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 oncologist. Show all posts
Showing posts with label oncologist. Show all posts
Friday, March 7, 2014
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Feb. 2013 Visit With Oncologist
Saw my favorite Dr. today! Dr. J, my oncologist, had a "Fellow' with him, as usual. Dr. J points out to the Fellow all my oddities. Gee, glad I could be of help! :)
I brought a little list of questions today. I asked him about supplements. He doesn't think I need to take separate D, B complex, etc. He thinks I should just take a good women's multi-vitamin. The subject of vitamins came up because I told him I was eating a low residue diet to try to slow down my bowels, and make things more "normal". He was concerned I wasn't getting enough nutrition if I wasn't eating fruits and vegetables. I have been concerned about that too. This low residue diet has helped, but not completely changed things as I had hoped, so I think I will start adding back in fruits and veggies (not that I ate that many to begin with! But I was trying!). I will stay away from raw carrots (because I know they are a problem), and nuts and seeds. I think tomato sauce might be a problem too, so I'm going to try to avoid that for awhile.
Dr. J thought it would be a good idea if I took a baby aspirin every day. He said it helps prevent colon cancer in some people with some certain type of cells. They don't usually test to see if a person has those cells, but he said the baby aspirin is beneficial for other things too, so I can just go ahead and take it.
I asked him about damage to my bones from all the chemo I had, and that, combined with the fact that I am in menopause (early, thanks to radiation!), is reason to have a bone density test. So, now I have to schedule one of those. I've never had one, but I think they are pretty easy.
Other than that, he said my labs all look great. We talked about my fatigue again--I mentioned I planned on talking to my PCP about it, and Dr. J thought that was a good idea. He did say, again, that with all the chemo and radiation I've had my body took a pretty good hit, so he's not too surprised by my fatigue. I just want it to go away!
Dr. J always asks about my family and grandkids, and especially my adopted grandson. And he asks about Rich. He's a great oncologist!
When I get my labs done in 3 months I won't need to see him. I'll see him again in 6 months when I have a ct scan, mri, and labs.
My mammogram is in 2 days, but I won't update about that, unless, of course, there is a problem!
Love and blessings to all!
Tina
I brought a little list of questions today. I asked him about supplements. He doesn't think I need to take separate D, B complex, etc. He thinks I should just take a good women's multi-vitamin. The subject of vitamins came up because I told him I was eating a low residue diet to try to slow down my bowels, and make things more "normal". He was concerned I wasn't getting enough nutrition if I wasn't eating fruits and vegetables. I have been concerned about that too. This low residue diet has helped, but not completely changed things as I had hoped, so I think I will start adding back in fruits and veggies (not that I ate that many to begin with! But I was trying!). I will stay away from raw carrots (because I know they are a problem), and nuts and seeds. I think tomato sauce might be a problem too, so I'm going to try to avoid that for awhile.
Dr. J thought it would be a good idea if I took a baby aspirin every day. He said it helps prevent colon cancer in some people with some certain type of cells. They don't usually test to see if a person has those cells, but he said the baby aspirin is beneficial for other things too, so I can just go ahead and take it.
I asked him about damage to my bones from all the chemo I had, and that, combined with the fact that I am in menopause (early, thanks to radiation!), is reason to have a bone density test. So, now I have to schedule one of those. I've never had one, but I think they are pretty easy.
Other than that, he said my labs all look great. We talked about my fatigue again--I mentioned I planned on talking to my PCP about it, and Dr. J thought that was a good idea. He did say, again, that with all the chemo and radiation I've had my body took a pretty good hit, so he's not too surprised by my fatigue. I just want it to go away!
Dr. J always asks about my family and grandkids, and especially my adopted grandson. And he asks about Rich. He's a great oncologist!
When I get my labs done in 3 months I won't need to see him. I'll see him again in 6 months when I have a ct scan, mri, and labs.
My mammogram is in 2 days, but I won't update about that, unless, of course, there is a problem!
Love and blessings to all!
Tina
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Update on Scans and Labs
Hello!
Just wanted to do a quick update about my CT scans and lab tests I had done last Monday. By Monday evening I already had the results! Everything looks good! My hemoglobin is up a little (finally--I've been taking iron pills!). My platelets are at the low end of the range, and have been since surgery. Before that they were much higher. I'm going to ask my oncologist about that when I see him on Tues. I have a list of things in my head that I want to ask him--I really need to write these questions down!
