Anyone due to start their chemo July 2014

[Karen2609]

Glad the pain has improved and that you are feeling a bit more optimistic. Fingers crossed you avoid the bone scan x

[hbunny]

Thanks Karen.  I'm sure I'm just being daft and there is nothing to worry about. I figure a late response to the radiotherapy and overstretched.  Anyway gone back to basics with the initial exercises and massage and the pain has improved, so fingers crossed it will solve itself by the time I go beck at the beginning of Nov and no bone scan will be needed.  It still feels like all the intercostal muscles and boob rather than bone which follows the radiotherapy area.   Not spoken to my bcn since dx so not much support there.

Anyway glad your birthday was a happy affair.  Onwards and upwards ladies.  Hugs all round xx

[Karen2609]

Hi Clare, I'm just back from the BRA meeting, met some amazing ladies who bravely showed us their reconstructed boobs. Although I've seen pictures/photos actually seeing real reconstructions was so encouraging, I was surprised how good they all looked. Can't wait to get going now, have you heard anymore about when yours will be?

[Karen2609]

Thanks for the birthday wishes Slyolddog and Cath, just glad it wasn't better than last year!
Sending big hugs Hbunny, we all know the cardinal rule not to google symptoms but I think it is the first thing we all do. Are you able to talk about your concerns with your BCN or anyone? Hope results put your mind at rest soon
Xx

[CathC]

Hi hbunny - glad the breast clinic was able to reassure you.

I had reduced shoulder movement on my op side, but was told I'd torn a rotator cuff. Swimming seems to be helping with that.

ETA: I see you posted later that you googled your symptoms. I guess we've all done that and scared the beejesus out of ourselves.

I know four weeks seems like an awful long time when you're worrying, but hopefully the time will pass quickly.

sending big hugs.

Karen - Happy 50th birthday. I hope you got spoilt rotten. Don't worry about the weight, that ironing basket will empty eventually. rofl.

Hugs to all

Cath

[hbunny]

Hi ladies, well after feeling a little reassured yesterday after my visit to breast clinic I've done the ultimate stupid thing and googled bone mets and of course now diagnosed myself. Pain is worse again today, after feeling better, but maybe that's because I forgot to take the curcumin this am and that has been masking the pain. Will have to just keep an I over the next 4 weeks and fingers crossed it will go away! Anyone else with upper rib pain?

[Slyolddog]

Belated happy birthday Karen, I hope you had a great one. Good luck with getting your op done sooner than expected. 💐

[Karen2609]

Hi Ladies

I'm glad to hear that your pain seems to be easing, Hbunny, looks like you are just going to have to rest up a bit. How's your trigger thumb now? Did the op cure it? My left shoulder still has slightly restricted movement after the ANC but I had a frozen shoulder on that side a few years ago and it's not as bad as that.

I can't remember who mentioned problems with fingernails, luckily I've never had any trouble with my nails. I don't know if it helped but I wore black nail polish on my finger/toe nails through docetaxol and paclitaxol or maybe I was just lucky.
Went to see the reconstruction nurse today and reiterated that I can come in at short notice so she phoned the admissions secretary while I was there and my file has been noted. She also said if I didn't mind another consultant doing the op it might be able to get it done quicker!
I've spent the last week celebrating my 50th and have put on loads of weight, really need to move that ironing basket off the treadmill and use it for what it's intended.
Hope everyone has a good weekend xx

[hbunny]

Hi lovely ladies, just a catch up following my appt at the breast clinic re New pains around the breast.  Although still painful, especially when sneezing (feels like a broken rib) the pain has eased considerably over the last week or so, so apparently not much to worry about, however if it hasn't dissipated within another 4 weeks they will send me for a bone scan, assumption is muscle but nothing definite.  

In answer to your question Slyoldog re which scar, I'm not really sure and would probably say both, the pain seems to move around depending on what I'm doing.  Not really concerned though as its certainly getting better, especially with the enforced rest.  True to form I've probably overdone the exercise - be warned, one more reason to take it easy lol.

Anybody else experiencing reduced shoulder movement, mine seems to be getting tighter all the time despite doing yoga throughout?

Oh I forgot, apparently no sign of lymphodema, even though I still feel like I fave an extra lump of squishy fat.

[CathC]

Oooh, lots of new posts.

Flossie - Congrats on the hair growth AND the fringe. lol

Glad to hear your surgeon is happy with your progress, but sorry to hear you're now going through the menopause.

I went through the menopause early - at 40 - so I was a few years into it before my chemo started. But I know how much of a shock it can be so sending you huge hugs.

Hi Hubunny - good news on the hair, as for the nails...I never had any problem with mine but then I only had FEC.

Oooh, Flossie - all your nails and toenails fell out!! How horrible. Glad to hear they've gown back again.

Slyolddog,

Sorry to hear you're having discomfort in your arm. Sounds like we're all having similar problems in that area, although none of our docs seem too worried about it - easy for them to say, huh?

Hope you have fun in Canada. As for insurance I read that insurancewith.com is supposed to be really good (and cheap) Might be worth a look.

