News not so good.

I went for my follow-up appointment with my Oncologist yesterday. As some of you may remember I have breast cancer that has migrated into the bone and now the liver seems to be involved. Also there is a spot showing up in the bone over my left eye, so I have a brain scan coming up next week to make sure it is not involved.

I have been taking an oral chemotherapy drug to control and slow down the progression, but apparently it has stopped working. So I will be going on conventional chemo, starting March 3. I am not a stranger to this, I had been on this type of chemo in 2006. Good thing I kept all my head scarfs and hats. : ) Yes, I'll be loosing my hair again and will be taking anti nausea pills again.

I was going to look into taking a disability from work this fall, but may think about it earlier, so I might enjoy my gardening. I do enjoy working and seeing our patients, so this is a hard decision for me. I worked through the last chemo only missing a day or 2 following treatment.

I just wanted to let you all know what is going on. I am keeping a positive attitude, and realize I cannot change this and make it go away. There is a cure out there somewhere, someone just has to find it. Think positive!

Love you all,
Chris

A positive atitude can make all the difference, as well as all your friends here sending positive energy and prayers your way.Yes you should take time to enjoy your gardening, it will bring peace to your soul (and any negative thoughts you have can be taken out on the weeds).
You will be in my prayers.

Chris, We love you and are going to be here praying and wishing you well. Thanks so much for sharing this with us.

Chris, I saw your thread and felt my stomach drop. I have been hoping for better news than this. But there is hope, and new treatments coming down the pipeline--I continue to hope, and wish for the best progress for you.
That is a tough choice, and you will probably feel a little ease once you have resolved it either way you go.

Keeping my fingers crossed for you.

Chris

I so sorry to hear this. I felt my heart in my throat as I was reading your posting.

Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Catbird is so very right - a postive attitude is so important!

Carolyn

A story was on the news here a day ago. Some lady is taking treatments & has not lost any hair. Another lady is using the same thing now & hasn't lost hair yet.

Cold Cap" may prevent hairloss from chemo.


Rapunzel Project

Before Shirley Billigmeier underwent her final round of chemotherapy her daughter spent time brushing her mother's hair. Even after six rounds of treatment, Billigmeier retained the hair on her scalp, a fact she attributes to experimental headwear.

"My hair is all there. It definitely works," Billigmeier said.

Before each round of chemotherapy, Billigmeier wears a device called the Cold Cap. She wears it for one hour before and for four hours after each treatment, Billigmeier said.

The Cold Cap is kept at -22 degrees Fahrenheit. It works by freezing the hair follicles in an attempt to slow blood circulation and prevent the chemotherapy from being absorbed.

"I thought I'd get an ice cream headache, but I don't," Billigmeier said.

When Billigmeier first learned she had breast cancer and need chemotherapy, she started doing research. She discovered Cold Caps and learned they were popular in Europe, Billigmeier said.

"I discovered I have a choice. I didn't have to lose my hair," Billigmeier said.

According to a 1997 study in the European Journal of Cancer, the Cold Cap worked for 87% of patients. Another study published in the Annals of Oncology looked at several different methods of hair retention and found scalp cooling to be effective.

Since starting chemotherapy, Billigmeier began a foundation to create awareness for the Cold Cap. She even raised enough money to put a special freezer into Abbott Northwestern Hospital so other women can have access to the Cold Caps.

"They are excited it's a possibility because many people have never heard that you can keep your hair during chemo with drugs that are supposed to take your hair," Billigmeier said.

Billigmeier is now working with her new foundation, the Rapunzel Project, to get more freezers for more hospitals.

Billigmeier says she is currently cancer free but still continuing radiation.


From KSTP -TV in Minneapolis/St.Paul, MN

Thanks all, I knew I could count on you for a group hug.
After I posted I got in the car and did my grocery shopping. It is nice and sunny out and being on a mission was good for me.
I bought grapes and lettuce will fill up on those, any fresh fruit or vegetable eaten raw that can't be peeled or washed completely will be off my menu when I start chemo, learned the hard way last time, in hospital for a week.
Bought some canned fruit, applesauce, yogurt, things that are easy to grab as a snack, eating often and little got me through the nausea last time.
I'll cancel my hair appointment and alert her that this time I will have her shave my head as soon at the hair starts to go. Those little stubbles that are left are a bummer to sleep on.
Oh! Did I tell you I look like Professor Bunson Honeydew from the muppets when I'm bald.

Thanks CG, We crossed posted.
I did a quick search on Cold Caps and it was mentioned on a breast cancer site that there may be a concern of the chemo not reaching the head using Cold Caps and since there is a slight chance the cancer may be going to my head I don't think I want to interfere with it.
The hair will always grow back. They did have me suck on ice to prevent sores in the mouth as the blood vessels are close to the surface.