I will have another little surgery on my backside on March 8th. Not going to do any major surgery on the fistula yet. My surgeon can't guarantee the outcome, so we will hold off as long as possible. There is a chance it might close up on it's own, eventually.
I had to miss another day of work due to my 'digestive system'. The barium stuff I have to drink for the CT scan really messes me up, and I spent most of the evening and into the night in the bathroom. I wasn't able to go to work the next day either. I think that's 5 days I've missed this school year related to my cancer treatment/side effects. Then I missed 4 days due to illness recently too--first a stomach bug, then a cold/chest/cough thing. I don't usually get those type of viruses, so it was weird to get them one right after another. I've already used up the 10 days I get per school year! I'm praying I don't miss any more this year!
It's a relief to have my scans done and over with. I was getting a little nervous this time. I couldn't shake the feeling that 'this might be it'. On the way to the hospital to get my tests done, as I was driving, I was praying and praying. And I was asking forgiveness for the fear, because I knew I shouldn't be afraid--I should be trusting in God. Finally, I realized where the fear was coming from and I said out loud "Satan, you can't touch this! I am a child of the Most High King, and covered by the blood of the Lamb! I have no cancer in me, and I will trust in God and not be afraid!". I felt soooo much better after declaring that for the devil to hear. He fled and I was filled with peace! I was able to be joyful the rest of the day, which I think was nice for those around me in the hospital. That can be a very stressful place, and I made sure I smiled at everyone!
Oh-- I have to mention my infusion nurses again. One of my regular nurses is working at a different place (I will miss her and hearing about her lovely children and family!), and the other 'regular' one wasn't there either. The nurse I had, Carol (Carole?), is one I know though, from being there over the last 4 years, and she had a person with her that was in training. At the end, when I was ready to go, Carol started asking me about my grandkids, and how I was doing after treatment. I was only going to tell her a little, to not take up too much of her time, but she kept asking, so I kept talking! That was so special to me, that she took the time to REALLY ask how I was doing. Usually when I don't have one of my 'regular' 2 nurses, I am in and out of there pretty quick. Everyone is very nice and says hi, but I am only there for a port flush or labs. It just made me feel really good, that she remembered things about my family, and really cared about how I was doing. Chemo nurses are truly angels!
Well, I see my oncologist Tuesday, and have my mammogram Thurs., then the following week I have a pre-op, and my minor surgery. Then I think I'll be done for awhile! *Whew*!
More updates later this week. Hope everyone feels blessed this week, and feels the love of Jesus surrounding them! Amen!
Tina
Just wanted to do a quick update about my CT scans and lab tests I had done last Monday. By Monday evening I already had the results! Everything looks good! My hemoglobin is up a little (finally--I've been taking iron pills!). My platelets are at the low end of the range, and have been since surgery. Before that they were much higher. I'm going to ask my oncologist about that when I see him on Tues. I have a list of things in my head that I want to ask him--I really need to write these questions down!
I will have another little surgery on my backside on March 8th. Not going to do any major surgery on the fistula yet. My surgeon can't guarantee the outcome, so we will hold off as long as possible. There is a chance it might close up on it's own, eventually.
I had to miss another day of work due to my 'digestive system'. The barium stuff I have to drink for the CT scan really messes me up, and I spent most of the evening and into the night in the bathroom. I wasn't able to go to work the next day either. I think that's 5 days I've missed this school year related to my cancer treatment/side effects. Then I missed 4 days due to illness recently too--first a stomach bug, then a cold/chest/cough thing. I don't usually get those type of viruses, so it was weird to get them one right after another. I've already used up the 10 days I get per school year! I'm praying I don't miss any more this year!
It's a relief to have my scans done and over with. I was getting a little nervous this time. I couldn't shake the feeling that 'this might be it'. On the way to the hospital to get my tests done, as I was driving, I was praying and praying. And I was asking forgiveness for the fear, because I knew I shouldn't be afraid--I should be trusting in God. Finally, I realized where the fear was coming from and I said out loud "Satan, you can't touch this! I am a child of the Most High King, and covered by the blood of the Lamb! I have no cancer in me, and I will trust in God and not be afraid!". I felt soooo much better after declaring that for the devil to hear. He fled and I was filled with peace! I was able to be joyful the rest of the day, which I think was nice for those around me in the hospital. That can be a very stressful place, and I made sure I smiled at everyone!
