'June Jewels' - Precious and shining through :)

[Guest user]

Hello Jewels, no one at the bar today then.
I have had another great day with no side effects and plenty of energy. Had a little ride out on my mare this morning, bit of gardening followed by a nap. Just done a lovely supper for the current husband and the ex husband, both of whom commented that I had eaten more than both of them ! I am making up for days 1 to 7 when I eat absolutely nothing. Just as well that they did not see me scoff the left overs as well !!
My eyebrows and eye lashes are dropping out now but my legs are growing, that is not fair.
Good luck for those at it tomorrow.
Ann the windy bald eagle. xx

[PeachyPal]

Jayney - I'm seeing mine on Friday before my 2nd cycle. My appointment is to review cycle 1, SEs, do meds need adjusting. As far as I am aware its a 'how you doing' chat. Don't worry about it too much, although the few glasses of wine sound lovely x

Hope all goes well tomorrow - and to you Lins and Becky. Fresh cocktails being first bar of the month. Could you give the Tequila Sunrise a taste for me! Dont choke on the nuts!

I've booked my LGFB workshop, but they are fully booked til September. Well they have a space in August but it was the day after a chemo session and not sure I would want to be sat there the day after, spaced out.
http://www.lookgoodfeelbetter.co.uk/site/workshops.cfm gives a list of all the places they are held - Vicki - could you not go to a neighbouring centre?

Well I am very proud of my mum who is in training. She is doing a 23 mile, 2 day trek along the Cotswold way for Breakthrough for Breast Cancer in August. 12 miles on day 1, 11 miles on day 2. She is up to 10 miles in her training so just a little bit more. 4 of the girls at work are also doing race for life next weekend in support too. Think I may have to do something next year.

Hope everyone has a lovely evening, and those suffering with sleep, fingers crossed you can drop off tonight. Hot milk or hot chocolate, I'm a little bit adicted to the Options hot chocs at the moment.

Night all, love Emma xxxx

[jayney234]

Hi Jewels Had a really good last couple of days getting hay in. First time ever growing and producing own hay and really frustrated that I couldn't help with the lifting etc. Then came down to earth with a bump. Onc appointment tommorrow before my 2nd Fec chemo. I am ok about the chemo but absolutely terrified about seeing Onc as convinced she is going to give me bad news. Can't settle and had to have a couple of glasses of wine to calmn me down. I am having chemo before surgery so hope it is just to examine the lump but I know if I see my BC nurse there it is bound to be bad news. Does anyone else know what these Onc apopointments are likely to be for? Jayney xx

[artemis17]

Evening all

So lovely to hear from you Martha, its like we're all back together now, even though we dont always post or dont all know each other, i think we are a good close knit band and to have such great emotional support when going through this is just amazing. I thank you all for making this journey so much more bearable, and im loving all the things we learn on the way.

I seem to be mostly ok, went for a long walk after work as im missing zumba this week but did feel a twinge in my hips, proably the bone marrow jabs, 3 more to go though!. Mind you, mentally i seem fine at work but when i come home my mind stays at the door and i do feel random at times. Guessing thats whats known as "Chemo brain"....

Im "well jel" (apparently proper english??) of those doing the LGFB workshops and also the headstrong as theres nothing like that near me. You will recognize me at the meet up next year as i will be the one with a scarve plonked on her head, no finesse or glamour and really bad bright blue eye makeup lol...so desperately in need of a proper make-up lesson, though i cant really use cancer as an excuse!!!

Hope everyones doing ok and are quietly chilling. Cant remember whos at the bar tomorrow and cant go back a page but i hear its been re-stocked, apparently the barmans even supplying some nuts to nibble on 😉

Stay happy and strong Jewels, we are pretty damn awesome!!.
xxxx

[MarthasSOS]

Good evening my precious Jewels

Chelle - Can't wait till you pop round, I'm bloody freezing lol. Make sure you've got plenty of cotton wool because I'm getting big with all those steriods 😉 Hahaha, glad the long sleeve trick did it for you today lol I also take my anti-bacterial wash stuff for the trolley handle. I get some weird looks but I don't really care 😉

Fiona - I'm so glad to be back and trust me, I ain't going anywhere for a long time lol

Oh Trish, that curry sounds lush. I'm going to make it at the weekend 😉

Marion, I'm loving the new profile pic. That headscarf is very you xx

Penny sweetie - The website plays tricks on us lol

Debs, I wouldn't be able to face the M25 any day of the week, never mind when on chemo. Oh I'm so jelous (love Olly) xx

Vicki - I've put on my bubble wrap again!!

Thanks Emma (Peachy), it's good to be back. I've just had a look on the Deresina website. I can see myself making a few purchase tee hee hee!

