Web Notes

Welcome Jennifer!
Nice to have another New Englander on the boards! I had my RNY on July 30th.
It was the best decision that I ever made. Granted there are bumps along the
way, but overall, I feel fantastic. I think that will be what most of the
people you meet here will say.
Don't be afraid to ask questions either. If there is anything that this group
really enjoys, it is chatting. :) Please give us something to discuss. It is
amazing how much we all end up learning.
Lisa A
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Jennifer,
I am so glad you joined our group. You will get bombarded with
emails, but they will give you a wide range of info from the happy
times of accomplishments to the problems each of us have. We are a
group that wants the best for each other, not only in their persuit
of healthiness, but also in their daily lives. Also, check out the
files section of this group. There is a lot of imformation we have
gathered and posted their as references.
One thing to remember is that this surgery and lifestyle is for the
rest of your life. You won't just lose weight and go back to the old
you. There are both physical and psychological changes that will
occur. I am still learning and I researched this surgery for 5
years before I had it, my brother had it 5.5 years ago, and I had it
5.5 months ago. There is so much to learn, so read as much as you
can.
Good luck in your decision.
Lizanne
Maryland
Open RNY 8/17/07
251/181/125
PS If you ask me, I'd recommend the Lap RNY. But that is personal
preference.

Dawn & Pat,
We are all different. So are our after surgery diets. I just wanted
to add that my diet was pureed food as soon as I left the hospital.
I actually had soft food while still in the hospital. My surgeon
told me I could eat anything as long as it was pureed or chewed VERY
well. He said except nuts. I forgot about the nut thing and one day
I tried some peanuts and cashews. Yum!!! I had no problem. I
chewed then VERY well. I still love them as an evening snack or even
sometimes as dinner if I get home too late. They have a lot of fat
and sodium, but there is protein too, so I am happy. I just wrote
this because there always seems to be two points of view here when
discussing food. As always...if you have a problem with them, stop
eating them for now. Later things will change and you could try them
again with different results.
Lizanne

Welcome to the group. Most everyone here is Stage IV. I am cofounder of the big
group which has members from DCIS to Stage III and few Stage IV belong to both
groups. I thought you joined the big group but if not let me know and I can post
the url for you.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
BreastCancerStories.com
http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/
Angel Feather Loomer
www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com
Check out my other ornaments at
www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
Lots of info and gifts at:
www.cancerclub.com

Dear Sharon,
I had lab work done Wed. and my blood work is good,
hemoglobin is esp. good. Had my infusion of Zometa
and shots of Faslodex. This coming Wed. I go in for a
CT scan. Hurricane Dennis has caused three
cancellations of things I was going to do today, but
it is not that bad here in Ft. Lauderdale.
Hugs, Brenda
-
Brenda Young Olson
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Bellydancing, it's the hip thing to do.

Hi girls,
okay saw my onc today and she is holding off on my new chemo until
next week after I've had my echo gram. I'm starting something next
week that begans with an a, and is hard on the heart. My sternum
area has been pronounced and allthough she thought it was just
because my breast aren't there so it made it stand out more, we
found out that there's a lump growing under it. The lump that the
cat scan was intended for didn't show up on the scan. And my liver
has a tiny lesion on it, but she says it's not in a place that
effects function, she also said it's so tiny it wouldn't effect the
tumor marker. I'm having another cat scan done for my brain aswell
since I've been feeling extra fuzzy headed lately, with the spread I
just want to make sure everything is okay up there. Got some great
news though. My son has excepted Jesus, and I'm stoked about that!
So now it's just my daughter that I'm praying will accept Jesus.
She's in Juvie currently and in a week she will be placed in another
lock down facility, a little less rigid then Juvie. She'll be in it
for six months. She's doing better then before though. I spoke
with her P.O. and she's not whining, she's behaving better, and
allthough she want's to come home she has admitted she needs help,
and has accepted the lock down placement. Her P.O. whom I'm real
happy with is being changed, but apparently her new P.O. is really
good, and is looking forward to meeting me. The P.O. she has now
keeps me informed and we work together to help my daughter. I hope
you get some good news Parvin about your lungs! Thanks for your
prayers everyone. I still believe that everything will turn out
okay, and I'm really not so upset. I feel very serene about
everything. Of course I have my moments but the feelings of
depression don't last as long anymore, and I'm not so afraid of
dieing anymore. Allthough I believe I won't for a long time and I
don't want to, but as long as my kids are saved, and I know I'll see
them again in heaven and my daughters attitude has changed so that
my mom would be willing to raise her in my absence I'm okay.

only twice????? Why on earth would I not be nice to you ALL the time????
Pat
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Thank you again Pat,
You must be in a really good mood today or a really bad one. You
have twice been so nice to me. Thanks. I look forward to receiving
those exercises and I will follow them EXACTLY as you say.
Lizanne

Beverly,
Glad to hear you are responding to the Femara. I will keep you in my prayers.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
BreastCancerStories.com
http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/
Angel Feather Loomer
www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com
Check out my other ornaments at
www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
Lots of info and gifts at:
www.cancerclub.com

Lora,
Thank you for your comments. I think I do push extra hard because of
what I endured those first 2 months. I keep thinking that I am not
going to go through all that and then FAIL. It was terrible and I am
glad that it is over with. I really have no eating problems, I do
have fluid problems. If you will try, so will I. It's so hard.
Yesterday I bet I only had about 20 oz. I will do my best to drink
my decaf tea, even in the evenings.
YOU LOST 100 POUNDS!!!! Congratulations. Aren't you so proud of
yourself? I am proud of you and I didn't do anything. I will be so
happy if I ever reach 100 lbs, and with your support I will. You
have done a wonderful job!!! WooooHoooo!
Lizanne
251/181/125

I was thinking someone on here uses Papaya Enzymes. I picked some up
at GNC it was buy one get one 1/2 off. It is suppose to help in
digestion especially if you eat alot of protein. Let me know if anyone
has any info.
Thanks
Rebekah

Melissa
Thank you so very much for your post, you give me hope and courage!! I felt
like I was reading exactly what's going on inside my mind.. please keep in touch
with me, it would mean alot.
Love
Michele
bee2165@... wrote:
Michele,
I had breast cancer (stage 1) 8 years ago and was considered "cured" after
surgery and chemo. Then last April cancer recurred in my pleural fluid and so
I was instantly labeled stage 4. And that is where I'm at right now. I had
similar feelings/emotions that you are going through right now...I was more
or less in a panic. I still had so much to do, kids to finish raising, what
about those "golden years" that my Husband and I were looking forward to when
we were old? All threatened when cancer entered into the picture again. I
felt so scared and vulnerable. I cried a lot. My mind was constantly racing
on what to do, what to do, what to do. Our wonderful, cozy life seemed to
get flipped upside down in an instant. I'm completely healthy in every other
way except cancer. How could this be???? The unknown was horrible.
Then, after awhile, the panic cloud that loomed over us non-stop somehow
lifted. I think it was the result of a lot of prayer. And slowly we've been
able to somehow make our way through it all. I don't know what the future
holds. I'm hoping for many more years. I expect many more years. Only God
above knows if this is to be. But for now I'm stable and still enjoying life
even while having been on chemo for over a year with only one break. This
latest chemo I'm on even allowed my hair to grow back in which was pretty neat.
Most people would not even know I was a cancer patient.
I told my family I would march down to hell and back again to continue
staying here with them and thats what I intend to do. But I've also made it very
clear to them as well as my doc that if it gets to where my illness is too
much of a burden and my quality of life isn't good then I will choose to quit
treatment and wait for them all in Heaven. I certainly don't feel anywhere
near that right now though! Things are going well and I expect that they will
go well for many years.
I am so encouraged when people on the cancer lists say they're stage 4 and
they're still living 5, 10 or more years later. That tells me the longer I
can hold on the more there will be a chance for better treatment...or dare I
say a cure?!?!? You just never know :)
I hope this helps some. Hugs to you,
-- Melissa
************************************** Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL at
http://discover.aol.com/memed/aolcom30tour

