Well, Goose and I met with the medical oncologist yesterday and as I suspected, she could only offer me generic information because they did not have the results of the Oncotype DX test. The Oncotype test will assess the risk of a recurrence of breast cancer or a metastasis in the future and is therefore important in my desicion making process about the further course of treatment.
What she did tell me is this.............
If I were to forego any further treatment, there's approximately a 20% chance that I would have a recurrence of cancer. If I take antihormone therapy (Tamoxifen) without chemotherapy, there is approximately a 15% chance of recurrence, and if both chemo and Tamoxifen are administered the chance of recurrence goes to approximately 10%.
However, the survival rates are as follows...........
Without any additional therapy there is a 3% chance that I will die from a recurrence, but with chemo and Tamoxifen there is a 1% chance that I will die due to a recurrence. Let me tell you, with numbers like that, I am not running to get my first chemo injection!
I also discussed the possiblity of removing my ovaries, which is considered a valid treatment option because my cancer is one that is estrogen receptor positive, which simply means that the estrogen produced in the ovaries is what is feeding the cancer cells. Although, the oncologist is not a proponant of ovary removal instead of chemo, she could not deny that it likely changed the statistics and reduced my risk of dying from a recurrence to somewhere around 2%.
Because estrogen is also produced by our adrenal glands, I may still have to take some sort of antihormonal therapy, but it may be something called an aromatase inhibitor rather than Tamoxifen. That would be a good thing because there are less side effects. Still have some research to do about that though.
Although this course of treatment means further surgery, I feel it is a better option than poisoning my body for 3 months! Good thing I did my reading, because the oncologist would never have discussed ovary removal had I not brought it up. Let me tell you folks, if you can't be your own advocate, then you better get someone who can, because otherwise you risk being a number rather than a person. That's my perspective anyway.
How's that for a bunch of information? Next steps include a visit to a gynocologist on Aug 12 to discuss the ovary thing and I have asked for a referral to another oncologist for a 2nd opinion. My sister works at the hospital in Barre, and the Docs there recommended that I see Dr Hyman Muss. He's supposedly one of the best! However, I want to be sure the results of the Oncotype DX test are received before I go see him.
Anyway, that's about it for today. I am off to get mulch so we can finish spritzing up Jessica's new pond that we all worked to establish in her back yard. That will be a lot more fun than contemplating chemo and removal of body parts! I bet she has beer too!
Thanks for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers. Hugs to all!
Shannon (Mav)
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Good morning all. I haven't posted anything lately, because there hasn't been much to talk about. As you know, the surgery was a huge success, and I feel great! I still have a some tenderness and stinging in my arm which was caused by the removal of the lymph node. Given the alternatives and the other possible outcome, I don't feel that I need to complain too much though. The final pathology report has been received, and it confirms the original findings from the operating room. They got clean margins with the removal of the 1.5 cm tumor, and it confirmed that the lymph nodes were clean. :)
Goose and I have an appointment to see a medical oncologist today to discuss further treatment. She will likely recommend chemo, but am exploring the possibility of removing my ovaries as an alternative. Because my cancer is estrogen receptor positive, removing the ovaries stops the production of estrogen, and that combined with radiation and Tomoxafin can potententially starve the cancer cells. However, because my cancer is one that goes through the blood stream (systemic), the question is wether or not that will be sufficient. Unfortunately, I think the answer will be that it is not. Oh well, you know what they say "bald is beautiful"!
It has been an interesting couple of weeks, but I can honestly say that the actual surgery itself was no big deal. My boob looks great! Aside from the scar, you can hardly tell that tissue has been removed. It's not like I had much to lose to begin with you know! A few days after surgery, my grandson Ian asked me how I was feeling and I explained that I was fine and that only a small part of my breast was removed. Without batting an eyelash, he replied, "I'm glad, because I don't think Grandpa would like it if you didn't have a breast, Nana!". So the next time someone asks if it's nature or nurture, I can assure you, it's nature! That's my boy!
Hugs and love to you all,
Shannon
Goose and I have an appointment to see a medical oncologist today to discuss further treatment. She will likely recommend chemo, but am exploring the possibility of removing my ovaries as an alternative. Because my cancer is estrogen receptor positive, removing the ovaries stops the production of estrogen, and that combined with radiation and Tomoxafin can potententially starve the cancer cells. However, because my cancer is one that goes through the blood stream (systemic), the question is wether or not that will be sufficient. Unfortunately, I think the answer will be that it is not. Oh well, you know what they say "bald is beautiful"!
It has been an interesting couple of weeks, but I can honestly say that the actual surgery itself was no big deal. My boob looks great! Aside from the scar, you can hardly tell that tissue has been removed. It's not like I had much to lose to begin with you know! A few days after surgery, my grandson Ian asked me how I was feeling and I explained that I was fine and that only a small part of my breast was removed. Without batting an eyelash, he replied, "I'm glad, because I don't think Grandpa would like it if you didn't have a breast, Nana!". So the next time someone asks if it's nature or nurture, I can assure you, it's nature! That's my boy!
Hugs and love to you all,
Shannon
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Life is good!!!!!!!!
If you visited this site yesterday then you have already read the good news; the Lymph Nodes are clean!!!!!!!! And indeed we were doing the happy dance, myself a little less vigorously than my husband and wingmen, but I was surely dancing with them in spirit.
