Port removal

Today was the day I got my port-a-cath removed!!!! Praise the Lord!!! It was done in the dr's office with just using lidocaine to deaden the area. It took some extra time to cut through the scar tissue but he finally was able to and get the tubing that was in the subclavin vein. He finally was able to get the whole port out. I was surprised how long the tubing was---about 5 inches!!! He asked if I wanted it...he was laughing but once he had a patient who wanted it. Nope, I just wanted to see it. Almost thought of taking a picture of it to put on my blog. lol but I didn't!!!! So far I've not had pain from the site but I think it's still deaden from the lidocaine. I think I have about 3 stitches but not sure for it's covered up with a dressing to stay for 48 hours. This dr. is a friend of mine so we just conversed about all kinds of things while he did the procedure...made the time go by much faster. It took about 30 minutes to do....longer than I thought it would. Anyway, that was the really last thing that needed to be done to end my journey with cancer. Guess I should say that this is the end of my blog. How do I end such a thing? I am so appreciative to all who have followed this journey. Especially those who have prayed for me. It's been an amazing journey...not one that I want to go through again or would want anyone to go through but I feel that this was a time that God really taught me so much and that my faith soared. I now am able to tell my testimony in hopes to encourage others to have faith in God. Love to you all!!!!

Hair and meeting

My hair is finally growing and still curly!!! My bangs are just about long enough to get it cut. I am going to put up a picture of my hair so you can see. I went to the breast cancer support group that we have in my town. I've not been in several months. Since we have a new cancer center, they remodeled the place where I last had chemo into a cancer empowerment room that has a beauty place so women can have someone help them with wigs and makeup. Wow, it's very nice. Wish it had been there when I was going through chemo. Most of the women at the meeting have been coming so they all had nametags but there wasn't one for me. That is what I get for not going. lol The last time I went, I was wearing my wig so I am guessing no one really recognized me for one lady asked if this was my first time to go. Awhile back, they gave us these cute bracelets and yesterday I received a charm that has 2010 on it to put on my bracelet. Each year we will get a new charm. New people are leading the group so that was different for I really liked the doctor that was leading it. Two other ladies finished their chemo about the time I did so they are getting hair too and we all have curly hair. lol. On Monday, I get my port taken out. I will be so happy. I have so enjoyed eating spinach lately and not having to worry about what I eat due to the blood thinner. However, I am trying to cut down the calories again for I was gaining weight. I have lost 3 1/2 pounds this week. I cut out all snacks and no desserts when at home. It has helped. Thanks for all your prayers and love. Love you all.

Doppler study

This morning I had a doppler study on my right arm which is really a sonogram. They were looking to see if I still have a clot or not behind my port-a-cath or anywhere else. They were training a new young lady and she had some difficulty doing it and took a long time but luckily I wasn't in a hurry. It was interesting watching and sometimes I wondered how in the world they could tell the difference between a vein and an artery. Anyway my doctor's office called me this afternoon to give me the results of the doppler studies. Praise the Lord!!! No clots were seen!! So, my doctor took me off Coumadin (blood thinner) today!! I was so excited...now I can eat whatever. I've been off spinach for over a year and I really like spinach, especially spinach salad. Also, I can eat cranberries again. Perfect timing since Thanksgiving is right around the corner plus I have a wonderful cranberry bread I like to bake. I went to Bible study tonight at church and we eat dinner there. Guess what was there? Spinach in the salad!!! Yummy!!! First time to eat spinach since May 30 2009!!! I will be having the port removed on November 8. I am beginning to feel normal again. What a wonderful feeling. Thanks for your prayers and love.

Doctor's visit with CT Scan results

Went to see the onocologist on Wednesday. He came into the room with a smile on his face saying that the CT scans were good. However, there is a small nodule on the right lung..Very small. The radiologist was surprised that it was picked up since it was so small. He didn't seem to be too concerned but will check it in a couple of years to be sure all is okay. So, I can have the port-a-cath out. The appointment date for the port removal is Nov. 8!!! It will be done in the surgeon's office. I asked about the blood thinner...not sure which dr. would be the one to take me off the medication. He will take care of it but I have to have a doppler which is a sound wave x-ray over my arm and shoulder to be sure the clot has dissolved. The doppler will be done on Wednesday, Oct. 27. I hope it is clear. It was so wonderful to come out of that cancer center with such fantastic news!!!! Larry and I went out to eat to celebrate!!!! Thank you Lord!!!

I finally found my blow dryer and used it on my hair the other day. I am needing to learn how to fix my hair...curling up at times and looking funky, so I think. Cute in front but funky in back. lol.... Have a wonderful day and thank you, thank you for all your prayers throughout my journey. This journey is about to end....well, sort of. Love you all.....

Cat Scan

I had two cat scans the other day. One was for the chest and the other for the abdomen/pelvis. This was done to see if there is any cancer. I've not received the results yet but will next week on Wednesday when I see my onocologist. I feel that everything is going to be okay. When they did the cat scan, they had to start an IV on me. I already had blood work earlier that day so was hoping they could use the same vein since it was my best vein. They had a new guy who was going to start my IV. I thought, oh, no....hope he gets it, so kept praying the whole time that he would be able to do it. Well, he didn't but he didn't take it out and the other tech was able to get it in. He said the first guy just wasn't aggressive enough to stick a little further to get into my vein. Didn't hurt.....the tech later thanked me for being patient with the first guy. I told him that I understood since I worked as a nurse and I at one time had to learn too. The barium I had to swallow later made me a little sick with diarrhea and a gurgling tummy. After a few hours, I was okay.

Other than that, I've been doing pretty good. Still trying to decide whether to grow my hair out or not. People keep asking me if I'm going to grow it long or keep it short. Just haven't decided. I'm getting used to it being short, lol but wonder what it would be like again to have long hair. it grows very slow though. Thanks again for checking up on me. I am excited about seeing my doctor again and hoping that I get my port out. Today I have to go get blood work to check for cancer markers and other things. Have a great day...love you all.

coumadin level

Today I went in for a coumadin level which is to be between 2-3. It was 2.5 which is perfect!!! This is the 4th time to be where it needs to be . I am so happy that we finally have the dosage where it needs to be. I also went to the cancer center to have my port flushed with heparin. I told the nurse that I am hoping that this is the last time for I hope to get my port taken out by next month. Her dad just had his taken out and by the same dr. that I will have. She says that the port is taken out in the doctor's office. I didn't know for sure how it was done so I am glad to hear that so I won't have to go through day surgery. I hate having anesthesia for I get sick every time. I will have a CT Scan next Wednesday then I see the doctor on the 20th of October. Just 2 weeks away!!!

My hair is growing and still curly. I had a several compliments today but it's starting to drive me crazy. Yes , can you believe I actually said that. There is one section that sticks out. I try curling it under with curling iron then hair spraying it. I don't usually have short and curly hair so not sure how to fix it up. I am also trying to decide whether to get a haircut or let it grow out some more. Decisions, decisions. But I am so happy to have hair!!!!

My energy level is the same...some days I am so tired and can fall asleep easily. I read books to the boys during lunch and sometimes I almost fall asleep. They laugh at me. It is funny, I'm sure. Then there are days that I am just fine. Still have joint stiffness so will be glad when port is out so I can take some medication to help. I can't right now since it will interact with the Coumandin that I take.

This past Saturday, my hospital had a "Pink Ribbon Run" for raising funds for our cancer center's educational room. My whole family participated. Most of us walked the mile but Brandon ran the 5K and came in 4th for his age group. It was his first time to run a race. He loved it and is going to run another 5K for Down Syndrome in a couple of weeks. A friend of his ran too and came in first in his age group and 2nd overall. We all got free t-shirts for being in the Pink ribbon run. I am getting quite a collection of pink shirts for being a cancer survivor. lol. Well, thanks for keeping up with me on reading this post. I'm sorry I don't post very often but there just isn't alot to say. Love you all.

Reflection of last year

I was thinking about what I was doing last year at this time. I was taking chemo and having a hard time keeping up with school with the boys. The boys were good about doing their school work but I was awful in taking the time to grade papers, especially essays, etc. This year I am more organzied and have been keeping up with their papers and school work. It is so nice not to be going off to the doctors and chemo clinic, etc every week. Seems like last year, I had somewhere to go at least once a week and sometimes more. Last year the boys couldn't drive but this year they can so it's nice that I am not going to town very much. I wish Christopher was driving last year but that didn't happen. It was hard to get that drivers ed done so that is something we aren't doing either this year. This year is just a smoother year. I am glad about that.

Another reflection that Larry had. My hair started to grow back at this time so what I have now is a year's worth of hair growth!!! Hard to believe. Since I've not had to use a blow dryer since May 2009, I can't find mine now. lol. I wanted to use it the other day but couldn't find it. I think I put it up somewhere but not sure. Need to do some more looking. Maybe I let my daughter have it but I don't think so.

I bought some medications over the counter to help with the joint stiffness but found out that it will interact with my blood thinner, Coumadin, so I can't take it. Bummer. Hopefully I will be off Coumadin by Novemeber so will save the medication until I can use it. Well, life is definitely much better for me this year!!!! I am looking forward to going to the mountains with my mom this weekend. What fun---just mom and daughter time. Love you all....

