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!!
Thursday, 27 January 2011
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.
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