I hope you enjoy the video!! It's me and my 4 kids!!
Make sure your volume is on to get the full effect.
Too funny!!!!!
Send your own ElfYourself eCards
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Elf Video . . .
Hi Everyone,
I hope you enjoy the video!! It's me and my 4 kids!!
Make sure your volume is on to get the full effect.
Too funny!!!!!
I hope you enjoy the video!! It's me and my 4 kids!!
Make sure your volume is on to get the full effect.
Too funny!!!!!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Winter Solstice Photos
Hello Everyone,
I don't have a lot to write since my last post about my last radiation. Although I have not been feeling real good and been pretty tired the last couple of days. I'm wondering if the fatigue of radiation that they talk about is just now hitting me?
I have another blog . . .my photo blog, for those of you who may not have taken a look at it. Anyway, I took some pictures today and posted the below stuff on my photo blog and thought I'd just copy and paste it over here for those of you who are not subscribed to my photo blog.
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I took some photos today for a Winter Solstice Project and wanted to share a few with you. Boy are we getting pounded with snow!!
The Dump Truck, obviously retired for the winter.
I was using the flash on my camera and Cowboy wanted nothing to do with it, so he moved out of the shelter and wouldn't get any closer to me than this . . . .the big chicken!!
Spooky on the other hand wouldn't leave me alone, so I tossed her some hay. Put some food in front of her and she won't bug you for a little while!!
I had just finished taking pictures and was leaving the barn and I ran into Trouble. He decided the snow was too deep and followed or rather raced me back to the house!!
And here is one more of Cowboy. I used a Sepia tone on this one.
He's such a pretty boy. And as you can see my horses are fat and spoiled!! I was a little worried about how fat they were getting but then as soon as the frigid below zero temps and wind chill hit, I was really glad they had the extra layers to keep them warm.
Today when I was out there taking these photos the temperature was 10 degrees and the wind chill factor was about 7-10 BELOW zero!! My gloves made pressing the button on the camera really difficult so I took one off for a just a little bit to take the rest of the photos . . . . wow, it's amazing how quickly those kind of cold temperatures can effect the uncovered skin!!
I don't have a lot to write since my last post about my last radiation. Although I have not been feeling real good and been pretty tired the last couple of days. I'm wondering if the fatigue of radiation that they talk about is just now hitting me?
I have another blog . . .my photo blog, for those of you who may not have taken a look at it. Anyway, I took some pictures today and posted the below stuff on my photo blog and thought I'd just copy and paste it over here for those of you who are not subscribed to my photo blog.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I took some photos today for a Winter Solstice Project and wanted to share a few with you. Boy are we getting pounded with snow!!
The Dump Truck, obviously retired for the winter.
I was using the flash on my camera and Cowboy wanted nothing to do with it, so he moved out of the shelter and wouldn't get any closer to me than this . . . .the big chicken!!
Spooky on the other hand wouldn't leave me alone, so I tossed her some hay. Put some food in front of her and she won't bug you for a little while!!
I had just finished taking pictures and was leaving the barn and I ran into Trouble. He decided the snow was too deep and followed or rather raced me back to the house!!
And here is one more of Cowboy. I used a Sepia tone on this one.
He's such a pretty boy. And as you can see my horses are fat and spoiled!! I was a little worried about how fat they were getting but then as soon as the frigid below zero temps and wind chill hit, I was really glad they had the extra layers to keep them warm.
Today when I was out there taking these photos the temperature was 10 degrees and the wind chill factor was about 7-10 BELOW zero!! My gloves made pressing the button on the camera really difficult so I took one off for a just a little bit to take the rest of the photos . . . . wow, it's amazing how quickly those kind of cold temperatures can effect the uncovered skin!!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Last Radiation Treatment was today ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Hello Everyone,
Well, I had my last radiation treatment today!! I am so happy ! ! ! ! ! ! Just knowing I don't have to get up and go to town tomorrow is such a relief!! My hubby took me out for breakfast after treatment to celebrate.
Now I just want to stay home and not have to go anywhere for about a week. This may not be too difficult to do since we have just gotten a major amount of snow since yesterday. So much snow in fact that I wasn't sure I was going to go in for my treatment this morning, but Rick was determined to get me there for the last one and have it done and over with. I'm really glad we went and that I didn't postpone it.
It wasn't too bad getting there but coming home the snow had picked up, you couldn't see where the side of the road was and general visibility was really bad and the windshield wipers kept getting a build up of ice on them. We weren't the only ones having this problem . . . at almost every red light people were getting out of their cars/trucks and cleaning off their wipers. For those of you that read this and don't live around here . . . . we got about 3 feet of snow!!!!
The doctor said that the radiation will continue to "do it's stuff" and work on my cells for a few more weeks, so my skin will continue to be effected and itch. After that it will start getting better. They also said that the effects of fatigue can continue for another 6-8 weeks. Although, compared to the fatigue I had from chemo, this has not been bad.
Well, today is also my youngest son's 19th Birthday . . . . Happy Birthday Matthew!! I love you!!
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Well, I had my last radiation treatment today!! I am so happy ! ! ! ! ! ! Just knowing I don't have to get up and go to town tomorrow is such a relief!! My hubby took me out for breakfast after treatment to celebrate.
Now I just want to stay home and not have to go anywhere for about a week. This may not be too difficult to do since we have just gotten a major amount of snow since yesterday. So much snow in fact that I wasn't sure I was going to go in for my treatment this morning, but Rick was determined to get me there for the last one and have it done and over with. I'm really glad we went and that I didn't postpone it.
It wasn't too bad getting there but coming home the snow had picked up, you couldn't see where the side of the road was and general visibility was really bad and the windshield wipers kept getting a build up of ice on them. We weren't the only ones having this problem . . . at almost every red light people were getting out of their cars/trucks and cleaning off their wipers. For those of you that read this and don't live around here . . . . we got about 3 feet of snow!!!!
The doctor said that the radiation will continue to "do it's stuff" and work on my cells for a few more weeks, so my skin will continue to be effected and itch. After that it will start getting better. They also said that the effects of fatigue can continue for another 6-8 weeks. Although, compared to the fatigue I had from chemo, this has not been bad.
Well, today is also my youngest son's 19th Birthday . . . . Happy Birthday Matthew!! I love you!!
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Friday, December 12, 2008
I'm filled with sadness today . . for those that don't survive . . .
With all that I have gone through, I am still so fortunate. For this I say, Thank You Jesus.
Before I got cancer I knew there were people out there with cancer and some dying from it, but boy let me tell you that once you become one of those people, it takes on a whole different role. You look at it and the people who have it, in a whole new light.
Research has come a long way for most cancers and their treatment. With breast cancer, it seems like every where you turn there is a pink ribbon. Pink ribbons and other such things that promote funding for more research.
Although things have improved tremendously and more and more people survive breast cancer, there are still a lot of women who die from this horrid disease.
Last week I received an e-mail from a well know cancer foundation asking for year end donation to help fight breast cancer. I barely glanced at the first paragraph and closed the e-mail because I didn't want to read the sad but real information is was stating. It states that "someone dies from breast cancer every 75 seconds" and that last year 40,000 families lost a loved one to this killer. I'm not sure so please don't quote me but I think the population of Coeur d'Alene is around 40,000. To put this in perspective, can you imagine everyone in Coeur d'Alene dying within a year!!
Why am I talking about all of this tonight you might be asking. Here I am near the end of my treatments, doing well, with a very positive outlook and prognosis. Well, it's because some reality jumped out and hit me today, hit me like a flippin' rock!! Someone I know, not really well, but still I know this person, I've been to her house, I've met her family, I've run into her at the cancer center, etc., is dying from breast cancer. She has known since the beginning that her prognosis was not very good. I saw her a few months ago and she was looking great, very chipper, etc. I ran into her today as we were both out shopping for Christmas. She is now very weak and has to use a walker to get around. We talked for a few minutes, not about the cancer, well we did comment on each other's hat's, as we are both still bald enough to need to wear them, but that was pretty much it about the cancer.
This hit me really hard. Here she is out shopping for Christmas and guys I have to tell you, there is a chance she might not even still be here come Christmas!! Oh my, I feel so aweful about this, but at the same time I give her so much credit. She's not letting this keep her down, she is still living life, even as she is dying. I don't know if I could be that strong. Even now, as I write this, my eyes fill with tears as the reality hits me that today I was talking to and hugged a fellow breast cancer patient and friend . . . . who is dying, really and truly dying, of this horride, horride disease.
So, if you would, please won't you all say a little prayer for all those out there who are going through this or any other difficult journey. And if you have the means, please won't you do what you can to help further the research for this and/or any other conditions that are robbing so many of their lives.
Well, I'm sorry to be writing about such a sad thing, but unfortunatly it is reality.
Hugs and Best Wishes to you all,
Wendy
Before I got cancer I knew there were people out there with cancer and some dying from it, but boy let me tell you that once you become one of those people, it takes on a whole different role. You look at it and the people who have it, in a whole new light.
Research has come a long way for most cancers and their treatment. With breast cancer, it seems like every where you turn there is a pink ribbon. Pink ribbons and other such things that promote funding for more research.
Although things have improved tremendously and more and more people survive breast cancer, there are still a lot of women who die from this horrid disease.
Last week I received an e-mail from a well know cancer foundation asking for year end donation to help fight breast cancer. I barely glanced at the first paragraph and closed the e-mail because I didn't want to read the sad but real information is was stating. It states that "someone dies from breast cancer every 75 seconds" and that last year 40,000 families lost a loved one to this killer. I'm not sure so please don't quote me but I think the population of Coeur d'Alene is around 40,000. To put this in perspective, can you imagine everyone in Coeur d'Alene dying within a year!!
Why am I talking about all of this tonight you might be asking. Here I am near the end of my treatments, doing well, with a very positive outlook and prognosis. Well, it's because some reality jumped out and hit me today, hit me like a flippin' rock!! Someone I know, not really well, but still I know this person, I've been to her house, I've met her family, I've run into her at the cancer center, etc., is dying from breast cancer. She has known since the beginning that her prognosis was not very good. I saw her a few months ago and she was looking great, very chipper, etc. I ran into her today as we were both out shopping for Christmas. She is now very weak and has to use a walker to get around. We talked for a few minutes, not about the cancer, well we did comment on each other's hat's, as we are both still bald enough to need to wear them, but that was pretty much it about the cancer.