Coumadin check and flush

This past Thursday, I had a coumadin level done. It was 2.8 which is on the higher end of "normal" so all is great. I get to go another whole month before being tested again. This is great news. One thing I've done different to help my level is to quit drinking green tea. I didn't realize that can hurt your level. No problem, I've not had green tea since I learned about the effects of green tea on coumadin levels. I was only drinking it since I knew it was suppose to be good for you. lol..Oh, well, I'll start back on it when I quit taking the coumadin. After having my level checked, I went downstairs to the cancer center to have my port-a-cath flushed with heparin to keep it open in case I need it later. Was nice to walk in the chemo clinic knowing that I only had to stay for a few minutes. They weren't busy at all so the nurse had everything ready when I walked in. I think I was there for about 5-10 minutes. Luckily, the port was just fine. I will go again in a month to have the port flushed.

Everything is going pretty much the same. It 's kinda of weird but I seem to notice the numbness in my breast area more lately. Not sure why but I do. Seems that I am shaving my legs more too so guess my hair is growing better. lol. I bought a sticker for my car--one of the pink ribbon ones that says Breast Cancer Awareness. I saw one today at the store that says survivor. I would have liked that one better but it's okay. Hope everyone is doing fine. Thank you for continuing to check up on me. Love you all......by the way, I've not tried bowling lately...not sure I will for a long time. lol.

Bowling experience

Things are going fairly well. My hair is growing very slow but it's at a cute length so am happy with it. Not sure if I will grow it out long or not. Wish it would stay curly but I've heard that once it gets cut, that I will eventually lose the curls. My joint pain is less these days. Still have some trouble especially when I want to bend down to pick something up off the ground/floor. A couple of weeks ago, I took my kids bowling and decided I would bowl too. What a mistake.....I could hardly bowl. I like to bend down to roll the ball but I couldn't do it well at all. I was so sore the next couple of days. I guess bowling is out for me......just can't bend down low at all. It was the worse score I've done in years. I'm sure the kids wanted to laugh out loud but they were kind enough not to laugh or make remarks. I'm sure I looked funny trying to figure out how to bowl without bending much. lol. Hope you are all doing great. My brother in law who had the prostate cancer got a good report the other day....his PSA was less than 1 which is wonderful. He is cancer free!!!!! I will be getting a coumadin level check next week plus my port flushed with heparin. The only other complaint I have had is that there are times when my breast where I had the cancer feels heavy and painful in the morning when I wake up. During the day, I have no problems. Thanks for keeping up with me and I'm sorry I've not written in quite a while. Just not much to report on. Love you....

Last Treatment

Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, rejoice!

Monday was a grand day for me!!! Had my last Herceptin treatment and boy, was I excited. I was to be there at 11 for Brandon had a doctor's appt. at 9:30 and I wanted to be sure there was plenty of time for his appt. Well, Brandon got in and out very quickly so there I was at 10 am and right next door to the cancer center so I called and they said I could come in early. Larry had planned to be with me while I had the last treatment. He had not seen the new chemo clinic. So, I messed up his plans but I told him not to worry for it usually takes 1 1/2 hours to have my treatment. He planned to come over at 10:30 but got stuck in his office with one of his employees and wasn't able to get away until 11. And wouldn't you know that of all days, my treatment was done in only 1 hour. I walked out of the chemo clinic and Larry was driving into the parking lot. Sorry Larry....I made chocolate chip cookies for the nurses and staff which they appreciated. Also, I talked to them about buying a fish for their tank so they told me where to go buy one for the owner of this shop cleans their tank and knows the fish that is in the tank already. I will do that soon. I always enjoyed watching the fish. After my treatment was done, Larry and I went out to lunch at Olive Garden with some friends to celebrate!!!! What fun we had. Our waitress was someone we all knew and she gave us lots of extra mints afterwards and those are my favorite mints. (Andes mint). Larry ended up taking the rest of the day off so after he got home, we spent time together playing cards. Sarah joined us for a couple of games. Had a nice relaxing day. It is hard to believe I am done with all the IV treatments. Went through 15 months of treatments. I will have to go back in a month to have my port flushed with heparin but that takes just a minute to do. Will go there when I have my next coumadin level checked since it's all in the same building. I will see the doctor on Oct. 20 after I have some cat scans. Thanks to all of you who have followed my journey and have prayed for me all these months. Thanks , Mom, for all you've done for me. God has used this journey to draw me closer to Him and to others. He has delivered me from cancer and I give him all the praise and glory for that. I know He has been there every moment helping me get through this tough time. He gave me the peace I needed to navigate through this journey. What a wonderful feeling that was to have that peace, knowing that God is with me and that He knows what is best for me even though I may not understand why I had to go through this journey. All I had to do was lean on him and trust Him for all things. I hope I passed the test....:). Love you all...... (oh, I will have a hamburger cookout this Sat. around 6 pm...welcome to come...just let me know)

Isaiah 48:17 This is what the Lord says: I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.

coumadin level

Psalm 145:3 Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no on can fathom.

Sorry that I've not written in quite a while. I had a coumadin level check yesterday and it was perfect at 2.5!!! That was the first time to have it checked a month later so again, I get to wait for another month to have it checked. I am so happy about the level check. I also had blood drawn at the cancer center. I am to have Herceptin on Monday...my last treatment. Since it is my last treatment, I want to celebrate. First I thought we would just go out for dinner but now I am thinking of having a party at my house and invite my neighbors who helped out and some others who helped out and supported us. And if any of you live nearby, you are invited too. I will have it on saturday....august 14 in the evening. I am trying to think of what I can do for a memorable favor thing. Not sure yet. I am going to bake cookies for the nurses at chemo center and I want to buy a fish for their salt water fish tank. I went to Petco to check on what fishes they have so thinking of getting them a clown fish. I would get it on Monday except my son has a dr. appt before I go have my Herceptin so wouldn't be wise do that plus store doesn't open that early. I will ask to be sure it's okay to buy a fish and then do it shortly afterwards. I am doing great these days besides my "chemo brain". I still have joint stiffness and neuropathy in toes but other than that I am okay. Oh, sometimes I have the fatigue too. The other day we went on a field trip to see some painted rocks (Indian pictographs) and when the lady was talking, I was falling asleep and this was at 10 am. I was so embarrassed for what she said was interesting but I just do that at times. Well, thank you so much for keeping up with my journey...it's close to the end. Guess I can't say it's really over until I see the CT Scans in October but treatments are ending. Praise the Lord. I will say that the only thing I regret about my journey is the fact that I didn't have good church family at the time. I went to a church for 20 years that was family and they would have been right there for me (a couple were and they did pray for whenever I see someone like at the store, they ask how things are going with my treatments). But we had left that church 3 1/2 years prior to my having cancer then we were at a small church that would have been helpful but left it 1 1/2 years prior to the cancer. The church I go to now is large and even though some knew, they just weren't there to help out except one lady but I have known her for years through homeschooling. I really wish I had been in a better church but God used others like neighbors and friends and family to be my support group and I had to rely on Him so much more too. And my out of town friends were so encouraging with words, emails, cards, phone calls, prayers, etc. It all worked out so am thankful.....Love you all.

Psalm 145:7 They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.

Doctor visit and Herceptin treatment

Psalm 118: 24 This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

I wrote this yesterday but somehow I lost all that I wrote so am redoing it today. I was too tired yesterday to redo it then. Anyway, I went to the onocologist this past Monday. Talked with his nurse practioner too. My heart test that I had a couple of weeks ago was great. Shows that my heart hasn't changed at all from the first one which is great news. However, I did have a disappointment. I was hoping to have my port taken out after the last herceptin treatment which is on August 9. But, the doctor says I have to wait until I have a CT Scan of my abdomen, pelvis, and chest which won't be done until mid October. Then I see the doctor again on Oct. 20. If the CT Scan is good, no cancer evident, then I can have the port taken out. That means I have to continue taking coumadin for a few more months...oh, well....that is okay. Since I won't be having any treatments in Sept. or Oct., I will have to go to the chemo clinic to have a heparin flush to keep the port working. Heparin is a blood thinner and is use to keep lines open. They flush with heparin after each of my treatments. Guess I will be having surgery in Novemeber to have the port taken out (at least I hope). I talked to the nurse practioner about my joint stiffness. She says it is mainly from chemo. Could be some from getting older and some early arthritis but mainly from chemo. I have the joint stiffness mainly in the morning when I get up, when I get out of a chair, and especially when I get out of the car. I am sure people laugh at me when I go to Walmart or some store, and can't even stand up straight when I get out of the car. I must look like a old woman....lol.

I also had my herceptin treatment after seeing the doctor. It was going well which was good for I needed to hurry because I was babysitting that afternoon. Well, I had a float nurse who doesn't usually work there. My medicaton quit infusing but my nurse was starting an IV on a patient. Most patients have ports but once in a while, someone needs an IV started. Well, my nurse had trouble so I couldn't get her to fix my medicatin and wouldn't you know, the other nurse was also starting an IV. Then my nurse took off (maybe to lunch) so it was over 30 minutes before I could get someone to fix my medication. I was frustrated for it only takes 3o mintues for my medication to infuse and here it was....an extra 30 minutes. Usually it wouldn't bother me but that day I was in a hurry...oh, well....there was nothing I could do. I just have one more treatment left. Yea!!!

