Cancer can happen, to any of us!

**Diane4145** · 02-07-2011, 12:34 PM

Hi everyone!

I had a heart stress and echo test today, to get cardiac clearance for surgery! Last Friday, I got the great news that I have no cancer, anywhere else in my body! That, was scary! Since I have heart blockage and a total cholesterol of 417, my cardiologist has to give me clearance! Can't imagine, why!lol Things are coming along and I hope to have a surgery date, soon! I'll keep you posted, soon! Brenda, I'm sorry that I haven't been in touch sooner, but, promise I will! I don't understand why anyone could have ANY issues with you, your postings, etc..! You are one of the kindest, most sincere and genuine people, that I've ever known! If you were not on Sowal, it would be our loss! Luv u, Brenda!

**heartbren** · 02-08-2011, 12:09 PM

Hey Diane! Glad to see you on here again and thank you for the nice words. I'm still having trouble getting on here. It just takes a lot of time and patience and eventually I can get through. I'm so glad thinkgs are moving along for you and look forward to talking to you again soon. I think of you often and sending positive thoughts your way. One day when you are feeling up to it I'd love to bring my little baby (my chihuahua, Tye) and come visit you and meet you in person. If you are up to it perhaps I could take you to lunch. Call me when you feel like it and of course we will do it only if the weather is cooperating. Don't want you going out in this dreary stuff we keep having these days. It goes right through you to your bones. Once again, I am so glad I could help in some way and make things a little easier for you. I am still here anytime you need to talk or need a little support in any way. Love to you, Brenda

**Diane4145** · 02-19-2011, 10:09 PM

Hi everyone!

I'm here in Sowal @ Gravel Road & lovin it! I didn't know that I was coming, kinda last minute! Went to Seaside tonight with Blake & my adorable grandson, Jake! I'd never heard Dread Clampett and it was a blast!
For everone that's wondering about my cancer stuff, it's still going! I have another surgery next Wed. And treatment starts, afterwards! I'll be in town till Monday and hope everone has a great holiday weekend! If you're looking for a great brunch on Sunday, maybe I'll see you at Gravel Road! My son, Russ, will take great care of you, too! Brenda, hope to see you, before heading back to AL, on Monday!

**SWGB** · 02-19-2011, 10:39 PM

Originally Posted by zip3

My thoughts and prayers are with you. Doctors and medicine today are really on top of breast cancer . My sister had breast cancer with lymph nodes affected 6 years ago and she has been cancer free. Just think about a double mastectomy as your chance to get reconstructive surgery and go large and fabulous. If you need any help then please pm me.

This is probably the most sexist misogynistic crap I've ever heard. I'll bet you're the type that would tell a victim of incest rape they should delight in the resulting pregnancy. I believe there's a cave with your name on it calling.

**sunspotbaby** · 02-20-2011, 08:45 AM

Originally Posted by SWGB

This is probably the most sexist misogynistic crap I've ever heard. I'll bet you're the type that would tell a victim of incest rape they should delight in the resulting pregnancy. I believe there's a cave with your name on it calling.

or we could keep this thread about Diane...

**heartbren** · 02-21-2011, 08:37 AM

Originally Posted by SWGB

This is probably the most sexist misogynistic crap I've ever heard. I'll bet you're the type that would tell a victim of incest rape they should delight in the resulting pregnancy. I believe there's a cave with your name on it calling.

Yes, I thought this thread was about Diane's problem and not other people's opinions to it. Let's be nice. Everyone has their opinion and different situations they have experienced. Does not mean it is for everyone, but I don't believe in insulting others with their opinion especially when the focus is Diane and her problem. I think it would be so much better if people would keep derogatory comments to themselves. This thread should be of more of a positive nature and not to comment on other people's posts. Oh boy, I'll probably here it myself now.

**heartbren** · 02-21-2011, 08:40 AM

Originally Posted by Diane4145

Hi everyone!

I'm here in Sowal @ Gravel Road & lovin it! I didn't know that I was coming, kinda last minute! Went to Seaside tonight with Blake & my adorable grandson, Jake! I'd never heard Dread Clampett and it was a blast!
For everone that's wondering about my cancer stuff, it's still going! I have another surgery next Wed. And treatment starts, afterwards! I'll be in town till Monday and hope everone has a great holiday weekend! If you're looking for a great brunch on Sunday, maybe I'll see you at Gravel Road! My son, Russ, will take great care of you, too! Brenda, hope to see you, before heading back to AL, on Monday!

