Well now, I've neglected this blog for over 6 months! Anyone just stopping by for the first time, make sure you check out the tab at the top labeled "My Journey". That will give you an overview of my 2 cancers and treatments, and also give you links to take you to the beginning of each cancer diagnosis.
I recently had several tests done and met with my oncologist for my 6 month check up. I've had CT scans of my chest, abdomen, and pelvis, a brain MRI, lots of labs, a mammogram, and .....I think that's it, although I feel like I'm missing something. Bottom line---everything looks good!! And yes, I DO have a brain! ;)
I won't have to have any more CT scans, because I've reached my 5 year anniversary for the colon cancer, which means NO MORE colon cancer! I will still have a chest MRI for the breast cancer, and see my onc. every 6 months.
My brain MRI was because of some unusual headaches I've been having. Still don't know what's causing them, but it's not brain cancer (THANK YOU LORD!!!!!). That is the only test that has really scared me. I REALLY was afraid that they might find a tumor up there. I can handle tumors almost anywhere else--just NOT MY BRAIN.
The other thing I've been having issues with is the neuropathy in my feet. I talked to my primary physician, and she put me on Neurontin (gabepentin). I only stayed on it 9 days because it made me so groggy. I was supposed to double the dose on day 14, but there was no way I was going to do that. My onc. wants me to try acupuncture, which surprised me because he's sort of a skeptic about things, but we've both heard many people say they've had improvement with it. I haven't done it yet...I keep forgetting to call my insurance to see if they cover it. If that doesn't work, Cymbalta might help. My neuropathy isn't too bad, but the burning feeling on the bottoms of my feet has been getting worse. It's never terribly painful, just annoying. It hurts worse when I've been on my feet a lot, or with any extreme temperature. Too hot or too cold--they both cause that burning feeling.
Stomach/digestive issues are still there, but probably always will be due to the type of colon resection surgery I had (Low Anterior Resection). Things are better, but I find the side effects from cancer treatment to be very annoying some days. I get tired of it and it gets me down sometimes. I realized a while ago that I am almost always in some kind of pain/discomfort--no wonder I feel blue sometimes! But don't worry, overall I feel happy and blessed! Because, hey, I'm alive and cancer free, right?? :)
Well, that's my little update for now. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness month, so if you are over 50, and haven't had your colonoscopy, GO GET IT DONE ASAP. Colorectal cancer can be PREVENTED by getting your screenings done! If you are younger and have any bowel changes, bleeding, etc. INSIST on getting a colonoscopy. More and more young people are getting colon and rectal cancer now. The best way to fight this disease is to catch it early!
Blessings!!
Tina
Showing posts with label colonoscopy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label colonoscopy. Show all posts
Friday, March 7, 2014
Monday, February 11, 2013
Four Years!
February 6th was the 4 year anniversary of my tumor being found during a colonoscopy. I was having some symptoms that my primary Dr.(pcp) and gastro Dr. both thought were irritable bowel or colitis. Thankfully, before my pcp looked further into my symptoms, she wanted me to have a colonoscopy, and then we'd know more what we were dealing with. We were ALL surprised when the tumor was found. The gastro doc doing the procedure saw it right away (I was given some good drugs, but was fully awake) and said "See that? That shouldn't be there". After the exam the doc came in and told us he was sure it was cancer, although we needed to wait for the pathology report for the 'official' word. I am so grateful Rich was with me! We just held each other when the Dr. left. Then he came back, and told me he had set up a CT scan for me that afternoon. Things moved really fast! I remember the nurse giving me a hug when she walked us out and telling me I was going to be ok. That was so sweet, and yet scared me because I didn't really realize the gravity of the situation yet. Thanks to my 'happy drugs', I wasn't too upset yet--I told Rich in the truck after to stop looking so gloomy! Poor guy, he just found out his wife had cancer! I'm sure he was overwhelmed! (I don't think I'll ever know how hard all of this was on him, as he did a good job of keeping it from me. He was an EXCELLENT caregiver, and I'll always be grateful for that!)
Like I said, things moved quickly. My CT scan didn't show any other areas of cancer (except a possible lymph node). My gastro doc also contacted a surgeon, and an appt. to see him was scheduled, then my pre-op, then the surgery on Feb. 20th, just 2 weeks later. During surgery, 18" of my colon was removed and I was able to be reconnected. I came close to needing a colostomy, but am thankful I didn't! It was a tough surgery, and I was in the hospital 8 days. 2 of 20 lymph nodes had cancer, and I was stage 3b.
My wonderful oncologist told me this type of cancer could be CURED. Because of my young age (44), I was given everything they could possibly throw at me! None of my chemos were reduced, even with bad side effects. Once he even let me get chemo when my counts were really low--the nurse had to go ask him if the orders were correct! But he knew my counts always bounced back quickly when I had a neupogen shot, so he wasn't worried! I think it made a difference that my onc knew me well enough to know that I really wanted to complete all the treatments. If I had said it was too hard and I wanted to back off a bit he probably would have, as I think he would have respected my wishes. Same thing with radiation. That was even more difficult, and I was told I didn't need to finish, but it was important to me to finish those last 3, and I did! Although, I have to say, I never realized all the side effects I would have to live with!
Sometimes I have a hard time remembering how awful it all was, and other times I remember too well! I get frustrated dealing with painful side effects, but mostly, I am just so glad to be living life, cancer free. I am enjoying my children and grandchildren. My girls are such a blessing to me! They really stepped up and did everything they could to help me get through those tough days of cancer treatment. I'm sure it was hard to watch their mom get cancer TWICE. They are amazing young women!
Enough reminiscing...my 6 month CT scans are coming up next Monday, Feb. 18th. I'll also get my labs done that day too. Then the following week I see my oncologist and have a mammogram. This coming Thurs. (the 14th) I'll see my colorectal surgeon about the fistula, and I'm thinking I'll have to have surgery on that soon. That is a side effect from surgery and radiation. :(
1 more year and I'll hit that 5 year mark! I'm going to ask Dr. J about being 'cured'; if that still fits my case or not. I don't remember if the breast cancer will ever be considered cured--maybe because I was only stage 2b, I can be cured of that too. I'm not sure--I hope I remember to ask! April 1st will be 3 years from the breast cancer diagnosis.