So, even though they did lop off part of my boob, yesterday was indeed a GREAT day and one for the record books! It began with Tony, Linda, Brian and their son Ryan escorting me through the pre-op procedures, all with a great deal of good humor. And yes, we did play Pass the Trash in pre-op. The surgical staff certainly thought we were crazy, but there was one resident who I think would have liked to get in our action. If you ever need "back up" while going through a difficult time, I can assure you these are the people you want by your side. I love you Mr. and Mrs. Goose, and your whole Goose family! I'll show Tony my appreciation another time, tee hee.
So anyway, it was off to surgery and I was snoozing before I even realized it. I was then rudely awakend from a wonderful dream of BBQ'g in Jessica and Josh's backyard. We were playing cards in my dream too, and it's just as well that I was awakened because I am sure that Josh would have taken my money as he so often does! Once I realized where I was, my first question was, "Are the Nodes clean"? I admit it, I cried when they told me they were all clean! What a joy and a relief.
I was then taken to post-op, given toast and ginger ale, and after Tony came to check on me, my dear friend JoAnne, was sweet enough to sneak into post-op to give me a hug. Later, when the nurse was asking me if I had kids and I explained that I had a grandchild, because my husband had been married before, and in fact the woman who had snuck into post-op was his first wife, she looked at me like I had two heads. I just smiled and said "you take the good where you find it".
An hour later I was home on my coach. Good thing too, cuz the anesthesia did not set well with me. Linda and Brian stopped by to return my watch and good luck talismans, which included a pendant that said "BELIEVE" , an amethyst stone for healing, a silver dollar, a mini-bottle of seashells, and a note that my Mom wrote to me in 1996. It looks like they did the trick, because today I know that I have been granted great good fortune!
I slept until about 6:30 pm, and then my husband made me soup and took me out for a cremee...... he's been dieting and I have been complaining that I didn't have anyone to get cremee's with.... it's no fun by yourself, you know! It really is the small things in life that can be the biggest show of love. I told you I was lucky.
So that's the story of my day. I still have a few hurdles to get over, like chemo and radiation, but for today I am simply going to bask in the knowledge that I have been given a gift that many have not been so fortunate to receive. I am going to Aunt Vera's 84th birthday celebration, because I cannot wait to see her beautiful smile, and when I hug her it will be with the hope that she too has many more celebrations in front of her.
I am out of creative ways (I'm not that creative anyway) to tell all of you how wonderful you are, but please know that my heart swells with love for each and everyone of you.
Tyler, I expect that I will be boating and fishing on the lake soon. My left arm is a bit stiff, but I cast with my right, so I won't be kept from catching the big bass! Can't wait to see you. Hey, how come I didn't get a gin and tonic? Maybe today....... I know that I have much to celebrate.
Love you all,
Shannon (Mav)
So, even though they did lop off part of my boob, yesterday was indeed a GREAT day and one for the record books! It began with Tony, Linda, Brian and their son Ryan escorting me through the pre-op procedures, all with a great deal of good humor. And yes, we did play Pass the Trash in pre-op. The surgical staff certainly thought we were crazy, but there was one resident who I think would have liked to get in our action. If you ever need "back up" while going through a difficult time, I can assure you these are the people you want by your side. I love you Mr. and Mrs. Goose, and your whole Goose family! I'll show Tony my appreciation another time, tee hee.
So anyway, it was off to surgery and I was snoozing before I even realized it. I was then rudely awakend from a wonderful dream of BBQ'g in Jessica and Josh's backyard. We were playing cards in my dream too, and it's just as well that I was awakened because I am sure that Josh would have taken my money as he so often does! Once I realized where I was, my first question was, "Are the Nodes clean"? I admit it, I cried when they told me they were all clean! What a joy and a relief.
I was then taken to post-op, given toast and ginger ale, and after Tony came to check on me, my dear friend JoAnne, was sweet enough to sneak into post-op to give me a hug. Later, when the nurse was asking me if I had kids and I explained that I had a grandchild, because my husband had been married before, and in fact the woman who had snuck into post-op was his first wife, she looked at me like I had two heads. I just smiled and said "you take the good where you find it".
An hour later I was home on my coach. Good thing too, cuz the anesthesia did not set well with me. Linda and Brian stopped by to return my watch and good luck talismans, which included a pendant that said "BELIEVE" , an amethyst stone for healing, a silver dollar, a mini-bottle of seashells, and a note that my Mom wrote to me in 1996. It looks like they did the trick, because today I know that I have been granted great good fortune!
I slept until about 6:30 pm, and then my husband made me soup and took me out for a cremee...... he's been dieting and I have been complaining that I didn't have anyone to get cremee's with.... it's no fun by yourself, you know! It really is the small things in life that can be the biggest show of love. I told you I was lucky.
So that's the story of my day. I still have a few hurdles to get over, like chemo and radiation, but for today I am simply going to bask in the knowledge that I have been given a gift that many have not been so fortunate to receive. I am going to Aunt Vera's 84th birthday celebration, because I cannot wait to see her beautiful smile, and when I hug her it will be with the hope that she too has many more celebrations in front of her.
I am out of creative ways (I'm not that creative anyway) to tell all of you how wonderful you are, but please know that my heart swells with love for each and everyone of you.
Tyler, I expect that I will be boating and fishing on the lake soon. My left arm is a bit stiff, but I cast with my right, so I won't be kept from catching the big bass! Can't wait to see you. Hey, how come I didn't get a gin and tonic? Maybe today....... I know that I have much to celebrate.