Diane, I am just seeing this mail from you. I wish I had known sooner. Had you called I would have been sure to meet up with you. It was a perfect opportunity. I am so sorry I missed you, but I am so glad you were here and had such a good time. You sure did need it. As always, thinking of you and it is always good to hear from you and how you are doing.

**groveral** · 02-21-2011, 10:17 PM

Originally Posted by Diane4145

After a nice cry, I feel better!

The effort to make these comments, is so very much appreciated and beneficial! I'm a very strong and independent person, so getting this diagnosis, has been an experience! I've had people to ask me, "how can you seem so optimistic and calm"? I have several responses, for this. #1. My faith!God has a plan and he will give me the grace and strength, for what may come. #2. My family! I have two wonderful sons and an adorable grandson, to share many amazing years and experiences to come! #3. My future. I have way too much ability, experience and potential, to sit back and die! I know that I make a difference, in whatever I chose to! #4. Helping our furry, friends! The sooner I get on my feet, I'll be able go back to helping animals! I promise to keep you all posted, as I get more information!

Diane, I don't know you but am compelled to let you know I am praying for you. Depend on God and he will see you through this situation. Your strength and courage are obvious. Put them together with trust in God, which you are doing, and I think you are prepared.

May God richly bless you.

**Minnie** · 02-23-2011, 03:55 PM

Originally Posted by Diane4145

Hi everyone!

I'm here in Sowal @ Gravel Road & lovin it! I didn't know that I was coming, kinda last minute! Went to Seaside tonight with Blake & my adorable grandson, Jake! I'd never heard Dread Clampett and it was a blast!
For everone that's wondering about my cancer stuff, it's still going! I have another surgery next Wed. And treatment starts, afterwards! I'll be in town till Monday and hope everone has a great holiday weekend! If you're looking for a great brunch on Sunday, maybe I'll see you at Gravel Road! My son, Russ, will take great care of you, too! Brenda, hope to see you, before heading back to AL, on Monday!

Glad to hear you were able to get a trip to the beach, nothing better to help one get rested. Plus nothing is better than a visit with your son and grandson.

Take care and keep us informed.

**Diane4145** · 03-04-2011, 09:20 PM

Hi everyone,

Thought I'd give ya a quick update, on my day after surgery! This cancer thing has been a very frustrating and lengthy process, but, my prognosis is great! Even though there are multiple surgeries involved, I realize that I'm very fortunate, that my breast cancer was very early! I had surgery yesterday in a Mobile hospital, which is all about Mardi Gra! As I was getting ready to go in to surgery, a parade with music, candy and beads thrown, filled the hall ways! It was a great way to lift spirits, for sure! I have a long road ahead, but, I'm facing it with much gratitude and excitement for the future! I plan to be around a long time, for building wonderful memories with my sons and adorable grandson, Jake! I'll keep you all posted and continue to really appreciate your thoughts and prayers!

**heartbren** · 03-10-2011, 09:30 AM

I spoke to Diane yesterday and she is in very good spirits for someone in her situation. She has no internet access unless she goes to the library, etc. She described what she is going through to me and boy does it sound like a terrible siuation to go through. She said to tell everyone thanks for your thoughts and prayers. She is very determined to beat this thing and with her attitude and strength she may very well do so. I talk to her every so often and if she has not been around a computer she asks me to post a little something for her. After this she has to undergo another surgery on the other side. I cannot even imagine. If anyone has anything they want me to tell her, let me know since she cannot check the internet and I can. Thanks from Diane for everyone's support.

**Diane4145** · 03-28-2011, 10:26 AM

I'm at hospital waiting on surgery for port, to be out in! I met with my new oncologist last Mon. And am looking at a long haul! I'll have Taxol chemotherapy, herceptin & a few other meds, for 4-5 mos! Then, I'll continue herceptin for remainder of, one yr! I'm thankful to have early breast cancer(stage 1), but, it is most aggressive grade 3! I had surgery 25 days ago & still have a drainage tube! Things we take for granted, getting around, being pain free & showering, without tubes! I'm tired & spent, but, very thankful that my prognosis, is good! In about 5 mos I'll have my 2nd, of a total of 3 surgeries! Thank you all for your thoughts & prayers and I'll keep you posted!