My hair is looking pretty good these days. I am getting used to short hair...um..maybe I should keep it short. Ummm....lol. We'll see...I am just happy to have hair. That was one of the hardest things about my cancer. For a woman, that is hard. Thanks to all for you love and interest in how I am doing. Thanks for your prayers. Love you all..

Psalm 118:28-29 You are my God, and I will give you thanks; you are my God, and I will exalt you. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Hair

Here is how my hair looks now. This is how it looks naturally....I just let it dry on own without blow drying or using a curling iron.

Great week

Romans 5:3 We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance character, and character hope.

This past week has been a good one for me. I had my last 2D echo heart test done this past Tuesday. I am sure all is okay...heart sounded good and I could see it pumping on the screen as she was testing my heart. Also, on Friday, I had a coumadin level check and it was great--2.6!!! (needs to be between 2.0-3.0) I finally get to have one month checks ---yea!!! I have my next Herceptin treatment on July 20 which is coming up soon. I have been feeling pretty good these days. My hair is growing and looking pretty nice these days. I am getting to like it short...nice on these hot summer days. However, I still would like for it to grow longer to see what it will look like.

The only problem is my husband's health. He's having heart spasms that occur at times and makes him faint or have dizzy spells. The doctors can't figure out yet what is the cause of these spasms. He almost fainted yesterday in HEB. Just pray that they will find the cause so they will be able to treat his problems. Every time he does some exercise or activity using his arms, he seems to have these spells. He played Wii golf the other day and now the spells. Poor guy....I ended up having to finish mowing the lawn today since he started to have a spell again. Thanks for your prayers.

I John 5:14-15 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us--whatever we ask--we know that we have what we asked of him.

Doing well

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

I am so sorry that I've not posted in quite a while. I am feeling much better these days. My fatigue is even better....still get tired at times but not like it was. Praise the Lord. I had Herceptin this past Monday (June 28) and all went well. The nurse scared me though for she had trouble getting a blood return from my port. They always check to be sure the port is working by pulling back the syringe to see if blood comes out of the port. They have never had any problems with my port. So, here it is near the end of my treatments and I thought my port was acting up. The nurse decided that the needle was next to the edge. She finally got some blood back so all is well. I have only 2 more Herceptin treatments left. Yea!!! I plan to have my port taken out when the treatments are done so that means I will have to have surgery to have it removed. It will be simple and a day surgery procedure but I hate having surgery. Oh, well.....

My hair is growing. The front is finally down to the bottom of my ear lobes. It's somewhat curly in the back but I hear that it's like baby hair and will grow straight after awhile. I will get someone to take a picture of me soon so I can post it and you can see it. I am liking it much better.

We have a horse and the farrier came out last week to shoe the horse's hooves. Turns out he has rectal cancer and we have the same doctor so we enjoyed conversing about our cancer and treatments, etc. He wears a pump to have his chemo infusing all day long for 5 days in a row. He is doing this for 6 weeks. It doesn't make him sick so he just carries on like usual but he gets tired. My brother-in-law just has a few days left of his radiation treatments so I know he will be happy to have that behind him. Hopefully all is well. I think he'll have a PSA test soon but not sure about that.

I still have problems with chemo brain (so they call it) where I can't always come up with the correct word or name of things. My kids tell me that I am just getting old but I know that it is from the chemo because I wasn't that bad before cancer. Oh, well....it's not too bad so I won't complain.

Tonight is our breast cancer support meeting but not sure I will go or not. I learn some things there but really find it hard to meet people there. It's a rainy day here and I don't have to go to town, so it will be real easy just to stay home. I've been busy this summer babysitting some kids so not home alot. Thanks for checking up on me. Love you all.....Keep praying for me!!

Galatian 6:2a Carry each other's burdens and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

coumadin level, heat problems

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Went today for a coumadin level check and it was fantastic for once. The level was 2.4!!! Finally got the level to where it needs to be. I don't have to go back for another 3 weeks. The newest thing I've been doing is trying to lose weight. I am doing this mainly by cutting out the desserts and snacks. I've lost 6 pounds so far, however, I went out to eat today. I tried to be somewhat good so we'll see tomorrow if I gained weight or not. I'm so bad about losing then gaining it all back in one meal. I am surprised that I've been doing great without any sweets since I have such a sweet tooth. No cravings yet so I am feeling good about it. I gained weight during chemo time and just trying to get through cancer treatments. Guess I just ate whatever. :) Then I gained alot when my dad got cancer and died---too many sweets around. Time to lose weight.

I have a little job this summer which is keeping me busy. I take my neighbor's 2 kids to the pool and this past week I took them to tennis camp then to the pool. Yesterday we were outside from 10 am to 4 pm. I got home and started to feel really bad---had chills, muscle aches and a headache. I went outside to warm up and still had chill bumps when Larry came home. I felt really exhausted too but somehow was able to manage to fix dinner but right after I ate, I laid down and took a long nap. When I woke up, I felt really hot and took my temp---100.3. I think I had some kind of heat exhaustion. I'm going to have to be more careful---drink more water. I was also sunburned....I was in the shade all day and didnt' feel hot but guess I should be sure to use sunscreen and drink lots and lots of water.

Today was the first time someone looked at my driver's license and noticed that my hair is different. It happened at Walmart. The cashier asked what happened to my long hair. So I told her. Her mom had chemo 3 times and each time her hair came back darker and curlier. Well, I hope this is the only time I have to have chemo. Well, thanks for your love and support and prayers. Love you all......

Roman 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

New cancer clinic & dr's visit

I Chronicles 16:10-11 Glory in his Holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. look to the Lord and his strength, seek his face always.

I went to see my onocologist on Monday and all my blood work looked great. I am nearing the end of my treatments....yea.....August 9 will be my last Herceptin treatment. I will have one more echocardiogram to be sure my heart is still doing okay. After I have my last treatment, I won't have to have another heart test so the one in July will be last one. It is good to be seeing the end of the tunnel.

I had Herceptin on Monday too. The chemo clinic is much larger. There is an actual nurse's station. Before, they were just in the middle of the room. The only bad thing I think about having the nurses station at one end of the chemo clinic is that they can't watch all their patients well. What if someone is having a bad time, they are far off. There are no call buttons so you couldn't call for help. Of course, someone is always having to do something for someone so there is someone around usually. The floor is wooden looking..and there are about 14 chairs and each has their own TV that is on a arm thing that you can move to the side or wherever...it is kept behind the chairs when not used. The screen is small but that is okay. Of course, the nurses now can't watch TV like they did before. lol. There is plenty of space for the aquarium which is placed in the middle so we can see the fish. There are nice chairs next to each recliner chair so each person can have a visitor and there is room for more than one visitor. And you can see that they have new organizers for all their equipement and it's handy for the nurses. They also have a room with a bed in case they have a patient too weak to sit in a chair. They haven't had that before. They have their own pharmacist too but they had that in the first one too but I'm sure it's much nicer.

They have 7 exam rooms for the doctor--there were only 3 before. Plenty of room for another doctor to come. The nurses station for the doctor is much larger and nicer too. The nurses seem quite pleased with all the new stuff.

Thanks for praying for me. I am feeling about the same...get tired easily, some hot flashes and slow hair growth. The numbness in toes and breast areas drive me crazy at times but I just have to get used to it. lol. All in all, I'm going great!!!! Praise God!!! Love you all.

Colossians 3:1-2 Since, then , you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.

Coumadin level

Isaiah 12:5 Sing to the Lord for He has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world.

I had my coumadin level checked yesterday. Finally it has gotten to the level it needs to be but it's at 2.0 which is at the low end. I need to be between 2.0-3.0 so the head nurse decided to up my dosage just a tad bit to try to get me in the middle. I got scratched today by a kitten and it bled easily so guess my blood thinner is working.

The doctors' building where my onocologist, chemo clinic, and coumadin clinic is located has been under construction--building on a whole new section. (Three stories). The first story in the new area is the new cancer clinic. It is now complete so I got to go there yesterday to have blood drawn since I have a doctor's appt and herceptin on Monday. I haven't seen the whole clinic yet but what i have seen, I was quite impressed. The waiting room is 10 sizes bigger!!! It even has a fridge with drinks that you can help yourself and crackers and the TV is bigger. Each receptionist has their own desk and a huge area behind them for the copy machine, etc. The area is about 5-6 times bigger than they had before. The lab tech had her little area in the store room before and now she has her own room with the sign "Lab" on the door (she mentioned that to me). I peeked into the chemo clinic and saw that it was bigger and I hear that at each chair, there is a TV for each person. I will let you know more when I go there on Monday. Can't wait to see the rest of the area. I know they are so happy to have the new space and there is space to add another doctor which is what my doctor wants. While the construction was going on, the chemo clinic had to move downstairs in a very tiny area so they have been cramped for several months so I am sure they are happy to be in the new area. I figured that I have 4 more Herceptin treatments left to enjoy this new area. They should have their own pharmacist again which will make things go faster.