Emma (Melrose), I am so glad you are feeling a bit better. I love honey (yum yum) xx I'll send you my knicker net by registered post - I have no need for it now lol. I have washed it haha

Cress, I love your new pic, it's so.....YOU lol. I hope you are feeling better sweetie and enjoying the tennis xx

Sandra sorry to hear you're having sleeping issues. I think I must be some kind of mutant because even when I'm on steriods, I sleep like a log at night and can even push out a couple of hours during the day also lol Re the hair coming out, mine didn't start until cycle 2 but the hair your talking about started around day 14 of cycle 1. I did also pluck my eyebrows which was a pain free event, they practically fell out too. My OH blew about 6 eye lashes from my cheek the other day, so it looks like my bottom eye lashes are on their way out 😞

Jan, that's really good news that your tumor has shrunk. I'm sure the surgeon will find it when the time comes. We call get depressed sometimes - I had my final stumpy hair shed today and had another good cry - But hey, we are all hear to listen to you as we are all going through the same feelings. Keep your chin up sweetie xxx

Marie it is soooooo good to be back. OH put me on a techy ban so I was well pi**ed off lol. But I'm back now 😉

Faye, I was just scoouting for a potential souter for Cress - There are some very handsome docs in my hospital lol Good luck with the wig cutting xx

Jackie glad to hear that the lactose is doing it's thing for you. I hope your ED is ok xx

pat, I've been on the LGFB course and it's amazing. I'm just wondering if I can go back on it towards the end of my chemo lol Perhpas they won't recognise me haha

Well OH has managed to stream the next series of True Blood so I'm off to watch some telly. Have a relaxing evening Jewels xx

[Guest user]

Chelle, thank you will have a look
Trish, curry fab thank you
Pat, I am off to a LGFB workshop tomorrow, will report back.
Debs x

[pat_1949]

Hi everyone, have been to a LGFB workshop today, brilliant, if you haven't been yet make an appointment soon as you can, I saw approx 12 women go in (inc. myself) and the same number of attractive ladies come out. It is such an uplifting experience and really makes you feel good, you are given a wonderful gift when you arrive then they show you how to make the best of yourself with the products. I met ethel1 (Elizabeth) there, it was lovely to meet you Elizabeth especially putting a face to the name. Thank you to the girls who have put recipes on here, would you mind if I copy them and send them to Debbie,(she ran the session) she is getting a book together with recipes and other things inside and eventually will sell to raise funds for the LGFB charity.
Seem to be on a good stretch at the moment, just have a slightly sore mouth and a small amount of acid (fingers crossed).
Hope everyone else is coping well, too many now to mention.
Good luck to the next drinkers at the bar.
Xxx

[YB54321]

Debs - I bought 1 wig from a salon in Manchester, another long one I can tie back in a pony tail with streaks off eBay (about £20) and 1 from wigsnew.co.uk. It arrived today and its every bit as good as the one I bought instore and only cost £50. If you sign up for newsletter you get £5 discount. They come from china but arrived in less than a week and I really like it. The one off eBay isn't great quality and won't last as long as the others but tied back it looks nice. Hope this helps x

[Guest user]

Looking forward to Trish's curry tonight!

Managed to work from home today but absolutely worn out now, must be the concentration! i've lost the Robbie tickets for Friday and chemo brain has absolutely no idea where they might be............
Mouth is yuk today but bone aching seems to be wearing off, in fact apart from tired not to bad at all, even horrid indigestion seems to be waning. Not sure if anyone saw my post on Sunday before it disappeared but magnesium trisilicate (liquid) has been a life saver for heartburn and windy chest pains, just a couple of spoonfuls undiluted stops it immediately!

Chelle think you will need to be chief bulk booking negotiator for York!

Sandra the whole ingrowing hair thing made me giggle, i so know where you are coming from with the satisfaction!

Jan sorry about your rubbish day, unfortunately we are on such a roller coaster and just when you think youve cracked it BAM! something else gets you down. i keep trying to tell myself its not for long but I know it doesnt always help!

Flipflop (sorry cant remember real name and cant scroll back! doh) Treadmill done but only a very light walking programme for 30 mins, dont do running under normal circumstances so defo not doing it now! just really want to try and build up some sort of fitness level , however small before next poisoning session.
All you ladies with 'hair issues' are coping really well! I know that will be my next big stress and i just wish someone could tell me that next tuesday i will get up but my hair won't! at least i could mentally prepare!
I bought two wigs from a fab place in Sandhurst but am thinking of maybe getting another cheaper one online, can any of you let me know where you got yours from please?
Also at this moment in time, I just want to get on with my next cycle and start ticking them off and getting them out of the way.
Right off for a snooze now as this whole 'working' lark is sooooooo tiring!

Hugs
Debs x

[Guest user]

Ps stupid ipad autocorrect- I'm growing toe moustaches out of NOWHERE not from snow here...?...!

[Guest user]

Shan't risk a big long post in case it disappears again.
Maxie-Sandra your post about in growing hair made me laugh. I am waiting for hair loss but nothing yet, seem to have grown enormous toe moustaches from snow here- what's that all about?
So today I made it to GP to get prescription for oral thrush (nice) and to pharmacist for lactulose, which has done more than the trick and Have not been able to be far from toilet this afternoon... Still good to be moving again!
Have to say the curry recipes look delicious but I have a sudden and urgent craving for proper fish and chips with tomato ketchup and lots of vinegar- might even be able to taste that.
Jan, sorry you are feeling down. I had a mini meltdown this morning (first day no steroids) when I realised that my 3rd cycle will be on our 15th wedding anniversary, and we had planned to take a weekend somewhere for our first proper honeymoon (our first was canceled because my OH's mum was dying of secondary cancer). I know we will do it someday but it feels like cancer has its grubby fingers in too many parts of life. hope you feel better soon.
Martha - so glad you are back xx
must dash - ED has come in in tears because she has 'done badly' in her year 8 exam in maths...bless her, I am guessing this just means not top of the class, so will need to apply some TLC to calm her down, poor thing already has the weight of the teenage world on her shoulders, as well as a mum with stupid cancer. Maybe fish and chips will cheer her up too.
Jackie x

[Maxie]

Yum yum, all theses lovely recipes!!...Got my SIL staying with me from Weds as my snoring OH (her brother!) is away with work...she's a brill cook so may give them all a try !!!