**Diane4145** · 03-28-2011, 10:29 AM

Oops, meant to say port, "put in"!:-)

**Teresa** · 03-29-2011, 06:09 PM

we're thinking of you Diane! you are sweet to keep us posted here on SoWal. Take care of yourself and hang in there - we don't know what you must be going through but I can only imagine the difficulty and seemingly never-ending time it will take to get through it all. You have such a positive attitude and that's going to help so much!

**Alicia Leonard** · 03-29-2011, 06:46 PM

God bless you sweetie and stay tough. We will be sending positive thoughts your way!

**Diane4145** · 04-06-2011, 12:57 PM

I realize that some of what I post, may seem like "too much info"! Sorry if it bothers anyone, but, I'm open book and if sharing my experience will heighten breast cancer awareness, I'll do just that! YEA!!! Another year of updates, to go! I got my last drainage tube out a few days ago, 31 days after surgery! Free at last and it's wonderful! Now, for the real fun, chemo!Just started today and it's a breeze! Anticipatioin with uncertainty, was the worst part! I don't know what I'd do, without my mom being here for me! I'm getting sleepy from the Benedril given, to minimize reaction! I'll also post some pics, soon! I'll keep you all updated, with the fun!

Diane

**Minnie** · 04-06-2011, 11:05 PM

Good to hear from you and wishing you the best.

**Diane4145** · 04-08-2011, 01:58 PM

Two days out from 1st chemo starting to have a few expected side effects! Yday, I only experienced a little flushing and redness in my face. Tday, I've had a headache and achiness, which I'm told is due to the steroids, leaving my body!:-(
supposedly, I can expect to be down for the weekend, maybe I'll be the exception!lol I go every Wed. and will keep you all, posted!

**Andy A** · 04-08-2011, 03:40 PM

As many of you know, my wife, Betty has been battling Renal Cell Carcinoma for over four years and has lost one kidney. Her prognosis has been consistent and through several medications she has remained relatively stable.
Last Wednesday, she had a CT scan and we were really wondering what the results would be. She had been put on a new medication on our last trip to M.D. Anderson in January. It is very new and expensive so there was very little data available about its effect on patients.
We could not be more pleased. Here is a quote from the CT scan notes. " The mass in the left renal fassa adjacent...to the left diaphram on the previous study is no longer appreciated indicating a very favorable response to therapy...no new masses were identified. Her brain scan was clear as well and the small tumors that had spread to her lungs had not increased in size. For us, great news, and we both thanked God for looking after her.

**Lynnie** · 04-08-2011, 04:22 PM

Originally Posted by Diane4145

Two days out from 1st chemo starting to have a few expected side effects! Yday, I only experienced a little flushing and redness in my face. Tday, I've had a headache and achiness, which I'm told is due to the steroids, leaving my body!:-(
supposedly, I can expect to be down for the weekend, maybe I'll be the exception!lol I go every Wed. and will keep you all, posted!

I so hope the treatment is successful for you with little to no side effects going forward!! You are in my thoughts and prayers!!

Originally Posted by Andy A

As many of you know, my wife, Betty has been battling Renal Cell Carcinoma for over four years and has lost one kidney. Her prognosis has been consistent and through several medications she has remained relatively stable.
Last Wednesday, she had a CT scan and we were really wondering what the results would be. She had been put on a new medication on our last trip to M.D. Anderson in January. It is very new and expensive so there was very little data available about its effect on patients.
We could not be more pleased. Here is a quote from the CT scan notes. " The mass in the left renal fassa adjacent...to the left diaphram on the previous study is no longer appreciated indicating a very favorable response to therapy...no new masses were identified. Her brain scan was clear as well and the small tumors that had spread to her lungs had not increased in size. For us, great news, and we both thanked God for looking after her.

Great news, Andy!! Thank you for sharing!!