Love you all,
Shannon (Mav)
Friday, July 18, 2008
Doing The "Happy Dance"
Ok guys... EVERYONE on your feet !!! cuz we are doing the "Happy Dance" !!!! come on.. on your feet.. hey you, over there.. get your butt up and Dance with us !! Cuz todays a GREAT DAY !!! The "noids" are CLEAN ... Ya Baby .. you heard me... CLEAN !!!!!! that means it's a REAL good day in the Munn/Singer household *huge ass smile*
And yes, you are sooooooo right, this is NOT Shannon... this my friend is GOOSE !! *snicker* the "wingman"... the buddy... the Wit :) and right now my heart is soooooo freaking happy cuz my "Mav" is going to be alright *s*
I know Shannon will be on here tomorrow or so and explain in great detail what is next, my job is to let you know that the surgery went fine.. they did a lumpecktomy (like that spelling??) *lol* and check the noids... We spoke with Dr. James (who Shannon actually has a huge crush on *snicker*... and I don't blame her a bit .. WOW) ok, anyways, and he was very pleased with how things looked and turned out :) So now we heal :) not much we can do for the next 3 to 4 weeks before we start treatments... except write on here and let her know you are thinking of her :)
Now to say that this day will go down in the "books" would be an understatement.... but I will admit, I am glad it is over !!! although I bet they will continue to talk about us in that hospital for the next while or so *hehehehe* I'm not sure they have to many patients in there that are waiting to have surgery playing PASS THE TRASH right up to the time when the come and get you *LMAO* and if you don't believe ... I have PICTURES *LOL* and also an autograph picture of Shannons boobie *hehehehehe* hummmmmm, what is that website for you tube ???
Ok, long day.. my butt is heading for a HUGE Gin and Tonic, I suggest you do the same :) and I know I say this for Shannon and Tony both... THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR PRAYERS and THOUGHTS and MESSAGES and LOVE !!!! They really felt them today !!!!
You guys ROCK !!!!
Over and Out ... cuz " I feel the need for speed "
Goose xo
And yes, you are sooooooo right, this is NOT Shannon... this my friend is GOOSE !! *snicker* the "wingman"... the buddy... the Wit :) and right now my heart is soooooo freaking happy cuz my "Mav" is going to be alright *s*
I know Shannon will be on here tomorrow or so and explain in great detail what is next, my job is to let you know that the surgery went fine.. they did a lumpecktomy (like that spelling??) *lol* and check the noids... We spoke with Dr. James (who Shannon actually has a huge crush on *snicker*... and I don't blame her a bit .. WOW) ok, anyways, and he was very pleased with how things looked and turned out :) So now we heal :) not much we can do for the next 3 to 4 weeks before we start treatments... except write on here and let her know you are thinking of her :)
Now to say that this day will go down in the "books" would be an understatement.... but I will admit, I am glad it is over !!! although I bet they will continue to talk about us in that hospital for the next while or so *hehehehe* I'm not sure they have to many patients in there that are waiting to have surgery playing PASS THE TRASH right up to the time when the come and get you *LMAO* and if you don't believe ... I have PICTURES *LOL* and also an autograph picture of Shannons boobie *hehehehehe* hummmmmm, what is that website for you tube ???
Ok, long day.. my butt is heading for a HUGE Gin and Tonic, I suggest you do the same :) and I know I say this for Shannon and Tony both... THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR PRAYERS and THOUGHTS and MESSAGES and LOVE !!!! They really felt them today !!!!
You guys ROCK !!!!
Over and Out ... cuz " I feel the need for speed "
Goose xo
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Finally!
OK, this will be the last update before sugery tomorrow. I just wanted to thank all of you for your incredible support, thoughts and prayers! The gifts have been pretty cool too! I only hope that someday soon I will have the opportunity to see each of you in person, give you a big hug and tell you how much I appreciate the love that you have shown. Yet again, I am left knowing how very fortunate I am!
Linda will update the website Friday evening for me. We of course are hoping that the cancer has not spread to the lymph nodes, and should have that answer after the surgery. So, fingers crossed!
Love you all!
Shannon
Linda will update the website Friday evening for me. We of course are hoping that the cancer has not spread to the lymph nodes, and should have that answer after the surgery. So, fingers crossed!
Love you all!
Shannon
Monday, July 14, 2008
Surgery is scheduled...............
OK, it's difinitive, surgery is scheduled for Friday, July 18, at 10:30 am. It should take about 2 hours, and then to recovery and hopefully home later that evening. I am very relieved as I thought I might have to wait several weeks to get on the schedule. I guess the squeeky wheel really does get the oil!
I am hopeful that I will feel strong enough on Saturday to attend Tony's, Aunt Vera's birthday party, I think she is turning 84. She is such a sweety and I would hate to miss her celebration. I guess I will have to wait and see though.
Again, hugs and love to all who have been so good to me and have kept me in their prayers. I am feeling very lucky!
Shannon
I am hopeful that I will feel strong enough on Saturday to attend Tony's, Aunt Vera's birthday party, I think she is turning 84. She is such a sweety and I would hate to miss her celebration. I guess I will have to wait and see though.
Again, hugs and love to all who have been so good to me and have kept me in their prayers. I am feeling very lucky!
Shannon
What a wonderful surprise!
When I first learned that I had breast cancer, I felt as if I had been socked in the stomach. But, after absorbing the information and living with it for a while, I decided that I would make every effort to maintain a positive attitude and to find a silver lining. Well, I didn't have to work very hard at this, because of my amazing friends and family. I am reminded how lucky I am on a daily basis because of all of the phone calls, cards and hugs.