This hit me really hard. Here she is out shopping for Christmas and guys I have to tell you, there is a chance she might not even still be here come Christmas!! Oh my, I feel so aweful about this, but at the same time I give her so much credit. She's not letting this keep her down, she is still living life, even as she is dying. I don't know if I could be that strong. Even now, as I write this, my eyes fill with tears as the reality hits me that today I was talking to and hugged a fellow breast cancer patient and friend . . . . who is dying, really and truly dying, of this horride, horride disease.
So, if you would, please won't you all say a little prayer for all those out there who are going through this or any other difficult journey. And if you have the means, please won't you do what you can to help further the research for this and/or any other conditions that are robbing so many of their lives.
Well, I'm sorry to be writing about such a sad thing, but unfortunatly it is reality.
Hugs and Best Wishes to you all,
Wendy
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Only 5 treatments left!!!!!!!
Hello Everyone,
Well, I am really starting to get excited as I only have 5 more radiation treatments and then I am DONE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wow, it's been a long and trying road, but the worst is almost over!!
I saw the doctor today, as I usually do once a week. It's usually a quick visit to check my skin and see how I am doing. He was a bit surprised at just how red my skin has gotten. I asked him if it was a normal and/or average amount of redness and he said no, that I am above normal. That my skin has been effected quite a bit more than normal. I'm using all the lotions and potions that I am supposed to, but I guess it just goes to show that it really is different for everyone. Good thing is that it's really not hurting, but it can get to itching like crazy!!
They are doing the smaller more concentrated radiation now that focuses on the area where the tumor was. It involves the more sensitive parts of the whole area (i.e., scar from surgery & the nipple), so I am hoping that those areas don't get a lot worse before it's over. I guess we'll see what happens.
Oh boy, only 5 left!! I can't express enough just how great that sounds!!!!
Keep Smilin'
Hugs,
Wendy
Well, I am really starting to get excited as I only have 5 more radiation treatments and then I am DONE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wow, it's been a long and trying road, but the worst is almost over!!
I saw the doctor today, as I usually do once a week. It's usually a quick visit to check my skin and see how I am doing. He was a bit surprised at just how red my skin has gotten. I asked him if it was a normal and/or average amount of redness and he said no, that I am above normal. That my skin has been effected quite a bit more than normal. I'm using all the lotions and potions that I am supposed to, but I guess it just goes to show that it really is different for everyone. Good thing is that it's really not hurting, but it can get to itching like crazy!!
They are doing the smaller more concentrated radiation now that focuses on the area where the tumor was. It involves the more sensitive parts of the whole area (i.e., scar from surgery & the nipple), so I am hoping that those areas don't get a lot worse before it's over. I guess we'll see what happens.
Oh boy, only 5 left!! I can't express enough just how great that sounds!!!!
Keep Smilin'
Hugs,
Wendy
Friday, December 5, 2008
Update on radiation, hair & teeth
Today is then end of week 5 of radiation, I now have 1 1/2 weeks left. Up until now I've been doing pretty good about going to town every stinkin' day for radiation. But now it's starting to get old. It started yesterday and I'm feeling it again this morning . . . . I don't want to go!! Radiation is a quick and easy process so that is not the problem. The problem is that I'm just tired of it all. My skin is burnt and itching like crazy. I think I'm starting to feel the fatigue associated with radiation.
Next week on Tuesday they start the new, more concentrated dose of radiation, aimed more specifically on the area where my tumor was. This will be good for the rest of the area that is now burnt as it will have a chance to really start healing. But the 2 areas I'm most worried about and the only places that sometimes hurt from this, are in the area that will continue to get the more concentrated doses.
I have to keep telling myself . . . after today . . . . . only 9 more treatments and then I'll be done!! I can do this, I can do this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! God, please help me do this!!
Also, yesterday, Dec 4, 2008 I started the bisphosphonate drug study. I have to take 2 of these horse sized pills every morning before I eat or drink anything.
My hair continues to grow!! Slowly but shurly it is growing and I'm seeing more and more dark hairs coming in . . . . yipee!! I really hope the dark hair continues because I really just do not want to color my hair anymore!!! I'm going to be very tempted to not color it even if it comes in with a lot of gray. Gray hair is the only reason I've colored my hair for so many years and I'm just not looking forward to doing that again.
My new teeth are doing ok. The bottom one's do not fit very well so I don't wear them very much. Unlike the top teeth, you can't tell that I don't have the bottom one's in. The denturist won't realign them (to fit better) until after my gums have healed, as they will continue to shrink until them. So I'm stuck with these for a little while and doing the best I can to sort of eat more solid type foods.
Well, I must get ready to go for radiaiton.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Next week on Tuesday they start the new, more concentrated dose of radiation, aimed more specifically on the area where my tumor was. This will be good for the rest of the area that is now burnt as it will have a chance to really start healing. But the 2 areas I'm most worried about and the only places that sometimes hurt from this, are in the area that will continue to get the more concentrated doses.
I have to keep telling myself . . . after today . . . . . only 9 more treatments and then I'll be done!! I can do this, I can do this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! God, please help me do this!!
Also, yesterday, Dec 4, 2008 I started the bisphosphonate drug study. I have to take 2 of these horse sized pills every morning before I eat or drink anything.
My hair continues to grow!! Slowly but shurly it is growing and I'm seeing more and more dark hairs coming in . . . . yipee!! I really hope the dark hair continues because I really just do not want to color my hair anymore!!! I'm going to be very tempted to not color it even if it comes in with a lot of gray. Gray hair is the only reason I've colored my hair for so many years and I'm just not looking forward to doing that again.
My new teeth are doing ok. The bottom one's do not fit very well so I don't wear them very much. Unlike the top teeth, you can't tell that I don't have the bottom one's in. The denturist won't realign them (to fit better) until after my gums have healed, as they will continue to shrink until them. So I'm stuck with these for a little while and doing the best I can to sort of eat more solid type foods.
Well, I must get ready to go for radiaiton.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Half way through Radiation
Hello Everyone, I am now half way through my radiation treatments!! The skin around my breast is starting to show signs that it's going through something!! It's got red spots all over and I have 1 area just below my armpit, by the scare where they took the lymph nodes, that was being irritated by some undershirts that I was wearing, causing it to be real red and itchy. I'm using a special cream on that area and not wearing the undershirts anymore and it seems to be getting better. I'm happy to say that my mouth seems to be healing well. The denturist won't make any adjustments to my new teeth until I've healed up some more, as the gum shrinks with healing. So the new teeth are not fitting well, especially the bottom ones. But I am now able to use some stuff called Cushion Grip that helps hold them in place. Because of this I was actually able to eat some mashed potatoes and little bit of corn last night without it hurting. I don't think my stomach knew what to do with some what solid food. I've been living on mostly liquids for 12 days now!! Soup, cream of wheat & oatmeal-thin enough that I can just drink it, yogurt, pudding, Ensure, etc. I went to the grocery store yesterday to get the cushion grip and it was pure torture, seeing and smelling all of the foods that I cannot yet even beging to eat. I'm starving for some really good food!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Tomorrow (Thanksgiving) should be interesting, but hopefully I should be able to eat my favorites, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes with roasted marshmellows on top and hopefully my most favorite--my mom's stuffing that she makes special for me, cooking it seperate from the turkey, getting the tops and edges crispy . . . oh yum, it sounds so good. Wish me luck!! My hair is growning in more and more, although still barely noticable, but I am seeing more dark hairs, so there is hope!!
I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!!
Keep Smilin' Wendy
I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!!
Keep Smilin' Wendy
Sunday, November 16, 2008
New Teeth, radiation and hair update
Hello Everyone,
Well, I'm a hurting puppy this morning!! I got my teeth pulled on Friday. All is going as well as can be expected except that I slept way past time for taking my pain meds this morning and I woke up hurting pretty good!! I'm still waiting for them to kick in . . . . it's not a good thing to get behind on the pain meds!!
Radiation is going well, I start week 3 tomorrow. I had a quick visit with my radiation oncologist on Thursday and he said my radiation area is looking great.
I've noticed that I'm starting to get some dark hairs mixed in with the white one's on the side of my head!! So, I guess there is still hope that I won't be totally gray or white. But I can see that this whole hair growing out process is going to be a long one. Especially with light colored hair, it doesn't show up near as well as dark hair, so it still looks like I'm bald!! Oh well, believe me that not having hair has become a very small issue in the realm of all things!!
Well, I've got to get a warm towel and lay down with it on my face . . . it's supposed to help the swelling, which should also help the pain . . .I hope, I hope, I hope!!
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Well, I'm a hurting puppy this morning!! I got my teeth pulled on Friday. All is going as well as can be expected except that I slept way past time for taking my pain meds this morning and I woke up hurting pretty good!! I'm still waiting for them to kick in . . . . it's not a good thing to get behind on the pain meds!!
Radiation is going well, I start week 3 tomorrow. I had a quick visit with my radiation oncologist on Thursday and he said my radiation area is looking great.
I've noticed that I'm starting to get some dark hairs mixed in with the white one's on the side of my head!! So, I guess there is still hope that I won't be totally gray or white. But I can see that this whole hair growing out process is going to be a long one. Especially with light colored hair, it doesn't show up near as well as dark hair, so it still looks like I'm bald!! Oh well, believe me that not having hair has become a very small issue in the realm of all things!!
Well, I've got to get a warm towel and lay down with it on my face . . . it's supposed to help the swelling, which should also help the pain . . .I hope, I hope, I hope!!
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
2nd week of radiation
Hello everyone,
Just a quick note before I head out the door for more doctor appointments!! I made it through the first week of radiation and I'm now in my second week. It's really a very quick and easy process. They schedule people every 12 minutes and no where I've ever been before runs exactly on time like these folks do. I guess there is really nothing that happens to delay or prolong the treatment, so no reason for them to be running behind.