Cashews are especially easy to chew into a creamy nothingness! I
was using them as one of my protein snacks very early on (but I also
had eggs and other soft food before leaving the hospital). I added
almonds about 3 or 4 months out -- they required more chewing, but I
had no problem digesting them.
Actually, if my pouch is feeling just a bit queasy, 4 or 5 small
almonds sometimes helps settle it a bit. Not sure why...
discoevered it quite by accident.
Lora

Lora,
You have a lot on your plate right now. Worrying about something
from the past that you cannot change is a waste of a good worry. As
I tell my daughter all the time, stop sweating the small unchangable
stuff and concentrate on the things you can do something about.
Sometimes we worry so much about so many things that we can't get
motivated to change the things we can. Your email sounds like you
are struggling, dwelling on what can't be. Please don't take this as
criticism because all I want to do is to support you. Start looking
for what can be accomplished. If you put enough feelers (resumes)
out there, maybe you will find what you want. I hate where I work
and have been talking about changing for YEARS, but I love the flex
hours. I have to work a min of 45 hours, but I can do that in any
manner in which I want. You will find what you want eventually, you
just have to start doing something to find that job. Send out
hundreds of resumes. Go through the phone book. Almost everyone
uses IT to some extent so start with the large companies in your area
and work your way down. Get G to help stuff envelopes on the
weekends (I am sure you have nothing else to do). It's time to
believe in yourself and move, move, move. I know you always say you
have no self esteem problems. I don't think that is entirely true.
Lora, if this mesaage is irritating to you I am very very sorry. I
truly am hoping to encourage you as you have me.
Lizanne

Dear Beverly,
Thank you so very much for you post.. It truly inspired me. You didn't say what
age you were diagnosed at, but your post sure does show the true sign of "hope"
and "courage". I am printing out the responses I get so that I can keep reading
them and remembering there are those who can do this. Please keep in touch, it
would mean a great deal to me!
Love
Michele
Beverly <bphills@...
Michele:
I believe this is an individual decision that each of us has to
make. Prolonging life can give the chance for new treatments...and
Cancer can also --change-- after time. I have a friend (ER negative)
in my support group who has been in treatment for over 2 years. Her
spots in the lungs have disappearred with treatment. If you are
concerned about losing your hair, perhaps your oncologist can try
something where you won't lose your hair.
I was triple negative in 1995 (stage 2, BRAC negative) with children
ages 9 and 12. Had mastectomy and CMF chemo (no radiation since I
had negative lymph nodes). I recurred in 2004 (still ER negative)in
my mastectomy scar and leg bone. Had 12 weekly Taxol chemos, monthly
Aredia, and radiation to breast and leg. When I recurred in my neck
lymph nodes in Sept 2006, the cancer had changed to --ER positive--
so now I'm on daily Femara pills and monthly Zometa IV for the bone.
The 2004 taxol was much easier than the 1995 CMF chemo. In 1995, I
kept my hair with the CMF but had more nausia and short-term memory
loss than with the taxol. One of the things they have learned over
the years is to keep the red blood count higher to reduce the memory
problems. With Taxol, I lost my hair and had some joint pain
(controlled with Aleeve) that started about 2 days after treatment
and lasted for a day or two. I'm not sure if the pain was caused by
the Taxol or by the Aredia (for bone). I did not have nausia every
day.
It was difficult for my children when they were younger and I was
going through treatment, but I was able to spend more time with them
than when I was working. Now, I have survived long enough to become
a **grandmother two months ago**.
I hope you don't make your decision when you are severely depressed.
You did not mention if you were on antidepressants. I was very
depressed the first two times I was diagnosed and used them during
treatment to improve my quality of life. I used something "light" to
just take the "edge" off because I was so worried I could not
sleep...and I felt I needed my rest to help keep my immune system as
strong as possible to fight the cancer.
Each person has their own way to deal with this illness. I don't
need antidepressants now because I have adjusted to living with
breast cancer. I am living my current life better instead of working
all the time and waiting until I retire to have fun. I try to spend
more time with my family. We take a couple of vacations each year.
(Currently, I'm traveling in Montana on my way from Glacier National
Park to Yellowstone). I have also come to the conclusion that I
would rather have this illness than to be paralized and unable to do
anything.
My final suggestin is to consider starting the treatment, and if it's
too bad, try something else, or just stop.
Beverly

I do occasionally have a few very small sips when I eat, especially
if I'm eating re-heated chicken which tends to be dry. That has
been one of the hardest adjustments for me (especially when we go
out to eat). I have been avoiding drinking with meals as much as
possible because I am SO scared that, when the hunger returns (as my
surgeon assures me it will), I do NOT want to be in the habit of
drinking and washing the food through my pouch too quickly (and then
being hungry again right away).
I know different things work for different poeple, and some people
are able to NEVER even take a sip with a meal and some people drink
with meals all the time, but I'm going to try to sip only when
absolutely necssary.
Lora

YEAH for Debby!!! You go girl!
Valeri

Dear Sharon,
I just got back the results of my CT scan showing
everything was stable so I will continue on Xeloda.
Hope you get a good report from your scan.
I think folks are concerned with back to school and
getting things done before it starts. Just my guess,
but I don't have that to prepare for anymore. Retired
from teaching and loving it!
Hugs, Brenda
Brenda Young Olson
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Bellydancing, it's the hip thing to do.

In your email. . got to Tools
then go to options
go to signature and make your signature
click ok. . not apply... if you use your email for other things besides this
group you can add it ea time you send . .thats what i do.
~*Sharon XOXO*~
"THIN feels better than FAT tastes!"
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242**SW232**CW172**GW125-130

Thank you. You know though ;allthough, I really hate dealing with cancer and
all it intales, it was through this I found God again, and boy was I lost!
It's also helpful to see even though I'd rather see this disease eliminated,
other people going through this for so long. I believe God is takeing care of
me, and I will be healed from this despite what they say about no cure for it
once you've hit the fourth stage. But even if I have to go through years of
chemo, I know it's possible and my sisters in this group give me so much
encouragement and hope when I need a boost. Out of the groups I'm in this one
means the most to me, and you guys are so dear to me.
r1fefe <r1fefe@...
prayers go out to you. i
have seen the pictures of your son and daughter. you are so young
to
have gone thru so much, and still have a great attitude. i am so
happy that you where able to see and be with her. i have two sons
but
they live in another state, one in l.a., and the older one in denver
c. i miss them terribly but we talk every few days.
i have had hot flashes every half hour, 24/7 for 6 yrs. since chemo
put me in menopose. i think the med's also helps them come more
often.
it use to bother me alot, but after so many years, it is part of my
life.
as fare as songs go, i feel good when i hear songs either from my
childhood and from the 60's -70's -80's even the 90's. no
particular
one.
you are in my prayers,as all of us here need them.
God bless,
rosie s

Dear Parvin,
I agree that it takes time to do the unpacking from a
move. Just go slowly. Am glad to hear that you are
in your new place.
Hugs, Brenda
-
Brenda Young Olson
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Bellydancing, it's the hip thing to do.