Jan sorry you're feeling down today....we've all been there....xx

Chelle well done you for getting new phone!!!...def chief negotiator, know what you mean being lost without one too so yay!!..xx

Cress am having lazy day today too, did a bit of housework & have managed a nap after lunch, so feel a bit less like a serial killer now!!!....(OH will be so relieved!)


Faye, yes you're right about the bandanas, only just realised that they'll clash too, oh well ok for around house etc if nothing else!..xx

Vicki well done for getting yourself into work!....my work was getting OH to his train this morn, dont think my brain could manage much more at mo!..xx

Now onto nonsense, ( you know I like this subject!)....I havent had any hair loss as yet BUT Ive had great fun today & yesterday locating any little ingrowing hairs....you know the little stubborn b*****s that wont shift after wax/ shave...well normally Im there for ages with tweezers poised but no, now they come out virtually on heir own!!!...sooooo satisfying (or is it just me??) I got a massively long one from my ahem 'top leg' yesterday just by one gentle squeeze, the hair that had been trapped was over 2 inches long....amazing!!....well a girl has to have hobbies!!!...



Catch you later Jewels xxx

[Guest user]

Cycle 2 Day 5
Keeping up with you lot is a full time job! Brain only just cleared from second cycle. No sickness this time thanks to the lovely Emend but not being able to read or watch TV or listen to the radio is awful. Really swimmy head this time and same sleep problems as everyone else. Still, feeling better today so can't really complain.
Becky Joan - if you were at Corfe Castle at the weekend did you go to the falconery display? If you did, we might have passed... Great weekend for camping
Aretemis - I'm only 10 miles from Corfe.
Meggie moo - my daughter (who is 9) is called Agnes!
Fiona - hope you're feeling better about the hair. Mine was so itchy and painful as it fell out that it was a relief to get rid of it. Can I recommend the very lovely people at suburban turban who send out scarves in double quick time.
Mother about to turn up - she's planning to stay for 10 days 😞 I feel a relapse coming on...

[artemis17]

Hi all,
OOh i think my work have done something to stop me being able to scroll back lol, when i sign in i can only reply from the first page so apologies for things i miss.

As said still at work so a sneaky catch up, mind you they are all impressed im making it in to the office so think i can risk personal emails lol...

faye, hope youre more happy with the wig style, i havent taken mine out of the bag i got it in, although not sure ive faith in the CC now so maybe i should unpack it.

Chelle, youre a minx, but well done re phone, definataly chief negotiator as well as administrator ;-). Re the WBC jabs, although im having them, i didnt get any steriods so i guess theres no logic to our individual regimes, have to say though i will ask about the steriods, although obviously havent needed them..

marion thanks for the recipe, another one for the boy to attempt. hope youre doing ok and had a nice time with your visitors. I find i havent got as much tolerance for being sociable just now, maybe im too used to my own company...

Jan, sorry youre havinga rubbish day, its ok to feel down, and like you i question when will my life be back to normal, no more waiting for side effetcs, bad sleeping (cos of expander or picc line), i want to go to my fitness classes but cant just now...holiday, clothes, hair etc so many areas of life is in the grip of cacner related issues, but its not forever and we will all rise again, we have to believe in that and just see the here and now as a different kind of normal...I bet we never realised we were such strong women...

Sandra(still want to say maxie) try to sleep when you can, nothing sucks like being awake in the wee small hours, everyone and thing is so much more annoying but hope you find a way through it.

Well i have a few things to finish off before i can excuse myself home, why do people never refill the printer especially after running 200 copies off..grr

Okey doke, off i fly...
xx

[Flip_flop]

Jan - it's ok to have bad days. Chin up, Big hugs x

[Flip_flop]

Morning.
Chelle - you sneaky bu#'ger getting a new I phone for that price. Think I will send you to do the negotiating when I book my next holiday.
Marion and Trish - thanks for the recipes. Might need to stock up on the ingredients (my cupboards are are more filled with tinned stuff), but they sound delicious.
Maxie - (can't get used to Sandra) - I can't sleep either. I don't know why I don't get up and do some ironing or somthing instead of laying there getting annoyed. OH is in the spare room at the mo - keep thinking i'll let him back in, but then I don't
Cress - enjoy your day on the sofa watching the tennis. I'm trying to get into it but can't get my head around the scoring.
Emma (melrose). Know what you mean about knickergate. Mine seems to be going, but not sure when and where they have gone. Am a bit paroniod that I will find a trail somewhere
Emma - (peachy) Trying to have a washing day also. One put 1 load on so far though.
Vicki - don't overdo it at work.
Debs going on a tredmill??????
Fiona - hope you are getting used to your hair cut
Martha - yeayyyyyyy you are out. I told you last time your were not allowed to go AWOL again. No more lady.
Well my friend is coming oveer to cut my wig again, so hoping to try wearing it later this week. The only thing with funky coloured and patterned bandannas is they clash with all my clothes.
Check in later
Faye

[YB54321]

Afternoon twinklys

I HAVE A PHONE AGAIN .......WHOO HOO!