The folks that do my treatments are really nice and very helpful. I had some questions last week about some new medicine I'm taking and if it would be any problem with having radiation and as soon as I was done with treatment they got me in to see the nurse so I could talk to her about it all.
Last week was a little rough. The new pain meds the doc put me on caused me to have some pretty intense itching for a few days. Got that changed and it's much better now and I'm on antibiotics for a sinus infection.
I had one day this last weekend where I felt really, really great. It was kind of weird to feel so good and be totally aware of it after so many months of feeling like crud.
My hair is starting to grow back in :) Yeah . . . . . but it's seems to be coming in whiter than it was before!!
I have oral surgery this Friday to get my teeth pulled. I gotta tell you that I'm more nervous about that than any other type of surgery I've ever had. One one hand I'm pretty scared about it, on the other hand I'm looking forward to getting it done and over with.
OK, I better run . . . going to be late.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Just a quick note before I head out the door for more doctor appointments!! I made it through the first week of radiation and I'm now in my second week. It's really a very quick and easy process. They schedule people every 12 minutes and no where I've ever been before runs exactly on time like these folks do. I guess there is really nothing that happens to delay or prolong the treatment, so no reason for them to be running behind.
The folks that do my treatments are really nice and very helpful. I had some questions last week about some new medicine I'm taking and if it would be any problem with having radiation and as soon as I was done with treatment they got me in to see the nurse so I could talk to her about it all.
Last week was a little rough. The new pain meds the doc put me on caused me to have some pretty intense itching for a few days. Got that changed and it's much better now and I'm on antibiotics for a sinus infection.
I had one day this last weekend where I felt really, really great. It was kind of weird to feel so good and be totally aware of it after so many months of feeling like crud.
My hair is starting to grow back in :) Yeah . . . . . but it's seems to be coming in whiter than it was before!!
I have oral surgery this Friday to get my teeth pulled. I gotta tell you that I'm more nervous about that than any other type of surgery I've ever had. One one hand I'm pretty scared about it, on the other hand I'm looking forward to getting it done and over with.
OK, I better run . . . going to be late.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
I received a gift from The Pampered Chef today
I received a gift from The Pampered Chef today. It does not say who sent this gift to me. I'm hoping that the person who sent it reads my blog because I want to say a great big THANK YOU ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
The only clue I have to who this came from is a phone number on the packing slip and although I don't know who's it is, it's from a Colorado area code.
The gift is a set of large cups and a set of clips with magnets on the back for hanging things on the fridge, etc. The cups are pink with white polka dots on the outside and a pink ribbon on the inside bottom of the cups. The clips are in the shape of a pink ribbon.
These are really awesome and again . . . . THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
The only clue I have to who this came from is a phone number on the packing slip and although I don't know who's it is, it's from a Colorado area code.
The gift is a set of large cups and a set of clips with magnets on the back for hanging things on the fridge, etc. The cups are pink with white polka dots on the outside and a pink ribbon on the inside bottom of the cups. The clips are in the shape of a pink ribbon.
These are really awesome and again . . . . THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Monday, November 3, 2008
First Radiation Today
Hello,
I had my first radiation treatment today. They had to do some more measuring and a couple of x-rays to make sure they radiate the right spot. They drew all around my breast area with a permanent marker and when they had everything just right, they gave me 3 tiny tattoos. Each tattoo is about the size of a freckle and I have one in the middle of my chest, one on my right side and one on my left side. Just FYI those are sensitive little area's to be getting poked with a needle!!
They gave me 2 tubes of special lotions that I have to put on the area twice a day. These lotions help to protect the skin so it doesn't get to "burnt" from all the treatments. I will be getting a total of 33 treatments with the last one being on Dec 18th.
I see my regular doctor tomorrow about my ankle that is still swollen and hurting. My muscles are still hurting and I have a rash on my back that has spread to my neck and is starting to itch A LOT!! Oh, I also have a sore throat and I think I'm getting a sinus infection . . . oh the joys!!
Well, that's about it for now. I hope you are all doing well.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
I had my first radiation treatment today. They had to do some more measuring and a couple of x-rays to make sure they radiate the right spot. They drew all around my breast area with a permanent marker and when they had everything just right, they gave me 3 tiny tattoos. Each tattoo is about the size of a freckle and I have one in the middle of my chest, one on my right side and one on my left side. Just FYI those are sensitive little area's to be getting poked with a needle!!
They gave me 2 tubes of special lotions that I have to put on the area twice a day. These lotions help to protect the skin so it doesn't get to "burnt" from all the treatments. I will be getting a total of 33 treatments with the last one being on Dec 18th.
I see my regular doctor tomorrow about my ankle that is still swollen and hurting. My muscles are still hurting and I have a rash on my back that has spread to my neck and is starting to itch A LOT!! Oh, I also have a sore throat and I think I'm getting a sinus infection . . . oh the joys!!
Well, that's about it for now. I hope you are all doing well.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Friday, October 31, 2008
Thanks to everyone who has donated ! ! ! !
Just a quick note . . . . I want to thank everyone who has donated to the Passionately Pink for the Cure Fundraiser!!! Every dollar counts and your donations WILL make a difference!!!
For those of you who haven't donated yet . . . . it only takes a couple of minutes!!!
Thank you so much,
Wendy
For those of you who haven't donated yet . . . . it only takes a couple of minutes!!!
Thank you so much,
Wendy
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Please, it's only $5.00
Hi Everyone,
I just wanted to take a minute and ask that if at all possible, please take a few minutes and donate to my Passionately Pink for the Cure fundraiser.
It only takes a couple of minutes and you only need to donate $5.00!!
The link to my Event Page is below . . . right above the thermometer that shows the progress of the fundraiser, is a DONATE button.
http://www.komendonations.org/site/TR/PassionatelyPink/PassionatelyPink?px=2736592&pg=personal&fr_id=1080&et=jck-xfp36U5IdGzr9Dc_Kg..&s_tafId=12020 ">
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
I just wanted to take a minute and ask that if at all possible, please take a few minutes and donate to my Passionately Pink for the Cure fundraiser.
It only takes a couple of minutes and you only need to donate $5.00!!
The link to my Event Page is below . . . right above the thermometer that shows the progress of the fundraiser, is a DONATE button.
http://www.komendonations.org/site/TR/PassionatelyPink/PassionatelyPink?px=2736592&pg=personal&fr_id=1080&et=jck-xfp36U5IdGzr9Dc_Kg..&s_tafId=12020 ">
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Passionately Pink for the Cure Fundraiser
Hello Everyone,
October is Breast Cancer Month and I have signed up with the Passionately Pink for the Cure fundraiser event. All donations made will go to the Susan G Komen for the Cure foundation. All they ask for is a minimum donation of $5.00.
Please follow the link below and it will lead you to my personal page on Passionately Pink for the Cure. There you can read a little something that I wrote and make your donations.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me.
I want to thank each and every one of you in advance for taking the time to support additional research for the fight again Breast Cancer.
Click below to visit my personal on Passionately Pink for the Cure.
http://www.komendonations.org/site/TR/PassionatelyPink/PassionatelyPink?px=2736592&pg=personal&fr_id=1080&et=jck-xfp36U5IdGzr9Dc_Kg..&s_tafId=12020
October is Breast Cancer Month and I have signed up with the Passionately Pink for the Cure fundraiser event. All donations made will go to the Susan G Komen for the Cure foundation. All they ask for is a minimum donation of $5.00.
Please follow the link below and it will lead you to my personal page on Passionately Pink for the Cure. There you can read a little something that I wrote and make your donations.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me.
I want to thank each and every one of you in advance for taking the time to support additional research for the fight again Breast Cancer.
Click below to visit my personal on Passionately Pink for the Cure.
http://www.komendonations.org/site/TR/PassionatelyPink/PassionatelyPink?px=2736592&pg=personal&fr_id=1080&et=jck-xfp36U5IdGzr9Dc_Kg..&s_tafId=12020
Friday, October 24, 2008
Polymyalgia Rheumatica
This is what my oncologist thinks might be causing my muscle pain. He did a blood test that showed a low level of this and the best treatment is a low dose of steroids. So he's called me in some prednizone which I have to pick up tomorrow and start taking. If the prednizone does not make it better, then it's not Polymyalgia Rheumatica.
My opinion is that it's not this weird thing, mostly because the parts of the body that are usually effected by this are not the parts that I'm having the most trouble with. BUT I could be wrong and I guess we'll know early next week . . . .if the steroids help or not . . . again, I said I could be wrong.
Today was a little stressful because I start getting ready for radiation next week and I also have to try and see if I can get my dentures and teeth pulled and also start the biophosphenates. It's all in the timing of everything and the doctor is going to get some answers for me and try to help me with making it all work out. The big deal is that I have to start the biophosphenates by November 26th, they have to be started within 8 weeks of the last chemo treatment. Once on this drug, no dental work should be done because there is a very rare but possible chance of jaw bone problems.
I think I can get my teeth pulled while I'm doing radiation, he's checking on that, but my concern is if I'll feel well enough to go in for radiation right after having this major oral surgery. I had hoped to have a week to heel up, but the radiation can't wait, we have to get that started right away.
I'm just not going to let myself stress about this . . . it will work out, one way or another.
I met my radiation oncologist and 2 of his nurses today, like most everyone else at the cancer center . . . . they are very nice.
So that's my medical update for the moment. I hope you all have a great weekend :)
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
My opinion is that it's not this weird thing, mostly because the parts of the body that are usually effected by this are not the parts that I'm having the most trouble with. BUT I could be wrong and I guess we'll know early next week . . . .if the steroids help or not . . . again, I said I could be wrong.
Today was a little stressful because I start getting ready for radiation next week and I also have to try and see if I can get my dentures and teeth pulled and also start the biophosphenates. It's all in the timing of everything and the doctor is going to get some answers for me and try to help me with making it all work out. The big deal is that I have to start the biophosphenates by November 26th, they have to be started within 8 weeks of the last chemo treatment. Once on this drug, no dental work should be done because there is a very rare but possible chance of jaw bone problems.
I think I can get my teeth pulled while I'm doing radiation, he's checking on that, but my concern is if I'll feel well enough to go in for radiation right after having this major oral surgery. I had hoped to have a week to heel up, but the radiation can't wait, we have to get that started right away.
