Health Updates
The Health Update e-mails below were an easy way to develop a support group of family and friends and keep them informed of my cancer journey with a minimum of effort, enabling them to be helpful and supportive. This regular communication also helped me to appreciate the progress I was making, were a convenient a way to recognize and thank others for their helpfulness, and have been very helpful documentation as I write about my journey. The responses I received were warm fuzzies that immediately rewarded me for my effort and kept me sending them even though sometimes it was an effort.
Initial E-mail to Sisters Upon Diagnosis, 4/10/2012
It has been determined through a biopsy that I have a cancer in my right breast. I am scheduled to have a mastectomy on Monday, so we have canceled our plans to go to the Star Party next week. It should not affect the family reunion. I was given the option of doing chemo along with a partial mastectomy, but the full mastectomy was recommended in my case. The doctor was optimistic that the surgery will take care of it completely. Paul has been very supportive. The doctor said we could wait for another week and attend the Star Party; Paul said "Let’s do it now."
Health Update #1, 4/21/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
I have seen a second surgeon for a second opinion, and he has recommended that I have a mastectomy as well, so that is the option that I plan to take. I am being referred to an oncologist whom I will probably be able to see next week. He will determine whether I need chemotherapy before the surgery, and surgery will be scheduled. So right now, I am in a waiting pattern and doing what I can to educate myself about breast cancer and get ready for the surgery. Paul has been very supportive, attending doctor appointments with me and getting back to walking with me on a regular basis. He is even considering eating more vegetables with me. And I have gotten back to meditating and yoga.
I obtained a Personal Health Manager kit from the local American Cancer Society, looked up information on the internet, and have received a researched analysis of my diagnosis, with treatment and genetic testing options from my son-in-law, Brian. I have also talked to several cancer survivors and heard their stories and gotten advice. I have gotten consultation on juicing and borrowed a juicer in order to increase my vegetable and fruit intake. Today, I bought a bunch or organic vegetables and fruit at the grocery store and will try them out on juicing.
Many thanks to you for your words of concern and encouragement. I feel very supported.
Love, Jane
Health Update #2, 4/23/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
I have an appointment with oncologist…at 9:00 am on Monday, April 30. I won't know any more about the treat-ment plan until then. I am still in a learning and waiting mode and am feeling fine. I have made a dent in the large amount of fresh vegetables and fruit that I bought last week. I feel very supported by well wishes, prayers, offers of help, and sharing experiences from friends and family.
Thank you all, Jane
Health Update #3, 4/30/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
I saw the oncologist this morning; he consulted with the surgeon, and I now have a treatment plan. I will have a mastectomy in a couple of weeks and then start chemotherapy in about a month after that. The chemotherapy will last for about 4 1/2 to 5 months. My daughters Mary Jane and Karen will be coming to be with me and help for a few days during and after the surgery. We are glad to get something going. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #4, 5/2/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
Surgery is scheduled for Tuesday, May 15th at…Hospital in Waco. I will go in at 6:00 am and have surgery at 8:00 am. I will be spending Tuesday night in the hospital. Mary Jane [my younger daughter] will be arriving the weekend before the surgery to help me prepare for it, and Karen [my older daughter] will make every effort to arrive the night before. A month after the surgery, I will start chemotherapy. I have started attending a cancer support group. The first session was on nutrition. A knowledgeable dietician answered questions including some of mine. She told me how much protein I will need to consume per day on a regular basis as well as during chemotherapy, so I am focusing on building up my protein reserve.
On recommendation from the book Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster, I have ordered a relaxation CD to get really relaxed and feeling positive about the surgery, and my surgeon is going to say positive statements during the surgery. I am already feeling the positive energy from all of your emails, cards, and calls.
Love, Jane
Health Update #5, 5/9/2012
Dear Family and Friends,
I received the Heal Faster relaxation CD and have been using it twice a day as recommended, and it is working. I have learned enough of it to relax myself during the bone scan that I had yesterday. In the last couple of days, I have also had a CT scan and an echo-cardiogram. I am on the last stretch now.
I had a good visit with my surgeon, today in which he answered a long list of questions. He said the surgery would last about 1 1/2 hours, with the possibility of lasting another 3/4 hours if lymph nodes are involved. I will be listening to some of my mother's favorite peaceful piano pieces on a CD player during the operation. I have also talked with my anesthesiologist. She has agreed to say the positive statements during the surgery. Having a woman doctor reminds me of my mother, who was an anesthesiologist. Pre-op will start at 8:00 am, and the operation will start at 8:30 am.
Please send me peace, tranquility and love during the half hour before the operation. Thank you again for all of your continued positive energy.
Love, Jane
Health Update #6, 5/15/2012
All:
This update comes to you from the hospital, Tuesday, May 15 at 7:45 p.m. Paul is typing this for me. I had surgery this morning at 8:30 a.m., and the report from the surgeon was the best result we had hoped for—the tumor was completely removed with clear margins, and there was no lymph node involvement. I will be spending the night here and going back home tomorrow. I have been resting comfortably all afternoon, and we have been very pleased with all the services and personnel here….
Paul, Karen, and Mary Jane, along with three dear friends, anxiously awaited the 2 hour and 15 minute procedure and were happily relieved at the report.
I am so grateful for all the love, support, thoughts, and prayers that were sent my way—they made a big difference for me.
