tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52175993731239971132024-03-12T21:18:29.164-04:00In This Together, Breast Cancer SupportChristiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09860792072543240351noreply@blogger.comBlogger355125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-69325423027173265222014-02-09T00:19:00.000-05:002018-12-12T13:35:28.006-05:00Quilt of Hope<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.emblibrary.com/el/colorchange.aspx?productid=d8127&orderdetailsource=7789720"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UpJdgTBMOtQ/UvcJqY-Q1kI/AAAAAAAAJM0/4JOSutqO6F8/s1600/IMG_4836.jpg" width="198" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><u><a href="http://www.emblibrary.com/el/colorchange.aspx?productid=d8127&orderdetailsource=7789720">Awareness Ribbon Tree</a></u></td></tr>
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A few months before I was diagnosed with BC (breast cancer) I had purchased a beautiful new Baby Lock embroidery sewing machine. I enjoyed making warm flannel quilts for my family for any occasion. But when I got sick I didn't have the stamina to sew and really missed it.<br />
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While I was in the final stretch with radiation last summer I began thinking about a Quilt of Hope. I decided it was finally time to make one for myself. I found a beautiful pink ribbon embroidery design and began planning around that theme. After Christmas I had all the fabric and began cutting and piecing my Quilt of Hope.<br />
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Spoiler Alert: I'm Fine!<br />
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By the end of January I was almost finished with my quilt when I had my post-treatment mammogram. I sat, waiting for quite awhile, then was taken to the radiologist's office.<br />
The first time I met Dr. Davis was 14 months ago when I was diagnosed. It was deja vu all over again and I wanted to run!<br />
She showed me where the tumor used to be and then zoomed in on these specks that looked like salt. She explained that they weren't there 14 months ago, nor where they there at the time of surgery 9 months ago. She wanted to schedule a biopsy for the following day on Friday, January 31st.<br />
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Last weekend was surreal. I didn't want to tell anyone because I had put so many people through hell by sharing my journey the first time. I finally told my children but couldn't bring myself to tell my parents. They have been through so much and I just didn't want to worry them. I couldn't do any heavy lifting so didn't work on my quilt. But I started doing a lot of "Stress Baking", a term my friend Kristin shared with me, and tried out new recipes just to get my mind off the biopsy.<br />
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The doctor's office called me four days later and said "everything is fine"! The 6 spots were calcium deposits formed during radiation. My boob is broken again. Bruised but healing well.<br />
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When I got home from work that day, I finished my quilt and slept peacefully that night, wrapped in Hope, Love, Courage and Faith.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CKb2MLQgW24/UvcKA4RXJXI/AAAAAAAAJNE/yxHiFTCHS3M/s1600/IMG_4847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CKb2MLQgW24/UvcKA4RXJXI/AAAAAAAAJNE/yxHiFTCHS3M/s1600/IMG_4847.jpg" width="145" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Flannel Quilt of Hope</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vHdsdW--ZCA/UvcJ103ZVGI/AAAAAAAAJM8/knTLeezZAlM/s1600/IMG_4837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vHdsdW--ZCA/UvcJ103ZVGI/AAAAAAAAJM8/knTLeezZAlM/s1600/IMG_4837.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Embroidered words of encouragement</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZqkDmHvdK8/UvcKKM90p7I/AAAAAAAAJNM/1IwrfdbjvdY/s1600/IMG_4831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZqkDmHvdK8/UvcKKM90p7I/AAAAAAAAJNM/1IwrfdbjvdY/s1600/IMG_4831.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Backed with soft pink fleece</td></tr>
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Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09860792072543240351noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-42555624451661781462013-11-01T17:58:00.000-04:002014-02-09T00:23:48.094-05:00I Am<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8zRDv6MJYPc/UnQhZiC41HI/AAAAAAAAIXI/l3VQHGY5Wo4/s1600/thrive.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8zRDv6MJYPc/UnQhZiC41HI/AAAAAAAAIXI/l3VQHGY5Wo4/s200/thrive.PNG" height="198" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.breastcancerwellness.org/pink-pages/"><i>Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine</i></a></td></tr>
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<br />
One year ago today my whole world changed when I reluctantly joined the Breast Cancer Club. I've had mixed emotions all day. Sometimes I'd be on the verge of tears. I could feel them behind my eyes, pressuring me into flooding my classroom. Then I'd get so busy that I forgot I'd even been on this journey. I've changed a lot in these past 12 months, but in a good way.<br />
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I am healthy and have more energy than I did a year ago.<br />
I am grateful for having a professional, compassionate medical team. <br />
I am whole again, even though a piece of me was taken.<br />
I am blessed to have such a loving family and friends care for me.<br />
I am happy that I have my life back and time to spend with the ones I love.<br />
I am beautiful. I base this purely on my school photo; the best one taken in 27 years!<br />
I am thankful for having this experience.<br />
I am a better person because of breast cancer.<br />
I am looking forward to where this journey will continue to take me.<br />
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There is so much to do and so many others to help. </div>
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Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09860792072543240351noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-62816717481778743962013-10-31T20:37:00.001-04:002013-10-31T20:37:50.135-04:00Tamoxifen - Day 50It's a miracle! The effects of my last estrogen blocker, Arimidex, is practically out of my body. And, boy, do I feel so much better! <br />
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I don't think I will get to 100%, but 50 days into the change of meds, I sure am feeling like me again. <br />
Celebrated with a new cut, color and style!<br />
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preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-76920981244263829152013-10-14T13:45:00.000-04:002014-05-01T14:00:13.976-04:00News Worthy<a href="http://www.ohio.com/news/jewell-cardwell-sisters-share-their-breast-cancer-journeys-and-support-others-1.436628">Jewell Cardwell: Sisters share their breast cancer journeys and support others</a><br />
By Jewell Cardwell <br />
Beacon Journal columnist<br />
