that has Lidocaine in it. That seems to be working nicely for me.
Another weird post chemo issue came up this week. I knew that it was common to have discolored fingernails during or after chemo but what I hadn't heard about yet was fingernails lifting off of the nail bed. Mine are in the early stages of this. I have read lots on the Internet regarding this and it sounds nasty. I'm hoping it doesn't get much worse since many women have actually had many or all of their fingernails come right off. Some have had their fingernails turn black! According to the tips online I have cut my nails short, am already taking the suggested Biotin and am going to use Nail Envy which is a nail strengthener. Thank you to my sister who let me borrow hers! Thank you also to my sis-in-law who helped me get my dosage of Biotin figured out:)
Today was sunny and in the upper 50's. After dinner I took a power walk down the road. It was only just a little over 1/4 mile but it was enough for me. As I sit here writing this I can feel my legs cramping up. It reminds me that I have a long way to go in getting my body back to where it was. I am going to walk a 5k on April 27th so I will need to get out and get walking to be ready. My goal is to be able to run another 5k by the end of summer. Gonna have to have lots more sunny & warm days like today to make that happen!
On Monday I met Aunt Janice Booher for lunch in Charlotte. I was telling her how the radiation hasn't been too bad yet. Well on Tuesday morning I woke up knowing that I had spoke too soon:(
Very red and uncomfortable. One of the radiation techs saw it and said that I needed to go see the nurse to get some different cream. They gave me Regenecare that has Lidocaine in it. That seems to be working nicely for me.
Another weird post chemo issue came up this week. I knew that it was common to have discolored fingernails during or after chemo but what I hadn't heard about yet was fingernails lifting off of the nail bed. Mine are in the early stages of this. I have read lots on the Internet regarding this and it sounds nasty. I'm hoping it doesn't get much worse since many women have actually had many or all of their fingernails come right off. Some have had their fingernails turn black! According to the tips online I have cut my nails short, am already taking the suggested Biotin and am going to use Nail Envy which is a nail strengthener. Thank you to my sister who let me borrow hers! Thank you also to my sis-in-law who helped me get my dosage of Biotin figured out:)
Today was sunny and in the upper 50's. After dinner I took a power walk down the road. It was only just a little over 1/4 mile but it was enough for me. As I sit here writing this I can feel my legs cramping up. It reminds me that I have a long way to go in getting my body back to where it was. I am going to walk a 5k on April 27th so I will need to get out and get walking to be ready. My goal is to be able to run another 5k by the end of summer. Gonna have to have lots more sunny & warm days like today to make that happen!
Friday, March 22, 2013
Radiation-Day 22
Two weeks and 1 day left to go in this radiation process. Things are going well. My skin is holding up very nicely. My eyelashes & eyebrows...not so much. I already mentioned in a previous blog about missing eyelashes. Well this week I realized that my eyebrows are very thin! It is just so weird to me that this is happening so long after my chemo. I asked one of the oncology nurses yesterday and she said it is not unheard of but it's not very common either.
On Monday I saw the oncologist. My lab work and chest x-ray were all normal. While he was leaving the exam room he told me to go and enjoy life. After thinking back over the last 5 1/2 months, I realized that I have been enjoying life all along...there were just some weeks that I enjoyed more than others!
A big thank you to the ladies who made my drives to Battle Creek so pleasant this week-my Mom, Sarah Carpenter and Shauna Swantek. It's amazing how quick that drive can be when you are having great conversation!
On Monday I saw the oncologist. My lab work and chest x-ray were all normal. While he was leaving the exam room he told me to go and enjoy life. After thinking back over the last 5 1/2 months, I realized that I have been enjoying life all along...there were just some weeks that I enjoyed more than others!
A big thank you to the ladies who made my drives to Battle Creek so pleasant this week-my Mom, Sarah Carpenter and Shauna Swantek. It's amazing how quick that drive can be when you are having great conversation!
Friday, March 15, 2013
Radiation-Day 17
I'm halfway through!!! It's a good feeling to know that 17 treatments are done and I only have 16 more to go! This week went well. My Mom, Kelly Adrianson and my Dad were able to ride along with me this week. On Monday I had some lab work done, a chest x-ray and had my port flushed as well as radiation. This coming Monday I will see the oncologist to get the results of everything. No reason to believe it wouldn't all be normal.
Something that isn't normal...my eyelashes! Realized on Monday that all of my lower lashes are gone and that my upper lashes are very thin. I asked the ladies at radiation about it on Tuesday and they said it definitely wasn't from radiation. So I went to the source that has helped me find out a great number of things since my diagnosis...Google! There were several accounts from women who had their lashes thin and fall out one or two months after they were done with chemo. Something about the "cycle" of eyelashes. The most important thing to know is that they grow back in 6-8 weeks. So just when you think you're done with chemo and it's effects, guess again! I wonder if there is any way to Google "are there any other possible chemo side effects that I could end up having, because I'd really like to know ahead of time."
Something that isn't normal...my eyelashes! Realized on Monday that all of my lower lashes are gone and that my upper lashes are very thin. I asked the ladies at radiation about it on Tuesday and they said it definitely wasn't from radiation. So I went to the source that has helped me find out a great number of things since my diagnosis...Google! There were several accounts from women who had their lashes thin and fall out one or two months after they were done with chemo. Something about the "cycle" of eyelashes. The most important thing to know is that they grow back in 6-8 weeks. So just when you think you're done with chemo and it's effects, guess again! I wonder if there is any way to Google "are there any other possible chemo side effects that I could end up having, because I'd really like to know ahead of time."
Friday, March 8, 2013
Radiation-Day 12
I am 1/3 of the way done with radiation! Things are going well! I told the nurse yesterday that I feel great because each day I get stronger & have more energy after being so worn down by the chemo. I'm sure this radiation will catch up with me eventually but for now I'm feeling good.
A big thanks to Dianna Finkler, Emily Mater and my Mom who rode along with me this week. We had so much fun chatting that it made the drive go so much quicker!
We are excited to have our friends, Ryan, Angie & Holden Meyer coming to visit this weekend. They are making the big drive from Negaunee, MI as we speak. They weren't able to come down last year due to Ryan's health complications so it will make this visit even sweeter. A highlight of the visit is that we get to head to the Breslin on Sunday to watch some MSU basketball!
Ever since my hair has been gone I have put lotion on my head. I think it has helped my scalp not be so dry & itchy. I mentioned to my friend Carrie on the phone the other day that I didn't know when I should stop putting lotion on my head since my hair is starting to come in. She said that she thought I should stop when I put the lotion on and it acts like hair gel or mousse and creates a style. I thought that was funny. It made me picture myself with my hair slicked down or even with a Mohawk, the possibilities once I have more hair will be endless!
A big thanks to Dianna Finkler, Emily Mater and my Mom who rode along with me this week. We had so much fun chatting that it made the drive go so much quicker!
We are excited to have our friends, Ryan, Angie & Holden Meyer coming to visit this weekend. They are making the big drive from Negaunee, MI as we speak. They weren't able to come down last year due to Ryan's health complications so it will make this visit even sweeter. A highlight of the visit is that we get to head to the Breslin on Sunday to watch some MSU basketball!