**Sheila** · 04-08-2011, 08:33 PM

Originally Posted by Andy A

As many of you know, my wife, Betty has been battling Renal Cell Carcinoma for over four years and has lost one kidney. Her prognosis has been consistent and through several medications she has remained relatively stable.
Last Wednesday, she had a CT scan and we were really wondering what the results would be. She had been put on a new medication on our last trip to M.D. Anderson in January. It is very new and expensive so there was very little data available about its effect on patients.
We could not be more pleased. Here is a quote from the CT scan notes. " The mass in the left renal fassa adjacent...to the left diaphram on the previous study is no longer appreciated indicating a very favorable response to therapy...no new masses were identified. Her brain scan was clear as well and the small tumors that had spread to her lungs had not increased in size. For us, great news, and we both thanked God for looking after her.

This is most excellent news for both of you!

**heartbren** · 04-10-2011, 12:49 AM

Originally Posted by Diane4145

Two days out from 1st chemo starting to have a few expected side effects! Yday, I only experienced a little flushing and redness in my face. Tday, I've had a headache and achiness, which I'm told is due to the steroids, leaving my body!:-(
supposedly, I can expect to be down for the weekend, maybe I'll be the exception!lol I go every Wed. and will keep you all, posted!

Hi Diane! I am so glad to hear that you are doing well and not feeling really sick from that chemo. I am sorry I have not written lately. I've been going through some things and have been trying to figure it all out. I'm still trying to get the house finished without my cleaning people disappearing on me after they are here a wile or having to fire them for stealing. I need some help with organizing what is left to do. You sound pretty good, but I know it is a hard process and a painful one. You inspire me with your upbeat attitude and whenever I thnk I have problems, I think about you and realize how easy my life is. Give me a call or I'll give you a call soon. I won't be such a stranger. Big hug, Brenda

**jensieblue** · 04-10-2011, 07:28 AM

Bless you all and keep the faith...I am 2 years out from cancer diagnosis and cancer free. Cancer is a gnarly and evil disease but it can be beaten. Know I will be sending good thoughts toward the coast for all of you....Jennie

**Diane4145** · 04-13-2011, 03:09 PM

I'm so happy for you all, Andy!

I'm early in to my treatment, in fact I'm getting my 2nd, as I write! I'm expecting to be bald in about a week and am not feeling so energetic, these days! Not a bad view to get chemo, huh?lol I have a flat screen TV/DVD/ INTERNET & games, to kill my time! It's like being at a spa, but, with meds!lol On a good note, talk about surprising results... I had blood work done on Mon to ck my cholesterol, since mine was 417 in Feb! After being on 40mgs of Crestor daily, mine dropped to 187! It has never been, below 235! Dad died at 40 and sister at 50, kinda scarry! I already have 30% blockage in a right artery, too! All of my cardiac testing looks really well, so that's one less thing to stress about! I will keep everyone posted, to re:this cancer thing! Name: DIANE'S 1ST CHEMO.jpg
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Diane

Originally Posted by Sheila

This is most excellent news for both of you!

**middlesister** · 04-13-2011, 06:56 PM

Your little pup was beautiful. You were lucky to be together all those years. How are you doing? Be strong, hang tough, you will see a day when you won't think of the word cancer! Love and strength to you.

**Andy A** · 04-14-2011, 11:50 AM

Originally Posted by Diane4145

I'm so happy for you all, Andy!

I'm early in to my treatment, in fact I'm getting my 2nd, as I write! I'm expecting to be bald in about a week and am not feeling so energetic, these days! Not a bad view to get chemo, huh?lol I have a flat screen TV/DVD/ INTERNET & games, to kill my time! It's like being at a spa, but, with meds!lol On a good note, talk about surprising results... I had blood work done on Mon to ck my cholesterol, since mine was 417 in Feb! After being on 40mgs of Crestor daily, mine dropped to 187! It has never been, below 235! Dad died at 40 and sister at 50, kinda scarry! I already have 30% blockage in a right artery, too! All of my cardiac testing looks really well, so that's one less thing to stress about! I will keep everyone posted, to re:this cancer thing! Name: DIANE'S 1ST CHEMO.jpg
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Diane

Hang in there! It is quite possible you will not lose your hair. Betty has been on four types of medication including IV chemotherapy and hasn't lost her hair. Observing Betty, it has been amazing to me what a human being can do when they set their mind to it. Having a good attitude defies substitution.