Now, as if that were not enough, this past Saturday, I was presented with the most amazing gift of love and friendship. My dear friends, (and I almost feel as if I am bragging when I say they are too numerous to mention) made me the most AMAZING quilt! It is sooo beautiful! There are 21 different squares; each one of them made by someone who thought enough of me to send me they're prayers and love. So now, no matter how bad a day I am having, I only need to wrap myself in my quilt, made with so much love to know that I have found my silver lining!
In addition to the quilt, there was this immense care package filled with gift certificates, pajamas, candles, stuffed animals, a journal, a digital picture frame, and of course, a cowboy hat, a dew rag, and pink baseball cap with pink hair built right into it! Let me tell you, I am gonna be styling with all my new hair (or hairless) accessories. It was like christmas all over again!
I will never find the words to tell all of you how very special you have made me feel. The goodness, love and friendship that each of you has given me is more than I could ever have dreamed. I am so very fortunate to have you all in my life!
Thank you and I love you!
PS..... Tyler, All of this happened after we went spent the day fishing on Colchester Pond.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Incredulous........thats me!
Look in dictionary under the word incredulous and you will see a picture of me! So, after exhibiting a great deal of patience, I called my surgeons nurse at 2:00 pm (Tyler, this was just before I went out on the lake, boating and fishing). The nurse (Maggie), reassures me that although it is getting late in the day, I should not give up on getting the biopsy results and that surgery may still happen on Monday.
I wait patiently, (while boating fishing and tubing) with Heidi, Steve, Tony, Shannon and Josh until 5:15 pm. At this point, I leave a very adament yet polite message for Maggie advising that I can't quite fathom why, at 5:15pm on Friday, July 11th, I don't know if I am having my boob lopped off on Monday, July 14th!!!
Maggie calls me very soon there after to advise that although she and I had indeed sat with the surgeons scheduler on June 17th and scheduled surgery for July 14, ( I have it in writing on their paper work) it didn't seem to be on their schedule! And oh, by the way, we don't have the results of your biopsy yet either. Can you believe it? It no longer even mattered what the results were, I wasn't even on their schedule!
I proceeded (with great restraint) to let Maggie know that I really didn't want to be the bane of her existance, but having been forced into it, I now felt it appropriate to expect her to be my advocate. Fortunately, she took my concerns to heart and must have decided to do what probably should have been done earlier in the day and contacted the lab. 10 minutes later we discovered that the biopsy was NEGATIVE! Woo hoo!!!!!!!! If only I had thrown a fit at 3pm!
So.....when I was done ranting, I finally had a chance to appreciate the good news, and proceeded to go boating, fishing and tubing. What a great day!!!! I was so lucky to have Heidi there to help me joke my way through the wait, otherwise I might not have been so cordial to Maggie...........
Anyway, the bottom line is, I still don't have a date for surgery, but it seems that a lumpectomy will be sufficient and again that is good news. Maggie reassured me that I would be a priority for next week, and that they may be able to squeeze me into their schedule before the end of the week. Again, not holding my breath, but I won't make the mistake of being patient again!
Now that I got that off my chest, I want you to know that I am feeling quite positive. Although it was a rainy kind of crappy afternoon, we went out on the boat anyway, and every where we went, the sun shone! We had a blast tubing and caught a ton of fish. Although Steve caught the biggest fish, ( a 2lb Bass), my neice, Shannon, caught the most. She rocks! What a good day.
The saga continues...........................
I love you guys..........
Shannon
I wait patiently, (while boating fishing and tubing) with Heidi, Steve, Tony, Shannon and Josh until 5:15 pm. At this point, I leave a very adament yet polite message for Maggie advising that I can't quite fathom why, at 5:15pm on Friday, July 11th, I don't know if I am having my boob lopped off on Monday, July 14th!!!
Maggie calls me very soon there after to advise that although she and I had indeed sat with the surgeons scheduler on June 17th and scheduled surgery for July 14, ( I have it in writing on their paper work) it didn't seem to be on their schedule! And oh, by the way, we don't have the results of your biopsy yet either. Can you believe it? It no longer even mattered what the results were, I wasn't even on their schedule!
I proceeded (with great restraint) to let Maggie know that I really didn't want to be the bane of her existance, but having been forced into it, I now felt it appropriate to expect her to be my advocate. Fortunately, she took my concerns to heart and must have decided to do what probably should have been done earlier in the day and contacted the lab. 10 minutes later we discovered that the biopsy was NEGATIVE! Woo hoo!!!!!!!! If only I had thrown a fit at 3pm!
So.....when I was done ranting, I finally had a chance to appreciate the good news, and proceeded to go boating, fishing and tubing. What a great day!!!! I was so lucky to have Heidi there to help me joke my way through the wait, otherwise I might not have been so cordial to Maggie...........
Anyway, the bottom line is, I still don't have a date for surgery, but it seems that a lumpectomy will be sufficient and again that is good news. Maggie reassured me that I would be a priority for next week, and that they may be able to squeeze me into their schedule before the end of the week. Again, not holding my breath, but I won't make the mistake of being patient again!
Now that I got that off my chest, I want you to know that I am feeling quite positive. Although it was a rainy kind of crappy afternoon, we went out on the boat anyway, and every where we went, the sun shone! We had a blast tubing and caught a ton of fish. Although Steve caught the biggest fish, ( a 2lb Bass), my neice, Shannon, caught the most. She rocks! What a good day.
