and my wound is dripping for England still. I had a more expensive dressing that Debbs put on for me on Monday which lasted till this morning. Went to see local nurse who checked wound and changed dressing which leaked before I got home. No sign of my priority referral to the Tissue Viability team made a week ago. My Bristol Breast Care nurse is going to chase this up today after clinic and Taunton are on standby as there is nothing they will do until that referral shows up from where ever it is hiding in Bristol. Didn't appreciate the impact this is all having on my well being till I went 2 days without leaks or dressing change. Have had to strip the bed this morning and 3rd top change and it is only 10.20am. Not a great start and as I didn't sleep well last night feel tearful today.
Still have had a better week then last week. Nige B took me shopping with his mother in law on Saturday. Sunday, Ali collected Holly and I and took us back to her house for a lovely Sunday Roast - Thank you it was lovely. Monday, despite feeling sick and nauseous went for a carvery at the Merry Monk courtesy of Anne - Thank you, I managed to keep down what I ate - Result. In the afternoon Claire P and baby Olivia came round. Nothing like a baby to put a smile on your face. Tuesday Hazel from work came and took me out to the Monkton Garden centre where we spent a fabulous time in the sun with a coffee - Thank you!!
Holly has been brilliant, and didn't she make me chuckle when she ran out the door this morning when I said my bedding had to be stripped. Hoping to have a lovely weekend with a trip to the Rock n Gem show (might even be inspired to be creative once the leaking has stopped) followed by a curry Saturday night.
I have had the Oncology appointment through and this is for the 15th Feb not the 8th as told last week. Hopefully the priority referral which appears to be in the snail post should get things moving tomorrow....
Wednesday, 2 February 2011
Thursday, 27 January 2011
17 days Post OP
Have had a few dramatics over the last week. The infection took hold before the antibiotics kicked in. My wound was leaking heavily and at one point a CSI agent would have looked at home in my bedroom. Huge thanks to my neigbours Debbie and Sara for running me down to the surgery twice, changing my bedding and then taking all my washing away to do. I put in a call to Bristol who were surprised that a wound site was leaking but said "First thing is not to Panic. You are on antibiotics minimising the risk of infection and just keep changing the dressings" Well that's all ok then! Thanks to Claire for doing some shopping, never ever have I bought such a big box of Maltesers for myself but they are doing the job. And not forgetting the Bebbs with Anne bringing food parcels and getting both Holly and myself round to theirs for dinner. And then there was Jill who took me out for an hour to Asda on Sunday. I went in one of the electric trolly's and Jill placed in the shopping.
The weekend I was a bit tearful which I think I can allow myself. I accepted the impact on my recovery this infection has had. Cancelled plans to visit family and attend a christening this weekend. Also the harsh reality of my vulnerability felt foremost in my thoughts following the death of one of my fellow bloggers, Daria, from Secondary Breast Cancer. This reminded me of the banter we had with my brothers David and Colin when they were faced in the same situation which did put a smile on my face for a bit and hoped Daria's family are drawing similar comfort.
Anne took me to the BRI for this weeks appointment. Dr Chaudry (one of the assistant surgeons) decided I needed more antibiotics, took a swab and also wanted Mr Raytor to see the wound. She also confirmed that an appointment has been made to see the Oncologist on the 8th February to discuss any further treatment plans e.g. Chemo based on the test results. Well he will be able to answer the majority of my questions not the surgeons.
Mr Raytor examined the wound and explained to me as they had to open up a 5 week old wound and the skin is not healing particularly well hence continued leaking. What they have done is placed a priority referral to the Tissue Viability Team. They will fit a Vacutex dressing on my wound. This will accelerate capillary action on the wound will draw the infection out, encourage the new cells forward to assist with the skin healing. Having read a bit on the Vacutex on the net it all makes a lot of sense but I'm sure he mentioned a tiny pump being used as I remember him saying "there will be a small regular vibrating noise" but can't locate relevant info. This is of course dependant on funding. Anne please feel free to correct me if I have got this wrong. If I don't hear anything by Friday I will chase this up. I successfully changed my dressing this morning but should have done it before it started leaking. I will get the hang of it soon!!
The weekend I was a bit tearful which I think I can allow myself. I accepted the impact on my recovery this infection has had. Cancelled plans to visit family and attend a christening this weekend. Also the harsh reality of my vulnerability felt foremost in my thoughts following the death of one of my fellow bloggers, Daria, from Secondary Breast Cancer. This reminded me of the banter we had with my brothers David and Colin when they were faced in the same situation which did put a smile on my face for a bit and hoped Daria's family are drawing similar comfort.
Anne took me to the BRI for this weeks appointment. Dr Chaudry (one of the assistant surgeons) decided I needed more antibiotics, took a swab and also wanted Mr Raytor to see the wound. She also confirmed that an appointment has been made to see the Oncologist on the 8th February to discuss any further treatment plans e.g. Chemo based on the test results. Well he will be able to answer the majority of my questions not the surgeons.
Mr Raytor examined the wound and explained to me as they had to open up a 5 week old wound and the skin is not healing particularly well hence continued leaking. What they have done is placed a priority referral to the Tissue Viability Team. They will fit a Vacutex dressing on my wound. This will accelerate capillary action on the wound will draw the infection out, encourage the new cells forward to assist with the skin healing. Having read a bit on the Vacutex on the net it all makes a lot of sense but I'm sure he mentioned a tiny pump being used as I remember him saying "there will be a small regular vibrating noise" but can't locate relevant info. This is of course dependant on funding. Anne please feel free to correct me if I have got this wrong. If I don't hear anything by Friday I will chase this up. I successfully changed my dressing this morning but should have done it before it started leaking. I will get the hang of it soon!!
Thursday, 20 January 2011
No Confirmed News however
early indications are that there were multicfocal sites removed last week same as discovered in December. All the same, Lobular breast cancer and some non cancerous cells. Unfortunately the full test results from last weeks op didn't make the MDT meeting yesterday so the Oncologist has not reviewed them.
My Consultant surgeon's opinion is that as all the breast tissue has been removed it will be unlikely that I will need Chemotherapy again. Also this would not have developed during the 12 week break I had from taking Tamoxifen in the summer. Due to the scar damage on the new breast, it is unlikely that Radiotherapy will be recommended. This is all backed up by the excellent news that the Lymph nodes were clear. I am so grateful I had my op and they found it early on.
Unfortunately I have also developed an infection on the area of the wound where they had to re cut into the same scar tissue from December's op. No on a 5 day course of antibiotics to clear that up. Both Drains now removed starting to feel less disabled but still need to rest.
Maybe next week I can crack open the champagne!!
My Consultant surgeon's opinion is that as all the breast tissue has been removed it will be unlikely that I will need Chemotherapy again. Also this would not have developed during the 12 week break I had from taking Tamoxifen in the summer. Due to the scar damage on the new breast, it is unlikely that Radiotherapy will be recommended. This is all backed up by the excellent news that the Lymph nodes were clear. I am so grateful I had my op and they found it early on.
Unfortunately I have also developed an infection on the area of the wound where they had to re cut into the same scar tissue from December's op. No on a 5 day course of antibiotics to clear that up. Both Drains now removed starting to feel less disabled but still need to rest.
Maybe next week I can crack open the champagne!!
Monday, 17 January 2011
6 days Post Op - First day home alone
and doing well. Holly brought up coffee and toasted teacakes for me before taking herself off to school. I feel nauseous in the morning so the food, coffee, painkillers and more rest helps me feel better. Another hour in bed before empting my drains as I still have 2 in and draining over 100ml between them. Strip wash before settling in front of T.V for most of the day. And this is how its going to be for most of this week.
Back to last week, op day, the 2 lady registrar's appeared to rush in whilst I was waking up in recovery to tell me my Sentinel Node Biopsy came back clear :-). I nearly lifted myself off the bed I was so ecstatic. Not sure who was more pleased, me or them. I remember saying "Does that mean no Chemo?" and realised that they cant' answer that at the moment.
I got back to the ward around 6pm with my sick bowl and managed to catch most of it this time but at least didn't splatter anyone else.
Wednesday, once my painkillers kicked in, I started to feel better and getting excited by the indication that I may be able to go home Thursday and when that time I arrived I carried on as I would normally, forgetting I had just had a major operation and this made me feel sick again, pushed my temperature and blood pressure up. Rachel knew as soon as she saw me and said "Still want to go the the pub then ? I guess not!"
James and Lynne are kindly taking to my post- op appointment this Wednesday. This is when it will be reported back to me the full test results of the tumour they found in December and hopefully my Treatment plan. A good start is knowing Cruella's sister didn't leave the breast. I'm feeling really lucky :-)
Back to last week, op day, the 2 lady registrar's appeared to rush in whilst I was waking up in recovery to tell me my Sentinel Node Biopsy came back clear :-). I nearly lifted myself off the bed I was so ecstatic. Not sure who was more pleased, me or them. I remember saying "Does that mean no Chemo?" and realised that they cant' answer that at the moment.
I got back to the ward around 6pm with my sick bowl and managed to catch most of it this time but at least didn't splatter anyone else.
Wednesday, once my painkillers kicked in, I started to feel better and getting excited by the indication that I may be able to go home Thursday and when that time I arrived I carried on as I would normally, forgetting I had just had a major operation and this made me feel sick again, pushed my temperature and blood pressure up. Rachel knew as soon as she saw me and said "Still want to go the the pub then ? I guess not!"
James and Lynne are kindly taking to my post- op appointment this Wednesday. This is when it will be reported back to me the full test results of the tumour they found in December and hopefully my Treatment plan. A good start is knowing Cruella's sister didn't leave the breast. I'm feeling really lucky :-)
Thursday, 13 January 2011
Away Home
Sue rang me this morning, rather eagerly telling me she could come home today, aim to get there for 12 o’clock and we’ll stop at a pub on the way home. Hmmmmm.
As it turned out, Sue had got a little too excited and enthusiastic sorting her stuff out and packing, she got a bit hot and bothered, so we stayed a while and she had some food and tablets and left at around 2pm.
So, we didn’t stop at the pub or go via the Thatchers Brewery!! And she’s in bed resting hoping to get some good sleep tonight.
Also, had we left the hospital when Lil Miss Eager wanted, she’d have missed the beautiful flower arrangement that had been sent by her work colleagues.
Rachel xx
As it turned out, Sue had got a little too excited and enthusiastic sorting her stuff out and packing, she got a bit hot and bothered, so we stayed a while and she had some food and tablets and left at around 2pm.
So, we didn’t stop at the pub or go via the Thatchers Brewery!! And she’s in bed resting hoping to get some good sleep tonight.
Also, had we left the hospital when Lil Miss Eager wanted, she’d have missed the beautiful flower arrangement that had been sent by her work colleagues.
Rachel xx
Tuesday, 11 January 2011
Operation Day
Have spoken to the Staff Nurse and Sue is back on the ward, drips and drains attached.
They’re giving her sips of water to see how it goes, then she’ll have some food later on. Sick bowl is on standby!!
That’s all for now, will let you know more when we know more!!
Rachel xx
They’re giving her sips of water to see how it goes, then she’ll have some food later on. Sick bowl is on standby!!
That’s all for now, will let you know more when we know more!!
Rachel xx
Monday, 10 January 2011
Wasn't that bad after all
Day started good. Got everything ready for tea tonight, wrote down the return train times from Bristol, Anne took me to the station got ticket off I went.
Then on train I realised left notebook and appt letter at home with return train times. Got off at wrong bus stop in Bristol but still arrive at the BRI at 11am to find out appointment not till 1:30pm!!