I have been busy grading papers and doing report cards for the past week or so. I didn't realize how behind I was until I started grading....way behind. Then I realized that this has been a tough school year with me having chemo, then radiation and living in San Antonio, then my dad getting cancer and dying. Three major things in one school year!!! But we made it and all papers are graded and report cards done along with updating transcripts!! Whew....now I can begin to enjoy summer!!! Praise God!!!

Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, he will rejoice over you with singing.

Relay for Life

Lamentations 3:58 O Lord, you took up my case; you redeemed my life.

Last week, I participated in our town's relay for life. It was a very awesome and emotional experience for me. When I was walking the survivor lap which was the first lap, people just kept clapping and clapping the whole time we were walking. I would say that about half way around, I got quite teary eyed. It was neat to think, yes, we survived and these people are clapping for us as we've been victorious in this battle!!!! I just can't describe exactly what I was feeling. I just praise God for allowing me to be here today. As we finished our lap, we had balloons and let go of them....so cool to see all those balloons up in the air. Our caregivers joined us as we walked the 2nd lap. Larry and I walked hand in hand. I am so thankful that Larry was there to care for me throughout my battle. Wish my kids had been there too for they helped care for me along with my sister and mom. I walked the 3rd lap too with my friend, Teresa. Everyone was invited to walk that 3rd lap. Teresa was walking with her team until 9 pm so I would get off and rest then rejoin her and a team mate. I walked 7 laps. There was a tent in the middle of the field for survivors that had free food for us ....fruit, muffins, and cookies plus water and other drinks. That was so sweet of them. We stayed until about 10 pm....needed to go home for we left to go to San Antonio the next morning to see my nephew, Chris, graduate from high school !!!

This past week, I've struggled with fatigue. I don't know if the heat has made it worse or what but it has been hard on some days. Not so bad today though. Also, I've noticed the numbness I have in my toes more. I noticed it when my chemo was finishing (it is a side effect from chemo) but didn't notice it so much during the winter. Maybe it was because I was wearing enclosed shoes all the time whereas I am now barefoot or in sandals or flip flops. It really feels weird.

My hair is growing so slow. I even notice that the hair on my legs and underarms grow slow too. I don't shave often like I used to before chemo. Wonder if the cancer pill I take causes it to slow down. Should investigate that one. Also, the numbness in my left upper breast seems more noticeable ....drives me crazy sometimes at night. I know , that sounds weird but that is the way it is. I just have to live with it .......:). It's okay....I am happy to be here and it's not painful so no reason to complain or worry about it. It's just a part of my 'new' life. I am looking forward to this summer since last summer I was going through chemo and missed out on 'summer' in some ways. I am enjoying "gardening" and just look forward to spending time with friends, etc. I have a little part time job--taking my neighbor's kids to the swimming pool. There are big shade trees there so I will sit underneath those trees and try to stay cool. I don't plan to get in the pool though. Hope everyone is having a great weekend. In fact, last Memorial Day, I was in the hospital with a blood clot in my shoulder area behind my port. Wow, it's nearly been a year when that happened. That is when I started taking coumadin.

Love you all......thanks for your concerns and love and prayers. Let me know if I can pray for you!!!

James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.

Relay for Life and Coumadin level

Psalm 139:14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

Went for my coumadin level today and it was still low. What's up? The tech thought that maybe it's because I am healthier now so need a higher dose. Maybe while taking chemo and radiation, my body just didnt' need much of the medication. So, my dosage went up. I even ate less green vegetables to see if that would help but guess it didn't . Guess I could go back to eating salads. Maybe it's because I've gained weight. OH, well....we'll see how the higher dose works. I go back in 2 weeks to have the level checked again.



Relay for Life in our town starts tonight!!!! I am going to walk the survivor lap and then caregivers join the survivors on the 2nd lap. My best friend is walking too with others from where she works so I'll join her too and walk some more. I am excited about this!!! Wish my kids would join me but alas, they could care less....teenagers!!! :) One has a good excuse...going on a boy scout campout tonight on land near our land.

Thanks again for you love and concern on my condition. You are all so sweet to check on me. I am feeling pretty good except the fatigue that I experience quite frequently. If I can get in a nap, then I do just great.

Psalm 138:7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life.

Herceptin

Jeremiah 29 :11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.



Today I received herceptin. Just 3 more months then I will be done with the herceptin. Can't wait. Everything went well....My blood pressure was fantastic and they got my medicine quickly so I wasn't there too long. The clinic where I take my Herceptin and had chemo had to move to a smaller space back in the late summer or so for they are adding on to the building. All of the cancer stuff will be on the first floor and all together. It should open the first part of June so when I go get my next herceptin and have my doctor's appt. I will get to be in the new building. I go on June 7. I hear that it's much bigger than the old one and of course lots bigger than the area they have had to be in while waiting. I'm glad I will get to have treatments in the new building.



My hair is growing and getting quite wavy. It's thick too. Will be glad when it's much longer but am happy that I have hair. Still can't do much with it though. I am so tired today...not sure why. Might take a nap here soon. I tried to sleep while getting herceptin but noisy there.



My brother-in-law started his radiation last week. I am thinking that today will be his 3rd day.



It was a year ago when I had my first chemo treatment---May 19!!! So hard to believe that a year has gone by. I was listening to a couple of ladies talk about their chemo treatments while I was receiving my herceptin. Brought back memories...and not the happy ones either. I am glad that part of my life is over. I am so thankful for all of you who prayed for me during those days. I couldn't have made it without those prayers. This Friday is the relay for life and I am excited about walking the survivor lap. Come on out and watch---at 7 pm at the university's track stadium. Love you all.....

Jeremiah 17:7 But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes, its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and neveer fails to bear fruit.

Mother's Day

Proverbs 31:28 Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms who read my blog. I am so thankful that I am here to celebrate another Mother's Day. Last year, at this time, I was getting ready to start chemo...had surgery for port placement a few days before. I remember thinking that I hope to celebrate many more Mother's Day so here is the first Mother's Day after surviving cancer!!!! Praise the Lord!! I hope each of you that are mom's have a great Mother's Day too. Happy Mother's Day to my own mom. She has been a great supporter through my whole journey with cancer. Love you Mom....I appreciate all the wonderful things you have done for me....going with me to chemo, taking care of me afterwards, the phone calls and emails always checking up on me, faithfully reading my blog, the sweet gifts, going with me to pick up boys from Worldview camp (that was a fun trip), praying, and just loving on me. I love you , Mom.

I had a coumadin level done on Friday. It was still low but a tad bit higher than the previous level. It was 1.8. The nurse was afraid to increase my dosage except she just increased Friday's dose. She thinks that they are checking it too much and should give it time for the higher doses to catch up in my body. We just can't figure out why it's low. I am now wondering if that new cancer medication is the reason. I started that in Feb. I will ask the next time I go which will be in 2 weeks. I worked all day yesterday cleaning my house which really tired me out and today I feel so stiff. Didn't do anything that strenous so not sure why my body feels like I've gone on a hike. lol. My hair is growing so slowly but at least I have hair and it's thick. It seems before cancer that my hair was fast growing for I was always needing to cut my bangs. It has grown so won't complain. I am trying to learn not to complain about my hair....I am happy that I have some.

I think that my brother-in-law starts his radiation treatments this next week. He is ready to get it started and going so he can be done with it. Thanks for all your prayers and support. Love you all. Again....Happy Mother's Day. And to the ones who aren't moms yet and to the ones who are moms, tell your mom that you love them.

Proverbs 31:29-31 Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

brother in law

Psalm 37: 3-5 Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.

Sorry I haven't written in a week. The days went by so fast last week; or so it seemed. lol. I've been feeling pretty good but just still battling with fatigue. I'm afraid it's something that I will have to battle with for awhile. I'm sure many of you can relate for some time or other in your life, you've had that same battle whether from pregnancy, raising kids, sickness, etc. You just make yourself go on when there are things to do. The only medical thing I have this week is a coumadin level on Friday. I hope it's good this time.

My brother-in-law whose prostate cancer is not completely gone will be having 38 radiation treatments--hopefully starting next week. Apparently there isn't a problem with the skin burning like in breast cancer for they go in deeper. Lucky him--I'm glad he doesn't have to deal with that. It will be just an annoyance in having to go in to do the treatments every day plus it ruined their vacation plans that they had already made. What a bum deal for him and family but his boys were so good about it for they said they would rather have their dad than the vacation. I just pray that the radiation gets all the cancer this time.

I had been praying for a lady named Paula who had ovarian cancer. I don't know her personally but knew her brother back in high school. He and I had just gotten connected on facebook when his sister was diagnosed and they had a blog thing on facebook--called a group page--Praying for Paula. I sent her several scriptures that helped me during my battle with cancer and encouraging words. She really had a tough time for the cancer had spread and she fought courageously and had lots of strength and faith but she passed away this past week. I was deeply touched by it for some reason and cried. I know she is better off now for she won't have to suffer anymore. Made me realize how fortunate I was that I didn't have to face the hard things that she had to go through. Also , a good friend of mine, Heather (hi Heather) lost a good friend of hers about the same time to cancer. He had been battling his cancer for years. I had prayed for him too.....he isn't suffering anymore either. These losses made me really think hard about cancer and how lucky I am. Thanks to all of you who have prayed for me. Our town is having a Relay for Life (a fundraiser for cancer) on May 21. I will be there....walking the survivor walk and thinking about the people I know who have lost their lives to cancer. Come and walk or at least go to the Relay for Life if you live in our town or whenever your town has one. It's a worthy cause!!!! I went last year just to see what it was all about....enjoyed the speeches of people who had cancer...what inspirations they were. Two of them died this past year too. How sad.....