Ever since my hair has been gone I have put lotion on my head. I think it has helped my scalp not be so dry & itchy. I mentioned to my friend Carrie on the phone the other day that I didn't know when I should stop putting lotion on my head since my hair is starting to come in. She said that she thought I should stop when I put the lotion on and it acts like hair gel or mousse and creates a style. I thought that was funny. It made me picture myself with my hair slicked down or even with a Mohawk, the possibilities once I have more hair will be endless!
Friday, March 1, 2013
Radiation-Day 7
Seven radiation sessions under my belt! The kids got to go with me twice this week since they had a snow day on Wednesday and today was a records day for teachers. My parents went with me one day and a friend from church, Gloria Rolfe, rode with me one day too. So far so good!
My Daily Splashes of Joy calendar for today says, "A sense of humor is like a needle and thread: It will patch up so many things." I am learning that it is a must to laugh things off. This afternoon while heading out for radiation I went into Nashville to run some errands. I was wearing a black bandana doo-rag on my head mind you. So the kids and I are walking into the post office and the gentleman holding the door for us told me that I looked like a pirate!!! I thought, "yep, that was exactly the look I was going for today buddy!" So if I ever write a list of things NOT to say to a cancer patient...that one will certainly be on it.
My Daily Splashes of Joy calendar for today says, "A sense of humor is like a needle and thread: It will patch up so many things." I am learning that it is a must to laugh things off. This afternoon while heading out for radiation I went into Nashville to run some errands. I was wearing a black bandana doo-rag on my head mind you. So the kids and I are walking into the post office and the gentleman holding the door for us told me that I looked like a pirate!!! I thought, "yep, that was exactly the look I was going for today buddy!" So if I ever write a list of things NOT to say to a cancer patient...that one will certainly be on it.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Lessons for the Little Ones
2 sessions of radiation down...31 more to go! Things went good last week. The ladies who help me out with radiation are so nice & helpful & friendly. In fact, they almost make you look forward to it each day, almost:) I noticed that it feels like after you've been laying in a tanning bed & maybe you stayed in just a minute or two too long. Not painful at all, just a tingling, warm feeling.
Through these last few months it has been interesting to see how the little kids who are a part of my life have handled things. Right now on the home screen of Gavin's iPod he has a saying, "Go Green, Go Pink, Beat Breast Cancer", my Dad told me how my nephew Hunter was pushing snow around with his foot while ice fishing & said, "look Grandpa, I made a breast cancer ribbon!", and when asked about the breast cancer ribbon symbol on a pen, my niece Averie pointed at me & said it was for Aunt Leslie.
I could go on and on. But two stories this week reminded me that there are good things that are still coming out of this situation. On Thursday it was pink show & tell day for my 3year old preschoolers. One of the children, Draven Reid, brought one of the pink Speak Hope-Leslie Booher bracelets that were distributed just after I was diagnosed. He was very excited to show the class & stood up in front of his peers proudly showing the pink item he had brought. He told the kids that the bracelet said my name on it. One of the other students questioned why that bracelet would have my name on it. Draven looked at me and said, "it's for you Mrs. Booher, we pray for you." I was then able to explain to the class what the bracelet was for and how people could look at the bracelet on their wrist & pray for me while I was sick. How cool is it that this family has made it a priority to pray for me and have used my situation as a way to teach their 3 year old about prayer & about caring for those around you who are sick & hurting! I was excited to tell his Mom the story this morning at church:)
Another story comes through a first grader, Shelby Ripley. They also attend our church & I meet with her Mom for Bible study on a regular basis. Although I have not known them long, it is plain to see that Shelby is being taught the important things in life. This week Shelby told her Mom that her wish for her birthday this year was, "that the mean ol' cancer would leave Leslie alone forever!" How cute is that?! The prayers & thoughtfulness of this family have made an impact on me but also on this little girl!
There are many other stories of kids learning tough but important lessons through my cancer diagnosis. I'm thankful that I have had the opportunity to "Speak Hope" not only to the adults in my life, but to the kids as well.
Through these last few months it has been interesting to see how the little kids who are a part of my life have handled things. Right now on the home screen of Gavin's iPod he has a saying, "Go Green, Go Pink, Beat Breast Cancer", my Dad told me how my nephew Hunter was pushing snow around with his foot while ice fishing & said, "look Grandpa, I made a breast cancer ribbon!", and when asked about the breast cancer ribbon symbol on a pen, my niece Averie pointed at me & said it was for Aunt Leslie.
I could go on and on. But two stories this week reminded me that there are good things that are still coming out of this situation. On Thursday it was pink show & tell day for my 3year old preschoolers. One of the children, Draven Reid, brought one of the pink Speak Hope-Leslie Booher bracelets that were distributed just after I was diagnosed. He was very excited to show the class & stood up in front of his peers proudly showing the pink item he had brought. He told the kids that the bracelet said my name on it. One of the other students questioned why that bracelet would have my name on it. Draven looked at me and said, "it's for you Mrs. Booher, we pray for you." I was then able to explain to the class what the bracelet was for and how people could look at the bracelet on their wrist & pray for me while I was sick. How cool is it that this family has made it a priority to pray for me and have used my situation as a way to teach their 3 year old about prayer & about caring for those around you who are sick & hurting! I was excited to tell his Mom the story this morning at church:)
Another story comes through a first grader, Shelby Ripley. They also attend our church & I meet with her Mom for Bible study on a regular basis. Although I have not known them long, it is plain to see that Shelby is being taught the important things in life. This week Shelby told her Mom that her wish for her birthday this year was, "that the mean ol' cancer would leave Leslie alone forever!" How cute is that?! The prayers & thoughtfulness of this family have made an impact on me but also on this little girl!
There are many other stories of kids learning tough but important lessons through my cancer diagnosis. I'm thankful that I have had the opportunity to "Speak Hope" not only to the adults in my life, but to the kids as well.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
My Faith Story
I was born into a home where my family regularly attended church and learned about God. I heard all of the Bible stories and knew about God’s love for me. During my teen years I had many opportunities to continue learning about God and how he desires a relationship with all of us. But mostly I just “knew” about God. From the outside I looked like someone who had a pretty good sense of morality. But looking back, I was quite selfish. I lived for myself and I “used” God when I needed him. I pulled him off the shelf so to speak when I had a big test, when I wanted to get the guy I was pinning for or when I hoped my parents would ok some request. Don’t get me wrong, God was important to me. But he just didn’t seem all that real or personal. I did well in school; I had good friends and loved my family. Something seemed to be missing in my life and sometimes we don’t even know what’s lacking until we find it.
After Kyle & I married we moved to Big Rapids, MI where we both attended Ferris State University. The wife of another Optometry student invited me to a women’s Bible study & to a campus Christian group. Taking her up on her offer was one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life. I very soon realized that I really had no idea about what it meant to be a Christian. I saw that these women & students had a relationship with God that was far greater than just my “knowing” about him. I wanted to have that relationship that I saw in the lives of these other women. I made a decision to stop living selfishly & committed myself to God and His plans for me. For the first time in my life I found pleasure in reading my Bible, praying and living in community with other Christians. I think that pleasure came from the fact that I was doing this on my own & of my own choice, not hanging on to the coattails of my parents’ faith. Through this time I learned how much God loves me & how my worth comes from Him and that He is all that I need. These lessons helped me overcome some insecurity issues that I had been struggling with. It’s always amazing to see how everything in life happens for a reason.