Oh-- I have to mention my infusion nurses again. One of my regular nurses is working at a different place (I will miss her and hearing about her lovely children and family!), and the other 'regular' one wasn't there either. The nurse I had, Carol (Carole?), is one I know though, from being there over the last 4 years, and she had a person with her that was in training. At the end, when I was ready to go, Carol started asking me about my grandkids, and how I was doing after treatment. I was only going to tell her a little, to not take up too much of her time, but she kept asking, so I kept talking! That was so special to me, that she took the time to REALLY ask how I was doing. Usually when I don't have one of my 'regular' 2 nurses, I am in and out of there pretty quick. Everyone is very nice and says hi, but I am only there for a port flush or labs. It just made me feel really good, that she remembered things about my family, and really cared about how I was doing. Chemo nurses are truly angels!
Well, I see my oncologist Tuesday, and have my mammogram Thurs., then the following week I have a pre-op, and my minor surgery. Then I think I'll be done for awhile! *Whew*!
More updates later this week. Hope everyone feels blessed this week, and feels the love of Jesus surrounding them! Amen!
Tina
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
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
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Gotta Love That Daughter of Mine!
Apparently, when Rachel was over here using my computer the other day, she decided to make a blog post for me! It took me a few days to figure it out! Some things never change :)
Well, yes, I am still alive! It's been awhile since I've posted! I have been busy with my grandsons, Shonna, my messy house, etc.
Shonna is home for the summer, well, at least until the beg. of Aug. Then she will go back to KC for another year of school at the International House of Prayer (IHOPU). Today she sang on the worship team at church. It's been awhile since she's been able to do that; it was good to see her back up on the stage.
The boys are doing great! Charlie is gaining weight and is learning things fast! Brennan is still a good little brother, but sometimes he gets a little tired of Charlie! I still watch B often because C has had a lot of dr. appointments. It'll be awhile before Charlie has any surgery though, there are other things they need to work on first. You can check out Rachel's blog (Love is Sugar Free) for more info on the boys. (Link is over there
---->)
I don't think about cancer much anymore. I do still get annoyed at the side effects I'm left with though. I went over all the side effects in one of my last blogs. I think I forgot to add my sore shoulder though. It has been stiff and sore since my mastectomy last May. It got worse for awhile, but now it's slightly better. It didn't hurt as bad when I had to lay it above my head for my last MUGA scan. I was always going to get physical therapy for it, but I just haven't. I think I'm just tired of medical appointments! I still need to see the dentist too! It's been over a year. I see my primary doc on Thurs. to go over some things and get some blood tests. Just routine stuff. I haven't seen her in a long time.
I saw my oncologist the last time I was in for my Herceptin infusion. My MUGA showed my heart is still doing good on the blood pressure med I am on. I take the med not for high blood pressure, but because my heart function was decreasing from the Herceptin. My onc was pleased with how well I was doing. I will see him again when I have my last Herceptin in Aug. I'll have another MUGA , ct scan, and bloodwork a few days before I see him. Oh--speaking of bloodwork--my hemoglobin is finally back in the normal range! The fist time since last April! Everything else looked pretty good too--a few things out of whack yet, but nothing serious.
It's been a year since my mastectomy--May 24th, 2010. What a traumatic time that was! I wish I could say that I'm used to it and it doesn't bother me anymore, but that's not entirely true. It's, like my side effects, an annoyance. I'm trying to find a good swimsuit now. Insurance pays for bras and prosthetics, but not swimsuits, so it'll be expensive. I just want one so I can go in the hot tub when we go to Duluth. I did find some online, just haven't ordered yet.
I have been seriously considering reconstruction, but that is a major surgery and I'm not sure I want to put myself through that. I will lose use of muscle, and the recovery is long. I've put off any thought of that until next year. If I decide I want recon, I can do it anytime I want, and insurance will pay for it.
When I went to see my onc I wanted him to say that I am "NED" (No Evidence of Disease). I told the nurse that and I started choking up a bit. She left the room and I started crying a bit--I had no idea I would be emotional about it! Thankfully the doc took a while to come in and see me and I got myself under control, but I didn't want to bring it up and start crying! So I didn't hear him say it, but since all my tests and scans have come back clear I am going to say I'm NED!!!