As for the weekend with my son...it was like old times, he may not have had his xbox, but he brought his laptop home with him so it was all picture no volume again .lol

I'm glad you had a good time with your cousins and your stepmother. Putting your dad's ashes in a frame sounds lovely. I've also seen people put them in pieces of jewellery, which is nice.

I'm so enjoying the weather here at the minute. Sunshine just brings a smile to my face.

Hubby and I are off swimming in a bit and afterwards I'm hoping to talk him into taking me out for lunch. Before the big C I would never have gone out anywhere after swimming as my hair looks like crap. Now I no longer care. It's hair!

Hope all the July ladies are enjoying the sunshine

Hugs

Cath

[Slyolddog]

Hi Ladies

This page has gone from very quiet to very active quite quickly! I was waiting until I'd had my weekend away to post something and now I find I'm 'suffering' a lot of the same issues that some of you have written about.

hbunny - like you I'm suffering in the op area and shoulder blade. You don't say which scar is the problem, is it the node removal site or the lump removal site?  I went to see my GP last week (with a list!) as I had concerns about the constant discomfort from my node clearance and because I thought I had some lympoedema. He said that everything looked OK, I'm not convinced that there's not some lymphoedema. I already had bingo wings now I have a jelly like add-on and whenever I lower my arm it feels like there's something under the armpit. I've decided to have the same conversation when I see my surgical team in December.  My boob actually woke me up the other night as it was hurting, I think it's just nerve cells having a turn.

Karen - fully sympathise with the cannula issue. My GP referred me for a blood test because of my tiredness, the nurse couldn't get any blood and had to call the assistant. She almost had the same result with a finer needle, luckily just as she was about to give up she managed to tap in and all was good.  I had to look the other way though. I wonder how long it takes the veins to recover, and if they're still suffering what's the rest of our body doing??

Wendy -  sorry to hear that you lost your cousin so young, that must be awful . However I'm so pleased that your husband is doing so well and that you enjoyed your holiday.  And Canada in December, how fantastic. It's just over 5 weeks until we go off to Australia and I can't wait. Mind you the price of insurance was a bit of a shock, £376.00. Anyone else finding this to be the case? I've mad enquiries for the US next May as we're taking the family to Disney and I've been quoted £450.00, more than the cost of the flight! 

Gill - what a fantastic job you have. It must be so rewarding although a 13 hour shift must be a stretch. Following that with a children's party would finish me off.

Flossie - sorry to hear you're still suffering menopause symptoms. I slipped into mine naturally at about your age so I'm pretty much done with it. Get the odd hot flush but nothing major. The worse part is that everything's dry, and by everything I mean everything!! I wish I was still having periods.

Cath - how was the weekend with your son? Did he have much to say or did he sit looking at where his x box used to be?

We've been up to Lincoln for the weekend, drove out to the coast on Saturday and it was glorious. Met some American cousins on Friday and took my stepmother out for lunch yesterday.  She is picking up now. She has scattered dad's ashes on the flower beds, which is odd as he hated gardening as much as she loved it! She has given me some of the ashes and I will be looking out for some sort of photo frame to put them in. It might sound like an odd choice but there's a pet crematorium near here and they do some lovely frames which have boxes on the back for ashes. 2 of our dogs are in frames.

Anyway ladies, enough waffle. I hope everyone's niggles get sorted soon and you all have a lovely week.  

[Candyflossie]

Hi Hbunny,

Just came inside from soaking up some sunshine while it lasts. My nails and toenails have all fallen out and grown out now. Fingernails started falling around 4 months after finishing chemo and toenails around 6 months. I remember that some were stubborn and did not look like they wanted to grow, but they are growing underneath. They grew really weird for a while all ridged but they smoothed out in time and now they're all fine. I guess it's different for everyone and depends on your diet. I did take some sea kelp tablets for a short period of time, only one tablet a day.

Love,
Flossie xxx

[hbunny]

HI flossy, cath.  What a lovely day hope everyone is soaking up some vit D.

Well just had my 3rd hair cut, was so pleased to get rid of the curls again, actually have a style now and although short, which is normal for me anyway, is thick and dark so not asking for any more than that - happy bunny!

Just wondering how everyone's nails are doing, mine appear to have grown out and although dry and brittal are at least attached, except for one which is still 3/4 white and lifted and doesn't seem to be growing out.  Anyone else with issues 11 months on - wow 11 months.

Love to all. Hbunny

[Candyflossie]

Hello July 2014 ladies,

I cannot believe it has been a year since we were all going through the joys of chemo SE's and baldness.

Hair growth is really good now, I am also taking Nourkrin twice a day and plan to do so for another 3 months, just to be rest assured  I have given myself all the chances possible. And I have a fringe too, yippee!!!

I hear some of you are still going through recon etc. and cannot imagine what it must be like.

I saw my surgeon on Wednesday and he has checked both breasts and thinks the pain is normal in my operated one; lots of scar tissue he says, but nothing abnormal, Very short appointment, I guess this is a waiting game now, keeping positive until next time in March I will see the oncologist.