Back in our hometown, we found a church that teaches us to love God and help people, we added two beautiful babies to our family and we began living life. Through the years I have tried to align my priorities with Gods and try to be more like Jesus in my attitudes & actions. I am continually learning that it’s not all about me; it’s about God and His plan & purpose for my life. Most importantly I have learned that God isn’t something to be taken down off the shelf when times get tough. He is there with me through the good, the bad and the everyday “stuff” of life - He is my friend. I still struggle with selfishness & wanting to be in control of everything, but God loves me anyways. Through the struggles I am learning to follow Jesus, knowing that he has only good in store for me. I am not living a perfect life - I am living a blessed life!
Just after Labor Day weekend in 2012 I found a lump in my left breast. Figuring it was nothing, but wanting to make sure since there is a family history, I made an appointment with my doctor. After having a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy I found out that it was indeed cancer. At the age of 36, my simple little life was rocked by this news. I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t scared or upset, because I was. But when life gets tough, you get to find out just how big the God you believe in really is. Immediately people began praying for our family and the result of those prayers was a peace in my life that I have never experienced before. Because of those prayers, knowing what the Bible says and remembering the teaching of our pastor over the years, I was able to put things into perspective. No matter what happens to me, God is with me. And even better than that, no matter what happens to me, I know that when my time is done here on earth I will live with Him forever in heaven. All that you know and believe about God becomes very real when you are faced with a trial such as cancer. He never promises us that we will go through this life without troubles, but He does promise that he will be there with us.
After Kyle & I married we moved to Big Rapids, MI where we both attended Ferris State University. The wife of another Optometry student invited me to a women’s Bible study & to a campus Christian group. Taking her up on her offer was one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life. I very soon realized that I really had no idea about what it meant to be a Christian. I saw that these women & students had a relationship with God that was far greater than just my “knowing” about him. I wanted to have that relationship that I saw in the lives of these other women. I made a decision to stop living selfishly & committed myself to God and His plans for me. For the first time in my life I found pleasure in reading my Bible, praying and living in community with other Christians. I think that pleasure came from the fact that I was doing this on my own & of my own choice, not hanging on to the coattails of my parents’ faith. Through this time I learned how much God loves me & how my worth comes from Him and that He is all that I need. These lessons helped me overcome some insecurity issues that I had been struggling with. It’s always amazing to see how everything in life happens for a reason.
Back in our hometown, we found a church that teaches us to love God and help people, we added two beautiful babies to our family and we began living life. Through the years I have tried to align my priorities with Gods and try to be more like Jesus in my attitudes & actions. I am continually learning that it’s not all about me; it’s about God and His plan & purpose for my life. Most importantly I have learned that God isn’t something to be taken down off the shelf when times get tough. He is there with me through the good, the bad and the everyday “stuff” of life - He is my friend. I still struggle with selfishness & wanting to be in control of everything, but God loves me anyways. Through the struggles I am learning to follow Jesus, knowing that he has only good in store for me. I am not living a perfect life - I am living a blessed life!
Just after Labor Day weekend in 2012 I found a lump in my left breast. Figuring it was nothing, but wanting to make sure since there is a family history, I made an appointment with my doctor. After having a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy I found out that it was indeed cancer. At the age of 36, my simple little life was rocked by this news. I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t scared or upset, because I was. But when life gets tough, you get to find out just how big the God you believe in really is. Immediately people began praying for our family and the result of those prayers was a peace in my life that I have never experienced before. Because of those prayers, knowing what the Bible says and remembering the teaching of our pastor over the years, I was able to put things into perspective. No matter what happens to me, God is with me. And even better than that, no matter what happens to me, I know that when my time is done here on earth I will live with Him forever in heaven. All that you know and believe about God becomes very real when you are faced with a trial such as cancer. He never promises us that we will go through this life without troubles, but He does promise that he will be there with us.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Ready for Radiation
Let's get this show on the road!!! Radiation starts tomorrow...sort of. I do start tomorrow but the first session is merely a trial run or simulation as they call it. I will go through all of the motions but the radiation will not be delivered. They have to make sure that they have everything all set up & programmed correctly. Thursday will be my first of 33 treatments.
This morning after showering I reorganized my hygiene products as needed for radiation. My regular Secret deodorant was replaced with Tom's Natural deodorant that contains no aluminum. I put away my regular body wash and replaced that with a regular bar of Dove soap. My yummy smelling Bath & Body lotion has been exchanged for Lubriderm Sensitive Skin lotion and Aquaphor Healing Ointment. It was recommended to use the Lubriderm in the morning & afternoon and then using the Aquaphor at night before bed in the area that will be radiated. The nurse said that the more you hydrate & care for your skin, the better it will handle the radiation.
Hair update...it is starting to grow a bit! I am taking a vitamin called Biotin that promotes hair & nail growth. My goal is to be able to unveil my new hair-do on or before my birthday on May 19th. Preschool doesn't end until the 2nd week in May and so I know I will probably wait until after that, my preschoolers don't need anymore hair changes from me this year:)
Prayer requests as I begin this next chapter are:
*Safety driving back & forth to Battle Creek everyday of the week
*That the 2 main side effects of radiation (fatigue & skin issues) would be minimal
This morning after showering I reorganized my hygiene products as needed for radiation. My regular Secret deodorant was replaced with Tom's Natural deodorant that contains no aluminum. I put away my regular body wash and replaced that with a regular bar of Dove soap. My yummy smelling Bath & Body lotion has been exchanged for Lubriderm Sensitive Skin lotion and Aquaphor Healing Ointment. It was recommended to use the Lubriderm in the morning & afternoon and then using the Aquaphor at night before bed in the area that will be radiated. The nurse said that the more you hydrate & care for your skin, the better it will handle the radiation.
Hair update...it is starting to grow a bit! I am taking a vitamin called Biotin that promotes hair & nail growth. My goal is to be able to unveil my new hair-do on or before my birthday on May 19th. Preschool doesn't end until the 2nd week in May and so I know I will probably wait until after that, my preschoolers don't need anymore hair changes from me this year:)
Prayer requests as I begin this next chapter are:
*Safety driving back & forth to Battle Creek everyday of the week
*That the 2 main side effects of radiation (fatigue & skin issues) would be minimal
Monday, February 11, 2013
Radiation Training
Despite having ANOTHER snow day, I was able to go and meet with Dr. Mudge at the Cancer Center this morning. I originally had an appointment on Friday the 8th but there was no school & our road was pretty thick with snow. They were fine with me rescheduling and had an appointment for 9:30 this morning. My Mom, the kids and I went to Battle Creek for my appointment. We were able to also do some quick Valentine's Day shopping and have lunch at Cracker Barrel.