II Thessalonians 2:16 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.

Doctor's visit

Psalm 118: 28-29 You are my God and I will give you thanks; you are my God, and I will exalt you. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Today was a busy medical day for me. First I went to the coumadin clinic to have my level checked and it was still at 1.7 which is low. It's only been a week and there was no change so they increased my level again. I go back in 1 1/2 weeks this time. Then I went to the onocologist. A lady doctor walked in, Dr. Reddy, (looks like from India) and I thought maybe they have a new doctor. I knew he was wanting a doctor to help out but it turns out that my regular onocologist is on a medical mission trip to Kenya, Africa. That is cool!!!! Dr. Reddy was just taking over while is is gone. I wonder how long he'll be gone...forgot to ask. Anyway, the doctor was really nice. In fact, she said that I should have my breasts examined every 4 months by a doctor. I haven't had that done so she checked it for me and she found nothing. Praise God!!! My bone density test was good and my cancer markers were good too. Also, my heart test was good so everything but coumadin was good today!!!! Praise God again!!! I went down to the chemo clinc and had Herceptin given. It was the quickest time ever!!! I was thrilled about that. My main problem is fatigue...the nurses tell me I should rest more. Oh, yea....I get myself too busy at times. lol. There are times I stop to take a power nap. Should get in a habit of going to bed earlier--maybe that would help. lol. Oh, well.....thanks for your prayers. Love you all......

Psalm 118:24 This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

coumadin level

John 14:1 Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.

I went for my coumadin level today and it was low again. She questioned me about why it could be so low and we could not come up with anything so she increased my dose. It was 1.7 which is what it was the last time. Needs to be in the 2's. A low number means that my blood is thicker than it needs to be which increases my chances for blood clots. Will be checked again next Monday. I was really tired today so took 2 small naps---one in the morning and one in the afternoon. I had a hard time driving this morning due to being so tired. I woke up why too early and couldn't go back to sleep so that may be why I am so tired plus the Arimidex makes me tired. Ugh....I hate that tired feeling. However, I was productive today and got lots of cleaning done so the little naps helped tremendously.

This afternoon I found out that my brother-in-law's PSA test was not good. After having his prostate surgery, the PSA result should be 0 and it was a 3. The doctor is recommending radiation treatment. He is young--in upper 40's. I am glad they found it since men usually don't have the test until they are in their 50's. Please pray along with me that the radiation will kill off all cancer cells. His name is Jim. My family has had a tough time with cancer....not sure why but we will trust God in all things and give Him thanks for what He will do!!! He is an awesome God!!! Thanks for all your love and prayers. Tomorrow is my heart test. Hope it all is well...so far it's been good!!!!

Job 2:10b Shall we accept good from God and not trouble?

survivor

Luke 17:19 Then he said to him, "Rise and go, your faith has made you well."

I had my lumpectomy a year ago on April 14 so technically I can say I have been cancer free for a year, for when they did the surgery, all of the cancer was taken out at that time!!!! I am truly a one year survivor. Praise God!!! I was at Walmart the other day and ran into one of my chemo nurses who saw me first and called me by name. Oh, yes....I go to the chemo clinic often enough that they know me by my name. lol. I used to be an onocologist nurse back in 1981 when I first got into nursing. I got to thinking how nice it must be for a chemo nurse like Brenda (who I saw at Walmart) to see one of your patients in the store and doing so well. When I was an onocologist nurse, I had so many patients die that it was quite sad. I am so thrilled to be a survivor!!! I hope to live many more years.

I have a busy medical week this coming week. I have a coumadin level check tomorrow on Monday, a heart test on Tuesday and then blood work to check out my cancer markers on Wednesday. Next Monday on April 26, I see the doctor and also receive herceptin again. I've gained weight so should try to lose it before seeing the doctor. lol. Yikes.....

I haven't taken down all my cards yet, doing it slowly and everytime I take a card down and reread it, floods of memories come rushing forth. You all have been sweet with your encouraging words and love....thanks. Have a great day.

Philippians 1:3 I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you , I always pray with joy.....

radiation area

I Chronicles 16:10-11 Glory in His Holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. Look to the Lord and His strength; seek his face always.

Not much going on but did notice the other day that the radiated area on my breast has changed color on the bottom portion to a slight purplish red color. Not sure why.....more noticeable. It usually doesn't show but hope the rest doesn't turn like that. Will keep my eye on it to see what happens. The rest of the area is a slight tannish color--like I got a tan (well, it was burned--lol and now tanned).

I haven't heard yet about my bone density test. I thought I would have heard something by now. Hope it's okay. Since it's been a year since my diagnosis, I decided it's time to start taking down the cards I had received throughout this journey of cancer. Everytime I got a card, I had taped it on a door or wall where I could see them and be encouraged. I received so many---especially from my chemo angel, AnnMarie---thanks my sweet angel!!! :) It is fun to reread them. I have taken down about 10 cards...more to go!!! Oh, my...I'm having a hot flash right now. I hate those hot flashes....getting so sweaty too!!!! Oh, well...that is a part of my life and I know many women have them. Thanks to all of you for loving me and caring for me.

Oh, my hair is growing and people comment all the time on how cute it is short. Are they crazy??? I have all these funny cowlicks so my hair sticks up and looks weird. I can't wait for it to grow lots more. There is one good thing about the short hair though....the wind doesn't mess it up much and it has been windy quite a bit. lol.

I Thessalonians 5:16 Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus!!!

Herceptin & coumadin level

Jeremiah 29:11 I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

On Monday I had my coumadin level. It was low--1.7 which means my blood wasn't thin enough. I haven't been eating the way I normally do due to caring for a sick father and then dealing with his death. Hopefully it will get better now that I can start eating my normal foods. It is amazing how getting off your diet can really mess up your system. I've also gained weight due to eating way too many sweets. I usually do not have desserts at my house every day or even often but when people sentdover food, they like to send desserts too. It was tasty, but now I really need to start exercising more and eating less.

I had my Herceptin also on Monday. Of all days, they got so behind on everything. I had to wait quite awhile at the coumadin clinic. I got skipped for the tech didn't see my name and they were short a person. Then at the cancer clinic, the pharmacist went to a meeting right before my order for herceptin orders were faxed over. I had to wait extra time and that particular day, I had my boys with me which is unusual plus I needed to go help my stepmom and her kids pack her up to move. Oh, well...those things happen.

I have worked hard this week helping pack up my stepmom's house. I am so exhausted but now I can start to rest.....lol...well, some rest anyway. My stepmom has left to go to Indiana for a few months and all her stuff is stored Now I need to clean my own home and reorganize it since I have some of her stuff to store and some of it to keep. I am also itching to work in my yard to plant flowers. I didn't get to do all I wanted to do last spring due to getting cancer and having chemo and now I had my dad's cancer to deal with it. But, hopefully I can find some time soon to work in the yard.

I cant' remember if I told you all that my husband has skin cancer. He had minor surgery for it and found out yesterday that they think they got it all. Yea !!! He was worried that they would have to go back in and take out more since he had this cancer for over a year. I hope we won't hear the word cancer from anyone else for a long time!!!! I am so tired of it. I think....surely, God, this is enough. I don't think I can take anymore but then I realize that God knows what I can take so I will just have to keep trusting in Him.

Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever for the Lord, teh Lord is the Rock eternal.

mammogram

Psalm 66:1 Shout with joy to God, all the earth!! Sing the glory of his name, make his praise glorious.

I received my mammorgram results the other day ---the test showed no signs of cancer!!! Praise the Lord!!! What a way to start out the month of April!!! I am praying that this month will be a good month. I don't think I like March!!! lol.

My dad's memorial service was yesterday. It was very nice. He was cremated and we received his ashes on Thursday night. My step and half brothers went to get them and when they walked in the house, my stepmom bursted out in tears but before long my stepbrother made a funny comment and she laughed. We made a big deal of putting my dad's ashes in the urn. You are probably wondering what the ashes came in. The ashes are in a bag and the bag was in a dark colored box which then was placed in a cardboard box. We took the bag out and put the whole bag with ashes into the urn which my stepmom bought at Hobby Lobby. My stepbrother said" Okay, Dad, here is your new home" Of course, I know that it's just his body in ashes for really he is in heaven with God now. We sealed the urn with roofing sealant (my stepbrother owns a roofing company). I don't know where she'll keep the urn especially as she is going home with her daughter for the summer. We now will be busy packing up the rest of the house and putting her stuff into storage until she decides where she wants to live. I am getting her backyard stuff today (she has tons of it) to store at my house. I am going to make a "memory" garden with her stuff.