Time for bed!
May God bless each of you this week!
Tina
Well, yes, I am still alive! It's been awhile since I've posted! I have been busy with my grandsons, Shonna, my messy house, etc.
Shonna is home for the summer, well, at least until the beg. of Aug. Then she will go back to KC for another year of school at the International House of Prayer (IHOPU). Today she sang on the worship team at church. It's been awhile since she's been able to do that; it was good to see her back up on the stage.
The boys are doing great! Charlie is gaining weight and is learning things fast! Brennan is still a good little brother, but sometimes he gets a little tired of Charlie! I still watch B often because C has had a lot of dr. appointments. It'll be awhile before Charlie has any surgery though, there are other things they need to work on first. You can check out Rachel's blog (Love is Sugar Free) for more info on the boys. (Link is over there
---->)
I don't think about cancer much anymore. I do still get annoyed at the side effects I'm left with though. I went over all the side effects in one of my last blogs. I think I forgot to add my sore shoulder though. It has been stiff and sore since my mastectomy last May. It got worse for awhile, but now it's slightly better. It didn't hurt as bad when I had to lay it above my head for my last MUGA scan. I was always going to get physical therapy for it, but I just haven't. I think I'm just tired of medical appointments! I still need to see the dentist too! It's been over a year. I see my primary doc on Thurs. to go over some things and get some blood tests. Just routine stuff. I haven't seen her in a long time.
I saw my oncologist the last time I was in for my Herceptin infusion. My MUGA showed my heart is still doing good on the blood pressure med I am on. I take the med not for high blood pressure, but because my heart function was decreasing from the Herceptin. My onc was pleased with how well I was doing. I will see him again when I have my last Herceptin in Aug. I'll have another MUGA , ct scan, and bloodwork a few days before I see him. Oh--speaking of bloodwork--my hemoglobin is finally back in the normal range! The fist time since last April! Everything else looked pretty good too--a few things out of whack yet, but nothing serious.
It's been a year since my mastectomy--May 24th, 2010. What a traumatic time that was! I wish I could say that I'm used to it and it doesn't bother me anymore, but that's not entirely true. It's, like my side effects, an annoyance. I'm trying to find a good swimsuit now. Insurance pays for bras and prosthetics, but not swimsuits, so it'll be expensive. I just want one so I can go in the hot tub when we go to Duluth. I did find some online, just haven't ordered yet.
I have been seriously considering reconstruction, but that is a major surgery and I'm not sure I want to put myself through that. I will lose use of muscle, and the recovery is long. I've put off any thought of that until next year. If I decide I want recon, I can do it anytime I want, and insurance will pay for it.
When I went to see my onc I wanted him to say that I am "NED" (No Evidence of Disease). I told the nurse that and I started choking up a bit. She left the room and I started crying a bit--I had no idea I would be emotional about it! Thankfully the doc took a while to come in and see me and I got myself under control, but I didn't want to bring it up and start crying! So I didn't hear him say it, but since all my tests and scans have come back clear I am going to say I'm NED!!!
Time for bed!
May God bless each of you this week!
Tina
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
My Meeting With the Oncologist
Here it is folks...I'll try not to get too long winded!
I'll start off by saying that I like my doctor( Dr. Jahagirdar), and all the folks at the Regions Cancer Care Center seemed really nice! The treatment is pretty much the same treatment I've read about on the blogs of those who recently have gone thru this, so there was nothing new or out of the ordinary. I will have to have radiation also, due to the location of the tumor.
So this is what's going to happen: My chemo will start on Wed., April 8th. I wanted a Wed. so I have the weekend to recover before going back to work. I'll get chemo every other week, for 3 days. The first day of chemo I'll go to Regions and I'll have blood drawn (too make sure everything is ok before they start chemo), meet with the oncologist, get some fluids and IV drugs to help with side effects, and then I'll start the chemo. The whole process takes about 4 hours. I'll come home with a pump (like a fanny pack) that'll continuously give me 1 of the chemo drugs for 46 hours. On the 3rd day (Friday) either a nurse will come to the house to disconnect the pump, or I'll go to Regions to get it disconnected.