After a browse and a glass of wine in the pub turned up at correct time and got seen after waiting for 45 minutes. Then it was just a an injection (no canular), massage injection site for 15 minutes then lie down for some xray's. Wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.
Now I really do have to pack my bag and yes will check letter for tomorrow :-)
Then on train I realised left notebook and appt letter at home with return train times. Got off at wrong bus stop in Bristol but still arrive at the BRI at 11am to find out appointment not till 1:30pm!!
After a browse and a glass of wine in the pub turned up at correct time and got seen after waiting for 45 minutes. Then it was just a an injection (no canular), massage injection site for 15 minutes then lie down for some xray's. Wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.
Now I really do have to pack my bag and yes will check letter for tomorrow :-)
Sunday, 9 January 2011
Ready for a day of needles and scans
which is all in aid of new technology for Sentinel Node Location / Imaging in 2 parts.
Part 1 Injection and first imaging session lasting approximately 1 hour
Part 2 If necessary (criteria unknown to me ) Imaging about 3 or 4 hours later lasting approximately 1 hour.
One of the injections will be of a slightly radioactive substance. At some point I will be injected with dye.
This is to assist my surgeon on Tuesday, identifying the Primary lymph node gate (my terminology) and remove gates 1 & 2 before continuing with my mastectomy and reconstruction. The removed sample will be immediately tested in a machine called OSNA (http://www.sysmex-lifescience.com/OSNA-assay-for-lymph-nodes-175-2.html) to see if cancer has travelled out of the breast in the Lymph system. With the results, a decision can be made during the operation as to whether to continue with a clearance or not as opposed to doing one straight away as in my last mastectomy in Oct 2009. Saving my lymph nodes reduces the risk of Lymphedema. I will be pleasantly surprised if this has stayed inside the breast this time.
Going to Bristol on the train tomorrow but not sure what time I'm getting back. My friend and work colleague Alice, is Holly sitting tomorrow night so Holly can stay at home and Rachel will land Tuesday afternoon for the week to take over.
Book ready, iPod charged. Suppose I could pack my bag but not feeling inspired to do much.
Part 1 Injection and first imaging session lasting approximately 1 hour
Part 2 If necessary (criteria unknown to me ) Imaging about 3 or 4 hours later lasting approximately 1 hour.
One of the injections will be of a slightly radioactive substance. At some point I will be injected with dye.
This is to assist my surgeon on Tuesday, identifying the Primary lymph node gate (my terminology) and remove gates 1 & 2 before continuing with my mastectomy and reconstruction. The removed sample will be immediately tested in a machine called OSNA (http://www.sysmex-lifescience.com/OSNA-assay-for-lymph-nodes-175-2.html) to see if cancer has travelled out of the breast in the Lymph system. With the results, a decision can be made during the operation as to whether to continue with a clearance or not as opposed to doing one straight away as in my last mastectomy in Oct 2009. Saving my lymph nodes reduces the risk of Lymphedema. I will be pleasantly surprised if this has stayed inside the breast this time.
Going to Bristol on the train tomorrow but not sure what time I'm getting back. My friend and work colleague Alice, is Holly sitting tomorrow night so Holly can stay at home and Rachel will land Tuesday afternoon for the week to take over.
Book ready, iPod charged. Suppose I could pack my bag but not feeling inspired to do much.
Monday, 3 January 2011
Happy New Year and a funny thought for the day
Thanks everyone for your kind comments via blog, facebook, phone email and cards. They all help. Jo & Jo your card most certainly made me laugh. I did mention to Holly about going to find a Karaoke bar and she shook her head (in terror I think). I reminded her when we went to Tenerife February 2005 with Sharon Laura and Matthew when we lived in Brackley and one evening we did end up in a Karaoke bar. My turn arrived and Robbie Williams' Angels was my choice. Whilst I was singing my heart out the DJ went over to Sharon and asked her if her mate had a sense of humour and next thing he came out with tissue paper stuffed in his ears and waving a lighter.
New Years eve we went to Worcester to Kerri's house and I was telling them about your card the above story and as we were about to embark on an evening of SingStar and we all burst into the song I will survive by Gloria Gayner. Thanks Guys xx
New Years eve we went to Worcester to Kerri's house and I was telling them about your card the above story and as we were about to embark on an evening of SingStar and we all burst into the song I will survive by Gloria Gayner. Thanks Guys xx
Thursday, 30 December 2010
A good positive thought for the day.
Lying in bed this morning thought of another positive to all this. At least I won't have to have any more mammograms!
I am trying to sort out practical arrangements. When I get out, my lovely neighbours Sarah and Debb's are going to take turns to help wash me. I can empty the drains and record the volume.
What is proving difficult is care for Holly when I'm in hospital as Holly doesn't seem to want to discuss her options. Have now told her she has till Friday to make a decision or I'll make it for her.
The other issue I have is that on Monday 10th I have to have injections and scans (I'll explain in another post) for most of the day before my op on Tuesday 11th where I have to be on the ward for 7:30am. Now it makes sense to me due to the distance I live from the hospital (1 hours plus drive ) and the time I have to be there the next day, to have a bed from Monday night but have been told this morning that I don't qualify and to look at other alternatives.
I really don't fancy going up to Bristol 2 days on the trot and the 2nd trip being silly o'clock in the morning but currently that's looking like my plan B.
I am trying to sort out practical arrangements. When I get out, my lovely neighbours Sarah and Debb's are going to take turns to help wash me. I can empty the drains and record the volume.
What is proving difficult is care for Holly when I'm in hospital as Holly doesn't seem to want to discuss her options. Have now told her she has till Friday to make a decision or I'll make it for her.
The other issue I have is that on Monday 10th I have to have injections and scans (I'll explain in another post) for most of the day before my op on Tuesday 11th where I have to be on the ward for 7:30am. Now it makes sense to me due to the distance I live from the hospital (1 hours plus drive ) and the time I have to be there the next day, to have a bed from Monday night but have been told this morning that I don't qualify and to look at other alternatives.
I really don't fancy going up to Bristol 2 days on the trot and the 2nd trip being silly o'clock in the morning but currently that's looking like my plan B.
Friday, 24 December 2010
Remembering Absent Friends and Family
A spray of roses just for you, Sprinkled with teardrops instead of dew, And in the middle a Forget-me-not, to let you know we have not Forgot ♥ xxxxx ♥ xxxxx ♥
A mulled cider in the Plough with my sister Rachel yesterday and we toasted Col Dave Nige Keith and Mum. A white feather descended on the table from nowhere. A year now passed since Colin left us with the Angels.
Feeling more positive about next year. Rachel pointed out that she copes with this by thinking my recently found tumour (Must get this christened) is only 13mm and Cruella was 29mm so has been found earlier!!! I cope as I know exactly what to expect :-(
My niece wrote the following poem in memory of Colin
In memory, of an amazing man.
by Laura Tai Davies on Friday, 26 November 2010 at 22:07
A smile and a grin, you never had a frown
Your love for us all was something so special
That you can make me smile with just simple words
The cleverest idiot, in my universe.
Many people loved and knew you,
Nothing like how close you were to my heart
I just wish that I could turn back the time
And say the words that were you in your life.
Always look on the bright side of life
Was the thing that you lived by
You never faltered and never failed
You somehow always prevailed.
Your infectious laughter and the cheeky grin
The bushy moustache, hanging on your lips
The crap jokes you always did or told
The grin never faltering, even when you went bald.
I loved you from the beginning
Right till the very end,
You were my light and shining star
I now know you’re never afar.
I just wish I had the chance to say
‘I love you’ once more.
The fact you kept on laughing till the end
It made me thankful that you were Gods send.
I miss you and I love you
Never ever forget that.
Give everyone a hug from me,
And send a kiss to David please.
To someone who changed my life for the better~
I miss you Colin
Merry Christmas and Happy new year to our friends and family where ever you all are xxx
by Laura Tai Davies on Friday, 26 November 2010 at 22:07
A smile and a grin, you never had a frown
Your love for us all was something so special
That you can make me smile with just simple words
The cleverest idiot, in my universe.
Many people loved and knew you,
Nothing like how close you were to my heart
I just wish that I could turn back the time
And say the words that were you in your life.
Always look on the bright side of life
Was the thing that you lived by
You never faltered and never failed
You somehow always prevailed.
Your infectious laughter and the cheeky grin
The bushy moustache, hanging on your lips
The crap jokes you always did or told
The grin never faltering, even when you went bald.
I loved you from the beginning
Right till the very end,
You were my light and shining star
I now know you’re never afar.
I just wish I had the chance to say
‘I love you’ once more.
The fact you kept on laughing till the end
It made me thankful that you were Gods send.
I miss you and I love you
Never ever forget that.
Give everyone a hug from me,
And send a kiss to David please.
To someone who changed my life for the better~
I miss you Colin
Merry Christmas and Happy new year to our friends and family where ever you all are xxx
Sunday, 19 December 2010
Bouncing back
Despite my brother Kevin and his fiance Amanda being here for the weekend, feelings of anticipation won't go away. I know what to expect, so why feel anxious ? I know why. This is horrible.
I went through a box that I keep all the cards and letters I received last year and this made me smile for a bit at least.
May you always have an angel by your side
Watching out for you in all the things you do
Reminding you to keep believing in brighter days
Finding ways for your wishes and dreams to take you to beautiful places
Giving you hope that is as certain as the Sun
Giving you the strength of serenity as your guide
May you always have love and comfort and courage
Back to work tomorrow that should keep my mind occupied.
xxx
I went through a box that I keep all the cards and letters I received last year and this made me smile for a bit at least.
May you always have an angel by your side
Watching out for you in all the things you do
Reminding you to keep believing in brighter days
Finding ways for your wishes and dreams to take you to beautiful places
Giving you hope that is as certain as the Sun
Giving you the strength of serenity as your guide
May you always have love and comfort and courage
Back to work tomorrow that should keep my mind occupied.
xxx
Thursday, 16 December 2010
What a bummer
Went for my post op assessment yesterday in Bristol. Looking forward to my having my dressings removed so I can have a shower and wash my own hair. Holly soaked me when she did it for me.
After a chat with one of the ladies I was in hospital with last week, got called in after a 10 minute wait and along with my surgeon and breast care nurse a 3rd person was in as well whom I just thought was a medical student. Mr Rater started talking about the processes the breast tissue goes through once it's removed and I nodded yes I'd expect it to be tested, then he hit with "we have found cancer in the tissue"
In summary the Histology report for the breast tissues shows Multifocal Lobular Cancer despite being on Tamoxifen with the largest focus being 13mm and identified as G2 Lobular Breast Cancer. There are other lumps that has been confirmed as Lobular Carcinoma in situ (LCIS ) which increase the risk of developing into breast cancer later on. Unsure yet but it is likely to be a new Primary cancer rather then a recurrance of Cruella.
Treatment Plan - Mastectomy with an immediate reconstruction booked for the 11 January 2011. They have discussed the technical aspects because this breast now has wounds and due the the amazing way they have healed he is confident with the options he has that he can still do another brilliant job.
I have said I do not want to go through Chemo again and I got "We will cross that bridge when we get to it" Well they are going to have to really sell the benefits of that one to me!
Holly took it on the chin not sure it's sunk in yet.
I'm ok had a good cry and back to making the practical arrangements required for me to spend a week in hospital.