Published: October 13, 2013 - 10:57 PM<br />
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<img src="http://www.ohio.com/polopoly_fs/1.436627.1381719426!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_270/cardwell14cut.jpg" /><br />
Breast Cancer Survivors sisters, Carol Ford, left and Christie Hickman.(Family photo)<br />
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In recognition of October being National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, two local sisters are hosting an “I Won” event to celebrate their battles and recent victories.<br />
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Here’s a little of their story:<br />
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“My sister (Carol Landon Ford) and I are breast cancer survivors,” Christie (Landon) Hickman wrote.<br />
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“Carol finished her treatment last year and I finished on July 25th. We are hosting a breast cancer event (this week) with 30 of our close friends to celebrate our win against breast cancer and share the importance of breast health.” Christie, 54, and Carol, 51, both reside in Ellet a street apart.<br />
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“We both had amazing, life-changing experiences during our journeys through breast cancer and met the most compassionate people,” Christie continued. “We created an organization — In This Together, Breast Cancer Support — to help others going through breast cancer treatment. We offer handmade ‘hug blankets’ to patients and The Giving Doll to the children of patients. Jan Householder is providing us with the dolls made with pink hair and shoes!”<br />
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The simply amazing Householder, of Wadsworth, is the founder of The Giving Doll Ministry, which gives volunteer-made soft-sculpture dolls to children suffering major medical problems, abuse, neglect or loss of a parent, or who have a military parent stationed in harm’s way.<br />
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Both were treated at Akron General Medical Center’s McDowell Cancer Center and had Dr. Esther Rehmus as their oncologist and Dr. Jessica Partin as their surgeon. Carol and Christie breathed a giant sigh of relief a couple of weeks ago when their mother underwent a successful breast procedure.<br />
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Christie, who is so passionate about her project, shared that she has been “adding names of those touched by cancer that you have mentioned in your column on our ribbon. I update this ribbon with new names on a weekly basis. People can request first names of fighters, survivors or the taken to be added by contacting us.” The virtual ribbon is located on the organization’s website at <a href="http://www.inthistogetherbcs.org/">www.inthistogetherbcs.org</a>.<br />
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Christie and Carol can also be reached at <a href="mailto:2christiehickman@gmail.com">2christiehickman@gmail.com</a> and <a href="mailto:2carolford@gmail.com">2carolford@gmail.com</a>or visit their blog at <a href="http://inthistogetherbcs.blogspot.com/">http://inthistogetherbcs.blogspot.com</a>.<br />
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Jewell Cardwell can be reached at 330-996-3567 or <a href="mailto:jcardwell@thebeaconjournal.com">jcardwell@thebeaconjournal.com</a>Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09860792072543240351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-68811145811450452102013-09-28T00:23:00.000-04:002014-01-15T19:51:40.677-05:00Planning Our First Event<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Christie is a creative woman who has many, many wonderful ideas. When she feels a project coming on, the wheels start spinning, ideas start flying and thoughts are written down on anything handy. <br />
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See that book of notes? If you remember, you are lucky....(joke).....what I was going to say: If you remember, there is such a thing as chemo brain. It is hard to hold onto a thought. We just have to write down everything! One page has a sentence written on it, but it is upside down on the page. It was funny to watch her when she noticed it, "huh, wonder how that happened."<br />
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See that phone in hand? It has the latest technology, apps, internet connection and all. Constantly ready to keep the ideas rolling ... at all 24 hours of the day.<br />
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The current project is our very first event ~ A celebration of our win against breast cancer. I can guarantee that with Christie's ability as a public speaker and teacher, this will be informative with a flair of wit, laughter and thought-provoking revelations.<br />
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<i>So, where do I come in?</i></div>
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Well, I'm the "sounding-board", the ying to her yang, and the organizer of these ideas. Not the planner, (not going to happen), the organizer. My hundred years of office work will come in handy as we begin to lift off the non-profit inthistogether.org<br />
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Oh, how I love Microsoft OneNote!!! (check it out if you haven't seen it). That is my job this weekend. Creating our notebook, sync it on sis's computer and teach her how to navigate.<br />
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<i>She is going to LOVE it! </i></div>
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After this event, we will welcome feedback, collect more ideas, tweak it here and there and then .... take it on the road. <br />
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In between all of that, we are looking for our Board of Directors. <br />
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The divine appointments over the past few weeks have multiplied. We are both meeting women who want to get involved by using their God-given talents. As they tell us their stories of their own journey or of a loved one, an instant connection is made. And, of course, a hug is freely given ~<br />
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<br />preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-87844579443314121652013-09-21T02:12:00.000-04:002013-09-21T02:12:17.357-04:00Tamoxifen - 1 weekOne o'clock in the morning - after waking up ump-teen times, I decided to stay up for a bit. Took 2 more pain pills and logged on. I've had some inquiries about the effects of the Tamoxifen. Can't say it is any better than Arimidex ... yet, it's only been a week. <br />
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The pain is intense and I just wish I could describe it in a way to make myself understood. I'm trying not to let this show at work and when I come home in the evening, I collapse.<br />