I'm just not going to let myself stress about this . . . it will work out, one way or another.
I met my radiation oncologist and 2 of his nurses today, like most everyone else at the cancer center . . . . they are very nice.
So that's my medical update for the moment. I hope you all have a great weekend :)
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Struggling with muscle aches
It's funny how I think because I had my last chemo treatment that I should be feeling a lot better. Like magically my body should be getting back to normal. Well, my body doesn't yet know it's had it's last chemo, for all it knows we'll be going in on Friday for another dose, as that will be 3 weeks since my last treatment.
I know I need to give myself some time. I would hope by week 4 or 5 I will be feeling a lot better. But it's not like you wake up after the last chemo treatment and suddenly you have hair, or you have tons of energy, or your body doesn't hurt anymore or your fingernails and toenails stop separating from the nail beds. Yes, my toenails are doing it too.
This week and especially today my muscles are really hurting, especially my leg muscles. When I first stand up to walk I am stiff and it hurts. After walking a little bit it gets better, but this really stinks. I feel like an old lady!!
I see my oncologist on Friday, so I will talk to him more about this. I will also see the radiation oncologist for the first time. I'm looking forward to that, to find out more about what is ahead of me. I don't know much about the process of radiation yet. All I know is that I go in every stinkin' day Monday through Friday for 6 weeks. I hope I'll be able to get it over with before the snow flies and while the roads are good.
I'm also looking forward to seeing my medical oncologist (cancer doctor) as I will be learning more about the study I have signed up to participate in.
I will write more about the study and some other things, (major dental work that I need done) after I see all the doctors on Friday.
I hope you are all having a good week.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
I know I need to give myself some time. I would hope by week 4 or 5 I will be feeling a lot better. But it's not like you wake up after the last chemo treatment and suddenly you have hair, or you have tons of energy, or your body doesn't hurt anymore or your fingernails and toenails stop separating from the nail beds. Yes, my toenails are doing it too.
This week and especially today my muscles are really hurting, especially my leg muscles. When I first stand up to walk I am stiff and it hurts. After walking a little bit it gets better, but this really stinks. I feel like an old lady!!
I see my oncologist on Friday, so I will talk to him more about this. I will also see the radiation oncologist for the first time. I'm looking forward to that, to find out more about what is ahead of me. I don't know much about the process of radiation yet. All I know is that I go in every stinkin' day Monday through Friday for 6 weeks. I hope I'll be able to get it over with before the snow flies and while the roads are good.
I'm also looking forward to seeing my medical oncologist (cancer doctor) as I will be learning more about the study I have signed up to participate in.
I will write more about the study and some other things, (major dental work that I need done) after I see all the doctors on Friday.
I hope you are all having a good week.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Living Proof---the movie
I watched the true story movie Living Proof tonight. Wow, it was great and if you didn't see it or know what it's about . . . it's about the doctor that discovered Herceptin as a breast cancer treatment, that has saved thousands of lives.
I believe it's on again tomorrow night (Sunday) on Lifetime. If you didn't see it tonight, please try to watch it tomorrow night. It is a great movie!!
Herceptin is used against breast cancer that is HER2 positive. My breast cancer is HER2 negative so this is not a treatment that I receive.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
I believe it's on again tomorrow night (Sunday) on Lifetime. If you didn't see it tonight, please try to watch it tomorrow night. It is a great movie!!
Herceptin is used against breast cancer that is HER2 positive. My breast cancer is HER2 negative so this is not a treatment that I receive.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Feeling a little sick, but not chemo related.
I started not feeling too good earlier this week. My left ear and the side of my neck was hurting. On Wednesday I decided it was time to see the doctor. I tried to see my primary doc but she was all booked up. Before heading to the ER I decided to call the cancer center and spoke with a nurse about what I was feeling. She wanted me to come into the office so the doc could take a look. I had to go in for blood work anyway and then I saw the doc after that.
I really thought I had an ear infection because my ear was hurting so much, but it turns out my ears looked great. About half way down between my left ear and my throat, I have a very tender spot, which I figured was a swollen lymph node. The doctor sent me for an ultrasound. He wanted to see if maybe it was an abscess or anything else that we needed to worry about. The ultrasound showed that it was indeed a swollen lymph node. I just can't believe how painful this thing is . . .I've had tender lymph nodes before, but nothing like this. It hurts when I swallow because it's moving the muscles next to it, and the pain is radiating out and that is what is causing my ear to hurt. Besides a little stuffiness, I have no other symptoms of being sick, so we are not sure what is causing this. The doc does not want to put me on antibiotics yet since he's not sure if I really need them or not. He did say it was good that I came in and if it gets any worse or I get any other symptoms to let him know right away.
It just seems like there is always something!!!! Tomorrow is 2 weeks since my last chemo. I might be feeling better chemo wise, but it's hard to tell since this other thing is hurting so much.
I get a little excited to think about having enough energy to actually be able to do something, I mean like, really something. I want to clean my barn and get it ready for winter and set up some outside wind blocks under the lean-to for the horses. I've been keeping busy doing a lot of crocheting and I'm getting a lot of Christmas presents done . . . . but it gets a little boring. Oh and I've just about played myself to death, playing Free Cell on the computer!!
Well, that's about all I have for now. I hope all of you are doing well :)
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
I really thought I had an ear infection because my ear was hurting so much, but it turns out my ears looked great. About half way down between my left ear and my throat, I have a very tender spot, which I figured was a swollen lymph node. The doctor sent me for an ultrasound. He wanted to see if maybe it was an abscess or anything else that we needed to worry about. The ultrasound showed that it was indeed a swollen lymph node. I just can't believe how painful this thing is . . .I've had tender lymph nodes before, but nothing like this. It hurts when I swallow because it's moving the muscles next to it, and the pain is radiating out and that is what is causing my ear to hurt. Besides a little stuffiness, I have no other symptoms of being sick, so we are not sure what is causing this. The doc does not want to put me on antibiotics yet since he's not sure if I really need them or not. He did say it was good that I came in and if it gets any worse or I get any other symptoms to let him know right away.
It just seems like there is always something!!!! Tomorrow is 2 weeks since my last chemo. I might be feeling better chemo wise, but it's hard to tell since this other thing is hurting so much.
I get a little excited to think about having enough energy to actually be able to do something, I mean like, really something. I want to clean my barn and get it ready for winter and set up some outside wind blocks under the lean-to for the horses. I've been keeping busy doing a lot of crocheting and I'm getting a lot of Christmas presents done . . . . but it gets a little boring. Oh and I've just about played myself to death, playing Free Cell on the computer!!
Well, that's about all I have for now. I hope all of you are doing well :)
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
The kindness of strangers
Over the last several months while going through this journey of mine, I have received gifts and e-mails from complete strangers wishing me well. I wanted to take a moment and acknowledge these people and let them know just how much their correspondence and thoughtfulness has meant to me.
Most of these folks have had a relative or close friend that has or had cancer. Some of them have had to live through loosing that close friend or dear family member to this awful disease. Please know that my heart goes out to each and every one of you.
Some of these folks have happened upon my personal blog in the strangest of ways and it's always very interesting to me how that happens. The internet is just an amazing thing!!
I received an e-mail last week from some folks that touched me very, very deeply. If they read this post I hope they know I'm talking about them. These days it's hard to find someone who will go out of their way and take that extra minute that can make all the difference in someone's life.
I am as guilty of this as the next person, we get caught up in our own day to day lives and although we "mean to", it just never gets done. I hope, especially after what I'm going through, to change my ways. You never know just how much that phone call, e-mail or text message can change a persons day and even change their outlook, hopefully for the better.
I want to ask each and every one of you to please go out of your way at least once in the next week to brighten someone's day. I just sent an e-mail to a fellow photographer telling him how much I loved some special effects images that he did . . . . I know that would make me feel great. I've wanted to write him for over a week about those images, so now I finally did it.
I want to thank each and every one of you that have been reading my blog and have commented or e-mailed me. You have no idea how much having this blog and knowing that someone is actually reading it has meant to me. You have all in your own ways helped me more than you will know.
God Bless You All,
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Most of these folks have had a relative or close friend that has or had cancer. Some of them have had to live through loosing that close friend or dear family member to this awful disease. Please know that my heart goes out to each and every one of you.
Some of these folks have happened upon my personal blog in the strangest of ways and it's always very interesting to me how that happens. The internet is just an amazing thing!!
I received an e-mail last week from some folks that touched me very, very deeply. If they read this post I hope they know I'm talking about them. These days it's hard to find someone who will go out of their way and take that extra minute that can make all the difference in someone's life.
I am as guilty of this as the next person, we get caught up in our own day to day lives and although we "mean to", it just never gets done. I hope, especially after what I'm going through, to change my ways. You never know just how much that phone call, e-mail or text message can change a persons day and even change their outlook, hopefully for the better.
I want to ask each and every one of you to please go out of your way at least once in the next week to brighten someone's day. I just sent an e-mail to a fellow photographer telling him how much I loved some special effects images that he did . . . . I know that would make me feel great. I've wanted to write him for over a week about those images, so now I finally did it.
I want to thank each and every one of you that have been reading my blog and have commented or e-mailed me. You have no idea how much having this blog and knowing that someone is actually reading it has meant to me. You have all in your own ways helped me more than you will know.
God Bless You All,
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Wednesday - Oct 8, 2008
WOW, I can't believe it's Wednesday already!! I went in yesterday for my Neulasta shot and boy am I feeling it today!! Feels like I've been in another train wreck . . . and they question my wanting pain pills . . . . please give me a break!!
Everything hurts from my eyeballs to my toes and I have a sore throat too!! My nail beds are hurting so I'm sure that means more nails will start separating from the beds. Oh and my mouth . . . it hurts more than usual and eating dinner was a little rough tonight. And I'm getting another yeast infection and another very painful cyst in my groin area. Oh the joys of chemo and all that goes with it . . . . I guess I'm just getting the double whammy of side effects since this was my last treatment . . . .I'm going out with a bang!!
BUT . . . . it's the last one, the last one, the last one, it's the last one, the last one, the last!!!!!!!!!!!!