So back to the visit with the Radiologist! Just as I had heard from others, I will have 33 sessions of radiation. This will take me 6 1/2 weeks if I don't miss any sessions. It will only take 1/2 hour, most of which will be spent changing & getting into position for the radiation. The actual time that it takes the machine to work is closer to 5-7 minutes. On Thursdays I will be there longer as I will see either Dr. Mudge or his Nurse for an examination. They will be checking the skin around the radiation site to make sure that it stays healthy. There is a chance of dryness, itching, peeling or blistering in this area. However there are lotions and creams that can be used to help combat this. The doctor said that these types of symptoms don't usually happen until towards the end if they even happen at all. The other main symptom of radiation is fatigue. He said that someone who has just had chemo may not even notice the fatigue because they are used to it.
Tomorrow I go again for my radiation planning appointment. The main components of this 1 1/2-2 hour appointment are getting a body mold, CT scans (to know placement) and tattooing. The body mold is like a plastic form that will keep me from moving during treatment & to assure that I am in the exact same position each day for treatment. The scans will help to define the treatment area and then the tattoos (no I can't get any fancy artwork-bummer!) or tiny dots of colored ink will mark the treatment area. These marks are helpful to make sure that I am in the correct position for treatment. The doctor said that they used to use permanent markers but those would fade or disappear and that some women would try to take a marker and replace the dots but would not do it correctly-whoops!
Then at 2pm I had an appointment with my regular doctor for my yearly check up and "girl tests". I see Dr. Ebaugh at Thornapple Valley Family Health and have been with her for about 15 years or so. She delivered both of the kids and her nurses have been there as long as I have. This was the first I had been there since my diagnosis and they were so sweet & caring to me. Lots of hugs and asking me all about how I was doing. I was able to talk with Dr. about my menopause symptoms. She agreed with what I had read and said that it will be a while before we know if it is true menopause or whether my overview will bounce back from the chemo. She gave me a prescription for something to help with the hot flash & sleeping issues. I am going to wait for a while to fill it and see if I can get by without it.
After that appointment we went to visit my Grandma Latta in the nursing home. She was in a very good mood (which is pretty normal) and very talkative (even though she doesn't make sense) and she was quite comical and made us laugh very hard. Even though I was getting tired, it felt good to see her and spend some time with her.
I have a very busy week ahead of me. I hope that I am ready to go full steam ahead and that I won't burn myself out! Got to visit with a nice lady who is a stage 4 lung cancer patient (Lois) and her daughter at the cancer center today. The daughter said that she believes that if you have faith and a positive attitude you will get through the cancer trials so much easier. I hope to keep that thought close in mind this week...and I'll be just fine.
So back to the visit with the Radiologist! Just as I had heard from others, I will have 33 sessions of radiation. This will take me 6 1/2 weeks if I don't miss any sessions. It will only take 1/2 hour, most of which will be spent changing & getting into position for the radiation. The actual time that it takes the machine to work is closer to 5-7 minutes. On Thursdays I will be there longer as I will see either Dr. Mudge or his Nurse for an examination. They will be checking the skin around the radiation site to make sure that it stays healthy. There is a chance of dryness, itching, peeling or blistering in this area. However there are lotions and creams that can be used to help combat this. The doctor said that these types of symptoms don't usually happen until towards the end if they even happen at all. The other main symptom of radiation is fatigue. He said that someone who has just had chemo may not even notice the fatigue because they are used to it.
Tomorrow I go again for my radiation planning appointment. The main components of this 1 1/2-2 hour appointment are getting a body mold, CT scans (to know placement) and tattooing. The body mold is like a plastic form that will keep me from moving during treatment & to assure that I am in the exact same position each day for treatment. The scans will help to define the treatment area and then the tattoos (no I can't get any fancy artwork-bummer!) or tiny dots of colored ink will mark the treatment area. These marks are helpful to make sure that I am in the correct position for treatment. The doctor said that they used to use permanent markers but those would fade or disappear and that some women would try to take a marker and replace the dots but would not do it correctly-whoops!
Then at 2pm I had an appointment with my regular doctor for my yearly check up and "girl tests". I see Dr. Ebaugh at Thornapple Valley Family Health and have been with her for about 15 years or so. She delivered both of the kids and her nurses have been there as long as I have. This was the first I had been there since my diagnosis and they were so sweet & caring to me. Lots of hugs and asking me all about how I was doing. I was able to talk with Dr. about my menopause symptoms. She agreed with what I had read and said that it will be a while before we know if it is true menopause or whether my overview will bounce back from the chemo. She gave me a prescription for something to help with the hot flash & sleeping issues. I am going to wait for a while to fill it and see if I can get by without it.
After that appointment we went to visit my Grandma Latta in the nursing home. She was in a very good mood (which is pretty normal) and very talkative (even though she doesn't make sense) and she was quite comical and made us laugh very hard. Even though I was getting tired, it felt good to see her and spend some time with her.
I have a very busy week ahead of me. I hope that I am ready to go full steam ahead and that I won't burn myself out! Got to visit with a nice lady who is a stage 4 lung cancer patient (Lois) and her daughter at the cancer center today. The daughter said that she believes that if you have faith and a positive attitude you will get through the cancer trials so much easier. I hope to keep that thought close in mind this week...and I'll be just fine.
Monday, February 4, 2013
The Official End to Chemo!
It's been just about 3 weeks since my last chemo. I have accepted that my recovery is going to take time. I am trying to make sure that I rest when I get the chance. Chemotherapy is behind me (insert big smile & happy dance here) and I see the radiation oncologist this Friday.
I had lab work and an appointment with the oncologist today. I asked about the triple negative status of my cancer. He confirmed that there is currently not any medication (such as Tamoxifen) for me to take post-treatment. This type of cancer also has a higher recurrence rate for the first 5 years after treatment. The doctor said that they are able to monitor for recurrence by the results of my lab work. I will also be having chest x-rays periodically as well as yearly mammograms. He said I am in remission now but not cured until the 5 year point.
I just looked up more information on triple negative breast cancer. I found that 10-20% of breast cancer is triple negative. Medical Oncologist George Sledge, M.D. says, "This is an exceptionally hot area of research in the breast cancer field." He also states that, "There is immense interest among drug developers, pharmaceutical companies and breast cancer laboratory researchers in finding targeted therapies for these patients". I am so thankful for this and am optimistic that during the next 5 years there will be a new preventative medication for me to take.
I had my port flushed today for the first time. I haven't had to do this because of having chemo every 3 weeks, but now that chemo is over I will need to have the flush done once a month. It was easy & quick. In fact I continued sitting in the chair because I didn't realize they were done!
I go back to work tomorrow!!! So excited for this!!! I visited last Thursday and it was so nice to see the kids. 3or 4 kids asked me about my hair. They knew it looked different and they wondered why. Those kids are so smart, they don't miss anything!
I had lab work and an appointment with the oncologist today. I asked about the triple negative status of my cancer. He confirmed that there is currently not any medication (such as Tamoxifen) for me to take post-treatment. This type of cancer also has a higher recurrence rate for the first 5 years after treatment. The doctor said that they are able to monitor for recurrence by the results of my lab work. I will also be having chest x-rays periodically as well as yearly mammograms. He said I am in remission now but not cured until the 5 year point.