The saga continues...........................
I love you guys..........
Shannon
A Poem from Goose to Mav
This was to wonderful not to share with everyone. I love you Goose! I told you I was one lucky girl. Oh and did I mention I will be on the lake, boating and fishing today?
To Mav... Love Goose
When our world changes...
and the heart feels sad
A rainbow we look for
to make us feel glad...
That friends we have
that touch our soul...
to helps us find
that victory goal...
Where children laugh
and good times are felt...
where a simple hug
will make your heart melt...
When the sun comes up
and it shines on your face...
feel our love
and our warm embrace....
I'm so proud of you
my Forever Friend!
your strength in amazing...
an Angel I send...
To be by your side
to help you through this...
so not a single card game
you will miss...
So go get um Mav
you got Goose by your side
Boy, this is gonna be
one hell of a ride!
They'll be tears, they'll be laughter
A Gin & Tonic or two...
Hell, we might even get Tony
to do the laundry for you!
So boobies they may take
and a wig you may wear
just know ALL your friends love you
and how much they do care!!!
So theres a bit of "Wit"
for your blog I did post...
Don't ever forget..
I love you the most !!!
To Mav... Love Goose
When our world changes...
and the heart feels sad
A rainbow we look for
to make us feel glad...
That friends we have
that touch our soul...
to helps us find
that victory goal...
Where children laugh
and good times are felt...
where a simple hug
will make your heart melt...
When the sun comes up
and it shines on your face...
feel our love
and our warm embrace....
I'm so proud of you
my Forever Friend!
your strength in amazing...
an Angel I send...
To be by your side
to help you through this...
so not a single card game
you will miss...
So go get um Mav
you got Goose by your side
Boy, this is gonna be
one hell of a ride!
They'll be tears, they'll be laughter
A Gin & Tonic or two...
Hell, we might even get Tony
to do the laundry for you!
So boobies they may take
and a wig you may wear
just know ALL your friends love you
and how much they do care!!!
So theres a bit of "Wit"
for your blog I did post...
Don't ever forget..
I love you the most !!!
12:50 PM and no word yet
Still waiting for the biopsy results. Have left a message for the surgeon, but no reply yet. Going fishing and boating now, as I still have other things in life that are more important than thinking about my boobs! Oh Tyler, did I say fishing and boating? I'd start collecting ones now if I were you!
I'll post again later if I hear anything. The Doc's have my cell phone so they can reach me even while I am fishing and boating. That's 2 games isn't Tyler? Tee hee....
Hugs to all,
Shannon
I'll post again later if I hear anything. The Doc's have my cell phone so they can reach me even while I am fishing and boating. That's 2 games isn't Tyler? Tee hee....
Hugs to all,
Shannon
Thursday, July 10, 2008
It's 3:30PM and no biopsy results yet
I am having so much fun reading all of your comments and even though I have never been much of an e-mailer, I really like this blog thing. I have always LOVED talking about myself (surprise, surprise!), and now in addition to talking about, me, me, me, I get to read all these lovely notes, where you all talk about me, me, me and how special I am! Paul and Jessica, you both need your own blog!
Anyway, no news today, but am hopeful will get the results tomorrow, and be able to proceed as planned with the lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy. I'll let you know.
I took Shannon to Montpelier to visit with the cousins down there. They were all very excited to spend some time getting reaquainted and to hang out without a bunch of adults listening to their every word. They are 13 ya know! She and my nephew Josh will be back here on Friday, and we are going boating, fishing, tubing and water skiing. I of course will have to school em on how to catch the big Bass! As you can see above, I've already schooled Tony!
I appreciate your notes of encouragement, and so nice to hear from Tyler and Susie. Thanks for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers. You're the best! Hugs to all.
Shannon
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
The biopsy is done, and now we wait....
Had the biopsy today........ouch! Hopefully results will be in by Friday. Fingers crossed.
But enough about that. Had an awesome day with Shannon and Ian. We spent the day playing with Dani and her grand daughters, Olivia and Megan. The kids all got to go swimming in the rain. What the heck, they were gonna get wet anyway! After that we went to Heidi and Steve's for dinner, visiting and a bit of football, and then back home where the kids played basketball, had ice cream and watched a bit of Hannah Montana. Or Carly Smarly as I thought she was called! Can't think of a better way to spend my day than playing with kids and sharing their day! I am a very lucky girl!
Hugs
Shannon
But enough about that. Had an awesome day with Shannon and Ian. We spent the day playing with Dani and her grand daughters, Olivia and Megan. The kids all got to go swimming in the rain. What the heck, they were gonna get wet anyway! After that we went to Heidi and Steve's for dinner, visiting and a bit of football, and then back home where the kids played basketball, had ice cream and watched a bit of Hannah Montana. Or Carly Smarly as I thought she was called! Can't think of a better way to spend my day than playing with kids and sharing their day! I am a very lucky girl!
Hugs
Shannon
It's biopsy Wednesday
Good morning all. My neice Shannon arrived yesterday, feeling very grown up, having traveled from Atlanta to Vermont all by herself for the first time. She of course called her parents right away to let them know she had arrived safely, and then had to call 4 different girl friends too. Oh to be 13 again and to have so much going on you that you have to check in with your friends after a mere 4 hour flight! Actually, I think Jessica may be inclined to do that too!