Life goes on, and God is good! :)
Love,
Tina
Like I said, things moved quickly. My CT scan didn't show any other areas of cancer (except a possible lymph node). My gastro doc also contacted a surgeon, and an appt. to see him was scheduled, then my pre-op, then the surgery on Feb. 20th, just 2 weeks later. During surgery, 18" of my colon was removed and I was able to be reconnected. I came close to needing a colostomy, but am thankful I didn't! It was a tough surgery, and I was in the hospital 8 days. 2 of 20 lymph nodes had cancer, and I was stage 3b.
My wonderful oncologist told me this type of cancer could be CURED. Because of my young age (44), I was given everything they could possibly throw at me! None of my chemos were reduced, even with bad side effects. Once he even let me get chemo when my counts were really low--the nurse had to go ask him if the orders were correct! But he knew my counts always bounced back quickly when I had a neupogen shot, so he wasn't worried! I think it made a difference that my onc knew me well enough to know that I really wanted to complete all the treatments. If I had said it was too hard and I wanted to back off a bit he probably would have, as I think he would have respected my wishes. Same thing with radiation. That was even more difficult, and I was told I didn't need to finish, but it was important to me to finish those last 3, and I did! Although, I have to say, I never realized all the side effects I would have to live with!
Sometimes I have a hard time remembering how awful it all was, and other times I remember too well! I get frustrated dealing with painful side effects, but mostly, I am just so glad to be living life, cancer free. I am enjoying my children and grandchildren. My girls are such a blessing to me! They really stepped up and did everything they could to help me get through those tough days of cancer treatment. I'm sure it was hard to watch their mom get cancer TWICE. They are amazing young women!
Enough reminiscing...my 6 month CT scans are coming up next Monday, Feb. 18th. I'll also get my labs done that day too. Then the following week I see my oncologist and have a mammogram. This coming Thurs. (the 14th) I'll see my colorectal surgeon about the fistula, and I'm thinking I'll have to have surgery on that soon. That is a side effect from surgery and radiation. :(
1 more year and I'll hit that 5 year mark! I'm going to ask Dr. J about being 'cured'; if that still fits my case or not. I don't remember if the breast cancer will ever be considered cured--maybe because I was only stage 2b, I can be cured of that too. I'm not sure--I hope I remember to ask! April 1st will be 3 years from the breast cancer diagnosis.
Life goes on, and God is good! :)
Love,
Tina
Monday, December 3, 2012
Scope Day
I had my colonoscopy today and it's all clear! I'm good for FIVE years! Woo-hoo! Last time it was 3 years, and now I've advanced to 5. I am so glad, because the prep was really rough. A person who has had 18" of their colon removed responds differently to the prep. Next time the prep will be modified to avoid all the painful cramping! I still have some nausea this evening, so have been taking it easy. Resting a lot, drinking lots of water, and not eating too much yet.
I was able to watch the procedure on the monitor, and I clearly saw the radiated part of my colon. It's very red looking, and bleeds easily. I was told this at my last scope too, but this time I saw it more clearly. It's not inflamed, so that is good.
I'm just so glad it's over with. It's been a miserable 2 days!
Guess who needs to get his done this next year? Yep! Hubby turns 50 soon! Anyone else that is reading this that is 50 or over, and has not had their colonoscopy yet, GET IT DONE! Call your primary physician, and get it set up asap! And if you have any changes to your bowel habits, or mucus and/or blood, get to your Dr. now and get it checked out! Colon cancer can be cured if it is found early enough. I waited about 18 months before I told my Dr. about my problems. I had some other medical problems I wanted to take care of first. I sure wish I hadn't waited. I still would've had cancer, but I may have been able to skip the radiation--boy wouldn't that be nice if I didn't have to deal with those side effects!
Love and Blessings!
Tina
I was able to watch the procedure on the monitor, and I clearly saw the radiated part of my colon. It's very red looking, and bleeds easily. I was told this at my last scope too, but this time I saw it more clearly. It's not inflamed, so that is good.
I'm just so glad it's over with. It's been a miserable 2 days!
Guess who needs to get his done this next year? Yep! Hubby turns 50 soon! Anyone else that is reading this that is 50 or over, and has not had their colonoscopy yet, GET IT DONE! Call your primary physician, and get it set up asap! And if you have any changes to your bowel habits, or mucus and/or blood, get to your Dr. now and get it checked out! Colon cancer can be cured if it is found early enough. I waited about 18 months before I told my Dr. about my problems. I had some other medical problems I wanted to take care of first. I sure wish I hadn't waited. I still would've had cancer, but I may have been able to skip the radiation--boy wouldn't that be nice if I didn't have to deal with those side effects!
Love and Blessings!
Tina
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Another Update
Well, don't know if anyone is out there reading this any more, but thought it was time for an update. I've written blog posts in my head many times, but for some reason I just haven't taken the time to actually write it here!
As always, I'll start with a health update. I saw both my colorectal surgeon (Dr.T) and my oncologist (Dr. J) a few weeks ago. The fistula has been bleeding more, and apparently something came loose, and Dr.T fixed it. I found out she does colonoscopies (I had been going to a gastro doc for my previous scopes) and told her I'd like to see her for my next one, which is due in March. Because there has been some bleeding, Dr. T. said insurance wouldn't have a problem with doing it sooner, and she figured my deductible has probably been met for the year, so we may as well get it done. She assured me, a couple of times, that she doesn't think the bleeding means there is anything wrong, and I agree. Because of the radiation damage and fistula, there will always be some bleeding. So, I am scheduled to have my colonoscopy next Monday, Dec. 3rd (yikes!).
My 3 month check up with Dr. J went well. My blood tests are all ok, although my hemoglobin and red blood cell count both dropped a little. Dr. J wasn't too concerned, and I told him I started taking a daily iron pill. He checked my reflexes this time, and my wrists and knees were fine, but my ankles still don't respond. This is from the neuropathy in my feet. I've been noticing that my balance seems slightly worse. Just small things, nothing major. This is probably from the neuropathy also. I told him next time I see him (in 3 months) I'll be 4 years out from my diagnosis of colon cancer (and 3 years from breast cancer). He said that if the cancer does return, it wouldn't be as aggressive as a cancer that came back sooner. He still wants to do scans every 6 months, so if anything does turn up we would be able to fight it aggressively, because I am still young and healthy (I love hearing that I am young!). Dr. J also asked if I have been exercising, which the answer is an obvious no. I think that was his gentle way of telling me he noticed I've been gaining weight. This weight thing is so frustrating! My metabolism is almost non-existent! Oh well...I'll just have to try harder!
