The end of 2012

2012 is coming to an end, and what a year it has been. When I think back to a year ago I wonder how I managed to get through it all. January 4, 2012 changed my year. I started out with a quick surgery to have my portocath installed on January 12th, then Marcel and I headed to Leavenworth for the Ice fest. After that it was 8 chemo treatments with 6 hospital visits because I would get a fever and be neutropenic. Then it was my mastectomy on July 17th and radiation started August 20th. My last radiation treatment was September 11th.

What a year, I am glad to have all of that behind me. I am looking forward to 2013 and all it has to offer. I am going to start off the new year camping at Othello tunnels in the snow. Then off to Leavenworth on January 18th for Ice fest part II. This time we get to go dog sledding, I can't wait.

Happy New Year wishing everyone good health in 2013!

Happy Holidays

A year ago at this time I was in the Dominican Republic for work, I had gone for an ultrasound on December 5th before I had left. In my head I wasn't worried at all I just had a lump under my arm that was uncomfortable. Who knew that the lump was going to change my life for 2012 and years to come.

I am happy to say that I am healthy and hear to talk about it. I feel pretty good and am looking good to, if I do say so myself. I am looking forward to 2013 and what it has to offer. I am scheduled to go back to work on January 7th, 2013. We shall see how that goes, I feel good so it should be a piece of cake.

I am thankful to everyone who supported me this past year while I went through my many treatments and surgeries. Thank you for not giving up on me, I didn't give up either.

It was nice to have this time off leading up to the holiday season. Marcel and I were able to take a short vacation to the Mayan Riviera. I have all my baking done, Christmas presents are wrapped and all the decorating is done. Just have to sit back, relax and visit with family and friends.

Cheers to you and your families over the holidays!

Love ya,
Liane

So many amazing people...

Through this journey I have met so many amazing people that have gone through this journey or are going through it. I want to say to all of you that hope, courage and determination get us through it.

As far as my treatments go etc... Well I am done. I met with Dr. Uhlman 2 weeks ago and she said she will see me in August. Wow that seems so far away. I went for a CT scan last week and I should be getting my results back today. They sent me for the scan because they saw something on a chest xray. So every time they think they see something they have to check. It's a pain in the neck can't I just be cancer free and not have to worry about it for awhile. Not that I worry about it but still it sits in the back of your head, and I know it worries the people around me.

They have me scheduled to go back to work in the new year. That will be another huge hurdle but I shall make it work. I will go back part time and work up to full time.

For now I live one day at a time and everyday I feel a little bit better. I have more energy and am starting to feel more like myself.

Marcel and I are going away for the weekend to visit friends. Have a great weekend!

The end of October....

Things have been pretty good lately, well for the most part. I went to the Dr yesterday for a follow up. I asked why I am so dizzy he took my blood pressure and it is low 94/63 so he told me to eat salt on my meals. If it works I will try it for a little bit, nothing to lose.

I also asked him about the medicine my oncologist prescribed for my CT scan next week. He told me it was for my kidneys. I asked why as I hadn't had it before, he informed me that for the past couple months when they do my blood work my creatine levels have been high. What this means is my kidneys have been having a hard time functioning since the chemo. They are supposed to produce creatine but usually between 55 - 60, my levels are 90 - 100 not so good :( . I asked what I can do apparently not much just drink water it helps them to filter. So here's to trying to get my kidneys functioning better.

It is amazing how the chemo affects so many other things. Still working on feeling "normal" hoping it gets back to that soon enough.

Well take care, I go to see my oncologist tomorrow for a follow up. Then I have a CT scan next week on Nov 6th.

Happy Fall!

Radiation Oncologist....All Clear

I met with the Radiation Oncologist today and she said it looks like everything thing is healing nicely. She told me she hopes to not have to see me again. I am hoping for the same, I am starting to feel better I am definatley on the road to recovery.

Next week I will see my doctor and my Oncologist. I have a CT scan booked for Nov 6th. I'll update again soon.

Luv you all!

October already...

Thank you to everyone who supported the run for the cure on Sunday, September 30th it was a fantastic day. When I did the run 5 years ago for my mom it was a very emotional day. I never thought after standing in the field with tears in my eyes as I watched the survivors parade that it would be me 5 years later in that parade. I had a great day on Sunday and am thankful that I am a survivor and was able to walk in the run for the cure with my family and friends.

October is starting out to be a beautiful month the weather is amazing. Marcel and I are camping up at Chilliwack Lake this week and are going to enjoy Thanksgiving up there with Richard, Tammy and the kids.

I went to the oncologist today I guess things are going good nothing to report really. She asked how I was doing and I told her I can't get rid of this silly cough I have had for almost 8 weeks. She sent me for a chest xray and gave me a prescription for cough medicine. Hopefully it goes away soon, I see her again on Halloween.

Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving!

It's official I am done!

I completed my last radiation treatment today! Wow I never thought this day would come I am done with all my cancer treatments. I don't feel any different, should I?

Now what's next....well I have a bunch of Dr. appointments over the next ocuple weeks and they say it will take at least 2 to 4 weeks for the radiation side effects to finish. So I guess we will see. I am hoping I can feel normal soon.

Anyway have a great week!

Almost done for good!

Only 4 radiation treatments to go....I can't wait to be done. Actually the radiation has not been bad so far. I am just having lots of nausea and loss of appetite from the hormone therapy drugs. All is good I am hoping the new medicine they gave me for nausea will help and I will be back to normal soon enough.

Looking forward to this weekend its Marcel's bday on Friday and we are gonna take the old truck to Langley for the Cruise-in. My Aunts are also coming this weekend from Ontario for a visit and will be here all next week. Looking forward to seeing them and hanging out a bit.

I thought I would post a new pic of me now that my hair is growing back. It isn't curly!!! It's actually coming back quite quickly. It's not much but enough to give me bed head in the morning lol.

Sept 1st

Well 10 radiation treatments done so far and feeling pretty good. Well ok I have had a terrible cough for 2 weeks which I am just getting rid of. I have lost 12 lbs in 2 weeks because I haven't had an appetite and I have been rather tired. Other than that it's been good. Only 6 more treatments and I am done. I finish my treatments on Sept 11th. I haven't had any of the burning as a side effect yet so that's good.

I am just going to take it easy this weekend and rest. I hope you have a good long weekend talk to ya soon.

At the end of this month my family and I are participating in the Run for the Cure. I am hoping I am up to walking 1 km it doesn't seem that far to most but to my body thats a marathon lol.

1 down 15 to go

I had my first radiation treatment yesterday it was a piece of cake, just like going for a CT scan. The first one was a little longer than normal as they have to get me all set up in the machine and they draw little lines on me. I also got one more dot tattoo yesterday so now I have 4 in total. I have my 2nd appt at 9:12am today. I found after radiation I felt fine but I was really tired yesterday afternoon. They say it makes you tired so I guess its par for the course.

Yesterday I also went and got fitted for my prosthesis and got my new bra. It felt kinda weird to have a bra back on and to look in the mirror and see 2 boobs. I will have to wait now until after my radiation to wear it as they don't want anything to irritate the area during treatments.

