Hi everyone! Just wanted to let you all know that I am doing very well. The summer is going by so fast! Alison has been here and that has been fun. Aaron and Audra are coming down to see us Aug. 8 and so is Kent's cousin, Heather and her 2 boys. We are really looking forward to that!
I have been looking for part time work (or full time if it is something I love). So, if any of you here about anything I might like, please let me know.
We were in Florida for about a week taking care of Kent's Aunt Carol who had been ill. The rest of the family was at a church conference, so we went to help out. I am glad to report that she is feeling better and improving everyday!
We are enjoying our neighborhood very much. We are all getting to know each other and have had a few gatherings. The last one was here at our house and it was so much fun. This Sunday, we are all going to a Chinese restaurant that is fabulous. Next Thursday, a bunch of us are going to a local auction. It feels good to finally be able to make some friends and have a real social life again!
I will probably not be writing much more on my blog. And, that is a good thing. That means I am well and doing great. I appreciate all of you taking an interest in my blog and thank you all for your prayers and support. Please be safe and be blessed.
Love, Deb
Susan G. Komen Ribbon
Friday, July 25, 2008
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Things are getting back to normal!
Just wanted to let you all know that last week I had my port taken out! That was a big step in getting back to normal. But, the best thing was that I had my mammogram and it came out okay! I was pretty nervous about going, so my friend, Jill, went with me. She has been through this herself and she said she could remember how nervous she was getting her first mammogram. We made a day of it and went out to lunch and to an antique mall.
I have been getting out and walking almost everyday. It feels really good to get out there and do a brisk walk. Today, my friend, Susan and I went to Kennesaw Mountain and hiked the walking trail there. It was great! We plan to do it more often.
Alison is here living with us and it has been wonderful to have her company. We play a lot of Boggle and Scrabble together. We also have some favorite television shows that we love to watch together. I will really miss her when she leaves at the end of the summer.
Our biggest news is that our son, Aaron, has gotten engaged to his girlfriend, Audra. We are so very happy for them and love Audra very much! Looks like the date will be sometime late summer of 2009.
Kent is still not working. Just when he thinks he has a strong "in", it seems like something happens to screw it up! We are trying to keep our chins up, but it gets difficult!
Hope you all have a good summer and I will write an update again soon.
Love, Deb
I have been getting out and walking almost everyday. It feels really good to get out there and do a brisk walk. Today, my friend, Susan and I went to Kennesaw Mountain and hiked the walking trail there. It was great! We plan to do it more often.
Alison is here living with us and it has been wonderful to have her company. We play a lot of Boggle and Scrabble together. We also have some favorite television shows that we love to watch together. I will really miss her when she leaves at the end of the summer.
Our biggest news is that our son, Aaron, has gotten engaged to his girlfriend, Audra. We are so very happy for them and love Audra very much! Looks like the date will be sometime late summer of 2009.
Kent is still not working. Just when he thinks he has a strong "in", it seems like something happens to screw it up! We are trying to keep our chins up, but it gets difficult!
Hope you all have a good summer and I will write an update again soon.
Love, Deb
Monday, June 2, 2008
Sunday, June 1, 2008
It's Been Awhile!
Just wanted to let ya all know that things are going pretty well as far as my health is concerned. I have a doctor appointment this coming Tuesday. I suppose I will get quite a bit of information at that time, like when I get my port out, how my blood is, etc. So, I will let you know what I find out.
Kent and I had to make a quick trip to Florida a few weeks ago. His Aunt Carol's husband died. He had made a decision to go to Hospice and everyone was told he would probably die in 7-10 days. Instead he died in 3 hours! We were all shocked. But he was ready and now is with God. He was a very nice guy. And, even though the circumstance of why we went there was not good, we did get to see family we do not get to see often and even got to see 2 of the newest additions, Mary Virginia and Lillian. What precious little girls!! On the way home, we decided to drive through Savannah, GA because neither one of us had ever been there. Well, it was really a fun little trip. We stopped and had lunch, took an historical trolley ride, and stopped for ice cream before we left. We enjoyed it so much, that we want to go back for a weekend. Anyone game to go with us?? Aaron is going to post some pictures of us in Savannah. I am sure they are LOVELY!!!!
Yesterday, we helped some neighbors with a screened-in porch they are building. It was hot, but we had fun. That evening, we had a nice pizza dinner at their house. It is great to be meeting people and getting a social life back again! Susan and I have alot in common. She is an interior designer and we like much of the same kind of things. One day last week, we went to a thrift store that was closing and everything in the store was 50 cents!! You should have seen the things we got for a total of $7 and $8!!!
This week, Alison will be here on Tuesday. We are looking forward to spending time with her. I think she is kind of excited too, but it will be difficult for her and her boyfriend, Paul to be apart.
Well, all for now. We still have an extra bedroom and an air mattress! So, if any of you are inclined to visit, we would love to have you!
Bye bye!! Deb
Kent and I had to make a quick trip to Florida a few weeks ago. His Aunt Carol's husband died. He had made a decision to go to Hospice and everyone was told he would probably die in 7-10 days. Instead he died in 3 hours! We were all shocked. But he was ready and now is with God. He was a very nice guy. And, even though the circumstance of why we went there was not good, we did get to see family we do not get to see often and even got to see 2 of the newest additions, Mary Virginia and Lillian. What precious little girls!! On the way home, we decided to drive through Savannah, GA because neither one of us had ever been there. Well, it was really a fun little trip. We stopped and had lunch, took an historical trolley ride, and stopped for ice cream before we left. We enjoyed it so much, that we want to go back for a weekend. Anyone game to go with us?? Aaron is going to post some pictures of us in Savannah. I am sure they are LOVELY!!!!
Yesterday, we helped some neighbors with a screened-in porch they are building. It was hot, but we had fun. That evening, we had a nice pizza dinner at their house. It is great to be meeting people and getting a social life back again! Susan and I have alot in common. She is an interior designer and we like much of the same kind of things. One day last week, we went to a thrift store that was closing and everything in the store was 50 cents!! You should have seen the things we got for a total of $7 and $8!!!
This week, Alison will be here on Tuesday. We are looking forward to spending time with her. I think she is kind of excited too, but it will be difficult for her and her boyfriend, Paul to be apart.
Well, all for now. We still have an extra bedroom and an air mattress! So, if any of you are inclined to visit, we would love to have you!
Bye bye!! Deb
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Sunday, May 18, 2008
A Good Report
Just wanted to report I had a doctor appointment on Friday to check my white blood cell counts, etc., and everything was really good. Actually better than they were the last time! So that is really good. I feel strong and am trying my best to eat right, take my vitamins, and get rest. There is something psychological about not having chemo anymore that is giving me new vitality!!
I had lunch this week with two different women who have also gone thru chemo. We are all doing a little different in our walk, but it is amazing how cancer can create a sisterhood between women. Both women that I met have great attitudes and are really amazing. I am so blessed to have met them.
I have been doing some gardening, so our yard is starting to look like someone actually lives here! I am working on a perennial border. I am doing it in shades of white, pink, purples. It is just so much fun. I also have several pots of herbs that I really enjoy and have already been able to use them in cooking. I also planted an heirloom tomato called "Pineapple". I have no idea what it will be like so it will be fun to watch it grow. Everyday I look at the little blossoms that someday will be tomatoes!
We went to a neighborhood block party on Saturday. It was really a nice party. They had huge grills and did fajita meat, hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, sausages, and someone made homemade tamales. It was fun (and interesting) to meet people from all over are neighborhood. Everyone brought a covered dish, the kids had a bouncy thing, the fire department was there and climbed up a ladder about 5 stories high, and took a picture of all of us below. A band played and they gave away door prizes. Next time you see Kent ask him what he won!!
Well, gotta leave for church. Have a great and blessed week.
Love, Deb
I had lunch this week with two different women who have also gone thru chemo. We are all doing a little different in our walk, but it is amazing how cancer can create a sisterhood between women. Both women that I met have great attitudes and are really amazing. I am so blessed to have met them.
I have been doing some gardening, so our yard is starting to look like someone actually lives here! I am working on a perennial border. I am doing it in shades of white, pink, purples. It is just so much fun. I also have several pots of herbs that I really enjoy and have already been able to use them in cooking. I also planted an heirloom tomato called "Pineapple". I have no idea what it will be like so it will be fun to watch it grow. Everyday I look at the little blossoms that someday will be tomatoes!
We went to a neighborhood block party on Saturday. It was really a nice party. They had huge grills and did fajita meat, hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, sausages, and someone made homemade tamales. It was fun (and interesting) to meet people from all over are neighborhood. Everyone brought a covered dish, the kids had a bouncy thing, the fire department was there and climbed up a ladder about 5 stories high, and took a picture of all of us below. A band played and they gave away door prizes. Next time you see Kent ask him what he won!!
Well, gotta leave for church. Have a great and blessed week.