Periodwise, they have not returned yet, so still dealing with menapause symptoms at 42 not nice...

All the best to each and everyone of you 

Love,

Flossie xxx

[CathC]

Karen - so sorry to hear about your episode with the cannula, sounds horrible. When do you get the results? Keeping my fingers crossed for you.

I'm still having a bit of trouble with my veins. The last few blood tests they did to check my ESR levels they couldn't find a vein and had to take from my hand again.

Like you, I'm hoping that will improve the longer we can rest them.

hbunny - so glad to hear your op went well, although the vein in the side of your wrist does sound painful.

Here's hoping the improvement continues and enjoy your PJ week. lol

Let us know how you get on at the clinic next week. Will be thinking of you. *Hug*

As for my pains...the steroid injection helped for a couple of weeks but I'm back to taking my tabs full time now (I hate taking tabs. Ghrrr)

Pain and I are old friends so I can handle it - I just wish it would bugger off on holiday for a bit. LOL

Hope everyone is enjoying the sunshine.

Hugs

Cath

[hbunny]

Morning all, just popping in to catch up.  Karen, sounds like you had a painful time with the cannula.  I'm still suffering with that one, had an op to release a trigger thumb and finger yesterday and had the same problem, they had to use a vein on the inside of the wrist, which was painful as they are so much smaller, so I sympathise.  On the plus side I can already wiggle my thumb, big improvement but the bandage is so big can't get any tops on lol will have to have a pj week.  At least I have some lovely Sun for my enforced annual leave.

Back to breast clinic next week for a check as getting pains around the scar and upper back and also some puffiness, not sure if I over stretched at the gym and the muscle isn't healing as quick as it did, lymphodema or a trapped nerve, still want to discount anything else though just to put mind at rest.  Cath how are your pains now? 

Enjoy the day everyone.

Hugs to all hbunny xx

[Karen2609]

Hi All, glad to see that everyone seems to be getting on well and going forward. Cath, I can't wait for the day the Xbox leaves home my youngest drives me mad with it!

Had my abdominal scan, was a bit of a nightmare as no one could get the cannula in, even the doctor they called up from theatre ( I had to have scan at the Nuffield, it's a different world!). Eventually they gave up and just had to use the smallest cannula which apparently doesn't work as well for that procedure. At least that's all done now and my veins can have a rest. Is anyone else having problems with their veins still?
Lovely and bright here today, little chilly but I don't mind that I love autumn.
Take care all x

[CathC]

Hi Wendy - yup, been very quiet on the site, but that's a good thing. Means everyone is out living their lives.

Did you get your good weather? Ours hasn't been too bad, but there's a definite chill in the air. Autumn is here with a vengeance.

Gill - a birthday party for a one-year-old and her friends!!! You really are a glutton for punishment. lol

Things are ticking along nicely here. Youngest seems to have settled into college life. He's coming home this weekend so I'm hoping to catch up with everything that's happened to him. Mind you, he's a typical 18 year old and doesn't do a lot of talking. On the plus side, his xbox and tv are in his college rooms so he'll have to talk to us. lol

Hugs to all the July ladies

Cath

[lilac55]

Hi everything.

Wendy pleased to here Hubble so much better and returning to work.We all need to live our lives to the full even on the rainy days ( like today ) just enjoy the feeling of rain on the face.

Cath.am only going to work 3 days a week now that I am 60 but of course that is not 9-5 .on Saturday I was on call and worked 13 hours!!!! .I attended a waterbirth at home,very special .ached by time got home.

Yesterday was my granddaughters first birthday so had party at my house (in the garden) for 15 adults and 15 children hence today my plan is resting.Am still in bed writing this.

Good news that abnormal bloods are due to your AS .

HOPE all July ladies are busy getting on with their lives and enjoying themselves.

Hugs Gill

[WP23]

Hi Cath

It has been busy for you, and the last chick leaving the nest, they never really leave though do they?? i think we aorry about them more when they are not close by!!

Fabulous news re your bloods, well worth the shot lol 🙂

The weather  forecasters are saying we are going to have a couple of nice weeks of weather, yipee, it has been a very disappointing summer so far.

Very quiet on the forum lately, hope everyone is well and enjoying life.

Take care July ladies

Wendy x

[CathC]

Hiya ladies,

Gill - I know what you mean about kindles/tablets. I don't even attempt to answer posts on my ipad or phone. Losing posts has got to be the worst!

I love your post about good weather, spending the day in the garden and walking the dog on the beach - sounds blissful. Hoping your days are still as blissful. And yes, so very different to last year!

Sorry to hear your hair isn't thickening. Mine seems to be back to its usual length/thickness. Still curly, which is a pain, but not as much as I would have thought. I'm still thankful for hair, so not complaining. lol

Are you back at work full time? How's that going for you?

Clare - with you re the love/hate feeling for chemo. I'm verging more on the love at the moment, seeing as I've got the all-clear from the onc (or as much as someone with tnc can get.)

Received results from the doc today – looks like the worrisome blood results are down to my AS and not any recurrence of cancer. Whoo-hoo! Well worth a steroid shot in the butt. lol

Wendy, so glad you had a good time on your cruise, and that your appointment with the onc went well.