Went into Apple after I'd been to docs for next sick note and was told it should be £175 for a recon 32gb iPhone 5 but after a bit of a pity story from me she gave me a brand new one for the same price so better than the £599 they charge for them normally! Oh it feels so good to have a phone again (how sad am I!)

Been signed off til 1st Sept and occupational health have said they really don't want me to work until chemo is finished but we'll see! Then went to Sainsburys with sleeves covering hands and anti wipes to clean the trolley handle! And bought the ingredients for Trish's curry. Parents coming to stay tomorrow in prep for cycle 2 so bit of house cleaning today (to get rid of my shedding hair off the floor.

Marion - your recipe sounds lush as well. That will be my treat if bowel gate appears again x

Jan - sorry you're having a down day, it's tough to stay positive when you're not sleeping well and in pain. I was having palpitations the other night and my heart was racing but I was the same and had bad indigestion so took a lansoprozole and its calmed down. It's a tough road but the poison is doing its magic x

Sandra - just sleep when you can its better than not at all. I moved into our spare bed a few times because I found it easier to get comfy with more space (and nobody snoring!) I'm not having the WBC injections - not sure why!

Cress - have an easy day, I've read that Taxotere is tough on the bones. enjoy the tennis xx

Emma - rushing a flower net prototype into production x

hope the other Jewels are fairing ok xx

[Marionblue]

DHAL WITH SPINACH

8 OZ (225G) GREEN LENTILS, SOAKED OVERNIGHT OR FOR 8 HOURS
A PINCH OF TURMERIC
1 LARGE ONION, CHOPPED
1 BAY LEAF
2 INCH PIECE OF ROOT GINGER
1 TABLESPOON (15ML SPOON) CHOPPED PARSLEY
1 FRESH GREEN CHILL, CHOPPED
4 TABLESPOONS ( 4 X 15 ML SPOONS) OLIVE OIL
3 LARGE CLOVES GARLIC, CRUSHED
1/2 TEASPOON (2.5 ML SPOON) CUMIN SEEDS, CRUSHED
1/4 TEASPOON (1.25 ML SPOON) MUSTARD SEEDS, CRUSHED
1 OR 2 DRIED CHILLIES (OPTIONAL)
8 OZ (226G) CAN OF TOMATOES, DRAINED AND CHOPPED
SALT TO TASTE

(I SOMETIMES USE DRIED SPICES IF I'VE FORGOTTEN THE FRESH, WORKS QUITE WELL)

PUT THE LENTILS, TURMERIC, ONION, BAY LEAF, GINGER, PARSLEY, FRESH CHILLE AND 1 TABLESPOON (15 ML SPOON) OIL IN A PAN WITH ENOUGH WATER TO COVER. BRING TO THE BOIL AND SIMMER, COVERED, OVER A GENTLE HEAT FOR ABOUT 45 MINUTES UNTIL THE LENTILS ARE COOKED. ADD SALT TO TASTE AFTER 40 MINUTES. DON'T ADD AT THE START OF COOKING AS IT MAKES LENTILS HARD ON THE OUTSIDE. ADD A LITTLE EXTRA WATER IF LENTILS START TO STICK.
WARM THE REMAINING OIL AND COOK THE CRUSHED GARLIC IN IT UNTIL SLIGHTLY BROWNED. ADD THE SPICES AND COOK A FURTHER FEW MINUTES. STIR IN THE CHOPPED TOMATOES, HEAT THROUGH ADD SALT IF REQUIRED AND STIR IN THE COOKED LENTILS. HEAT THROUGH AND BUBBLE OVER A GENTLE HEAT FOR 5 - 10 MINUTES. STIR IN SPINACH AS REQUIRED AND WILT DOWN.
CAN USE SLICED COURGETTES, MUSHROMMS, CAULIFLOWER, PEAS OR GREEN BEANS CAN BE USED IN STEAD OF SPINACH.
GREAT SERVED WITH CRUST WHOLEMEAL BREAD

MARION
XXX

[Marionblue]

VEGETABLE CURRY

1 TBSP OLIVE OIL
1 ONION, PEELED AND CHOPPED
1 BUTTERNUT SQUASH, PEELED, DESEEDED AND CHOPPED
2 TBSP MEDIUM CURRY PASTE (E.G. PATAKS TIKKA MASALA) (USE HOT IF PREFFERED)
568 ML (1 PINT) VEGETABLE STOCK
200G TIN OF PLUM TOMATOES, DRAINED AND SLICED
100G RED LENTILS, RINSED

1. HEAT OLIVE OIL IN A LARGE PAN AND COOK THE ONION FOR 5 MINUTES, UNTIL SOFTENED.
2. ADD THE BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND TOSS WITH THE ONION.
3. STIR IN THE CURRY PASTE
4. ADD VEGETABLE STOCK AND TOMATOES
5. ADD THE LENTILS AND BRING TO THE BOIL
6. COVER AND SIMMER FOR 25 MINUTES.
7. SPRINKLE WITH CHOPPED FRESH CORIANDER

SERVES 3
ONLY 240 CALORIES PER SERVING OF THE ABOVE
SERVE WITH BOILED RICE, WHOLEMEAL CHAPATIS OR CRUSTY BREAD.