Love, Deb
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
yesssssssssssssssssssssssss! We're done!
What a great couple of days I have had! Monday, Teri Nelson and Lucia Hillenmeyer came down from Nashville to celebrate my last day of chemo on Tuesday, May 6. It was just such a wonderful thing for them to come, and boy did we have fun!
Monday, no sooner had they brought their suitcases in, we took off for Trader Joe's for a wine purchase (these poor Nashville people have to stock up while they are here)! Nashville is getting a Trader Joe's, but right now you cannot buy wine in grocery stores so everyone is wondering if that could change! After Trader Joe's, we did a little shopping and then headed out to a new restaurant called Urban Flats. Lucia wanted to try it because her husband's cousin is opening one in Nashville in the Gulch. The restaurant is a new concept with emphasis on Flatbread entrees. They also have wine sampling. It was really good, and I would recommend going once it opens in Nashville. Very hip, very urban, and very uptown! Then we raced home to watch Dancing with the Stars (truth be told, mostly so I could watch it)!
Tuesday, was the really big day! We had breakfast and headed over for the FINAL CHEMO TREATMENT!! My blood work was good, so I got the go ahead for the infusion. Dr. Andrews came in as usual to talk to me and told me that I could get my port out in about 4 weeks. I still have to go in and get lab work done, and a check up on May 28. After that I will see him every 3 months for awhile, and then every 6 months, and so on for 5 years. He explained that with my kind of cancer, if it recurs, it is usually in the first 5 years, unlike estrogen positive cancer which does not get an all clear until 10 years. He really feels my prognosis is good, based on the fact that my margins were clear and no lymph nodes were involved. I am so lucky, because the grade of my cancer was aggressive, so praise God for that! So, after the chemo session, we had a very light lunch, went to Harry's, came home and had a glass of wine, a quick change of clothes, and grabbed Kent as our designated driver and headed to the Buckhead Diner for a great dinner. We had the best waiter, who kept us really entertained! Then on home for American Idol.
Today, we did a little more shopping, had lunch, and the girls went with me for my Neulasta shot. They left after that. It was sad to see them go, but meant the world to me they came to see me and be with me!
Friday is another big day, Alison graduates, so we will be heading to Knoxville for that celebration. We will spend the night and come home Saturday.
Kent and I took a nice 40 minute walk tonight. The weather is so pleasant and I felt pretty good except for a little shortness of breath and indigestion that I always get like clockwork after the chemo. I do know that walking is really good for you, because it helps push the chemo through your body.
Once again, I appreciate everyone who reads my blog and love hearing from anyone who does read it. Hopefully, I will never have to have a blog for this reason again! However, I will be doing periodic posts just to let you know how I am doing and what is going on. If you are a praying person, pray that the cancer cells are completely gone from my body forever! Thank you and God bless all of you!
Love, Deb
Monday, no sooner had they brought their suitcases in, we took off for Trader Joe's for a wine purchase (these poor Nashville people have to stock up while they are here)! Nashville is getting a Trader Joe's, but right now you cannot buy wine in grocery stores so everyone is wondering if that could change! After Trader Joe's, we did a little shopping and then headed out to a new restaurant called Urban Flats. Lucia wanted to try it because her husband's cousin is opening one in Nashville in the Gulch. The restaurant is a new concept with emphasis on Flatbread entrees. They also have wine sampling. It was really good, and I would recommend going once it opens in Nashville. Very hip, very urban, and very uptown! Then we raced home to watch Dancing with the Stars (truth be told, mostly so I could watch it)!
Tuesday, was the really big day! We had breakfast and headed over for the FINAL CHEMO TREATMENT!! My blood work was good, so I got the go ahead for the infusion. Dr. Andrews came in as usual to talk to me and told me that I could get my port out in about 4 weeks. I still have to go in and get lab work done, and a check up on May 28. After that I will see him every 3 months for awhile, and then every 6 months, and so on for 5 years. He explained that with my kind of cancer, if it recurs, it is usually in the first 5 years, unlike estrogen positive cancer which does not get an all clear until 10 years. He really feels my prognosis is good, based on the fact that my margins were clear and no lymph nodes were involved. I am so lucky, because the grade of my cancer was aggressive, so praise God for that! So, after the chemo session, we had a very light lunch, went to Harry's, came home and had a glass of wine, a quick change of clothes, and grabbed Kent as our designated driver and headed to the Buckhead Diner for a great dinner. We had the best waiter, who kept us really entertained! Then on home for American Idol.
Today, we did a little more shopping, had lunch, and the girls went with me for my Neulasta shot. They left after that. It was sad to see them go, but meant the world to me they came to see me and be with me!
Friday is another big day, Alison graduates, so we will be heading to Knoxville for that celebration. We will spend the night and come home Saturday.
Kent and I took a nice 40 minute walk tonight. The weather is so pleasant and I felt pretty good except for a little shortness of breath and indigestion that I always get like clockwork after the chemo. I do know that walking is really good for you, because it helps push the chemo through your body.
Once again, I appreciate everyone who reads my blog and love hearing from anyone who does read it. Hopefully, I will never have to have a blog for this reason again! However, I will be doing periodic posts just to let you know how I am doing and what is going on. If you are a praying person, pray that the cancer cells are completely gone from my body forever! Thank you and God bless all of you!
Love, Deb
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Five Down, One to Go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Can you believe it?! Now I can say I only have ONE MORE treatment! Yessss! I am starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Yesterday was great. My blood work was just awesome (except for I am a little low on the anemia, but not low enough to get treatment for it). White blood cell counts were awesome. Dr. Andrews told me I was just "sailing" thru the treatments and definitely only have one more!
My friend, Jill Alexander, went with me yesterday. We pretty much just talked for 3 hours. Of course, we had to have a few snacks as well. Jill is the one who went thru breast cancer about 7 years ago and is a SURVIVIVOR! So, she is a good support person. She had a much rougher time of chemo than I did. It made her very sick. Other than that set back in the hospital, an getting tired, I am doing great.
I will tell you one thing, it sure does not take long to get a shower and get ready in the morning! I did not realize how much time I spent on my hair! Now, I usually just plop a baseball cap on.
This week in the mail I received another pair of hand knitted socks from my friend, Colleen Feighner. You wouldn't believe these socks -- they are so cute. She is an amazing knitter and I love reeping the benefits of her labor!! Another fun thing I got was a straw fedora from my friend, Deanie Burge. I immediately put it on and Kent loved it! I wasn't sure it would look good on me, but it kind of did! Deanie was supposed to be here this week, but she is battling a wacky thyroid and was feeling really bad. Of course, she felt guilty about not being able to come and I told her I just wanted her well, and that is number one for her right now.
Another really neat thing I got was from Dawn Peach. I had forgotten to mention this, because I cannot use it while on chemo. But, it is a product called RevitaLash. It was invented by a doctor whose wife went thru chemo and had lost her long, thick eyelashes. So, I am really excited to try this as soon as I get done with chemo. Maybe I will have better lashes than before! I will keep you all posted on how this works.
Oh another thing. I got a surprise phone call this past Saturday morning from my friend Ellen Brandt who was down here at the Scott Antique Flea Market. She was with her friend Anna, and they wanted to stop by on their way back to Nashville. How exciting. It was so much fun to see both of them and really look forward to them coming back and maybe even tagging along to Scott. They are both just great, fun, lovely people. Thanks girls!
Now, I have to brag a little. Our daughter, Alison, got accepted into the Master of Accountancy program at the University of Tennessee. We are very proud of her. We look forward to attending her graduation on May 9 with her Bachelor's in Accounting AND her coming down here this summer to work for Ernst and Young.
Today, I go for my Neulasta shot. I look forward to this because I know that it will help me to keep white blood cell counts up. It makes me achey, but it is a good ache because that means it is working!
Well, that is all for this session. I hope you all enjoy reading this blog. I am so proud of Aaron who continually helps me with this and is always there to answer my stupid questions with as much patience as he can muster!
Hugs and kisses to you all! Deb
My friend, Jill Alexander, went with me yesterday. We pretty much just talked for 3 hours. Of course, we had to have a few snacks as well. Jill is the one who went thru breast cancer about 7 years ago and is a SURVIVIVOR! So, she is a good support person. She had a much rougher time of chemo than I did. It made her very sick. Other than that set back in the hospital, an getting tired, I am doing great.
I will tell you one thing, it sure does not take long to get a shower and get ready in the morning! I did not realize how much time I spent on my hair! Now, I usually just plop a baseball cap on.
This week in the mail I received another pair of hand knitted socks from my friend, Colleen Feighner. You wouldn't believe these socks -- they are so cute. She is an amazing knitter and I love reeping the benefits of her labor!! Another fun thing I got was a straw fedora from my friend, Deanie Burge. I immediately put it on and Kent loved it! I wasn't sure it would look good on me, but it kind of did! Deanie was supposed to be here this week, but she is battling a wacky thyroid and was feeling really bad. Of course, she felt guilty about not being able to come and I told her I just wanted her well, and that is number one for her right now.