Well enjoy your week.

Liane

Radiation time

I got the phone call this week my first radiation appt is this Monday at 1pm. I have 16 appts so I should be done with all of my radiation appts by Sept 11.

We went camping last weekend at Lightning Lakes, it was absolutely amazing and we had beautiful weather. I even rowed the boat across the lake, I have to say that my one arm still needs some work there was alot of extra rowing on one side lol.

This week has been a busy one we have had my Grandpa at our house.  His Dementia is getting worse so it is sometimes hard for him to communicate what he wants. It has been great to see him though I hope he has enjoyed time away from his home. My sister Darcie is going to take him back on Saturday.

Marcel and I are looking forward to more fabulous weather this weekend. Sunday is the Mierau bbq I don't think I will be out tubing but looking forward to watching Amanda try to wake board. I am pretty sure Breanna will be knee boarding too. Have a great week!

See you in 6 months.....

I went and saw Dr Wiggins my surgeon yesterday, he is very pleased with my progress since my surgery 2 weeks ago. So pleased he said he would see me in 6 months, what a great feeling.

Next Wednesday, August 8th is going to be a busy day I have 3 appts at the cancer clinic. In the morning I go to meet the radiation team to start getting ready for radiation. At noon I meet with the hereditary program for the 1st time to see what that entails. Finally in the later afternoon I will meet with Dr. Uhlman my oncologist to see what her thoughts are. I haven't seen her since my last chemo treatment and she will now have my pathology reports as well. So we will see what she has to say, I also think we will now start my hormone therapy....my poor husband lol!

I hope everyone has a great weekend, make sure you wear sunscreen it's gonna be HOT!

Talk to you soon,
Liane

Pretty amazing news

Yesterday we went to see my surgeon for my 1 week after surgery check up. He took out my drain tubes that was absolutely the weirdest feeling. I will spare some of you the details, especially if my sister Tiff is going to read this. Once we got the tubes out we went back to his office and he asked what we wanted to hear.

I said "tell me whatever you have to tell us" and my step mom said "good news." Well it was amazing news, my surgeon had received the pathology report from my surgery. He said that he had gotten all the cancer he had removed the tumour and a bit of the chest muscle and that was good. He also removed 14 lymph nodes and he was surprised that of the 14 he removed the cancer was still only in the original 2 it had not gone any further.

So with that said I AM CANCER FREE!!!!!

I still have to go through with my radiation treatments in about 3 weeks or so as a precaution but I am on the home stretch. It has definitely gone by fast for us, there have been some not so nice days. Overall I truly believe that a good attitude and great friends and family have really helped to get through this.

I see my surgeon next week on Wednesday for my next follow up visit. Enjoy your week we are headed to the old time drags in Mission on Sunday.

Liane

1st week

So it has been 1 week since I had my surgery. Things are going well, I still have my drain tubes in I am hoping they will get taken out tomorrow when I see my surgeon. I have been really surprised at how well I have felt. For such a big operation I have felt amazing.

I have had lots of visitors this week and am so lucky to have so many amazing people in my life. Thank you to everyone for all your positive thoughts and prayers. Having my parents stay with us this week has also been great it has given us a break and they have really helped us out.

Now on to recovering quickly so I can start radiation soon.

Take care,
Liane

Mastectomy complete...

Tuesday was surgery day, Marcel my Dad and Stepmom all came with me to the hospital. I think they were all nervous for me. The waiting wasn't too bad I was just getting impatient I wanted to get it over and done with. They called us in to the OR waiting area at 11am I went into surgery at 11:30 and was in recovery waking up at 2pm. They brought me up to my room at 3pm.

The surgery went well mastectomy and the axillary node dissection are complete. Dr. Wiggins feels everything is good and it went exactly as planned. I got out of the hospital at 10am on Wednesday. I am surprised I thought I would be sore but it has been pretty good. I am thankful I am recovering quickly.

I will update again soon.

Chapter 2 starts tomorrow

Marcel and I had a good trip to the Oregon coast. We came home a day early because my feet turned into little swollen sausages. All is good apparently it was from all the driving we did.

Tomorrow is the next chapter for me in my journey. My surgery is scheduled for 10:45am they say the surgery is about 90 minutes. Then I will be in recovery for about an hour. I only stay in the hospital overnight then they send me home. When I come home I will still have drain tubes for 7 to 14 days. A nurse will come on Friday to change my dressings and check my tubes etc.

I am lucky though I will have nurse Bear and my Dad out here while I recover. I am so thankful for that. Well I will let you all know how I am doing soon. Enjoy the nice weather!

Love
Liane

A couple pics from my last chemo treatment

Me all hooked up for my last treatment :)

The yummy cupcakes

Thank you card I made for the chemo team

Amanda coming to show me her dress before she headed to prom with her boyfriend.

All done Chemo

Sorry for no updates, I finished my last chemo treatment on Thursday June 21st. It was really nice I brought cupcakes that my niece Tammy helped me with. The Chemo team loved them as did a few of the patients. I can't believe I am done with Chemo it doesn't seem right.

On Friday after chemo, Marcel and I attended the annual Mierau golf tourney. Marcel golfed I rode around in the golf cart with Anita and took pictures. It was a great day minus the not so great weather. Thanks to the Mierau's for hosting the event.

I didn't feel as yucky this time as I did the last treatment. I even started my injections on the Friday instead of the Monday to keep myself out of the hospital. Well that didn't work, Tuesday evening Marcel had to take me to emerg because I had a fever. Good news is that is the last time. So I was in the H from Tuesday to Saturday.

I got out of the H Saturday and was a little stir crazy so Marcel and I went for a drive and saw my little sister camping up at Jones Lake. It was raining so we only stayed for a little while. Then Sunday we ventured up to Lytton for the afternoon and had dinner with our friends Luke and Lara. Back to reality today, I am tackling the laundry. This week we get ready to go to the Oregon Coast on Saturday for a week. Then I come home and have my surgery on Tuesday, July 17th. I am thankful my parents are going to come out and stay that week to help me out while I recover.

Take care!

Last treatment tomorrow

I have some mixed emotions for tomorrow.....My chemo is going to be all done man I hope my body accepts it and moves on from this silly cancer. The nurses my oncologist and the rest of the team have been so terrific. I will definitely miss their hugs and motivation.

With that said I am on to the next chapter soon. Surgery on July 17th a single mastectomy with arterial lymph node dissection. I can't wait....ha. I will be in the hospital overnight and as long as everything goes well will be on my way home the next morning with drain tubes for up to 2 weeks. I am very lucky though the Bears are gonna come and stay with us that week so they can help take care of me.

Well talk to you soon, have a great weekend!

3 more days to my last one

Only 3 more days to my very last chemo treatment. I am very excited for this part to be almost finished. My hair is coming back in pretty quickly over the last couple weeks. Or as my family likes to call it my fuzz. I think its going to come back straight, thank goodness. I am crossing my fingers for no curls.

Tomorrow I go for my last session of blood work....woohoo. Then Thursday is my last treatment I just have to get through this week and next week and I am set.