Up until about 2 weeks ago I had been in a lot of pain (backside issues). Sometimes it gets me a bit down. You'd think after nearly 4 years I would have figured out what causes the 'bad' days. All I know is I have more bad days than good. Although, whenever I have a stretch of good (like now), I hope that this will become the norm, and not the bad days!
I find there are still a lot of things that bring me back to my chemo days. Thankfully, the nausea doesn't come back though. For instance, today I heated up a bowl of leftover mashed potatoes, and it reminded me of how I ate them a lot during chemo. I could almost feel that fog I was in for so many days each round of chemo. There are reminders almost daily.
I always try to make sure people know (both those that are recently dx'd with cancer, and those that don't have it) that when the treatment stops, things don't go back to "normal". This is where the term "new normal" really fits. Because side effects, pain, psychological effects, are all a part of my life now. I don't mean that to sound so bad, because I truly am grateful to be here and be cancer free. But I think people need to know, so they can understand what they might go through, or what someone else might be dealing with.
God has answered so many prayers recently for my family and me. I'm going to press in and pray for healing for my pain issues. I've been praying for help with my fatigue, and I am feeling a bit better. I just get busy and unfortunately don't have much energy left to spend time in God's Word as much as I should. I really need to do that more...there is nothing like the feeling I get when I spend time with God!
Family update: it's been so long since I blogged, I forgot I never wrote about my new granddaughter! Alyssa and Jaren had their baby on 10/15, 3 weeks early, but she was considered full term. They named her Selah ("say-la") Marie. Selah is a musical term in Psalms that means to pause, or pause and reflect. She is a beautiful little girl, and the new family is doing great. They have plenty of babysitters to help them out! Here is a picture of Selah, and one of my grandsons:
Aren't they cute? Charlie is doing so well! He is standing by himself in this picture! He can walk with a walker. It's hard to believe he is the same tiny 3 and a half year old that came to us from Ukraine. What a gift he is! Brennan is as smart as ever, and at the age of 3 he is reading a few words! Love my babies!
Shonna is doing great at college--she just registered for spring sem. I LOVE having her back in MN!
Thanks for reading! Let me know if there is anything I can do for any of you readers--be sure to contact me if you have questions about cancer (chemo, radiation, breast, colon, etc., etc.) OR if you want info about adopting a beautiful child from an orphanage. Or maybe you want to know how you can help a child other ways besides adopting. Please ask! You can e-mail me at nuttyoaks@gmaildotcom. You can also send me prayer requests, and I'll be happy to pray for you or send you some helpful Bible verses. :)
God bless!
Tina
As always, I'll start with a health update. I saw both my colorectal surgeon (Dr.T) and my oncologist (Dr. J) a few weeks ago. The fistula has been bleeding more, and apparently something came loose, and Dr.T fixed it. I found out she does colonoscopies (I had been going to a gastro doc for my previous scopes) and told her I'd like to see her for my next one, which is due in March. Because there has been some bleeding, Dr. T. said insurance wouldn't have a problem with doing it sooner, and she figured my deductible has probably been met for the year, so we may as well get it done. She assured me, a couple of times, that she doesn't think the bleeding means there is anything wrong, and I agree. Because of the radiation damage and fistula, there will always be some bleeding. So, I am scheduled to have my colonoscopy next Monday, Dec. 3rd (yikes!).
My 3 month check up with Dr. J went well. My blood tests are all ok, although my hemoglobin and red blood cell count both dropped a little. Dr. J wasn't too concerned, and I told him I started taking a daily iron pill. He checked my reflexes this time, and my wrists and knees were fine, but my ankles still don't respond. This is from the neuropathy in my feet. I've been noticing that my balance seems slightly worse. Just small things, nothing major. This is probably from the neuropathy also. I told him next time I see him (in 3 months) I'll be 4 years out from my diagnosis of colon cancer (and 3 years from breast cancer). He said that if the cancer does return, it wouldn't be as aggressive as a cancer that came back sooner. He still wants to do scans every 6 months, so if anything does turn up we would be able to fight it aggressively, because I am still young and healthy (I love hearing that I am young!). Dr. J also asked if I have been exercising, which the answer is an obvious no. I think that was his gentle way of telling me he noticed I've been gaining weight. This weight thing is so frustrating! My metabolism is almost non-existent! Oh well...I'll just have to try harder!
Up until about 2 weeks ago I had been in a lot of pain (backside issues). Sometimes it gets me a bit down. You'd think after nearly 4 years I would have figured out what causes the 'bad' days. All I know is I have more bad days than good. Although, whenever I have a stretch of good (like now), I hope that this will become the norm, and not the bad days!
I find there are still a lot of things that bring me back to my chemo days. Thankfully, the nausea doesn't come back though. For instance, today I heated up a bowl of leftover mashed potatoes, and it reminded me of how I ate them a lot during chemo. I could almost feel that fog I was in for so many days each round of chemo. There are reminders almost daily.
I always try to make sure people know (both those that are recently dx'd with cancer, and those that don't have it) that when the treatment stops, things don't go back to "normal". This is where the term "new normal" really fits. Because side effects, pain, psychological effects, are all a part of my life now. I don't mean that to sound so bad, because I truly am grateful to be here and be cancer free. But I think people need to know, so they can understand what they might go through, or what someone else might be dealing with.
God has answered so many prayers recently for my family and me. I'm going to press in and pray for healing for my pain issues. I've been praying for help with my fatigue, and I am feeling a bit better. I just get busy and unfortunately don't have much energy left to spend time in God's Word as much as I should. I really need to do that more...there is nothing like the feeling I get when I spend time with God!
Family update: it's been so long since I blogged, I forgot I never wrote about my new granddaughter! Alyssa and Jaren had their baby on 10/15, 3 weeks early, but she was considered full term. They named her Selah ("say-la") Marie. Selah is a musical term in Psalms that means to pause, or pause and reflect. She is a beautiful little girl, and the new family is doing great. They have plenty of babysitters to help them out! Here is a picture of Selah, and one of my grandsons:
Shonna is doing great at college--she just registered for spring sem. I LOVE having her back in MN!