Another really neat thing I got was from Dawn Peach. I had forgotten to mention this, because I cannot use it while on chemo. But, it is a product called RevitaLash. It was invented by a doctor whose wife went thru chemo and had lost her long, thick eyelashes. So, I am really excited to try this as soon as I get done with chemo. Maybe I will have better lashes than before! I will keep you all posted on how this works.
Oh another thing. I got a surprise phone call this past Saturday morning from my friend Ellen Brandt who was down here at the Scott Antique Flea Market. She was with her friend Anna, and they wanted to stop by on their way back to Nashville. How exciting. It was so much fun to see both of them and really look forward to them coming back and maybe even tagging along to Scott. They are both just great, fun, lovely people. Thanks girls!
Now, I have to brag a little. Our daughter, Alison, got accepted into the Master of Accountancy program at the University of Tennessee. We are very proud of her. We look forward to attending her graduation on May 9 with her Bachelor's in Accounting AND her coming down here this summer to work for Ernst and Young.
Today, I go for my Neulasta shot. I look forward to this because I know that it will help me to keep white blood cell counts up. It makes me achey, but it is a good ache because that means it is working!
Well, that is all for this session. I hope you all enjoy reading this blog. I am so proud of Aaron who continually helps me with this and is always there to answer my stupid questions with as much patience as he can muster!
Hugs and kisses to you all! Deb
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Pictures
Here are some pictures. The first is when my Dad and Grandpa went to the World of Coke, and the second is when my mom, dad, grandpa, and Susan went to eat with Steve.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
I Am Getting Spoiled!
Last Thursday, Kent's dad and cousin, Susan flew in for a visit. It has been really nice having company. AND, especially with Susan cooking our meals! We have had a lot of great dinners. She has cooked every single night -- that is why I am getting spoiled. Today she is cleaning! It will be sad to see them leave. Every evening we sit on the back patio and have our two buck chuck wine from Trader Joes. Susan has really enjoyed that.
Today, Kent took his dad to the World of Coke tour. He was looking forward to doing that with Kent. Since he used to work for Kraft Foods, he likes to see other facilities that package food, etc.
Tonight, Chuck is taking us for barbeque, which I am really looking forward to, since we hardly ever go out for dinner anymore.
I did have a scare last week. I had to go in on Thursday (the day Chuck and Susan came in) and have lab work done. When I got to the doctor, they found I had a temperature! I did not feel bad, but apparently, the left breast was being naughty again! The temp was 100.2 and at 100.5 they stick you in the hospital. I was in panic mode, because I sure did not want to go there again!! Anyway, they ran all kinds of blood tests for staff cultures and then sent me to Dr. Fine's office (the surgeon) so he could do an ultrasound and see if there was something brewing in that breast. Sure enough, I did have some fluid. So, he drained that, put me on augmentin and I am happy to report I have been doing well ever since. I had a follow-up visit with the oncologist on Monday, and my cultures were negative and as long as blood counts stay high, I can have chemo on the 15th - yea!
Hope you all are enjoying Spring. I will write after my next chemo! Take care. Love, Deb
Today, Kent took his dad to the World of Coke tour. He was looking forward to doing that with Kent. Since he used to work for Kraft Foods, he likes to see other facilities that package food, etc.
Tonight, Chuck is taking us for barbeque, which I am really looking forward to, since we hardly ever go out for dinner anymore.
I did have a scare last week. I had to go in on Thursday (the day Chuck and Susan came in) and have lab work done. When I got to the doctor, they found I had a temperature! I did not feel bad, but apparently, the left breast was being naughty again! The temp was 100.2 and at 100.5 they stick you in the hospital. I was in panic mode, because I sure did not want to go there again!! Anyway, they ran all kinds of blood tests for staff cultures and then sent me to Dr. Fine's office (the surgeon) so he could do an ultrasound and see if there was something brewing in that breast. Sure enough, I did have some fluid. So, he drained that, put me on augmentin and I am happy to report I have been doing well ever since. I had a follow-up visit with the oncologist on Monday, and my cultures were negative and as long as blood counts stay high, I can have chemo on the 15th - yea!
Hope you all are enjoying Spring. I will write after my next chemo! Take care. Love, Deb
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Still Hangin' in There
Hi Everyone! Just wanted to let you know that I am doing very well since my last chemo. I had the Neulasta shot this time the day after treatment and that really helps! It does make me very achy, but that means it is working, so I try not to complain! I go this Thursday, April 3, to get lab work done. They will look at all my "counts" and tell me the results immediately. Hopefully, Neulasta worked and my white blood counts are rebuilding themselves. Next chemo: Tuesday, April 15. After that I only have one more to go, which is scheduled for May 6.
This past weekend, we went to Knoxville to attend Alison's sorority's awards dinner. I stayed in the hotel room while Kent and Alison went. I was pretty tired anyway, and ordered room service. After the dinner, they came back to the room and we all laid in the king size bed and watched "Catch Me If You Can" with Leonardo DiCaprio. That is a great movie by the way -- even Kent liked it!! I know.....................that is amazing in itself. The next day, we ate a quick breakfast and visited with Alison before heading home.
Tomorrow, Kent's dad flies in from Indiana and Kent's cousin, Susan, is coming from Florida. Susan will be a big help, and it will be nice to see them both. Kent is completely in charge of "entertainment", so I hope to just sit back and enjoy the company.
Thank you everyone for your sweet cards, notes, letters, emails, flowers, pj's, socks, hats, gifts, and phone calls. Everyone of you plays such a big part in my life. Love you all! Be blessed.
Love, Deb
This past weekend, we went to Knoxville to attend Alison's sorority's awards dinner. I stayed in the hotel room while Kent and Alison went. I was pretty tired anyway, and ordered room service. After the dinner, they came back to the room and we all laid in the king size bed and watched "Catch Me If You Can" with Leonardo DiCaprio. That is a great movie by the way -- even Kent liked it!! I know.....................that is amazing in itself. The next day, we ate a quick breakfast and visited with Alison before heading home.
Tomorrow, Kent's dad flies in from Indiana and Kent's cousin, Susan, is coming from Florida. Susan will be a big help, and it will be nice to see them both. Kent is completely in charge of "entertainment", so I hope to just sit back and enjoy the company.
Thank you everyone for your sweet cards, notes, letters, emails, flowers, pj's, socks, hats, gifts, and phone calls. Everyone of you plays such a big part in my life. Love you all! Be blessed.
Love, Deb
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Easter 2008
Hey everyone,
I should have posted this pictures sooner, but I have been really busy procrastinating doing it. We did have a great time in Atlanta for Easter. Audra and I met Alison in Chattanooga and carpooled the rest of the way, so we were very green. Anyway on with the show.
I should have posted this pictures sooner, but I have been really busy procrastinating doing it. We did have a great time in Atlanta for Easter. Audra and I met Alison in Chattanooga and carpooled the rest of the way, so we were very green. Anyway on with the show.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Easter Weekend Update
Hope you all had a great Easter. We had a fabulous one! Aaron and Alison came for the entire weekend – what a treat. Audra came with Aaron and we had wonderful family time. Saturday night, Aaron invited some friends over to the house for dinner, and it was just lovely to have young people around here again! We love the commotion! Friday, our old neighbors, the Grady’s stopped by for a visit. It was so good seeing them. Then on Saturday, my friend, Terry Fardon from
This coming weekend, we are heading to
Aaron is working hard on finishing his degree. He is ready to get on with his “adult” life. Audra is very patient and encourages him along the way. We are very proud of his efforts.
Monday, after Easter, I had my 3rd chemo treatment. It went without a hitch. Went back today to get a Neulasta shot that should boost my white blood cell counts to fight infection. The doctor is changing my chemo days to Tuesdays. Monday’s are just crazy there. I only have 2 more to go!! Hopefully, May 6 will be my last one!!!!! I am sure ready to get on with life, but I know it is worth the wait to make sure the cancer is all gone.
I am also asking you to pray for a friend of mine, Marcia Roland, who lives in
Well that is about it for this update. Love to hear from you all whether it is a post or an email – I just love hearing from everyone of you.
Take care until next update!!
Love, Deb
Sunday, March 16, 2008
One, Two, Three beds you're out
Too bad that is not the case at the hospital. A couple of nights ago I changed beds three times and and never left my room. For some reason, my bed started signaling the nursing station. It was really old and had a trapeze-type bar over it. It didn't really bother me, but I did think it sort of strange. So they brought me another bed and this one proved faulty too. So then they brought me a third bed which was much newer and seems to work well. I still prefer the one at my house.
And speaking of my house, I have great hope of seeing it again early next week. Probably Tuesday if my fever stays down and they infection goes away and they are convinced they have the right antibiotics to treat it. The doctor said they usually want the infection to be gone for about nine days before they do another chemotherapy treatment so it looks like my March 24th scheduled treatment is in jeopardy.