We had a good weekend for Father's day. Friday night we went to Langley to meet my sisters and the bears for dinner and then we went to see the old cars at Timmy's on Logan. Saturday we had the pleasure of being part of our nephew Evan and Kayla's wedding. I even got to line dance, but that definitely wore me out I got work on getting my energy back. Sunday Breanna came over and helped Marcel work on the old truck. Jennifer came over and helped out for a bit then came inside to hang out with me. Poor Amanda was sick so she didn't get to come hang out as our house is germ free right now. Brad came home after work and had dinner with us.

Well I hope you have a great rest of your week. Talk to you soon!

Thank goodness I only have one more to go...

Treatment #7 has not been so great. The Sunday after treatment I became really tired and achy so I layed down around 1pm that afternoon. The achy continued for the next 3 days I didn't get out of bed by Tuesday night I managed to get my fever. So Wednesday afternoon I went to the Dr. and he told me I had to go to the hospital. I checked into emerg around 2pm on Wednesday and had a room upstairs by 11pm.

I spent the next 3 days in the hospital this time I had a roommate though which was nice as it helped to pass the time. My roommate was a lady named Dottie she was 81 years old and such an inspiration to me. She had to have both her legs removed over the last year and a bit and she was so positive. She definitely came into my life at just the right time. What a great lady!

I got out of the hospital on Saturday at noon went home got showered and dressed and went to Vancouver to my cousins wedding. It was so beautiful, I didn't stay for the dancing we left so I could get some rest. Sunday, Andrea came out for a visit and brought me a frog cake. It was great to hang out, I still wasn't feeling great but better than the previous days.

I think this body is worn out thank goodness I only have one more treatment. Have a great week!

Only one more to go

I had my 7th chemo treatment today only one more to go thank goodness. My treatment today was not the norm of course. They tried to access my port but it didn't work the first time, they had me walk around moving my arms up and down and trying to cough. That didn't work then they laid me on a bed and pretty much had me upside down with my feet in the air that didn't work either. So back to my chair I went they reaccessed me and no luck they said that my white blood cells were blocking the catheter so they would inject a medicine to unblock it but it would take and hour. They wanted to keep things on schedule so they asked to do an IV for my chemo....yikes I hate needles so I got my self worked up and had a bit of a teary moment while they wrapped my arms in warm towels to try and find the best vein. They had luck and the nurse was so gentle putting in the IV then I was hooked up and good to go for chemo. I got my ice gloves and we were set.

They came back an hour later and were able to access my port so I should be good to go for my last chemo on June 21st. Only one more to go woohoo! After chemo the bear and I went to the mastectomy/prosthesis shop in Abby so I could have a look at my options they have some really nice bras and I got to hold and feel my new boob option it was very soft and pretty light. They also carry bathing suits so I think I will be all set come August - Sept when I have to go try them on.

The bear and I went to Cactus club for lunch yummy. Enjoy your weekend!

So confused...

Marcel and I had a great weekend camping up at Hicks Lake, it was so nice to be at the lake with beautiful weather. On Saturday morning Bradley came up for a bit and went fishing with Marcel. Saturday afternoon Tammy came up with the kids we hung out at the beach. Marcel took the kids out fishing for a bit. Nathan spent the night with us in the trailer. Sunday morning Marcel and Nathan went out fishing and Nathan came back with 2 fish lucky guy.

Today I went for blood work and to see the oncologist. My blood work was good so I am good to go for chemo on Thursday treatment #7 only one more treatment after this. I can't believe it we are nearing the end. I also talked to my oncologist about my surgery in July and asked her opinion on lumpectomy vs mastectomy. I am so confused I don't know what to do, she said my surgeon is fantastic and very conservative she is her go to guy when she has questions. She was a bit shocked that he wanted to do a lumpectomy. She feels a mastectomy might be better because of my age and chance for recurrence. However she said it's my decision in the end. Sigh.....what to do.

My health is more important than a breast. Mastectomy on July 17th more than likely.

Have a great week I have chemo Thursday.

Speed bump

Wednesday morning I could barely get out of bed I was so tired. When I did roll out of bed at 12:30 I checked my temperature 39.4 uh oh. So I called Marcel and we headed to the hospital just like old times back in Jan and Feb. They ran the usual blood tests etc. and I stayed in emergency until Saturday afternoon hooked up to the antibiotics. I don't know what was wrong or why I got the fever but all is good just a little speed bump for the long weekend.

Only 2 more chemo treatments to go. Next one is May 31 what a good way to end the month. Then only one more!

I am looking forward to heading to Hicks Lake next weekend for camping. I hope you all had a great long weekend!

The middle of May already...

Where does the time go? What a beautiful week of sunshine we have had, I planted my flowers on Saturday now it definetly feels like summer is on its way. I had my 6th Chemo treatment on Thursday, only 2 more to go. I can't believe I am saying that, back in January it sounded like it would be forever and now my treatments are almost over.

I am looking forward to the long weekend, Marcel and I are going to take A and B to the Rodeo in Cloverdale. I should be feeling good by then. This Chemo hasn't been so bad yet, it knocked me on my butt Sunday night yesterday I was achy and today but nothing Tylenol can't help. I hope you enjoy your week I am going to do my best to do the same.

What a great week!

Marcel and I went camping at Hicks Lake from Sunday to Tuesday this week. We had beautiful weather it was so nice to get out and have campfires and relax at the lake. We had such a great time, on Sunday Richard and Tammy and the kids came up. Nathan went fishing with Marcel and caught 3 fish. Amanda, Breanna, Jenn and Dorey also came up and stayed for dinner. We had such a good time we booked to go back there the weekend of May 25 - 27th in campsite 15. If you have no plans come up for a visit.

I went dragon boating on Monday night Marcel and I drove down from Hicks because Amanda had soccer so I took advantage of the fact I was feeling great and went out for a paddle with the team. It was amazing I am so glad I joined. What a beautiful night out on the lake.

Wednesday I went for blood work and met with Dr. Uhlman she is pleased with how everything is going so far only 3 more treatments. Chemo #6 is today at 2:15 I am getting so close to the end of treatments. She did say that I am starting to become Anemic but that is par for the course with these treatments. I am feeling good and hoping that next week doesn't knock me on my butt like the last time. The good thing is if it does I know its only a couple days then I bounce back.

I also went and met with my surgeon Dr. Wiggins yesterday to talk about my mastectomy and surgery options. He was so pleased when he did my breast exam. My tumor has shrunk from over 5 cm to less than 2 cm. When we talked to him he said he would like to do a lumpectomy instead of a mastectomy because I my tumor is so small now. I totally wasn't expecting that it wasn't even in my thoughts for an option. He told me whether I do a lumpectomy or mastectomy it will not change my survival rates. Now I have a decision to make I go back to see him June 13 to tell him what we are going to do. He said he will do whatever I want it is ultimately my decision. My surgery is scheduled for July 17th he will do either the lumpectomy or mastectomy and the axillary lymph node dissection. I will have drain tubes for 7 - 14 days. But he feels I will have a quick recovery.

I hope you all have a good weekend! Happy Mothers day on Sunday to all the mom's out there!