Great for getting things moving

Marion
xxx

[nanniereeree]

yahooo Martha's in the house again really missed you:-)
Marie

[ambercatz]

Morning Jewels.
FEC-T day 11
Another thanks to Trish for the recipe-definately will give that a go when I feel more like cooking.
Had a horrible night, had pains in my legs and what I think was probably trapped wind that gave me an uncomfortable tight band all round my chest and back-it felt like my heart was beating out of my body and was really scary, I would have panicked I was having a heart attack if it wasn't for the fact that it eased when I burped! Feeling a bit better this morning but still have achey legs and getting peed off now-feeling I can't do 8 cycles of this but hoping this week 2 low will pass soon.
I am having chemo before surgery and my tumour seems to have shrunk considerably already. They didn't put a marker in so am worried they won't find it (unless it's sort of wandered off somewhere). Am getting stabbing pains where it was so am hoping the pains are a good sign.
Can't think of anything I feel like eating either.Finding it hard to be positive today so will go before I depress you all
I too think all of you who are still working are amazing, take it steady though and keep your strength up
Jan x

[Maxie]

Great to see your posts again Martha!!:-)....xx

Well day 7 for me & still can't sleep!!!....its really driving me nuts now, am just napping for half hour periods during the night. Didnt help last night that OH snored ALL night then woke up this morn & said HE was tired!!!....ggrrrr!!!...think he could sense his life was in danger this morning because he scuttled off to work sharpish!!

Ate a heavy meal last night too which made me uncomfortable but was tasty so had to finish it! (eyes bigger than belly!)

Apart from the sleep issues, bit of sore mouth nothing else to really complain about. Dont seem to be having any ill effects from the WBC jabs either which is good as Ive heard some unpleasant s/e's. Hows everyone else doing on them? Does everyone get them?

Have a good day Jewels xxx

[Suffolklady]

Morning all, thank you for lovely curry recipe - when I get my mouth back I'm definitely going to try it!
Well, the Taxotere train has hit - day 5 and I just don't feel like getting out of bed. Every bone aches and I feel sort of, light headed. My mouth is tingling as if it has been stung and I have a lump in my throat when I swallow.
Having said all of that, none of it is unbearable and can't be sorted by staying put for the day. The tennis is on later so my aim is to be downstairs on the sofa by then!
Hope all of you have a great day - those of you who are working are AMAZING! I can hardly think at the moment! Take care super jewels. XXX

[Melrose15]

knicker net or cricket box needed urgently in Herts/London borders!

[PeachyPal]

Thanks Emma (ref honey) - Deresina website has a much larger selection than ebay. I've ordered 3 of the scarfs.

[Melrose15]

How very dare they?! Two of my posts have disappeared and with chemo brain cannot remember what I wrote. (lucky you!!)
Thanks for the recipe Trish. Marion can we have yours please?
Martha Yay! Welcome home x
Em in case you didn't see my phantom post ... I have a teaspoon of honey and just suck it off the spoon! I've ordered some of thepicc covers from ebay so looking forward to getting them. Whilst I was on there I ordered another hat from Deresina, just had to be done!!
Day 15 and feeling so much better. More energy, mouth recovering well and bowels behaving. Only niggle is my sore, drippy nose.
Have a good day lovely Jewels. The bars shut for a restock and the sun is out again down south; that makes the world seem a happier place 🙂

[PeachyPal]

Welcome home Martha, we have missed you, make sure you take it easy.

Thanks for the recipe Trish - I can see all of us cooking this at some time this week!

Plan to start the day with a load of washing, followed by another load of washing and.......one more load. Whole lots getting done today, bedding, towels and the wash basket. Best get started.

Take it easy today Jewells, we seem to have a bar free day today.....we're drying out due to the large amount of cocktails already taken!!

xx

[artemis17]

Yaaay Martha youre back....:-) make sure you live in a bubble for the next few weeks, we miss your strength and positivity!!.

Just a quick note as on phone and not got my contract lens in...

Ann think like you I may take the lactulose pre chemo next cycle as it's been awful beingbunged up I was awake at 4am in agony but fingers crossed all back on track.

Thanks for the recipe Trish my son will be delighted to be able to do something other thsn spag bol...

Well very tired maybe the loo gate or maybe the bone jabs but have to go into work although working from home the rest of the week so at least I can get away with wearing my slippers ha ha.