At the service, I found out that my cousin, Randy's, wife had pancreatic cancer 15 years ago and she is one of the 10% who survived for it was caught very, very early. Her dentist could tell by her jaw bone that something was amiss for she was losing bone in her jaw. He strongly encouraged her to see her dr. and she did and they ran tests and found the cancer. Isn't that amazing. So, guess we better be sure to see our dentists faithfully. I already do for I have gum disease so I am encouraging the rest of you to do the same. And don't forget to get your mammograms done too. Praying that you all have a Happy Easter!!! Love you all!! Happy Easter to my mom, & sister, Marcy, KK, Deja, Stephanie, Melissa, Ann Marie, Kay, Lisa, and all the others who follow my blog.

I Corinthians 1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God!!!

Father

I Thessalonians 4:13 Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.

I am so sorry I've not written in several days. I've been very busy helping to care for my father during his last days. He passed away yesterday--March 30--after several hours of intense suffering. However, in his last days, he did some funny things that we'll have fond memories of. I wrote in my last blog of some of those things and then on Monday he wanted to watch the car race so we got him in a recliner chair and he wanted to wear his youngest son's baseball hat so he did. I wish I had taken a picture--it was quite cute. There will be a memorial service for him on Friday so keep us in your prayers as we go through that. My stepmom not only lost her husband but she loses her home too and possibly have to start a whole new life in a new town which mean she loses her friends and church too. We have lots of the her house already packed up but there will be more packing this weekend and her stuff will be stored in a storage place until she decides exactly where she'll be. I will be storing her outdoor stuff--she has tons of stuff--at my place. I will really miss my father and stepmom since I went to their house quite often since they lived in town and I live in the country--their house was my in-town home.

I had my first mammogram since being diagnosed with cancer. I don't know the results yet. But I had forgotten that they put clips in my breast where the tumor was taken out. The tech let me see the pictures showing my clips. I have 6 clips inside. I also had a bone density test. Hope everything comes out okay. I'll keep you posted. I am to have Herceptin next week. Thanks for your prayers and concern.

Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Anniversary

Isaiah 12:4 Give thanks to the Lord , call on His name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that His name is exalted.

One year ago on this day, I was diagnosed with breast cancer!!! I am now a one year survivor!!! Praise God! It's not a year I would like to repeat but God was with me every step of the way and He's an amazing God for I saw him work in so many ways in my life that I can say was quite amazing. It's a year that when looking back, I saw many people who care for me in ways I didn't know. People have come into my life that I didn't even know but have come to know whether through the mail, computer, or face to face. I am so thankful for each of you who have followed my journey. I didn't start this blog a year ago but you have certainly been there when I did and throughout the rest of my journey. I appreciate your love and concern. I appreciate my family more than ever too--they have all been my great supporters--thanks Mom and Khristi!!! Thanks to my husband too who has been so faithful and loving through all the hardships I've caused him. lol. He's not complained but has been there for me. Cancer is not a fun thing but I have discovered that it' not the worse thing either especially if you have a good prognosis. I will be grateful for each day God gives me. I can not say I am cured of breast cancer for it can come back at any time (or maybe never) but at the moment, I am cancer free!!! Praise God!!!!

Some of you might want to know how my dad is doing. Unfortunately, there are cancers that have a bad prognosis like his but God is with him too. Wednesday was not a good day for him. He was put on oxygen and was really tired. He had taken his medications wrong which messed him up. He now does not have his meds next to him--someone else gives it to him. The nurse puts the pills in the pill boxes so all we have to do is just give the pills at the appropriate time. He was starting to hallucinate but they have since given a pill to help decrease that problem. The nurse talked to us about the progress of decline and death which was hard for my stepmom and stepsister to hear. As I nurse, I already knew these steps and handled it okay with just a few tears. But yesterday, my dad had a completely different day--the meds kicked in I guess. By the afternoon, he was alert and very talkative. He went outside to inspect his son's new truck, ate well, and didn't take a nap---bet he was wore out at bedtime. Today the funeral home is to come and talk about his memorial service. I hope I can be there then but not sure when they are coming. Please keep praying...his day is coming but only God knows when that day is. Love you all.

Job 14:5 Man's days are determined ; you have decreed the number of his months and have set the limits he cannot exceed.

radiation sites. more cancer

Proverbs 14:30 A heart at peace gives life to the body....

Yesterday, I was visiting with a friend who had breast cancer 4 years ago. She was treated in Austin for her cancer so we had similar treatmemts but some differences. We happened to be comparing our ports---I saw her port site and her incision was vertical while mine is horizontal. I showed her my port and she was amazed how little it is. Guess hers was much bigger. Then we started to talk about our radiation sites. Her tumor was on the left side of her left breast so radiation is on the side of her breast and under her arms. Mine is right on my chest since my tumor was at the 11 o'clock site ( of the breast). Well, she had told me that she had gotten quite burned and there were days when they wouldn't even give her radiation due to her burns. I never had that problem. I was burned the worse on the last day. She showed me her site--it was awful. It's reddish purple and mottled and bumpy looking. I was so surprised. Mine is like a weird tan--slightly brownish and doesn't show too much when I'm wearing a shirt that shows some of it. It's more noticeable after I take a shower. I don't think I would wear a swimsuit--my scars and radiation site would really show up. But I am so grateful that's it not the reddish-purple color. I really feel sorry for her. She might have it taken care of surgically for the dr. says it could be done. All I can say, is "Thanks, God for helping me not get so burned".

Well, my family can not seem to get away from cancer these days. Now my husband was diagnosed with cancer but it's only skin cancer--squamous cell carcinoma which is not dangerous and will be easily taken care of it by removing it. Unfortunately, he's had it for awhile but the dr. doesn't seem to be concerned about it. He will have it removed next week. Had his biopsy last week.

My dad is starting to hallucinate by thinking people tell him things that they didn't say. It's caused by his pain meds. They had increased his dosage the other day. The goal is to make him comfortable from having less pain. He keeps thinking that he is sinking fast but I'm afraid he has more to suffer before it is all over. Please pray for him and the rest of the family. My stepbrother arrived yesterday so now there is one more to come for him to feel like he can let go. That son and grandson will arrive on Friday late night. Thanks again for all your prayers and love.

Psalm 145:3 Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise, his greatness no one can fathom.

Monday

II Corinthians 12:9 My grace is sufficient for you fo rmy power is made perfect in weakness.

I have a week where there is not a single medical thing that I have for myself---yea!!! I do have a mammogram and bone density test next week. It will be a year that I was diagnosed with cancer this Friday. Hard to believe it's been that long but I am glad that the hard stuff is behind me. I have been sleepy alot and I think it's the Arimidx medication that is causing that. I can get a good night's sleep and am still tired especially in the afternoon. In fact, I think I will take a nap after writing on this blog. I'm not a nap person but I've discovered that if I can squeeze in a little nap, it helps.

My dad has his up and down days. Yesterday he told me that he thought he was sinking fast and was hoping he could make it to Saturday when his youngest son and grandson arrive from Indiana. I asked him why he thought he was sinking and it was because he is so tired. His pain medication makes him tired and they had increased his dosage recently. I didn't tell him that he probably has to go through much more before he has sunk(vomiting, not eating....)!! He is ready to go and wants to go. I caught him crying the other day when I went to another town to pick up his daughter from Indiana. He said he didn't want to be causing so much trouble for everyone. I assured him that we don't see it as a burden for we love him. Today I heard that he was sitting up at a table to eat dinner which is something he hasn't done in quite a while. Sounds like he is having a good day. I will be seeing him this afternoon. I try to go everyday. Pray for him and the family . Thanks. Love you all.....

Jeremiah 31:13 I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.

Doctor's visit

Colossians 3:1-2 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.

Went to see the doctor on Monday and had herceptin that day too. The doctor says everything is looking good. I had cancer markers drawn and the level is 21.7 which is good for me. No signs of cancer. I am due for a mammogram this month (the 3oth). On the 16th is when I had a mammogram last year that showed the cancer. Hope this next one is good looking. I've done self-breast exams and haven't found anything. I do have cysts at times so I'm wondering how I will feel emotionally when I do feel something ---will have to hope it's just a cyst. No problems in receiving the Herceptin. The nurses at the chemo clinic mentioned that my hair is coming in thick. I'm sure they see many women with hair growing back. My hair has always been thick anyway. I can tell that it's growing but seems so slow. I have a horrible time with the hair around the crown of my head for it's shorter and I guess I have a cowlick there. Such a pain to fix. lol. I still don't like the stares I receive when i go to the stores or wherever but I just try to ignore them.

My dad has his ups and down days. He ate dinner well last night but was nauseated in the morning. He gets tired easily and company really tires him so my boys rearranged his bedroom so he could be in there with his recliner and it's more peaceful and quiet. My step-sister from Indiana comes in today but flies into Midland so I have to go pick her up. My youngest brother and his family are coming tomorrow. They are spending the night with us on Friday. Thanks for your prayers. Love you all. It has been fun to find out who is following this blog--hi Marcy!!!

I John 5:14-15 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us--whatever we ask--we know that we have what we asked of him.

Sunday

Isaiah 12:2 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.