Liane

May 4th....

Happy Friday, I have had a good week. I am looking forward to this weekend. Marcel and I are going camping on Sunday to Hicks lake for a couple days. If the weather man is right it is going to be fantastic weather. We have to be back on Tuesday night. Wednesday I have to go for bloodwork and meet my Oncologist. After that I meet with my surgeon to discuss the surgery options for July.

Thursday is Chemo 3 more to go.....

Have a great weekend!

It's been awhile

It's been awhile since my last post. Here is the latest update from me, after last weeks last post saying the new drug was ok well it wasn't. I ended up spending all day Wed and Thursday in bed so achy and tired I could barely get up to eat. I said to my family that last week was the first time that I definitely felt like a cancer patient. I felt a bit better Friday but had that terrible cough still all day, to the point it was making me sick to my stomach from all the coughing.

Saturday I started to feel better, thank goodness. That night we went to the Dance for the Cure fundraiser. I posted some pictures on facebook, it was a fun night if I had been feeling better there definitely would have been alot of dancing. I did manage to dance to a couple of songs. The fundraiser was alot of fun, lots of good prizes.

Monday I drove out to Hope to meet my hubby for lunch. On the drive home I went through Agassiz and stopped to have a look at the Tulips of the Valley so beautiful. Last night we took the girls to dinner at Rendezvous.

Today is laundry and grocery shopping day. This afternoon I am going to meet my friend Betty for a cup of tea. I hope you have a great week I am going to do my best to do the same.

Take care,
Liane

Tuesday...

So far this new drug hasn't been to nasty to me. It does make me feel achy and I pretty much slept all day on Sunday. Overall though not to bad so far. The advil seem to keep my achiness under control.

I have an appt on May 9th to meet with my surgeon to discuss my options for my masectomy. They feel I will probably have my surgery in mid July. Yikes, the time is going so fast for some things and so slow for others.

This weekend was beautiful, today on the other hand is another story. I think they saved the rain up over the weekend and delivered it all this morning. Well have a terrific week.

Chemo #5 done

Chemo yesterday was pretty good no bumps or hiccups. The new drug has been good to me so far keeping my fingers crossed that it stays like that. The most fantastic thing is no nausea. For my treatment yesterday they had me put my hands in ice gloves during my treatment for about 45 minutes. Ouch it's like putting your hands in a snowbank with no gloves on brrrrr. They say it helps with my nails as this new drug isn't very nice to your nail beds and tends to make them crack and lift so if I wear the ice gloves it helps. My baby sister took me to chemo yesterday as I was nice enough to share my cold I had with Marcel.

I am going to hopefully enjoy my weekend this new drug is being very cooperative so far, I will keep you posted.

Have a great weekend!

Chemo #5

Chemo tomorrow morning at 9am with my new drug. I'm not sure if I am looking forward to it or not. I am looking forward to the fact I only have 3 more treatments after this one. My last treatment can not come soon enough. My mom always said don't wish your life away. I'm not wishing it away, I just wish it would hurry up. I want to get on with being normal again.

I am so blessed to have such a loving and caring group of family and friends. If I haven't thanked you, I am now. I appreciate all of you and your thoughts and prayers for me.

Love ya!

Busy weekend....

We had a pretty busy weekend here at our house. Our friends the Fowle's came down for a visit, it was great to have them. Sunday, Marcel went to my stepdad's with the biggest grin on his face. My stepdad is giving us his 1951 Ford pick up. Well not really giving Marcel has to help build him a workshop. The truck has been sitting in the carport for 24 years. My stepdad bought it when I was in grade 7. So it is now in my carport washed and ready for some TLC. We had many visitors popping by Sunday afternoon to check it out. The Bears came out for dinner and Tiff and Idan came out too we had bbq hamburgers it was a great weekend.

I am still fighting this silly cold, I just can't seem to shake it. I am supposed to have chemo this Thursday so I have 3 days to get rid of it. It is just a silly cough but it comes and goes, so hopefully it goes soon. I hope you have a fantastic week. I will update you again soon.

Inspirational morning...

I have been so sick all week with this silly cold. This morning I woke up and felt a little bit better I think I am on the mend. So today I went to meet my new team. Team you ask? I am joining a dragon boat team, the ladies on this team are all breast cancer survivors. My team is called Spirit Abreast and they practice up at Cultus Lake. It was very inspirational to meet with them this morning and I am not going to lie it brought tears to my eyes. I connected with one team member who is about my age and her and I got to have a good chat. I am looking forward to sharing lots of great stories with my new team. They know I am still going through my treatments, but they said even if I just want to sit on the boat with them I can if I don't feel up to paddling.

Here's to getting better this week so I am ready for Chemo on Thursday.

Spirit Abreast Dragon Boat Team

Chemo postponed

I went to see the oncologist today, thanks to my fantastic cold chemo is postponed until next Thursday. Which means that all my other chemo dates are now pushed back one week so my last chemo appt won't be on my birthday it will be June 21st. This cold sucks, Marcel took this week off so we could hang out and I feel terrible. We did go for a walk at Harrison on Tuesday, it was a beautiful day for it.

I can't wait to be done with all this. I gained 5 pounds in 3 weeks, Dr. uhlman says it's from the steroids. Since I started chemo in January I have managed to gain almost 10 pounds, the cancer clinic keeps saying it's a good thing, I just keep thinking I am going to have a lot of work and dieting to get all this weight back off again.

Have a good rest of the week, I am going to get rid of this cold.

Ugh...

Had a busy weekend over on the Island trying to get my grandpa moved to his new place. Luckily for us we have another month. It is a very slow process to say the least I think we got half of it looked after. We had a nice family dinner on Saturday with my Grandpa and headed home Sunday.

On another note I managed to get a cold that put me in bed all day yesterday. I am hoping I feel a bit better today and great by tomorrow as I have to go for bloodwork tomorrow. I think the busy weekend and lack of sleep got the better of me. I will get over this and have chemo Thursday at 8:30am. I am hoping this new drug is a piece of cake.

Have a great week!

Happy Spring!!!

April 3rd already where does the time go?  Next week I go for treatment #5. I have been feeling really good this time around. I think I am actually going to have almost 2 full weeks of feeling "normal" before my next treatment. I am so thankful that my elephant hasn't disrupted my life to much. Overall the elephant is getting used to my house and family and hasn't caused to many disruptions. Thank you Ellie for fitting in and not being a pain in my side.

I took a picture of myself today to post on my blog. Not that I truly love how I look right now, but I want to remember the no hair days. I think my hair is starting to come back, it's definatley not growing like a weed but some of the little pieces I do have are a bit longer than some others. I wonder what it will look like when it does come back. Curly or straight? Guess we will have to wait and see.

I probably won't post anything till next week because I am going to get out there and enjoy the rest of the week and weekend.

Happy Easter everyone enjoy time with your families!

It worked

So the bigger injections worked. I felt great this weekend, Friday night my temperature climed to 38 but by the next morning I was normal. For the next 2 weeks I should feel a bit better everyday, which is fantastic! My next Chemo appt is April 12th. This weekend we are headed to the island to see my Grandpa.