Overall, I'm feeling pretty good and looking forward to getting home. Thanks to all of you for the notes and thoughts and prays. Every single one of them means a great deal to me.
And speaking of my house, I have great hope of seeing it again early next week. Probably Tuesday if my fever stays down and they infection goes away and they are convinced they have the right antibiotics to treat it. The doctor said they usually want the infection to be gone for about nine days before they do another chemotherapy treatment so it looks like my March 24th scheduled treatment is in jeopardy.
Overall, I'm feeling pretty good and looking forward to getting home. Thanks to all of you for the notes and thoughts and prays. Every single one of them means a great deal to me.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Disappointed, but I guess . . .
it is all for the better. I did not get to come home today. Overall, I'm doing pretty well. Unfortunately, I still have an infection at the incision point of my radiation. They took a needle biopsy of it today to figure out exactly what it is. They also drained out some of the infection which should help with some of the pain in that area. They will have to take the biopsy to the lab and grow the infection to figure out what will be the right antibiotic. All that won't get done until Monday. Until then I will get more general antibiotics and a shot to help my white blood count recover. This is very frustrating, but so far they say I am still on schedule for my next treatment on March 24th.
So until then, I am here and you are there. The food is lousy and the nurses are nearly as nice as all my friends. But pretty soon, I'll be back out there. I do appreciate your thoughts and prayers and calls.
So until then, I am here and you are there. The food is lousy and the nurses are nearly as nice as all my friends. But pretty soon, I'll be back out there. I do appreciate your thoughts and prayers and calls.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Not Voted Out of the Hospital
I thought I was going to be leaving the hospital today, but it doesn't look like it. Things are looking better. . . fever is normal . . . some of the pain and swelling has gone . . . the infection is getting better. Today, however, the doctor wants to give me some more antibiotics and do a sampling to see if there is any hidden infection where the incision had been. It is all good, they just want to make it all better.
Wish I could have gotten voted out of the hospital but at least I was a finalist in the bottom three.
Wish I could have gotten voted out of the hospital but at least I was a finalist in the bottom three.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Getting better
The doctor just stopped by this morning and said things are looking better. My fever is down and the blood counts are improving. The general antibiotic seems to have helped against the infection. He said I might come home tomorrow if things keep progressing.
Because of the hospital stint, I was not available to sing on American Idol last night. I did however judge.
Hopefully home tomorrow.
Because of the hospital stint, I was not available to sing on American Idol last night. I did however judge.
Hopefully home tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
I'm in ER (Emergency Room not the TV show)
Yesterday I started feeling sort of run down, like I had the flu. My temperature started rising so I called the doctor's office and they told me to go to the Emergency Room. We arrived at a little after 8:00 PM and they took blood and urine and gave me antibiotics through an IV. I finally got to a room at about 4:00 AM this morning. As we thought might happen, my blood counts got low and I was susceptible to infections. The place where I had the radiation balloon inserted has some kind of infection at that point and they want to get it under control immediately. So now I am in a regular room and the doctor told me I will be here for a few days. I really feel pretty good today, but am tired. I think they are going to give me a Nuelasta shot to help build the blood counts. The next couple of days are important to get my blood counts up and battle this infection. And I hope you don't see in ER again unless it is the TV show.
Thank you for all your love and support. It means a lot.
Thank you for all your love and support. It means a lot.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Chemo Brain
Time for updating the blog again. I am not a great writer, but I know it is good to get the updates out there! Thanks to everyone who is concerned!!
Let's see. Last week, I went in for my regular chemo session, but of course could not have it because of the radiation recall. They changed the treatment from Ruby (adriamycin) to Teri-tere (Toxitere). The first thing I had to do was be on a medication for 1 day prior to getting the new treatment, and then the two following days. The medication is for water retention that Teri-tere causes. We named it Teri-tere because Teri Nelson was down here with me when all this happened. Two days later we went to get the wig. The wig is itchy and I really don't like wearing it a whole lot. But, it does have its place. There are times I really need it. Most of the time I just go around balled at home, and wear hats and scarves out for longer trips.
While Teri was here she convinced me to go back to Nashville with her. I just could not think of a reason why I could not go. The next treatment was not until Monday, and Kent could pick me up in Chattanooga on Sunday. I was thinking (with Chemo Brain) that that weekend was still February. All this time, knowing in the back of my head that on March 1 Pam and Kristie Koerner were coming down to see me! Oh my gosh, did I screw up! I got a phone call from them on Saturday while I was with Aaron, and they were in Marietta on the way to my house! I almost threw up! I could not believe it. Trust me folks, chemo brain is a real true thing, and if you know anyone going thru this, be sympathetic! And double, double, and triple check with them if you make plans with them, cause they might do like I did! Last week was a very eventful week to say the least. I had my routine changed, started to lose my hair, and got my wig.
Monday, I did get the new treatment. So far, so good with it. It tends not to make you nauseous, so that is good. It does, however, drop your blood platelets more, so I go in on March 13 for a CBC and they will check my platelets. If they are low, I will get a Neulasta shot. Then I go back on the 24th for my next treatment is the platelets are high enough! Whew! It is a lot for us to remember. On top of that, I have to remember to start the medication 1 day before the treatment. Only 3 more though!! Hurray. There will be a celebration on May 5!
Alison graduates on May 9! Can you believe it?? We are so excited for her. Then she will be headed down here for 3 months to intern for Ernst and Young Accounting Firm. She is very excited about this opportunity. She has applied for the GMAC program where she will get her Master of Accountancy, then she will sit for the CPA. Hopefully, she will get hired by Ernst and Young after that!
Aaron is really working hard on his studies. He is on Spring Break this week. They loaded him down with homework too! So he is working and doing homework. He is anxious to move forward with his life. Audra is being so patient. Aaron gave me a big surprise this weekend. When I saw him, he had shaved his head completely balled in empathy for me! How sweet is that?
Okay, just two more things to tell you. When I was in Nashville, we went to the Registry in Franklin and surprised Dawn Peach while she was working. It was so much fun. Dawn, Teri, and I all teared up. It was just great fun to surprise her. After lunch we headed over to see Genia. I got her on her cell phone and was talking to her like I was in Georgia. Teri walked into the store and started to look around (on the clothing side). Genia said, oh someone is next door, Deb, I gotta run over there. I hurried in, went in the bathroom, and she walked in, saw Teri and started to talk to her and said, I just was talking to Deb on the phone. Just then I walked out and she turned around, and people you never have seen quite a spectacle as that! She screamed bloody murder, fell on the sofa, and continued to scream and cry. Teri thought she was going to have a heart attack! But it was good. She gave me a wonderful pair of Rich and Skinny jeans. The real dark ones that are like trousers. They are so cute. Dawn got me some stuff that will help my eyelashes grow back in thick! We sure had fun. Even though I had screwed up by going.
Aaron and I visited the Gradys and the Hodges in our old neighborhood. It was good to see them. We miss the neighbors. But, Sue and Karina are planning a trip here soon.
Take care until my next update. Love you all, Deb
Let's see. Last week, I went in for my regular chemo session, but of course could not have it because of the radiation recall. They changed the treatment from Ruby (adriamycin) to Teri-tere (Toxitere). The first thing I had to do was be on a medication for 1 day prior to getting the new treatment, and then the two following days. The medication is for water retention that Teri-tere causes. We named it Teri-tere because Teri Nelson was down here with me when all this happened. Two days later we went to get the wig. The wig is itchy and I really don't like wearing it a whole lot. But, it does have its place. There are times I really need it. Most of the time I just go around balled at home, and wear hats and scarves out for longer trips.
While Teri was here she convinced me to go back to Nashville with her. I just could not think of a reason why I could not go. The next treatment was not until Monday, and Kent could pick me up in Chattanooga on Sunday. I was thinking (with Chemo Brain) that that weekend was still February. All this time, knowing in the back of my head that on March 1 Pam and Kristie Koerner were coming down to see me! Oh my gosh, did I screw up! I got a phone call from them on Saturday while I was with Aaron, and they were in Marietta on the way to my house! I almost threw up! I could not believe it. Trust me folks, chemo brain is a real true thing, and if you know anyone going thru this, be sympathetic! And double, double, and triple check with them if you make plans with them, cause they might do like I did! Last week was a very eventful week to say the least. I had my routine changed, started to lose my hair, and got my wig.
Monday, I did get the new treatment. So far, so good with it. It tends not to make you nauseous, so that is good. It does, however, drop your blood platelets more, so I go in on March 13 for a CBC and they will check my platelets. If they are low, I will get a Neulasta shot. Then I go back on the 24th for my next treatment is the platelets are high enough! Whew! It is a lot for us to remember. On top of that, I have to remember to start the medication 1 day before the treatment. Only 3 more though!! Hurray. There will be a celebration on May 5!