I can't wait for the day that I feel half normal again . . . . I can only imagine how great that is going to be!! Just FYI, there are people who have the side effects from chemo hang on long after they are done with chemo. I don't plan to be one of those, but just thought I'd throw that out there.
I'm going to soak in the tub and hope it helps my poor body to feel a little better.
Keep Smilin'
Hugs,
Wendy
Everything hurts from my eyeballs to my toes and I have a sore throat too!! My nail beds are hurting so I'm sure that means more nails will start separating from the beds. Oh and my mouth . . . it hurts more than usual and eating dinner was a little rough tonight. And I'm getting another yeast infection and another very painful cyst in my groin area. Oh the joys of chemo and all that goes with it . . . . I guess I'm just getting the double whammy of side effects since this was my last treatment . . . .I'm going out with a bang!!
BUT . . . . it's the last one, the last one, the last one, it's the last one, the last one, the last!!!!!!!!!!!!
I can't wait for the day that I feel half normal again . . . . I can only imagine how great that is going to be!! Just FYI, there are people who have the side effects from chemo hang on long after they are done with chemo. I don't plan to be one of those, but just thought I'd throw that out there.
I'm going to soak in the tub and hope it helps my poor body to feel a little better.
Keep Smilin'
Hugs,
Wendy
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Day 3 after last chemo treatment
My chemo on Friday went well. When I was all done they gave me a "chemo cake" and a certificate that was signed by several of the nurses and a book about life after treatment. It was very nice . . . they are such a great group of people at the cancer center.
I've had a couple of pretty rough days emotionally. I know not everyone is like me in the emotions department, but I gotta tell you guys, it's really bad for me. Thank goodness I'm on the upswing of the emotions part of it now. I suppose it would be bad enough if it were only the cancer and chemo I was dealing with, but add in all the other things that are going on in my life and boy can it be overwhelming.
This is one reason it takes me a few days to write after chemo. For one thing I can't stop crying long enough to write. For another thing if I actually wrote in any detail about how I was feeling, thinking, etc., someone would surly send over the guys with the white wrap around suits who would take me to a rubber room!! Yes, honestly it can get that bad.
For all of you that have known or will know anyone in the future going through this or anything like it . . . please know it's probably much worse for them at times than anyone . . . even their immediate family . . . will ever know. Why is this . . .well for me it's because I try to be strong for the most part and usually fall apart when no one is around or in the middle of the night when everyone is sleeping. If they do catch me crying or having a hard time, I know it's very hard for them because they want to help but there is really not much they can do. Mostly it helps if they just listen . . . and a hug, a really long hug . . . like just holding them for a while, can have a great relaxing effect. Well, unless they are not huggers and although it's very hard for me to believe, there are people out there that are not huggers!!!!
I need to eat and try to get some rest. I will write more later.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
I've had a couple of pretty rough days emotionally. I know not everyone is like me in the emotions department, but I gotta tell you guys, it's really bad for me. Thank goodness I'm on the upswing of the emotions part of it now. I suppose it would be bad enough if it were only the cancer and chemo I was dealing with, but add in all the other things that are going on in my life and boy can it be overwhelming.
This is one reason it takes me a few days to write after chemo. For one thing I can't stop crying long enough to write. For another thing if I actually wrote in any detail about how I was feeling, thinking, etc., someone would surly send over the guys with the white wrap around suits who would take me to a rubber room!! Yes, honestly it can get that bad.
For all of you that have known or will know anyone in the future going through this or anything like it . . . please know it's probably much worse for them at times than anyone . . . even their immediate family . . . will ever know. Why is this . . .well for me it's because I try to be strong for the most part and usually fall apart when no one is around or in the middle of the night when everyone is sleeping. If they do catch me crying or having a hard time, I know it's very hard for them because they want to help but there is really not much they can do. Mostly it helps if they just listen . . . and a hug, a really long hug . . . like just holding them for a while, can have a great relaxing effect. Well, unless they are not huggers and although it's very hard for me to believe, there are people out there that are not huggers!!!!
I need to eat and try to get some rest. I will write more later.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Here I sit, the day before my last chemo treatment. I'm really glad it's the last one, but I am so dreading it. I'm supposed to start my anti nausea pills today. I'm supposed to take 2 this morning and 2 tonight. They leave a weird after taste in my mouth and I just don't want to take them, but I've got to. It's better than the alternative which would be a greater chance of vomiting after treatment and I really, really don't want that. I also think these pills and the anti-nausea drug they give me with chemo is part of why my coffee taste so bad. Oh, that reminds me, I better drink extra coffee today because tomorrow it will start tasting like crap!!
I started writing this morning, and now it's night time.
I went to the doctor today. I saw a different doctor because mine is on vacation. This doctor was really nice and I liked him a lot. My doctor is great too, but I didn't know what it would be like to see someone different and it turned out really well. He said my blood test all look OK. I showed him my fingernails and well . . . some of them are starting to separate from my nail beds. Loosing nails is one of the possible side effects. I thought this late in the game and since my nails had still been looking pretty good, that I would avoid this, but NOOOOOOOOOOO. So how great is that . . . I'm going to loose at least some, maybe all of my fingernails . . . . that should look real attractive. At least winter is coming and I'll be able to wear gloves a lot. How long does it take to grow fingernails from scratch?? I think a long time!!!
Boy, I gotta tell ya, that sometimes it's hard to keep trying to come up with positive thoughts to counter all the negative that is going on.
One other thing that he talked about that could have me a little worried, but I just won't let it. He looked at my neck and upper chest area where I happen to have some spider viens. He asked me if I had a history of drinking or liver disease. Well, any of you that know me, know I have NEVER had a drinking problem and I have no liver problems that I've ever known about and none in my family history that I know about. Then I laid down on the table for him to check my ankels for swelling, etc and to feel around my stomach. He took some extra time feeling around my liver area and making sure it wasn't tender or hurting me, which it was not. I actually have some of these spider viens on my cheeks too and if I think about it, I think the spider viens themselves may be hereditary. They do blood test all the time on me and the check for things like liver functionality, etc., so I know if there was or ever is a problem they will tell me. I think he was just making sure that I wasn't feeling any pains in my liver area.
Ok, well I have the last chemo tomorrow. I am so happy about that I just can't tell you!!
I'll write when I can after chemo.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
I started writing this morning, and now it's night time.
I went to the doctor today. I saw a different doctor because mine is on vacation. This doctor was really nice and I liked him a lot. My doctor is great too, but I didn't know what it would be like to see someone different and it turned out really well. He said my blood test all look OK. I showed him my fingernails and well . . . some of them are starting to separate from my nail beds. Loosing nails is one of the possible side effects. I thought this late in the game and since my nails had still been looking pretty good, that I would avoid this, but NOOOOOOOOOOO. So how great is that . . . I'm going to loose at least some, maybe all of my fingernails . . . . that should look real attractive. At least winter is coming and I'll be able to wear gloves a lot. How long does it take to grow fingernails from scratch?? I think a long time!!!
Boy, I gotta tell ya, that sometimes it's hard to keep trying to come up with positive thoughts to counter all the negative that is going on.
One other thing that he talked about that could have me a little worried, but I just won't let it. He looked at my neck and upper chest area where I happen to have some spider viens. He asked me if I had a history of drinking or liver disease. Well, any of you that know me, know I have NEVER had a drinking problem and I have no liver problems that I've ever known about and none in my family history that I know about. Then I laid down on the table for him to check my ankels for swelling, etc and to feel around my stomach. He took some extra time feeling around my liver area and making sure it wasn't tender or hurting me, which it was not. I actually have some of these spider viens on my cheeks too and if I think about it, I think the spider viens themselves may be hereditary. They do blood test all the time on me and the check for things like liver functionality, etc., so I know if there was or ever is a problem they will tell me. I think he was just making sure that I wasn't feeling any pains in my liver area.
Ok, well I have the last chemo tomorrow. I am so happy about that I just can't tell you!!
I'll write when I can after chemo.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Monday, September 29, 2008
Two Good Days!!!
I've been complaining about the bad days a lot, so it's only fair that I give the good days the credit they deserve!! I have had 2 pretty good days, Sunday and today!! Sunday I helped Chelsea clean the house and then I washed the living room windows and screen door, inside and outside. I watered my flowers and spent a little time outside just enjoying the beautiful weather we had. When it was time to feed the horses I spent some much needed time with them. I brushed them and they were loving it, and cleaned their hooves. By the time I was done I was pretty beat, but it was really nice and the horses needed it as much as I did. Today I went to the grocery store and then had a meeting at Richards school. I actually fixed myself up a little bit, make up and all and even wore my wig!! So, it is really nice to be able to say I've had a couple good days, it seems like it's been a while.
Tomorrow I go see the surgeon for a follow-up visit to see how I'm doing and healing since surgery. I can't wait to talk to him and tell him about this tendon or what ever that is hurting me so much.
Wednesday I am hoping to do my daughters and her friends senior pictures. They are running out of time to get them in the yearbook, but they keep putting it off. The weather is supposed to be nice and hopefully Chelsea will be feeling better too. She has had a really bad cold the last couple of days.
Thursday I have my pre-chemo doctor visit and blood work done.
Friday I have my LAST chemo treatment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The time has gone by pretty darn fast. I can't wait to see how I will be feeling after not having chemo for a while. I'm hoping all of my aches and pains will go away!! Then I'm sure I'll be complaining to you all about having to drive to town every day for radiation . . . . . we are never happy . . . LOL We have an apple tree by the barn. The apples aren't worth eating but the deer and the horses love them. I got some of the apples the other day and made a trail of them that led into my back yard. I'm hoping to be able to see the deer out my kitchen window. Well today all but 2 of the apples are gone and one of them has a bit out of it. But did I get to see the deer eating them, NO . . .but I know it was the deer that got them cuz', they left deer poop behind. I hope those of you that have signed up to be notified of new post are getting the notice. I did not get a notice after publishing my last post, so I don't know if you did either. If I don't get a notice on this one I may e-mail you all. Well, the eyelids are getting heavy and it's not quite 8:30pm yet. I hope you are all doing well and I want to thank you all for subscribing to my blog and for all the positive thoughts and prayers that you send my way.