Ok well off to shower with my limbo, great for the picc line. Will catch up properly later ladies. ..
Xxxx

[Guest user]

TC x4 cycle 1 day 7
Morning Jewels
Welcome back Martha, so glad you are on the mend.
Cant face an hours drive round the M25 this week so am going to get up, do 30 mins walking on the treadmill (gently) and work from home (although the sun is shining again so may get waylaid) every day.
Only a four day week as have Robbie and Olly to look forward to on Friday!
Trish, curry recipe looks fab so will be trying that later. Not sure what is going on with this forum at the mo and the case of the disappearing posts.
Good luck to all at the bar and have a good day all.
Love Debs xx

[Penny47]

I don't think you guys are imagining it- my subscription notification shows that several of you including Martha posted between 7:30 and 10:30 last night but I don't see quite a few of the posts!

[Marionblue]

Martha, you're back, all this lazing around won't do you know 🙂 . hope you're feeling OK now.
I have visitors staying on their way back to Scotland. I've left them downstairs with OH and a bottle of wine and am tucked up in bed. Really boring being the only sober one but think my liver has enough to cope with at the moment.

Have a good night lovely jewels.

Marion
Xxx

[YB54321]

Thanks Trish going to try that tomorrow x

nighty night jewels x

[Guest user]

Hey Matha, welcome back do you like curry?!
I tried to html but failedmiserably so here it is.....

EASY PEASY LOW FAT CHICKEN CURRY
Serves 4
1tbsp sunflower oil
3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 5cm (2in) chunks or 8 large boneless skinless chicken thighs halved.
Juice 1 lemon
½ tsp chilli flakes (more if you like it hot!)
1 large garlic glove crushed
1 onion finely chopped
3 tsp turmeric
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground cumin
2 bay leaves
2 tbsp unsweetened desiccated coconut
55g orange lentils
600ml (1 pint) chicken stock
5 tablespoons natural yoghurt (more if you like it really creamy)
100g (3½ oz) fresh spinach leaves washed (I use a whole bag!)

Toss chicken in half the oil, lemon juice and garlic and season with black pepper.
Heat the remaining oil in a non-stick pan. Add the onion, cover and cook very gently for 10 mins until softened. Add the turmeric, coriander, cumin, bay leaves and coconut and cook for 1 minute.
Add the lentils and toss in the spice mix.
Pour in the stock, bring up to the boil and simmer for 10 mins. Add the chicken and reduce the heat and simmer very gently for approx. 15 mins or until cooked.
Stir in the spinach and yoghurt and gently heat through for 1 minute, season to taste.
I just have this with nan bread as I’m not big on rice, but any accompanying dish is good.

Enjoy xxx

[Glasgow_Girl]

Martha, thank goodness you're back, we've missed you. You've had such a terrible time. The Jewels are not the same without you. Sleep well back at home and we'll hear again from you soon.

Night-night everyone (I'm so desperate for some sleep, hope it will be tonight)

Fiona
xx

[YB54321]

Oh Martha - so good to hear from you. Am coming round with a huge bag of cotton wool to wrap you in. The JJ's aren't the same without you. Big hugs x

[MarthasSOS]

Ladies....Good Evening

Thank you for all the wonderful text messages. TaylorJ my mum said is was lovely speaking with you xx

Maxie - You're a star and I'm so glad that you didn't run during your 1st trip to the bar.

Welcome to all the new Jewels, I'm sure I will catch up with you all very, very soon.

Emma - I hope you are feeling much better and Mrs Angry has gone for a few days lol

As a little update peeps, my stomach started to bleed from one of my injection sites and wouldn't stop so they admitted me to hospital until the blood stopped flowing. Then I did my back in so they decided to keep me in for a few more days until that stopped. They tested my blood and my gloucose was at a lovel of 25 (which they thought was very strange). They did a fasting blood test and it came back normal. I forgot to mention I had eaten about half a box of malteesers an hour before they did the blood tests (hence the high glucose lol). Silly me, chemo brain forgot haha.

OH wouldn't bring me any tech into hospital as he thought I'd use it as an excuse to get some work done (yeah right, as if I would lol) and that is why I haven't been able to update anyone. I've packed my dongle into my hospital bag so next time I just need to grab the laptop on the way out the door lol.

I hope everyone is doing ok - There are loads of posts which I really need to catch up on. Good luck to everyone going through chemo tomorrow (not checked the list yet).

I'll have a good ready tomorrow and make sure I've up to speed with everyone.

Love & Hugs xxxxx

[Maxie]

Oh well, most of my post was the usual waffle anyway!.... Only important bit really was that Id spoken to our Martha today & she's out of hosp & all ok.:-)

Fiona, well done on hair front, we all (apart from some CC users) know whats coming but am sure its still traumatic & upsetting when it does happen. I still cant quite imagine what its going to be like but am really liking the thought that its the old hair going & in with the new hair when all the c**p is over!!

Not posting anymore in case it disappears again!!!....why is it always the long posts that disappear?? !!

Sandra xx

[Guest user]

Ok now both of my posts have disappeared!

[Guest user]

Maxie, thought I was going bonkers!! My last post has disappeared into the ether????

[Maxie]

Mmm strange things happening on the forum tonight....my previous posts now disappeared along with some other peeps posts which Id read (unless you can all still see them??) Ive noticed others saying same....gremlins!!!

[Glasgow_Girl]

Evening all
FEC cycle 2, day 4

My hair is gone, shaved to a number one, OH did it this afternoon ( he has a million Brownie points). Thanks for all the advice and encouragement, as you all said the anticipation was worse than the event itself. Feels better and liberating. The catalyst was yesterday, I could tell son distresed with the balding, patchy look and said for the first time I actually looked ill.
Head cold to start with. Wearing scarf round the house, but finding it hot. Wil take bit of getting used to.