So sorry to hear about your cousin. Must have been terrible to hear about that while you were away. Sending you huge hugs.

And I definitely agree with your hubby "Do it now." Wise words. One of the greatest gifts I've found on this cancer journey is the understanding not to put things off. In the immortal words of someone... "Life isn't a dress rehearsal." This is it, ladies. 

Been a really long week for me. 3 days in London then home to pack up youngest and take him to college today. My last chick has left the nest. 😞

I’m attempting to see that as an opportunity. If I become maudlin I give you all permission to kick my butt.

Sending hugs to all the July ladies.

Onwards and upwards.

Cath

[WP23]

Hi everyone

Just a quick post.

Had a lovely British Isles Cruise, was really good and met some lovely people.

Had check up with oncologist on Monday and he is happy, I seem to be checked out a lot more than some ladies but this is down to the Herceptin trial, it gives me peace of mind though so that is good.

Hope everyone is doing well, looks like autumn has arrived, it is quite chilly at night and early morning here 😞

Cath, sorry to hear you are in London for a funeral, hope you are doing ok.

My poor cousin died while I was on holiday, such a sad and tragic loss at 56. I visited her grave on Saturday and it broke my heart to think what this devastating disease can do.

Hubby is at last doing better and has returned to work on a phased return on Monday.

We have also booked another trip, to Canada in December to see family. The last trip had to be cancelled due to my chemo!!!

Hubby says we have to "do it now" and I agree, keep booking holidays :):)

Off to work now, need to credit some hours as I don't have enough leave left for all our trips!!!! lol

Take care ladies

Wendy xx

[lilac55]

Whoops yes that's right .heart was muga scan I think.just goes to show my brain is addled from the chemo !!!!

[sugar8]

Hi Cath and Gill. 

You're right Cath the thread is slow this week so hope that's a good sign and everyone's gettiing on well in life. You must still be in London. So sorry about your loss. You didn't say who in the family died. Hope you are coping emotionally. ((hugs)).

Gill.. definitely a much better year with no chemo. I still hate the B****d in spite of the fact I know it helped but It's the culprit for all the aches and pains. A reminder of the difficult days  but musn't grumble 

I thought they did DEXA scan for bone density and cardio scan for the heart LVEF (left ventricule ejection fraction) to access heart damage from Herceptin???  Maybe each hospital is different 

[lilac55]

Hi everyone.

Little kindles are definitely not easy to reply to everyone.I have managed to delete my reply/ update several times after carefully replying to individuals so have given up.

Cath the weather has been beautiful today,spent day in garden then took dog to beach where she romped in the sea.

How different this year is to last.We were in the throws of chemo just getting though each day now seems surreal.

At last I think my hair is getting thicker.feels it is taking forever.it's about an inch long all over .very sparce eyebrows..Will need to wear hats again this winter if it doesn't thicken more.

HOPE everyone ok and not having too many aches and pains.I had a dexa scan pre chemo cos of possible side effects to heart.

Well it's time for bed as working tomorrow and 24 hours on call.!! The joys of being a midwife.

Take care of yourselves.hugs Gill

[CathC]

Hi Clare,

Great news on your DEXA scan, but how scary to think you slipped through the net on your pre letrozole scan.

It's quiet on the thread this week. Must mean everyone is doing well.

Weather has been lovely here, but is forecast to change at the weekend. I'm over to London then for a family funeral so here's hoping the weather there is better.

Hugs to all the July ladies

Cath

[sugar8]

Hi Cath- Great that your check up went well and you feel free. It seems that the journey is never ending isn't it? Must be great to get to that stage. Whoohoo

Waw Karen Your Chelmsford hospital seems to be so much more organised!! BRA session??? No info given to me about that. It sounds like such a good idea ... I hope I see my surgeon again and a nurse before my op!! No word yet!  Good luck re mammogram results

Hi slyolddog- Good to hear from you.  My hair's growing back but I don't think I'm ever going to let it grow long again so I'm happy

Karen- how was the BBQ and cricket. Hope the weather held up.  

 Hi hbunny- Glad that you're getting your hands sorted soon. It must be a relief.

Well ladies had my DEXA scan ...good news, all well. The sonagrapher reckons that I slipped through the net!! i should have had a pre letrozole scan 

Plodding along onward and upwards.

love

Clare

[CathC]

---

@hbunny wrote:

Hi ladies, it's been a while but I'm still here, just lots going on.  Finally got an appt re the trigger thumb and booked in for op on thumb and little pinky plus steroid injection in opposite wrist on 24th, oh so looki g forward to that.  

LOL - you make me laugh, hbunny. Good luck for the 24th. Hope the injection works.

Dad's doing better, still in rehab gaining weight but won't be safe to go home.  I've been spending hours looking at care homes, OMG some of them have made me cry, what a disgrace the way we treat our older folks!  

I know! We nursed my dad through Altzheimers for 10 years, were close to having to pick a home for him when he died. A blessing. Some of the homes...  horrendous 😞

Spoiler

Also had the news of my best friends husband having testicular cancer, what a shock. This horrible disease certainly has no barriers, he's doing well though so fingers crossed for another joining the club.