I'm feeling great, no complications really, a bit of hair falling out, but
not that bad. A bit anemic, but that's getting better too. I just wish the
weight would come off a bit quicker, I have really slowed down the past 3+
weeks, but I'm telling myself that it's giving my skin time to keep
up, that's what I think, and I'm sticking with it :o)
Thanks for asking,
Edie
11/15/07
lap rny
302/292/254/150's
hw/sw/cw/goal

Wow, I can't believe someone on the list actually
lives within a relatively short distance of me. I
used to live in Hallandale, Three Islands Blvd. at
Anchor Bay. So, I am familiar with Aventura. Now I
live out in the "boonies" or in Silver Lakes, Pembroke
Pines about 9 miles west of University Drive off of
Pines Blvd. One day we'll have to meet.
Let me tell you a bit about myself. I'm a retired
educator, married, age 66 (young!!!), have lots of
hobbies (tell ya about them later), and have been
working on getting myself healthy with diet and
exercise.
As for my journey with cancer: DX in Nov. '03,
lumpectomy in Jan. '04 followed by rads and Arimidex
(harmone treatment). DX in Oct. '04 with mets to
spine and lungs. Meds changed to Xeloda (chemo pill)
and Zometa (infusion for bones), plus recently the onc
added Faslodex (harmone treatment). I hardly
experience any side effects as the onc reduced the
amt. of Xeloda. Now I have sore feet and dry hands.
I am very active, tho', and I think that helps...bike
30 min. almost every day, belly dance 90 min. a week
at class, do strength training 3 X a week. I have a
trainer/nutritionist who has helped me clean up my
diet and stick to an exercise routine.
So, tell me about yourself.
Hugs, Brenda
Brenda Young Olson
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Bellydancing, it's the hip thing to do.

i am in miami, next to aventura, just read your post to sharon, we are
close to one another.
rosie s

My 2 week post op is 1/31 at noon. Hopefully I will be put on stage 3 diet so if
anyone wants to meet for lunch I should be able to do it. No more liquids
yea!!!!
Debby
-12 lbs!!!!!!!

Dear Ladies, I saw my onc. today and got the results of my scan's
which I am very releived to say that they came back OK with
improvement so the onc. says the navelbine is really working for me.
I am so releived and hope the navelbine keeps working for a long time
to come. Praise the Lord and God is good. I hope and pray for
everyone else on here that they get good results of tests and
treatment's. I pray for everyone of you every nite that you do. Take
care all of my wonderful ladies, God Bless, Love, Sharon

Sharon what wonderful news. I will continue to keep you in my prayers.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
Check out my breast cancer ornaments at:
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
also check out my other ornaments and lots of nice gifts at:
http://www.cancerclub.com

Sharon - Great news! Later Marie

Yeah, Sharon!! So glad you're back online again! Woohooo!
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/179/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

Pat,
I was teasing yesterday when I said you were nice twice in one day.
Afterward I realised that you may not have been sure that I was. I
just want to make sure you know that I think you are a great
encourager and very clever.
Knees....I have arthritis in my knees. That's all I know. About 6
years ago I had an MRI and they found arthritis. They gave me a
prescription for Celebrex and then Relafen (or something spelled
similar to that), and sent me on my way. Nothing helps. Actually
Motrin used to help when it hurt really bad, but I can't take that
anymore because of the surgery. I know what Motrin does to our
intestines, so even if I was allowed to take it, I don't think I
would.
I thought the water aerobices would help, and now I thought adding
the treadmill would make these muscles stronger. I was just
wondering if I have to suffer first until they have become stronger,
or is the treadmill just not very good for knees? Anyone know? I am
definately getting more muscular legs from the water aerobics.
Lizanne
251/180/125
PS Pat if you would like to, I would love some exercises for the
knees. I actually THOUGHT I was going something good for them.

That's what I was thinking. Do they make Cymbalta in the other
form? Sharon, what are you taking?
Sheggy/Shannon---

I found out earlier this week that my "regular" job is ending in March
(they won't give me a firm date yet). (I will continue to see the
counseling clients I have, but that's only a couple of sessions per week.)
So now I'm even more stressed. I'm going to try to read and post more
here now that I'm feeling a little calmer about my inadvertant
disclosure, but I'm still feeling kind of raw from it, and still very
much embarrassed.
On a brighter note, however, I went to the Mongolian Grill last night
for dinner with a friend that I have not seen since before surgery,
and she just couldn't get over how good I looked, and my "energy". It
was a nice "boost". It also made me realize, though that even though
I am down over 90 pounds, much of the time I still see myself as
*almost* as heavy as I started. Sometimes I notice the difference --
I see how much smaller my legs and face and arms are -- but much of
the time, I still see the other half of the weight I need to lose and
that other half looks like it's more like 3/4, if that makes any
sense. Like sometimes my brain sees the newer me, and can feel the
physical difference, and sometimes it doesn't. It's kind of bizarre,
but I know other people have mentioned it (or at least something
similar to it) so at least I know it's not just me.
Lora

Edie,
I have the slowness too. I just keep thinking that even though I
generally lose about a pound a week, I am not suffering to do it. I
used to diet on and off many times in my lifetime. I always
suffered. If I saw ice cream, or pasta in garlic sauce, or anything
that I wanted but wasn't "allowed" to have, I either gave into
temptation, and felt guilty or discouraged, or if I didn't eat it, I
felt depreived. Now I really don't have any of those "real"
desires. So I am losing weight, albeit slowly, but the desire to
stuff my face is missing. I like not having to deal with that.
Lizanne
open RNY 8/17/07
251/180/125

My epxerience is very similar. I have only been losing about 1.5 - 2
pounds per week lately, but I have not (usually, anyway!) been feeling
the old urges to overeat. Now I do still get cravings, but I can have
my 2 or 3 M&Ms and be satisfied instead of eating the whole bag and
still wanting more.
Lora

Welcome Tiffany,

You CANNOT crush extended or delayed release pills!!!!
Did you see the website that I posted yesterday? With extended release pills,
you actually get too much medication all at once... not too little...
http://www.obesityaction.org/resources/oacnews/oacnews1/healthqanda.php
Pat
Dawn <scottndawn@...
Hi Jill!
I actually don't think it would hurt your new stomach. What your
experiment showed is that the whole 1/2 pill would not give you
enough medicine by time it would be passed on by your stomach. It
won't sit there - just like food won't sit there. If it's something
you really should be taking, I would imagine that a little bit of the
medicine would be better than no medicine.
Just my 2 cents...
Dawn in PA
Lap RNY 06/27/07
305/278/179/140
HW/SW/CW/GW

Ok, if you go to the photo section of this group look in Des Moines.
There are a couple of different albums. The clearest picture of Doris
is #3 in album 1. Its Kathy, Joan and Doris C. She is in other pictures
as well but this one is the clearest.
Hugs
Marianne

I know Lizanne... I was also teasing when I said "only twice?????"
It is important to do strengthening exercises for your knees. You need to
work the muscles surrounding your knees, and above and below, because that is
what supports the joint. The water aerobics *is* good for them, but it takes
time to see any results. If the treadmill is too hard on them right now, you
can do non weight bearing exercises with one of those elastic bands. If you
have or can get a band, I can send you some exercises for it. I also have my
patients do step exercises, but slowly and gently so there is no pounding. You
want to avoid anything high impact.
Pat
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
Pat,
I was teasing yesterday when I said you were nice twice in one day.
Afterward I realised that you may not have been sure that I was. I
just want to make sure you know that I think you are a great
encourager and very clever.
Knees....I have arthritis in my knees. That's all I know. About 6
years ago I had an MRI and they found arthritis. They gave me a
prescription for Celebrex and then Relafen (or something spelled
similar to that), and sent me on my way. Nothing helps. Actually
Motrin used to help when it hurt really bad, but I can't take that
anymore because of the surgery. I know what Motrin does to our
intestines, so even if I was allowed to take it, I don't think I
would.
I thought the water aerobices would help, and now I thought adding
the treadmill would make these muscles stronger. I was just
wondering if I have to suffer first until they have become stronger,
or is the treadmill just not very good for knees? Anyone know? I am
definately getting more muscular legs from the water aerobics.
Lizanne
251/180/125
PS Pat if you would like to, I would love some exercises for the
knees. I actually THOUGHT I was going something good for them.