Have asked them to supply me with a sick bowl as I come out of recovery this time though :-)
After a chat with one of the ladies I was in hospital with last week, got called in after a 10 minute wait and along with my surgeon and breast care nurse a 3rd person was in as well whom I just thought was a medical student. Mr Rater started talking about the processes the breast tissue goes through once it's removed and I nodded yes I'd expect it to be tested, then he hit with "we have found cancer in the tissue"
In summary the Histology report for the breast tissues shows Multifocal Lobular Cancer despite being on Tamoxifen with the largest focus being 13mm and identified as G2 Lobular Breast Cancer. There are other lumps that has been confirmed as Lobular Carcinoma in situ (LCIS ) which increase the risk of developing into breast cancer later on. Unsure yet but it is likely to be a new Primary cancer rather then a recurrance of Cruella.
Treatment Plan - Mastectomy with an immediate reconstruction booked for the 11 January 2011. They have discussed the technical aspects because this breast now has wounds and due the the amazing way they have healed he is confident with the options he has that he can still do another brilliant job.
I have said I do not want to go through Chemo again and I got "We will cross that bridge when we get to it" Well they are going to have to really sell the benefits of that one to me!
Holly took it on the chin not sure it's sunk in yet.
I'm ok had a good cry and back to making the practical arrangements required for me to spend a week in hospital.
Have asked them to supply me with a sick bowl as I come out of recovery this time though :-)
Wednesday, 15 December 2010
Well that's that bit over with
and I am over the trauma which I will summarise for you .
Last on list so didn't get taken down till 4:30pm. I was allowed a glass of water around 10:30am. Once in the theatre couldn't get a vein to put in the cannula. 3 attempts on my my left hand after reminding them not to use my right hand due to the risk of Lymphodema 4th attempt on my foot and it was looking like my op may not be happening then after some beating, the 5th attempt in my leg and I'm asleep.
I woke up in recovery feeling very thirsty and sipped chilled water whilst coming round and got took back up to the ward around 9pm. Sipped a coffee and nibbled 2 biscuits. When I started to feel sick I realised I hadn't been give the buzzer control and I was attached to the bed by my drain. A confused nurse came in as with 2 of us calling and a 3rd buzzing wasn't sure who to help first but it was all for me and I confirmed I felt sick. By the time the nurse returned the projectile vomiting had started missing the bowl. She and I was covered and the bed. The lady opposite me ducked as it flew across the room stopping just short of her bed. During the episode I lost my control of my bladder so all in all I was in a very unpleasant mess which as my nurse was on her own was left in for far too long. After cleaning the floor my nurse got a bowl of hot water and cloths so I could wash myself down. A second nurse appeared telling me they were going to give me some anti sickness drugs and where was my cannular? All I could remember was that it was in my foot. Whoops nothing there. You are not sticking another one in can I just have tablets and she explained that she would be able to inject me and it would just take a bit longer to get to work. Eventually I was clean and dry but not too warm in a pretty pink gown. so thankful I took my dressing gown. When I got off the bed ooh look canular in my leg !!
Come morning after another very small sickness episode, I was told they would need to see if my breakfast would stay down and my surgeon agreed I could go home with the drain, I had to manage going home with 2 last year and by 10:30 I got thumbs up and put in motion my plan for coming home and thanks to Alex I was home for 2pm.
1 week later, wound healing well with drain removed Saturday. I am going back to Bristol to have my dressing removed today :-)
Last on list so didn't get taken down till 4:30pm. I was allowed a glass of water around 10:30am. Once in the theatre couldn't get a vein to put in the cannula. 3 attempts on my my left hand after reminding them not to use my right hand due to the risk of Lymphodema 4th attempt on my foot and it was looking like my op may not be happening then after some beating, the 5th attempt in my leg and I'm asleep.
I woke up in recovery feeling very thirsty and sipped chilled water whilst coming round and got took back up to the ward around 9pm. Sipped a coffee and nibbled 2 biscuits. When I started to feel sick I realised I hadn't been give the buzzer control and I was attached to the bed by my drain. A confused nurse came in as with 2 of us calling and a 3rd buzzing wasn't sure who to help first but it was all for me and I confirmed I felt sick. By the time the nurse returned the projectile vomiting had started missing the bowl. She and I was covered and the bed. The lady opposite me ducked as it flew across the room stopping just short of her bed. During the episode I lost my control of my bladder so all in all I was in a very unpleasant mess which as my nurse was on her own was left in for far too long. After cleaning the floor my nurse got a bowl of hot water and cloths so I could wash myself down. A second nurse appeared telling me they were going to give me some anti sickness drugs and where was my cannular? All I could remember was that it was in my foot. Whoops nothing there. You are not sticking another one in can I just have tablets and she explained that she would be able to inject me and it would just take a bit longer to get to work. Eventually I was clean and dry but not too warm in a pretty pink gown. so thankful I took my dressing gown. When I got off the bed ooh look canular in my leg !!
Come morning after another very small sickness episode, I was told they would need to see if my breakfast would stay down and my surgeon agreed I could go home with the drain, I had to manage going home with 2 last year and by 10:30 I got thumbs up and put in motion my plan for coming home and thanks to Alex I was home for 2pm.
1 week later, wound healing well with drain removed Saturday. I am going back to Bristol to have my dressing removed today :-)
Monday, 6 December 2010
Boob Op pt 2
Well, Sue was feeling a bit fractious this morning, but got to the hospital and booked in all ok.
She texted me to let me know she was last on the list, so she wouldn’t be in surgery till late afternoon. So very happy we had such a lovely dinner last night courtesy of The Bebbs.
Texts received throughout the day were full of the usual really interesting comments, such as, just been drawn on, bored, hungry, bored, thirsty, bored, ooh and the anaesthetist is moving to Taunton next year!
Anyway, she’s out of surgery and back on the ward now, hopefully, all things being well, should be home some time tomorrow.
Rachel xx
She texted me to let me know she was last on the list, so she wouldn’t be in surgery till late afternoon. So very happy we had such a lovely dinner last night courtesy of The Bebbs.
Texts received throughout the day were full of the usual really interesting comments, such as, just been drawn on, bored, hungry, bored, thirsty, bored, ooh and the anaesthetist is moving to Taunton next year!
Anyway, she’s out of surgery and back on the ward now, hopefully, all things being well, should be home some time tomorrow.
Rachel xx
Sunday, 5 December 2010
Twas the night before my 2nd op
and a fabulous last supper was had curtesy of the Bebbingtons. Thank you guys !!
Plan A to get to the hospital was no longer an option this evening but before I could contact Plan B (Alex) Nige Bebbington , who was never on my plan list, told me he is taking me on the way to Street. Ok a little detour but all organised now and Alex gets a lie in.
Feeling a tad nervous but the roast pork dinner has made me feel a bit sleepy. Got an early start tomorrow and Rach will update blog in the afternoon hopefully...
Night all
xx
Plan A to get to the hospital was no longer an option this evening but before I could contact Plan B (Alex) Nige Bebbington , who was never on my plan list, told me he is taking me on the way to Street. Ok a little detour but all organised now and Alex gets a lie in.
Feeling a tad nervous but the roast pork dinner has made me feel a bit sleepy. Got an early start tomorrow and Rach will update blog in the afternoon hopefully...
Night all
xx
Wednesday, 13 October 2010
Operation Date Postponed
I came home yesterday to find yet another letter from the Hospital. I opened it with excitement thinking this was my pre op assessment appointment come through. Sadly it was a letter confirming that my operation date has been postponed to the 6th December citing other emergencies as a possible reason.
Gutted as I am, I know that the reason for this is probably a lady who is at the stage I was at, this time last year. However on the plus side, I have 8 weeks to loose at least half a stone, which I know a can achieve if I put my mind to it. It's just the practical arrangements I have to re arrange now and I think I should sort out plan B.
Gutted as I am, I know that the reason for this is probably a lady who is at the stage I was at, this time last year. However on the plus side, I have 8 weeks to loose at least half a stone, which I know a can achieve if I put my mind to it. It's just the practical arrangements I have to re arrange now and I think I should sort out plan B.
Sunday, 10 October 2010
2nd Operation date confirmed
I have been on Tamoxifen for just over a week and and so far so good. Getting more hot flushes. So far, knees are holding up as well. All is good.
Opened up my post today. Holly puts it in various places around the house and doesn't tell me. I found a letter confirming my date for my next operation as Monday 8th November. This is to reduce the size of my other breast to match the one that was reconstructed last year.
Just got to make all the practical arrangements now.
Wednesday, 29 September 2010
Test results confirmed
I'm defininatly pre menopausal so it's back on Tamoxifen.
I have not taken them since 12th July and I feel really great. I have had a lovely summer. I know, it wouldn't take much compared to last year! I have had 2 lovely holidays and apart from feeling tired occasionally, due to waking up at 2am on a regular basis, I have no complaints. I feel more in control then I have done for a long time.
I have not taken them since 12th July and I feel really great. I have had a lovely summer. I know, it wouldn't take much compared to last year! I have had 2 lovely holidays and apart from feeling tired occasionally, due to waking up at 2am on a regular basis, I have no complaints. I feel more in control then I have done for a long time.
My only concern about going back on Tamoxifen is the pain in my knees. Currently this is nowhere near as bad as it was and it's only recently improved. I swim every week and I'm going to start some cycling. I know I also need to start losing weight.
I spoke to a Breast Care nurse from Bristol today. I am on the 18 week wait list there for my 2nd op and wanted to find out if I should be on them when I have my operation. The nurse confirmed that I will be asked to come off them and as a general rule it is usually 2 weeks before the operation date.
I asked her if she had any useful hint's to minimise the pain that could return to my knees and seemed surprised that I am putting this down to Tamoxifen as this is a more severe side effect of Arimidex. I know that there are ladies suffering joint pain with Tamoxifen. However she asked me what chemotherapy I had and she advised that the side effects of Docetaxel - joint and limb pain, could take a while to get out of my system and that could have been the cause of my pain. However I will be grateful for any useful suggestions (chopping off legs not an option!)
So I'm really cheered up by that thought. To mentally prepare myself for the onslaught of side effects, I know I am a much healthier person then I was a year ago - Chemo - oh so last year, no major operations, no radiotherapy to contend with and no more family funerals! (I insist if anyone is listening!) There will be minimal side effects !!
Watch this space....
Wednesday, 30 June 2010
Test results through
The bad news is the blood test result was inconclusive (so I'm not definitely post menopausal)
The good news is I can stop taking Tamoxifen for 6 weeks so I can be retested.
The better news is , stopping these drugs from next Tuesday makes my 6th week when I get back from a relaxing holiday in Rhodes.
I am cheered up by this news it has to be said :-)
The good news is I can stop taking Tamoxifen for 6 weeks so I can be retested.
The better news is , stopping these drugs from next Tuesday makes my 6th week when I get back from a relaxing holiday in Rhodes.
I am cheered up by this news it has to be said :-)
Thursday, 17 June 2010
Oncology Appt 15th June 2010
I was geared up with my own reasons for coming off Tamoxifen when I went for my appointment. It was like visiting old friends when I arrived and felt warm and welcome.
The Breast care nurse was waiting for me when I got called in so I was already talking to her about what I was doing to minimise the side effects that I am experiencing from taking Tamoxifen. When the Onc Consultant came in even he was impressed with what I am doing. When I get a night sweat, I take a Dioralyte the next day (replenishes lost salts and water usually prescribed for Diarrhoea) and so far so good - I have not had a nocturnal leg cramp since !!