Wow I am sorry to be reading this. It seems cancer touches so many of us in so many ways. I will keep you in my prayers and am sending healing thoughts right in your direction!! ♥

I am floored. I keep hearing about breast cancer and all, but it didn't seem such a threat until not, it has hit so close to home. Lady, I am really sorry to hear of this. good health is your greatest asset as it is how we can enjoy life itself. I will be praying for you for a full recovery.

Chemo-therapy has worked for lots of people, and it may be the best way to go for you. Early retirement sounds like a good idea but you might want to ease into it. Part-time work would give you more balance for the beginning--it would allow more free time to enjoy while still keeping you on your toes at work. I wish you all the best!

Chris, do you know how amazing you are? I know we all do. You must have incredible strength of character to always have such a positive attitude.

I'm so sorry you have to have the chemo but I'll be praying it won't be too tough and will nip this darned stuff in the bud.

I know what a healing experience gardening is for you. It's a great idea to give yourself plenty of time to get your fingers in the dirt while going through the chemo. Just make sure you wear your cap - Bunsen Honeydew with a sunburned head is a scary thought. LOL

Sending many big hugs and prayers and wishing there was something else I could do that would make this easier.

hart has nailed it--Chris you are amazing to us, we all admire your get er done attitude.
I also think part time would be great if its workable. With more time at home, think of all the house cleaning you can NOT DO! And losing your hair-- well what a heck of a way to make you wear a hat outside, which we all are supposed to be doing these days anyway.

Oh Ladyg, So sorry to hear that your news wasn't the positive results that we have been hoping for. I hate that you must go thru this again, it will be hard but you have done it before and I know you can do it again. A positive attitude, makes a big difference and you will get all the help we can give. Sending positive thoughts, prayers and love your way. Plus a little sunshine to brighten your day.
Holly

I think easing into retirement is the way to go. I do so much on the computer at work that the other staff members have no clue what goes on behind the sceens. Even working 2 days a month would get the jobs done, teaching the Doc's wife to do thoses jobs will make me pull my hair out, Oh wait, I won't have any hair! Now what was I thinking LOL
Sally I don't think much house cleaning will get done but my gardens may be weedless, Now that's a good thing.
And I have lots of hats to cover up with. Something told me to hang on to them.
The last time, it took me a long time before I would go outside without a hat, but that was in winter, by June I was growing enough soft fuzz that it was pretty stylish but very gray. You would be surprised at how good a warm breeze feels on the scalp. Or how cold your head gets at night when you are sleeping, I have a soft cap for that too.

(((LadyG)))

I've been trying to find the right words of support & comfort since finding this thread a couple hours ago... I'm glad others have found the words that were escaping me.

Praying the chemo won't be too difficult and that it will entirely clear the cancer from your body.

Ladyg, No, No house work save your energy for the most important things like gardening. You are right about how stylish you will look. If you are lucky the gray will have gone completely white or silver. That will be "very" stylish and much cooler for the summer, too. Holly

Holly, Thats what I'm hopeing for, Silver would be nice! I remember when my hair was growing in and it was getting longer, I thought to myself if I could remember (Chemo Brain) at what point the real short hair I was most comfortable with I'd get it cut that short.

Jill, a lot of folks have a hard time finding the right words.
My patients felt a bit uncomfortable at first, when I opened up so did they, I think I helped a lot of them to understand what goes on with cancer treatments and taking a positive roll and being proactive instead of reactive in treatment.
I have a friend that was and is going through treatment and everything I suggest, like drink plently of water, or eat small but often, she always answers with an "I just can't". Her kids are getting so mad at her for not even trying. Everybody is different, but you at least have to try.

LadyG, I'm feeling just like the others. I am so sorry that you still have an ordeal in front of you, but amazed at your incredibly positive attitude. I truly believe that the thoughts and prayers coming your way from so many of your friends will give you an extra boost for getting thru the rough spots and on to the good things ahead. And for those infrequent times when I become skeptical of the power of well wishers, I just think about Critter's Joyanna. Good things DO happen to good people. Keep up the positive spirits and let us know when you need a pick me up. Terri

Terri, visiting with you all on DG is always a pick me up. I do have some down times, and they are more frequent in the winter when I can't get out in the sun and the garden. I never was a winter person.

With all this snow, spring seems so far away. Just when I was getting stir crazy, the sun started shining. Even though it is incredibly cold out, I found a spot sitting inside by one of the french doors where I could close my eyes and feel the warmth of the sun on my face. Felt really good.

I really miss the sun too when it does not come in winter. I remember one really dreary year when we seemed to have (DID have) weeks of cloudy days. I'd go from window to window and just prop on my elbows and gaze. Later I realized- just seeking the light. Once in a while I'll make an effort to spend a little more time in the car, only for better light in a warm spot.
Ladyg--how frustrating for you, that she won't take your advice. And how gracious of you to get rid of the elephant in our 'room', so we can reach you for a hug. Imagine trying to reach you and having an elephant in the way! I always thought elephants looked sort of icky up close, too leathery and bristley.