Holly & Ken came to Portland this year. It was good to see them again.
We didn't get to spend much time with them, as they came in saturday
afternoon, and left after the race.
Holly is doing well, and looking good. She told me that she is losing
more of her hearing and will soon have a cochlear (sp) implant.
I hope that one day we can all meet again. (Joan, Kathy) what are you
two up to, dont hear much from you. Missed you bunches. I presented the
club traveling quilt to Susan as she is the hostess for the next race.
When I opend it up a pink in honor of card fell out, it had Doris C on
it. It brought tears to my eyes. She was a special lady.
Do you guys remember when Ken was filming us, he was walking backwards
and ran into the pole. (blast from the past) lol
Jeana

I am from South Carolina. I was diagnosed at 23 and the rediagnosed 2
1/2 yrs ago. They have exhausted all treatments and I am now part of
a study for a chemo drug.It is a pill form that I can take at home.
If any one has take capcitibene please email me and let me know...I
would like to know about the feeling, if it works, and how well.

Thank you Marianne for letting me know that I will go check it out.
Love, Sharon

I am doing my courses through Western Governors University. www.wgu.edu It is
a completely online school (no actual campus) and they allow you to work at your
own pace and fit as many courses as you can into one 6 month term. My tuition
is about $2500 per 6 month term. that's not too bad IMO. So far I'm really
pleased with my choice of school.
~Ally~
Atlanta, GA
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/174/130
HW/SW/CW/GW

Parvin,
I never had that happen but maybe one of the other ladies can help. You are in
my prayers.
There are pictures of Doris in the Des Moines albums in the group.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
Check out my breast cancer ornaments at:
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
also check out my other ornaments and lots of nice gifts at:
http://www.cancerclub.com

Welcome to the group. The ladies here are fantastic. I had CMF so can't help you
but will keep you in my prayers.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
Check out my breast cancer ornaments at:
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
also check out my other ornaments and lots of nice gifts at:
http://www.cancerclub.com

So, this morning I was in the shower and it hit me that I am now a "normal"
sized person. I went to Old Navy last week to buy jeans and got a size 12.
Realistically I'm a size 14, but Old Navy is really into the vanity sizing thing
these days, but whatever.
Anyway, I'm a normal sized person, but I still don't feel like it most of the
time.
~Ally~
Atlanta, GA
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/174/130
HW/SW/CW/GW

Joanne,
You are going to think I'm a ninny. I didn't realise at first that
this was your questionaire. I was thinking as I was reading
that...oh, look another person from Seattle, and oh my another dog
lover. Suddenly it dawned on me that this is you. In case I never
said it, welcome to the group. All are welcome and I'm glad you
joined.
Lizanne

Actually, 2 new pictures.
~Ally~
Atlanta, GA
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/174/130
HW/SW/CW/GW

Sorry I didn't mean to start a ruckus, what I said was: I get my digests
e-mailed to me, when I hit reply, it automatically starts at the top of the
page, but, if I wanted my auto signature to be attached, I had to delete
everything in between, because the auto signature always appeared at the
bottom of the page. I have since stopped using the auto signature, so I am
no longer deleting anything, I am hitting reply, typing and hitting send.

So, I went to the surgeon today. It's crazy in there. First you see
a nurse who does the BP, weight & asks the reason for the visit. I
told her about the "alien" and my hair loss. She was way more
interested in the hair loss. She was amazed to see all the little
hairs growing on my no longer-shiny-bald head. She had NEVER heard
of that happening to anyone after this surgery. WOW!!!
Then another nurse comes to visit. She is also amazed at my hair
loss, and my softball sized hernia, and the lack of knowledge my PCP
has. I took my lab sheet to show them what he ordered for the end of
Feb. She added 5 more tests. I told her my PCP took me off Zocor
for cholesterol, yet no tests were run to see if I still need it. I
eat plently of meat and cheese, both heavy in animal fat. Then she
asked if I saw the surgeon for an earlier check up. She was
wondering why I hadn't had any tests earlier. Then she realised that
she had taken time off for her daughter's wedding and the surgeon
doesn't believe in lab tests. Great a surgeon who doesn't believe in
labs. I totally screwed up when it comes to surgeons.
I tell her I would rather have the plastic surgeon do the surgery on
my alien. She tells me that the PS surgeon will not consider doing
any work before a year after surgery. I asked if this was a change
because she did my brother's at 10 months. Then I asked if I would
need a referal to see the PS. She said no.
Then the surgeon comes in. He looks at the alien, says he could do
the surgery but he would do nothing extra. He says the surgery needs
to be done but that the alien is not life threatening. If I went to
the PS, she would do some extra. I asked if he could give me a
referal and he says I do need one and to see his assistant.
So next, I will call my insurance company and ask what needs to be
done. Then I will get them to fax me the pages they used to
determine what needs to be done so I have something in writing. I do
that because once before they approved me for 20 visits to a
chiropractor, in writing, but later denied me because chiropractors
were not covered. I had 18 visits by then. I don't trust anyone
anymore.
Basically, I am just rambling. I am no closer to getting this taken
care of, but at least I know not to worry. Also, at the end of Feb I
will be getting blood drawn for 12 teats. That should cover just
about anything that could be wrong.
Have we heard anything more from Jessica? How about Barbara? Does
anyone know her personally?
Lizanne
251/181 (I gained .7 lbs in 4 days. UGH!!)/125

Linda,
I am not Stage IV but I do know some of the ladies are on chemo indefinitely.
Some call it "maintainence". I also have heard ladies say that if they are doing
ok, sometimes the onc will give them a short break from the chemo. I will keep
you in my prayers.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
BreastCancerStories.com
http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/
Angel Feather Loomer
www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com
Check out my other ornaments at
www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
Lots of info and gifts at:
www.cancerclub.com

hi my name is melanie my sister has stage iv bone cancer and we dont
know much about it i just want to talk with someone who knows more
about it she is 43 years old .her name is cynthia .

Hello everyone. I received my 2nd monthly injection of faslodex this
past Wed. morning. By the evening I had no appetite, on Thursday I
ached, and Friday began a series of episodes of intense depression
and anxiety. Right now I am so depressed and anxious, the worst I
have felt in a very, very long time (and I've been treated for
depression and anxiety for close to 15 years now). I am just doubled
over crying, holding my head in my hands, feeling so low and dis-
connected from the rest of the world. I did the smart thing and
first contacted my psychiatrist, who is suspicious of the Faslodex.
I looked on the Faslodex website (you know, the one where everyone is
a grandmother but ME!!), and depression and anxiety are in the side
effects column, with like 5% of the population each. Of course, the
median age of the people in the study was twice my age!! Don't I
love being young and special??
Has anyone else here had bad depression/anxiety with faslodex? this
is only my 2nd month with it, and if it continues to make me feel
this shitty, then I'm saying NO to AIs (God knows I've taken quite a
tour of them) and YES to more chemo. I would rather be bald and
happy than hairy and wanting to die!!!!!!!
Pray for me that the Ativan prescribed for me by my psychiatrist will
do its job within the next hour or so. I hate feeling like this.

i am so sorry for the way you are feeling! and yes i have you in my prayer! jsy
keep your head up and keep on going! as long as god gives you the strenth
and will to keep on going!! you run with it and live life!!!!
Anna Sandoval