He was going to suggest that due to the type of tumour (hormone positive) and my age (wise) I change hormone prohibitors to Raloxifene (I think - it began with an R). They took bloods to be absolutely certain I am post menopausal as most certainly the Chemo last year (that sounds good) would have brought all that on. There will be a cheer when I get that result :-)
He was pleased with my how my new breast has recovered from radiotherapy despite there being a bit of fluid. He also said I would only be called in for annual Mammograms and doesn't feel it necessary for any other scans to take place unless I have symptoms that I am concerned about. The risk of recurrence is there but until it materialises, there isn't much they can do and feel that I shouldn't go through the process of scans and worrying about the results. I'm still not sure about this bit but then I do need to focus on getting fitter and reducing my BMI. Without sounding arrogant, the impact Chemo had on Cruella, which was 2.9 cm, any particles from her that were so minute not to be to picked up by the scans I had last year, would be non existent.
So I have come away feeling still nervous about what the future holds with reference to cancer although positive over the next steps.
The Breast care nurse was waiting for me when I got called in so I was already talking to her about what I was doing to minimise the side effects that I am experiencing from taking Tamoxifen. When the Onc Consultant came in even he was impressed with what I am doing. When I get a night sweat, I take a Dioralyte the next day (replenishes lost salts and water usually prescribed for Diarrhoea) and so far so good - I have not had a nocturnal leg cramp since !!
He was going to suggest that due to the type of tumour (hormone positive) and my age (wise) I change hormone prohibitors to Raloxifene (I think - it began with an R). They took bloods to be absolutely certain I am post menopausal as most certainly the Chemo last year (that sounds good) would have brought all that on. There will be a cheer when I get that result :-)
He was pleased with my how my new breast has recovered from radiotherapy despite there being a bit of fluid. He also said I would only be called in for annual Mammograms and doesn't feel it necessary for any other scans to take place unless I have symptoms that I am concerned about. The risk of recurrence is there but until it materialises, there isn't much they can do and feel that I shouldn't go through the process of scans and worrying about the results. I'm still not sure about this bit but then I do need to focus on getting fitter and reducing my BMI. Without sounding arrogant, the impact Chemo had on Cruella, which was 2.9 cm, any particles from her that were so minute not to be to picked up by the scans I had last year, would be non existent.
So I have come away feeling still nervous about what the future holds with reference to cancer although positive over the next steps.
Thursday, 27 May 2010
Another first and Positive Thinking Rocks !
I swam 30 lengths of our local swimming pool in an hour the other week - (25 lengths is half a mile). Going to try and go weekly. Another first for me was mowing the lawn and doing some weeding the other night. I still ache but pleased with my efforts.
Last week a leaflet drop man had fallen over in our road after being chased by a neighbours dog. I didn't see the incident, I just thought how lovely the community spirit was with the neighbour making this chap a cup of tea. I commented on this to them and the fact that should he need physiotherapy to get a referral now as I currently have to wait over 4 weeks to have my hand seen. Any way to cut a long story short, it transpired that this chap stopped working for the local NHS after his mother became ill with Cancer. He couldn't cope with the environment he was working in. I gave the more social summary of my experience over the last 2 years whilst working for the NHS - loosing 2 brothers to cancer and my own cancer journey.
His response of "You must be depressed then" really had me questioning whether my friends and family considered me depressed and if not should I be. I replied I'd had a few moments where I allowed myself to feel sorry for myself, but on the whole I just got on with it and deal with what I had been dealt with.
Yes I'm angry at what myself and family are going through but disagree with this chap as I am not depressed. And thanks to people I have spoken to that agree with me (yes I had to check to make sure) This has made me realised how great my positive attitude has been to my well being. Some of the thoughts that have regularly passed through my brain over the last 15 months are "Life doesn't chuck at you anything you cannot deal with" and " A woman is like a tea bag, you can not tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water".
Almost a week later, with man's statement till going round my head, I feel really really lucky. I am angry and it hasn't been great but this could have been so much worse..
Sunday, 2 May 2010
More Firsts
I did it. I booked and had a hair cut. It seems to be straightening out a bit more now. We always feel good after a hair cut and this was no different. I know it was just a trim and with short hair we were limited but I had it spiked up and this lasted until the next wash. I don't feel right about using product on my hair with it being so new but I know it won't be long before I change that view.
Another first - Went for a swim on Friday night with Ali and Harry. My new costume made me feel very comfortable. My back scar is visible but it looks great and it didn't bother me. Nobody would notice my big boob little boob look.
We were the only ones in the pool when we got there and with Holly and our friends already in I realised there was no way I was going to jump in. I carefully went down the steps and then it was pure bliss. I am slow but we chatted and swam lengths. It was fab. I even retrieved a hoop from the pool floor. I came up laughing. It was well weird not having any hair that floated around my face in the water. We had a lovely time and I am definitely going to start going regularly to help increase my agility. Might even get my bike out...
Another first - Went for a swim on Friday night with Ali and Harry. My new costume made me feel very comfortable. My back scar is visible but it looks great and it didn't bother me. Nobody would notice my big boob little boob look.
We were the only ones in the pool when we got there and with Holly and our friends already in I realised there was no way I was going to jump in. I carefully went down the steps and then it was pure bliss. I am slow but we chatted and swam lengths. It was fab. I even retrieved a hoop from the pool floor. I came up laughing. It was well weird not having any hair that floated around my face in the water. We had a lovely time and I am definitely going to start going regularly to help increase my agility. Might even get my bike out...
Friday, 9 April 2010
Anniversaries and Firsts !
My skin is healing well from my radiotherapy. My arm is feeling as it was before it started which is good. Have been busy getting on with things and time is flying by.
I have made time for reflection - 12 months on from my first chemotherapy session- I smiled when I thought about that day, laughing at Rachel missing the train rather then cringing about hyperventilating over the drugs and needles. Shows what time can do....
To celebrate Easter I shaved my legs for the first time in 12 months and underneath my left arm !! Yes I had to share these firsts with you !! I'm even thinking about getting a hair cut to have a short cut look !!
I did have a pint of Scrumpy Jack for what would have been Colin's birthday on Monday and I remembered Dave and Mum's anniversaries on Thursday with a glass of red wine. I know time is a healer but it still feels wrong......
I have made time for reflection - 12 months on from my first chemotherapy session- I smiled when I thought about that day, laughing at Rachel missing the train rather then cringing about hyperventilating over the drugs and needles. Shows what time can do....
To celebrate Easter I shaved my legs for the first time in 12 months and underneath my left arm !! Yes I had to share these firsts with you !! I'm even thinking about getting a hair cut to have a short cut look !!
I did have a pint of Scrumpy Jack for what would have been Colin's birthday on Monday and I remembered Dave and Mum's anniversaries on Thursday with a glass of red wine. I know time is a healer but it still feels wrong......
Friday, 26 February 2010
One year on.....
This has been an emotional week. Monday we travelled down to Croydon for my Uncle's funeral. The upside was the family reunion with our relatives on mum's side. A lot of lovely childhood memories were rekindled. Contact details swapped and looking forward to a reunion for the right reasons!!!
Came back Wednesday and continued with my R.T. treatment. My underarm is now very sore and restricting movement in my right arm. The rest of the target areas are ok including under the breast where they would expect to see some damage. On today's visit I had the end of treatment chat with the Radiographer, where they confirmed that my skin will get worse after my last treatment (on Monday) and it will be between 10 and 20 days before my skin starts to get better. Oh well .....
Today, 2 of my old team came into my work base, including Kath who was with me when I was given the news that I had Cancer. I'm glad we had some time together, (yes it was the pub lunch time) so much has changed all round in the last year.
I am now thoroughly getting excited about our trip to Edinbrough. Flying out a week today for Freds' 40th and Barbara's 50th birthday celebrations. 15 of us in total and we are going to have a whale of a time. The C word is banned unless it's C for Champagne !!!!
Have a fab weekend everyone!!!
Came back Wednesday and continued with my R.T. treatment. My underarm is now very sore and restricting movement in my right arm. The rest of the target areas are ok including under the breast where they would expect to see some damage. On today's visit I had the end of treatment chat with the Radiographer, where they confirmed that my skin will get worse after my last treatment (on Monday) and it will be between 10 and 20 days before my skin starts to get better. Oh well .....
Today, 2 of my old team came into my work base, including Kath who was with me when I was given the news that I had Cancer. I'm glad we had some time together, (yes it was the pub lunch time) so much has changed all round in the last year.
I am now thoroughly getting excited about our trip to Edinbrough. Flying out a week today for Freds' 40th and Barbara's 50th birthday celebrations. 15 of us in total and we are going to have a whale of a time. The C word is banned unless it's C for Champagne !!!!
Have a fab weekend everyone!!!
Saturday, 20 February 2010
Radiotherapy - 4 Weeks down 1 week left
I mentioned to the radiographers about feeling nauseous on Friday and they said that it would not have been anything to do with my treatment but to keep them informed. I haven't felt as rough as I did on Friday and as I started to feel bunged up beginning of the week, I think I was just starting to come down with a cold. I am sleeping much better this week as well so I'm feeling pretty good at the moment. The senior Radiologist examined me yesterday and I have to treat my underarm as if there is an open wound and has given me Aquaform Hydrogel wound dressing to apply twice a day. Thankfully I still have limited feeling there so it is not as bad as it could be.
I met with the Breast Surgeon at Taunton on Thursday and went through my options for making me look symmetrical and showed me what the operation would involve. I am going to keep my Bristol appointment and see what they have to say as well to help me make decisions.
We have been off out everyday after RT. Cheddar, Taunton, Weston Super Mare and Camelford. It has been a relaxing and entertaining week and only a couple of times towards the end of the day I have had to hold off going to bed as I didn't want to go before the kids!
I met with the Breast Surgeon at Taunton on Thursday and went through my options for making me look symmetrical and showed me what the operation would involve. I am going to keep my Bristol appointment and see what they have to say as well to help me make decisions.
We have been off out everyday after RT. Cheddar, Taunton, Weston Super Mare and Camelford. It has been a relaxing and entertaining week and only a couple of times towards the end of the day I have had to hold off going to bed as I didn't want to go before the kids!
This weekend I am just getting organised for next week. Monday I am going to have an early treatment appointment as catching the Paddington train early evening to attend another family funeral in Croydon on Tuesday. I am getting back Wednesday mid afternoon so can make my usual time and now having my last treatment on Monday 1st March.
So just chilling and conserving my energy for a weekend in Edinborough for Fred's 40th and Barbara's 50th birthday celebrations on the 5th March. Getting really excited.... He he he
Friday, 12 February 2010
Radiotherapy - 3 Weeks down 2 to go
All the radiographers are pleased with how I am responding to this treatment. My skin is bearing up really well. They have assured me that they are treating me!!
I am being quite religious in my routine of applying Aloe Vera gel to the target areas and I'm in no doubt that this is key to the current state of my skin. I have no peeling it just looks a bit tanned. I am starting to get uncomfortable underneath the breast but undo my bra rather then use the pads given to me.
Wednesday was the half way marker and today I felt more tired then usual. Whether it is because I am so tired I don't know but felt nauseous around lunch time and felt I wouldn't last the rest of the day at work. I started to feel a bit better after a bottle of Coke, food and sugary sweets and surprised myself as I was gearing up for coming home and going to bed.
I'm on annual leave next week as it's half term. Sandra and Kieran have come down to stay. At least if this is the onset of the fatigue that you are told accompanies this treatment, I can stay in bed whilst Sandra amuses the kids!!! Then there will be only one week left of treatment before recovery period starts!! Whey hey bring it on!!!