I just looked up more information on triple negative breast cancer. I found that 10-20% of breast cancer is triple negative. Medical Oncologist George Sledge, M.D. says, "This is an exceptionally hot area of research in the breast cancer field." He also states that, "There is immense interest among drug developers, pharmaceutical companies and breast cancer laboratory researchers in finding targeted therapies for these patients". I am so thankful for this and am optimistic that during the next 5 years there will be a new preventative medication for me to take.
I had my port flushed today for the first time. I haven't had to do this because of having chemo every 3 weeks, but now that chemo is over I will need to have the flush done once a month. It was easy & quick. In fact I continued sitting in the chair because I didn't realize they were done!
I go back to work tomorrow!!! So excited for this!!! I visited last Thursday and it was so nice to see the kids. 3or 4 kids asked me about my hair. They knew it looked different and they wondered why. Those kids are so smart, they don't miss anything!
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Patience
Wow, what a week it's been! Crazy weather, closed school and I have not been feeling well since Sunday night. At first I thought I was getting the flu. I had aches all over my body & a low-grade fever (between 99.8-100.4). The fever was not quite high enough to call the after hours number at the cancer center so I waited it out. Monday morning the fever was gone so I took some pain reliever to be more comfortable. Monday night the fever was back along with being super achy. So I called the cancer center on Tuesday morning & talked with one of the nurses. Based on my description she suspected that my white blood cell count had dropped too low. This made the Neulasta shot kick into high gear, thus the achy body (you may remember that this shot helps in the production of white blood cells) and that my body was trying to fight off something. What is unclear is whether I actually had some sort of infection somewhere or if all of this was just due to a drop in counts. So after she checked with the doctor, they decided to put me on a prophylactic antibiotic (prophylactic meaning preventative...not to be confused with birth control; I won't name any names but I had to clarify that for one of my friends so I thought I should clarify here as well:)
I started on the antibiotic last night. Really hoping to find some relief from feeling cruddy!
I started crying Monday night and told Kyle how I was so frustrated with my recovery. I think somewhere in my mind I just thought, "I'm done with chemo, therefore I should feel good & normal". He reminded me of the cumulative effect that the chemo can have & that it is going to take time. The next morning my Mom said the same thing. She told how she had a pretty smooth time all during her chemo but then had some struggles after she was finished. I am not the most patient person in the world so must be God is trying to help me out in that area:) I know in my mind that I need to be patient; everything will eventually subside. If you are praying for me, you could pray that I would accept that & that I will be patient with my body.
Huge blessings yesterday! When I checked Facebook in the morning, Sarah Byers had written a message stating that she wanted to bring us dinner for Tuesday night. This was out of the blue, I had no idea she was planning on this and boy, was I relieved & thankful. I had planned to get groceries on Monday but I didn't feel well & the roads were bad anyways. So the cupboards were getting bare & Sarah's offer was very helpful. She arrived with Chicken Tortilla Soup complete with tortilla chips, cheese & sour cream. Also a plate of brownies topped with little pink heart-shaped marshmallows (thanks to Cadence). It was very yummy & a great lesson that God always provides! Also need to thank Dianna Finkler who watched the kids yesterday (who had a 2nd day off of school this week due to weather) while I went to an appointment & did lab work. While I am thanking Dianna, I must also mention that she has been the one to coordinate all of the meals that were brought in during surgery recovery & throughout chemo. She is a gem and I am so thankful for her kindness!
So as I sit here on the couch, I think about all of the things I want to accomplish here at home today. I know that I will need to pace myself & rest in between tasks. I will try remember that none of it HAS to be done & that being patient with my body is most important. I also trust that God will be with me during this recovery time, just as he has been every step of the way so far.
I started on the antibiotic last night. Really hoping to find some relief from feeling cruddy!
I started crying Monday night and told Kyle how I was so frustrated with my recovery. I think somewhere in my mind I just thought, "I'm done with chemo, therefore I should feel good & normal". He reminded me of the cumulative effect that the chemo can have & that it is going to take time. The next morning my Mom said the same thing. She told how she had a pretty smooth time all during her chemo but then had some struggles after she was finished. I am not the most patient person in the world so must be God is trying to help me out in that area:) I know in my mind that I need to be patient; everything will eventually subside. If you are praying for me, you could pray that I would accept that & that I will be patient with my body.
Huge blessings yesterday! When I checked Facebook in the morning, Sarah Byers had written a message stating that she wanted to bring us dinner for Tuesday night. This was out of the blue, I had no idea she was planning on this and boy, was I relieved & thankful. I had planned to get groceries on Monday but I didn't feel well & the roads were bad anyways. So the cupboards were getting bare & Sarah's offer was very helpful. She arrived with Chicken Tortilla Soup complete with tortilla chips, cheese & sour cream. Also a plate of brownies topped with little pink heart-shaped marshmallows (thanks to Cadence). It was very yummy & a great lesson that God always provides! Also need to thank Dianna Finkler who watched the kids yesterday (who had a 2nd day off of school this week due to weather) while I went to an appointment & did lab work. While I am thanking Dianna, I must also mention that she has been the one to coordinate all of the meals that were brought in during surgery recovery & throughout chemo. She is a gem and I am so thankful for her kindness!
So as I sit here on the couch, I think about all of the things I want to accomplish here at home today. I know that I will need to pace myself & rest in between tasks. I will try remember that none of it HAS to be done & that being patient with my body is most important. I also trust that God will be with me during this recovery time, just as he has been every step of the way so far.
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Jan. 24-Last Chemo-Day 10
Started the week by going full tilt and hit a wall on Wednesday. Realized that I am still very much trying to recover & still need to give myself some times of rest.
While I was resting on Wednesday I did more research on Triple Negative Breast Cancer which is what my cancer is. There are 3 different hormone receptors (ER, PR and HER2) that they test for on the tumor. My tumor did not show these, therefore I am considered "Triple Negative." I will not be able to take Tamoxifen or Herceptin after my chemo & radiation like many women do as these drugs are only used when a patient is positive for these hormone receptors. I plan to talk with the oncologist about this at my next visit to see if there is another prevention medication I will be able to take.
I found out that the first ever National Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day is on 3-3-13. I ordered a shirt that they were selling on their website. There is a walk in Grand Rapids on that day as well as many other fund raisers across the country. This is something I will be continuing to research & learn more about .
My Mom found a book that she was given when she had breast cancer. She gave it to me & I have been reading it. It's called A Spiritual Journey Through Breast Cancer by Judy Asti. Judy was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer at age 46 and gives a very candid account of her struggles. It is crazy how much I can relate to what she is talking about. This is one paragraph that spoke to me:
The journey is tough on the body. There is a lot you can do to maintain a pretty normal appearance if you want to, but try not to dwell on it. Despite what Hollywood tells us, the outer body is simply a vessel that carries us through this life. Keep your eyes off the mirror and on The Lord. It is the inner life that really matters.
While I was resting on Wednesday I did more research on Triple Negative Breast Cancer which is what my cancer is. There are 3 different hormone receptors (ER, PR and HER2) that they test for on the tumor. My tumor did not show these, therefore I am considered "Triple Negative." I will not be able to take Tamoxifen or Herceptin after my chemo & radiation like many women do as these drugs are only used when a patient is positive for these hormone receptors. I plan to talk with the oncologist about this at my next visit to see if there is another prevention medication I will be able to take.