I'm working on some new note cards that I will be offering for sale on my photo website. Here are a couple of examples.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Tomorrow I go see the surgeon for a follow-up visit to see how I'm doing and healing since surgery. I can't wait to talk to him and tell him about this tendon or what ever that is hurting me so much.
Wednesday I am hoping to do my daughters and her friends senior pictures. They are running out of time to get them in the yearbook, but they keep putting it off. The weather is supposed to be nice and hopefully Chelsea will be feeling better too. She has had a really bad cold the last couple of days.
Thursday I have my pre-chemo doctor visit and blood work done.
Friday I have my LAST chemo treatment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The time has gone by pretty darn fast. I can't wait to see how I will be feeling after not having chemo for a while. I'm hoping all of my aches and pains will go away!! Then I'm sure I'll be complaining to you all about having to drive to town every day for radiation . . . . . we are never happy . . . LOL We have an apple tree by the barn. The apples aren't worth eating but the deer and the horses love them. I got some of the apples the other day and made a trail of them that led into my back yard. I'm hoping to be able to see the deer out my kitchen window. Well today all but 2 of the apples are gone and one of them has a bit out of it. But did I get to see the deer eating them, NO . . .but I know it was the deer that got them cuz', they left deer poop behind. I hope those of you that have signed up to be notified of new post are getting the notice. I did not get a notice after publishing my last post, so I don't know if you did either. If I don't get a notice on this one I may e-mail you all. Well, the eyelids are getting heavy and it's not quite 8:30pm yet. I hope you are all doing well and I want to thank you all for subscribing to my blog and for all the positive thoughts and prayers that you send my way.
I'm working on some new note cards that I will be offering for sale on my photo website. Here are a couple of examples.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Shooting for the Cure . . .my new Online Store
This post is both cancer and photography related. I am not doing the Equine Spirit site anymore. I have changed everything and now I have an Online Store called Shooting for the Cure. This online store is very easy to navigate and easy to order from. The whole purpose of this store is to raise money for breast cancer research. I am going to donate a minimum of 5% of all profits from this store to breast cancer research. So the more people buy, the more I will be able to donate!! I have kept the prices as low as possible to be able to pay for my cost of the items and still have enough to donate some money. Please tell your family and friends all about this store. There are lots of cool products to buy with lots of nice images on them. Christmas is just around the corner and there is something for almost everyone in this store. Here is a sample of some of the products available.
Coffee Cups
Framed Prints
Journals
Tote Bags
Coffee Cups
Framed Prints
Calendars
Shooting for the Cure Items
Journals
Tote Bags
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Stage Three-Bisphosphonate
I did not know there was going to be a friggin' Stage Three!!!!!!!!!!!! I still have one more chemo treatment, next Friday, Oct 3rd. After that I will get a 3 1/2 week rest and then meet with my oncologist and radiologist to discuss my Radiation Therapy. At that time I will learn more about "Stage Three".
I just picked up the information packet and consent form that explains Stage Three. This is all about a Study they are doing for patients who take bisphosphonates after chemo. The study is optional, I don't have to do it, but I don't know what my other choices are yet. I have plenty of time to consider doing this study or not, it just has to be started within 8 weeks of completing chemo. The drug is either given by IV or in pill form. I don't get to choose the method though, the study group chooses that for me. Here is what the info sheet says about
"Why is this study being done?" "This study is investigational and is being done to find out if adding a drug (a bisphosphonate) to hormonal therapy or chemotherapy will help prevent cancer from spreading to the bones or other parts of the body. "Bisphosphonates are a group of drugs that have strong effects on the bones and have been shown to strengthen the bones in many patients who take them."
Well, all of this sounded ok until I got the part about "side effects"!! There are different possible side effects depending on if you get this through an IV or take it in pill form. The possible side effects from the IV method sound a whole lot like the possible side effects from chemo.
I am really struggling with some of the side effects I've had from the chemo. My biggest complaints are fatigue, which is becoming extreme and body/muscle aches, which are getting worse. I think I actually have a form of myalgias, that is a less common side effect of one of the chemo drugs I am taking.
SO, the thought of MORE side effects does not thrill me at all. And here is the kicker . . . . this drug is taken for 3, yes that's 3 years!!!!
I'm attaching a pictures that is a close up of a rose. Wouldn't it be great to be able to climb in, curl up, and have all life's problems disappear!!
Keep Smilin'
Big Hugs,
Wendy
I just picked up the information packet and consent form that explains Stage Three. This is all about a Study they are doing for patients who take bisphosphonates after chemo. The study is optional, I don't have to do it, but I don't know what my other choices are yet. I have plenty of time to consider doing this study or not, it just has to be started within 8 weeks of completing chemo. The drug is either given by IV or in pill form. I don't get to choose the method though, the study group chooses that for me. Here is what the info sheet says about
"Why is this study being done?" "This study is investigational and is being done to find out if adding a drug (a bisphosphonate) to hormonal therapy or chemotherapy will help prevent cancer from spreading to the bones or other parts of the body. "Bisphosphonates are a group of drugs that have strong effects on the bones and have been shown to strengthen the bones in many patients who take them."
Well, all of this sounded ok until I got the part about "side effects"!! There are different possible side effects depending on if you get this through an IV or take it in pill form. The possible side effects from the IV method sound a whole lot like the possible side effects from chemo.
I am really struggling with some of the side effects I've had from the chemo. My biggest complaints are fatigue, which is becoming extreme and body/muscle aches, which are getting worse. I think I actually have a form of myalgias, that is a less common side effect of one of the chemo drugs I am taking.
SO, the thought of MORE side effects does not thrill me at all. And here is the kicker . . . . this drug is taken for 3, yes that's 3 years!!!!
I'm attaching a pictures that is a close up of a rose. Wouldn't it be great to be able to climb in, curl up, and have all life's problems disappear!!
Keep Smilin'
Big Hugs,
Wendy
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Always something NEW and not always good!!
Yesterday was BAD!! For the first time in all of this I got nauseous and threw up!! I woke up, sat up and had an incredible headache. Within a couple of minutes I was heading to the bathroom feeling like I was going to get sick. Well, I did. there was not much there, mostly dry heaves but it was not fun. I was freaking out a little bit, first time to experience this. I was feeling awful but my head was killing me so I took 1 ibuprofen and 1 anti nausea pill and hoped I wouldn't end up throwing them up. I went back to bed and laid their for while. About an hour later I was RUNNING for the toilet again!! Oh man, I thought after all this time that this was just crazy!! Also for the last couple of days my ankles and feet have been swelling up. Also the bone pain from the neulasta shot was throbbing in my pelvic area!!! I was supposed to go to town and get blood test done but I was not feeling like I could make it. I called and left a message for the nurse to call me. Rick came home and I gave him a hug and just started crying. I'm really not liking this crap. He said he'd take me town later, if I needed to go get the blood work done. The nurse called and we talked for a bit. She said it was day 9 and my white blood cell count should be at it's lowest so it would be really good to get the test done if at all possible. It would give them something to work with in case I got any worse feeling. She said to keep track of my temp and if it goes up to call the doctor!! Well, I'm glad to say that I did not get nauseous for the rest of the day :) Today I woke up about 5:30am. I had coffee with Rick and then I went back to bed about 6:30-7am. Next thing I know Rick is in the bedroom checking on me. I finally woke up enough to look at the clock and it was 4pm!!!!!! Oh my goodness, I still can't believe I slept that long and especially since I still feel exhausted. My whole body is sore and kind of tingles. My back hurts, my eyes want to keep closing, I'm weak and I'm also sick and tired of feeling like this!!!!!!
Even though I'm not feeling nauseau any more I am taking my anti nauseaus pills, just to make sure!!
My neighbor lady came over the other day and brought me some roses, a cake and some tomatoes she had grow. People can be so very nice and I thank them dearly!! A couple days later I took the roses outside and took some pictures of them and took some more of my flowers too. So I have some new flower pics to share with you. I hope you enjoy them.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
This is a Bachelor Button with a water color effect
This is a poppy with a rough pastel effect
Even though I'm not feeling nauseau any more I am taking my anti nauseaus pills, just to make sure!!
My neighbor lady came over the other day and brought me some roses, a cake and some tomatoes she had grow. People can be so very nice and I thank them dearly!! A couple days later I took the roses outside and took some pictures of them and took some more of my flowers too. So I have some new flower pics to share with you. I hope you enjoy them.
Keep Smilin'
Wendy
This is a card I'm giving to the neighbor, featuring the roses she gave me.
This is a Bachelor Button with a water color effect
This is a poppy with a rough pastel effect
Friday, September 12, 2008
Sept 12, 2008 day after 5th chemo
Hello everyone,
The set of 3 shots did their job and my white blood cell counts were up where they were supposed to be, so I was able to go ahead with my chemo treatment yesterday.
I had my 5th of 6 chemo treatments yesterday. It was a long day, but all went well. I'm really glad I only have one more of these treatments left. I wanted to ask the doctor how many people ever decide mid way through chemo to not finish it? It just gets tougher as you go and I'm sure there are people out there that just say "no more". I know I had a hard time sitting in that chair for 3 1/2 hours yesterday just waiting for the poisonous chemicals to get from the plastic bags into my veins!! I will be getting the normal Nulasta shot this time, but waiting till Monday to get it to see if it lessens the bone pain any by getting it a few days later.
I watched a little T.V., but had to turn it off because I was watching a movie on Lifetime Movie Network . . . not advisable if you are going through any sort of emotional times in your life!! I had to turn it off before the end of the movie because I didn't want to start crying in the chemo room. I had a good lunch . . . it's great to be there at lunch time, they have good sandwiches and fruit and cookies. The nurses and the volunteers are just wonderful people!!
There was a lady that is a volunteer there and she came to me and brought me an afghan that she had crocheted. It is beautiful and the pattern is called Indian Tears, which I just love. She is part of a group, who's name I can't remember, but they make hats for all the newborn babies at the hospital and they also make these afghans and hats for the chemo patients. She later brought around some crocheted hats and let me choose one to keep.