Thanks for reading! Let me know if there is anything I can do for any of you readers--be sure to contact me if you have questions about cancer (chemo, radiation, breast, colon, etc., etc.) OR if you want info about adopting a beautiful child from an orphanage. Or maybe you want to know how you can help a child other ways besides adopting. Please ask! You can e-mail me at nuttyoaks@gmaildotcom. You can also send me prayer requests, and I'll be happy to pray for you or send you some helpful Bible verses. :)
God bless!
Tina
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Herceptin #13 Update
Wow, it's been 2 weeks since I posted last! I think about it a lot, I just don't like taking the time to do it!
Last week I had another MUGA scan (for heart function). My heart function was 65% before I started treatment (which is very good), and after starting Herceptin it went down to 51. Then my onc. put me on Enalapril (a blood pressure med), and my heart function has increased to 56! And I haven't had any side effects from the med. I was worried about my bp dropping too low, but I am on a very low dose and am tolerating it well.
Other good news--my hemoglobin finally made it up to 12, which is the bottom of the normal range. It hasn't been normal since last April.
We scheduled some upcoming tests--a CT scan and another MUGA on Feb. 21st (6 weeks), and an MRI and mammogram sometime in April. The CT scan is for the colon cancer--to watch for a recurrence. My onc. wants me to have them every 6 months for awhile. He said because I'm so young, he wants to make sure if anything does show up again we catch it early. He did say, though, that he thinks we did a pretty good job of fighting it so it shouldn't come back!
I do not need another colonoscopy for 2 years (3 years from my last one), and after this mammo and mri I won't need another one for a year.
Some side effects I still have are neuropathy (numbness) in my fingers and feet, and just tired and out of shape! I am starting to work on building my strength and stamina. I have a lot of damage from the colon cancer radiation, and also issues that have to do with missing 18" of my colon! These are annoyances that I will have to live with, although they may get better with time. I am also praying that God will take these problems away and restore to me what cancer has taken. I can be very persistent! I also need to continue to stretch my left arm and shoulder, or it quickly stiffens up. When I had my MUGA last week I had to have my left arm above my head for 10 minutes and that really hurt! Stretching helps a lot, I guess I just have to keep doing it!
I am very pleased with how well my skin did with radiation. I was expecting much worse! The scar area peeled, but it didn't hurt. The whole area, including by the clavicle, is tan looking, and will probably always be that way. I will need to protect it with sunscreen anytime it's exposed (like with tank tops and scoop neck tops) for the rest of my life.
Family update: Shonna is still here on break. She goes back to KC this weekend. Alyssa and Jaren will be leaving on a mission trip next weekend (the 22nd). Rachel and Ken are almost ready to submit all their paperwork to the country they are adopting from. Hopefully they will get to go over sometime in March or April. They have to wait for the country to contact them with the date.
Life is good! God is better!!
Love and blessings!
Tina
Last week I had another MUGA scan (for heart function). My heart function was 65% before I started treatment (which is very good), and after starting Herceptin it went down to 51. Then my onc. put me on Enalapril (a blood pressure med), and my heart function has increased to 56! And I haven't had any side effects from the med. I was worried about my bp dropping too low, but I am on a very low dose and am tolerating it well.
Other good news--my hemoglobin finally made it up to 12, which is the bottom of the normal range. It hasn't been normal since last April.
We scheduled some upcoming tests--a CT scan and another MUGA on Feb. 21st (6 weeks), and an MRI and mammogram sometime in April. The CT scan is for the colon cancer--to watch for a recurrence. My onc. wants me to have them every 6 months for awhile. He said because I'm so young, he wants to make sure if anything does show up again we catch it early. He did say, though, that he thinks we did a pretty good job of fighting it so it shouldn't come back!
I do not need another colonoscopy for 2 years (3 years from my last one), and after this mammo and mri I won't need another one for a year.
Some side effects I still have are neuropathy (numbness) in my fingers and feet, and just tired and out of shape! I am starting to work on building my strength and stamina. I have a lot of damage from the colon cancer radiation, and also issues that have to do with missing 18" of my colon! These are annoyances that I will have to live with, although they may get better with time. I am also praying that God will take these problems away and restore to me what cancer has taken. I can be very persistent! I also need to continue to stretch my left arm and shoulder, or it quickly stiffens up. When I had my MUGA last week I had to have my left arm above my head for 10 minutes and that really hurt! Stretching helps a lot, I guess I just have to keep doing it!
I am very pleased with how well my skin did with radiation. I was expecting much worse! The scar area peeled, but it didn't hurt. The whole area, including by the clavicle, is tan looking, and will probably always be that way. I will need to protect it with sunscreen anytime it's exposed (like with tank tops and scoop neck tops) for the rest of my life.
Family update: Shonna is still here on break. She goes back to KC this weekend. Alyssa and Jaren will be leaving on a mission trip next weekend (the 22nd). Rachel and Ken are almost ready to submit all their paperwork to the country they are adopting from. Hopefully they will get to go over sometime in March or April. They have to wait for the country to contact them with the date.
Life is good! God is better!!
Love and blessings!
Tina
Friday, March 5, 2010
Good Lookin' Colon
Had my colonoscopy today. I'm so glad I can finally eat something other than Jell-o! The gastro doc (Dr. Jafri) talked to me about my surgery before he did the procedure and we talked about bleeding. He said radiation can often cause bleeding in the colon years later. It seems I'm always finding out something about the radiation that I didn't know before. Many effects are life-long. During the colonoscopy he showed me where the surgery was and we saw some of the red spots that cause bleeding from the radiation. There is a name for the condition--but I'm too lazy to go get my report now to look it up! If anyone REALLY wants to know--just ask and I'll let you know. The red spots are actually little blood vessels close to the surface and they bleed easily with any irritation or pressure.
I've heard that many people sleep through the procedure, but even though I get Fentynal and Versed (sp?), I always stay awake. They gave me an extra bump today during the test because it got a little uncomfortable. I probably didn't need any more drugs, but as soon as they see you're uncomfortable they quickly give you more!
I wondered why I needed to get a colonoscopy so soon--nothing has had a chance to grow in there yet. But it was good to take a look to make sure everything was ok after the surgery and radiation. Dr. Jafri wants me back in 3 years, but we'll see what my oncologist, Dr. Jahagirdar, wants. Hopefully he'll agree with Dr. Jafri!
Afterward we went to Perkins for breakfast. I didn't eat very much because my stomach was really hurting and bloated. We came home and I laid in bed, watched my soap, and fell asleep. Rich napped with me too for awhile. I feel pretty good now--but my tummy is still making lots of noise!