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My bones feel like they have been smashed by a sledge-hammer. The shredded pieces like glass in my hands, arms, knees, legs, feet, ankles. Today, my left elbow feels like I hit it against something hard. I'm still bruising very easily. I'm hunched over like I'm 110 years old. It is worse in the morning, and now seems to carry throughout the day. I'm starting to have menstrual pains (I don't have a uterus and no cycles for 11 years). What's that about? My surgery sites (original surgery, plus nodes under my right arm, and reconstruction on my left side) all produce stabbing pain. Sometimes the pain hits unexpectedly that I "yelp" out loud. That can be embarrassing in public.<br />
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I tenderly hold my hands, softly rubbing to help ease the stiffness. My neck and back ache so much.<br />
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So, this is the medicine to keep cancer away. It sucks.</div>
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I've completed year 1 of 5 ~ can I endure 4 more?</div>
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<em>I'm falling apart</em></div>
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<br />preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-66214575837904513812013-09-14T16:10:00.000-04:002013-09-14T16:10:28.540-04:00Arimidex vs. TamoxifenI have been taking Arimidex since August 2012. As the months go by, my pains are more extreme. My husband is the only one I really "show" just how bad. After all, I'm in remission. I should be "all better now". That is what most folks think. They don't understand that poison streamed through my body killing cancer cells AND my good cells. It takes time to repair, it takes time to get your strength back. <br />
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<i>I don't mean to sound so whiny</i></div>
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I am very grateful that I have made it this far through "my journey". I do try to have a smile on my face, stay out of "my bubble" and focus on others (thank God for the type of job I have), and I get up every day to go to work. I have to. The mornings are the hardest .... that is when the pain is the worst. <br />
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So, Sept 12 I had a visit with my favorite oncologist to discuss my meds. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Quality of Live VS Recurrence </span></div>
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Taking the estrogen blocker will give me a 40% chance of keeping cancer away .... at least this type of cancer. I'm HER2 protein positive and estrogen receptor positive. Just a little aggressive and mean-spirited.<br />
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Doc changed my meds to Tamoxifen, stating that I should start to feel better in about a month and the bone pain will not be a side effect. She said that the worry would be blood clots, uterus cancer (don't have one of those, so I should be good on that count). I came home and looked it up on <a href="http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drugreview-4497-tamoxifen+Oral.aspx?drugid=4497&drugname=tamoxifen+Oral">WebMD</a> to read the reviews from other patients. Looks like the same kind of complaints as Arimidex patients.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>They don't call it "practicing medicine" for nothing!</i></span></div>
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I've given my life to God and I will give Him this too. My church family gave me a prayer cloth anointed with oil and their prayers. It is precious to me. <br />
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I'll be sure to keep you posted .... still living in the moment, each day at a time.<br />
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What Rock do you stand on?<br />
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<br />preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-20666107939495524372013-08-19T22:43:00.000-04:002013-08-19T22:43:44.258-04:00Thrive!Tonight was a long time coming .... A celebration dinner with my good friend "M" and my sister, Christie. M & I had planned to get together after our treatments were done to celebrate coming through to the other side (M was diagnosed 2 days before I was). When Christie was diagnosed, we then decided to wait until the three of us could come together and make a toast to success!<br />
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Tonight was it! Panara's.... yummmmm</div>
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I was thrilled to introduce the 2 of them and tickled pink when we giggled like school girls as we shared our more humorous stories. And the conversation doesn't always have to be about cancer. We shared about our families, our learnings from our experiences and how it changed our outlook in life (ok, alot of it was "because of cancer") and just enjoyed each other's company. <br />
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Chemo brain was a huge part of our laughter as one of us would start a thought and then forget what we were going to say... and then the other 2 would have to try to remember key words of what was being said in order for the memory to jolt back into the moment. If you don't get it, don't worry about it! It truly is a memory loss that only a chemo cocktail can promote!<br />
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I thought it very interesting when M said she didn't think of herself as a survivor, but as a thriver. <br />
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No matter what your circumstance</div>
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<em>Everyone should strive to thrive!</em> </div>
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preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-21898826519875373502013-08-02T18:06:00.000-04:002013-12-27T00:11:35.400-05:00Happily Ever After<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8nYETxE7h7M/UfwrefsoXLI/AAAAAAAAIOE/uOj9N5VhEko/s1600/image0-008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8nYETxE7h7M/UfwrefsoXLI/AAAAAAAAIOE/uOj9N5VhEko/s320/image0-008.jpg" width="197" /></a>For several years I had been hoping one of our wedding anniversaries would be worthy of a cruise. When the 20th anniversary rolled around in 2008 Richard had lost his job, we'd lost my sister, Cathy, among several other loved ones and frankly, didn't feel like celebrating.<br />
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So, I set my sights on our 25th anniversary, but inadvertently joined the BC Club. When we calculated all of my treatments and discovered I'd be finished 2 weeks before this special anniversary, neither one of us could even begin planning something that far in the future, especially when we didn't know what the future would hold.<br />