Marcel was a busy guy this weekend, he moved the cedars beside the house and put up a fence. He also be built me a beautiful deck in the back yard. I can't wait to have bbq's out there this summer.

Enjoy your week I am going to!

Gotta take it easy

So I was hoping this weekend would be better having bigger injections to keep my white count up. I am thinking it is going to be exactly the same. I was achy all day yesterday, and this morning my temperature is 37.4 which is ok but I have to keep an eye on it over the next 3 days. I will be on lock down this weekend. As long as I stay out of the big H that's all I care about.

Have a great weekend!

Feeling pretty good...

Not a whole lot to report this week, Chemo treatment #4 is going along pretty good. I have had 2 of my 4 injections this week. Monday I was exhausted I pretty much slept most of the day. Yesterday I felt pretty good. Last night I was up half the night, I guess I can't have it all. I am feeling pretty strong this week considering this is my week where my immune system tends to drop. I am hoping that the bigger injections look after that. So far so good I think.

This weekend Marcel is going to attack my yard and make a big mess. He is tearing out and moving some of our cedar hedging, cutting down the birch tree in the back to make way for a new deck. I think he is also digging to make room for a sidewalk between the house and the driveway. Good thing it's him I will be on the couch!

Have a great week, here's to staying healthy!

Loving the sunshine!

I definatley think that sunshine always makes you feel better. I am feeling pretty good so far since chemo treatment #4 on Thursday. I haven't had night sweats and the nausea seems to be under control so far. I don't want to jinx myself.

Yesterday we went to my mother in laws 80th birthday, it was good to see all the family and extended family. I was pretty tired and fell asleep on the couch at 6:00pm. Not a good idea then you are up in the middle of the night.

It's another beautiful sunny day Lloyd and June are coming out for a visit this afternoon.

Tomorrow I go for my injection. Enjoy the sun!

Busy week...

This week was a busy one, Tuesday I went for bloodwork. I am happy to report my numbers are all good for chemo today. I met with a different oncologist on Tuesday, Dr. Mia. She was nice and very thurough, she explained my new chemo drug to me. Today is my half way point treatment 4 only 4 more to go.

The new drug docetaxel is better there is no nauseas side effects they say. However, the side effects for it are allergic reactions ( rash, swelling or itchiness). Fever is a side effect so I need to keep a close eye on it and the white blood cell count decreases like with my previous treatments. They also say my hands and feet will be very sore and tender especially my nail beds. I start this new drug in April.

They have also up'd my injections, I am staying with the same amount of days but more Neupogen to keep my blood count up. I go for my injection on Monday again.

On Wednesday I met my radiation oncologist and we talked about my radiation therapy. The treatment will start 4 weeks after my masectomy surgery as long as I heal properly. The treatment will be everyday Mon - Fri for 16 treatments. That's exciting because some people have to have 25 treatments. Before I go for treatments they spend an hour with me doing a CT scan to mark where the cancer is and they do small tattoos on my body to pinpoint where they will do the radiation. The side effects for radiation are your skin may blister in the area you are being treated and it will feel like you have a sunburn.

Chemo today at 2pm....woohoo I am half way there!

Have a great day enjoy the sun!

Monday already...

We had a great weekend over on the island visiting my grandpa. On our way home yesterday we stopped by the bear's for dinner. Thank you bear's for watching Clover for us on the weekend while we we're away and for the great supper.

This week is a busy one, tonight I am going to the Lady Antebellum concert with my little sis and my step mom. Tomorrow I go to the cancer clinic for bloodwork and to meet with the oncologist. Wednesday I go and meet with a radiation oncologist and Thursday is chemo again. I am pretty excited for Thursday it is my half way point for chemo. Only 4 more sessions left after Thursday.

Enjoy your week!

Liane

A few facts

I went to the library yesterday and picked up a few books. One of the books had some great facts I wanted to share.

• Over 80% of breast cancer patients survive long term
• Women who are diagnosed under the age of 45 years - survival is estimated 81% will be alive after 5 years.

Thought these odds were pretty good and wanted to share with you.

These week has been a great week for me, since Tuesday I have felt pretty normal. It has been so nice to not feel tired and or nausea's. Last night we went for dinner at Marcel's brothers house. Thank you to Eric and Lisa for a nice dinner and my little elephant. 

This weekend we are headed to the Island to visit my grandpa. Then on Monday I am going to the Lady Antebellum concert with my little sis her bestie and the bear. I am really looking forward to it.

Have a great weekend!

Liane

I was given an elephant

Back in January I was handed an elephant...well maybe not an elephant but close enough. The question is what do you do with an elephant when you have to live with it everyday. I don't have the answer to that question, but I can tell you this it hasn't changed me as a person. I am still the same girl I was on January 3rd the day before the elephant was left on my lap. Minus the fact that I seem to have lots of Dr. appts and every 3 weeks I pretty much feel like garbage for about a week. My life revolves around the elephant for the most part, but only 15 more weeks to go and I think the elephant will be trained. Then we can start to get back to better things.

Where am I going with this? I really just wanted you to know that I am good and please don't be scared to contact us, the elephant doesn't bite. I live with the elephant everyday and really sometimes I don't even know he's there. Except maybe when I look in the mirror and notice he ate my hair, or the days he makes me so tired i can't get out of bed. I know alot of times people are scared of the elephant and don't know what to say or not say or what questions to ask. He's just an elephant, he's big but I can handle him.

I just want you to know the elphant lives at my house and it's not a secret! We talk about him and have embraced him in our life no matter how he makes me feel. Sometimes we try and pretend he's imaginary.

Have a great week, I am going to do the same!

Liane

I think I made it

I layed low all weekend and rested and I think I may have done it. It was a bit touch and go on Friday night my temperature climed to 38.1 but that was the highest it got all weekend. Yay no H visit for me this time! My temperature seems to be good today, I am going to hang out and rest don't want to chance it.

Friday my friend Debbie from work came over and brought me a bunch of hand made hats from my friend Tara. It was so awesome and the hats are so cool I can't wait to wear them all. Thank you ladies for that I needed a little pick me up :)

Marcel is so great he is so busy working but he still makes us dinners when I don't feel up to it and goes grocery shopping because I can't go out. I love you!!!

Have a good Sunday!

Groundhog day .....re run

Ok so I have come to the conclusion that I think I am living in my own version of the movie Groundhog day. Every 3 weeks I go through the same thoughts and feelings. It is like a redo every 3 weeks. I have about 5 more re runs of this. I wish it was a more exciting version.

This morning I woke up with a sore throat, not good as this is when my neutraphils are the worst. However, I have been getting my injections everyday to hopefully keep me on the up and up. I am crossing my fingers and toes. I go for my last injection today at 1pm, then I gotta stay out of the germs and try not to get a fever over the next 4 days. Ok sore throat go away!!!

Have a great sunny day!

Feeling a bit better today :)

Woke up this morning after a not so great sleep but I am feeling a bit better today my tummy is settling down I think. Why is it sometimes your brain just doesn't turn off. No big plans today gonna put something in the crock pot for supper and hang out and rest.