Well, that was probably more info than you wanted! I'm the type that likes lots of details when I read someone's blog--maybe some of you are that way too. :)
Blessings to all!
Tina
I've heard that many people sleep through the procedure, but even though I get Fentynal and Versed (sp?), I always stay awake. They gave me an extra bump today during the test because it got a little uncomfortable. I probably didn't need any more drugs, but as soon as they see you're uncomfortable they quickly give you more!
I wondered why I needed to get a colonoscopy so soon--nothing has had a chance to grow in there yet. But it was good to take a look to make sure everything was ok after the surgery and radiation. Dr. Jafri wants me back in 3 years, but we'll see what my oncologist, Dr. Jahagirdar, wants. Hopefully he'll agree with Dr. Jafri!
Afterward we went to Perkins for breakfast. I didn't eat very much because my stomach was really hurting and bloated. We came home and I laid in bed, watched my soap, and fell asleep. Rich napped with me too for awhile. I feel pretty good now--but my tummy is still making lots of noise!
Well, that was probably more info than you wanted! I'm the type that likes lots of details when I read someone's blog--maybe some of you are that way too. :)
Blessings to all!
Tina
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Hungry!
Today I am home from work prepping for my colonoscopy tomorrow. I have been eating Jell-o, and drinking water, juice, tea, coffee. None of which has taken the edge off my hunger! My stomach is protesting--loudly! I have no energy, (even typing this is a chore!), and am getting a headache--which, of course, I can't take anything for, because I have an empty tummy! Thank goodness its only one day!
Ok, enough of my whining. The procedure itself isn't bad (esp. after they give you some "happy" drugs!), and should be interesting to see what the old colon looks like now that it is 18" shorter! I wonder if I'll be able to see where the surgeon reconnected it?
March is Colon Cancer Awareness month, and tomorrow (Friday, March 5th) is Dress in Blue Day, to raise awareness of this killer disease. Colon Cancer is the 2nd leading cancer killer in America! But its "Preventable, Treatable, Beatable" especially if caught early. Which is why you need to get your colonoscopy at 50 years old, and earlier if you have any unusual symptoms. I don't care how young you are, if you have changes in your bowels (blood and/or mucus in the stool, frequency, etc.) demand to get a colonoscopy done. I've heard stories of docs not recommending a colonoscopy because of a person's age--only to have that person find out much later (too late, in some cases) that they have colon cancer. Be an advocate for yourself--insist that you get one!
Well, I went back to work this week. I work 5 hours a day at the elementary school nearby. I work in first grade and kindergarten, and also do lunch and recess supervision. Thankfully, its been near or above 40 degrees each day this week, so being outside hasn't been too bad. Bright, sunny, and refreshing!
On my first day back my feet, legs, and hips hurt really bad by the end of the day. But it has gotten better each day. Learning all the kindergartner's names is definitely a challenge with my "chemo brain"! It was great seeing all my co-workers, and I got many hugs from the kids! I was a little nervous about starting back again, but once I got there, it felt as if I never left!
I have my stereotactic biopsy scheduled for Monday, March 29th. That is the first day of my Spring Break. The radiologist will be taking a sample of the calcifications in my left breast to see if its cancerous. Not too worried about the results, like I said before--I'm more annoyed than worried!
Why couldn't I have gotten cancer in my pinkie, or some other place that I could keep my clothes on for the tests? Sheesh! Oh well, I won't actually die from embarrassment, but I could die from undetected cancer! So better to suffer through the tests, than the alternative!
Wear blue tomorrow everyone!!
Love,
Tina
Ok, enough of my whining. The procedure itself isn't bad (esp. after they give you some "happy" drugs!), and should be interesting to see what the old colon looks like now that it is 18" shorter! I wonder if I'll be able to see where the surgeon reconnected it?
March is Colon Cancer Awareness month, and tomorrow (Friday, March 5th) is Dress in Blue Day, to raise awareness of this killer disease. Colon Cancer is the 2nd leading cancer killer in America! But its "Preventable, Treatable, Beatable" especially if caught early. Which is why you need to get your colonoscopy at 50 years old, and earlier if you have any unusual symptoms. I don't care how young you are, if you have changes in your bowels (blood and/or mucus in the stool, frequency, etc.) demand to get a colonoscopy done. I've heard stories of docs not recommending a colonoscopy because of a person's age--only to have that person find out much later (too late, in some cases) that they have colon cancer. Be an advocate for yourself--insist that you get one!
Well, I went back to work this week. I work 5 hours a day at the elementary school nearby. I work in first grade and kindergarten, and also do lunch and recess supervision. Thankfully, its been near or above 40 degrees each day this week, so being outside hasn't been too bad. Bright, sunny, and refreshing!
On my first day back my feet, legs, and hips hurt really bad by the end of the day. But it has gotten better each day. Learning all the kindergartner's names is definitely a challenge with my "chemo brain"! It was great seeing all my co-workers, and I got many hugs from the kids! I was a little nervous about starting back again, but once I got there, it felt as if I never left!
I have my stereotactic biopsy scheduled for Monday, March 29th. That is the first day of my Spring Break. The radiologist will be taking a sample of the calcifications in my left breast to see if its cancerous. Not too worried about the results, like I said before--I'm more annoyed than worried!
Why couldn't I have gotten cancer in my pinkie, or some other place that I could keep my clothes on for the tests? Sheesh! Oh well, I won't actually die from embarrassment, but I could die from undetected cancer! So better to suffer through the tests, than the alternative!
Wear blue tomorrow everyone!!
Love,
Tina
Friday, February 26, 2010
Well, this has been my last week off before I go back to work. It's been a busy couple of weeks! Looking at my calendar there is something written on almost everyday. Today was the first day in awhile that I didn't have anything planned. So I did laundry! And went out to lunch with Alyssa and Shonna--won't be able to do that for awhile!
Last Sunday my friend Pam wanted to get the elders of the church to pray for me. So after the service she tracked a few down and the senior pastor, Tom, anointed my head with oil and they prayed for me. It felt so awesome! I really have nothing to fear--God is watching over me, and He loves me and cares for me. I need to put on the full armor of God and stand strong against Satan!