Crossing all digits. I hate cancer, it takes so many good people. I've just lost my brother-in-law. He fought so hard - lung and brain cancer. He was truly one of the good guys.

On a happier note, I'm so pleased to hear everyone is doing well with no set backs, keep it up ladies, keep fighting and keep smiling.

+ 1. Can't believe how well our July ladies are doing  the ones who check in. I was so scared at the start, for the outcome, but we all seem to be doing so well. we rock!!

Cath so pleased to hear you more or less finished, although the sense of smell thing isn't fair, there must be something to help - go stand in a field of cows and see if that gets the senses going.

ROFL! Tried it, or at least, tried the compost bin - didn't work. Guess there are some perks? 🙂

Little kindles aren't good for replying individually, so before I loose the lot ill go jab a cuppa.

Oh first holiday of the year and off to the lakes for a week with hubby and dog, pray for some sun, I need it too.

Praying! I think we all could so with some sun.

Take care all. Hbunny xx

---

[hbunny]

Hi ladies, it's been a while but I'm still here, just lots going on.  Finally got an appt re the trigger thumb and booked in for op on thumb and little pinky plus steroid injection in opposite wrist on 24th, oh so looki g forward to that.  Dad's doing better, still in rehab gaining weight but won't be safe to go home.  I've been spending hours looking at care homes, OMG some of them have made me cry, what a disgrace the way we treat our older folks!  Also had the news of my best friends husband having testicular cancer, what a shock. This horrible disease certainly has no barriers, he's doing well though so fingers crossed for another joining the club.

On a happier note, I'm so pleased to hear everyone is doing well with no set backs, keep it up ladies, keep fighting and keep smiling.

Cath so pleased to hear you more or less finished, although the sense of smell thing isn't fair, there must be something to help - go stand in a field of cows and see if that gets the senses going.

Little kindles aren't good for replying individually, so before I loose the lot ill go jab a cuppa.

Oh first holiday of the year and off to the lakes for a week with hubby and dog, pray for some sun, I need it too.

Take care all. Hbunny xx

[CathC]

Hi Slyolddog,

I treated myself with cake and wine. Not that I could taste either, but that didn't stop me trying. lol

In answer to your question, I think my taste buds are okay. I can distinguish between sweet/sour/salty etc it's just that I can smell to taste anything. 😞

Morecambe and Wise - there's a blast from the past. I remember watching them with my dad, he was a big fan! (And, as there was only one TV in the house at the time, we became fans too. lol)

My hair is back to its normal length, which is very short. But finally, finally, my fringe is back! Whoo-hoo!

I'm still curly, what about you?

Karen - think you're right re the summer, or lack of. I'm so disappointed that we didn't get more sun this year. Don't know about you lot but my bones are craving some sunlight.

Hope the weather stays dry for your BBQ tonight.

Happy weekend everyone.

Hugs

Cath

[Karen2609]

Hi Slyolddog, my hair seems to be taking forever to grow too, although it is nearly the same length now and starting to look slightly more like my old bob style. I did read somewhere that letrozole can slow regrowth down but I don't know how true that is.
I think I blinked and missed summer, it seems like autumn is here with a vengeance now. BBQ at cricket club tonight going to make sure I'm wrapped up well.

Take care x

[Slyolddog]

 Cath - congratulations on your check up results, like Karen says treat yourself with some cake! You must feel greatly relieved. Sorry you are still lacking a sense of smell, how are your taste buds coming along?

Weather here has been awful, I have a feeling that's pretty much the same story all over. There goes summer.

How's everyones hair doing? If I raise my eyebrows as high as I can they almost touch my fringe!! Still seems painfully slow though.

Sat here watching Morecambe and Wise re-runs, do they ever stop being funny or am I just a certain age??

Take care everyone.

[Karen2609]

Hi Clare, are you due to see your PS again before your op? If so, I hope you have a more positive meeting. I'm not going to see mine again until surgery but I do have an appointment with the reconstruction nurse in October just to go over everything the surgeon told me and then I will have to book to attend a BRA session where you meet ladies who have been through Diep and they share their experiences. As Cath says, you can't be too sensitive about your boob, especially when you are placing all your trust in the surgeon. I'm sure he will do a brilliant job, it's just a shame sometimes their people skills are lacking.

Cath, so glad your appointment went well today and that you passed your check up with flying colours. I don't think they realise how disconcerting it is to receive an appointment that you're not expecting. I hope you are celebrating with a nice big cake tonight 🍰. I'm still waiting for my mammogram results......
Take care x

[CathC]

Karen - sorry to hear about your disappearing post. That has happened to me a couple of times - so frustrating.

How are you doing otherwise?

Clare - I don't think any of us can be too sensitive about our boobs. Not now. And you have to be confident in your surgeon. Here's hoping when you meet him again he's upped his bedside manner.

My onc appointment went well today. It was really just a follow-up. (~why can't they say that on the letter? Ghrr)

I was given a thorough check-up and passed with flying colours. Whoo-hoo. They will send for me once more, in 6 months to make sure I'm still doing well and then that's it, I'm free!