I like when I feel somewhat normal it makes me think that this is all working.

Next appts

Tuesday March 20, Blood work and Oncologist appt
Wednesday March 21, meeting with Ratiation Oncologist 1:40pm
Thursday March 22, Chemo

Have a good rest of the week!

Yay sunshine!

I haven't felt so great the last 3 days, the nausea attacked me a bit more this time but nothing I couldn't handle. I am starting to feel a bit better today. I have had nasty night sweats the last 4 nights though. It's all good the sunshine is out today and I am going to try and enjoy it.

I went for my first injection yesterday no big deal, I go for another one today at 1pm and am finished on Thursday. Then I hope my count stays up so I do not visit the hospital. That would be fantastic!

Well take care and enjoy the sun!

Liane

Feeling good so far

Day 3 after my 3rd treatment, I am feeling pretty good so far. Last night we went to Oma and Opa's to have cake with Jessica and the family for her 16th birthday. It was nice to be with the family.

Today I am going to go to the women's show at the heritage park for an hour or so, I will see how I feel. No big plans other than that gonna rest and take it easy.

Monday I go for my first injection to keep my blood count up, I am crossing my fingers it works.

Hope you all have a good weekend.

Liane

Holy cow

I went to see my oncologist today my blood count is good for my next chemo it was 7 not quite as high as the last time at 9 but 7 is good. She decided that I need to go on shots though to help boost my white blood cells. So for 4 days after chemo Monday to Thursday I have to get 1 injection a day. I called my Doctors office and they will do the injection for me for the 4 days after every treatment going forward. Thank goodness because I didn't want to have to do them myself or ask someone to do them for me. (I have a needle phobia.)

On another note thank goodness Marcel and I have good extended medical plans I cannot imagine what people do who don't have insurance. The 4 injections cost $1293.00 per 4 injections!!! Luckily our plans cover it. I have to have 4 injections after every chemo cycle and there are 6 cycles left including tomorrows session. The tricky part is my oncologist doesn't know if the shots will keep my neutraphils high enough to keep me outta the hospital on week 2 so let's cross our fingers this works.

My treatment tomorrow is at 2:15 my Dad is taking me to this treatment. Talk to you soon!

Tuesday already...

I'm not sure where the last 3 days went they flew by. Saturday, I hung out at home and got caught up on laundry and stuff then in the evening Marcel and I went to the Godfrey's for pizza and we played our game "the redneck life." It was a fun evening and it was great to get out and feel normal :)

On Sunday morning I woke up to sunshine that inspired me to head outside to do some weeding in one of my gardens. It was sunny but it was very chilly. I finished the weeding but felt absolutely exhausted when I was done, I definitely do not have the energy I had before chemo. That's ok I just have to take a bit longer to do things and listen to my body, I am learning this as I go. Sunday night we had all the kids for dinner.

Monday was my Granny's memorial it was great to see some of my family I haven't seen in a long time. I sometimes wish that we were closer. It seems in life we all get very busy in our lives. It is great when we are able to come together even under not so great circumstances. I was pretty tired last night when we got home.

Well have a great week, today I am going to pick up my prescriptions for my next chemo treatment on Thursday. Tomorrow I go for bloodwork and meet with my Oncologist to discuss my next treatment and hopefully how we are going to keep me out of the hospital going forward.

Cheers,
Liane

Great weekend

We had alot of fun last night at the horse races with my family. We had a "suite" at the very top of the homestretch. My stepmom said it was so I could be in quarantine lol. It was nice all glass windows that looked down on the track but it was like an oven in there. We all had fun and had our picture taken with the winning horse in race 9 for Diddy's birthday. Got home pretty late, good thing I had a nap before we went. My friend Andrea popped by the race track to say "hi" it was really nice to see her.

Tonite Marcel and I are heading over to our friends the Godfrey's for pizza and game night. We are bringing are new game redneck life. It should be a fun night.
Liane

TGIF

I got to come home today my neutraphil count was 1.4 climbing slower than last time but going in the right direction. The good news is I am home.

I came home to some sad news though I had an email from my stepson Bailey's auntie telling me that he had passed away last night. For those of you who don't know Bailey was my stepson for 5 years before I met Marcel. I was a part of his life from the time he was 1 - 6 years old. He was 14 years old when he passed away yesterday. I don't know how or what happened at this point, I did know he was in the hospital last week. I tried to keep in touch with him and his brother Brandan on FB.

This year has been so crazy already enough is enough!

Going to the horse races with my family tonite.

Not so smooth....

I am still in the hospital day 5, I am getting a bit frustrated. I have been here since Sunday morning. It wouldn't be so bad but I have felt fine since Monday. So I lay here everyday waiting for my silly neutraphils to go back up. I am at .5 today, last time the count came back so quick. This time I just don't get it....

Last night they had to change my IV for the 3rd time since I got here on Sunday. Now I get why my port was installed and why it should be used. My little veins that I do have are getting weak so they don't hold the IV very well. Last night they accessed my port so now I am good to go, but man does it smart when they access it.

My plan is to get that magical number up today not sure exactly how but positive thoughts. They are going to come take my blood at 6pm. I would love to go home tomorrow.

Take care
Liane

Trying to get the magic number up

Day 4 at CGH I am feeling fine but I guess my magic number is taking longer to bounce back yesterday it was only .4 so hoping when they take my blood tonite it does some magical multiplying. I would like to be out of here by Friday morning.

I am looking forward to a night out with my family at the horse races in cloverdale friday night.

I will let you know when they let me go home it cant be soon enough.

Deja Vu

So my plan to stay out of the hospital did not go according to plan. Sunday morning I woke up with a fever again and had to get the Bear to bring me out to Chilliwack at 2:00 in the morning. My neutraphil count was .3 so here I am back at the hospital for the next 5 days.

I guess we will be adjusting the chemo treatments now so this doesn't happen again.

I did have fun hanging out with my parents and T this weekend. Sorry I had to cut it short with a hospital trip. I'll keep everyone posted over the week.

The weekend

Well Marcel and the kids are on their way to Sunpeaks for the weekend. A little sad I am not going but I can't chance another hospital visit this week so I gotta stay home and rest. I am sure they will have a fabulous time. I am off to hang out with my parents and let thme take care of me for the weekend :)

I went to the Dr. yesterday for my sore throat he says that I probably have a yeast infection in my mouth from all the antibiotics. He did a swab and sent me for some blood work. I have another prescripiton to take. Last night we went to Richard and Tammy's for Nathan's bday dinner he is 6 already where does the time go? It was so good to spend time with the kids.

The heartburn the last 2 days has been crazy at night, I think it was the same last time I had chemo. Hope you enjoy your weekend!

Day 7 of round 2

Felt pretty good yesterday, had a funny taste in my mouth I couldn't get rid of all day. Also had some heartburn nothing too terrible. Had a nice quiet Valentine's, Marcel took me to the little chinese restaurant at Cultus Lake for dinner then we came home.