Hi'
I had Faslodex 2 and a half years ago for about 19 months, it was by way of a
clincal trial. It was very good at holding back the cancer and whilst it didn't
make me depressed I did feel pretty low at times. Yes it knocked my apetite too
and I only slept 4-5 hours whilst I was on it.
I was so saddened to read your post and just wonder if your depression is
being adequately treated, maybe you need to try another type of antidepressant.
I think one of the things that got me so low was the build up at the injection
site, my poor bottom was so lumpy and sore and whilst the adverse events state
that injection sites cause minor problems they certainly never saw a backside
like mine. In the end I had injections into my thigh a few times just to give my
backside a rest and chance to recover which took some months even after I had
stopped taking it.
It is interesting to see you have been given ativan, the one drug that made
my dperession worse ( when I had deppression some years before the cancer) In
the end I was given amitriptyline, an old fashioned treatment that caused
dreadful constipation but for me it worked on the depression and lifted it
within a week or so, having been through a range of newer drugs that simply
didn't suit me. When I was on the amitrtyline the one good thing it did for me
was give me a good night's sleep (though very drowsy all the time for the first
few days until I built some tolerance to it) If only I can get a decent night's
sleep I can cope with the day time.
Perhaps rethink your current thoughts on chemo and get better treatment for
your depression because the faslodex has a good reputation.
I am wishing and hoping for you, take good care, Velvet (UK)
lilpointyhat <pnkrbbnsucks@...
Hello everyone. I received my 2nd monthly injection of faslodex this
past Wed. morning. By the evening I had no appetite, on Thursday I
ached, and Friday began a series of episodes of intense depression
and anxiety. Right now I am so depressed and anxious, the worst I
have felt in a very, very long time (and I've been treated for
depression and anxiety for close to 15 years now). I am just doubled
over crying, holding my head in my hands, feeling so low and dis-
connected from the rest of the world. I did the smart thing and
first contacted my psychiatrist, who is suspicious of the Faslodex.
I looked on the Faslodex website (you know, the one where everyone is
a grandmother but ME!!), and depression and anxiety are in the side
effects column, with like 5% of the population each. Of course, the
median age of the people in the study was twice my age!! Don't I
love being young and special??
Has anyone else here had bad depression/anxiety with faslodex? this
is only my 2nd month with it, and if it continues to make me feel
this shitty, then I'm saying NO to AIs (God knows I've taken quite a
tour of them) and YES to more chemo. I would rather be bald and
happy than hairy and wanting to die!!!!!!!
Pray for me that the Ativan prescribed for me by my psychiatrist will
do its job within the next hour or so. I hate feeling like this.

Snyder's has a whole grain pretzel and my nut completely approves of them. I
am careful how many I eat and sometimes I spread a little peanut butter on them
if I am short on protein that day. Naomi

This is a great, soft, moist protein recipe.
1 1/2 lb pollock or talapia
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup grated parmesean cheese
1/2 cup low fat or fat free sour cream
S & P to taste
paprika
Arrange frozen fish in a 9 x 13 sprayed glass baking dish. Soften
the butter and mix the cheese and sour cream to make a paste. Spread
the paste over the fish. Sprinkle the tops with S & P and paprika.
Bake uncovered at 350 for 30 min. I drain it when I get it out of the
oven. (not completely) This is easy, fast, and soft. I am posting
this for the people on the soft stage, but it is great anytime. It is
so moist, you can reheat it in the mic the next day. I sometimes put
some scallops and shrimp in it also. Naomi

Hi,
I am sorry to hear about your sister. I will keep her in my prayers.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
BreastCancerStories.com
http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/
Angel Feather Loomer
www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com
Check out my other ornaments at
www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
Lots of info and gifts at:
www.cancerclub.com

Just an addition to reply, i lost my sister to the disease three years ago she
only lived a year after diagnosed, I have been fortunate and it has been 11
years, I had it first but she went first. Love Judy S

I also take amitriptyline at night and prozac during the day. I take a few
other drugs but the amy does help with sleep. I have to go to sleeping pills
which have just made me totally lousy in the morning so I stopped taking them,
it was lunesta, I am goint to tru ambien, I was on that once before and did not
have the after morning effects. Sorry I have not posted again for awhile, I was
in the hospital again for the 5th time since june, pnemonia, lack of oxygen only
80% and half conscious, I was in from tues until Fri evening. I am so tired of
this, and don't know how much more my lungs can take. Love to all Judy S.
(retailmom)

After "surviving" whole brain radiation; I started a new chemo protocol-
-daXeloda for two weeks, off one week and Avastin, every other week.
Has anyone been on this program? I had been taking Herceptin but with a
proliferation on bone tumors and fifteen brain tumors, it obviously had
stopped working ( I had taken herceptin for six years).
Also, is anyone on the "early access" tykerb protocol?
Thanks for any info...
Marian Millican

{{{ Lizanne }}}
Was this the office of the surgeon who did your RNY??? I'd have been
very frustrated with the nurses!!
I'm glad your "alien" isn't as worrisome as you feared. Do you have
any idea how long it might take to have your consult with the PS?
Interesting anatomy, Lizanne: "I will be getting blood drawn for 12
teats." No wonder you wanted a referral for PS! ~lol~
Jill
lap RNY 12-03-07
- 22.5 lbs.

no my sister wont take anything she just take pain medican she think chemo will
kill her faster and make her sicker .
marian millican <marianmrnm@...
brain radiation; I started a new chemo protocol-
-daXeloda for two weeks, off one week and Avastin, every other week.
Has anyone been on this program? I had been taking Herceptin but with a
proliferation on bone tumors and fifteen brain tumors, it obviously had
stopped working ( I had taken herceptin for six years).
Also, is anyone on the "early access" tykerb protocol?
Thanks for any info...
Marian Millican

That's a good idea!
Jill
lap RNY 12-03-07
- 22.5 lbs.

Judy sorry to hear you were in the hospital again. You will remain in my
prayers.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
BreastCancerStories.com
http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/
Angel Feather Loomer
www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com
Check out my other ornaments at
www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
Lots of info and gifts at:
www.cancerclub.com

Sounds yummy, Naomi. I really like sour cream with my baked fish!
Jill
lap RNY 12-03-07
- 22.5 lbs.

A good friend of mine started chemo two Fridays ago. She doesn't have a
computer at home, I thought I'd join a BC message board in her behalf, and share
tips with her from you girls. Her name is Penny, she was cancer free for seven
years after her initial BC, and then it came back in her bones. Its in her
marrow now, and messing up her blood counts. Chemo again....ugh...this time
they are using Avastin and Taxol. Anyone else using that combo?
:)
Laura

What a nice thing to do for your friend. I had Methotrexate, 5fu and Cytoxan. I
will keep your friend in my prayers.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
BreastCancerStories.com
http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/
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www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com
Check out my other ornaments at
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Lots of info and gifts at:
www.cancerclub.com

I have surgey on the 28th of febuary at 2:00 pm pacfic time to find out
if i have the male form of breast cancer or not if it is i'm not sure
of what they will do after that i guess they will let me know when the
time comes whats next for me
tim bower

Pattie, that sounds like such a beautiful thing to do for your
sister. What a blessing it was to spend that much time with her and
help her along her peaceful journey. :)
Kelli

Tim I will keep you in my prayers. Please let us know what you find out.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
BreastCancerStories.com
http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/
Angel Feather Loomer
www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com
Check out my other ornaments at
www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
Lots of info and gifts at:
www.cancerclub.com

Hi Laura, I have similar case with your friend Penny. I was also
cancer free for several years after mastectomy, and then it also
came back in my bone. I also having chemo again, this Friday will be
my 2nd cycle.
At my 1st chemo my doctor gave me Taxol and planned to combine it
with Avastin on the next chemo. But unexpectedly I had an allergy
with Taxol, 5 minutes after injection I felt breathless, and my head
felt so hot so the doctor stop the chemo immediately. I never had a
drug allergy before and this reaction was very rare to happen so my
doctor was very nervous. After that we decided to continue the chemo
but with slower rate, and they did it in the ICU room for safety and
to controlled my blood pressure. If I showed bad reaction, the
doctor said they will stop the chemo again and change the medicine.
But finally I finished Taxol in about 10 hours (normally only 3-4
hours) without any reaction happen again.
Because of my sudden-reaction to Taxol, for my 2nd chemo my doctor
suggested me to change the medicine to Taxotere and I agreed. He
said it's safer for me. The using of Avastin is not concluded yet,
my Dr said he would make a research for another medicine that safer
but still effective because Avastin may have more allergy risk than
Taxol.
I'm telling you this story not to make you or Penny afraid, just
share my experience for your consideration. My reaction for Taxol is
not used to happen and there's a lot of people that could have it
without any bad reaction trough the injection process. I hope Penny
don't have allergy like mine and could pass the chemo process
normally. :)
Hugs
Tyas