**Teresa** · 04-14-2011, 10:22 PM

Originally Posted by Andy A

As many of you know, my wife, Betty has been battling Renal Cell Carcinoma for over four years and has lost one kidney. Her prognosis has been consistent and through several medications she has remained relatively stable.
Last Wednesday, she had a CT scan and we were really wondering what the results would be. She had been put on a new medication on our last trip to M.D. Anderson in January. It is very new and expensive so there was very little data available about its effect on patients.
We could not be more pleased. Here is a quote from the CT scan notes. " The mass in the left renal fassa adjacent...to the left diaphram on the previous study is no longer appreciated indicating a very favorable response to therapy...no new masses were identified. Her brain scan was clear as well and the small tumors that had spread to her lungs had not increased in size. For us, great news, and we both thanked God for looking after her.

sounds like you two have been through much. thanks for sharing with us, and I'm hoping and praying for all good news for Betty.

Originally Posted by Diane4145

I'm so happy for you all, Andy!

I'm early in to my treatment, in fact I'm getting my 2nd, as I write! I'm expecting to be bald in about a week and am not feeling so energetic, these days! Not a bad view to get chemo, huh?lol I have a flat screen TV/DVD/ INTERNET & games, to kill my time! It's like being at a spa, but, with meds!lol On a good note, talk about surprising results... I had blood work done on Mon to ck my cholesterol, since mine was 417 in Feb! After being on 40mgs of Crestor daily, mine dropped to 187! It has never been, below 235! Dad died at 40 and sister at 50, kinda scarry! I already have 30% blockage in a right artery, too! All of my cardiac testing looks really well, so that's one less thing to stress about! I will keep everyone posted, to re:this cancer thing! Name: DIANE'S 1ST CHEMO.jpg
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Diane

Diane - you have such a wonderful outlook! I am inspired. We are thinking of you and praying for a complete recovery.

**heartbren** · 04-15-2011, 09:23 AM

Hi Diane! I really need to call you. Life has been a little off lately. Nothing awful, just keep getting sick from the pollen or whatever is in the air here. I feel guilty when I get upset because I keep getting sick over and over again. It is nothing compared with what you are dealing with and you have such a great attitude about. I'm glad I read this this morning and it was nice to see a picture of you. We are friends and have spoken and writte many times, but I would not have known you if I passed you on the sidewalk. I am so glad to hear about your chlorestoral level going down. There is a good side to everything although it is not the best way to get it down I know.

I am going to be pretty busy today. I'm actually doing some part time work which is good. I'll explain it to you when I talk to you. Keep up the good attitude, it looks good on you. I will talk to you soon, Brenda

**Diane4145** · 04-20-2011, 12:29 PM

Hi everyone! I'm getting my 3rd chemo as I write and still have my hair!lol I bought some clippers, but, can't go there yet! My Dr said that I'd be bald by 3rd treatment, not yet! Maybe, I'm the exception! I'm tryin to upload a pic, must be too drunk from Benedryl!lol

**bluecat** · 04-20-2011, 03:30 PM

Don't be hasty with the clippers. My Mother had chemo and her hair was beautiful , never lost any hair. Hang in there, you're going to beat this thing.

**Diane4145** · 04-27-2011, 03:29 PM

Thank you, bluecat, for your comment! ‎My Oncologist told me today, that with the treatment I'm getting, majority lose their's, by now! I can't color my hair and the girl's got a little grey, at the temples!lol The stress of watching it come out, may be worse than a buz cut! 4th chemo's going well, as I write this! Except for the Benadryl groginess, which I'm not fond of! No danger of me ever abusing alcohol, or drugs!lol I'll be getting chemo till August, but, will continue getting Herceptin for a yr! For the last month I've been getting Taxol and Herceptin, along with Prednisone (hate the extra weight it brings!) and a weekly Benadryl drunk! They give me this to prevent, an allergic reaction! In June, I'll start Epirubicin, Cytoxan and 5FU, (otherwise known as Flouraroracile) every three weeks, x 3-4 cycles! I've said that I intend to post my experience and pics, though they'll sometimes be scarry! I'll keep you all updated, I'm a little too groggy now! Thank you all for your comments and encouragement, they really help!