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Yesterday we decided to get away for the weekend even though I'm feeling kind of tired from the radiation. So, this morning I found a <a href="http://ravenwoodcastle.com/">castle in Hocking Hills</a> with an enchanted forest full of cabins. I am so happy that we made it this far and have each other. I am a very lucky girl to have my knight in shining armor, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health. Now, I need to go pack!Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09860792072543240351noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-2060990162634096052013-07-28T21:00:00.000-04:002013-07-28T21:00:17.197-04:00I Know Who Holds TomorrowA friend of mine shared this with me. I just thought it was perfect for everyone and especially those who are going through cancer diagnosis. <br />
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preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-75893261866544031482013-07-27T22:12:00.000-04:002013-07-27T22:12:17.405-04:00Follow-up AppointmentsThe morning of July 23 was certainly busy. My follow-up appointment with the plastic surgeon was 8:30 am. He announced that the tissue sent to pathology came back clear. All Right! The swelling has gone down some and he was pleased with the work he had done. He left the room and the nurse proceeded to remove the surgery tape with tweezers and small shears, and snip the long pieces of stitches. I left there feeling a little tender and raw. <br />
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No more appointments for the plastic surgeon! <em>Yay!</em><br />
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I made my way to work and then had to leave again for my follow-up appointment with my oncologist. It has been awhile since being there and I walked into the place to see much change ... reconstruction.... the place had more room and organization. Doc was also impressed with the breast reduction. <br />
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"No more leaning to the left!" she said. <em>Funny Doc!</em> </div>
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We discussed my current state of being as she recorded it on the computer system. I saw my history of the last 18 months and we had a good chat. The smile on her face was enough for me! <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
I can remember her saying,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em> "You will be able to fire me in 5 years".</em> </div>
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My next appointment isn't until November 2013. <em>Nice!</em><br />
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I feel like I have come out of the depths of hell and am now renewed as my healing continues with each new day.<br />
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May peace be with you ~<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4qEKoq--zQs/UfR7ow0hKqI/AAAAAAAAGjI/Erc26MZjDj8/s1600/Butterfly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4qEKoq--zQs/UfR7ow0hKqI/AAAAAAAAGjI/Erc26MZjDj8/s1600/Butterfly.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-76598775877288369682013-07-25T19:25:00.000-04:002013-12-27T00:06:52.981-05:00Finished With Treatment<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ld_VufgQR8g/UfRQZ0gc1gI/AAAAAAAAIMg/jC-bkYZYrT0/s1600/IMG_7804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ld_VufgQR8g/UfRQZ0gc1gI/AAAAAAAAIMg/jC-bkYZYrT0/s320/IMG_7804.JPG" width="320" /></a>We celebrated the last day of radiation treatment on Thursday, July 25th. I asked Carol if I could start tracking my anniversary. This would be easy to remember because it's Dad's birthday.<br />
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I bought an angel food cake and made pink Cool Whip frosting. I couldn't help noticing how the cake resembled my broken boob:<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
The hole in the center is where the tumor use to be. The surface showed the battle scars and unevenness. And it's pink from the radiation burns!</div>
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This has been a long journey but I've learned a lot about myself. I am a better person because of this experience and can only look forward to the new normal. They say that when you have cancer everyone around you is affected. I'm so lucky to have my family by my side. I couldn't have made it through the journey without them. There are many friends who were affected by my cancer too. They kept me in their thoughts and prayers and encouraged my family along the way. It was tough for everyone.<br />
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But we made it!Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09860792072543240351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-53653207752339779182013-07-18T10:19:00.000-04:002013-07-28T10:21:05.291-04:00Woe Is Me<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5gOsDOEP-JQ/UfUobz8XMaI/AAAAAAAAIMw/Ut4RnXuvg5U/s1600/kitten.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5gOsDOEP-JQ/UfUobz8XMaI/AAAAAAAAIMw/Ut4RnXuvg5U/s1600/kitten.jpg" /></a>I know it's been a while but I feel like my brain is fried. It's difficult to write more than a few words at a time. I think the fatigue is starting.<br />
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I'm still getting radiation but only have 5 more to go! I look like I have a sunburn and sun poisoning on the entire breast, chest/neck and shoulder/back area. It's very itchy and sore but should start clearing up soon. I'm looking forward to getting this part over.<br />
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I've been so busy with a new endeavor and convinced Carol to be a part of it too. We are finishing the last details of a new website and combining our blogs into one. You know how you've asked if you could do anything to help? Well this will give you the opportunity you've been looking for! We will unveil the entire project in just a few days!Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09860792072543240351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-46629233103879465792013-07-14T18:14:00.000-04:002013-07-28T21:08:26.592-04:00Back to Work!Tomorrow is my first day back to work since June 28. Getting butterflies in my tummy, which seems to happen after being off for awhile. Never know what I'm going to face when I get there (kinda hard to describe). But, I'm as ready as I'm ever going to be! <br />
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This month makes 1 year since my radiation treatments ended. I think that is long enough to make a decision. Most of the bleeding/seeping has stopped, and the bruising is slowly clearing up. Still looks like Frankenstein! I don't regret the procedure, even though sometimes it feels like someone hit me with a baseball bat (too graphic?)<br />
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~~~~~~~~~~<br />
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Saturday, we had a wonderful get together with extended family from my father's side. It was great to see everyone again....it seems once a year now. There is also an emptiness in our hearts for the ones that have moved far away and for the ones who are now in spirit. The world keeps turning and we keep getting older. <br />
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It reminds me of one of my favorite songs that I have posted before. It makes you think about your own legacy.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/2KEe-dA3a4M?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/artist/nichole-nordeman?feature=watch_video_title" id="watch-headline-show-title">Nichole Nordeman</a> - Legacy </div>