In the daily fight for survival our vision is blurred because our health is
compromised. This is when the enemy attacks- we lose focus and become
vulnerable. We doubt our inner strength and become discouraged and depressed.
Sometimes it seems like the fates are against us. However, lifes obstacles
should not deter us from our personal triumphs.
We must forge upward and onward to meet our goals; not necessarily our
destiny.
Be vigilant; protect the spirit. Remember the enemy is sneaky and dangerous.
My enemy is Breast Cancer. Who or what is your enemy? Have you identified it? If
you have, ask yourself a few questions and solidify a plan of action.
Cling steadfastly to beliefs. Sometimes it becomes our sole life line; our
saving grace. During the darkest hours of the storm it can become impossible to
hold on. But hold on we must. We must weather the storm. It may be necessary to
go outside our comfort zone. It may be time to re- examine our lives, question
our beliefs, and make life changing decisions.
Establish and develop a relationship with God. It is the single most proactive
choice we can make. Faith is nothing if it is not tested and tried. Stand firmly
on it; focus steadily on the enemy, and never lose site of goals. Rebuke the
demon daily in the name of Jesus and through it all laugh; it is therapeutic.
We handle the things that we can and stay optimistic, trusting in our hearts
and in our souls that God will bring us through the storm. If we believe and
have faith as tiny as a mustard seed we will be able to move mountains. Stop
worrying and feeling sorry for self; fight with every fiber of the being.
Desperate situations call for desperate measures.
The enemy must not take control of the mind, the intellect, and/ or the soul.
Keep it at bay; pray, pray, pray. Stay optimistic and nourish the spirit
regularly to keep it strong and centered.
The spirit is the core of the being- it needs sustenance. Let the spirit drink
the nourishment provided by the Lord as it hungers for righteousness. Remember
the spirit can grow weak but it will never die. Inner strength comes from the
God within. It doesnt take an awful lot to revive the spirit. Prayer and
meditation does; the Word of God fortifies the soul; they are free and always
available.
Faith, prayers and the Word of God: therein lays the inner strength in the
midst of our personal turmoil.
Faced with the challenge of life or death, I chose life and in doing so, I
made a conscious decision to be a survivor of the dreaded disease - Breast
Cancer. I let go and let God, knowing that He is well able to handle any
circumstance. I put breast cancer behind me and God ahead of me, in the order it
was meant to be, and God gave me the victory. Today I am living with the effects
of Chemo and Radiation treatments but I am living cancer free.

I took photos today because I had not taken any since Christmas (and
all of those were terrible!). I added one here, but anyone who looks
at it will probably notice the remnants of what, 2 weeks ago, was a
huge bruise underneath my eye, so I felt like I needed to acknowledge
it ahead of time. It'a almost gone... just a couple of purple streaks
and some greenish discoloration surrounding them... but it was pretty
bad until a couple of days ago. I wasn't going to post it, but well...
it is what it is.
Lora

In a message dated 2/17/2007 3:48:44 AM Central Standard Time,
parisan_asl@... writes:
Parvin,
Get Well!!! I've been so worried about you! I'm praying for you my dear!
Thank you to whoever provided this information. Please let us know how she
is doing as often as you can.
love & prayers to you. You're such a beautiful, strong woman.
Stay with us!
Love, Dari Justice

Hi to all
parvin stil in ICU (20 days) .yesterday she got chemo drugs for her lung .
because of brain metastase she can not speak. We praying for her . thank you
kathheilich@... wrote:
Thanks so much for the news
Praying for her!
Kathy

Naomi,
Thanks for the recipie Naomi. I have never really been a fish person so I
have never cooked it but I need to change that so that I am eating healthier. I
have been on a liquid diet since my surgery 1/14 and I am soooo ready to eat. I
see my surgeon tomorrow and I think he will advance my diet finally. I have been
hungry all week which suprised me I didn't expect to be hungry so soon after
surgery. Hopefully once I start eating food that hunger will go away. I will try
your recipie and see how my body likes it. Thanks again
Debby
HW/SW/CW/GW
252/225/210/140
Naomi <nsmoschgat@...
This is a great, soft, moist protein recipe.
1 1/2 lb pollock or talapia
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup grated parmesean cheese
1/2 cup low fat or fat free sour cream
S & P to taste
paprika
Arrange frozen fish in a 9 x 13 sprayed glass baking dish. Soften
the butter and mix the cheese and sour cream to make a paste. Spread
the paste over the fish. Sprinkle the tops with S & P and paprika.
Bake uncovered at 350 for 30 min. I drain it when I get it out of the
oven. (not completely) This is easy, fast, and soft. I am posting
this for the people on the soft stage, but it is great anytime. It is
so moist, you can reheat it in the mic the next day. I sometimes put
some scallops and shrimp in it also. Naomi

Oh Judy, I hope you are feeling better. I know what you mean....
will this ever end? Sometimes I go outside and shout up at the
sky, "I get it! Life's important! I've got it now!!"
My prayers are coming your way,
Kelli
(still taking ativan for the faslodex-induced anxiety)

It may be Parvins brother, he lives in Canada or possibly one of the children or
her husband.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
BreastCancerStories.com
http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/
Angel Feather Loomer
www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com
Check out my other ornaments at
www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
Lots of info and gifts at:
www.cancerclub.com

Here is a list of foods that fight cancer, courtesy of the Stanford
Health Improvement Program and the YMCA (U.S.)
http://www.informationonbreastcancer.info/breast-cancer.htm

Lora, you look amazing, bruise and all!
Jill
lap RNY 12-03-07
- 22.5 lbs.

Hi- I'm new to this list. My sister has stage 4 breast cancer and it
hit us like a ton of bricks. One day a clean mamo and a few weeks later
she is stage 4. Every where I read, it says, removal of breast or
lump, radiation, and chemo. She just had one round of chemo (lasting
six months)no removal of her breast or lump, or radiation and has
herceptin treatments every few weeks. This has been going on for almost
two years. She now is getting tired and has some joint pain. Can anyone
share with me- what happens next? Is there various stages to stage 4
like 4a, 4b, etc? Are there other drugs to try if that cancer starts
moving? Every thing I read is so void of human emotion. Any
suggestions of herbal or eastern medicine that may be real use that
anyone here uses? I feel so helpless- if I could at least do the
reseach for her maybe I can help her. Is anyone here involved in
clinical trails? What about the cancer centers that you stay at for a
few weeks- do they really help?I really appricate any response. We have
a good relationship but her cancer is like an elephant in the room that
we'll mention but never discuss that six foot high pile of dung in
detail! I know that I've asked a lot of questions- but I'm tired of
politically correct responses from doctors " you're doing
wonderful", "there are no definite answers" etc. It reminds me of being
pregnant- no one ever tells you about the baby poop that gets under
your finger nails but it happens to every women.Can someone please let
us in on what she might expect from this journey?