Well, I will have self-assessment appointments in my local hospital, but other than that  I'm done!!!

It's hard to believe. In some ways my cancer journey seems to have begun aeons ago, in others, it seems like only yesterday.

Now, if I could only get my sense of smell back I'd be one happy bunny. lol

Hugs to all the July ladies

Cath

[sugar8]

Hi Julie.. Have great fun and exercise in Norfolk. Hope the weather stays sunny for you x x

Cath.... It's the only plastic surgeon available in the trust so that's that. I shall adjust. and I know he's good.... it's probably a personal transferance problem LOL . I am probably too sensitive about my boobs

Karen- so frustrating about losing your typed words. Stay upbeat and hope your stiff hip resolved ASAP

Take care

Love

Clare 

[Karen2609]

Aargh, just spent ages typing a post and its disappeared! That hasn't happened to me for ages, so just a quick post now.
Cath, good luck with your onc on Tuesday.
Julie and Wendy, hope you are both having lovely holidays despite the weather.
Clare and Gill, yep stiff joints especially in the mornings, mines worst in my right hip.
Slyolddog, well done for getting back on the treadmill, you're making me feel very guilty... I really must make more effort!
Sorry for the short post but I can't face writing long(ish) responses to everyone and then possibly losing it all again.
Take care, all hope this rain disappears soon
Karen

[CathC]

Clare, can't you ask to change surgeon if you don't feel comfortable with the one you have?

And congrats on the clear mammogram!! Brilliant news!

Julie, have a fab time in Norfolk. Hope the weather stays well for you so you can get lots and lots and LOTS of walking done. lol

Happy bank holiday weekend everyone.

Hugs

Cath

[JuSt]

Hi Ladies, hope you are all well

Just a quick hi before we go off on hols to Norfolk for a week tomorrow.  My fitness plan has failed miserably so far but hope to get out walking lots this week as the doggies are coming on holiday with us - weather permitting that is!

Clare - congrats on clear mammogram results x

Cath - good luck at oncologist appt on Tuesday, let us know how you get on x

Wendy - hope you have a lovely cruise x

Sorry, not got time to reply to everyone individually but hope you are all enjoying the last of the summer  (if that's what you can call it?!).

Wishing you all a lovely bank holiday weekend.

Julie
x

[sugar8]

Hi Karen- Great news about your reconstruction waiting list . hope you have it done earlier. I didn't even ask how long my list was ... just burying my head in the sand. I like I said I didn't feel comfortable with the surgeon.

Slyolddog= Can't compare as i had sentinel node biopsy (only 2 nodes removed) and no discomfort.

Cath- good to know that raised ESR wasn't linked with the C. Hope you're feeling better after the steroid injection, Good luck with your oncologist appt. Mine's on the 29th Sept. 

Gill- I can empathise re stiff joints esp the Left hip. Thank God it loosen up quickly or I would never get ready on time in the mornings...... Hope we get rid of  this side effect  some time in the future

Wendy.. Have lots of fun on your British Isle cruise... I am going to York in October with my son.  Yes my GP called and has now referred me for the Dexa scan. It's to  monitor bone density to detect osteoporosis which can be a SE of letrozole. Letrozole can also increase your cholesterol   levels.

Glad hubby is on the mend. have a great holiday.

Well girls my mammogram results came back clear. Guess what!!  I also got an invite for routine screening on the 4th Sept   Rang them to decline of course. 

well saying goodbye... stay upbeat  girls

Love

Clare

[CathC]

Gill - how are the aches and pains now?

Weather is still terrible here - not really conducive to getting outside and walking - least that's my excuse. lol

Wendy - so glad to hear hubby is starting to feel better. Are you off on your cruise this Saturday? (I've lost track of the days) Hope you have a fab time and the sun shines on you both.

Summer has been hit and miss here - more of a miss. Hard to believe the kids are back to school full-time next week!

Maybe we'll have an Indian summer. I know my bones could do with some sunshine.

I'm back to the oncologist next Tuesday. Not sure why. I thought I was done with her till next year. I'm guessing it probably has something to do with my recent blood tests. Or do they take you back to discuss your 'normal' mammogram results?

Hugs to all the July ladies

Cath

[WP23]

Hi July ladies

Julie - did you start your fitness plan?
I have put on soooo much weight I feel really unhealthy, but I am going on holiday this week so will start when I get back 🙂 good that you noticed the snake cage, it makes me shiver just thinking about it lol x

Hi Flossie - great news all round, holiday, exam results and your mammo, I bet you are one happy lady x

Hi Cath - great news on the exam results too, empty nest!! it is so hard when they go, but not long until you have your grandchild, im sure that will fill your days with so much pleasure x

Clare - did your doctors get back to you about the dexa scan?? what is dexa scan?
Have you booked a nice trip yet, that is all that keeps me going, planning holidays:) tell hubby you will be him a nice DIY present if you get your holiday :):)

Hi Karen - how were the results, did your daughter get what she wanted?? good news your on the list for your op, hope you don't have to wait too long though x

Hi slyolddog - I didn't have ANC, but it sounds horrid, have you asked your GP if there is anything you can do to help? x

Hi Gill - I think we are all suffering with stiff joints especially in the morning, I have to come down the stairs like a crab, it is awful. Lets hope things improve with time eh x

Well, thanks for all your good wishes, hubby is finally starting to feel better and just in time as we are going on a British isles cruise next Saturday :):) cant wait, hope this weather improves, what a miserable summer it has been so far.