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My sister and I are developing a website. Christie is the brains of the operation and my husband is working on logo ideas. We hope that it will be helpful and hopeful to breast cancer patients. It is a need to "give back" and to help others going through the brutal journey. So....stayed tuned!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I-Wmb2O7vaI/UeMeszm_w2I/AAAAAAAAGg0/qkWu5FfzzBk/s1600/HS138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I-Wmb2O7vaI/UeMeszm_w2I/AAAAAAAAGg0/qkWu5FfzzBk/s640/HS138.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christie's green thumb</td></tr>
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preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-27153446857298500092013-07-09T14:18:00.000-04:002013-07-21T16:59:03.884-04:00Follow-up from ReconstructionMy follow-up appointment was this morning. It lasted all of 5 minutes. He was amazed at the bruising. Good news, no signs of infection. Just remembered, I forgot to ask about the pathology report. I'm sure it is fine or else he would have brought it up.<br /><br />I will have to go back about 3 more times. At one of those appointments, the surgery tape will be removed and the stitches. Doc said that it will look more like the other breast in about 3 months or so. <br /><br />Would I do it again? Probably. The weight on my shoulders and back does feel lighter. My bra straps aren't leaving crevices on the top of my shoulders!<br /><br />Kind of wonder if I should have done the other side as well. Guess I won't know until I'm fully healed. Will they really be symmetrical?<br /><br /><a href="http://somethingaboutchristie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">My sister</a> is managing her radiation treatments. She is a real trouper!<br />No need for a scarf anymore! What a beauty!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i4Ve9XiUW8Q/UdxRZhyRa4I/AAAAAAAAGgk/mFdlZqoervE/s1600/hks547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i4Ve9XiUW8Q/UdxRZhyRa4I/AAAAAAAAGgk/mFdlZqoervE/s640/hks547.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me & Christie</td></tr></tbody></table>Next follow-up is July 23. Same day as my oncology visit .... wonder what Doc Esther is gonna think of my "boob job".<br />preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-6173861764788068462013-07-03T13:10:00.000-04:002013-07-21T16:59:03.890-04:00Reconstruction - Post SurgeryHello all! Day 1 of post surgery. Yes, there is pain - plus, taking antibiotics as instructed.<br /><br />Last night, I was curious (who wouldn't be) and decided to peel away the bandages to see my ta-ta. Lots of blood on the gauze and I can see where the cuts were made. Still have the marker drawing on my chest (tic-tac-toe anybody?)<br /><br />I get to shower after 3:00 today!<br /><br />So, as I was exploring, I found an electrode on my hip from the EKG.....and I was worried they would leave something "inside" me during surgery! hahaha, I was lucky!<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CvzIHz4ictE/UdRQhTPFTEI/AAAAAAAAGgQ/ARAXQpV1Soc/s1600/EKG101_fixed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CvzIHz4ictE/UdRQhTPFTEI/AAAAAAAAGgQ/ARAXQpV1Soc/s640/EKG101_fixed.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Electrode laying on the lid of my laptop</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Amazingly, I didn't go to bed when I got home until after midnight. I woke up a lot too because I couldn't get comfortable. <br /><br />I don't regret doing this, not for vanity reasons, but for comfort. They don't make bras that come in 2 different cup sizes. (although that would be an interesting manufacturing business) Doc says the breast will start to look "normal" in 3 months or so. <br /><br />My follow-up appointment is July 9th. <br /><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: large;"></span></em> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: large;">Have a Safe & Happy 4th of July America!</span></em></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-28712536672496473782013-06-25T21:06:00.000-04:002013-07-21T16:59:03.896-04:00Pre-Surgery TestingTalk about walking down memory lane..... I started at the same place (building) where my diagnostic mammogram was done Dec 2011. <br /><br />First was the check-in with a nurse to ask a few more questions for my record. She did my vitals and then sent me across the hall for my EKG and blood work. A big kudos to Sheila who didn't even make me flinch. Two vials and she was done!<br /><br />Then I made the walk across to the other building to radiology. Now that really brought back memories. There, I had my chest x-ray.<br /><br />So, I'm pretty sure everything will check out okay.<br /><br />Ready for surgery, July 2<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7kZtizd3YnI/Uco-DlflywI/AAAAAAAAGgA/GeciNDWIfc8/s1600/Landscape451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7kZtizd3YnI/Uco-DlflywI/AAAAAAAAGgA/GeciNDWIfc8/s640/Landscape451.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-11138799343638808592013-06-24T19:16:00.000-04:002013-07-21T16:59:03.902-04:00Pre-AdmissionsThe hospital pre-admissions called me today to update all my information. She said the last surgery recorded was December 2011 .... lumpectomy. Yep, that sounds about right. That long ago? A lot of times, it seems like yesterday. <br /><br />I am to report to pre-surgery testing tomorrow at the same place I found out I had cancer. Glad she told me that because I planned to report to the place I had the port inserted. (would have been the wrong place)<br /><br />This little process here is taking me back to some memories. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">And that's what they are....memories.</span> </div><br />I try not to think about that "anvil-over-the-head" feeling. I'm in remission and want to stay right there!<br /><br />I'll be off work for a total of 12 days. Hope to hang out with Sis for some of those days. Looking forward to some R&R.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LDj8zcjv10o/UcjSzNUlprI/AAAAAAAAGfw/rtIdhHwVlcs/s1600/069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LDj8zcjv10o/UcjSzNUlprI/AAAAAAAAGfw/rtIdhHwVlcs/s640/069.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-63277144224317599952013-06-22T14:40:00.000-04:002013-07-23T09:11:32.357-04:00Glowing<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XXUCsRslHrM/UcXn6xCrELI/AAAAAAAAIGo/tCPTzXo_uiA/s1600/2013-06-19+11.51.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XXUCsRslHrM/UcXn6xCrELI/AAAAAAAAIGo/tCPTzXo_uiA/s320/2013-06-19+11.51.09.jpg" width="320" /></a>Yesterday was my 8th radiation treatment. I go in everyday except weekends. This is me, in all my naked glory, getting zapped in several different directions.<br />