Also watched Stones on ipad today, only got half the set though, but it was fab.

Sooo tired, barely sleeping, really washed out today.Nausea still hanging around but not as bad as last time now I've had Emend.

Emma (peachy) - hair started to shed about day 14 of first cycle, a little for a few days then accellerated really fast coming out in clumps. I did cold cap, but didn't work for me.

Gus - sorry you've been unwell, hope you get some rest.

Trish - would like the curry recipe plese.

Ann - so pleased you having better time this cycle. I'm a fan of Emend too.

Maxie - glad all well on the bathroom front. Thanks for update on Martha.

Debs - after rough time, glad you feeling better.

Watching "Shakespeare in Love" with daughter. We'll catch up with the Buble on the itvplayer later and have a drool over him, what a beautiful man he is. Appeals to me (49) and daughter (19).

Have lovely evening everyone,

Fiona
xx

[YB54321]

looks like my last post vanished!

Trish - sound like you're going through the wars! Be sure to ring the chemo unit if it continues as you need to keep an eye on infection. The curry sounds lovely - could you post the recipe (if its not too difficult) x

Vicki - glad bowel gate seems to be under control. I'm dreading it happening again!

Anne - so glad cycle 2 is being kinder to you. I've got used to my wig now but hoping my new one is a bit more me. Everyone who has seen me in it has said you'd never know its a wig but I think we'll always be our own worst critics!

Never got to Apple as my friend called so we were gossiping for too long. Prob better going tomorrow anyway as there will be less of the unwashed there!

So hoping Martha gets on her feet soon, she's not had an easy ride so far x

Emma (Melrose) - the all bran golden crunch is lovely but they also do chocolate crunch as well and that is really nice. Better when no sore mouth though as it is crunchy x

hmm what to have for tea???? Ooh and I do like a bit of Buble x

[Guest user]

Hello wonderful Jewels.

FEC x 6 cycle 2 day 10.
Feeling great today, loads of energy and apart from my bald head no one would know there is anything wrong, long may it last. i feel like doing all sorts of things but being in the no immune phase I suppose it would not be wise to go out in the big wide world.

Artemis - lactolose worked for me but doctor said to up the dose to 30ml daily and keep taking it regularly. The constipation is by far the worst side effect I have had on cycle 2. No sickness at all on Emend and Cylinex back up pills. On the next cycle I am going to get plenty of lactolose inside me well before the chemo date. I still have a lump on my forehead from fainting in the bathroom caused by constipation.

I do not like this bald head business, I am either hot or cold. No confidence to go anywhere but to my horses. I really admire those of you who are out and about.
Thinking of those at the bar tomorrow, good luck and may the side effects be controlled - EMEND is what you want.
Ann the bald windy eagle xx

[artemis17]

Alrighty jewels,

Hope the day has progessed well for you all. Thanks for the advice/commenst re *constipation*..took myself down to Boots, parted with £7 for an industrial sized bottle of lactulose and i think-think- its having an effect, mind you with the prunes, dates and all bran ive consumed its a good job im home alone!. So Sandra give it a whirl, the senocot didnt help.

Faye, i have my u/s on the good side tuesday, im sure its just hormonal but best to be sure i guess, it was fine on the initial mammogram anyway. Did the sun come out for you?.

Fiona, re the sun, after my query, ive sat out this pm for an hour with no adverse reaction so i guess again its different for us all. Not planning on doing more than that, just nice to feel the sun on my skin.

Chelle hope youve got the phone sorted, did the sympathy vote work??.

Had my 1st bone marrow jab, so hopefully it wont cause any side effects, in the office tomorrow then for my low week ill be working from home, then a week leave yaaay so hoping to get a few days away.

All in all have to say the side effects havent been anywhere near what i was expecting, the emend did its job and havent had any anti-vom tabs since friday, so im guessing thats why i didnt get/need steroids??.

So off to potter a bit and decide what i want to eat...definately not lost my appetite, apart from not wanting any ginger!!.

Take care

xxx

[Guest user]

Hi Twinklies
Well I got some Canestan Oasis from Sainsburys yesterday for my cystitis, pharmacist said I need to see doc if on chemo as I may have an infection, which I know, so maybe another visit to docs tomorrow. I had to see him on Friday and get some Omeprazole, I was so bunged up with heartburn and indigestion, I felt awful, my worse day so far, had flu like symptoms and constipation, what a combination, just dosed myself up with everything and went to bed, felt better yesterday, but cystitis now my main problem. I also use Dulcolax which can work fairly quickly, so be prepared!
My glands feel slightly swollen so having trouble swallowing and can only eat soft food, not that I can taste anything, oh joy!
On the subject of curry, I have a great low fat recipe made with chicken, spinach, coconut and yogurt, it’s yummy, going to make it tomorrow and hope it tastes the same, let me know if anyone wants the recipe, it’s really easy and healthy.
All those with hair issues this week, you are so brave, I really feel for you and I’m convinced my turn will come. Mine is still intact but I’m sure I have a bald patch developing on my crown and I get the odd itchy head moment. Chelle, I’m going to get another wig too as I’m not sure about mine either.