So, I have another biopsy today at 10am on my left breast. You may recall that the MRI showed some other suspicious areas and because I am now considering a lumpectomy, we have to determine if those areas are malignant. I have been reassured by the surgeon that they are probably benign, but as I have said before I only want to have surgery once, so best to get the information now, and have a mastectomy if need be.
It usually takes 3 to 5 days to get the pathology report, but because my surgery is scheduled for this coming Monday, they are going to try to expedite the results. If we don't have the patholgy report by Friday, then my surgery will be rescheduled. Also, if it turns out that the lump is malignant and I need a mastectomy, we then have to reschedule anyway, so that it can be coordinated with a plastic surgeon. I don't know that we can really count on anything being expedited though. The genetic testing was supposed to take 2 weeks and it took 3, so I don't think I will hold my breath.
I am sure it has been said by most people who experience any kind of cancer, that it is the waiting that is the hardest part. I might also add, that it pays to be your own advocate, and if you are unable to do so, then you need a strong minded and determined person to act on your behalf. As I am sure you can imagine, I have no trouble holding my own, but Linda (aka Goose) also goes to all of my appointments with me so that there is a second set of ears and a differing perspective. Either way, I am learning once again that the being a withering little flower gets you no where! (I have always sort of thought of myself as hybrid rose anyway!) And by the way, if any of you ladies have been putting your mammograms off, please take care of it asap! I assure you that it is no walk in the park going through all of this, but much better than death! Simple as that.
So on that cheery note, I will leave you for today. My grandson, Ian is attending baseball camp this week, so I need to drop him off at 8:30am before I go to my appointment. Even though it is only 6am now, you just don't get this good looking without having to put some effort into it! We are headed to the beach later today or possibly over to Dani's to play in her pool. This unemployed stuff ain't so bad you know!
Thanks to everyone who has taken time to check on me and/or posted a comment. I really appreciate all of you and you truly are my back up!!
Shannon
So, I have another biopsy today at 10am on my left breast. You may recall that the MRI showed some other suspicious areas and because I am now considering a lumpectomy, we have to determine if those areas are malignant. I have been reassured by the surgeon that they are probably benign, but as I have said before I only want to have surgery once, so best to get the information now, and have a mastectomy if need be.
It usually takes 3 to 5 days to get the pathology report, but because my surgery is scheduled for this coming Monday, they are going to try to expedite the results. If we don't have the patholgy report by Friday, then my surgery will be rescheduled. Also, if it turns out that the lump is malignant and I need a mastectomy, we then have to reschedule anyway, so that it can be coordinated with a plastic surgeon. I don't know that we can really count on anything being expedited though. The genetic testing was supposed to take 2 weeks and it took 3, so I don't think I will hold my breath.
I am sure it has been said by most people who experience any kind of cancer, that it is the waiting that is the hardest part. I might also add, that it pays to be your own advocate, and if you are unable to do so, then you need a strong minded and determined person to act on your behalf. As I am sure you can imagine, I have no trouble holding my own, but Linda (aka Goose) also goes to all of my appointments with me so that there is a second set of ears and a differing perspective. Either way, I am learning once again that the being a withering little flower gets you no where! (I have always sort of thought of myself as hybrid rose anyway!) And by the way, if any of you ladies have been putting your mammograms off, please take care of it asap! I assure you that it is no walk in the park going through all of this, but much better than death! Simple as that.
So on that cheery note, I will leave you for today. My grandson, Ian is attending baseball camp this week, so I need to drop him off at 8:30am before I go to my appointment. Even though it is only 6am now, you just don't get this good looking without having to put some effort into it! We are headed to the beach later today or possibly over to Dani's to play in her pool. This unemployed stuff ain't so bad you know!
Thanks to everyone who has taken time to check on me and/or posted a comment. I really appreciate all of you and you truly are my back up!!
Shannon
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
The results of the genetic test are in.....
OMG, I think my husband is having an affair with a short haired, unemployed red head! Let me tell you if you ever want to spice things up, just make a big change to your hair, and you may be pleasantly surprised! I can't wait to see what happens when I borrow my friend Brian's Ronald McDonald wig! We'll be swinging from the rafters baby! Gotta take your blessings where you find them folks!
Anyway back to the genetic testing. I got the results yesterday, and they were negative!! Whew, what a relief! It means that I do not have either the BRCA-1 or BRCA-2 genetic mutations, and although my risk is slightly higher than the general population because there is some history of Ovarian Cancer in my family, there is only a 10 to 15 percent chance that I will develop ovarian cancer or breast cancer in the right breast. This of course also means I will not need to have a double mastectomy. Still undetermined about the removal of ovaries though, because they produce estrogen and progesteron and removing them may help in curing my existing cancer. I will have more conversations over the next weeks with the Doc's about that. They are also talking about an additional test called on Oncotype DX test, which should give us a further indication about the possibilty of recurrance in my left breast. Not sure yet when that will be done.
Now the next hurdle is to talk to my surgeon about the results of my MRI. I have 4 other "suspicious" spots in my left breast, and will talk to him today (I hope) about whether or not they have to be biopsied before I go into surgery on July 14. I would really rather only go to surgery once, so would like to know if the other areas are malignant and therefore should consider a mastectomy again, or if a lumpectomy will do the trick. I'll let you know what he says. Either way, I am simply going to focus on the good news for a while and take it a step at a time.