Saturday, 30 January 2010
Radiotherapy - 1 Week down 4 to go
I feel a sense of achievement and relief. I am still anxious about how I am going to feel after week 5 but week 1 has been a breeze. Friday, my 5th treatment, I was out of work for about an hour which included a 15 minute wait at the Beacon Centre where I have my treatment. The girls at work are taking it in turns to moisturise the target area on my back - THANK YOU !! - Holly does this for me at home and I do my front. It feels just like you have sat in the sun without your sun cream but I have been warned the skin will get hard over the duration of my treatment. I am using Aqueous cream and Aloe Vera gel, 3 sometimes 4 times a day.
I turn up for my treatment, get booked in by the receptionist and wait to be taken to the locker room where I take off my top clothes. I can either wear a hospital gown or my own clothes. I have chosen to wear a vest top. I get released from my changing room by the nurse and walk round a couple of bends to where the Radiotherapy machine is. I remove my top and lie on the bed and the radiographers do all the work.
My hands are placed out the way in the rests so that they are the same level as my head. They then move and juggle me to the right position using laser beams to measure up the 3 dot tattoo's on my chest and working to the mm. Once they are happy I am in the right position I have to stay as still as I can. The machine delivering the beams moves around me. The delivery of the beams takes up about 10 minutes in total which includes the radiographers popping in to check and reset it. They are watching all the time from cameras in the room.
I have had the pleasure of listening to the best of Lionel Ritchie twice this week so have took in my own CD of Well being music that I use when I am trying to relax or mediate- Thank you Leina !!
The team are brilliant there. I feel relaxed and confident with them. I am meeting other RT patients in the waiting room as well including a couple of familiar faces, a lady from my Chemo days and another lady from my GP practice. Hark at me "My Chemo Days"
Have a good weekend everyone and bring on Week 2!!
Monday, 25 January 2010
Day one of Radiotherapy Treatment has arrived!
Feeling quite anxious all day. I knew the administration of it was going to be painless but it was the unknown. It was uncomfortable more then anything and I have tingling like sunburn as I write this 2 hours later. I had to lie still for over half an hour with my arms resting above my head on arm rests. I managed to stifle a sneeze and was desperate to clear my throat after a while. Lionel Ritchie the best of was playing on the CD throughout the duration. The bed was still and the machine moved around me, left, right and right back clicking during intervals. Tomorrow's session should not be as long but also not as quick as they hope it will be until they get comfortable with all the measurements. I have to go Monday to Friday for 5 weeks. By the end of it I should be in and out in half an hour not the hour and half it took today!
Last Tuesday I went to the Force Cancer Centre in Exeter for a Look Good Feel Better workshop.Take a look at http://www.lookgoodfeelbetter.co.uk/site/index.cfm for more details. I arrived in the town centre early as I was meeting my friend Cathy for lunch and did a bit of a shop. The workshop was brilliant, going through our bag of goodies and using them on for the 12 steps make up programme. Again it was so good mixing with other ladies at different stages of their treatment and some not even Breast Cancer. Glad I was able to make the trip as I had cancelled my first appointment last year as had so many appointments in the same week.
Got to remember to put on loads of Aqueous cream day and night now. Will also invest in some pure Aloe Vera gel and keep it in the fridge !!!
On another note my sister in law has posted some of the tributes we received for Colin which I also read out at the service. http://sandy.thedaviesclan.net/2010/01/thank-you.html For those who knew him and might like to have a read.
Here's hoping I get another good night sleep....
Tuesday, 5 January 2010
Happy New Year - Radiotherapy here I come!
Happy new year everyone! Hope ours is a bit better then last year. Can't even describe the mixture of emotions going through my head at the moment...
Back at work today and went to my first Radiotherapy appointment. The Radiographer was lovely once I got seen after waiting for 45 minutes. Had a chat, going over the forms before lying down on the scanner. The Radiographer explained to me the process and she was a bit evasive over the use of the needle word. I butted in and said your using needles and she nodded. I rolled my eyes, here we go again I thought but at least it will only be once she says hoping.
Both the Oncologist Dr's then came in to mark the spots. I laughed as it was like a mini reunion as I hadn't seen one of them since September. I got taped, scanned and needled. It wasn't too bad. I can't feel anything on my right hand side any way!
After getting dressed they had to take my photo. This was weird as I had to hold up a big strip of paper confirming my patient number, bit like someone who has had to go to prison and then it was all over. I know I am over the worst of my treatment but not looking forward to the fatigue that is going to accompany the Radiotherapy. Just starting to feel closest to normal then I have for a long time. My treament plan has also been confirmed with 25 appointments starting on the 25th January. All of them are at 4:15pm or later apart from 2 which are at 2:45pm. Also don't have to fret as Colin's funeral is before this treatment starts. It feels weird as we had been sharing our treatment trauma's he didn't get to tell me how he felt when he had his radiotherapy. Hey Ho.....
Thursday, 24 December 2009
Angels are celebrating
as my younger brother passed away yesterday evening. Peacefully, dignified and with his family. He is now with Mum and my other 3 brothers and no longer in any pain. Here's to a better year next year starting with a christening and a celebration of my late brothers life.
Merry Christmas everyone and raise a glass.
Love Sue xxx
Sunday, 13 December 2009
8 Weeks Post Op - Normality finding it's way slowly
I have been back at work now for 2 weeks which is brilliant. I still have discomfort but it is diminishing. I can even lie on my right side for a short time now.
2nd December is when I saw my oncologist and the radiographer. They examined my new breast and agreed the results were good. The Dr told me probably 5 weeks of radiotherapy and the radiographer told me 4. I have decided to think about 5 so I wont be dissappointed. My appointment for being marked up has already come through for the 5th January and they'll confirm my treatment plan then.
This was my first visit to the Beacon centre since my last chemo in September and it was a good feeling seeing the familiar faces. They recognised me even though Dolly is totally redundant now. One lady on the reception had recognised me on the T.V. and came over and told me she thought it was me and how good it was :-) .
We also decided at my visit to the Breast Care Centre on the 4th Dec that I don't need to have any more fluid drained now. Yippe ! Also one of our local breast care nurses returned my call on a unrelated issue and said she had seen me on T.V. and said how brilliant it was !
I have only cried 3 times in the last fortnight so feel I am coping well. I have been able to start moisturising my new breast ready for the radiotherapy to dry it out. I did struggle with touching my breast all over inititially but eventually got over it so I thought I would push myself one step further and look at it. Looked at my back wound first and thought looks rough but I know it will soften in time. I looked at my breast but not for very long. It wasn't me I thought and I understand why people say it is good but to me it's not my breast and didn't think it was great to look at. I know technically it is great but I struggled to think it fab. I know more work is to take place and my body shape is going to change again but decided wont be looking at it again any time soon.
I have 1 week of work left before I break up for the Christmas festivities. I hope to get my christmas cards done and out next week. Then some baking to do. Some things never change and I feel lucky in the knowledge that I can cope with it. xxxx
2nd December is when I saw my oncologist and the radiographer. They examined my new breast and agreed the results were good. The Dr told me probably 5 weeks of radiotherapy and the radiographer told me 4. I have decided to think about 5 so I wont be dissappointed. My appointment for being marked up has already come through for the 5th January and they'll confirm my treatment plan then.
This was my first visit to the Beacon centre since my last chemo in September and it was a good feeling seeing the familiar faces. They recognised me even though Dolly is totally redundant now. One lady on the reception had recognised me on the T.V. and came over and told me she thought it was me and how good it was :-) .
We also decided at my visit to the Breast Care Centre on the 4th Dec that I don't need to have any more fluid drained now. Yippe ! Also one of our local breast care nurses returned my call on a unrelated issue and said she had seen me on T.V. and said how brilliant it was !
I have only cried 3 times in the last fortnight so feel I am coping well. I have been able to start moisturising my new breast ready for the radiotherapy to dry it out. I did struggle with touching my breast all over inititially but eventually got over it so I thought I would push myself one step further and look at it. Looked at my back wound first and thought looks rough but I know it will soften in time. I looked at my breast but not for very long. It wasn't me I thought and I understand why people say it is good but to me it's not my breast and didn't think it was great to look at. I know technically it is great but I struggled to think it fab. I know more work is to take place and my body shape is going to change again but decided wont be looking at it again any time soon.
I have 1 week of work left before I break up for the Christmas festivities. I hope to get my christmas cards done and out next week. Then some baking to do. Some things never change and I feel lucky in the knowledge that I can cope with it. xxxx
Friday, 27 November 2009
6 weeks Post Op
Hi everyone
I'm feeling really fab at the moment as the Dr said I was ok to go back to work Monday, had a good nights sleep last night and have been driving again this week- my independence is coming back. I still have restricted mobility in my arm but that is going to be months before that gets back to normal. Still get tears for no reason but better out then in. I think last night was the suspension of my life whilst dealing with Cruella and getting well again and then this morning I felt great!
I have had 2 trips to see my surgeon in Bristol and he doesn't want to see me again until March. He is extremely pleased with how my new breast is shaping up. My back wound is still moist in the middle but again in time that will change. 2 weeks ago I had 700ml of seroma drained from my back and 4oomls this week so won't be long before that dries up.
Monday this week I attended a Moving Forward seminar in Bristol. Thank you Carl for getting me there and thanks Claire from picking me up from the station and taking me home. This was an event organised by the Breast Care nurses at Bristol. There was a talk on Diet, exercise, Lymphodema, and dressing after a mastectomy. We also had massages by the Therapeutic team from the Red Cross. The whole day was extremely relevant and interesting. Notably meeting other women at different stages of their treatment plans. Some of us were able to give reassurance to a lady having her first chemo session yesterday and I was given reassurance about my radiotherapy treatment from ladies who have already had theirs. I could have done with meeting a similar group after I was given my diagnosis. There's nothing like meeting people who have either recently completed or still traveling the same journey. I didn't feel so alone and whilst we are all different, we were all on the same journey.
Funnily whilst waiting to be taken up the room where the seminar was being held, I was chatting (yes some things never change) about our respective treatment plans and I confirmed I hadn't met many people who had had their chemotherapy before their op and this lady, also called Sue, went onto to say that there was this lady on the T.V. that's had the treatments in the same order as you and was trying to remember the name of the show. I smiled and owned up to it being me :-) - And thank you for my lift to the Station Sue and Sue's husband and keep me posted on how your radiotherapy treatment goes.
Last Friday was a great evening thank you Holly and the friends you roped in to help you give me a birthday party. I am so looking forward to going to work next week. I have an appointment with my oncologist on Tuesday so should know more about my radiotherapy treatment and I also need to get my back drained again. Partial normality coming my way :-). My nails are still ridged and breaking off but my hair has been having a groweth spurt so have started to make Dolly redundant. That may change next week when I go into work but we'll see.
Taking Holly to see New Moon this evening and Saturday we are going to Worcester to have a joint birthday celebration with Kerri. Will also catch up with family and friends whilst I'm there which is always good.
Have a great weekend everyone
Sue
I'm feeling really fab at the moment as the Dr said I was ok to go back to work Monday, had a good nights sleep last night and have been driving again this week- my independence is coming back. I still have restricted mobility in my arm but that is going to be months before that gets back to normal. Still get tears for no reason but better out then in. I think last night was the suspension of my life whilst dealing with Cruella and getting well again and then this morning I felt great!
I have had 2 trips to see my surgeon in Bristol and he doesn't want to see me again until March. He is extremely pleased with how my new breast is shaping up. My back wound is still moist in the middle but again in time that will change. 2 weeks ago I had 700ml of seroma drained from my back and 4oomls this week so won't be long before that dries up.