Jan, I also stayed up last night and watched The Stones at Glastonbury, great wasn’t it. My son is there and was so looking forward to going, I’m pleased the sun is shining for them all, must be a great place to be this weekend.
Hope you all have a good day.
Trish x
P.S. Micheal Buble on the box later, now that will be worth watching…….

[ambercatz]

Morning All, well it's my morning as have only just surfaced! I really shouldn't have stayed up last night to watch the Stones at Glasto but as Mick has been my idol since age 10 I had to and was so glad I did-he's still amazing. 69 years old, 2 hour set and still managing to hold an audience of 18 to 80 years old inthe palm of his hand. Would have loved to have been there but have seen them twice-sorry, adoration bit over!
Re the sun, everything I am reading says we need the vitamin D and lots of so I'm a bit confused here. I think it may be best to go out early or late in the day without sunblock for 30-45 mins as we don't get much in our diets and we get very little sun. There have been cases of ricketts coming back in kids due to a lack of vit D through sunblock so try to get some sun with care.
I'm glad the curry tasted good Chelle-I love indian food but have been worried about having a curry in case it was horrid and put me off for life. Have made dhal at home with lentils and spinach though which was tasty. Craved beef yesterday so bought a little steak-it was lovely and tender but didn't taste right-dissapointing, but I must have needed the protein.
Am loving green tea with a squeeze of lemon and a teaspoon of manuka honey at the moment.
It's cloudy here in Devon-boo! My son is at Wimbledon and it's baking there, was hoping for a walk by the coast in the sun to do my soul good.
Besides being very tired with achey legs I feel OK today (day 10) but think the leg ache is from stayinbg in bed too long-going to shift myself and run the dogs(the running reference to them not me!)and see if it helps.
Anyone know what day of the cycle we start to get energy levels back?
Hope those of you with sunshine enjoy it today and that all SE's are minimal
Jan x

[Marionblue]

Emma (peachy) I kept my hair for 5 weeks after 1st cycle. Was good enough to go out with. Then, within 2 days, I developed 2 big bald patches so it had to go. Couldn't see a point in keeping it if was even too embarrased to open the front door with it.
Also, a lady in Holland & Barretts told me to never warm Manuka Honey as that destroyes its antibacterial quality.

Gussie - Hang on in there. A couple more days and you will hopefully be fine.

Its very grey and windy today. I am expecting a couple of friend from Scotland to arrive any minute to stay for a couple of days. They have been to their YS in Southampton and are stopping off on their way back. I will probably have a bucket of disinfectant at the door just in case.

I trimmed the fringe on wiggy and it feels much better. I'm thinking of getting another one though. Might as well have fun with them while I'm bald. I'm thinking of having my hair shorter when it grows back so I might try a short wig to get used to it. (Sorry if I have said that before but can't remember).

Have a good day lovely ones.

Marion
XXX

[YB54321]

Emma (peachy) my hair was fine until day 16 and then it went with a bang. Had itchy scalp a couple of days before but very little shedding til then but I know some of the ladies have lasted a lot longer than that x

[YB54321]

Aw Gus take it easy! Hope you're feeling better later x I'm having a monster period at the mo. Not had them for nearly 10 yrs as the pill I was taking stopped them and really not enjoying having cramps after all this time! Sure the chemo will stop them soon anyways.

Just finishing a spot of cleaning before heading into town. Wig is itchy but think its more because my hair is still coming out, now have what looks like a bald Alice band across the middle of my head (it's very fetching!)

[PeachyPal]

Morning all,

Feeling pretty good at the start of week two of first cycle. Been to Sainsburys this morning with OH, nice and early to avoid crowds.

Emma (Melrose) - this is going to sound a really silly question, but what do you do with the honey - , warm it up and swill it like mouth wash?

Chelle - I would defo use the sympathy vote - there has to be some benefits to this. Most of them seem to be negative so I would go for it.

Cress - I would agree with Emma and keep an eye on your furry mouth. District nurse 'inspected' mine on Friday and said to be aware of thrush, we all have it aparently and we have a higher risk. White furry tongue was one of the signs she said I should look out for.

Vicki - it seems you have been lucky like me. my only SE has been fatique, apart from the first few days when taking the steroids. The last two nights I have slept 9-10 hours. Glad you like the Picc line covers, they do the job and are lightweight - much better than the tubigrip from the hospital.

Faye - Hope you had a lovely day yesterday - happy belated anniversay

Marion - my onc nurse also said nail strengthener or dark varnish. Strangest thing is, my nails in the last week have never been so good????

Fiona - I like your friends possitive vibes - 1/3 of the way through - way to go. My mum is doing a similar thing and it makes things seem a little easier to deal with.

Hope Martha is OK - feels like we have a limb missing without her updates and support.
Of those of you have shaved you heads, when did your hair start to fall out. I've not seen any loss as yet and haven't taken the plunge to buy a wig - I've been holding off but I'm going to have to sort it soon.
Well I'm off to parents again today, they have some gardening that needs doing so OH & I are going to help - factor 50 on in preperation.

Take care everyone - enjoy today (sunny here).

Emma xxxx