That's so sad about your friend. Maybe an anti-depressant would help her? My father was so depressed and defeated by the cancer battle and I really believe that was a factor in him not making it. I begged him and begged him to get the doctor to give him something for the depression. I don't know why doctors don't do that routinely. Some people just aren't lucky enough to have the emotional resources they need for the fight. My gosh, it's hard to just get through the day when you're depressed, much less armor up to take on the Big C dragon.

On losing hair, think of the poor men who, perfectly healthy, find their heads getting more and more aerated. Maybe that's why they wear their hair shorter - it's not such a shock when they feel those balmy breezes on their skulls. LOL

Let me know if you need some more caps, Chris. I can crochet you some more or if there's a particular color you'd like. They take no time to make.

Diane, you are so nice to think of the caps. I have quite a few head coverings from scarfs to caps to hats. My daughter ordered me a box of mixed head coverings from a company that specializes, they did a great job of selecting just what was needed.
My head is on the small side and I bought a bunch those man size bandannas at Walmart different designs and colors, they were really nice when the weather warmed up.
My friend declined the anti-depressant also. My doctor always asks me what is going on in my life besides the Big C, also her right hand nurse is a gem. I think they pick up on any emotional changes. I am really lucky to have them.

Tell your friend the anti-depressant isn't for emotional problems, it's for treating the effects that the cancer and the chemo is having on her neurochemistry. Stresses (both physical and emotional) of cancer & chemo will definitely mess up your neurotransmitter balance, it's a physical fact, not an "emotional thing." So many people have trouble accepting the idea that depression might have a treatable, physical basis and isn't just some weakness they should be able to "get over."

I'm glad your medical team is aware of the need to treat the patient, not just the cancer.

Sunshine Girl is playing on the floor, giggling & kicking up happy feet. She's up on hands and knees more and more (not just doing pushups like a little seal), but she hasn't quite figured out how to move along from that position.

Sure wish we were close enough for her to snuggle with you in person... she lifts everybody's spirits!

Oh WOW, LadyG I just thought It would be the perfect time to get that flower tattoo you always wanted. Maybe a tropical Hibiscus right behind the ear with a few tendrils snaking out around the ear and down the back of your neck. Maybe even a little frog on one leaf? Just think of the designs you can come up with while you are doing your chemo treatment. (((BIG HUGS))) Holly

Lady, What about MiniMouse above your ankle?

Jill, what a cute picture you put in my head of your "Little One".

Holly, now what have you been drinking? You must be a riot on girls night out. LOL

Stormy, I can count on you to encourage Holly. Gosh don't get you two together, we'd be sent to lock up before the night was over.

LOL, Mini Mouse above her ankle would still show when her hair grew back... tropical hibiscus behind the ear would go largely into hiding... unfortunately, tattoos are probably "out" at the moment due to risk of infection.. but yes, what a great time to design one! I found a tattoo site once where you could get transfer paper that printed out in your injet computer, a good way to "test drive" a design. :-)

Laughter is the BEST medicine!!
{{{{{hugs}}}}} Chris. Keep your positive attitude, that is a big part of beating any disease.
You are in my prayers.

Hi Chris, sending more positive thoughts for healing - love those froggie and flower themes.

I don't know how the dates would translate for you where you live, but if you could find a bog - we visit one religiously around March 8-11 every year near a local dam for this annual event - one of the wildest, most enchanting times is the spring emergence of peepers and wood frogs. Talk about total joy and complete lack of inhibition - and the froggie chorus is not to be missed, either :)

Karen

LOL Ladyg I just remember some fashion model with a shaved head and I think maybe a dragon tat on the back of her head and I though OH how fashionable Ladyg could be. ((Love))
I

Mickey & Mini hugging?

You all are to much, LOL. You know I'm a Donald Duck fan. He has a temperment just like me, I spit and spudder, when I get POed.

I like the Temp tattoo idea but then I'd have to reapply everyday after my shower.
I had not like tattoos, had 6 little dots done for radiation and they hurt. That was enough for me. OUCH! Sorry. but keep making suggestions.

So, Karen were you sping on them with a flash light? I don't live far from a pond, swampy area, but that would be had you me to get to up close. I do stand on my deck and you can hear the peepers quit well. I count the 3 freezes after I hear the first night of chorus.

Come on Spring!!

Temporary tattoos don't come off in the shower, unless you're also rubbing yourself with baby oil... I always have some for the kids at the beach, and they last most of the week unless abraded by sand.

Peepers... love them!

Chris, if you whistle after they stop on the nights it's warm enough for them to cheep, they'll start cheeping again.

I see some more great Froggy photos coming up!

I love the peepers too. With the big pond just below the house, there are times they are so loud that you can easily hear them inside, even with the windows closed.

Chris, hopefully you are enjoying every moment you can this week before the Mar 3 treatment approaches. My mom had cancer (now fully recovered) and I know the chemo treatments wiped her out, sometimes for a day, sometimes for a lot of days, never seemed consistent. Praying that your down-time after treatment will be minimal.