Read a post about not wearing deodorant for XRT and have found out why.
Most anti perspirants contain aluminium and this deflects the XRT beam so you
won't be receiving all the dose you are meant to. This also applies to some
talcum powder. You can take it with you to the hospital to put on after the
treatment dose has been given but must remember to wash it off thoroughly before
the next. Also perfumes/sprays although are unlikely to contain aluminium can
make the XRT room heavy with scent and other patients especially if this is not
to their liking complain.
Just read the label of your toiletries but ideally be freshly showered and
well rinsed before having your treatment This is what my XRT dept says ~ I hope
it helps
And all those who are having XRT don't forget to put your aloe vera gel in the
fridge it is great if you are sore ~ instant relief.
LOL Velvet x (UK)

Thank you so much for the news.........Please tell her to be strong and to
feel the Angels and Prayers that surround her............
Love,
Kathy
<BR
email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at
http://www.aol.com.

A co-worker who had lost some weight gave me some blouses that were
too big for her. I sarted going through them so I could add the ones
I didn't like to my next clothing purge box, and one of the ones I
decided to keep SAYS it is a size 16, but is bigger than the size 18
blouses in my closet and is the same size as a size 20 in my closet.
(For some reason, I could find only ONE size 20... lost of 18s and
lots of 22s...)
Anyway,the vanity sizing factor IS (apparently) real...
Lora

Stage IV does not have any a, b, c etc. Stage II can be Stage II-A, Stage II-B
and Stage III also has A&B.
Do they have plans on removing her breast? Was/is the tumor too large to remove
it before chemo? There are ladies that stay on chemo for the rest of their
lives.
As far as anything that is not FDA approved I wouldn't take it. Even some
supplements can cause problems while taking chemo. I know for a fact St John's
Wort does. I had 3 friends that went off chemo to try one of these so called
cures and all 3 friends passed away. They ALL had had better diagnosis than I
did.
I don't know anything about the Cancer Treatment Centers. You could always call
and ask them to send you some info.
I will keep your sister in my prayers.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
BreastCancerStories.com
http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/
Angel Feather Loomer
www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com
Check out my other ornaments at
www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
Lots of info and gifts at:
www.cancerclub.com

Hi,
I am not sure what you want to know but in 2001 I got stage IV breast
cancer we did chemo about 6 mo. got it I guess to stop spreading. The
reason no masectomy was because it had allready spread so it is not
good to cut open since it is in the chest wall area.I did Herceptin
weekly until 2005.Sometimes other chemo drugs if it was growing. I
have 2 sisters also and it is crazy how little they really tell us of
what to expect. It use to not be visible but now both my breasts have
bumps and skin dryness and my chest and a spot on my stomache my left
arm is swollen and there are lumps on my neck. After the Herceptin
stops working there are other drugs they will try. Herceptin is good
because you do not feel that sick. The other drugs will start to make
you feel sicker. I then had metastis to the brain everyone of us is
different. The cancer does not kill you until in organs and they
start to not work. Usually cancer patient get sick from not eating
ect. After 6 years of chemo the Dr. does not feel much more will do
more harm then good many drugs do not cross the blood brain barrier
this is my problem. I agree w/ you they do not tell you what to
expect my mom passed this year from the disease and it was horrible
watching her in the hospital.I am sure it was hard for my sisters to
watch me on Herceptin for years just not knowing when it would spread
and to where. I have it in my bones so I ache and take pain meds. It
is also in lungs and other areas. I am 39 now and do not want to give
up yet so since the Dr. dismissed me basically I now look into other
methods There is a great web site called cancertutor.com and some of
the supplements have given me more energy in days. Building the
immune system is very important and Diet ect.I feel like the Dr.s
just kept me feeling worse also in 2005 I went to a place in West
Palm that is more raw foods ect. I felt good then but got swayed to
go back on chemo. If they were gonna dismiss me in the end anyway
they should have let me stay on alternative course. I try not to be
as strict w/ diet or you will not stay w/ it but the more you read
raw or vegan diet is immportant. I guess I am getting very wordy the
point is I wish or if I could go back like your sister and after 2
years so for me in 2003 had found cancertutor.com or other methods I
would not have done so much chemo. I am going to a anouther clinic
type place soon so I will let you know what happens. Keep her spirits
up and keep reading a good book is Sick and Tired of Being Sick and
Tired by I think Bob young. I hope this helped and do not be scared
to ask questions and talk about it. I am sure your sister really does
not know what to expect either and thats why she does not say.
Best Wishes,
Lesley

Let's try a BMI calculator that's a little more fair. I trust the Centers for
Disease Control more than I trust Fitday. ;) I think they'll give you a
perspective that's a little more fair and reasonable. It sounds like Fitday
just wants to give you cause to feel bad about yourself.
Here's the link to the CDC Calculator.
http://tinyurl.com/e7u2n
~Ally~
Atlanta, GA
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/174/130
HW/SW/CW/GW
Dawn,
According to fitday.com, I am severely obese. I will not be
moderately obese until about 162 lbs and that is only if I am male
with lots of bone and muscle. .

Researchers are making some significant strides in the fight against breast
cancer.
And some promising new therapies are targeting specific steps in that process.
To get the full story, click here:
http://www.informationonbreastcancer.info/breast-cancer.htm

Kathy Just wanted to wish you a very Happy Birthday and many many more.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
BreastCancerStories.com
http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/
Angel Feather Loomer
www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com
Check out my other ornaments at
www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
Lots of info and gifts at:
www.cancerclub.com

OMG.. . i havent checked my BMI in quite a whilel so when you posted this Ally,
I checked mine. .
I am officially OVERWT my BMI being 29.9!!!!!! HOLY MOLY!!!!! I cant believe
this. . wow thanks for posting this
;-D
~*Sharon XOXO*~
"THIN feels better than FAT tastes!"
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242**SW232**CW169**GW125-130

Lizanne,
Good Luck with your journey in getting your alien taken care of and getting a
tummy tuck. Hopefully you wont have too many hoops to jump through.
Debby
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...
So, I went to the surgeon today. It's crazy in there. First you see
a nurse who does the BP, weight & asks the reason for the visit. I
told her about the "alien" and my hair loss. She was way more
interested in the hair loss. She was amazed to see all the little
hairs growing on my no longer-shiny-bald head. She had NEVER heard
of that happening to anyone after this surgery. WOW!!!
Then another nurse comes to visit. She is also amazed at my hair
loss, and my softball sized hernia, and the lack of knowledge my PCP
has. I took my lab sheet to show them what he ordered for the end of
Feb. She added 5 more tests. I told her my PCP took me off Zocor
for cholesterol, yet no tests were run to see if I still need it. I
eat plently of meat and cheese, both heavy in animal fat. Then she
asked if I saw the surgeon for an earlier check up. She was
wondering why I hadn't had any tests earlier. Then she realised that
she had taken time off for her daughter's wedding and the surgeon
doesn't believe in lab tests. Great a surgeon who doesn't believe in
labs. I totally screwed up when it comes to surgeons.
I tell her I would rather have the plastic surgeon do the surgery on
my alien. She tells me that the PS surgeon will not consider doing
any work before a year after surgery. I asked if this was a change
because she did my brother's at 10 months. Then I asked if I would
need a referal to see the PS. She said no.
Then the surgeon comes in. He looks at the alien, says he could do
the surgery but he would do nothing extra. He says the surgery needs
to be done but that the alien is not life threatening. If I went to
the PS, she would do some extra. I asked if he could give me a
referal and he says I do need one and to see his assistant.
So next, I will call my insurance company and ask what needs to be
done. Then I will get them to fax me the pages they used to
determine what needs to be done so I have something in writing. I do
that because once before they approved me for 20 visits to a
chiropractor, in writing, but later denied me because chiropractors
were not covered. I had 18 visits by then. I don't trust anyone
anymore.
Basically, I am just rambling. I am no closer to getting this taken
care of, but at least I know not to worry. Also, at the end of Feb I
will be getting blood drawn for 12 teats. That should cover just
about anything that could be wrong.
Have we heard anything more from Jessica? How about Barbara? Does
anyone know her personally?
Lizanne
251/181 (I gained .7 lbs in 4 days. UGH!!)/125