I found out that the first ever National Triple Negative Breast Cancer Day is on 3-3-13. I ordered a shirt that they were selling on their website. There is a walk in Grand Rapids on that day as well as many other fund raisers across the country. This is something I will be continuing to research & learn more about .
My Mom found a book that she was given when she had breast cancer. She gave it to me & I have been reading it. It's called A Spiritual Journey Through Breast Cancer by Judy Asti. Judy was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer at age 46 and gives a very candid account of her struggles. It is crazy how much I can relate to what she is talking about. This is one paragraph that spoke to me:
The journey is tough on the body. There is a lot you can do to maintain a pretty normal appearance if you want to, but try not to dwell on it. Despite what Hollywood tells us, the outer body is simply a vessel that carries us through this life. Keep your eyes off the mirror and on The Lord. It is the inner life that really matters.
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Many Thank You's!
I almost feel like I need to pinch myself! As I sit here on day 5 of my last chemo, it's so exciting to think that I will never have to experience day 3 and 4 again! I'm still tired, sluggish, achy & my stomach is not right but each day is another step closer to being done with having this poison in my body. I am so ready to move on!
As usual,we have many people to thank for their kindness this week. The first is my sister-in-law, Erin, who was the one who had the hat sent from the Good Wishes company. This is the hat I am wearing in the most recently posted pictures on my blog. I love it & appreciate her thinking of me!
On Wednesday night Tracy Nelson provided a yummy dinner for us! It was scalloped potatoes & ham, a dish I never make but will have to start because the kids loved it!
On Thursday night Jessica Rowley brought a yummy Chicken & Rice bake. It was very good & another meal that I will be making in the near future.
On Friday night Stacee English was planning to bring us a meal but we ended up holding her off due to the fact that we had so many leftovers & more food coming from Kyle's co-workers. So I would like to thank her for her willingness to help!
Then Kyle came home from work last night with bags, boxes & coolers filled with food. This was all from his co-workers at Eaton Rapids Eye Care. There were groceries for the pantry, food to warm up when needed, fruits & veggies, desserts and snacks. I should have taken a picture of everything out on the counter before we put it away! Our family at ERO have been so supportive, what a blessing!
I also want to thank my parents who picked the kids up from school yesterday & took them to their floor hockey game. I am so thankful to have such great parents who are always there to do whatever needs to be done. They have helped me in so many ways during the last few months and I can't thank them enough!
As usual,we have many people to thank for their kindness this week. The first is my sister-in-law, Erin, who was the one who had the hat sent from the Good Wishes company. This is the hat I am wearing in the most recently posted pictures on my blog. I love it & appreciate her thinking of me!
On Wednesday night Tracy Nelson provided a yummy dinner for us! It was scalloped potatoes & ham, a dish I never make but will have to start because the kids loved it!
On Thursday night Jessica Rowley brought a yummy Chicken & Rice bake. It was very good & another meal that I will be making in the near future.
On Friday night Stacee English was planning to bring us a meal but we ended up holding her off due to the fact that we had so many leftovers & more food coming from Kyle's co-workers. So I would like to thank her for her willingness to help!
Then Kyle came home from work last night with bags, boxes & coolers filled with food. This was all from his co-workers at Eaton Rapids Eye Care. There were groceries for the pantry, food to warm up when needed, fruits & veggies, desserts and snacks. I should have taken a picture of everything out on the counter before we put it away! Our family at ERO have been so supportive, what a blessing!
I also want to thank my parents who picked the kids up from school yesterday & took them to their floor hockey game. I am so thankful to have such great parents who are always there to do whatever needs to be done. They have helped me in so many ways during the last few months and I can't thank them enough!
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Jan. 16-CONTINUED
***Really not good to write blogs on the IPad because it can sometimes mess up like today, but it's so convenient! So here is my continued post...
My Dad opened the trunk at Wendy's and there were two huge bouquets of flowers for me! One was from my parents & my sis & her family, beautiful white & pink roses. The other was from my Aunt Bev, Uncle Tom, Andy & family, Josh & family and Allison & family. This bouquet was a huge assortment of roses, daisies and other beautiful flowers that I don't exactly know the names of. What a nice surprise, I am so blessed! We took lots of pictures of my special day so I hope to get some of them posted here at some point today.
Last night I decided to try going to my monthly library meeting. I missed last month & wanted to be there. I was able to stay the whole time! Got pretty tired towards the end but it was all good. A big thank you to Stacy Maier, one of Kyle's co-workers, who sent a big bowl of Chili home with him last night!! Last nights sleep was pretty usual for the night of chemo, up every two hours for bathroom (they put so many fluids in you during chemo plus I have to drink a large amount of water) and of course throw in a few hot flashes. It wasn't a terrible night but I may want to try & nap this afternoon before heading back to B.C. for my LAST Neulasta shot.
In closing I want to share something that my sister wrote in the card she gave me yesterday. You've probably seen this quote before but it means something more to me now.
"What lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us"
-Henry David Thoreau
My Dad opened the trunk at Wendy's and there were two huge bouquets of flowers for me! One was from my parents & my sis & her family, beautiful white & pink roses. The other was from my Aunt Bev, Uncle Tom, Andy & family, Josh & family and Allison & family. This bouquet was a huge assortment of roses, daisies and other beautiful flowers that I don't exactly know the names of. What a nice surprise, I am so blessed! We took lots of pictures of my special day so I hope to get some of them posted here at some point today.
Last night I decided to try going to my monthly library meeting. I missed last month & wanted to be there. I was able to stay the whole time! Got pretty tired towards the end but it was all good. A big thank you to Stacy Maier, one of Kyle's co-workers, who sent a big bowl of Chili home with him last night!! Last nights sleep was pretty usual for the night of chemo, up every two hours for bathroom (they put so many fluids in you during chemo plus I have to drink a large amount of water) and of course throw in a few hot flashes. It wasn't a terrible night but I may want to try & nap this afternoon before heading back to B.C. for my LAST Neulasta shot.
In closing I want to share something that my sister wrote in the card she gave me yesterday. You've probably seen this quote before but it means something more to me now.
"What lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us"
-Henry David Thoreau
Jan. 16-Last Chemo-Day 2
Yes, yesterday was my last chemo treatment! Very exciting, and even though I'm not looking forward to the next week or so of side effects...it's nice knowing that it will all be the last of it! I'll get back to chemo, first I need to update on my appointment with the doctor on Monday.
I had lab work done and then saw the oncologist like usual right before chemo. I was able to find out some good news in that right after I see him next I can return to work!!! So the plan is that if all of my lab work continues to come back normal I will be back at Peas in a Pod on February 5th!!! The bad news is that he said my port that I receive my chemo through has to stay in for a year. This means having to deal with it during the bathing suit/tank top season. I've already decided that I'm not going to buy a bunch of new suits and stuff to hide it...it's going to be a part of me a little longer so I need to just deal with it and the looks/questions that may come with it. As far as radiation goes, that will all get set up when I see the doctor again on Feb. 4th. I didn't get any other questions answered by him regarding this (at this point he had the door open & was half way out of the office so I got just the info. I really needed:). One of the nurses said that 99% of the time a woman in my case would have 33 sessions of radiation. I also know that this is given 5 days a week at the cancer center...I am going to get VERY good at that drive to Battle Creek! Something that you can pray about for me would be that I get an afternoon appointment (I would have the same appointment time everyday) so that it would not interfere with work but also that my time is early enough that I will be home in time to get the kids off of the bus. Looking for a 1 or 2pm appointment ideally.