After 4 rounds of this (2 months) I'll start radiation for about 5 weeks. During radiation I'll only be getting 1 of the chemo drugs. Radiation doesn't sound like much fun! My bladder and bowels will be irritated and will feel like I have to "go" frequently. Great, just what I need. And there could be permanent damage to the bowels. Hopefully this is rare! I meet with the radiologist next week, so I'll find out more about all of this.
After radiation I'll restart the chemo process for 8 more rounds. The whole chemo/radiation process should take about 7-8 months.
The drug "cocktail" I'll be getting is called Folfox. This is a combo of 3 drugs--5FU, leucovorin, and oxaliplatin. Common side effects are diarrhea, mouth sores, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, decreased blood counts, sensitivity to cold, and tingling, burning and numbess in hands and feet. I was happy to hear hair loss is less common, and if it happens its usually thinning, not total loss. Shonna and her friends apparently talked about buying me colorful scarves, but I may not need them. Thanks anyways for thinking about me!!
The doc said they have drugs that greatly reduce the nausea, and he didn't think the side effects with this regimen were all that bad. We'll see! I have a chemo class next week, and I'll find out more then. I've read about the cold sensitivity and its really extreme. It hurts to drink anything cold (1 guy said it felt like swallowing shards of glass), you can't touch anything cold (have to use gloves to get things out of the freezer), and it even hurts to breath in cold air (like the refrigerated section of the store).
Next Monday I get the Port-A-Cath put in. This is a port that will go under my skin in the front shoulder area and stay there until I'm done with chemo. This is how they draw blood and give the chemo drugs. I think I'll have an IV also the first day of each cycle.
Next Thurs. I meet with the radiologist and have my chemo class.
The following Tues. I meet with a genetic counselor. Dr. J wants to do genetic testing on my tumor. It may tell me whether or not this runs in the family, or am I just an oddball. :-P
Then I'm back to work the Thurs. after that (April 2nd). So much for getting lots of rest!
So, this morning I woke up saying to myself over and over "This is really gonna suck". Then I read some e-mails and messages I've gotten, and that lifted my spirits. If I look at it as only being 8 months out of my life, then that doesn't seem so bad. By this time next year I should be cancer free, and getting ready for my daughter's May wedding! Oh my, there will be a June graduation too! My baby will be done with high school!! My family is my life, and they are what's going to get me thru this.
I thank God that He is with me thru all this, carrying me when the going gets tough. And I thank Him that I have such a wonderful husband, daughters, family and friends. Please continue to pray for me, and I am asking God to heap blessings on each and everyone of you!
Love ya all!
Tina
ps this was enough info for one day...if I think of anything else I'll write it tomorrow. If you have any questions post a comment or e-mail me and I'll be happy to try and answer!
I'll start off by saying that I like my doctor( Dr. Jahagirdar), and all the folks at the Regions Cancer Care Center seemed really nice! The treatment is pretty much the same treatment I've read about on the blogs of those who recently have gone thru this, so there was nothing new or out of the ordinary. I will have to have radiation also, due to the location of the tumor.
So this is what's going to happen: My chemo will start on Wed., April 8th. I wanted a Wed. so I have the weekend to recover before going back to work. I'll get chemo every other week, for 3 days. The first day of chemo I'll go to Regions and I'll have blood drawn (too make sure everything is ok before they start chemo), meet with the oncologist, get some fluids and IV drugs to help with side effects, and then I'll start the chemo. The whole process takes about 4 hours. I'll come home with a pump (like a fanny pack) that'll continuously give me 1 of the chemo drugs for 46 hours. On the 3rd day (Friday) either a nurse will come to the house to disconnect the pump, or I'll go to Regions to get it disconnected.
After 4 rounds of this (2 months) I'll start radiation for about 5 weeks. During radiation I'll only be getting 1 of the chemo drugs. Radiation doesn't sound like much fun! My bladder and bowels will be irritated and will feel like I have to "go" frequently. Great, just what I need. And there could be permanent damage to the bowels. Hopefully this is rare! I meet with the radiologist next week, so I'll find out more about all of this.
After radiation I'll restart the chemo process for 8 more rounds. The whole chemo/radiation process should take about 7-8 months.