I'm going to have to think of something special to do for all the people that work in the chemo room. I've seen other patients bring in flowers and food and that sort of thing. Maybe I can give them a framed copy of my Life Poem . . . . I know the ladies in the imaging department loved that when I gave it to them and it's something that they can hang up for everyone to see and hopefully gain some hope and peace from.
I'm also realizing that it's not going be as simple as getting through chemo and then getting through radiation and then it miraculously being over. This is something I'm going to have to live with for the rest of my life. They don't tell you everything all at once, which is a good thing I suppose. It would be way to overwhelming to hear it all in the beginning when you are so new to finding out you have breast cancer. Although the chemo is to kill the cancer, like most things, it has side effects, but what I didn't realize was that some of the side effects can last much longer after the treatment is over.
Once chemo is over I'll get about a 3 1/2 week rest and then I will see my oncologist again and also see my radiation doctor. My oncologist mentioned a drug trial that he wants me to think about doing. The chemo zaps your body of a lot of things and I guess bone density is one of them. I may get some of this wrong so please don't quote me. I'll go over more with my doctor in a future visit. They've been using a drug that helps to build back up the bones and it's been doing very well. They've done most of the test by giving the drug through an IV and now they are testing it in a pill form. I'm sure I will do this test as the results have been very good. This drug I will have to take for 3-1/2 years.
I know there is still so much more to all of this than I am aware of right now. When I am done with all the chemo, radiation, etc., etc., and even if all the cancer is dead and gone, I know I'll have to go get blood test done regularly to check for cancer.
When I start radiation I will have to go to town to the cancer center every day Monday through Friday for 6 weeks. The side effects of radiation, like chemo, can be different for everyone. I have heard several people say that radiation kicked their butt worse than chemo when it came to fatigue. I also saw a gal who is much worse than me and her treatment is much more aggressive, she was at the cancer support group and she showed us the burns (sores) on her skin from the radiation and boy did it look like they hurt!!! Another lady who's treatment was not as aggressive didn't have any burns from her radiation. My treatment won't be that aggressive, so I'll think positive about the side effects.
Well, it's getting late so I'll try to get some sleep. I hope you are all doing well.
Keep Smilin'
Hugs,
Wendy
The set of 3 shots did their job and my white blood cell counts were up where they were supposed to be, so I was able to go ahead with my chemo treatment yesterday.
I had my 5th of 6 chemo treatments yesterday. It was a long day, but all went well. I'm really glad I only have one more of these treatments left. I wanted to ask the doctor how many people ever decide mid way through chemo to not finish it? It just gets tougher as you go and I'm sure there are people out there that just say "no more". I know I had a hard time sitting in that chair for 3 1/2 hours yesterday just waiting for the poisonous chemicals to get from the plastic bags into my veins!! I will be getting the normal Nulasta shot this time, but waiting till Monday to get it to see if it lessens the bone pain any by getting it a few days later.
I watched a little T.V., but had to turn it off because I was watching a movie on Lifetime Movie Network . . . not advisable if you are going through any sort of emotional times in your life!! I had to turn it off before the end of the movie because I didn't want to start crying in the chemo room. I had a good lunch . . . it's great to be there at lunch time, they have good sandwiches and fruit and cookies. The nurses and the volunteers are just wonderful people!!
There was a lady that is a volunteer there and she came to me and brought me an afghan that she had crocheted. It is beautiful and the pattern is called Indian Tears, which I just love. She is part of a group, who's name I can't remember, but they make hats for all the newborn babies at the hospital and they also make these afghans and hats for the chemo patients. She later brought around some crocheted hats and let me choose one to keep.
I'm going to have to think of something special to do for all the people that work in the chemo room. I've seen other patients bring in flowers and food and that sort of thing. Maybe I can give them a framed copy of my Life Poem . . . . I know the ladies in the imaging department loved that when I gave it to them and it's something that they can hang up for everyone to see and hopefully gain some hope and peace from.
I'm also realizing that it's not going be as simple as getting through chemo and then getting through radiation and then it miraculously being over. This is something I'm going to have to live with for the rest of my life. They don't tell you everything all at once, which is a good thing I suppose. It would be way to overwhelming to hear it all in the beginning when you are so new to finding out you have breast cancer. Although the chemo is to kill the cancer, like most things, it has side effects, but what I didn't realize was that some of the side effects can last much longer after the treatment is over.
Once chemo is over I'll get about a 3 1/2 week rest and then I will see my oncologist again and also see my radiation doctor. My oncologist mentioned a drug trial that he wants me to think about doing. The chemo zaps your body of a lot of things and I guess bone density is one of them. I may get some of this wrong so please don't quote me. I'll go over more with my doctor in a future visit. They've been using a drug that helps to build back up the bones and it's been doing very well. They've done most of the test by giving the drug through an IV and now they are testing it in a pill form. I'm sure I will do this test as the results have been very good. This drug I will have to take for 3-1/2 years.
I know there is still so much more to all of this than I am aware of right now. When I am done with all the chemo, radiation, etc., etc., and even if all the cancer is dead and gone, I know I'll have to go get blood test done regularly to check for cancer.
When I start radiation I will have to go to town to the cancer center every day Monday through Friday for 6 weeks. The side effects of radiation, like chemo, can be different for everyone. I have heard several people say that radiation kicked their butt worse than chemo when it came to fatigue. I also saw a gal who is much worse than me and her treatment is much more aggressive, she was at the cancer support group and she showed us the burns (sores) on her skin from the radiation and boy did it look like they hurt!!! Another lady who's treatment was not as aggressive didn't have any burns from her radiation. My treatment won't be that aggressive, so I'll think positive about the side effects.
Well, it's getting late so I'll try to get some sleep. I hope you are all doing well.
Keep Smilin'
Hugs,
Wendy
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Wednesday, Sept 3rd
Hi Everyone,
This last week has been a busy one, so I haven't really had time to write. Several things that I want to mention. First, I want to clarify, in case there was a misunderstanding with the way I worded it. When I got my MRI results back and said there was no cancer, I should have said, No Additional Cancer. The MRI was for my lower back where I've been having some pain and the doctor wanted to make sure the cancer had not spread to that area. The good new was that it had NOT spread. But what is causing my back pain is that I have degenerative disc disease. I saw my primary doctor today and she went over the MRI results with me. Of course the wording is kind of greek to me, but there are a few problems with my lower back. My doctor is sending the report to a back specialist to see if there is something that needs to be done at this time or in the near future. So, the bottom line is that she read me the report and we know what it says, but we really don't know what it means!! I will let you all know more as soon as I hear anything.
OK, now for the cancer stuff. I believe I mentioned that I did not get the nulasta shot after my last chemo treatment. The nulasta shot causes my body to produce more white blood cells, since the chemo zaps them and this is not good. The shot was causing me a lot of pain and my white blood count had been very, very good so the doctor thought we'd try it without the shot and see what happens. Because I didn't have the shot I had to go in for blood test on day 9 after chemo to check these white blood cell counts. Well that was last Friday and I didn't hear anything so I figured all was OK. Well, they called me today and said that my white blood cell count was very low on Friday and they wanted me re-tested today to see if it's improved or not. I got a call this afternoon and NO, they have not improved, they are still very low. So I had to go back in and get a shot. Although it causes my body to produce more white blood cells, it is different than the Nulasta shot that I did not get. AND I have to have 3 of these shots, 1 each day for 3 days!!! I think next time I'll just get the nulasta shot!!
I do hope the shots work because if my counts are down they will not do my next chemo treatment, which just prolongs everything. Also, if it gets too bad and doesn't improve, they could do a blood transfusion. I will of course keep you posted as things happen.
As I mentioned above, this has been a busy week. Last Sunday, Aug. 31st was my nieces and step-son's birthday. My sister put together a joint birthday party at her house. The theme was Super Hero's and some folks dressed up. It turned out really nice and everyone had a BLAST!! Donna, thank you again for doing all of that!!!!! Then on Tuesday school started, so we spent the last week getting the kids ready for that. The first couple of days have gone well for both of them!!
Here are a couple of pictures of 2 different rose's at my mom's house. They are so pretty. I don't have roses in my yard yet, but next year I will plant some.
Keep Smilin'
Hugs,
Wendy
Monday, August 25, 2008
Monday, Day 5 after 4th chemo
I heard from the doctor late on Friday about my MRI. The good news is that they did NOT find any cancer or anything like that. The bad news is that I have Disc Disease and need to see my regular doctor for that. That's all I know right now until I see my other doctor . . . oh the joys!!!!!
Friday, August 22, 2008
4 down, 2 to go
I had my 4th chemo treatment yesterday. It was a very long day. I got to the cancer center at 11am for blood work, then a visit with the doctor, who was running very late, so chemo ran late and then I had to get an MRI done on my lower back. I didn't get home until 7pm!!
One thing the doc is doing different this time is he's not having me take the Nulasta Shot like usual. My white blood counts have been really good and he wants to see if it makes a difference in the bone pain I've been having after each treament. So hopefully I won't be in bed for 3 days feeling like total crud like before. But I will really have to monitor my temperature and see the doctor in the next week or so to have blood test to make sure my white blood count doesn't drop too much since I'm not getting the shot.
I am pretty pooped today. The effects of the chemo do get stronger with each treatment and seem to hit sooner each time. By last night my coffee was already tasting like crap!!
I talked to a lady in the waiting room yesterday. She was really nice and we started talking about the hair loss stuff. She is done with chemo and her hair has grown back, etc. I still have my eyebrows which is a really cool thing because people look really weird without eyebrows!! But I started out with really thick eyebrows and although they are still there, they are thinner. This lady told me yesterday that she had her eyebrows up until her 6th and last chemo treatment and then they fell out!!! GREAT!! Oh well, I'll just try to be happy that I don't have to shave my pits or legs for a while.
My chemo brain must be kicking in because I just went back and corrected about 10 typos in the above stuff and that's just not like me. So if something sounds weird because I typed it wrong or left out a word, please try to understand!!