We are a quiet group. I hope that's because everyone is busy enjoying
every moment and are generally stable.
I had a CT scan last week but won't meet my oncologist until 3/9 when I
have my next regular appointment and my 4th injection of Zoladex.
I'm anxious to see if the Zoladex and Tamoxifen are "containing the
damage" in my lungs and hope that I won't need more chemo just yet.
I feel fine most of the time and am trying to walk, cycle or swim as
much as possible (trying to leave the cancer behind as I go?). I
recently had a test for a possible genetic blood clotting disorder and
was happy to learn that I didn't have the problem and that the clotting
I've had has probably been from the Tamoxifen. I'm taking a half an
aspirin a day and wearing ugly compression socks to deal with it so far.
Best wishes to all,
Kathy
in Tokyo

Velvet, this is such good advice! I wish I'd thought of that last
year. I used a really nice cream that a friend brought me from the
States and it was cool because our house is not warm in the winter, so
it did feel good. I imagine that refrigerating it would have been even
better.
I had a gut feeling that deoderant might effect some of the radiation
type events like treatments or tests, so I never wore any on those
days. It's good to hear that I wasn't the only person to think this
might be the case.
I hope that your palliative radiation is helping, you're in my prayers
and thoughts.
Kathy in Tokyo

Hi there.
I too am stage 4, there are no abc i ii or iii, it's just stage 4
unfortunately meaning that the cancer has spread and cannot be cured. However
that doesn't automatically mean the end. I have been on drugs for about 7 years
so this must tell you that it is treatable, (years ago there was very little
help but this is 2007.
The problems are that no two cancers are the same, then, no two people react
the same to drugs and this is why there are no answers, no definites but plenty
of drugs to try and plenty of different methods of combining drugs. I know this
is all so frustrating because we want answers.
From what I read I would think the present treatment is aimed at knocking
back as much as possible before going on to a management type of drug regime.
Surgery isn't always the answer and if the cancer has spread quite a bit there
really isn't any point in aiming to remove so much surgically as the body would
be too weakened by the very action and you could end up with a situation where
the treatment was worse than the disease. Surgery is often reserved for removing
symptoms. And whilst your sister has been on chemo and no doubt you have seen
her quite poorly it sounds as though things are being held back.
I can tell you love your sister dearly and want the best treatment for her but
often what you read on the net doesn't take in individial differences. Yes
surgery, chemo and radiotherapy is the general treatment especially for peolple
whose cancer has not spread but it is a very general statement, for instance I
did not have chemo when I first had cancer (and it hadn't spread)(maybe I should
have)
As for clincal trials they have their place, they are often newer drugs that
may be good but personally give me a drug that has a good working history
anytime and that is just my view. Of course the drug that has the good working
history was a trial once.
Alas I do not know of any alternative medicine that has been 'evidenced' as
effective, if you sister goes up this route advise her to inform her doctors as
some alternative meds can affect conventional treatments.
As to 'what happens next' your sister may go on a course of drug treatment
that manages her disease e.g. some anti estrogens, if her tumour is estrogen
dependent or others if not.
You mention her having joint pains, this could be from anything even arthritis
but may be a side effect from her treatment or indeed could be cancer in her
bone. What you must ensure is that she brings all her symptoms to the attention
of her medical team so they can be followed up.
I wish I could write you something that was all rosy and bright but you
said............
Answers you won't get, definites you won't get either, trying different
treatments you will get, treating the symptoms you will also get, loving her you
can, supporting her you can.
Please come back to me if you think I can help, take good care, Velvet (UK)
owllost <owllost@...
Hi- I'm new to this list. My sister has stage 4 breast cancer and it
hit us like a ton of bricks. One day a clean mamo and a few weeks later
she is stage 4. Every where I read, it says, removal of breast or
lump, radiation, and chemo. She just had one round of chemo (lasting
six months)no removal of her breast or lump, or radiation and has
herceptin treatments every few weeks. This has been going on for almost
two years. She now is getting tired and has some joint pain. Can anyone
share with me- what happens next? Is there various stages to stage 4
like 4a, 4b, etc? Are there other drugs to try if that cancer starts
moving? Every thing I read is so void of human emotion. Any
suggestions of herbal or eastern medicine that may be real use that
anyone here uses? I feel so helpless- if I could at least do the
reseach for her maybe I can help her. Is anyone here involved in
clinical trails? What about the cancer centers that you stay at for a
few weeks- do they really help?I really appricate any response. We have
a good relationship but her cancer is like an elephant in the room that
we'll mention but never discuss that six foot high pile of dung in
detail! I know that I've asked a lot of questions- but I'm tired of
politically correct responses from doctors " you're doing
wonderful", "there are no definite answers" etc. It reminds me of being
pregnant- no one ever tells you about the baby poop that gets under
your finger nails but it happens to every women.Can someone please let
us in on what she might expect from this journey?

Thanks so much Marrianne! Yes, I am now 53! And of course I celebrate it
with much fervor!
Kathy
"The soul is the same in all living creatures, although the body of each is
different. "-Hippocrates
<BR
email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at
http://www.aol.com.

Hi Kathy,
It sure is quiet in here. I don't know whats going on. Haven't heard anymore on
Parvin, just that shes been in ICU for over 20 day.
Hugs
Marianne
Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life
http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html
BreastCancerStories.com
http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/
Angel Feather Loomer
www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com
Check out my other ornaments at
www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html
Lots of info and gifts at:
www.cancerclub.com

Thanks Kathy for your lovely post. Any suncreams in hot climates are also
welcome in the fridge ~ much more soothing and cooling. Hope you are well LOL
Velvet (UK)
Kathy S <kathy.sugio@...
advice! I wish I'd thought of that last
year. I used a really nice cream that a friend brought me from the
States and it was cool because our house is not warm in the winter, so
it did feel good. I imagine that refrigerating it would have been even
better.
I had a gut feeling that deoderant might effect some of the radiation
type events like treatments or tests, so I never wore any on those
days. It's good to hear that I wasn't the only person to think this
might be the case.
I hope that your palliative radiation is helping, you're in my prayers
and thoughts.
Kathy in Tokyo

Please note if the cancer is ER or PR or ER/PR positive this food list is
incorrect. Traditional medical researchers are often funded by Big Pharma,
Big Food and Big Chemical. Reality.
Blissed be, Annie
Anne Kaspar
Health and Wellness Consultant
www.bodybybliss.com
bodybybliss@...

My surgeon, who recently emailed me and told me it would be months
until my surgery, just now called me and told me that my surgery is
THIS THURSDAY!!!! I am in the middle of opening a new clinic... going
to buy office supplies, equipment, and furniture today!! I will work
this out though...
Geez, when he told me I had months to go... I started pigging out,
thinkng I had a LOT of time to lose weight before surgery. I haven't
weighed myself in weeks, and am afraid to now. I am going to do liquid
diet until I go to pre-op Weds.
Pat

pat,
How exciting!!! OMG, you don't even have time to worry about the
surgery. Do you have a weight reduction requirement? When is the
clinic supposed to open? Do you have enough people to work on this
project while you are recuperating? Buy that furniture, etc and
begin writing down all you need to get done for both your surgery and
your clinic. Then start delegating. Get your dad involved in
something little. It will help him feel needed.
Oh, I am just so excited for you. Who is your angel? Buy that
protein, get those popsicles, pack that chapstick. YIPPEE!!!
Lizanne

Dawn, I'm glad you are trying the book, it will help him realize that
quitting was the best thing he could have done and that staying quit -
even though he is very nervous - when most of us would really be
craving a smoke - that staying quit is the best thing