I had a great time in Bradford over 4th of July weekend! I spent the afternoon of July 3rd being Reiki'd and attuned by my dear friend/family Stephanie. Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by "laying on hands" and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows around us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's "life force energy" is out of balance, we are more likely to be stressed or sick and of course if it is well balanced, we are more capable of being happy and healthy.
This is the second treatment Steph has given me and let me tell you, it is very cool! After the treatment, there is a wonderful feeling of well being, and serenity. Now that I have been attuned, I can also do Reiki on myself, and have been doing so every morning and evening! I highly recommend getting a treatment if ever presented with the option. Thanks so much Steph, I can't tell you how much I appreciate everything you and Paul do for me!
The 4th was spent partying way too much, and the fireworks display in our field in front of the house was AMAZING! We then headed to Bumpy and Brim's (Jessica's Mom & Dad) house on the 5th for more of the same. Bumpy was the fireworks master at both events, and let me tell you that guy knows how to put on a display! Good thing I could Reiki myself, because let me tell you, I was off balance more than a little bit of the weekend! Gotta love the "Bradford Gang".
Well that about sums it up for today. I am picking up my neice, Shannon (my name sake) at the airport today at noon. She is 13, and this is her first trip without her parents. She is flying in from Atlanta, and the next few days will be spent in search of adventure and lots of girl stuff! We are getting mani's and pedi's tomorrow morning! She is the sweetest girl and will certainly appreciate her help in keeping me distracted as I move closer to the 14th. I really do have so much to be thankful for!
I appreciate so very much all of your good thoughts/prayers, and Lisa, I love the rhyme, I think I would have liked your Grandmother!
Hugs and love,
Shannon
Anyway back to the genetic testing. I got the results yesterday, and they were negative!! Whew, what a relief! It means that I do not have either the BRCA-1 or BRCA-2 genetic mutations, and although my risk is slightly higher than the general population because there is some history of Ovarian Cancer in my family, there is only a 10 to 15 percent chance that I will develop ovarian cancer or breast cancer in the right breast. This of course also means I will not need to have a double mastectomy. Still undetermined about the removal of ovaries though, because they produce estrogen and progesteron and removing them may help in curing my existing cancer. I will have more conversations over the next weeks with the Doc's about that. They are also talking about an additional test called on Oncotype DX test, which should give us a further indication about the possibilty of recurrance in my left breast. Not sure yet when that will be done.
Now the next hurdle is to talk to my surgeon about the results of my MRI. I have 4 other "suspicious" spots in my left breast, and will talk to him today (I hope) about whether or not they have to be biopsied before I go into surgery on July 14. I would really rather only go to surgery once, so would like to know if the other areas are malignant and therefore should consider a mastectomy again, or if a lumpectomy will do the trick. I'll let you know what he says. Either way, I am simply going to focus on the good news for a while and take it a step at a time.
I had a great time in Bradford over 4th of July weekend! I spent the afternoon of July 3rd being Reiki'd and attuned by my dear friend/family Stephanie. Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by "laying on hands" and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows around us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's "life force energy" is out of balance, we are more likely to be stressed or sick and of course if it is well balanced, we are more capable of being happy and healthy.
This is the second treatment Steph has given me and let me tell you, it is very cool! After the treatment, there is a wonderful feeling of well being, and serenity. Now that I have been attuned, I can also do Reiki on myself, and have been doing so every morning and evening! I highly recommend getting a treatment if ever presented with the option. Thanks so much Steph, I can't tell you how much I appreciate everything you and Paul do for me!
The 4th was spent partying way too much, and the fireworks display in our field in front of the house was AMAZING! We then headed to Bumpy and Brim's (Jessica's Mom & Dad) house on the 5th for more of the same. Bumpy was the fireworks master at both events, and let me tell you that guy knows how to put on a display! Good thing I could Reiki myself, because let me tell you, I was off balance more than a little bit of the weekend! Gotta love the "Bradford Gang".
Well that about sums it up for today. I am picking up my neice, Shannon (my name sake) at the airport today at noon. She is 13, and this is her first trip without her parents. She is flying in from Atlanta, and the next few days will be spent in search of adventure and lots of girl stuff! We are getting mani's and pedi's tomorrow morning! She is the sweetest girl and will certainly appreciate her help in keeping me distracted as I move closer to the 14th. I really do have so much to be thankful for!
I appreciate so very much all of your good thoughts/prayers, and Lisa, I love the rhyme, I think I would have liked your Grandmother!
Hugs and love,
Shannon
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Shannon's World as of July 2nd, 2008
Hello to all of my dear concerned friends and family. As you know, I have been diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I know, it kind of took my breath away too, not to mention what it's going to do to my boob! Anyway, Linda Seeholzer or "Goose" as she's known when she is by my side at the Doctor's office, (I of course am Maverick) and the beautiful, talented and clever, Jessica Norkon suggested that I set up this blog as a means of communicating with everyone who has been good enough to show their concern for my well-being.
So, first I would like to reassure you all that I am doing as well as can be expected given the situation. As of today, I am still waiting to hear about a test for a genetic mutation referred to as BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 Markers. The simplified version is that if I have one of these markers, there is a 50% chance that I will develop Breast Cancer in my right breast at some point in the future, and and a 30 to 40% chance of developing Ovarian Cancer. If I do have the marker, rather than just concentrating our efforts on the left breast, I will likely have a double mastectomy and also have my ovaries removed. This will improve my odds by 90%, which isn't far from the general populations risk of developing these same cancers. Obviously, I would rather only go through this crap once and who knows, I just may get that big set of breasts I always wanted! I guess you have to be careful what you wish for too.