Last night went to bed at 9:30 woke up at 2:00am with a touch of a sore throat hope that goes away today. I was awake from 2:00am to 5:30am. Hope that's just a one night thing. No big plans today gonna rest and take it easy the next couple days, I gotta take it easy and keep healthy. The next few days are crucial to keep my numbers up :)

Happy birthday Darcie hope you have a terrific day sister!

Day 5 after 2nd treatment

I gotta say I am feeling pretty good this go round. I spent the day with my little sis on Friday, we went for a drive to Gill, Peg and Jespersons. It was a nice day to get out for a little drive. Saturday, I didn't do to much but still felt pretty good. Sunday we went out to Peg for a fire with the Godfreys and some friends. It was a nice day to sit by the fire. I definatley haven't been as nauseas this time around. I am all over making sure I take all my medicine on time.

I think today I will vacum and try and do a little laundry. Not too much though gotta keep that blood count good.

Talk to you soon,
Liane

Chemo treatment #2

I had my second chemo treatment yesterday, my stepmom took me this time. It was good I felt pretty good had the same feeling afterwards like I had a bit of a buzz going on. We went for lunch at Boston Pizza in Abbotsford on our way home. I had a little nap on the couch around 4:00pm felt pretty good a bit of nausea not to bad though. We had spaghetti for dinner and my stepmom left around 7:00pm when Marcel got home. Thanks for spending the day with me Bear. I went to bed about 8:00pm last night I was super tired.

Gonna hang out with my little sis Tiffany today and watch movies.

Next appts

Wed Feb 29th 12:00 blood work 1:00 with Dr. Uhlman
Thursday March 1st Chemo #3 - Dad's taking me

Talk to you soon,
Liane

Chemo tomorrow

Sounds like everything is a go for round 2 of chemo tomorrow at 10:45am. I met with Dr. Uhlman today after my blood work. We talked about how the last couple weeks went and decided we would do chemo tomorrow the same as treatment 1 we aren't going to change anything and see how this one goes. So I am crossing my fingers that I get through this cycle without any hospital visits. The lumps are starting to shrink :) that's exciting this is working. Have a great day ttyl.

Another great day!!!

I went for a walk with Tammy and the kids to Sardis Park, what a beutiful day to be outside. When I got home Dr. Uhlman called to let me know the results from my CT scan. Great news the cancer is only in my breast the original spot is about 2 - 3 cm and she says it seems to be in 2 lymph nodes. I am so lucky! I am going to get through this.

Thanks for all your positive thoughts and prayers it is working!

Luv ya,
Liane

What do the numbers mean?

So when I left the hospital yesterday I asked them about my blood count numbers. Most peoples neutraphil count should be between 2 and 8. The neutraphils are the infection fighting cells (your immune system) so when mine was .2 on Monday at the hospital that was not good at all. But yesterday it was 5 so I am in the normal range. I am so glad to be home what beautiful weather this weekend. I think I might go enjoy a little sunshine.

My husband is so amazing he made me breakfast, vacumed the house, went grocery shopping and to the pharmacy. I am so lucky to have him, he is so good to me.

Wednesday I head to the cancer clinic for blood work and to meet with Dr. Uhlman, crossing my fingers I can have my chemo treatment on Thursday.

Enjoy the rest of the weekend I know I am going to.

Liane

Going home

Yay I just got the ok to go home. I am so excited I just have to have my antibiotics at noon and then I can get out of here. The nursing staff on 5 north have been amazing, thank you for all your help.

Got my blood count from this morning I am at 5 that is fantastic!

We still need to be careful though I am supposed to have chemo on Thursday so I gotta stay healthy.

Thanks for all your positive thoughts.
Liane

Still here

Friday night and I'm still here, I asked to go home today but no such luck. They want to keep me for a couple more days. The nurses here are all great and work really hard. I guess the worst part is not being able to have visitors, it makes for a long day. I have done alot of texting with people the last couple days thank goodness I can have my phone. Well lets hope they let me outta here soon so I can enjoy some of the beautiful sunshine.

See you soon.
Liane

Monday who knew...

 I slept all morning until 1:30 in the afternoon got up and felt really faint. So I thought i should take my temperature. Hmm not good 39 degrees off to emergency we went.  They did some tests and found that my blood count was .4 they told me it should be around 1 so I would be staying. They gave me antibiotics and I fought the fever all night. The next day my blood count was .2 so I had to be isolated. No immune system sucks. Needless to say i have myself a private room at Chilliwack hospital until my blood count gets better. Hoping it gets better soon.

I appreciate everyones positive thoughts but the less visitors for me the better.

Sunday fun

Went to Moley's on sunday afternoon for family night. It was Chris and Mole's bdays so we went for pizza and cake. It was also the night my familywas going to shave my head. After pizza we got out the clippers and diddy started the shaving, she said she has been waiting her whole life for this lol. Everyone had a turn and at one point i had a mohawk. Brrr its cold with no hair.

I think things are on the up and up

Well had my CT scan yesterday. The day didn't start out to good I was feeling quite nauseas and weak. I went to the hospital for my CT scan they sent me down the hall to get a lovely gown on and wait. While I was sitting there I got very lightheaded and hot like I was going to pass out. So I asked to lay down, I started to fell a bit better then they came over to hook me up for the IV die. I felt fine and continued to lay there while I waited for my turn. I decided to get up and go to the washroom before it was my turn so I headed down the hall. While I was in the washroom I almost passed out. I managed to get out of the washroom and holding walls made it back to the bed. Then I realized I forgot my purse in the washroom, so I made my way back to get it. It was not good I am surprised I didn't hit the floor. I layed back on the bed and after about a half hour I was fine. At 10:00am they came and got me for my scan.

The scan itself was a piece of cake. When they inject the die it's kinda weird you can feel it go through you.

Here in Chilliwack yesterday there was a massive hydro fire. Of course while I was in the CT scan so the power shut down while they were doing my scan but they told me it had taken everything they need. The machine said breathe and then it was pitch black lol. Is that a sign??

I headed home to no power and had a bowl of cereal and a little nap.

Today I am feeling much better, I am hoping today is a turn around day for me the past few haven't been so great. I actually had a pretty good sleep last night. Feeling good so far today, keeping my fingers crossed.

TTYL

CT scan tomorrow

Just got a call they have a cancellation for tomorrow morning. My CT scan is at 9am good thing it's early so I can eat when I am done. I get a yummy iodine drink tonite then 3 cups of water before I go in the morning. Hopefully it will help with this heartburn I am having lol.

Who knew....

So they tell you that you may feel tired, nauseas etc...well they were right. I have had nights of hot sweats, then the next night no sweats but super nauseas (no puking thank goodness.) Then I slept pretty much all day Monday and half of yesterday. Then last night couldn't sleep a wink. I wish it would make up it's mind already. I am feeling pretty good today so I am hoping I am on the up and up for the next couple weeks. I guess it's not to much to ask I only had my first chemo treatment 5 days ago.

They tell me one day at a time so i guess patience is a virtue and I can't rush it. Hurry up already lol!

Good News

I saw Dr Wiggins yesterday he said my portocath has healed great. He also went over my bone scan results and the cancer is not in my bones!!!! WOOHOO.