Monday this week I attended a Moving Forward seminar in Bristol. Thank you Carl for getting me there and thanks Claire from picking me up from the station and taking me home. This was an event organised by the Breast Care nurses at Bristol. There was a talk on Diet, exercise, Lymphodema, and dressing after a mastectomy. We also had massages by the Therapeutic team from the Red Cross. The whole day was extremely relevant and interesting. Notably meeting other women at different stages of their treatment plans. Some of us were able to give reassurance to a lady having her first chemo session yesterday and I was given reassurance about my radiotherapy treatment from ladies who have already had theirs. I could have done with meeting a similar group after I was given my diagnosis. There's nothing like meeting people who have either recently completed or still traveling the same journey. I didn't feel so alone and whilst we are all different, we were all on the same journey.
Funnily whilst waiting to be taken up the room where the seminar was being held, I was chatting (yes some things never change) about our respective treatment plans and I confirmed I hadn't met many people who had had their chemotherapy before their op and this lady, also called Sue, went onto to say that there was this lady on the T.V. that's had the treatments in the same order as you and was trying to remember the name of the show. I smiled and owned up to it being me :-) - And thank you for my lift to the Station Sue and Sue's husband and keep me posted on how your radiotherapy treatment goes.
Last Friday was a great evening thank you Holly and the friends you roped in to help you give me a birthday party. I am so looking forward to going to work next week. I have an appointment with my oncologist on Tuesday so should know more about my radiotherapy treatment and I also need to get my back drained again. Partial normality coming my way :-). My nails are still ridged and breaking off but my hair has been having a groweth spurt so have started to make Dolly redundant. That may change next week when I go into work but we'll see.
Taking Holly to see New Moon this evening and Saturday we are going to Worcester to have a joint birthday celebration with Kerri. Will also catch up with family and friends whilst I'm there which is always good.
Have a great weekend everyone
Sue
Sunday, 1 November 2009
Post Op part 2 !
What a busy bee I have been since I last posted.
Firstly our trip to London for the This Morning interview. Holly and I arrived Monday lunchtime and afte
r being dropped of at our hotel decided to get something to eat and head into Convent Garden for a mouch. It was quite pleasant there was not huge crowds. We walked to Trafalger Square spending some time in the National Art Gallery before making our way to Leicester Square and catching tube back from Picidilly Cricus. Rachel arrived and Kath turned up for dinner as well as she was in London that week staying around the corner. We were driven to the studios in the London morning traffic arriving in plenty of time for my debut T.V. appearance.
For those who didn't get to see this http://www.itv.com/lifestyle/thismorning/more/breastcancerawarenessmonth/
Tracie arrvied on Thursday to take up her role as mine and Holly's Carer. We had a pink friday at work. Rachel and Laura finally turned up, party at Kaths Friday night. Saturday I started to feel in a ummm lets try and not think about Monday mood. Planned a shopping trip for my Farewell boob party. Tracie took Rachel to Hospital, meanwhile Kerri and Wendy turned up so mood lifted. Rachel and Tracie finally returned with a surprise guest. My sister Francis from London. I knew she was up to something and Francis never entered my head !! That was it then. Nno room for the anxious mood and we had a lovely evening with lovely food, drink and company. Sunday a walk up Cothelstone hill cleared the lungs. When everyone departed, I got out the questionnaire that I had agreed to take part in and completed it. Got Holly organised and walked her over to her friends house. Would we like a glass of wine ??? ummm didnt take long to decide on that one. I embarrasingly forgot to make Holly's sandwiches for the next day but Claire wouldn't take no for an answer and provided Holly with her lunch. Thank you Claire and Carl for your kindness. We had a lovely distractive evening. Couldn't bring myself to pack so left that for the morning.
Had a sniffle before I got up. I know I'm in safe hands, I know it's the right thing to do but still feeling mournful about loosing my breast. Time whizzed by and before I knew it I was being brought round and given sips of water before being taken back up to my ward where I was going to be cared for along with 5 other ladies. Tuesday my surgeon examined his handy work and confirmed that he was pleased with the outcome. All I can see is lopsided breasts and my cleavage. I have taken a peak but have decided to leave this for a while. The nurses are angels is all I can say. There were 3 ladies in our bay who had Tracheostomies fitted and this just reminded me of the last time I saw Dave before he passed away last year. So when the tears started, as they do, I didn't know why or who I was crying for. Me Colin or Dave. Thanks to everyone for all my messages, cards flowers Chocolates and visits.
I came round from surgery with 4 drains attached to me where the Seroma fluid was being drained from my back. I went home with 2 and the level of fluid being drained dropped. I couldn't wait to get home and I got to choose Chilli for tea!! During tea Tracie noticed one of the drains had stopped working. We both thought that was good. Later when I went upstairs I realised I was wet underneath my arm. I hadn't felt it as was still numb. Tracie organsied visit from District Nurse and we decided it had dislodged somehow and attempted to repair it. I woke up drenched, after my first full nights sleep in a week. My scheduled D Nurse got onto the BRI and I started to cry as it sounded like they wanted me back up there. It wasn't a bother Tracie reassured me but I just didnt want to go anywhere. End result was the D Nurse was allowed to remove the drain - Hooray only 1 more left which got removed Sunday as hardly anything was coming out. Starting to feel better. Tracie has been brilliant. Never mind have I been doing as I am told. I have been submissive as couldn't do anything anyway or as Tracie put it She is the dominant bitch !!
Retail therapy has helped but had a blip last Wednesday when I went for my follow up appointment in Bristol. My back was drained again, wound checked and dressing changed. All agreed my wound was healing well and the lovely consultant surgeon wanted to know how I was manageing and getting on and then the serious talk about the Pathology results. They were able to confirm the orginal size of Cruella in what they had removed so she's gone. However, of the 10 lymph nodes they removed for examination they confirmed that 4 had cancerous cells passed through them and therefore I was going to be refered for radiotherapy treatment. I always knew this was a probabilty but I really didn't want to hear it. This was going to minimize the risk of local recourance of the same tumour. All I could think about was that C cells had travelled outside my breast. I managed to make it through the rest of my appt. The rest of my treatment can be carried out in Taunton unless I specify otherwise. For practical reasons this is great news and he has met the new reconstruction surgeon that is starting here soon and that I would like him. I didn't even make it out of the hospital before the tears started. Thankfully Tracie was paying more attention then me and reminded me that 6 out of the 10 didn't have c cells which is also good.
Thursday I set about ringing the Breast Care team in Taunton to arrange appointments for my back to be drained and to be measured for a prosthetic breast. After being told the nurses were all in a busy clinic and I was happy for an afternoon call I had a call back within 5 minutes and we arranged an appt for Thursday afternoon this week. Went out to lunch with work collegues and when we got back I had a letter inviting me out for Christmas lunch with the Somerset Breast Cancer Support Group. Didn't know they existed. Friday more retail therapy required and had a productive afternoon out in Wells. When we got home I had a message from the Breast Care team in Bristol, Sorry we missed you on Wednesday, glad to see everything progressing well. I take it you are out which is good, please ring if you need us for anything and if I don't hear from you I will call you back on Monday!
I have had a lovely weekend. Laura came down, Lynne came up, James, Lynnes new bf, came over. Tracie did my make up and we scared the monsters knocking on our door >Big Grin< !! Sunday had a lovely lunch over in Chard with some friends. I felt tearfully tired when I went to bed but I had a good nights sleep and here we are the start of another week where I am gaining more Independence on a daily basis.
Sometimes in the morning before I get out of bed, if I lie still I don't feel any discomfort and for a minute I can pretend that none of this has happened and that it is all a dream and that I am getting up in a mo to cycle to work :-)
Firstly our trip to London for the This Morning interview. Holly and I arrived Monday lunchtime and afte
r being dropped of at our hotel decided to get something to eat and head into Convent Garden for a mouch. It was quite pleasant there was not huge crowds. We walked to Trafalger Square spending some time in the National Art Gallery before making our way to Leicester Square and catching tube back from Picidilly Cricus. Rachel arrived and Kath turned up for dinner as well as she was in London that week staying around the corner. We were driven to the studios in the London morning traffic arriving in plenty of time for my debut T.V. appearance.For those who didn't get to see this http://www.itv.com/lifestyle/thismorning/more/breastcancerawarenessmonth/
Tracie arrvied on Thursday to take up her role as mine and Holly's Carer. We had a pink friday at work. Rachel and Laura finally turned up, party at Kaths Friday night. Saturday I started to feel in a ummm lets try and not think about Monday mood. Planned a shopping trip for my Farewell boob party. Tracie took Rachel to Hospital, meanwhile Kerri and Wendy turned up so mood lifted. Rachel and Tracie finally returned with a surprise guest. My sister Francis from London. I knew she was up to something and Francis never entered my head !! That was it then. Nno room for the anxious mood and we had a lovely evening with lovely food, drink and company. Sunday a walk up Cothelstone hill cleared the lungs. When everyone departed, I got out the questionnaire that I had agreed to take part in and completed it. Got Holly organised and walked her over to her friends house. Would we like a glass of wine ??? ummm didnt take long to decide on that one. I embarrasingly forgot to make Holly's sandwiches for the next day but Claire wouldn't take no for an answer and provided Holly with her lunch. Thank you Claire and Carl for your kindness. We had a lovely distractive evening. Couldn't bring myself to pack so left that for the morning.
Had a sniffle before I got up. I know I'm in safe hands, I know it's the right thing to do but still feeling mournful about loosing my breast. Time whizzed by and before I knew it I was being brought round and given sips of water before being taken back up to my ward where I was going to be cared for along with 5 other ladies. Tuesday my surgeon examined his handy work and confirmed that he was pleased with the outcome. All I can see is lopsided breasts and my cleavage. I have taken a peak but have decided to leave this for a while. The nurses are angels is all I can say. There were 3 ladies in our bay who had Tracheostomies fitted and this just reminded me of the last time I saw Dave before he passed away last year. So when the tears started, as they do, I didn't know why or who I was crying for. Me Colin or Dave. Thanks to everyone for all my messages, cards flowers Chocolates and visits.
I came round from surgery with 4 drains attached to me where the Seroma fluid was being drained from my back. I went home with 2 and the level of fluid being drained dropped. I couldn't wait to get home and I got to choose Chilli for tea!! During tea Tracie noticed one of the drains had stopped working. We both thought that was good. Later when I went upstairs I realised I was wet underneath my arm. I hadn't felt it as was still numb. Tracie organsied visit from District Nurse and we decided it had dislodged somehow and attempted to repair it. I woke up drenched, after my first full nights sleep in a week. My scheduled D Nurse got onto the BRI and I started to cry as it sounded like they wanted me back up there. It wasn't a bother Tracie reassured me but I just didnt want to go anywhere. End result was the D Nurse was allowed to remove the drain - Hooray only 1 more left which got removed Sunday as hardly anything was coming out. Starting to feel better. Tracie has been brilliant. Never mind have I been doing as I am told. I have been submissive as couldn't do anything anyway or as Tracie put it She is the dominant bitch !!