Alison graduates on May 9! Can you believe it?? We are so excited for her. Then she will be headed down here for 3 months to intern for Ernst and Young Accounting Firm. She is very excited about this opportunity. She has applied for the GMAC program where she will get her Master of Accountancy, then she will sit for the CPA. Hopefully, she will get hired by Ernst and Young after that!
Aaron is really working hard on his studies. He is on Spring Break this week. They loaded him down with homework too! So he is working and doing homework. He is anxious to move forward with his life. Audra is being so patient. Aaron gave me a big surprise this weekend. When I saw him, he had shaved his head completely balled in empathy for me! How sweet is that?
Okay, just two more things to tell you. When I was in Nashville, we went to the Registry in Franklin and surprised Dawn Peach while she was working. It was so much fun. Dawn, Teri, and I all teared up. It was just great fun to surprise her. After lunch we headed over to see Genia. I got her on her cell phone and was talking to her like I was in Georgia. Teri walked into the store and started to look around (on the clothing side). Genia said, oh someone is next door, Deb, I gotta run over there. I hurried in, went in the bathroom, and she walked in, saw Teri and started to talk to her and said, I just was talking to Deb on the phone. Just then I walked out and she turned around, and people you never have seen quite a spectacle as that! She screamed bloody murder, fell on the sofa, and continued to scream and cry. Teri thought she was going to have a heart attack! But it was good. She gave me a wonderful pair of Rich and Skinny jeans. The real dark ones that are like trousers. They are so cute. Dawn got me some stuff that will help my eyelashes grow back in thick! We sure had fun. Even though I had screwed up by going.
Aaron and I visited the Gradys and the Hodges in our old neighborhood. It was good to see them. We miss the neighbors. But, Sue and Karina are planning a trip here soon.
Take care until my next update. Love you all, Deb
Monday, March 3, 2008
Pictures
So my mom came to Nashville this past weekend, and me and her spent almost the whole day together on Saturday. We had a blast, and a great dinner at Monell's in Franklin and it was fantastic. I can't wait to try out there breakfast one morning. We did some very light shopping and saw some old neighbors. She had a huge brain fart, but I will let her tell you about that. Anyways I just wanted to post some more pictures that me and her took. I have always wanted to shave my head and I thought it would be fun to shave it in support of my mom losing her hair. So here are the pictures, including one with me wearing her wig.
Aaron
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
The New Do
Well, as you have probably seen by the pictures, I have had my hair cut off as of today, Weds., Feb. 26. Interestingly enough I started to lose my hair last night. Today, I was scheduled to get my wig. Teri Nelson was here with me since I was supposed to have chemo on Monday. The chemo got delayed until this coming Monday because as it turned out, I had radiation recall. The type of chemo had to be changed. Along with that, differents meds, etc. I will be getting cytoxin and taxater (not sure it is spelled right). I will still have hair loss. My treatments will be every 3 weeks and I will have 4 more treatments instead of 7 as planned. I should be done by May 5 unless my treatment gets delayed for some reason (like low blood counts). I am believing that will not happen. Right now I am feeling really good, and I am ready to get another treatment behind me!
Tonight it's the girls on American Idol and Teri and I are anxious to watch it! We have our pajamas on and are ready to tune in!! I will write more later. Love, Deb
Tonight it's the girls on American Idol and Teri and I are anxious to watch it! We have our pajamas on and are ready to tune in!! I will write more later. Love, Deb
New Pictures
Leave it to the men to get the work on my mom's blog done. My dad emailed me pictures of my mom's newest hairdo preparing for losing her real hair. As usual I have added these pictures to the slideshow in the upper right hand corner, unless you use your computer in the mirror then it will be in the upper left hand :). I am also putting the hair pictures here. Enjoy, and bug my mom for not updating her blog with the newest news.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
It has been awhile!
I figured it was time to update my blog, when my son, Aaron, called and "scolded" me for not updating recently! So here goes: I felt great after chemo until Weds. eve. Kent has sent me a big beautiful bouquet of white tulips for anniversary/valentine's day. He made reservations to a really nice restaurant in Buckhead for 3, because Dawn was here. But I just did not feel like going.
As it turned out, we went to Taco Mac (sports bar), ate dinner, and he stayed to watch IU play. Dawn and I went to Barnes and Noble where I could sit comfortably in a chair. By Thursday, I felt pretty poopy! I slept most of the day. It was just tiredness, but I did not like it. Friday I felt good again, and we even went antiquing on Saturday!
Monday, I went in for my CBC blood count test. It showed my counts were low (91). But this is somewhat normal after chemo. The day after chemo I had a Neulasta shot which helps the platelets and white blood cell counts to go up. They said it should start kicking in soon. Hopefully, by Monday, my counts will be up to at least to 140 so I can have chemo, otherwise they delay it. The Neulasta shot really, really makes my bones hurt! I mean hurt BAD!! But this is good because that means it is working. Thank goodness for Advil and heating pads.
There was one other "setback". I have a redspot on my left breast right where the incision was for the radiation. I was told that after I start chemo, I might get something called Radiation Recall. They told me it would be a red spot and look and feel like a sunburn. Well, they are not sure if I have an infection or if it is RR. They put me on Cipro and Augmentin to see if it is an infection and goes away. If it does not, then my chemo treatment will be somewhat jeopardized, because I will not be able to get Ruby (Adriamycin). I really hope it is an infection. But, God knows what he is doing, and I have to trust this is all for my good. I really felt like a "cancer patient" on Monday. I was walking funny because my bones hurt, and my spirit was temporarily wounded. But, I am rallying, and hopefully everything will be just fine.
My visitors this past week have been Deanie Burge and Dawn Peach. It was fabulous to have them here. They both bring their special talents and gifts at just the right time! Dawn brought me a cute pink T-Shirt that says "Think Happy Stuff". I love wearing it because it makes me happy!!! Genia sent me some new Paige jeans because my other ones sagged to much in the rear! (I thought sagging was in!). The jeans are really cute. I also got a UPS package the other day. It was a Pajama Gram, from an old friend and neighbor in CT, Marcia White. I called her, and we talked like we have never been apart (but it has been almost 20 years). Deanie gave me a book about healing cancer thru the Lord's Prayer. It is a fabulous book and is full of hope.
Speaking of books, I just finished "The Other Boleyn Girl". It was soooooooooo good. Can't wait to see the movie. I am always looking for good suggestions on books, so if any of you have any recommendations, let me know.
I think I rambled on enough. Take care, and I will let ya know what happens Monday. Teri Nelson will be here then, and we are going to the wig place together and having a head shaving ceremony!! (on Weds.). We will post pictures. Wish me luck that chemo happens!!
Love Deb
As it turned out, we went to Taco Mac (sports bar), ate dinner, and he stayed to watch IU play. Dawn and I went to Barnes and Noble where I could sit comfortably in a chair. By Thursday, I felt pretty poopy! I slept most of the day. It was just tiredness, but I did not like it. Friday I felt good again, and we even went antiquing on Saturday!
Monday, I went in for my CBC blood count test. It showed my counts were low (91). But this is somewhat normal after chemo. The day after chemo I had a Neulasta shot which helps the platelets and white blood cell counts to go up. They said it should start kicking in soon. Hopefully, by Monday, my counts will be up to at least to 140 so I can have chemo, otherwise they delay it. The Neulasta shot really, really makes my bones hurt! I mean hurt BAD!! But this is good because that means it is working. Thank goodness for Advil and heating pads.
There was one other "setback". I have a redspot on my left breast right where the incision was for the radiation. I was told that after I start chemo, I might get something called Radiation Recall. They told me it would be a red spot and look and feel like a sunburn. Well, they are not sure if I have an infection or if it is RR. They put me on Cipro and Augmentin to see if it is an infection and goes away. If it does not, then my chemo treatment will be somewhat jeopardized, because I will not be able to get Ruby (Adriamycin). I really hope it is an infection. But, God knows what he is doing, and I have to trust this is all for my good. I really felt like a "cancer patient" on Monday. I was walking funny because my bones hurt, and my spirit was temporarily wounded. But, I am rallying, and hopefully everything will be just fine.
My visitors this past week have been Deanie Burge and Dawn Peach. It was fabulous to have them here. They both bring their special talents and gifts at just the right time! Dawn brought me a cute pink T-Shirt that says "Think Happy Stuff". I love wearing it because it makes me happy!!! Genia sent me some new Paige jeans because my other ones sagged to much in the rear! (I thought sagging was in!). The jeans are really cute. I also got a UPS package the other day. It was a Pajama Gram, from an old friend and neighbor in CT, Marcia White. I called her, and we talked like we have never been apart (but it has been almost 20 years). Deanie gave me a book about healing cancer thru the Lord's Prayer. It is a fabulous book and is full of hope.