Hope everyone is well

Wendy x

[lilac55]

Hi July ladies. 

Lots going on with everyone at present.

Clare book that holiday.life is too short.If Hubble prefers DIY get out of his hair and find a friend.

Um exercise!!!! I tell myself busy in garden so can't fit time in for the gym.Will start again in winter ,I know it's just an excuse.

Oh those stiff joints in the morning.like an 80 year old till they loosen up .hate it.

Karen 18 months seems a long wait is this normal? I am grateful that don't need reconstruction.like some of you still have some discomfort in the breast..hate that numbness in upper arm and down side cos nodes were removed but tell myself to be grateful 

Wendy hope Hubble on the mend .

Cath empty nest. Boo hoo.if like mine always returning .They still consider the bedrooms as theirs especially my daughter.I just love family get togethers.

Still dossing in bed as weather awful.need to walk dog and visit Tesco 's so must sign off now.looks after yourselves ladies .hugs Gill x

[CathC]

Hi Clare,

 I think we all have those moments of feeling our dreams are drifting by. One thing I think we've all learned from our brush with the big C is not to put stuff off.

If hubby doesn't like travelling definitely get another travelling companion.

Have you heard anything more about your Dexa scan?

Karen - congrats on finally getting on the waiting list for your recon. Will keep my fingers crossed that you get a cancellation.

Hope your daughter got the GCSE results she needs.

My youngest has now decided he want to go to college instead of doing the foundation course so it looks like I'm going to have an empty nest come Sept. 😞

Slyolddog - had to laugh at your comment about starting an adult learning course. I'm a bit like you, don't like to move on dark evenings. I did, however do a computer course a few years ago and enjoyed it immensely. A crowd of us went and it was a lot of fun.

Congrats on getting back on your treadmill. I have to admit I've been very lax in that area lately. I'm starting to feel guilty every time I pass the treadmill. lol

Not quite sure what ANC op is? I had a lumpectomy and snb and still have a lot of discomfort around the wound site. Onc has recommended physio but I'm not holding my breath as there's a very long waiting list.

My hair has reached a nice length now - I've always kept mine short - but it's still very curly when wet. Not that I'm complaining, delighted just to have hair again.

We have some sunshine here today which I intend to enjoy - maybe go for a walk along the shore. I'm sure the rain will be back before too long. lol

Oh, re my raised ESR levels, both my rheumatologist and oncologist agreed I should get a steroid injection. I got it Wednesday in the butt - made a change from flashing my boobs. lol

Have a good weekend ladies

Hugs

Cath

[Slyolddog]

Hello Ladies, how's everyone doing tonight?

Karen, so glad you're on the list at last, hopefully you won't have to wait thr whole 18 months.

Clare, you need to sort your husband out! There's a time to do DIY and a time to go travel. (Says the woman whose house needs some attention!) I'm too knackered to do anything at the moment though.

Cath, well done to your son for passing all his exams, a great achievement. This time of year always makes me think of starting an adult learning course. Then I remember I don't like going out on dark evenings and I'm a tad lazy so I do nothing.

Flossie, another bright child! It's always good news when hardwork pays dividends for the young. Which Hawaiian Island did you go to? We went to Oahu and that was lovely but plenty of traffic!

Julie, like you I'm feeling unfit and weight is slowly creeping up. Really need to take action, a bit of exercise might make me feel more lively.

Cath, hope you enjoyed the christening and the weather was good. I love a family get together, went to see family on sunday who live in Abu Dhabi, it was lovely to catch up.

Julie, it took me 9 months to pluck up the courage to pick up a lizard, it would take a whole lot longer for me to deal with a snake! Mind you at least they're smooth, getting hold of a lizard feels like picking up a scab with legs! And worse still it sheds and leaves little hollow feet all over!

Wendy, how's your husband now? Hopefully the antibiotics have worked their magic now and he's on the up.

hbunny, hope all's well with your dad.

Still ticking along here, still feeling very tired. Like most I normally stagger round the bedroom like an old lady when I first get up before my hips have warmed up. I finally got going back on the treadmill today after a 2-3 month gap. They say exercise gives you energy so we'll see. We've moved it up to my daughter's bedroom so there's plenty of room. No excuse now. 

I really feel for you ladies who are waiting for reconstruction, I'm glad I don't have to face any more surgery. Discomfort from the ANC op lives on, I'm wondering if it will ever stop. Anybody else finding the same thing?  I think my hair is growing about a mm a month, despite that I seem to have dark roots so they need attention.