Retail therapy has helped but had a blip last Wednesday when I went for my follow up appointment in Bristol. My back was drained again, wound checked and dressing changed. All agreed my wound was healing well and the lovely consultant surgeon wanted to know how I was manageing and getting on and then the serious talk about the Pathology results. They were able to confirm the orginal size of Cruella in what they had removed so she's gone. However, of the 10 lymph nodes they removed for examination they confirmed that 4 had cancerous cells passed through them and therefore I was going to be refered for radiotherapy treatment. I always knew this was a probabilty but I really didn't want to hear it. This was going to minimize the risk of local recourance of the same tumour. All I could think about was that C cells had travelled outside my breast. I managed to make it through the rest of my appt. The rest of my treatment can be carried out in Taunton unless I specify otherwise. For practical reasons this is great news and he has met the new reconstruction surgeon that is starting here soon and that I would like him. I didn't even make it out of the hospital before the tears started. Thankfully Tracie was paying more attention then me and reminded me that 6 out of the 10 didn't have c cells which is also good.
Thursday I set about ringing the Breast Care team in Taunton to arrange appointments for my back to be drained and to be measured for a prosthetic breast. After being told the nurses were all in a busy clinic and I was happy for an afternoon call I had a call back within 5 minutes and we arranged an appt for Thursday afternoon this week. Went out to lunch with work collegues and when we got back I had a letter inviting me out for Christmas lunch with the Somerset Breast Cancer Support Group. Didn't know they existed. Friday more retail therapy required and had a productive afternoon out in Wells. When we got home I had a message from the Breast Care team in Bristol, Sorry we missed you on Wednesday, glad to see everything progressing well. I take it you are out which is good, please ring if you need us for anything and if I don't hear from you I will call you back on Monday!
I have had a lovely weekend. Laura came down, Lynne came up, James, Lynnes new bf, came over. Tracie did my make up and we scared the monsters knocking on our door >Big Grin< !! Sunday had a lovely lunch over in Chard with some friends. I felt tearfully tired when I went to bed but I had a good nights sleep and here we are the start of another week where I am gaining more Independence on a daily basis.
Sometimes in the morning before I get out of bed, if I lie still I don't feel any discomfort and for a minute I can pretend that none of this has happened and that it is all a dream and that I am getting up in a mo to cycle to work :-)
Monday, 19 October 2009
Operation Boob Job (pt1)!!
Ok Folks, short and sweet update for you!!
Operation has gone well, no problems and Sue is in recovery recovering!!!
I've left a message with the Staff Nurse passing on all your good wishes etc., and will hopefully get to speak to her sometime tomorrow.
Thats it for now, I'll keep you updated with any news I get.
I know Sue appreciates all your support and good wishes xx
lots of love
Rachel (and Sue)
xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Operation has gone well, no problems and Sue is in recovery recovering!!!
I've left a message with the Staff Nurse passing on all your good wishes etc., and will hopefully get to speak to her sometime tomorrow.
Thats it for now, I'll keep you updated with any news I get.
I know Sue appreciates all your support and good wishes xx
lots of love
Rachel (and Sue)
xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Thursday, 15 October 2009
A huge THANK YOU !!
Thanks to all of you who have made the time to leave messages on my Blog, Facebook and phone. Your comments and experiences that have been shared with me have moved me to tears. I had no idea of what the impact would be of sharing my Blog with the wider audience.
Despite the wonderful support I have had, I have felt a loneliness I can’t describe. I know that I am not the only one on the planet going through this. Sharing my journey has helped eliminate those feelings to a degree. Using my sense of humour and helping other people has been enormously beneficial. Thank you to those who have shared there own experiences with me. I feel privilidged and hope that it has helped you in some way writing as it has helped me reading them.
I am so pleased knowing that my appearance on “This Morning” yesterday has encouraged so many women to check themselves (men shouldn’t be excluded from this either). Something I shall be doing when I have recovered.
Chloe – You know how scary I can be J
Penny (nee Smith) – I remember the name I even remember the house but cannot visualise you. I’m only in Taunton !!!
Angelique –. If you read my earlier post’s when I was on FEC you may find some tips. I was fortunate not to catch anything and I know having children makes that difficult. (Just started having a cough now though). If it’s ok I would also like to ask you questions about your mastectomy.
Ange – Please let me know how you get on. What’s your treatment plan?.
Hayley – I have skimmed through your blog and you are also an amazing young lady and I love the a Tee –shirt!
Jane / Janice / Sue / Kendra – Good luck and keep positive. Let me know your treatment plans are.
Donna – Let me know how you get on fingers crossed it is’nt x
Best of luck to all of us
Sue
Xxx
Suejane.davies@googlemail.com
Despite the wonderful support I have had, I have felt a loneliness I can’t describe. I know that I am not the only one on the planet going through this. Sharing my journey has helped eliminate those feelings to a degree. Using my sense of humour and helping other people has been enormously beneficial. Thank you to those who have shared there own experiences with me. I feel privilidged and hope that it has helped you in some way writing as it has helped me reading them.
I am so pleased knowing that my appearance on “This Morning” yesterday has encouraged so many women to check themselves (men shouldn’t be excluded from this either). Something I shall be doing when I have recovered.
Chloe – You know how scary I can be J
Penny (nee Smith) – I remember the name I even remember the house but cannot visualise you. I’m only in Taunton !!!
Angelique –. If you read my earlier post’s when I was on FEC you may find some tips. I was fortunate not to catch anything and I know having children makes that difficult. (Just started having a cough now though). If it’s ok I would also like to ask you questions about your mastectomy.
Ange – Please let me know how you get on. What’s your treatment plan?.
Hayley – I have skimmed through your blog and you are also an amazing young lady and I love the a Tee –shirt!
Jane / Janice / Sue / Kendra – Good luck and keep positive. Let me know your treatment plans are.
Donna – Let me know how you get on fingers crossed it is’nt x
Best of luck to all of us
Sue
Xxx
Suejane.davies@googlemail.com
Saturday, 10 October 2009
Op countdown and what a week ahead we've got!!
Countdown started since confirmation of Op date. The 2 studies I am taking part in is as follows.
1. Quality of Life as an aid to decision making in breast reconstruction after mastectomy- filling out questionnaires pre-op, post op, follow ups and some post op Photos.
2. Trial of the effect of Tisseel on donor site seroma formation following latissimus dorsi breast reconstruction - In plain English - Tisseel is Tissue glue, Seroma is the liquid that develops after surgery which has to be drained, Latissimus dorsi is the type of reconstruction I'm having, tissue being brought from my back. This is to study the volume of seroma that is collected after the op between 2 groups. Group 1 normal finish up after surgery pipes and drains. Group 2 using Tissue glue to close the space created by surgery on my back. I won't know which group I will be in until I wake from surgery as the surgeon won't know until they open the envelope before he's starts.
Right, now for my week ahead. Back in March my sister Rachel was fed up with what was and has happened to our family with Cancer. Really not fair with Colin and myself having chemo at the same time in different parts of the country. Late one night, unable to sleep she started to write an email about it all then sent it to the This Morning (ITV) team, including the link to this blog. Forgot all about it, with everything that has been going on, until last Wednesday when she received a phone call from Ellie, a researcher on the show, who had been passed the email and had a look at my blog. She was impressed with my humour and how I'd been dealing with the chemo and everything and wanted to know if I would like to come and talk about my experience and my blog on the show. Rachel called me when I had got home from work and casually asked if I would mind talking about the last 6 months of my life to someone. Of course I wouldn't mind oh dear who else has been diagnosed ? She assured me no one we knew had been diagnosed and it would be infront of a few million people. I didn't get what she meant at all! Confused!!! (I know, doesn't take much) Then at the mention of Phil n Holly, the penny started to drop!!!. She told me about her earlier conversation with Ellie. Through both of our school girl giggles I replied I wouldn't mind at all. Rachel confirmed this had to be run by the producer first but we still kept laughing all evening. Even if this didn't happen I didn't mind as laughter is great therapy!
Thursday, I got a call as arranged from Ellie and she asked me questions about my blog and the last 6 months and asked me if I would like to come down to the studios - all expenses paid to discuss my blog with Phil and Holly. As it is Breast Cancer awareness month with Dr Chris they are doing a feature on this topic. Would I ----oh yes please !!! Would Holly like to come. No she has school and I had already made enquiries for her overnight displacement from home (Evil mom) I did re-think this yesterday and got back to Ellie and she confirmed this was still ok and school have been informed.
So Holly Rachel and myself are off to London on Monday, stay over in a lush hotel and being chauffeured to Studios Tuesday. Other guests that day are Ozzy, Joan Collins and Paloma Faith. Holly is so excited. Never mind Phil and Holly is Ozzy coming with Sharon !!!
Prior to this week my only distraction was my worry over Colin. I felt much better after seeing him last Sunday and he appears to be responding well to his 2 ops this week. Now however my last week at home is well exciting. Following on from our trip to London, Wednesday evening I am having some crystal healing, Thursday Tracie is arriving, Friday we are having a PINK Friday at work, Rachel and Laura are coming down and also going out to an evening BBQ . Saturday Kerri and Wendy are coming down so having a few beers, some lovely food and some more friends calling in as well !! Sunday I think we will go up and see the horses on Cothelstone hill weather permitting of course and chilax as have an early start on Monday!!! No time to fret and using this weekend to shop and pack for London and hospital for me (I really don't know what to wear). Outdoor school trip for Holly. Busy busy busy....
1. Quality of Life as an aid to decision making in breast reconstruction after mastectomy- filling out questionnaires pre-op, post op, follow ups and some post op Photos.
2. Trial of the effect of Tisseel on donor site seroma formation following latissimus dorsi breast reconstruction - In plain English - Tisseel is Tissue glue, Seroma is the liquid that develops after surgery which has to be drained, Latissimus dorsi is the type of reconstruction I'm having, tissue being brought from my back. This is to study the volume of seroma that is collected after the op between 2 groups. Group 1 normal finish up after surgery pipes and drains. Group 2 using Tissue glue to close the space created by surgery on my back. I won't know which group I will be in until I wake from surgery as the surgeon won't know until they open the envelope before he's starts.
Right, now for my week ahead. Back in March my sister Rachel was fed up with what was and has happened to our family with Cancer. Really not fair with Colin and myself having chemo at the same time in different parts of the country. Late one night, unable to sleep she started to write an email about it all then sent it to the This Morning (ITV) team, including the link to this blog. Forgot all about it, with everything that has been going on, until last Wednesday when she received a phone call from Ellie, a researcher on the show, who had been passed the email and had a look at my blog. She was impressed with my humour and how I'd been dealing with the chemo and everything and wanted to know if I would like to come and talk about my experience and my blog on the show. Rachel called me when I had got home from work and casually asked if I would mind talking about the last 6 months of my life to someone. Of course I wouldn't mind oh dear who else has been diagnosed ? She assured me no one we knew had been diagnosed and it would be infront of a few million people. I didn't get what she meant at all! Confused!!! (I know, doesn't take much) Then at the mention of Phil n Holly, the penny started to drop!!!. She told me about her earlier conversation with Ellie. Through both of our school girl giggles I replied I wouldn't mind at all. Rachel confirmed this had to be run by the producer first but we still kept laughing all evening. Even if this didn't happen I didn't mind as laughter is great therapy!
Thursday, I got a call as arranged from Ellie and she asked me questions about my blog and the last 6 months and asked me if I would like to come down to the studios - all expenses paid to discuss my blog with Phil and Holly. As it is Breast Cancer awareness month with Dr Chris they are doing a feature on this topic. Would I ----oh yes please !!! Would Holly like to come. No she has school and I had already made enquiries for her overnight displacement from home (Evil mom) I did re-think this yesterday and got back to Ellie and she confirmed this was still ok and school have been informed.
So Holly Rachel and myself are off to London on Monday, stay over in a lush hotel and being chauffeured to Studios Tuesday. Other guests that day are Ozzy, Joan Collins and Paloma Faith. Holly is so excited. Never mind Phil and Holly is Ozzy coming with Sharon !!!