Speaking of books, I just finished "The Other Boleyn Girl". It was soooooooooo good. Can't wait to see the movie. I am always looking for good suggestions on books, so if any of you have any recommendations, let me know.
I think I rambled on enough. Take care, and I will let ya know what happens Monday. Teri Nelson will be here then, and we are going to the wig place together and having a head shaving ceremony!! (on Weds.). We will post pictures. Wish me luck that chemo happens!!
Love Deb
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Happy Anniversary
Happy anniversary to my parents. A day late actually but I figured better late than never. Is it 27th? I forget. Anyways way to go guys. Yall have been great parents and I am thankful that you have created a wonderful household to grow up in all these years.
aaron
aaron
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
First Chemo Trip Pictures
UPDATE: I just added a few more pictures to the slideshows.
I was going to just add this to my mom's previous post but decided that I wanted to keep the picture posts seperate from the other posts. Also I added these pictures to the ongoing slideshow in the top right corner of the site. Hope everyone enjoys.
I was going to just add this to my mom's previous post but decided that I wanted to keep the picture posts seperate from the other posts. Also I added these pictures to the ongoing slideshow in the top right corner of the site. Hope everyone enjoys.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Meet Ruby and Roxanne!
You probably wonder who Ruby and Roxanne are. Well, they are two new "friends" at the chemo infusion center. Ruby is really Adriamycin. My friend Dawn gave her the name of Ruby because the drug normally is referred to as The Red Devil. Dawn suggested we come up with a new name for it -- Ruby (because it is red) and Roxanne (Cytoxan) may seem like ugly, mean girls, but in the long run they only want the best for you.
Dawn came down on Sunday and she said we were going to PARTY. S00000000000000, we went to the Buckhead Diner for dinner and she treated us to a fabulous dinner including their famous Blue Cheese Potato Chips. I even had 2 glasses of wine. It was a lovely evening!
The next day, we got ready to go to the chemo center and they drew blood from the port. Then Dr. Andrews came in and we had a great time with him. When he found out Dawn was a great cook (and I was her "right" arm, he showed us a menu for his Valentine Dinner at his house that he was hosting for his wife and 5 couples. So, we gave our opinions! We really wanted to be invited, but sounds like 10 people were about it!
He walked us over the the chemo place (where all the chairs are). First they asked if we wanted refreshments (another party)! They hooked me up, and we took pictures which you will see posted on this blog. There are pictures of Dawn, me, and the nurse along with Ruby and Roxanne! I wore my special gold charm bracelet that Genia gave me for good luck. This was all totally painless. The nurse, Carolyn, was very good at explaining what each drug was and how might feel when she administered the drug. She was very nice and nurturing (I think she really liked us) ! She stuck her head right in their to have her picture taken with us. Thankfully, I had no ill side effects during the chemo. Now, they did give me an anti-nausea pill before they started the drip, and I received another during treatment. I am feeling fine right now. Tomorrow, may be a different story. I did get really hungry during the 2 1/2 hours that we were there, so after we left, we went and had fish tacos (Dawn DID NOT suggest this, but you know me and Mexican food). Dawn did not even recommend it! She just wants it for the record that if I start puking fish tacos, it isn't her fault. What made it worse, we went to Krispey Kreme (which, again was NOT something she wanted to do), but she is feeling sorry for me and obliged anyway!! It all tasted good. I rewarded her with a trip to Sonic, so she could get a Sonic Diet Coke with Sonic ice! Yummy!
Tonight she is going to cook a meal for us and we are going to watch "What About Bob?", so we can laugh me well! Tomorrow, I go for a Neulasta shot at 10:00. This will help build bone marrow and white blood cells. The side effects of this are usually achy bones, but it beats going to the hospital to get blood transfusions when my count goes down.
Ta Ta for now!! Love ya, Deb
Dawn came down on Sunday and she said we were going to PARTY. S00000000000000, we went to the Buckhead Diner for dinner and she treated us to a fabulous dinner including their famous Blue Cheese Potato Chips. I even had 2 glasses of wine. It was a lovely evening!
The next day, we got ready to go to the chemo center and they drew blood from the port. Then Dr. Andrews came in and we had a great time with him. When he found out Dawn was a great cook (and I was her "right" arm, he showed us a menu for his Valentine Dinner at his house that he was hosting for his wife and 5 couples. So, we gave our opinions! We really wanted to be invited, but sounds like 10 people were about it!
He walked us over the the chemo place (where all the chairs are). First they asked if we wanted refreshments (another party)! They hooked me up, and we took pictures which you will see posted on this blog. There are pictures of Dawn, me, and the nurse along with Ruby and Roxanne! I wore my special gold charm bracelet that Genia gave me for good luck. This was all totally painless. The nurse, Carolyn, was very good at explaining what each drug was and how might feel when she administered the drug. She was very nice and nurturing (I think she really liked us) ! She stuck her head right in their to have her picture taken with us. Thankfully, I had no ill side effects during the chemo. Now, they did give me an anti-nausea pill before they started the drip, and I received another during treatment. I am feeling fine right now. Tomorrow, may be a different story. I did get really hungry during the 2 1/2 hours that we were there, so after we left, we went and had fish tacos (Dawn DID NOT suggest this, but you know me and Mexican food). Dawn did not even recommend it! She just wants it for the record that if I start puking fish tacos, it isn't her fault. What made it worse, we went to Krispey Kreme (which, again was NOT something she wanted to do), but she is feeling sorry for me and obliged anyway!! It all tasted good. I rewarded her with a trip to Sonic, so she could get a Sonic Diet Coke with Sonic ice! Yummy!
Tonight she is going to cook a meal for us and we are going to watch "What About Bob?", so we can laugh me well! Tomorrow, I go for a Neulasta shot at 10:00. This will help build bone marrow and white blood cells. The side effects of this are usually achy bones, but it beats going to the hospital to get blood transfusions when my count goes down.
Ta Ta for now!! Love ya, Deb
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Port Day
Today was the day I had been dreading -- getting the port put in. But, it actually was not too bad. We had to be at the hospital at 5:30 a.m. Surgery was at 7:39. And, yes, they put me totally out. I did not know they would for sure. Everything went really well. Once I got home, I took a pain pill (because I think that where they attached the port to my vein hurts a little). I slept and slept all afternoon! Maybe it had something to do with us getting up really early 3 mornings in a row! OR this just affected me differently. My biggest complaint is that my legs feel a little shakey. I don't know what that is all about (even my hands seem kind of jello-y). Hopefully tomorrow I will feel a little better.
Saturday Kent and I went exploring. We found a couple of cute shops in Buckhead, one had antiques, one had gifty things, and one had clothes. Then we went to Roswell and found a good antique mall there. It was definitely the best one so far and fairly affordable. We stopped at Trader Joes and got wine (2 buck chuck) to take to the Nelson's Super Bowl Party on Sunday.
Speaking of the Super Bowl Party, we had a great time. It was so good seeing our old dinner group and just being with friends. The food was yummy!! And ya all know me, I did not watch much of the game -- until the last 11 minutes or so, and boy was it exciting! We were all screaming. I hope I don't offend anyone here, but I think everyone was for the Giants. We got up early early on Sunday to drive to church at Brentwood UMC, had lunch with Aaron and Audra, went to see Aaron's slipcover for his sofa, and went to the party. We had to get up early early the next day and drive back so I could get an echo cardiogram. So, we have had a few busy days.
Colleen sent me a darling hat that she knitted. It is just so cute. It has a leafy pattern that goes around the bottom part of the hat and it is done in the prettiest yarn of cashmere and silk in a beautiful silvery tealish color. Thanks Colleen. You are one amazing knitter!!
I am looking forward to Thursday, when Deanie comes to visit for a few days. Then, Dawn comes on Sunday to be here with me for the first chemo treatment. I am just so lucky to have this support.
I will let everyone know what I picked out for a wig on Friday.
Love, Deb
Saturday Kent and I went exploring. We found a couple of cute shops in Buckhead, one had antiques, one had gifty things, and one had clothes. Then we went to Roswell and found a good antique mall there. It was definitely the best one so far and fairly affordable. We stopped at Trader Joes and got wine (2 buck chuck) to take to the Nelson's Super Bowl Party on Sunday.
Speaking of the Super Bowl Party, we had a great time. It was so good seeing our old dinner group and just being with friends. The food was yummy!! And ya all know me, I did not watch much of the game -- until the last 11 minutes or so, and boy was it exciting! We were all screaming. I hope I don't offend anyone here, but I think everyone was for the Giants. We got up early early on Sunday to drive to church at Brentwood UMC, had lunch with Aaron and Audra, went to see Aaron's slipcover for his sofa, and went to the party. We had to get up early early the next day and drive back so I could get an echo cardiogram. So, we have had a few busy days.
Colleen sent me a darling hat that she knitted. It is just so cute. It has a leafy pattern that goes around the bottom part of the hat and it is done in the prettiest yarn of cashmere and silk in a beautiful silvery tealish color. Thanks Colleen. You are one amazing knitter!!