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The radiation device rotates around the table to get these angles. It comes across from the right side (blue lines). Then moves to the upper right and shoots down into my collar bone, zapping the lymph nodes (red area). Then it moves underneath the table a shoots up through my shoulder blade (green area). And finally, up through the left side of my breast (blue).<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4iVYZq1H4fw/UcXqfnmaSnI/AAAAAAAAIG4/g39CPzM9bpc/s1600/2013-06-19+11.50.55-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4iVYZq1H4fw/UcXqfnmaSnI/AAAAAAAAIG4/g39CPzM9bpc/s200/2013-06-19+11.50.55-1.jpg" width="200" /></a>I've been using the breathing tube and am a pro at it now. See <a href="http://somethingaboutchristie.blogspot.com/2013/05/panic-attack.html#.UcXuMfkm7Qg">Panic Attack</a> about the training. With each deep breath I create space in my chest to protect my heart and lungs from radiation.<br />
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I should be finished with this treatment by the third week of July.<br />
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I will be glowing by then!<br />
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<br />Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09860792072543240351noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-52668261271167288312013-06-20T12:53:00.000-04:002013-07-21T16:59:03.908-04:00ReconstructionI finally decided to do it .... Reconstruction. <br /><br />Most people kinda give me a double-take when I tell them, "no, they aren't touching the affected side. They are taking care of the good side." I really don't want things stirred up if you know what I mean. The plastic surgeon said that it is more difficult to reconstruct skin damaged from radiation. Besides, it really isn't that bad. It's just much smaller. Ha! So, we are downsizing!<br /><br />June 25 - pre-surgery testing<br /><br />July 2 - Surgery<br /><br />Doc said recovery is 2 weeks. Since I have a desk job, just taking a week. <br /><br />No worries, no concerns, looking forward to some down time at home.<br /><br />I'll certainly let you know how things are going!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yUJuwNQ7KnI/UcMzGeLQ5UI/AAAAAAAAGfc/34AHgSutjag/s1600/pink+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yUJuwNQ7KnI/UcMzGeLQ5UI/AAAAAAAAGfc/34AHgSutjag/s640/pink+flowers.jpg" width="640" wya="true" /></a></div>preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-9448188067810196342013-06-18T22:40:00.000-04:002013-07-21T16:59:03.915-04:00A Shot of CortisoneHi all! I finally got some tests done (June 4) on my right knee to discover moderate arthritis aggravating my knee and making life difficult. It actually started with soreness and swelling in the back of my knee that my family doctor thought was a <a href="http://www.webmd.com/hw-popup/bakers-cyst" target="_blank">Baker's cyst</a>. The MRI and x-rays did not show a cyst....just a little bit of fluid. I met with an orthopedic doctor (June 7) who took a lot of time with me and diagnosed me and gave me a cortisone shot in the knee. I've never had one of those miracle shots before and WOW, it has provided such relief! <br /><br />Today, I had my first physical therapy session to learn how to build some core strength and begin on the road to recovery. I have sessions twice a week. It was so difficult to try to walk and exercise through all the pain throughout my body. The cortisone shot not only helped my knee, but a lot of other joints, aches & pains. <br /><br />Once I fulfill my sessions, I will be able to utilize the facility for FREE for a month! I like that :)<br /><br />This weekend is actually the first time I have felt better and felt like "me" in almost 2 years.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>A-MAZ-ING!!!!</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em></em> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><em></em> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><em></em> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dWpejQVH9lE/UcEW_BLSoJI/AAAAAAAAGe0/n5lniQ4Kk0g/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dWpejQVH9lE/UcEW_BLSoJI/AAAAAAAAGe0/n5lniQ4Kk0g/s640/005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><br />preciousdittohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10206207840903137302noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-8877135301002888132013-06-18T10:50:00.000-04:002013-07-21T14:06:11.197-04:00Dang HangnailI am always worried about getting the tiniest injury on my left arm. So when I found a hangnail on my index finger the other day I was afraid my arm would swell up and fall off. I have a long list of things I must now avoid to protect my arm and hand. Cutting my cuticles for instance. Getting a bug bite. Sticking myself while sewing. A burn while cooking. I can't get a sunburn, have dry skin, or move my arm in the same motion repeatedly.<br />
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<a href="http://www.livescience.com/26983-lymphatic-system.html">Lymphedema</a> - We are each born with between 8 - 50 lymph nodes under each arm. When we have some removed or damaged from radiation there is no way of knowing how many are left to carry out the job of the lymphatic system. If you have 50 and 5 are removed, then your body should be able to adapt. But if you only have 8 and 5 are removed, then you will be more susceptible to developing Lymphedema or swelling from lymphatic fluid. This can occur anytime after breast cancer surgery or radiation; even years later.<br />
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">Ok. Raise your hand if you know someone who went through breast cancer treatment. Below are several "handy" gift ideas to get that special person.</span><br />
<b><a href="http://www.americanmedical-id.com/marketplace/category_viewall.php?mastercategory=bracelets">Medical Alert Bracelet</a> </b>- Do not allow the surgical arm to be used for blood pressure check, blood draws or injections. Purchase and wear a bracelet as a reminder to all healthcare providers. I ordered pink now that I'm in the Breast Cancer Club.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kGOIR_x5_ic/Ub4Ano93AmI/AAAAAAAAIEc/7lo4eqxogzQ/s1600/bracelet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kGOIR_x5_ic/Ub4Ano93AmI/AAAAAAAAIEc/7lo4eqxogzQ/s1600/bracelet.JPG" /></a></div>
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<b>First Aid Kit </b>- My surgeon explained that if I get an injury of any kind, no matter how small, I must immediately wash with Dial soap, put Neosporin on and cover with a band aid. I now carry a first aid kit so I can take care of injuries quickly and have sunscreen and insect repellent available at all times. This is also a handy place to keep my elastic sleeve so I don't lose it.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0VwxjSsr1AQ/Ub4IvtVoeTI/AAAAAAAAIFg/7sDqQ33fXlI/s1600/IMG_5951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0VwxjSsr1AQ/Ub4IvtVoeTI/AAAAAAAAIFg/7sDqQ33fXlI/s320/IMG_5951.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b><b><a href="http://www.gloveablesinc.com/">Rubber Gloves</a></b> - I found these adorable gloves at <a href="http://www.hartvillehardware.com/the-new-hartville-hardware">Hartville Hardware</a> recently. It's important to protect your hands from harsh chemicals, detergent, hot water and accidentally cutting yourself with knives or broken glass.<br />