Ok, time for a nap, or least I hope so. I'm finding out that steroids I'm taking not only make it hard for me to sleep sometimes, they are also the cause or possible cause of many other not so fun symptoms I am having. BUT, I'm not having a problem with nausea and vomiting which are my 2 least favorite things in the world, so they are working in that respect,so I'll try again not to complain too much. To clarify, if needed, the steroids are in the anti-nausea drugs that I take.
Keeping a positive attitude, like most other things is getting harder with each chemo treatment. But, I'm hanging in there and trying my best to keep my head up and remind myself that this is only temporary, this is only temporary!! Oh yeah, I talked to the nurse about the increadibly emotional days I've been having after chemo and she said that can also be caused by the STEROIDS!!! It's good to know that I'm not just going nuts, there is a reason for it, which helps just a little bit. But dang it's hard to get through those days, emotions can be so overwhelming, as well as very draining!!
OK, I'm going to hit the bed now and try to get some rest. I hope you are all doing well and that you are able to fully enjoy the upcoming weekend. This will be the first year in many that I won't be attending our local county fair . . . that's kind of hard for me to even think about, as it's been a pretty big part of my photography and life for the last few years. Oh well, who knows, maybe I'll get a burst of energy and head over there for a little bit . . . . . there is always wishful thinking!!
Keep Smilin'
Hugs,
Wendy
One thing the doc is doing different this time is he's not having me take the Nulasta Shot like usual. My white blood counts have been really good and he wants to see if it makes a difference in the bone pain I've been having after each treament. So hopefully I won't be in bed for 3 days feeling like total crud like before. But I will really have to monitor my temperature and see the doctor in the next week or so to have blood test to make sure my white blood count doesn't drop too much since I'm not getting the shot.
I am pretty pooped today. The effects of the chemo do get stronger with each treatment and seem to hit sooner each time. By last night my coffee was already tasting like crap!!
I talked to a lady in the waiting room yesterday. She was really nice and we started talking about the hair loss stuff. She is done with chemo and her hair has grown back, etc. I still have my eyebrows which is a really cool thing because people look really weird without eyebrows!! But I started out with really thick eyebrows and although they are still there, they are thinner. This lady told me yesterday that she had her eyebrows up until her 6th and last chemo treatment and then they fell out!!! GREAT!! Oh well, I'll just try to be happy that I don't have to shave my pits or legs for a while.
My chemo brain must be kicking in because I just went back and corrected about 10 typos in the above stuff and that's just not like me. So if something sounds weird because I typed it wrong or left out a word, please try to understand!!
Ok, time for a nap, or least I hope so. I'm finding out that steroids I'm taking not only make it hard for me to sleep sometimes, they are also the cause or possible cause of many other not so fun symptoms I am having. BUT, I'm not having a problem with nausea and vomiting which are my 2 least favorite things in the world, so they are working in that respect,so I'll try again not to complain too much. To clarify, if needed, the steroids are in the anti-nausea drugs that I take.
Keeping a positive attitude, like most other things is getting harder with each chemo treatment. But, I'm hanging in there and trying my best to keep my head up and remind myself that this is only temporary, this is only temporary!! Oh yeah, I talked to the nurse about the increadibly emotional days I've been having after chemo and she said that can also be caused by the STEROIDS!!! It's good to know that I'm not just going nuts, there is a reason for it, which helps just a little bit. But dang it's hard to get through those days, emotions can be so overwhelming, as well as very draining!!
OK, I'm going to hit the bed now and try to get some rest. I hope you are all doing well and that you are able to fully enjoy the upcoming weekend. This will be the first year in many that I won't be attending our local county fair . . . that's kind of hard for me to even think about, as it's been a pretty big part of my photography and life for the last few years. Oh well, who knows, maybe I'll get a burst of energy and head over there for a little bit . . . . . there is always wishful thinking!!
Keep Smilin'
Hugs,
Wendy
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Rough Day Today
I'm getting to where I am really not liking this at ALL. I know it's temporary and it's for the best and it will be over at some point, but right now I'm not liking it!! I've been feeling OK, but last night my back/pelvic/hips area started aching so bad I could not get comfortable and it took for ever to get to sleep!! Today I was very exhausted and my back was killing me. It doesn't hurt if I do anything particular, it just hurts constantly. A deep, ache that also goes down the back of my legs.
Anyway, I called the doctor and he gave me some pain pills and a muscle relaxer that I need insurance approval for, so it will be a couple days before I get that. Thank goodness the pain pills are working!!!!!! My back feels so much better and I hope I'll sleep tonight and be able to function somewhat tomorrow!!
The doctor doesn't just want to treat the pain I'm having but he wants to try and find out what is causing it. The scheduling lady is supposed to call me to set up an appointment for an MRI to check things out.
I am feeling a bit useless these days as I'm not able to accomplish much and at the same time I have very little ambition. I'm bored but lack the energy and/or desire to do much. It's a viscous cycle!!
Here is another photo or two that I will leave you with.
Keep Smilin'
Hugs,
Wendy
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Quick notes & pictures
Hello everyone,
Well, not a whole lot going on so far this week. I've been feeling ok . . . . not great, but not too bad either, so it's been nice.
I did not sleep last night and it was about 6am before I went back to bed and finally got some sleep. But I'm not sure if it was enough because now I feel like I need a nap and I've only been up for a couple hours.
Our county fair starts next week. I've been the photographer for that for the last couple of years and just about live at the fairgrounds for 5 days. But of course I won't be doing that this year. BUT, the Friday of the fair there is a rodeo and it's Tough Enough to Wear Pink day. They will have breast cancer survivors riding in a wagon pulled by draft horses with Smokey the Bear and I have been asked if I would like to ride in the wagon!! I have chemo on Thursday, the day before, so I think I would be able to do this since I don't usually start feeling bad for a couple of days, so I think this could be really fun.
Since I was up early this morning, cuz' I never went to sleep, I went out and there was another deer under the apple tree. I was able to get my camera a take some photos. Although these images look like it was pretty light out, it was still a little dark and I was shoot over a 6ft chain link fence. Because of a little camera shake I got the below image which I think looks like an artsy painting and I totally LOVE it. I think you can click on it for a larger view.
Well, not a whole lot going on so far this week. I've been feeling ok . . . . not great, but not too bad either, so it's been nice.
I did not sleep last night and it was about 6am before I went back to bed and finally got some sleep. But I'm not sure if it was enough because now I feel like I need a nap and I've only been up for a couple hours.
Our county fair starts next week. I've been the photographer for that for the last couple of years and just about live at the fairgrounds for 5 days. But of course I won't be doing that this year. BUT, the Friday of the fair there is a rodeo and it's Tough Enough to Wear Pink day. They will have breast cancer survivors riding in a wagon pulled by draft horses with Smokey the Bear and I have been asked if I would like to ride in the wagon!! I have chemo on Thursday, the day before, so I think I would be able to do this since I don't usually start feeling bad for a couple of days, so I think this could be really fun.
Since I was up early this morning, cuz' I never went to sleep, I went out and there was another deer under the apple tree. I was able to get my camera a take some photos. Although these images look like it was pretty light out, it was still a little dark and I was shoot over a 6ft chain link fence. Because of a little camera shake I got the below image which I think looks like an artsy painting and I totally LOVE it. I think you can click on it for a larger view.
While taking pics of the deer Spooky and Cowboy had to come over and visit me at the fence. Then they started scratching each other!!
Friday, August 8, 2008
Made it through another week!!
Well, it's very late Thursday or actually very early Friday morning . . . about 1AM. I'm having trouble sleeping again and have to wonder if its because for 3-4 days after chemo that's about all I did . . . I slept more than ever before.
This last week has been a lot like the others after chemo. The body aches kick in and I don't do much but rest and/or sleep . . . like I said above . . . . I slept a lot this time. My mouth got bad again, so I took the lozenges . . . but they haven't seemed to help as much as before. I also got a yeast infection this time and I have another small but painful cyst on my pantie line area!!
My mom came over yesterday and she gave me the most wonderful foot rub . . . .Thank you mom!!!
I did sleep in this morning but no nap today. I spent hours cleaning my office which was a major undertaking!! I've also been really busy making changes to my other website . . . http://www.theequinespirit.com/ Please check it out :) And think about it when it's time to start shopping for Christmas . .or someones birthday . . . . or anniversary . . . or if you just want a little something special for yourself. 10% of all proceeds from sales on that site will be donated to breast cancer research!!
Wednesday morning I was up really early . . . after it got light out I went outside for a minute. I looked and there was a deer in with my horses. I stood real still and just watched it for a while. It went through the fence to an apple tree that is close by and I watched as this deer kept getting up on his hind legs and taking apples from the tree!! I just couldn't stand it anymore so I went inside to get my camera . . . . well when I got back out there the deer was gone!!!! Since I had my camera and wanted to wait a bit in case the deer came back, I took some pictures of my flowers. Here are a couple that I think look really pretty and wanted to share them with you all.
Keep Smilin'
Hugs,
Wendy
This last week has been a lot like the others after chemo. The body aches kick in and I don't do much but rest and/or sleep . . . like I said above . . . . I slept a lot this time. My mouth got bad again, so I took the lozenges . . . but they haven't seemed to help as much as before. I also got a yeast infection this time and I have another small but painful cyst on my pantie line area!!
My mom came over yesterday and she gave me the most wonderful foot rub . . . .Thank you mom!!!
I did sleep in this morning but no nap today. I spent hours cleaning my office which was a major undertaking!! I've also been really busy making changes to my other website . . . http://www.theequinespirit.com/ Please check it out :) And think about it when it's time to start shopping for Christmas . .or someones birthday . . . . or anniversary . . . or if you just want a little something special for yourself. 10% of all proceeds from sales on that site will be donated to breast cancer research!!
Wednesday morning I was up really early . . . after it got light out I went outside for a minute. I looked and there was a deer in with my horses. I stood real still and just watched it for a while. It went through the fence to an apple tree that is close by and I watched as this deer kept getting up on his hind legs and taking apples from the tree!! I just couldn't stand it anymore so I went inside to get my camera . . . . well when I got back out there the deer was gone!!!! Since I had my camera and wanted to wait a bit in case the deer came back, I took some pictures of my flowers. Here are a couple that I think look really pretty and wanted to share them with you all.
Keep Smilin'
Hugs,
Wendy
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