Of course the hope is that I do not have the marker, in which case I am scheduled to have a lumpectomy on July 14th, at which point they will also do a Sentinel Node Biopsy which will tell us if the cancer has spread to my Lymph Nodes. If it has spread to the Nodes, then they will remove the nodes as well. If not, then we wait for further pathology that will be done outside of the O.R. and that will give us additional information about the further course of treatment. It is likely, given what we know so far, that I will have to have both Radiation and Chemotherepy before I am done, as well as will take a drug called Tomoxafin. The treatments and the drug will address the concerns about the possibilty of the cancer having spread to other areas of the body as well as making sure I don't have a recurrence of breast cancer.
The treatments will also put me into menopause immediately, and I will have to deal with the other possible side effects as well, which include the possible loss of hair, weight gain, and problems with mouth sores etc.. So if you run across 300 pound, bald and possibly toothless raging maniac who seems to know you, that will likely be me. Just tell me how cute I am and perhaps recommend a good diet and exercise program along with a hair dresser who makes wigs! However, if you can't joke about it, please just smile and nod!
On that same note, we have decided to make the best of a possibly bad situation by being creative. If I do lose my hair, I have decide that the more outrageous the look the better. So with that in mind, I have already started by cutting my hair short (no point in trying to grow it out now) and dying it red. I have had a few different reactions to this. Jessica says I look 10 years younger! Woo Hoo!, but my grandson, Ian is not so sure. He just said "oh Nana, it's awfully red"! He of course just thinks I am crazy anyway, but also knows that both Nana and Grandpa think they are both awfully good looking people! Either way, if you have some ideas and or wigs you would like to donate to the cause of making a difficult situation more light hearted, I will gladly accept your help/donation.
As I go through this process, I will try to keep you all updated via this blog, but if at times I am not feeling up to it, Jessica and Linda have assured me they will do the updates for me. So please feel free to visit as often as you wish, and I welcome your notes of encouragement, your thoughts and prayers, and of course any and all jokes. If at times I am not responsive to your phone calls, I hope you will understand that I am simply doing what I can to care for myself, and that it does not mean I don't appreciate your thoughtfulness.
You know what they say, there is a silver lining to all things, and so far, I can tell you that my silver lining is knowing that all of you have shown your love, friendship and support, and so I know that I am truley fortunate indeed!
So, first I would like to reassure you all that I am doing as well as can be expected given the situation. As of today, I am still waiting to hear about a test for a genetic mutation referred to as BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 Markers. The simplified version is that if I have one of these markers, there is a 50% chance that I will develop Breast Cancer in my right breast at some point in the future, and and a 30 to 40% chance of developing Ovarian Cancer. If I do have the marker, rather than just concentrating our efforts on the left breast, I will likely have a double mastectomy and also have my ovaries removed. This will improve my odds by 90%, which isn't far from the general populations risk of developing these same cancers. Obviously, I would rather only go through this crap once and who knows, I just may get that big set of breasts I always wanted! I guess you have to be careful what you wish for too.
Of course the hope is that I do not have the marker, in which case I am scheduled to have a lumpectomy on July 14th, at which point they will also do a Sentinel Node Biopsy which will tell us if the cancer has spread to my Lymph Nodes. If it has spread to the Nodes, then they will remove the nodes as well. If not, then we wait for further pathology that will be done outside of the O.R. and that will give us additional information about the further course of treatment. It is likely, given what we know so far, that I will have to have both Radiation and Chemotherepy before I am done, as well as will take a drug called Tomoxafin. The treatments and the drug will address the concerns about the possibilty of the cancer having spread to other areas of the body as well as making sure I don't have a recurrence of breast cancer.
The treatments will also put me into menopause immediately, and I will have to deal with the other possible side effects as well, which include the possible loss of hair, weight gain, and problems with mouth sores etc.. So if you run across 300 pound, bald and possibly toothless raging maniac who seems to know you, that will likely be me. Just tell me how cute I am and perhaps recommend a good diet and exercise program along with a hair dresser who makes wigs! However, if you can't joke about it, please just smile and nod!
On that same note, we have decided to make the best of a possibly bad situation by being creative. If I do lose my hair, I have decide that the more outrageous the look the better. So with that in mind, I have already started by cutting my hair short (no point in trying to grow it out now) and dying it red. I have had a few different reactions to this. Jessica says I look 10 years younger! Woo Hoo!, but my grandson, Ian is not so sure. He just said "oh Nana, it's awfully red"! He of course just thinks I am crazy anyway, but also knows that both Nana and Grandpa think they are both awfully good looking people! Either way, if you have some ideas and or wigs you would like to donate to the cause of making a difficult situation more light hearted, I will gladly accept your help/donation.
As I go through this process, I will try to keep you all updated via this blog, but if at times I am not feeling up to it, Jessica and Linda have assured me they will do the updates for me. So please feel free to visit as often as you wish, and I welcome your notes of encouragement, your thoughts and prayers, and of course any and all jokes. If at times I am not responsive to your phone calls, I hope you will understand that I am simply doing what I can to care for myself, and that it does not mean I don't appreciate your thoughtfulness.
You know what they say, there is a silver lining to all things, and so far, I can tell you that my silver lining is knowing that all of you have shown your love, friendship and support, and so I know that I am truley fortunate indeed!
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