After I left my appointment, I went and did some shopping. At Kohl's I had a gift card to spend from Christmas so as usual I hit the clearance racks! I have this thing where I just take anything that I remotely like or think I could like that is in a good price range ($3-$12.00) to the dressing room. I think I counted 17 things or so that I took in. Well I had my wig on & knew it was not going to hold up to all of that trying on so I just took it off! Normally if I had my real hair and tried on all of that I would walk out looking like I'd been rubbing my hair against a balloon for 10 minutes & it would be flat. So another positive that I found in the wig as I popped it back on & headed out of the dressing room looking just as good as when I went in!
One of the ways that some don't realize that chemo affects your body is that it throws it into a type of menopause. My research on this isn't extensive by any means although I do need to do some online reasearch while I am down this week. But basically, you could either be sent into a permanent menopause or there is a chance that when the chemo is all finished that everything will return to normal. This may be TMI for some readers but for me I have had my cycle do all different things since starting chemo to the point now that it seems to be absent. And the best side effect of all...hot flashes! (Anyone who has gone through them can totally understand that the previous statement was complete sarcasm). I mostly have them at night and there is just really no way to sleep through them. You take off some or all of the covers and finally cool off & fall back to sleep only to wake again ice cold because you have no covers on so you cover yourself back up to get warm & then an hour later...another hot flash! Like I said, haven't done much research so I'm not sure if I'm hoping for this to be permanent menopause or temporary. Wouldn't it be interesting if I am getting to "try out" menopause before I have the real thing in say 10 or so years from now?!
Sorry for such a long post but I also want to share about chemo yesterday. My Dad, Mom & Sister went with me and it worked out great as the chemo area was not busy at all & so we were able to get a chair off in a corner to accommodate everyone to sit around me. I got started much quicker than usual too because of their not being many other patients. The best surprise of the day (and there were many) was when my Aunt Barb & Aunt Loretta came in to sit with me for a while! As many of you know, my Aunt Barb has been battling cancer very courageously for 2 years (at least) now. She is still undergoing chemo is has no scheduled last chemo like I was having yesterday so it was very bittersweet to think about our two situations. She has an amazing attitude about the whole thing and her faith in God is so inspiring. She brought me 4 pink roses, one for each of my chemo treatments:). Well with all of the visiting & the fact that everything went so quickly, it was a quick session & I was leaving at about 1:50! We stopped at Wendy's for a celebratory Frosty. I love their new value size Frosty's. They are so tiny but perfect for a girl who just had chemo:). When we got out of the car at Wendy's my Dad opened the trunk
I had lab work done and then saw the oncologist like usual right before chemo. I was able to find out some good news in that right after I see him next I can return to work!!! So the plan is that if all of my lab work continues to come back normal I will be back at Peas in a Pod on February 5th!!! The bad news is that he said my port that I receive my chemo through has to stay in for a year. This means having to deal with it during the bathing suit/tank top season. I've already decided that I'm not going to buy a bunch of new suits and stuff to hide it...it's going to be a part of me a little longer so I need to just deal with it and the looks/questions that may come with it. As far as radiation goes, that will all get set up when I see the doctor again on Feb. 4th. I didn't get any other questions answered by him regarding this (at this point he had the door open & was half way out of the office so I got just the info. I really needed:). One of the nurses said that 99% of the time a woman in my case would have 33 sessions of radiation. I also know that this is given 5 days a week at the cancer center...I am going to get VERY good at that drive to Battle Creek! Something that you can pray about for me would be that I get an afternoon appointment (I would have the same appointment time everyday) so that it would not interfere with work but also that my time is early enough that I will be home in time to get the kids off of the bus. Looking for a 1 or 2pm appointment ideally.
After I left my appointment, I went and did some shopping. At Kohl's I had a gift card to spend from Christmas so as usual I hit the clearance racks! I have this thing where I just take anything that I remotely like or think I could like that is in a good price range ($3-$12.00) to the dressing room. I think I counted 17 things or so that I took in. Well I had my wig on & knew it was not going to hold up to all of that trying on so I just took it off! Normally if I had my real hair and tried on all of that I would walk out looking like I'd been rubbing my hair against a balloon for 10 minutes & it would be flat. So another positive that I found in the wig as I popped it back on & headed out of the dressing room looking just as good as when I went in!
One of the ways that some don't realize that chemo affects your body is that it throws it into a type of menopause. My research on this isn't extensive by any means although I do need to do some online reasearch while I am down this week. But basically, you could either be sent into a permanent menopause or there is a chance that when the chemo is all finished that everything will return to normal. This may be TMI for some readers but for me I have had my cycle do all different things since starting chemo to the point now that it seems to be absent. And the best side effect of all...hot flashes! (Anyone who has gone through them can totally understand that the previous statement was complete sarcasm). I mostly have them at night and there is just really no way to sleep through them. You take off some or all of the covers and finally cool off & fall back to sleep only to wake again ice cold because you have no covers on so you cover yourself back up to get warm & then an hour later...another hot flash! Like I said, haven't done much research so I'm not sure if I'm hoping for this to be permanent menopause or temporary. Wouldn't it be interesting if I am getting to "try out" menopause before I have the real thing in say 10 or so years from now?!
Sorry for such a long post but I also want to share about chemo yesterday. My Dad, Mom & Sister went with me and it worked out great as the chemo area was not busy at all & so we were able to get a chair off in a corner to accommodate everyone to sit around me. I got started much quicker than usual too because of their not being many other patients. The best surprise of the day (and there were many) was when my Aunt Barb & Aunt Loretta came in to sit with me for a while! As many of you know, my Aunt Barb has been battling cancer very courageously for 2 years (at least) now. She is still undergoing chemo is has no scheduled last chemo like I was having yesterday so it was very bittersweet to think about our two situations. She has an amazing attitude about the whole thing and her faith in God is so inspiring. She brought me 4 pink roses, one for each of my chemo treatments:). Well with all of the visiting & the fact that everything went so quickly, it was a quick session & I was leaving at about 1:50! We stopped at Wendy's for a celebratory Frosty. I love their new value size Frosty's. They are so tiny but perfect for a girl who just had chemo:). When we got out of the car at Wendy's my Dad opened the trunk
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Jan. 13-Chemo 3-Day 18
As I type this, Alexis is giving me a foot rub! She is really into playing "spa" and so we have all been getting massages the last few days. Really loving it and hope that this phase of hers lasts for a long time:)
In the mail yesterday I received a package. It was from an organization called Good Wishes. Their mission is to provide a free scarf or head wrap to anyone experiencing hair loss as a result of illness, injury or treatment. Their goal is to provide a bit of comfort and share the power of positive thinking with their Good Wishes. So someone contacted them and had a head wrap sent to me. If that person is reading this, thank you so much! There have been so many nice surprises along this journey and I'm very thankful for each person who has taken the time to do something nice for me. One thing that this experience has taught me is to take some time each week to send out cards or send an uplifting e-mail or Facebook message to someone struggling in some way. Through everything that has been done for me, I have learned that small acts of kindness can make a big difference!