Today I talked to my Primary doctor and she will set up the biopsy for the calcifications in my left breast. I told her I either want to do it during Spring Break (the end of March), or wait until school is out in June. She thought it best if I get it done during Spring Break. She didn't think it was a good idea to wait so long. So, I guess that's what I'll do! I just don't want to miss anymore work than I have to.
Next week I only work 3 days. We have Friday off so I scheduled my colonoscopy for then, but I need to take the day before (Thurs.) off to prep. Weird prep this time. Instead of just drinking the large jug of "go-litely" stuff, I have to mix Miralax with Gatorade, take 2 dulcolax pills, and drink some other stuff 4 hours before the test (which means I have to get up at 5am, because my test is at 9:15!). Sounds alot more complicated!
Really tired tonight. Not sure why--I don't think I slept too well last night. My mind was busy thinking about going back to work.
Brennan is cute as ever and getting big! I think he's over 16 pounds now. He's 5 months old today. He's getting strong. I've had the chance to babysit him a few times the last 2 weeks. That's the worst part about going back to work--now I won't be able to watch him for Rachel if she needs me during the day. Shonna's happy tho--she figures she'll get him more often now!
Alyssa and Jaren are doing well. He's back working as the CSO at our local police station. Alyssa had a bridal shower at Jaren's Godmother's house on Sat. It was very nice, and she got lots of great gifts.
Hope all is well with everyone!
Love,
Tina
Last Sunday my friend Pam wanted to get the elders of the church to pray for me. So after the service she tracked a few down and the senior pastor, Tom, anointed my head with oil and they prayed for me. It felt so awesome! I really have nothing to fear--God is watching over me, and He loves me and cares for me. I need to put on the full armor of God and stand strong against Satan!
Today I talked to my Primary doctor and she will set up the biopsy for the calcifications in my left breast. I told her I either want to do it during Spring Break (the end of March), or wait until school is out in June. She thought it best if I get it done during Spring Break. She didn't think it was a good idea to wait so long. So, I guess that's what I'll do! I just don't want to miss anymore work than I have to.
Next week I only work 3 days. We have Friday off so I scheduled my colonoscopy for then, but I need to take the day before (Thurs.) off to prep. Weird prep this time. Instead of just drinking the large jug of "go-litely" stuff, I have to mix Miralax with Gatorade, take 2 dulcolax pills, and drink some other stuff 4 hours before the test (which means I have to get up at 5am, because my test is at 9:15!). Sounds alot more complicated!
Really tired tonight. Not sure why--I don't think I slept too well last night. My mind was busy thinking about going back to work.
Brennan is cute as ever and getting big! I think he's over 16 pounds now. He's 5 months old today. He's getting strong. I've had the chance to babysit him a few times the last 2 weeks. That's the worst part about going back to work--now I won't be able to watch him for Rachel if she needs me during the day. Shonna's happy tho--she figures she'll get him more often now!
Alyssa and Jaren are doing well. He's back working as the CSO at our local police station. Alyssa had a bridal shower at Jaren's Godmother's house on Sat. It was very nice, and she got lots of great gifts.
Hope all is well with everyone!
Love,
Tina
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
I'm DONE!!!!!!!!!!!
The top picture is the certificate that the chemo nurses gave me for being done. The 2nd picture is the angels that have cared for me all these months. From left to right: Carol, Cheryl (my nurse for the first several rounds), me, Andrea (my main nurse for the last few months), and Sheryl. I've gotten to know all the nurses, as they all help each other out when one is at lunch or busy with another patient. They are all wonderful, as are the receptionists, and of course the doctors. Not a crabby one in the whole place. I highly recommend Regions Cancer Care Center!
I will have to go in every 4-6 weeks to get my port flushed. Andrea told me to make sure I bring in pictures of Baby Brennan! I'll keep the port at least until I have my ct scan (in 4 months), then I'll probably have it removed. What have others done? I'll have ct scans every 6months for awhile. Is it worth it to keep it in?
A few days before my scan, I'll see the doc and get blood tests done. He saw me in the infusion room today and said he didn't want to see me again for several weeks! I said "I don't want to see you either!", and we both laughed. I will miss all of them.
The end of Feb. I'll have my colonoscopy. The doc said depending on what things look like then, I would have one done every 1-3 years. I'm sort of glad to be having one done ( I know, I'm weird!), because I'm so curious to see what things look like after having 18" of my colon removed. My insides have been rearranged and I want to know what's going on in there! I'm hoping it won't hurt. I think sometimes it does after surgery because there might be scar tissue, or it might be narrower. The first one didn't hurt at all--but I'll never forget what that tumor looked like!
24 hours after I have the pump removed, Sat. afternoon, I'll do my last Neupogen shot. It will help keep my wbc from getting too low, and help me to stay healthy.
I've been warned several times that my neuropathy might take 6months or longer to go away. I'm hoping the cold sensitivity goes away enough in 4 weeks so I can stand outside for an hour doing recess at work. I'm supposed to go back to work on Tues. Feb. 16th--4 weeks from yesterday. I'm nervous about going back! I hope I'm not too tired after work, and I hope my chemo brain isn't too bad--I've forgotten alot of the kids' names! Plus I'll have to learn all new ones in Kindergarten. Thankfully the teachers and staff I work with are very kind and understanding!
Well, I've got about a week of yuckiness to get through, then when I start to feel better, I'll keep feeling better...and better, and better!
Here's to the rest of my life!! I'm praying that I'll be around for a long, long time!!
Love and Blessings to All!
Tina
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Low Platelets!
Yep, my platelets are low, just as the doc and I thought they would be. They were 96 last time, and that was almost too low, and this time they were 85. My wbc were high due to the shots. We will wait a week and try again! In the meantime, I will be enjoying feeling good! :)
I asked the doc today about my tumor. I reminded him that it was "moderately differentiated" (sp?), and asked him how long he thought it took to grow. He said it probably took about 5 years to grow and was moderately aggressive--sort of middle of the road. It started as a polyp, and that is why I will have a colonoscopy every 1-3 years, so if another polyp starts they will find it and remove it before it gets cancerous. As for the cancer spreading, the fact that it only made it to 2 lymph nodes is a good thing, and the doc said all the treatment I had should have gotten any remaining cancer cells. My prognosis looks pretty good. Just off the top of his head, he thinks I have at least a 75% chance of it NOT returning. He doesn't expect it to spread. So that was all good to hear!