I'm sorry I've not posted in a while. Just not alot to say plus I've been busy and tired. I just can't seem to get enough sleep at night. I wake up way too early and can't get back to sleep so I'm getting about 5 hours of sleep. Even the days I can sleep in, I wake up and lay in bed trying to go back to sleep. Oh, well.....sometimes I can grab a nap but other times I just keep plugging on. lol.

I've not worn my wig for a week now. I'm starting to get used to the stares. I hated the first time I went to the store for I felt so weird and was very self conscious. But I'm beginning to relax about it. I've had several nice comments from people I know. On Wednesday nights I work with children and I'm sure they wondered why my hair was so short and different color. Before dismissing the older kids to their class, I explained to them why my hair was the way it is--reminded them that I had cancer and had chemo therefore I lost my hair and now it's growing back. I laughed and told them that I know it looks funny and like a boy's haircut but it will grow. Well, it was cupcake day (we celebrate birthdays for that month with cupcakes once a month) and one of the older girls told me that I didn't look funny but cute. Ahhhh, how sweet.

Tomorrow I see the onocologist and receive Herceptin so will be a busy day. I went to get blood work on Friday and there was a different lab tech and she couldn't get blood on the first stick and boy, did she hurt me for she had to dig around. I missed Ann who usually draws my blood. Oh, well....I recovered. My dad was put on Hospice which has been a good thing for they are so helpful and they give him whatever he needs for free. They completely changed all his medications and he some problems with one medication so was feeling worse for a couple of days but now is some better. He says he is ready to go and wishes the rest of the kids would come see him. He isn't bedridden but doesn't have the energy to do much but at times will fix his own meal. He was the one always who cooked the meals, not my stepmom. lol. I've been there almost every day at some time or another. Just continue to pray for the family as I know there are going to be rough days ahead. Thanks for your care and prayers.

I Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him , because he cares for you.

Hair, wig

I Samuel 16:7 ...the Lord sees not as man sees, for man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks in the heart.

This weekend I decided it was time to "come out of the wig". Yep, I am going out into the world without my wig. Believe it or not, I did it for the first time going to a wedding. I knew there would be people there I've not seen in awhile and they may not have seen me in my newest wig plus I knew it's about time to go without my wig. Our hairdresser was encouraging me to go without. I don't care for the short hair and I don't really like people staring at me , but I did it anyway. I'm sure it's a shock to see me in such little hair. Just think, last year at this time, I had long. long hair. It will grow. I went to church too without the wig and today I went to get my coumadin level checked and didn't wear the wig. By the way, my coumadin level was 2.3 which is where the level needs to be. Hooray. that is two times in a row that I've had good levels so now I don't have to be rechecked for a month. I found out today that I'm not be drinking green tea. I've been doing that in the past and that could be one reason I've had poor results. I haven't been drinking it lately for I've been drinking hot chocolate instead. No one told me not to drink green tea or maybe I forgot. Each month they do some kind of educational talk and today was foods that contain high levels of Vit. K. Why can't I have Vit. K? Well, it will thicken my blood and we are trying to keep the blood thin so I won't have a blood clot. Back to the wig, I did wear my wig to my daughter's theatre for I've been going there every evening to fix Sarah's hair for the play she's in and these people really don't know me and by next week, I'll be done going there so why shock those kids. lol. I've not gone into a store yet....guess that is coming soon.

You may be wondering how my dad and the family is doing. He is doing okay--pain has lessen since his pain medication was increased. We had a good talk on Sat. about my relationship with him, heaven, and dying. He is a believer and knows he is going to heaven but being a typical man, wants to know how it all works--going to heaven that is. My stepmom was in a good mood that day and being strong (Prayers are working) and she and I were telling him how wonderful it's going to be, reminding him that we may not know exactly how it all works but it doesn't matter, it's better than being on earth and he'll be free from pain, etc. My stepmom even gave him pemission to go when he is ready. So proud of her. I think it is so important for a spouse or family member to say, it's okay to go. He's not ready yet but when the time comes, he'll know that he doesn't have to keep fighting to stay alive. He has lots of humor most times so we were trying to be jovial and telling him to throw down bits of gold from heaven to let us know he's there and doing okay. :) Anyway, it was a great talk. Glad I had that time with him. Was able to tell him thanks for being in my life these past 14 years. He teared up and said he wished he could have earlier in my life but didn't want to cause problems with kids trying to decide where to be loyal to which parent, etc. Didn't want to disturb our lives. I told him that it doesn't matter for I have enjoyed getting to be his daughter for the past 14 years when he moved to my town. He has been a good grandad for my kids too. Thanks for your prayers for me and for my family as we go through the days ahead.

Isaiah 33:2 O Lord, be gracious to us; we long for you. Be our strength every morning, our salvation in time of distress.

Sad news

Isaiah 4:10 So do not fear, for I am with you, do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

In a year's time, my family has had to deal with several people with cancer. We've not dealt with it much in the past except my aunt who died with breast cancer about 1 1/2 years ago. I feel that I've been pretty lucky to have healthy family members and especially healthy parents or so I thought. My dad had been having back pains for about 3 months and lots of tests have been done but nothing came up as to why he had the back pain. Finally his surgeon thought that maybe the many lipomas (fatty benign tumors) on his back was the cause; maybe they are on some nerves. I have lipomas too and once there was one sitting on a nerve in my leg which the doctor removed easily in his office. Well, my dad had surgery and had 25 lipoma's removed. These were just on one side of his back and some on his stomach area. This surgery was done 2 weeks ago. Some of wounds are draining and not healing properly and some are opening up. My stepmom took him in to the ER last Sunday to have an incision stitched up and the nurse noticed the coloring of his skin---yellow. He was juandiced and my stepmom hadn't noticed (they keep their house dark due to low lighting). The ER dr. thought maybe he had a blocked bile duct so a CT scan was scheduled and done on Tuesday. On Wed. they found out that it's not the bile duct nor gallbladder. He has pancreatic cancer!!! That is the worse (or one of the worse) cancers to have for there is no cure and usually people don't live long after being diagnosed. The doctor gave him 2-3 months to live. Of course, no one but God knows when our days are done. This has really hit me hard. They live here and I'm over there quite a bit. We have developed a great relationship over the past 14 years since they've moved here. He has been a good grandfather for my kids. And I get along with my stepmom; she is my friend. I will miss them so much. My dad is having a great attitude about this but worries about what is going to happen to his wife. My stepmom is very dependent on him so this will be very hard but today she seems to have gotten herself in control and is doing better. They are both Christians so will be drawing strength from Him. This will especially be hard for them financially for they have no life insurance, savings, or retirement. He has been working---even went to work last week even though he felt bad. It makes me appreciate the extra money my husband has set aside for life insurance and retirement. Anyway, please pray for us as we say our good-byes and go through this very difficult time. I am the only child here but the others will be coming to see him soon and one son will be here for a couple of weeks to help out. And a daughter will be coming in April but not sure for how long. I know that having cancer is hard enough but having it and dying is even harder. I am thankful that I survived my cancer---wish my dad could too.......oh, well....there is a plan for all of us. He has lived a good life and will have a great time meeting God in heaven. Oh, they celebrate their 42nd wedding anniversary next week. He asked me to buy her a card that he can give her. What an honor...it will be the last card for him to give her...the last anniversary...oh, how sad.

Isaiah 43:2-3 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

Wednesday

Psalm 92:4-5 For you make me glad by your deeds, O Lord; I sing for joy at the works of your hands. How great are your works, O Lord, how profound your thoughts.

You may be wondering how is the rash and the intestinal problems I had recently. Well, all is fine. Just a bit of rash left but really not noticeable but probably by me. lol. The intestinal problem is all gone except my husband now has it. Yikes.....

This is the month that my cancer journey started. So, some anniversaries coming up. I felt the lump sometime around March 10 or so and I had my mammogram on March 16, my son's birthday. Was diagnosed with cancer on March 26. So, lot of annivesary dates. I will be having a mammorgram this month--at the end. Hard to believe it's been nearly a year since I was told that I have cancer. It doesn't seem that it's been that long. I had a scare yesterday while I was showering. I thought I felt a lump in my breast. I quickly did a self breast exam but didn't find anything. Whew......maybe it was just a gland that I brushed against or nothing at all. Thanks to you all who have been following my blog. It's nice to know that people care. Thanks for your prayers most of all.

Note to KK---I'm thinking of you and family as you face your own sad anniversary of the loss of your precious son. God loves you all!!!

Jeremiah 31:13 I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.

sick

Psalm 41:3 The Lord will sustain him on his sickbed and restore him from his bed of illness.

Yesterday afternoon, I planted some bulbs in my garden for a friend who moved here but is in a rent house and not sure if they will stay there. After planting the bulbs, I went walking with my neighbor. I just don't have the stamina that I once had. I do okay walking in the morning when I just got out of bed, but doing it in the afternoon was very tough. I did it though and when I got home, I collapsed in a chair--I was so exhausted. I felt so stiff and my joints were hurting. Well, I felt warm so for some reason, I took my temp and was surprised to find that I had 100.5. No other symptoms....weird. I think my joints were hurting due to the fever. During the night, I had diarrhea----oh, that is why I had fever. Intestinal bug. Christopher had it last week so probably got it from him. I don't think he ran fever but each person is different. I am feeling some better this morning. Thanks for your prayers.......