Prior to this week my only distraction was my worry over Colin. I felt much better after seeing him last Sunday and he appears to be responding well to his 2 ops this week. Now however my last week at home is well exciting. Following on from our trip to London, Wednesday evening I am having some crystal healing, Thursday Tracie is arriving, Friday we are having a PINK Friday at work, Rachel and Laura are coming down and also going out to an evening BBQ . Saturday Kerri and Wendy are coming down so having a few beers, some lovely food and some more friends calling in as well !! Sunday I think we will go up and see the horses on Cothelstone hill weather permitting of course and chilax as have an early start on Monday!!! No time to fret and using this weekend to shop and pack for London and hospital for me (I really don't know what to wear). Outdoor school trip for Holly. Busy busy busy....
Thursday, 24 September 2009
Surgery confirmed after a day at the BRI
Yesterday I had an appointment with the Breast nurse and my surgeon in Bristol to discuss my options after my scan results taken last week. Shouldn't take long i thought and as per ususal nothing turned out as I expected.
When Holly woke up crying as she hadn't slept well I took that as a sign that the day was going to be challanging. I helped her calm down and even took her and her friend to school as her friend had phoned asking if she could get there early.
Driving to Bristol was non eventful, made a mental note to check Fearne Cottons on line black book of dating rules (you never know). I saw that where I could park free all day was now barriered with road works, saw the parking bay free but decided to carry on and turn around so I would be facing the right way home and of course it was all full when I drove back up leaving me no other choice then to use the NCP car park for an appointment that should take no more then 2 hours.
I get to the reception and my breast care nurse is waiting for me. What fantastic service I think. What Lorraine wanted was to say was last weeks scan results were unhelpful and if I didn't mind she had booked me in for a mammogram and ultra sound scan that morning as that department wasn't too busy shouldn't be too long and my consultant and her would wait and have our meeting afterwards. I laughed and said that was fine I hadn't got to worry about parking as in NCP but Lorraine said I shouldn't be long.
When I saw the number of women in the waiting room I didn't share her optimism and there I waited for nearly 3 hours to have 2 scans. The ultrasound scan couldn't find Cruella at all. I didn't get to see the mammogram xrays.
We ruled out a lumpectomy as we can't see anything, ruled out a wide local incision as they would have to take away one third of my breast and not guarantee that it would include Cruella and then have to have another op. So I am having a Mastectomy with an immediate reconstruction taken from the back as that has the best results for re establishing the blood supply to the moved tissue. 6 months later after the breast has settled they will tattoo a nipple and reduce my left breast to match my reconstructed breast. I have also agreed to take part in 2 studies which I will detail in another post.
Desicions made , the next available slot is October 19th. I confirmed that I can accept, then my surgeon leaves as waiting for me has made him nearly 2 hours late for his teaching lecture he was due at but stayed and waited to save me coming up to Bristol again. What can I say - Carling black label advert -
I mention to Lorraine that my feet have swollen up and on checking them she arranges for me to have a blood test whilst I am there. It is 3.30pm before I leave making it a 4 hour visit. When I process my car park ticket and machine confirms £10 please, my eyes start to water so I start to laugh at it all and make my way home...
When Holly woke up crying as she hadn't slept well I took that as a sign that the day was going to be challanging. I helped her calm down and even took her and her friend to school as her friend had phoned asking if she could get there early.
Driving to Bristol was non eventful, made a mental note to check Fearne Cottons on line black book of dating rules (you never know). I saw that where I could park free all day was now barriered with road works, saw the parking bay free but decided to carry on and turn around so I would be facing the right way home and of course it was all full when I drove back up leaving me no other choice then to use the NCP car park for an appointment that should take no more then 2 hours.
I get to the reception and my breast care nurse is waiting for me. What fantastic service I think. What Lorraine wanted was to say was last weeks scan results were unhelpful and if I didn't mind she had booked me in for a mammogram and ultra sound scan that morning as that department wasn't too busy shouldn't be too long and my consultant and her would wait and have our meeting afterwards. I laughed and said that was fine I hadn't got to worry about parking as in NCP but Lorraine said I shouldn't be long.
When I saw the number of women in the waiting room I didn't share her optimism and there I waited for nearly 3 hours to have 2 scans. The ultrasound scan couldn't find Cruella at all. I didn't get to see the mammogram xrays.
We ruled out a lumpectomy as we can't see anything, ruled out a wide local incision as they would have to take away one third of my breast and not guarantee that it would include Cruella and then have to have another op. So I am having a Mastectomy with an immediate reconstruction taken from the back as that has the best results for re establishing the blood supply to the moved tissue. 6 months later after the breast has settled they will tattoo a nipple and reduce my left breast to match my reconstructed breast. I have also agreed to take part in 2 studies which I will detail in another post.
Desicions made , the next available slot is October 19th. I confirmed that I can accept, then my surgeon leaves as waiting for me has made him nearly 2 hours late for his teaching lecture he was due at but stayed and waited to save me coming up to Bristol again. What can I say - Carling black label advert -
I mention to Lorraine that my feet have swollen up and on checking them she arranges for me to have a blood test whilst I am there. It is 3.30pm before I leave making it a 4 hour visit. When I process my car park ticket and machine confirms £10 please, my eyes start to water so I start to laugh at it all and make my way home...
Tuesday, 15 September 2009
Chemo R8 D13 Meeting with Nurse Specialist
I still have tingling in my feet and fingers, dry throat and my eyes have started to water. My appetite is not great but finding it's way back. My bum doesn't hurt and that makes a huge difference. Not sure whether it is the knowledge that I have no more chemo but despite all this I feel really great.
I managed a boiled egg with toast and fruit salad for breakfast before making my way to Bristol to meet with my nurse specialist Lorraine. We chatted for a bit before she went through post surgery bra and clothes options and what I would need in hospital. Went through photos of my consultant surgeons work and methods he uses. Some of the pitfalls and post surgery care. I have also been asked if I would like to take part in 2 studies and have the literature to read this week to help me decide.
As for my operation we cannot decide which / how mine will be done until the results of tomorrow's scan has been discussed at their MDT meeting next Wednesday. My appointment is the same day and after today's meeting we are 95% certain I should be able to make a decision and get a surgery date for a few weeks later.
I am getting stronger every day now and looking forward to going into work as well. Having a shopping spree with Holly this weekend and a weekend in Burnahm on Sea with Jennifer and Gail next weekend providing of course I haven't been called in for surgery.....
I managed a boiled egg with toast and fruit salad for breakfast before making my way to Bristol to meet with my nurse specialist Lorraine. We chatted for a bit before she went through post surgery bra and clothes options and what I would need in hospital. Went through photos of my consultant surgeons work and methods he uses. Some of the pitfalls and post surgery care. I have also been asked if I would like to take part in 2 studies and have the literature to read this week to help me decide.
As for my operation we cannot decide which / how mine will be done until the results of tomorrow's scan has been discussed at their MDT meeting next Wednesday. My appointment is the same day and after today's meeting we are 95% certain I should be able to make a decision and get a surgery date for a few weeks later.
I am getting stronger every day now and looking forward to going into work as well. Having a shopping spree with Holly this weekend and a weekend in Burnahm on Sea with Jennifer and Gail next weekend providing of course I haven't been called in for surgery.....
Friday, 11 September 2009
Chemo round 8 day 9
Thanks for your helpfull comments Gill.
Have started to feel a bit better today. Stayed up this morning to watch a DVD. It has been a hard week really. My Sister in Law Sandra rushed into Hospital Sat early morning. I have never felt so useless knowing I couldn't help with anything. She is home now resting...
My energy levels dropped on Sunday so have mostly been in bed since then. Feet and fingers are very tingly still. It hurts to type or write at the moment. I am using up my complan as don't really want to eat. I started using vaseline on my lips on Sunday and this prevented a crust forming on the corner of my mouth so I feel quite chuffed about that. My tongue is starting to feel normal so will start to taste food better - yippe and yes my bum hurts again...
I had a referral to Bristol Royal Infirmary confirmed on Monday for Wednesday with a surgeon consultant. I don't know what I was thinking of saying i would be ok on the train. Thank you Kath for taking me. It was very informative and I have an appointment with a Nurse Specialist there on Tuesday to go through reconstructions, MRI scan of breast Wednesday and meeting with Surgeon to confirm available options to me on the 23rd September. I'm impressed at the speed this is moving and all i know is that whatever is left of cruella has be operated on by 2nd week in October.
Will keep you posted
Have started to feel a bit better today. Stayed up this morning to watch a DVD. It has been a hard week really. My Sister in Law Sandra rushed into Hospital Sat early morning. I have never felt so useless knowing I couldn't help with anything. She is home now resting...
My energy levels dropped on Sunday so have mostly been in bed since then. Feet and fingers are very tingly still. It hurts to type or write at the moment. I am using up my complan as don't really want to eat. I started using vaseline on my lips on Sunday and this prevented a crust forming on the corner of my mouth so I feel quite chuffed about that. My tongue is starting to feel normal so will start to taste food better - yippe and yes my bum hurts again...
I had a referral to Bristol Royal Infirmary confirmed on Monday for Wednesday with a surgeon consultant. I don't know what I was thinking of saying i would be ok on the train. Thank you Kath for taking me. It was very informative and I have an appointment with a Nurse Specialist there on Tuesday to go through reconstructions, MRI scan of breast Wednesday and meeting with Surgeon to confirm available options to me on the 23rd September. I'm impressed at the speed this is moving and all i know is that whatever is left of cruella has be operated on by 2nd week in October.
Will keep you posted
Wednesday, 2 September 2009
Chemo Round 8 Day 1
Final round of chemo administered. Just got the nasty bit now that lasts for 14 daysish before I start to feel better. Tounge already lost it's colour so have started taking the difflam and my taste buds have changed. Already taking stuff to soften the bowel contents. Round 7 days 3 to 8 were spent mostly in bed and on the sofa so here goes..... but for the last time and I have started to take multi vits to help and in addition to the strawberry complan I now have a supply of banana and vanilla - Thanks Kerri for your contribution to this - I love you xx
Feeling a bit evil mannered at the moment. I feel exhusted and tired still which doesn't help. I have made a decision yesterday at my pre-assesment appt that I am not going to go for immediate reconstruction after my masectomy in October. This is mainly because the surgons will not be able to confirm if I will need to have radiotherapy until the standard removal of 4 lymph nodes to examine them for signs of cancerouse cells which is only done during surgery. The radiotherapy will effect the reconstructed breast and knowing my luck I will need it. The benifits will be that I will now be having a smaller operation on October giveing me a speedier recovery. I can choose to have my reconstruction done anytime after 6 months giving me time to restore my fitness levels and research and decide on the options open to me on reconstruction. Also this will all be done in Taunton. Lots of things to think about at the moment...
Feeling a bit evil mannered at the moment. I feel exhusted and tired still which doesn't help. I have made a decision yesterday at my pre-assesment appt that I am not going to go for immediate reconstruction after my masectomy in October. This is mainly because the surgons will not be able to confirm if I will need to have radiotherapy until the standard removal of 4 lymph nodes to examine them for signs of cancerouse cells which is only done during surgery. The radiotherapy will effect the reconstructed breast and knowing my luck I will need it. The benifits will be that I will now be having a smaller operation on October giveing me a speedier recovery. I can choose to have my reconstruction done anytime after 6 months giving me time to restore my fitness levels and research and decide on the options open to me on reconstruction. Also this will all be done in Taunton. Lots of things to think about at the moment...
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