We also talked about my neuropathy. Its there, but doesn't hurt, just tingles. Dr. J said it would be alot worse if I didn't have that break from Oxaliplatin over the summer during radiation. He checked to make sure I still had feeling in my fingers, and told me I should call him if it gets "bothersome". There are trials going on now to find something that works better. Apparently there is a hand cream they are trying out.
I'll have a colonoscopy the end of Feb., then I'll see the doc and have labs done in about 4 months. After that I'll have a ct scan. I asked about pet scans and he said its harder to see details on the pet scan and the ct works better for the colon. I'll continue to see the doc every 3 months after that, and ct scans every 6 months. Not sure how long that will go on. It was an interesting office visit!
I couldn't help thinking how weird it will be after my last chemo--when I start feeling good, I'll KEEP feeling good. It won't only be a few days of feeling good. And then I'll be able to put ice in all my drinks again, and eat sherbet...ahhh that'll be soooo good!
My plan is to start using the treadmill and eat healthier so I can regain my strength (I can hardly make it up a short flight of steps these days. My legs are really weak!), AND keep the weight off (and hopefully lose more!!) I should start this week!
I've also got to make a better plan for Bible reading. I've always struggled with having a set time, but I really should be reading it daily. So I've got some ideas to make that work.
So much to think about--no wonder I can't sleep some nights!
Oh--I took an Ativan before my appt. this morning, and didn't have any trouble with feeling nauseous after having my port wiped with alcohol, or getting the saline flush. I'll have to remember that before every port draw!
Speaking of ports, I will leave mine in at least until I have my ct scan. I don't know if I'll want to leave it in longer than that--we'll see.
That's all for now!
Thanks for all the well wishes and prayers!
Love,
Tina
I asked the doc today about my tumor. I reminded him that it was "moderately differentiated" (sp?), and asked him how long he thought it took to grow. He said it probably took about 5 years to grow and was moderately aggressive--sort of middle of the road. It started as a polyp, and that is why I will have a colonoscopy every 1-3 years, so if another polyp starts they will find it and remove it before it gets cancerous. As for the cancer spreading, the fact that it only made it to 2 lymph nodes is a good thing, and the doc said all the treatment I had should have gotten any remaining cancer cells. My prognosis looks pretty good. Just off the top of his head, he thinks I have at least a 75% chance of it NOT returning. He doesn't expect it to spread. So that was all good to hear!
We also talked about my neuropathy. Its there, but doesn't hurt, just tingles. Dr. J said it would be alot worse if I didn't have that break from Oxaliplatin over the summer during radiation. He checked to make sure I still had feeling in my fingers, and told me I should call him if it gets "bothersome". There are trials going on now to find something that works better. Apparently there is a hand cream they are trying out.
I'll have a colonoscopy the end of Feb., then I'll see the doc and have labs done in about 4 months. After that I'll have a ct scan. I asked about pet scans and he said its harder to see details on the pet scan and the ct works better for the colon. I'll continue to see the doc every 3 months after that, and ct scans every 6 months. Not sure how long that will go on. It was an interesting office visit!
I couldn't help thinking how weird it will be after my last chemo--when I start feeling good, I'll KEEP feeling good. It won't only be a few days of feeling good. And then I'll be able to put ice in all my drinks again, and eat sherbet...ahhh that'll be soooo good!
My plan is to start using the treadmill and eat healthier so I can regain my strength (I can hardly make it up a short flight of steps these days. My legs are really weak!), AND keep the weight off (and hopefully lose more!!) I should start this week!
I've also got to make a better plan for Bible reading. I've always struggled with having a set time, but I really should be reading it daily. So I've got some ideas to make that work.
So much to think about--no wonder I can't sleep some nights!
Oh--I took an Ativan before my appt. this morning, and didn't have any trouble with feeling nauseous after having my port wiped with alcohol, or getting the saline flush. I'll have to remember that before every port draw!
Speaking of ports, I will leave mine in at least until I have my ct scan. I don't know if I'll want to leave it in longer than that--we'll see.
That's all for now!
Thanks for all the well wishes and prayers!
Love,
Tina
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Round 3 Update
Hi!
Just a little update to let you all know how its going.
The "blahs" have kicked in. Had a hard time getting out of bed, and have been moving slow ever since! A bit more nausea today, have taken several different pills, and its better now (altho never completely gone!). Rich and I went out for lunch--unfortunately nothing tasted very good, but it was nice to be out of the house! Took a nap when we got back (with a little help from the Ativan pill!), and then watched an old Elvis movie. Rich has been putzing around the yard all day. Usually I'd keep him company, but I just don't have the energy, and its very chilly(only 53 now!) and super windy--so I'd have to wear the scarf and mittens! Hopefully this will be the last time its will be this chilly!? Tomorrow should be mid 60's and then 70's after that--yay!
I'm anticipating tomorrow to be worse, and maybe even Monday worse yet, because that's how it was last time. But I do know that each time can be different, so maybe it won't be so bad. I'll be praying about it too. God always gives me His peace when I take the time to talk with Him. Here is a passage from a friend's calendar that she sent me in an e-mail:
Trusting God completely means
having faith that He knows what is best for your life.
You expect Him to keep His promises, help you with problems,
and do THE IMPOSSIBLE when necessary.
The Lord your God is the faithful God
who for a thousand generations keep His promises.
Deuteronomy 7:9 tlb
I do trust God completely! And am so thankful for His love and mercy. It amazes me everyday!
I have been praying for some others I have found thru blogs that have colon cancer also. Some really have it rough. Their faith and strength are an inspiration to me to continue to be strong and fight. I'm young to have colon cancer (44), but one young gal is only only 19, and a few others are in their 20's and 30's and have young children. I pray for them often! So many stories start with a doc telling them they are too young for a colonoscopy, and then they waste time searching for other problems, and sometimes even being treated for other things, like colitis. By the time the doc (or a different, wiser doc) does the test, the cancer has spread! So, I BEG you--if you have bowel problems (any bleeding at all, or changes in bowel habits) DON'T WAIT! Insist on getting a colonoscopy. Its an easy procedure-- not bad at all!
Take care everyone!
Love and blessings to you!
Tina
Just a little update to let you all know how its going.