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<a href="http://www.laylagrayce.com/search.aspx?sortorder=&pages=all&keyword=gloves"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HOEt-FbTUuE/Ub4As3iEivI/AAAAAAAAIEk/QaKs_l9yHvk/s1600/gloves.JPG" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.mudglove.com/gloves/mudgauntlet.php">Gardening Gloves</a></b> - Protect your hands and arms with leather gardening gloves that have longer arm shields. (also found at Hartville Hardware).<br />
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<a href="http://www.laylagrayce.com/search.aspx?sortorder=&pages=all&keyword=gloves"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JIoeroLL4hE/Ub4BIEmR0-I/AAAAAAAAIEs/JBXQ2lknDwE/s320/mudgauntlet2.jpg" width="252" /></a></div>
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<b>Oven mitts</b> - Use well fitting, longer oven mitts when cooking to protect yourself from hot oil or steam, as well as handling cook wear in the oven. I'm currently designing a special pattern and testing fabrics to get the best fit. (this image is from<a href="http://pinterest.com/2christie77/"> Pinterest</a>)<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_YZFfbkbyDk/Ub4DQUeC7YI/AAAAAAAAIFE/YYYCSs8XCAM/s1600/il_570xN.193831305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_YZFfbkbyDk/Ub4DQUeC7YI/AAAAAAAAIFE/YYYCSs8XCAM/s320/il_570xN.193831305.jpg" width="254" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.joann.com/klutz-glove-large/zprd_09631474a/">Sewing/quilting guards</a></b> - I am going to get this steel woven "Klutz" glove for sewing and cutting quilt pieces. I will let you know how it works. Thimbles should be used for hand sewing.<br />
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<a href="http://www.joann.com/klutz-glove-large/zprd_09631474a/"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4rOVKLzNw_k/Ub4BOAkxbZI/AAAAAAAAIE0/XrABt7c-30Y/s1600/klutz+glove.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here are some other <a href="http://www.myextraordinarilyordinarylife.com/">great gift ideas from Lisa Howard</a></span></div>
Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09860792072543240351noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-29933226099475353642013-06-11T11:48:00.000-04:002013-07-21T13:06:12.108-04:00Setting Goals for Recovery<a href="http://www.amazon.com/After-Cancer-Treatment-Stronger-Hopkins/dp/0801884381" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2-BTdk9EuiI/Ubc_CAW3MtI/AAAAAAAAIEE/Y2cjmTr51LA/s200/life+after+cancer.jpg" width="200" /></a>Thursday was the last day of school. This sure was a tough year on so many levels. I just want to put it behind me and start all over in the fall.<br />
Friday was going to be a practice run through radiation but they called that morning to cancel because the machine was broken. We rescheduled for Monday. I was trying to get all psyched for this new treatment<br />
but they called again because the machine was still down. We will shoot for Wednesday.<br />
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I decided to do some homework from this new book I'm <strike>reading </strike> studying, After Cancer Treatment, by setting some short and long term goals for my health and well-being.Three areas that need consideration are Physical, Emotional and Support Systems. Physical Goals are divided into three categories: Nutrition to promote healing, Exercise to build strength and endurance and Sleep to increase a healthy immune system.<br />
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I need to learn how to pace myself and think of my energy as "coins" by considering how it's "spent". There is a difference between "activity" vs "exercise". I thought I was doing great by running errands and doing housework. But I was using energy that should have been saved for structured exercise that involved strength training, cardio and flexibility. When I spent my energy on miscellaneous activities, I had nothing left for exercise. I'll have to admit, it sure felt good to clean the bathrooms the way I used to bc (before cancer). I still have to get through radiation and can't afford to "waste" this precious energy.<br />
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Short Term - by September 1<br />
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<ul>
<li>Physical: Nutrition - drink 64 ounces of water, eat more natural foods, avoid food additives, avoid processed foods, eat fish once a week (Carol, please teach me how to cook this stuff!)</li>
<li>Physical: Exercise - walk 20 minutes 5 days a week, do yoga 3 days a week, strength training, lose 5 pounds</li>
<li>Physical: Sleep - go to bed by midnight with chamomile tea and a good book, stop using the TV to fall asleep, nap before fatigue sets in, no computer 2 hours before bedtime.</li>
<li>Emotional - pray and meditate daily, practice mindfulness</li>
<li>Support Systems - connect with people who are loving and enhance my life</li>
</ul>
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Long Term - by June 2014<br />
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<ul>
<li>Physical: Nutrition - continue ST goals, eat fish twice a week,</li>
<li>Physical: Exercise - walk 45 minutes 5 days a week, do yoga daily, strength training, lose 20 pounds</li>
<li>Physical: Sleep - go to bed by 10:00 pm during the school year, continue ST goals </li>
<li>Emotional - continue to pray and meditate, practice mindfulness</li>
<li>Support Systems - call my parents daily, host family gatherings often, hang out with friends</li>
</ul>
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I need to find an app to keep track of some of this and schedule it on my Google Calendar or it might never happen. Call if you want to walk with me this summer!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I would encourage you to set goals for yourself in these areas. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>You shouldn't wait until you have cancer </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>to be proactive about your health. </i></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: purple; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Hugs,</i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: purple; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Christie</i></span><br />
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<br />Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09860792072543240351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-83055514314518796282013-06-05T20:19:00.000-04:002013-07-21T13:06:58.094-04:00It's the Little Things<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xW1Qk2ay31g/Ua_VA83qKmI/AAAAAAAAIC0/EgUevnu2KyY/s1600/_E169825e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xW1Qk2ay31g/Ua_VA83qKmI/AAAAAAAAIC0/EgUevnu2KyY/s200/_E169825e.JPG" width="155" /></a>I was so excited about using mascara for the first time in months. My lashes are only an 1/8th of an inch long but doing something I managed bc (before cancer) made me feel almost normal. I made a list of some little things I'm grateful to be doing again.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HE0X4lYZ3bA/Ua_fBhXt53I/AAAAAAAAIDk/QABgh1LnCSY/s1600/plant.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HE0X4lYZ3bA/Ua_fBhXt53I/AAAAAAAAIDk/QABgh1LnCSY/s200/plant.JPG" width="151" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>walking further than the length of our driveway</li>