I am looking forward to Thursday, when Deanie comes to visit for a few days. Then, Dawn comes on Sunday to be here with me for the first chemo treatment. I am just so lucky to have this support.
I will let everyone know what I picked out for a wig on Friday.
Love, Deb
Friday, February 1, 2008
Headcovers and Pictures
First of all I updated the slideshow for the blog, with some pictures from the trip Audra and I took to Atlanta, so check those out if you get a chance.
Also, here are some pictures of my mom showing off her new headcovers. One of the pictures is of pretty poor quality, I tried to fix it up a little but, it really just looks kind of scary. Know that it is not my mom that looks scary, but you could not see it all before I fixed up the picture. So my apologies, especially to my beautiful mom, because the picture is really weird looking. Also thanks to Teri Nelson for sending the headcovers, they will definitely come in handy later.
Aaron
Also, here are some pictures of my mom showing off her new headcovers. One of the pictures is of pretty poor quality, I tried to fix it up a little but, it really just looks kind of scary. Know that it is not my mom that looks scary, but you could not see it all before I fixed up the picture. So my apologies, especially to my beautiful mom, because the picture is really weird looking. Also thanks to Teri Nelson for sending the headcovers, they will definitely come in handy later.
Aaron
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Genetic Gene Counseling
Guess where I got to go yesterday? Answer: to the oncology center again!!! Yep, everyday (almost) it seems I get to go to a doctor's office, hospital, or chemo center for one reason or another! One day you are COMPLETELY fine, and the next thing you know, people are cutting on you and you are showing your boobies to just about everyone!
Yesterday, I talked to a Genetic Gene Counselor. She is gathering all the data regarding my family history and putting it in a data base, which will tell her approximately what my chances are that I am predisposed to getting cancer again. She said right now it looked like about 10% chance. The 2 reasons I wanted to know was for Alison's sake, and do I have a chance of getting this cancer again (because you basically cannot do the same chemo again). As for Alison, she says she should go every year from age 30 for a mammogram and ultra sound just to play it safe. Since I will be monitored closely in the future, I may take my chances, or I might wait for this chemo stuff to get over and then get the testing if insurance pays for it. It is $3100 to have it done and there is only one lab in the country that does this testing.
Thanks to everyone who has called me, sent cards, sent goodies, etc. I just have the most amazing group of friends that anyone could possibly have. I love you all!!
Love, Deb
Yesterday, I talked to a Genetic Gene Counselor. She is gathering all the data regarding my family history and putting it in a data base, which will tell her approximately what my chances are that I am predisposed to getting cancer again. She said right now it looked like about 10% chance. The 2 reasons I wanted to know was for Alison's sake, and do I have a chance of getting this cancer again (because you basically cannot do the same chemo again). As for Alison, she says she should go every year from age 30 for a mammogram and ultra sound just to play it safe. Since I will be monitored closely in the future, I may take my chances, or I might wait for this chemo stuff to get over and then get the testing if insurance pays for it. It is $3100 to have it done and there is only one lab in the country that does this testing.
Thanks to everyone who has called me, sent cards, sent goodies, etc. I just have the most amazing group of friends that anyone could possibly have. I love you all!!
Love, Deb
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Chemo School
Today, Kent and I went to patient education to learn about what to expect from chemo. All the nurses were just super friendly. I am on the A Team! They divide all 8 doctors and all the nurses up into 2 teams (A and B). They try to make it a happy place. They have a big beverage center, where you can get soft drinks, tea, coffee, juice. They even have blankets in warmers for you since they keep it pretty cold in the fusion room.
Sounds like there is going to be some rough roads ahead, but the nurse I saw today told me they really work with you and monitor you all the time. I have to go back the day after each chemo and get Neulasta put in. That is supposed to help build the blood so you don't get run down (the most vulnerable time is 7-14 days after the chemo treatment). This lets you go back to your next treatment hopefully with plenty of red and white blood cells.
Yesterday, I got a surprise in the mail. Teri Nelson sent me a whole bunch of head covers. They are so cute. She did good pickin' them out! I loved everyone of them. I even modeled some of them for Kent. Thanks, Teri!! I know that I will be wearing these alot!!
Aaron and Audra were here over the weekend. Audra brought me some comfy clothes to wear during chemo and a book. Her mother sent flowers. I am getting spoiled (but I like being spoiled)! We did have a great time with them. Of course we had to go to Harry's and Trader Joe's. We had beef bourgandy for dinner (which was from a cookbook Lucia gave me). It was delicious! Thank you, Lucia!!
Well, all for now. Thursday, I go for genetic gene counseling to see about getting tested for that. I will let you know how that goes. Love you all, Deb
Sounds like there is going to be some rough roads ahead, but the nurse I saw today told me they really work with you and monitor you all the time. I have to go back the day after each chemo and get Neulasta put in. That is supposed to help build the blood so you don't get run down (the most vulnerable time is 7-14 days after the chemo treatment). This lets you go back to your next treatment hopefully with plenty of red and white blood cells.
Yesterday, I got a surprise in the mail. Teri Nelson sent me a whole bunch of head covers. They are so cute. She did good pickin' them out! I loved everyone of them. I even modeled some of them for Kent. Thanks, Teri!! I know that I will be wearing these alot!!
Aaron and Audra were here over the weekend. Audra brought me some comfy clothes to wear during chemo and a book. Her mother sent flowers. I am getting spoiled (but I like being spoiled)! We did have a great time with them. Of course we had to go to Harry's and Trader Joe's. We had beef bourgandy for dinner (which was from a cookbook Lucia gave me). It was delicious! Thank you, Lucia!!
Well, all for now. Thursday, I go for genetic gene counseling to see about getting tested for that. I will let you know how that goes. Love you all, Deb
Sunday, January 27, 2008
The Port
Just wanted to let you all know that I am having a port put in on February 5. I will go to the hospital at 5:30 a.m. and they will have me in a surgery room because they have to monitor the port going into the vein. It will be placed under my right collarbone just above the right breast. When I have chemo, they won't have to stick my veins each time and this also helps with the vein not collapsing. I will be going to a place soon and get fitted for a wig!! Now, I am not big on wearing wigs, but I think I would feel better in a wig going out to church or a nice restaurant. I am sure most of the time I will wear hats and scarves. I just can't imagine looking in the mirror and seeing my bald head! Yuck! Well, this is about all the info I have for now. I love hearing from you all. Deb
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Chemo update
Today was the visit to Dr. Andrews, my oncologist. We have the game plan down on how the chemo treatments will work out. I will have 2 different parts. The first part will be Cytoxan and Adriamycin. I will go every 2 weeks for 4 times (eight weeks). Then the second part will be Taxal every 2 weeks for 4 times (another eight weeks). He said I will definitely have total hair loss. I gotta tell you I am not looking forward to this at all! The only thing making this tolerable is the fact that I have friends who will come and be with me. Otherwise, it would be too overwhelming! I will be having a port put in on my right side thru which they will give the chemo. I have to have an echo cardiogram to make sure my heart can take all this. I better start exercising again!! I am also going to talk to a gene counselor regarding having the gene test to see if I am likely to get breast cancer again, or if Alison could be passed the gene. The reason you have to talk to a counselor is just in case they determine that you might get cancer for sure again, many women opt to go ahead and have their breasts removed. They help you make that decision. When Kent and I left the doctor's office, I felt rather down in the dumps, just knowing what lies ahead. But, I am trying to stay upbeat. It is especially difficult with Kent's current job situation. If you are a prayin' person, please say prayers that he finds a job very quickly. Alison will be down here in May to start work with Ernst and Young CPA firm. It will give me something to look forward to. American Idol is on tonight! I love watching the tryouts! I will write something tomorrow after my appt. at the surgeon's office for the port consult. Take care. Love, Deb
Friday, January 18, 2008
Jan. 18, 2008 Update
Well, this is not a good way to start the new year. But, Tuesday, Kent and his boss parted ways. Kent could not please him hard as he tried. The man was a bully and had no heart at all. But, as Aaron said, I think the Lord put you in Marietta because of the good health care you are getting, and you got health insurance when you needed it most. Hopefully, a more perfect job will happen for Kent. We are both devastated by all of this, but we do have faith and I feel good vibes for him. He has already had some contacts and conversations. Please keep us in your prayers. We are willing to relocate as we really do not have any ties down here. It would just be hard to sell the house, but I am sure that would also happen.
I had a follow up today with the radiation doctor. Everything looked good. He reiterated my chance of survival which is 95%. He told me that there is grade 1, 2, and 3 cancer, and 3 is the most aggressive, and that is what I had. But the good news is it was small and caught early. But, chemo is what will destroy any remaining cancer cells that could be floating thru my body. He said there is a better chance of my right breast getting cancer than getting it in my left breast again, so that is another reason for chemo. He said my oncologist, Dr. Andrews, will be the most important doctor and I will see him often. I will find out on Tuesday what the plan is for me. I am just ready to get it started!