The "blahs" have kicked in. Had a hard time getting out of bed, and have been moving slow ever since! A bit more nausea today, have taken several different pills, and its better now (altho never completely gone!). Rich and I went out for lunch--unfortunately nothing tasted very good, but it was nice to be out of the house! Took a nap when we got back (with a little help from the Ativan pill!), and then watched an old Elvis movie. Rich has been putzing around the yard all day. Usually I'd keep him company, but I just don't have the energy, and its very chilly(only 53 now!) and super windy--so I'd have to wear the scarf and mittens! Hopefully this will be the last time its will be this chilly!? Tomorrow should be mid 60's and then 70's after that--yay!
I'm anticipating tomorrow to be worse, and maybe even Monday worse yet, because that's how it was last time. But I do know that each time can be different, so maybe it won't be so bad. I'll be praying about it too. God always gives me His peace when I take the time to talk with Him. Here is a passage from a friend's calendar that she sent me in an e-mail:
Trusting God completely means
having faith that He knows what is best for your life.
You expect Him to keep His promises, help you with problems,
and do THE IMPOSSIBLE when necessary.
The Lord your God is the faithful God
who for a thousand generations keep His promises.
Deuteronomy 7:9 tlb
I do trust God completely! And am so thankful for His love and mercy. It amazes me everyday!
I have been praying for some others I have found thru blogs that have colon cancer also. Some really have it rough. Their faith and strength are an inspiration to me to continue to be strong and fight. I'm young to have colon cancer (44), but one young gal is only only 19, and a few others are in their 20's and 30's and have young children. I pray for them often! So many stories start with a doc telling them they are too young for a colonoscopy, and then they waste time searching for other problems, and sometimes even being treated for other things, like colitis. By the time the doc (or a different, wiser doc) does the test, the cancer has spread! So, I BEG you--if you have bowel problems (any bleeding at all, or changes in bowel habits) DON'T WAIT! Insist on getting a colonoscopy. Its an easy procedure-- not bad at all!
Take care everyone!
Love and blessings to you!
Tina
Thursday, February 12, 2009
What a week!
I'll start at the beginning...
Last Friday, the 6th of Feb., I had a colonoscopy done due to some problems I was having. Since everyone asks, I'll tell you the main problems I was having--blood and mucus in the stool. Sorry if you didn't want to know that, but so many people have asked. And if you have these problems you'll know not to wait and get it checked out ASAP!! Anyways, the doc found a tumor in my colon. He set me up for a CT scan that afternoon, and made an appt. with a surgeon for the following Thurs. (which was today).
On Tues. the doc called me and said the tumor is cancerous, but there were no other tumors on the scan.
Today I met the surgeon. He's a nice enough guy. The nurse said I'll be in good hands. She, Michelle, was REALLY nice, and spent alot of time with us, answering all our questions and going over everything with us. Rich went with me, of course. (He's been by my side through this all, and I know its hard on him too.) After spending alot of time with Michelle, I had to have some blood drawn (pre-op stuff), and got a chest x-ray.
The surgery will be done next Friday, the 2oth of February. Apparently there were a couple other "nodules" on the scan that I didn't know about. Well, one I did, and the doc thinks it might just be a fatty deposit, but the other one is near the tumor and the surgeon thinks it could be a lymph node. He'll find them both during the surgery and remove if necessary. The location of the tumor is in an "ok" place. Not the best, and not the worst. The surgeon (His name is Dr. Wolpert) thinks he'll be able to reconstruct everything, but there are no guarantees. He expects to remove about 12 inches of my colon.
I'll be in the hospital (Regions)5-7 days, and unable to work about 6 weeks(!). I'll have the results of the tests from the removed tissue and lymph nodes 2-3 days after surgery. That is when they'll have all the info they need to stage the cancer. From there we'll decide whether I need an oncologist, and whether I'll need chemo. Dr Wolpert said chemo is quite common for colon cancer. Some people even need radiation too.
I'm holding up ok. This has all happened so fast! Today was really tough. Surgery scares me. For you prayer warriors, I'm praying that the cancer hasn't spread, that the "nodule" is just some blip--or gone by the time he gets in there! And I really just need peace. My biggest fear, of course, is the colostomy. I don't want to live with one for the rest of my life!!
God is with me, and no matter what happens, remember He is good! ALL THE TIME!!
AMEN
Love ya all,
Tina
Last Friday, the 6th of Feb., I had a colonoscopy done due to some problems I was having. Since everyone asks, I'll tell you the main problems I was having--blood and mucus in the stool. Sorry if you didn't want to know that, but so many people have asked. And if you have these problems you'll know not to wait and get it checked out ASAP!! Anyways, the doc found a tumor in my colon. He set me up for a CT scan that afternoon, and made an appt. with a surgeon for the following Thurs. (which was today).
On Tues. the doc called me and said the tumor is cancerous, but there were no other tumors on the scan.
Today I met the surgeon. He's a nice enough guy. The nurse said I'll be in good hands. She, Michelle, was REALLY nice, and spent alot of time with us, answering all our questions and going over everything with us. Rich went with me, of course. (He's been by my side through this all, and I know its hard on him too.) After spending alot of time with Michelle, I had to have some blood drawn (pre-op stuff), and got a chest x-ray.
The surgery will be done next Friday, the 2oth of February. Apparently there were a couple other "nodules" on the scan that I didn't know about. Well, one I did, and the doc thinks it might just be a fatty deposit, but the other one is near the tumor and the surgeon thinks it could be a lymph node. He'll find them both during the surgery and remove if necessary. The location of the tumor is in an "ok" place. Not the best, and not the worst. The surgeon (His name is Dr. Wolpert) thinks he'll be able to reconstruct everything, but there are no guarantees. He expects to remove about 12 inches of my colon.
I'll be in the hospital (Regions)5-7 days, and unable to work about 6 weeks(!). I'll have the results of the tests from the removed tissue and lymph nodes 2-3 days after surgery. That is when they'll have all the info they need to stage the cancer. From there we'll decide whether I need an oncologist, and whether I'll need chemo. Dr Wolpert said chemo is quite common for colon cancer. Some people even need radiation too.
I'm holding up ok. This has all happened so fast! Today was really tough. Surgery scares me. For you prayer warriors, I'm praying that the cancer hasn't spread, that the "nodule" is just some blip--or gone by the time he gets in there! And I really just need peace. My biggest fear, of course, is the colostomy. I don't want to live with one for the rest of my life!!
God is with me, and no matter what happens, remember He is good! ALL THE TIME!!
AMEN
Love ya all,
Tina
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