Psalm 30:2 O Lord my God, I called to you for help and you healed me.

Doctor's visit

Psalm 105:4 Look to the Lord and His strength; seek his face always.

I saw my primary care doctor today. The reason I had to go to begin with was that when she did the pap smear in January, there wasn't enough substance to be tested. She said it might happen again because I am on Arimidex which is an anti-estrogen medication. This causes dryness. She said that the chemo may have caused the problems back in January. If it doesn't work this time, she said we'll try again in a year. I told her that there was an OB/gyn dr. who came to our breast cancer support group and said that if you have had a hysterectomy, that pap smears are not needed anymore. I asked my doctor what she thought and she disagreed and believes women still need to have a pap smear every year.

I asked her too about the rash under my breasts. She looked at it and thought maybe it was from the sweating that I get from hot flashes. Could be a fungus but since the hydrocortizone worked, she didn't think it was fungal. She suggested I use powder like baby powder. Kinda of weird since I've been sweating for about a year and never had this problem but who knows....

Today I decided to go back and copy my blog posts so I can keep a record of all I've written like in a notebook to remind me about my journey. All I got done was April which seems alot and there is so much more!!! There will come a time soon when this journey will be over and I won't be writing on this blog. So sad to know that you all won't be reading this but so happy that my cancer journey is ending. But not yet......thanks for your prayers.

I John 5:14-15 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us--whatever we ask --we know that we have what we asked of him.

Herceptin and rash

Philippians 4:19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the glorious riches of Christ Jesus

My rash is looking better--light pink. However, it has spread to my other breast (underneath) but just one side of it. It doesn't bother me. I will be seeing my primary care dr. on Wednesday so will ask her what she thinks. I have been so tired lately but could be just a lack of sleep.

I had Herceptin today. There was a new pharamicst and she labeled my bag of Herceptin to be infused within an hour and my nurse didn't notice that is was slower than previously given. Usually they infuse it within 30 minutes. She apologized several times but it was okay---I was so tired that I took a nap there. :)

I keep a record of what each procedure, doctor visit, treatment, etc cost and how much insurance paid and how much we pay. The other day I was recording these amounts for I was quite behind in recording. I decided to add how much everything cost for 2009. However, I forgot to add in the whole bill of the radiation center in our town but did add how much we should have paid (which was over $17.000). Anyway, the amount was so much more than I expected---over $152.000!!!! I am so happy that we have a pretty good insurance company. Everytime I have Herceptin, it costs about $16.000!!! It won't be long before I am covered 100%. I know my husband will be glad when all my treatments are over so we won't have to hand out so much money for medical bills. It makes me understand better why there are so many fundrasiers for people who have cancer especially when they are not insured. Very expensive!!! Thanks for your care, love, and prayers.

Matthew 6:25, 33 Don't worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

picture

I tried to get this on my other post but for some reason couldn't do it. This is how my hair looks now. Like a boy's. :) It will grow. Just need patience. sigh......

Rash

Psalm 28:7 The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him and I am helped.

This morning I was working in the kitchen and my bra was really bothering me which is unusual. I went to check it out and I had a very red nasty looking rash under my breast (the one that had cancer). It's on the breast and skin under it (I am big breasted). I have no idea what caused it or when it started but it was the first I noticed. I had even taken a shower earlier and didn't notice anything. And of course, it's a Sat. so really can't call the doctor. Larry, my husband, had some prescription hydrocortisone so I used it which took away the pain but it's still there. I am to see my primary care doctor on Wednesday so if it's still around, at least she can take a look at it. I have not used any new products and there is no rash under the other breast. Weird.

I worked outside today (beautiful weather) and didn't wear any hat or turban. Felt good to work without anything on my head. I do believe the hair on my legs grow faster than on my head. lol. I had so much outside work that should have been done back in the fall but I was taking chemo then and just didn't feel like doing it. Glad I have the energy to do it today but I am pretty tired now. Just pray that this rash is nothing and goes away soon. Thanks for your prayers.

Psalm 91:1-2 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty . I will say of the Lord, he is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.

hot flashes

Matthew 11: 28-29 Come me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, fior I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

My main problem is hot flashes. I seem to get them the most at night. I am taking medication to curb the hot flashes and it was working pretty well until I started the Arimidex and that is a big side effect. I seem to have 2-3 hot flashes a night and when I get them, boy am I hot. They will wake me up and that is probably why I'm so tired these days. Oh, well.....could be worse. At least the medicaton keeps me from having tons of hot flashes. It's really hard in the winter time for I am so cold-natured and like lots of blankets on me so when a hot flash occurs, I have to whip those blankets off which can be hard at times when I have several cats sleeping around me. lol. Poor cats!!! :)

I have blood work to be done tomorrow. One of the tests will be the cancer marker, I believe. Or maybe I get that one done when I see the doctor and I'm not seeing the dr. on Monday but just getting the Herceptin. I received my last card from my chemo angel and a sweet gift ( a pink heart that hangs up on the wall) that she made for the chemo angel organization told her that I am done with chemo. I will miss receiving her sweet and creative cards. I hope she gets a new person to send those cards to. She has been such a great encourager. Thanks AnnMarie!!! Thanks to you all for your prayers. A friend from high school has a sister just diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer. He set up a facebook page for her called "Prayers for Paula" so I've been sending her verses that helped me through my cancer journey. I also told her how so many people prayed for me and I truly believe that is why things weren't too bad for me. God does hear and He is a great and mighty God!!!

James 5:15-16 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.

Coumadin check

Psalm 138:8 The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O Lord, endures forever--do not abandon the works of your hands.

I went in today for a coumadin check and finally the results were normal. The last 2 checks the results were too high. I hope it stays normal from now on. :) I will be going back in 3 weeks instead of 2 weeks. I am feeling pretty good these days. Just a little stiffness at times but no side effects from the new medication that I can tell. Praise the Lord!!! I don't sleep well at night so am tired during the day. I have blood work this Friday then Hercepting infusion next Monday. Other than that, it's a slow week medical wise. Thanks again for all your prayers. I am considering becoming a chemo angel soon. I sure appreciated my chemo angels. AnnMarie, if you read this--thanks for the cards you continue to send. You are so sweet. I will write you soon. My hair is slowly growing. I am afraid that I will have to quit wearing my wig soon since it's so short and my hair is going to start showing. It's short and looks like a boys haircut. lol. When it's warmer it won't bother me so much. I will have someone take a picture of my "short hairstyle" so you can see. My son says my ears are too big to show it off....oh, well....that is the way God created me. :) Have a great day. Love you all.....

Psalm 139:13-14 For you created my inmost being, you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made: your works are wonderful., I know that full well.

Thankful

Colossians 3:15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as memebers of one body, you were called to peace. And be thankful.

I've been reflecting on what has happened the past year especially in my family. Three members of my family was diagnosed with cancer. Hardly anyone in the past had cancer then boom, suddenly, we were getting cancer. It all started with my aunt (my mother's sister) who had breast cancer then it came back and she died in Nov. 2008. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2009. My uncle (my mother's brother) was diagnosed with throat cancer , I believe in the early summer of 2009. My brother-in-law was daignosed with prostate cancer in Aug. 2009. Wow!!! However, we are done with our surgeries, chemo, and radiation and we are all doing well. (My brother-in-law only had surgery) Praise God!!! He is so good. It was a scary and hard year especially for my mother but we are all breathing a sigh of relief now. I know for myself that this past year was a year of having to really trust God with everything. He was there for me and still is with me. I had alot of support from my family and neighbors but not always the support from others that I would have liked but that's okay. God provided all I needed. There would be people who I never expected to be helpful and supportive.

Also, I've been thinking how you never know when someone is going to be snatched away from you unexpectantly or you yourself never know when you will die. A young woman I know didn't wake up on Sunday morning. She was only 30 years old with 2 children, 12 and 2 years old. No one had an idea that this could happen. They dont' know yet why this has happened but it did. So sad....but it just shows us that our life is in God's hands and it can be taken up to heaven anytime. So, I want to be thankful for the time I have here and thankful for my family and friends. Let's be thankful today and every day for the rest of our lives. Tell someone today that you are glad they are here and that you love them. :)

I am feeling pretty good these days. No new side effects. Just waiting and waiting for my hair to grow. I will feel so much better when I feel comfortable to not wear a wig or hat. It will happen someday. Thanks for your love and prayers.

I Thessalonians 1:2 We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers.

Cards

Psalm 9:10 Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.

Thanks for your prayers about my new medication. I've not had any side effects so far. I had that headache one day but not again so it may have had nothing to do with the medication. God is so good!!!! I was involved with an organization called 'Chemo Angel' where they send encouragment through cards and gifts while you are taking chemo. I had 2 wonderful chemo angels and one still sends me cards that she creatively makes. Well, the past few days I've been receiveing lots of birthday cards from different chemo angels all over the United States like from New York to California. I had no idea that was going to happen so it so amazing all the cards I am receiving. How sweet. One 'angel' called herself 'special assignment angel' so maybe there are angels out there just sending birthday cards. It is so nice to receive more encouragement anytime. Have a great week. I have no medical appointments this week--amazing!!!!

Hebrews 3:13 But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sins deceitfulness.