<li>planting flowers</li>
<li>having morning coffee on the back porch</li>
<li>planning sewing projects</li>
<li>tasting and smelling food</li>
<li>carrying the laundry basket</li>
<li>cooking for my family</li>
<li>getting the feeling back in my fingers and toes</li>
<li>sleeping on my tummy</li>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: purple; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: medium;"><i>Hugs,</i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: purple; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: medium;"><i>Christie</i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: purple; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="background-color: white; color: purple; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09860792072543240351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217599373123997113.post-35255130037369459192013-05-29T21:20:00.000-04:002013-07-17T20:41:55.588-04:00Panic Attack<br />
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<span style="line-height: 1em;">I had been feeling so much better since I finished chemo. I had some energy and a little bounce in my step. That is, until I got the stomach flu Monday morning. That wiped me out. Richard got it last night and Katie is starting to feel sick. I hope Tommy can be spared.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 1em;">Today I went for my Radiation Mapping appointment to prepare a customized treatment plan. They used a CT scan to find the target for radiation. The trick was that I had to hold my breath. I have been through some pretty difficult tests and procedures these past 7 months but this is the first time I've had a panic attack. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O3IFtnsUedc/UaaTbIHWUsI/AAAAAAAAIBg/ajvVd_V_iB4/s1600/actibe+breathing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O3IFtnsUedc/UaaTbIHWUsI/AAAAAAAAIBg/ajvVd_V_iB4/s1600/actibe+breathing.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="line-height: 1em;">I had to wear a snorkel devise and a clamp on my nose. I got to practice a couple of times before they sent me inside the CT chamber. The tech walked me through the steps as I watched my breathing on a monitor.1. Breathe normal. 2. Blow out all of the air. 3. Take a deep breath and hold it for 20 seconds. </span>While holding my breath, there was a small valve that closed, preventing air through the tube. After 20 seconds it would open to let air through. </div>
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<span style="line-height: 1em;">When they sent me in the CT chamber I was breathing normally and suddenly heard the tech over the speaker, "Okay, now hold your breath." I glanced at the monitor and it showed 29 seconds! OMG! Why didn't he let me take a deep breath. Why are we holding for 29 instead of 20? Then the snorkel started slipping out of my mouth as I tried to bite down even harder. I felt like I was drowning. I tried to hold on but released the safety button and started kicking as if I had fins on my feet to swim away. The doc and tech came running and slid me out. Told me I was fine and they had the images they needed.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 1em;">I didn't stop shaking until I got home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 1em;">Did I ever tell you that I'm not an exhibitionist? Well, I've had to flap my gown open for lots of these people. But today was very unnerving to lay there, bare and get 3 </span><span style="line-height: 16px;">tattoos</span><span style="line-height: 1em;"> and various photos taken. Not my cup of tea. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 1em;">I've inserted some information below about this procedure. I will probably have to go through 6 weeks using this method in order to protect my heart and lungs during radiation.</span></div>
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<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="background-color: #feab21; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; width: 577px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="CENTER" colspan="3" width="595"><span style="color: #996600; font-size: xx-small;">Lt Breast treatment set-up with Active Breathing Coordinator</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="CENTER" width="305"></td><td align="center" width="214"></td><td align="CENTER" width="76"></td></tr>
<tr><td align="CENTER" width="305"><a href="http://www.ebroc.com/html/zoom/abc3.htm" style="color: #3f7a9e; font-size: 10pt; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ebroc.com/images/t_NOABC.JPG" height="243" width="240" /></a></td><td align="center" colspan="2" width="290"><a href="http://www.ebroc.com/html/zoom/abc4.htm" style="color: #3f7a9e; font-size: 10pt; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ebroc.com/images/t_ABC.JPG" height="241" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td align="CENTER" class="subscript" style="color: #805205; font-size: 8pt;" width="305">It is difficult to avoid the heart with Tangential Beams (High radiation dose shown in red)</td><td align="center" class="subscript" colspan="2" style="color: #805205; font-size: 8pt;" width="290">With deep inhalation, using Active Breathing Coordinator, the heart is totally spared</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.swedish.org/Services/Cancer-Institute/Services/Radiation-Therapy/Types-of-Radiation-Therapy/Active-Breathing-Coordinator#axzz2Uj9VwgTB">Active Breathing Coordinator</a></div>
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<strong>Treating a moving target: </strong>Because even the slightest movement can change the location of the tumor, targeting a tumor that moves as the patient breathes may require a slightly larger radiation field to compensate for the tumor’s movement. Some healthy tissue may inadvertently receive radiation as the patient breathes and the tumor shifts.</div>
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<strong>Protecting the heart: </strong>With left-sided breast cancer, which moves when the patient breathes, the heart is part of the healthy tissue that needs to be protected. Studies have shown that patients who have received large doses of radiation to some parts of their hearts or who have had larges areas of the heart exposed to smaller doses of radiation have a higher risk of developing radiation-induced heart disease.<br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Hugs,</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Christie</i></span></div>
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Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09860792072543240351noreply@blogger.com1