Ahhh the weekend...

Well this weekend didn't shape up to be the best one yet. My granny passed away on Friday afternoon, Darcie called me at 9:30 luckily I was feeling pretty good so I rushed to her house to meet her and we headed for the ferry. We tried to go see my granny before she passed away. We got there seconds after she had taken her last breath. It was a tough day but she was 87 and lived a good life.

Darcie and I then went up to my grandad's to let him know she had passed away. That was definitely a tough moment but I am glad that we were able to go and spend time with him. We headed home on the 7:00pm ferry, mmm frosted flakes and popcorn for super on the ferry. Didn't really feel like much else. Diddy took me to her house I was exhausted so I stayed there over night.

On Saturday we went and hung out at the Bears, I think the chemo treatment was starting to catch up to me I was a bit nauseous. I had soup and grilled cheese at the Bears then I borrowed T's bed for a little nap. That night we went to Lloyd's for dinner it was delicious. Thanks again June for a great meal. I had Marcel bring me home around 8:00 as I was getting tired.

Today I have felt exhausted all day it's crazy how much energy it takes out of you. That's ok I am going to get through this. Just have to remember little steps and don't over do it.

This week I am going to relax, I go to see Dr. Wiggins for a follow up appt from my portocath surgery tomorrow at 4:30.  Then CT scan at the end of the month.

Blood Work and Dr. Uhlman on Feb 8th at 8:30 and my next chemo is Feb 9th.

Take care,

Liane

Cocktails anyone?

Day 1 of chemo today, Marcel took me to my appt for 1:00pm. We got there a little early so we sat in the waiting room. I felt really anxious while I was sitting there. Then they called me in and reality started to hit as we walked by all the stations to my station #8. Eileen my nurse was awesome she was so nice and caring. I sat in the chair and she explained all my medications to me and we went over some info. Then she set up my IV through my port. I iced it before but it is still very tender from surgery friday, so it hurt when she hooked it up.

I had a bit of a meltdown sitting in the chair while I was waiting for the pharmacist to mix up my chemo drugs. I think all of a sudden reality hit for me everything had worked up to this day. (sigh) Then she brought over the 2 drugs, the first one is as red as kool-aid. The second drug is just clear and takes about 45 minutes to run into my system. We were done by 3:00pm and headed home, well a short detour to Dwight and Michele's then home.

It's 7:20pm and I am still feeling pretty good, I like to call my treatment cocktail hour because I feel like I have had a few bevvies. :)

Talk to you later

Liane

Bone Scan today....holy Mr. Winter!!!

Ok so I got myself all wroked up for nothing. The bone scan was a peice of cake, it just sounds like it isn't. Marcel and I made the trek from Chilliwack in the blowing snow to Abby. We got there with lots of time to spare and safely.

We checked in to the Nuclear Imaging dept and they called me to do the injection. I had so much anxiety (not sure why.) Anyway they did the injection didn't feel a thing and I was in and out in 2 minutes. Then we had to come back at 1:30 for the scan. So we popped by Oma and Opas for a visit then headed back to the hospital. They called me for the scan and took me into this room with a big machine. They told me I could leave everything on incuding my boots and just lay down on the bed. They laid me down strapped my toes like a penguin and my arms wrapped at my sides. The bed slides into this scanning machine and you lay there for 15 mintues. Then they slide you out change the machine you put your arms above your head and they roll you back in for another 5. Piece of cake!

On the way home I asked Marcel to drop me off at the mall I needed one last pedicure. Pink toes before chemo tomorrow!!

I am radioactive for the next three days.

Chemo tomorrow at one, I promise I will keep you updated.

Cheers,
Liane

Chemo starts this Thursday

Ok I am not gonna lie feeling a bit overwhelmed today. Just got a call from the cancer clinic my first chemo appointment is this Thursday at 1:00pm. I am hoping for a speedy appointment and no nausea. Busy week bone scan tomorrow and chemo Thursday. I guess Friday is going to be a day of rest.

Today is my last day at work. Feels a bit more real today.

Chat soon!

Chemo Class.....and lots of snow!!!

Marcel and I made it back from Leavenworth, we had an amazing weekend. I was definatley a bit sore after the surgery it took me two days to feel normal but nothing I couldn't handle. My upper body just felt like I had been put through boot camp. The area seems to be healing well only a little bruising.

Marcel and I got up at 6:00AM to make the trek home from Leavenworth today we knew we had lots of snow to deal with for our trip home. It took us about 4 hours to get to Abby. I wasn't even white knuckled. We made it to chemo class with time to spare so we stopped for lunch at Milestone's (thanks to the Mierau Xmas party for the gift certificate.)

Chemo class was at the Abby cancer clinic. I would have to say it wasn't really worth our rush home and 2 and 1/2 hours of my life I will never get back. They talked alot about what to expect but it was very general and there were about 10 other people in the class with me.

What to expect:
(possibly every person is different).....fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, hairloss (for sure because of the chemo they are giving me) etc.....

I didn't really think it was very valuable because I have read lots about it and have asked lots of questions already so didn't really take away anything new.

I am still waiting for my chemo date they told me today they usually give you 24 hours notice and they are trying to get me in this week. Of course with the snow other patients are having to switch their appts so it's all up in the air.

Wednesday I go for my bone scan.

Take care for now :)

Portocath surgery complete...

I got home at about 4:30 from my surgery everything went well. Dr. Wiggins was late getting started though I didn't get into the OR until 1:30. I woke up in recovery at 3:00pm. He called Marcel and told him everything was fine and Tammy came to get me about 4:00pm.

When I was talking with Dr. Wiggins at the hospital today I told him I had seen Dr. Uhlman yesterday and Chemo was supposed to start next week he was very happy about that. He told me he has had 2 other patients with similiar breast cancer to me. They are both doing well and the one girl when when he went to do her mastectomy after chemo the cancer was almost gone. That's awesome!!!!

Anyway we are going to head down to the states, take care.

Ohh Bone scan in Abby on Jan 18th.

And CT scan in Chilliwack Jan 31st.

I'm a busy lady lol.

Cheers,
Liane

First meeting with the Oncologist

Well today answered alot of questions that have been eating at all of us fort he past week since I was diagnosed. Marcel, the Bear (Cathy my step mom) and I met with the Oncologist Dr. Dorothy Uhlman. She told us that because I am 36 years old the breast cancer I have is probably not hereditary. WOOHOO!!! She also said that because I am young and this cancer is aggressive the chemo should be aggressive in fighting it. The breast cancer I have is an invasive lobular cancer, it is ER +2 and PR - these are all good things. It means my estrogen is positive +2 and the progesteron is negative so when I take the Tamoxifin hormone replacement to fight the cancer after all my treatments and surgery I have a good chance of making the 5 years with no reoccorrance.

I start chemo class on Monday and should have my first chemo treatment at the end of the week. They also have me booked for a bone scan and CAT scan.

Yesterday was a pretty good day, today I go for surgery at 10:15 to have my shunt put in.

Marcel and I are off to Leavenworth for the weekend we will come home Monday and head to the chemo class.

Have a great weekend!

Love Liane