The drug "cocktail" I'll be getting is called Folfox. This is a combo of 3 drugs--5FU, leucovorin, and oxaliplatin. Common side effects are diarrhea, mouth sores, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, decreased blood counts, sensitivity to cold, and tingling, burning and numbess in hands and feet. I was happy to hear hair loss is less common, and if it happens its usually thinning, not total loss. Shonna and her friends apparently talked about buying me colorful scarves, but I may not need them. Thanks anyways for thinking about me!!
The doc said they have drugs that greatly reduce the nausea, and he didn't think the side effects with this regimen were all that bad. We'll see! I have a chemo class next week, and I'll find out more then. I've read about the cold sensitivity and its really extreme. It hurts to drink anything cold (1 guy said it felt like swallowing shards of glass), you can't touch anything cold (have to use gloves to get things out of the freezer), and it even hurts to breath in cold air (like the refrigerated section of the store).
Next Monday I get the Port-A-Cath put in. This is a port that will go under my skin in the front shoulder area and stay there until I'm done with chemo. This is how they draw blood and give the chemo drugs. I think I'll have an IV also the first day of each cycle.
Next Thurs. I meet with the radiologist and have my chemo class.
The following Tues. I meet with a genetic counselor. Dr. J wants to do genetic testing on my tumor. It may tell me whether or not this runs in the family, or am I just an oddball. :-P
Then I'm back to work the Thurs. after that (April 2nd). So much for getting lots of rest!
So, this morning I woke up saying to myself over and over "This is really gonna suck". Then I read some e-mails and messages I've gotten, and that lifted my spirits. If I look at it as only being 8 months out of my life, then that doesn't seem so bad. By this time next year I should be cancer free, and getting ready for my daughter's May wedding! Oh my, there will be a June graduation too! My baby will be done with high school!! My family is my life, and they are what's going to get me thru this.
I thank God that He is with me thru all this, carrying me when the going gets tough. And I thank Him that I have such a wonderful husband, daughters, family and friends. Please continue to pray for me, and I am asking God to heap blessings on each and everyone of you!
Love ya all!
Tina
ps this was enough info for one day...if I think of anything else I'll write it tomorrow. If you have any questions post a comment or e-mail me and I'll be happy to try and answer!
Monday, March 16, 2009
One Store at a Time!
On Saturday I posted that Rich and I planned on going to Fleet Farm and Target...didn't quite work out that way! We went to Arby's first for a quick lunch and then Fleet Farm. After being there only 10 min. or so, I told Rich I didn't think I was going to make it to Target! We spent another 15-20 minutes there and headed home. I got very achey and tired alot faster than I expected! Sunday I made it to church, but barely made it thru the whole service (about an hour and 15 min.). I was determined to stick it out tho. I especially needed the praise and worship, but the sermon was good too. Both days I had a nice nap in the afternoon!
Today Alyssa took my mom and I to Target. Poor girl--had to help Grandma with her heavy bags and then help me too, as I still can't lift much. Luckily Shonna was home from school when we got back and she was able to help carry groceries up the stairs, so Alyssa didn't have to do it all herself. I don't think she knew what she was getting into when she agreed to take us shopping! The best part was that she did it all with a smile! My back and tummy were pretty sore by the time we were done, but its nothing that's going to kill me---its just uncomfortable for awhile.
Well tomorrow is the big day with the oncologist. Rich will be going with me, of course. I'm nervous about it. I already know I have to do chemo, but hearing the oncologist say it will make it more final. Might be a depressing day....(I'm allowed one once in awhile aren't I??)
Hope everyone else is doing well!!
Love,
Tina
Today Alyssa took my mom and I to Target. Poor girl--had to help Grandma with her heavy bags and then help me too, as I still can't lift much. Luckily Shonna was home from school when we got back and she was able to help carry groceries up the stairs, so Alyssa didn't have to do it all herself. I don't think she knew what she was getting into when she agreed to take us shopping! The best part was that she did it all with a smile! My back and tummy were pretty sore by the time we were done, but its nothing that's going to kill me---its just uncomfortable for awhile.
Well tomorrow is the big day with the oncologist. Rich will be going with me, of course. I'm nervous about it. I already know I have to do chemo, but hearing the oncologist say it will make it more final. Might be a depressing day....(I'm allowed one once in awhile aren't I??)
Hope everyone else is doing well!!
Love,
Tina
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