Starting to feel a less tired & sluggish. I vacuumed the house today & didn't feel like I had just run a marathon afterwards. This is good as I have #4 and FINAL chemo on Tuesday. Tomorrow I have lab work & see the oncologist. I feel like I have a lot of questions this time. Questions like, "when and how does my port get taken out?" and "when can I go back to work?" and "when do I start radiation & how many sessions will I have of that?"
As usual I am not looking forward to another treatment & all the things that come with it. But the light at the end of the tunnel is very bright! God is amazing! He has given me so much during this time and I trust him to see me through the rest of it!
In the mail yesterday I received a package. It was from an organization called Good Wishes. Their mission is to provide a free scarf or head wrap to anyone experiencing hair loss as a result of illness, injury or treatment. Their goal is to provide a bit of comfort and share the power of positive thinking with their Good Wishes. So someone contacted them and had a head wrap sent to me. If that person is reading this, thank you so much! There have been so many nice surprises along this journey and I'm very thankful for each person who has taken the time to do something nice for me. One thing that this experience has taught me is to take some time each week to send out cards or send an uplifting e-mail or Facebook message to someone struggling in some way. Through everything that has been done for me, I have learned that small acts of kindness can make a big difference!
Starting to feel a less tired & sluggish. I vacuumed the house today & didn't feel like I had just run a marathon afterwards. This is good as I have #4 and FINAL chemo on Tuesday. Tomorrow I have lab work & see the oncologist. I feel like I have a lot of questions this time. Questions like, "when and how does my port get taken out?" and "when can I go back to work?" and "when do I start radiation & how many sessions will I have of that?"
As usual I am not looking forward to another treatment & all the things that come with it. But the light at the end of the tunnel is very bright! God is amazing! He has given me so much during this time and I trust him to see me through the rest of it!
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
My Eyebrows & Wig
So I've finally gotten brave enough to announce that I have not lost my eyebrows or eyelashes and I most likely won't! At first I thought maybe it would just take longer to lose those than it did my hair, but other than thinning, they are still there-yeah! I have a history of jinxing myself. You know how it is...you say "we haven't gotten sick all year" and the next day someone is throwing up! Or if I said, "I guess I'm not going to loose my lashes & brows" and then I wake up the next morning & they are gone. That is why I have been so leery about celebrating this! But celebrate I will because you have to find the positives everyday:)
I have had some funny wig experiences. On Sunday at church I was talking to a gentleman who was asking about how things were going with me. When I said I was doing chemo he asked if I was going to lose my hair. I came clean & kindly told him that I had lost my hair and was wearing a wig. He was surprised at how much it looked like my normal hair!
Another story was when picking the kids up from school yesterday. They usually ride the bus home but I picked up for the first time in a month or so. One of the school staff in the pick-up line wondered what I had done different with my hair. I again, caught her up on the situation and she commented on how much she liked my wig.
Then we went to Lexi's orthodontist. First the assistant told me that she liked my hair. Then the doctor asked if I had done something different with my hair. I explained to him, the assistant and pretty much the whole room (it's just one big open room with all patients getting worked on next to each other) what was going on with me. Their responses were very nice as they again talked about how natural they thought the wig looked.
So today I am thankful for my eyebrows and a wig that has everyone fooled!!!
I have had some funny wig experiences. On Sunday at church I was talking to a gentleman who was asking about how things were going with me. When I said I was doing chemo he asked if I was going to lose my hair. I came clean & kindly told him that I had lost my hair and was wearing a wig. He was surprised at how much it looked like my normal hair!
Another story was when picking the kids up from school yesterday. They usually ride the bus home but I picked up for the first time in a month or so. One of the school staff in the pick-up line wondered what I had done different with my hair. I again, caught her up on the situation and she commented on how much she liked my wig.
Then we went to Lexi's orthodontist. First the assistant told me that she liked my hair. Then the doctor asked if I had done something different with my hair. I explained to him, the assistant and pretty much the whole room (it's just one big open room with all patients getting worked on next to each other) what was going on with me. Their responses were very nice as they again talked about how natural they thought the wig looked.
So today I am thankful for my eyebrows and a wig that has everyone fooled!!!
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Jan. 5-Chemo 3-Day 10
Up to this point with my chemo, Day 10 has been a back-to-normal kind of day. I actually have felt back-to-normal by day 7 or 8 for sure, but not so much this time around. When they told me that the chemo would have a cumulative effect at chemo #2, I was prepared for that. But chemo #2 was easy. Easier than the first one and I was only down for 6-7 days. I guess the cumulative effect decided to happen this time around. What this seems to mean for me is that I am just very tired, weak & achy. Even after a good night of sleep I wake up feeling tired & sluggish. Both Kyle & my Mom reminded me, I only have one more time of going through this. And really, being tired & achy is not the worst that could be happening. So if you're reading this and have been praying for me, thank you! Continued prayer for strength & energy would be much appreciated as I really want to be able to get back on track before my next dose. And as I lounge around for a few days longer than expected, I pray for you and your thoughtfulness & generosity. I am amazed each day at the Facebook messages, texts, cards & goodies that are sent my way. I need to especially mention my sister & her family who blessed us this past week in a huge way. The only thing I can do is to say "thank you" and "I love you"!
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Happy 2013!
We ended up having a very pleasant New Year's Eve here at the Booher's! During a yummy lasagna dinner we talked about our highlights of 2012 (I'll get back to that later), then we hung out in the basement to play some low-key Wii games and then finished the evening with an exciting (is that really possible?) game of Monopoly. The kids wanted to stay up so we all made it till midnight except for Alexis who fell asleep on the couch about 11:15.
Today was nice & relaxing. Kyle hunted and he & the kids played out in the snow. I tried to recover from staying up until midnight! Then the best part of the day...I left the house tonight...first time since Friday! We went to Hastings tonight & ate dinner at Applebee's. My stomach wasn't quite ready for that, but man, did it feel good to put on make-up, some jeans and get out of the house!!!
So back to those highlights, here they are in no particular order:
*Watching the Olympics (Alexis)
*Going to gymnastics camp this summer in Charlotte (Alexis)
*Championship baseball game (Gavin)
*Playing in first Gus Macker (Gavin)
*Going on my first cruise with Kyle (Leslie)
*Purchasing the camper this summer (Kyle)
*Going to Florida & Myrtle Beach for weddings (Alexis)
*New cousin Keegan (both Gavin & Alexis at the same time:)
*Carson's birthday sleepover (Gavin)
*Visit to the U.P. & seeing Ryan doing so well (Leslie)
*Getting the box of gift cards (Alexis)
***Kyle also pointed out that because of a car trip to Myrtle Beach & Missouri, he and Gavin visited 10 states last year!
Finding out about my cancer this year was certainly unexpected and very hard to deal with. But when I look at the above list, I am not discouraged. It was a great year, full of wonderful people and experiences. I can only hope that 2013 is just as good!
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