Diane

**heartbren** · 04-30-2011, 02:59 PM

Hi Diane! I was just reading your post and I am glad things are not going very badly with this chemo. My mother never lost her haid either. I'm sorry I have not been in contact. I've been going through some stuff that I really need to resolve so I can get back to who I used to be. I just spend a lot of time alone these days; not totally - I have my dog and 3 cats. Just a bad funk and I hate it. You are real inspiration for others I can tell you that. I hope you did not have any of that weather that just went through. I thought about you when I saw what happed. Unbeilable! I think Mother Nature is mad at everybody in the world right now! Whew! I wanted you to know just since I have not called I think about you all of the time and hope you are doing well. You are going to beat this cancer, yes you are. Your attitude towards your situation just might help in getting you through also. Keep it up my friend and I will really try to call you soon. I'm not sure where your number is, perhaps you can email it to me heartbren@centurylink.net Love you, Brenda

**Diane4145** · 05-04-2011, 03:54 PM

Hi Brenda,

So sorry that you're going thru a tough time, seems alot of people are! I try to stay positive and realize that It could be sooo, much worse! I could've lost a loved one, like a coworker of mine! Her uncle's still missing in Tuscaloosa and one set of her grandparents, lost everything! My cousin's cousin just called her and three people were found alive today, in the Tuscaloosa area! I'm not sure of gender, ages, location, ....

Well, I did it, had to shave the head! I couldn't stand the "coming out in clumps, business"! I'm posting a mohawk and other pics, soon! I said that I'd be posting the good & bad!lol Didn't feel well anyway and shears died, twice! I'm getting my 5th chemo as I write, makes the times go by quicker! I've had numerous people ask about what happens during treatment and stages! The Power port is under skin, is trianguler and is connected to a large vein! Wicked feeling! It prevents me from being stuck, weekly! Keep you all posted and I continue to appreciate, your support and prayers! Gotta go, getting Benedryl drunk!lol

**Paula** · 05-05-2011, 12:12 PM

Thoughts and prayers to you. Four of my good friends are now healthy survivors of breast cancer. Wishing you a speedy recover, and thanks for the advice.

**Diane4145** · 05-18-2011, 03:15 PM

Just started chemo, had a bad last few days! I've developed a really bad rash and welts, all over my head! They were waiting on my blood results, to determine if I can get my weekly treatment! Ugh! Kinda have flu like symptoms, too! Oh well, I've been so fortunate to not have much difficulty in my previous six treatments, can't say much! Today's not a day, to take a pic!lol I'm now getting my, Benedryl drunk on!lol Hopefully, the Rx's Dr has ordered, will take care of rash! I start 3 new heavy drugs, on the 1st! They are Epirubicin, Cytoxin and Flouraroracil, also known as 5FU. The Epirubucin and Herceptin that I'm already on, can cause heart function problems, even 7-8yrs out of treatment! Some of these drugs can also cause, blood cancer! Damned if you do, damned if you don't! This is what you call, a necessary evil! I'm still trying to stay positive, but, it's really hard when you feel, like crap!lol I'm still going through treatment at my mother's, in Mobile, AL. Boy do I miss sowal, especially my sons and grandson! Keep you all posted, soon!

Diane

**Diane4145** · 05-25-2011, 01:40 PM

Hi Everyone,

I'm in the process of my 8th chemo treatment, as I write! I've continued with them every week and had no significant side effects! Except for the bad head rash, of bumps and welts! I'm on meds and the rash is a little better, but, there is an annoying side effect! I thought that I couldn't be any more down, but, one of the drugs keeps me in bed, more than usual!

Next week I begin Cytoxan, Epirubicin and Floraurorocil and I kinda dread it! Some of these drugs can affect my heart, even years later! Not to mention that several, can cause blood cancer! I try to stay positive, but, it can really be hard! I realize that the sooner I begin these new drugs, the sooner I get through chemo! I'm still going through this at my mother's, in Mobile, AL. I miss having my sons and grandson close by and I miss sowal, 2! Thank you all for your continued words of encouragement and prayers! I'll keep you all posted, soon!

Diane

**Diane4145** · 06-22-2011, 03:43 PM

I am at my 9th chemo treatment, missed last 3 wks due 2 bug & family member's surgery! I won't start 3 new heavy drugs now, for another month! Feeling much better, but, still hard to believe that I'll be in treatment, till around April! Even then I'll have several surgeries, with months of recovery time! I need a vacation, bigtime! I hope to visit my family in sowal, soon!