Well, I know I need to keep positive, and I hope you all do as well -- send me those good vibrations.
I had a follow up today with the radiation doctor. Everything looked good. He reiterated my chance of survival which is 95%. He told me that there is grade 1, 2, and 3 cancer, and 3 is the most aggressive, and that is what I had. But the good news is it was small and caught early. But, chemo is what will destroy any remaining cancer cells that could be floating thru my body. He said there is a better chance of my right breast getting cancer than getting it in my left breast again, so that is another reason for chemo. He said my oncologist, Dr. Andrews, will be the most important doctor and I will see him often. I will find out on Tuesday what the plan is for me. I am just ready to get it started!
Well, I know I need to keep positive, and I hope you all do as well -- send me those good vibrations.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Thanks, friends!
I just want to thank you all for your nice comments and emails. If anything positive comes out of all this, I think it will be that I have reconnected with some old friends! Not that I ever felt we were really apart, but it is nice to be chatting again!
Well, Kent and I ended up not going out for Mexican last Friday. I had made chili that day (before the balloon removal), and it just sounded so good, we ate chili. But, we did go to the movies after dinner and saw Charlie Wilson's War. We did not really like it that much. Tom Hanks did play a pretty good Texan though!
I also have to tell you that the balloon removal HURT LIKE HELL! They had to pull it out of the incision. Wow that was painful! Thank goodness it only lasted a few seconds. Then they took Derma glue and glued me back together. My left breast looks like it has fought a war all by itself! I have three incisions healing there!! I feel like I am on vacation this week. I have no appointments or treatments!
Yesterday, I got my hair cut. I went to a new salon that my friend, Anne Manning recommended to me. It was really nice. They even give complementary hand massages complete with a wax treatment to all their color clients. I am going back on Thursday to have a pumpkin facial peel with some massaging included. It lasts 90 minutes. I think I deserve it, don't you??!!
Saturday, my friend Genia will be here. I will be going to the Atlanta Market with her to help her by for the store. Hmm, I wonder if I will see anything I might want!! Do ya think?? I told her to bring me a Trapp Wild Currant candle. It is my favorite, and I havn't found a place that is close to me to buy Trapp candles. We plan on doing some antiquing while she is here too.
So, if you all don't here from me for a few days, you know that I will be shopppppppppppppping!
Have a blessed day! Love ya, Deb
Well, Kent and I ended up not going out for Mexican last Friday. I had made chili that day (before the balloon removal), and it just sounded so good, we ate chili. But, we did go to the movies after dinner and saw Charlie Wilson's War. We did not really like it that much. Tom Hanks did play a pretty good Texan though!
I also have to tell you that the balloon removal HURT LIKE HELL! They had to pull it out of the incision. Wow that was painful! Thank goodness it only lasted a few seconds. Then they took Derma glue and glued me back together. My left breast looks like it has fought a war all by itself! I have three incisions healing there!! I feel like I am on vacation this week. I have no appointments or treatments!
Yesterday, I got my hair cut. I went to a new salon that my friend, Anne Manning recommended to me. It was really nice. They even give complementary hand massages complete with a wax treatment to all their color clients. I am going back on Thursday to have a pumpkin facial peel with some massaging included. It lasts 90 minutes. I think I deserve it, don't you??!!
Saturday, my friend Genia will be here. I will be going to the Atlanta Market with her to help her by for the store. Hmm, I wonder if I will see anything I might want!! Do ya think?? I told her to bring me a Trapp Wild Currant candle. It is my favorite, and I havn't found a place that is close to me to buy Trapp candles. We plan on doing some antiquing while she is here too.
So, if you all don't here from me for a few days, you know that I will be shopppppppppppppping!
Have a blessed day! Love ya, Deb
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Blog is set
Hey everyone,
Sorry for the constant changes in the layout of the site. We have been trying out a few different templates and upon mom approval this is the one we will stick with.
Also I added a call button on the blog on the right hand side. If you click on the button and then put in your name and phone number it will call your phone and then call my parents house phone. I mostly put it on there for people who do not have their number, but anyone can use it. It is free for you and free for us (standard cell phone rates apply).
Thanks
Aaron
Sorry for the constant changes in the layout of the site. We have been trying out a few different templates and upon mom approval this is the one we will stick with.
Also I added a call button on the blog on the right hand side. If you click on the button and then put in your name and phone number it will call your phone and then call my parents house phone. I mostly put it on there for people who do not have their number, but anyone can use it. It is free for you and free for us (standard cell phone rates apply).
Thanks
Aaron
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Radiation Update
Well, day 4 of my 5 day radiation treatment is done! I have 2 treatments left for Friday, and then they take the balloon out! That is the worst part -- living with the balloon. Talk about firm breasts, boy my left one is showing off for the right one! The balloon is very hard, and then your body senses that something foreign is there and fills in around it with fluid. It really isn't painful except to try and sleep on that side. I met 2 ladies today, one had stage 3 and the other stage 4 breast cancer. Neither of them had regular mammograms. So, ladies, all I can say is be diligent about having regular mammograms, because it makes a world of difference! I think Kent and I will go out and celebrate Friday night with some Mexican food! I will let you all know how the balloon removal goes. Love ya all, Deb
Comment Problems
Hey everyone,
My mom informed me that some people may have had issues posting comments. I changed some settings to allow posts from anyone, so there is no longer a requirement to set up a google account or log in. I hope this resolves any issues.
If you want to leave a comment just click on the part below the post that says how many comments there are and then type your comment. After that you can click on Nickname and put whatever name you want the comment to show up under.
I have also added myself as an author to the blog. So if there are any issues regarding the blog feel free to email me at arosenbury at pcsopen dot com.
Thanks,
Aaron
My mom informed me that some people may have had issues posting comments. I changed some settings to allow posts from anyone, so there is no longer a requirement to set up a google account or log in. I hope this resolves any issues.
If you want to leave a comment just click on the part below the post that says how many comments there are and then type your comment. After that you can click on Nickname and put whatever name you want the comment to show up under.
I have also added myself as an author to the blog. So if there are any issues regarding the blog feel free to email me at arosenbury at pcsopen dot com.
Thanks,
Aaron
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Finally, everything is set up for my blog. This is pretty cool. As you all know, I am NOT a computer person (like my son)! Anyway, I just wanted to give you an update as to what has been happening since we moved to Marietta. I saw an Oncologist on Nov. 30. His name is Dr. Andrews and I really liked him. He told me I would need a surgeon first, so he called Dr. Fine who could see me on the following Monday. I had told some of my friends that I would be seeing this guy on Monday, and I got a phone call from Teri Nelson who told me she was coming down. What I did not know was that she was planning on being here in time to go to my appt. with me! It was so great to have her here because, as you can probably imagine, your head is spinning getting so much information! She was able to go along, take notes, and help me remember things! I really like Dr. Fine. He is all business, but is supposed to be one of the finest surgeons on breast cancer in the Southeast. Now, I need to backup for a minute, because how I found him was thru Dr. Andrews, who was recommended to me by Dr. John Peach in Nashville. He and his wife, Dawn, our dear friends of ours and it helped so much to have him call Andrews office and get me in FAST! So, back to being at Dr. Fine's office. He told me he wanted me to have an Breast MRI before surgery if he could get me in. This would tell him if there was any occult cancer in the right breast, and possibly if there was any lymph node activity. The surgery was scheduled for Dec. 12 at 9:30 in the morning. I had to be at the hospital at 6:15 so they could inject a radioactive dye into the left breast which would track the lymph nodes and they would be able to remove them easier. SO, Dawn Peach decided she could come down for the surgery. Boy, that was a life saver! She came down here armed with casseroles, ingredients for soup, and ready to cook! We had a great dinner the night before surgery at The Buckhead Diner. It really helped to have her support here for Kent and I. The next day we went to the hospital and we even found things to laugh about while waiting for the surgery. When I woke up, Kent and Dawn came into my room, and they were smiling ear to ear. MY LYMPH NODES WERE CLEAR! THE MARGINS AROUND THE BREAST TISSUE WERE CLEAR! That was the BEST news. Later that day, I realized I had carried around a huge burden on my shoulders worrying about that, but God took care of me! I felt so damn good! It is hard to explain the feeling. So, since then, I had a balloon implanted in my left breast to get radiation. I go 2 times a day for 5 days. So far I have had 2 days of treatments. I will finish this Friday and get the balloon taken out. I will see Dr. Andrews on Jan. 22 to go over my plans for chemo. Yes, I have to have chemo because of the type of cancer I have, but my survival rate is very high. So, I think I will start chemo on Jan. 28, but I will let you all know because now I have my blog!! Hopefully, the rest of the updates will not be so long! I hope you all have a Happy Healthy New Year! Love, Deb
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