Any ladies, I hope you're all enjoying yourselves and have a good weekend to look forward to. Weather looks like it will be warm and wet so not much improvement.

Take care everyone. XX

[Karen2609]

Hi Ladies, hope everyone is doing well. Had my plastic surgeon appointment today and I'm finally on the waiting list for diep recon ....yay!!! Didn't expect to be at the hospital so long, got there for 9am appointment and left at 2pm but at least got most of the tests done now just a scan of my abdomen to be done. The waiting list is about 18 months but the nurse made a note that I can come in at short notice so fingers crossed for a cancellation.
Congrats Cath and Flossie on your sons' A and AS levels you must be very proud. We are getting my daughter's GCSE results tomorrow so hoping she gets the grades she needs to stay on where she is.
Can't remember who mentioned feeling old but I agree, feel really stiff in the mornings, I'm ok once I've walked about a bit but definitely takes me longer to get going. Still waiting for mammogram results, I certainly hope they would have told me by now if there was a problem.
Just going to make a cup of tea in time to watch GBBO, just need some cake to go with it😊🍰

[sugar8]

Hi Julie and Flossie. Good to hear from you again. 

Julie, Hope your weight loss keep fit plans goes well and you get to top form ASAP. It's so good to share as I also do the stiff  slow walk in the mornings before I really get going but a warm shower works  a million. 

Flossie... no need to apologise. Old cliche  life goes on is the norm. Your holiday sounds so much fun. Would love to go to Hawaii but my hubby is not as keen on travelling as I am. He'd rather spend time DIYing. 

Had a moment over weekend when I felt that my dreams were drifting by but you know what, I realise that I have to take the bull by the horns and find a travel companion if I want to see the places on my wish list.  Maybe after my reconstruction I will feel more independant. I did some travelling earlier on in the year so I shouldn't complain.

Great news about your mammogram and your son's AS results. Like you I have my last onco appt in Sept. Apparently to see what SEs are left after the herceptin.

Cath Congrats on your son's A level results and Good luck with your keep fit plans. I am sitting waiting for my GP to call me to discuss my need for a Dexa scan. My surgery has a very strange appointment system 

love to all

Clare

[CathC]

Hi Julie,

I had a lovely time at the Christening, thanks for asking.

Hoping everything goes well with the valuer today.

Like you, I hit the big 50 early next year and need to get a lot fitter. It's funny how quickly the weight goes on, but then is a bugger to shift. Ghrrr!

And yes, weekends are definitely diet and exercise free. *wink*

Hi Flossie,

Your holiday in Hawaii sounds amazing! I'm not surprised you were sad to leave.

Congrats to your son on his AS levels. My son got his A level results and passed all 3 - even the one he was struggling with. He's decided to do a foundation course first, which gives him another year at home before heading off to college.

Great news on your mammogram results and good luck with your onc appointment in September.

Hugs to all the July ladies

Cath

[Candyflossie]

Hi Ladies,

I see this thread is going strong still and so are you.

I feel a little guilty for not logging in often enough, but I have been getting back to normality, as I am sure a lot of you did too.

Finally went on our Hawaii holiday last month and it has been an absolute blast. We've been very active there: diving, hiking, helicopter ride, parasailing, snorkelling and swimming every day. We were all very tearful to leave Paradise Island and come back to reality. I felt so blessed for the opportunity, hubby and I adore travelling and the day we were back have started planning our next trip 

Back to England and AS levels results for our son: all A's in 4 subjects (Maths, Law, ICT and Economics), very proud parents and happy boy, he can now apply to some of the best universities.

My mammogram results were normal luckily. I believe I am due to see the oncologist in September for routine check-up, not sure what to expect. I live with the hope of no reoccurence as I could not bear the chemo again.

Lots of hugs to all,

Flossie xxx

[JuSt]

Hi Cath,

Sorry about the 'C' word! Better than the other 'C' word though eh?  Let's just try not to think about either of them 🙂  Hope you have a lovely day at your family christening, could just fancy something similar myself.  However, probs just trying to tidy and iron all day as valuer is out Tuesday morning to value the house for a remortgage - at least the sun is shining, so I'm sure I'll manage to skive off a bit to 'tidy up' outside in the garden!

I'm with you & Clare on the feeling older.  Get out of bed in the morning and can barely walk at first attempt! Still, my hubby feels the same and he's not had chemo so maybe it's just the fact that I've reached the big 5-0 now?  I've also decided I really need to get fitter and eat healthier again too (weight creeping up and feel pretty unfit) so will try to put plans into action from tomorrow - you can't start at the weekend, right? 

Hope the sun is shining for everyone!

Julie

x

[CathC]

Clare - I definitely think chemo has made me feel older - or maybe that should be mortal.

And I don't even have the added 'excuse' of being on Letrozole. lol

Hi Julie,

A weekend in Harrogate sounds fun, but please, please, please don't mention the C word. I'm doing my best to try and ignore it.

Today we have a family christening to go to - I love family outings. We don't get together nearly enough. And for once, the sun is shinning. Whoo-hoo!

Hope all the July ladies are bathed in sunshine and enjoying the weekend.

Hugs

Cath