Diane

**Alicia Leonard** · 06-28-2011, 09:11 AM

I admire you Diane. You are very brave and I am thankful for you sharing your journey with us. God bless you and keep fighting. It will get better.

**Diane4145** · 06-29-2011, 03:21 PM

Thanks, Alicia, for your kind words! I have my bad days, but, try to remind myself, that this to shall pass! I have had many people say the exact same thing that you did and it means a lot! If my experience can help raise awareness, I'm for it!

**Diane4145** · 06-29-2011, 03:34 PM

Sitting here getting 10th chemo and finishing up, my Benedryl drunk! I saw my new Oncologist today, since mine transferred to MD Anderson, in Houston, Tx! Since I have at least 10 mos more treatment, I'm so relieved that I really, like him! It's very difficult to find a Dr, with a decent bedside manner! I need to be able to focus on my health, not having to keep a Dr in line!lol

Having chemo last week for 1st time in 3 wks, kinda took it's toll! I had a bad intestinal bug first two wks and was out of town for a family surgery, the other week. Just feeling better, now time to get a chemo refuel! Only 2 more weekly treatments, then start the 3 new heavy drugs! I'll get those every 3 wks, for 4 cycles! I've done so well so far, but, I'm hearing that the next drugs, may put me on my butt! Oh well, gotta do whatcha gotta do, to do what you wanna do! And, this is not the highest and best use, of my time! I prefer working and being productive and miss Russ, Blake & Jake, my sons and precious grandson! Thank you all for your continued support and prayers, I can't tell you how uplifting, they are!

Diane

**heartbren** · 06-30-2011, 02:04 PM

Hang in there Diane! I'm sorry you had to deal with that darn bug in the middle of all of this. I saw you post about the guy trying to do his dog. Was that crazy or what? I hope they took the dog away from the family and it gets a well deserved loving (in the proper way) home. Sorry I've been a stranger, but so happy to hear your usual upbeat self and keeping everyone posted on your progress. I wish I could do more to help and I am always thinking of you. Love you girl!

**Diane4145** · 07-06-2011, 03:33 PM

Getting my 11th chemo treatment with my new friend, Rosemary(background), from MS! It's nice to have someone going thru this experience, with me! This is her 3rd cancer diagnosis, but, she seems to be handling it, well! I have one more weekly treatment, have a three week break, then start three new heavy drugs! I've been given notice that things are going to heat up, not necessarilly in a good way! I really hope that I get to see my sons and grandson, Jake, before that! Thanks everyone, for your continued support, prayers and encouragement! Brenda, I'll call you soon, to catch up!

Diane

**Teresa** · 07-06-2011, 09:22 PM

We're thinking of you Diane. You sound pretty upbeat but I know it must be very difficult for you and you must be feeling like crap a lot of the time. Still, you seem to be doing what you must.. continuing to be thankful for your family and friends, and with a positive heart. I applaud you!

**bluecat** · 07-07-2011, 06:47 AM

Friends sharing is a part of the process of healing. I'm sure it's a very difficult time for you and your family. Stay positive, every day you are beating this demon.

**Diane4145** · 07-08-2011, 05:14 PM

Thanks, ladies, for your kind words of encouragement and support! You're right, I do have my bad days, having one today!lol Wearing a helmut(wig) in this heat, is just wrong!lol I continue to remind myself that I'm very blessed to be Stage 1, when I know of people fighting a much more serious, battle! Meeting Rosemary and already knowing several friends battling, or in remission, is some comfort! Next week is the last 2 drug treatment, then after a three week break, I start 3 serious drugs! Please keep me in your prayers, I'm human and getting pretty tired! Oh yeah, these weekly treatments and weigh ins, are like prenatal all over again! Ugh!!! I always enjoyed my pregnancies, this, not so much!lol Btw, the red wig's pretty bold, huh? I've said, "if you've gotta go bald, may as well go bold"!lol I'll keep you all posted, soon!

Diane
Name: Diane's 11th chemo treatment.jpg
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Name: Diane's 11th chemo treatment.jpg
Views: 31
Size: 96.6 KB

Originally Posted by Diane4145

Getting my 11th chemo treatment with my new friend, Rosemary(background), from MS! It's nice to have someone going thru this experience, with me! This is her 3rd cancer diagnosis, but, she seems to be handling it, well! I have one more weekly treatment, have a three week break, then start three new heavy drugs! I've been given notice that things are going to heat up, not necessarilly in a good way! I really hope that I get to see my sons and grandson, Jake, before that! Thanks everyone, for your continued support, prayers and encouragement! Brenda, I'll call you soon, to catch up!

Diane

**Alicia Leonard** · 07-08-2011, 07:11 PM

Love, love, love the wig! Hang in there!!!!!!!!!!!

**Diane4145** · 07-13-2011, 03:26 PM

Thank you, AL! Right now, I appreciate any compliment, that I can get!lol I figured that if I was going bald, may as well be bold! It's kinda nice not having to worry with the hair, just throw a wig on! I'm getting chemo as I write this, not been a very good week! Horrible fatique, severe bloat, bald head, thinning eyebrows and lashes...... I could continue, but, serves no purpose and it is, what it is! Today's the last day for my 2 drug chemo, then have a 3 wk break! On Aug 3rd, I start 3 heavy drugs every 3 wks, for 4 cycles! I've been very lucky so far, but, have a feeling that I'm in for a, rude awakening! I'll keep you all, posted!

**heartbren** · 07-14-2011, 01:17 PM

I'm always thinking of you Diane. I also like the wig. It looks good on you. I'm glad you will have a little break from the chemo. I know it is not easy, but your spirit will get you through. Love you!

**Diane4145** · 11-01-2011, 02:56 PM

Hi everyone,

Just wanted to update you, on my breast cancer journey! My first three months of treatment, I rec'd Taxol and Herceptin. I handled it really well and to this day have never thrown up, and only been nauseated, a few times! To say that losing your hair, eyebrows, most of your lashes, getting bloated, etc... is humbling, is an understatement! I've never had a weight, nor appearance issue, but, this could really be tough, on a person that puts too much stock, in to theirs! I keep reminding myself that this is only a short while in my life and a small price to pay, to be around for my family!

Early Aug, I started three really heavy drugs, every three weeks, four cycles! This treatment was tougher, but, not too! The nurse recommended that I take Claritan, to minimize potential side effects! I didn't get any because "I'm tough" and felt I wouldn't need any! Mistake! I was crippled in bed for about six days, with severe bone pain! The chemo kills your white blood cells(infection fighters) and the Neulasta shot that you go back for the next day, stirs up new ones! I already have bad back issues, so this was devastating! The next treatment, I took the shot along with Claritan and rotating extra strength Tylenol and a Rx for 600 mg Motrin! Much more, tolerable! Please, if you know of anyone looking at taking that shot, pass this along!

In Sept., my mother(staying with her) was visiting my brother in AK and I became very sick! ER Dr did xray and CAT Scan, yet said that they couldn't find anything! I went in with pain when I breathed in and it became worse, as I was there! They gave me pain meds and a Rx for an anti inflamatory and sent me home! UGH! I've kept pics of my entire journey and some are scary! The next week I went for chemo and found out that the ER report indicated that I had a spot on my thyroid, and in a lung! I was shocked, stupid ER Dr! I spent the next week and a half fighting my Drs office and Cigna, to get PET Scan and heart test ordered and approved! Some of my meds can cause cancer, heart failure and the need for a heart transplant! Some patients dont even develope the heart issues, for seven to eight yrs, outside of treatment! Damned if you do....Easier to fight cancer, than Drs and Ins co! The PET showed no new cancer and the heart test was even better, than my first! They believe that I had Pleuracy, since the anti inflamatory med worked! About three weeks ago I went for my last treatment, but, was unable to receive it, since my blood counts were too low! I was also told that I could go ahead and schedule my next surgery, which will be one, of three more!

I've not had last heavy chemo, because I was going to SOWAL to see my sons and grandson and didn't want to risk having side effects, messing with my Halloween trip! This is the first time I've been back, in a year! I'll get the Herceptin till mid April, which fights aggressiveness, since mine's most aggressive kind! I'm early Stage 1, but, most aggressive Grade 3! My trip here to SOWAL'S been great, nothing better for my health than being with my sons and grandson! Sorry about long msg, I'm way over due with the updates! Hope everyone is doing well and I'll try not to wait so long, with the updates!

Diane