Love, Jane
Health Update #7, 5/18/2012
Dear Family and Friends,
Just wanted to let you know that I am recovering well from surgery. I came home Wednesday about noon. Each day I feel stronger and have less need for pain control. At my follow-up appointment with my surgeon on May 24th, I should find out when chemotherapy is scheduled. It may be as soon as the following week. So between now and then I will be learning how best to get through chemotherapy with The Chemotherapy Survival Guide. (Thanks to Paige for sending me this book.) I have a lapboard that allows me to use my computer in an easy chair. And I have my wonderful daughters Karen and Mary Jane here to visit and help with cooking and housework. I am also enjoying having my grandchild Derrick here and am looking forward to the arrival of my other grandchild Eleanor on Monday.
Thank you all again for your messages of love and support.
Love, Jane
Health Update #8, 5/25/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
As I write this I am listening to the lovely sound of my grandchild Eleanor singing while playing the piano. My sisters Lillian and Louise and niece Carol and her son Henry will be arriving for a week end visit this afternoon. My sister Sally, her daughter Emily, and her children will be arriving tomorrow.
I've had a little glitch with the healing of my surgery wound. I have developed a hematoma and have a follow up appointment with my surgeon on June 4 to see if the wound has drained enough. If not, I will have minor surgery to drain it.
I finally have a chemotherapy plan, and I have agreed to participate in an anti-nausea drug clinical trial. I will start the chemo on June 19 with a follow-up shot on June 20. I will be getting the two-hour treatment and the shot every two weeks for eight cycles. The purpose of the treatment is to eliminate any microscopic cancer cells that may be hanging around in the rest of my body. My CT scan detected that I have some small (< 1/2 cm) nodules in my lung that are not likely to be, but could be, cancerous. The oncologist said that it is unusual to have lung involvement with triple negative cancer if the lymph nodes are not involved. However, he needs to watch for it. So I will have a follow-up chest CT scan on June 18 before starting the chemotherapy.
I have plenty of time to get ready for chemo. I have already tried on free wigs at the American Cancer Society. I found one that I like, but they are going to try to find a larger size for my big head. I will also be getting a shorter hair cut before the chemo, as is recommended. And I will be attending a Look Good ... Feel Good class at the American Cancer Society on June 11 to get some pointers about make-up, wigs, and other hair coverings.
Continue to keep me in your thoughts.
Love, Jane
(NOTE: Inadvertently, there is no #9)
Health Update #10, 6/5/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
We had a wonderful 50th Anniversary Party on Saturday…. I am soooo! appreciative of the help that Karen and Mary Jane provided me during the last three and 1/2 weeks. Thanks to them, I have a clean house, groceries, and frozen food stocked up for a while, and I was able to have two wonderful supportive events with family and friends over the last two weekends.
Yesterday my surgeon said I am healing well. I have another appointment with him next Monday at which he plans to remove the drain and staples. Then I can start the exercises that will help me to regain range of motion in my right arm. I am really looking forward to that.
Today, I attended a cancer support group at my oncology clinic where I had a helpful visit with another participant about wigs. Afterwards, I met with a nurse to sign up to participate in a clinical study of a new anti-nausea drug. It will require some extra Dr. visits on the sixth day of chemo, so my chemo start date is moved to June 20th, and I will have a Dr. visit on June 25th. Today as a prerequisite to starting the clinical trial they gave me a neurological test and an EKG, and they drew blood for tests.
Today I drove the car for the first time since my mastectomy. It seems to have gone well. I drove to the support group and then to see the transit of Venus, which the Central Texas Astronomy Society organized and at which Paul had his telescope set up. It is nice not to be homebound, but I am still pretty cautious about it.
Thank you again for all of your positive thoughts, energy and prayers. I continue to feel wrapped in love.
Love, Jane
Health Update #11, 6/12/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
It looks like I am going to be taking the full four weeks that was allowed for me to heal from surgery before chemo. My drain and staples were removed on Monday, but the area still needs to heal more. Both my oncologist and my surgeon will be checking me out again before I start chemo June 20.
Today I found out from my GP doctor that my LDL cholesterol was lower than it was back in December when he told me to try to reduce it by diet. Yeah! It is still not low enough, but I feel better about eating eggs to get my protein up.
I've been doing some last minute preparations to get ready for chemo. Last night my friend Tracey and I attended the Look Good...Feel Good class provided by the American Cancer Society to teach cancer patients how to take care of their skin during chemotherapy. We got some good pointers about skin care and makeup and a supply of makeup. There were six of us at different stages in our journey. Those who were further along said they wore hats and scarves more often than wigs because they were cooler and more comfortable. Today, I stopped by a cancer gift shop to look for scarves and hats.
I really appreciate my church family and friends who have brought us meals. Paul has been wonderful in accompanying me to doctor appointments, washing clothes and dishes, and even cleaning house. He will be going to chemotherapy with me next week.
Thanks again to all of you who are keeping me in your thoughts and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #12, 6/18/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
Both my surgeon and oncologist have given me the go ahead for chemotherapy. So I am on for June 20th.
I had a good time at the music circle at church on Saturday and played the banjo. That is one the things that I have been visualizing when listening to my meditation tape. So now I am hopeful that my visualization of a peaceful chemotherapy session will be realized also.
My surgeon cleared me for doing range of motion arm exercises today and for participating in the Waco Family Y Livestrong exercise program that starts July 5th. So, today I did exercises, and I am going to try going to yoga on Wednesday after chemotherapy— if I get through in time.
Friends have signed up to bring meals this week, and my sister Lillian is coming for a helpful visit next week. So I am in good shape for the first round of chemo.
Thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers that continue to wrap me in love.
Jane
Health Update #13, 6/20/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
Just a quickie. So far so good. Chemotherapy was peaceful today, and I don't have any side effects yet. I will not be able to participate in the clinical trial, however, due to a malfunction of the EKG machine.
Thank you for all your positive thoughts and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #14, 6/25/12
Dear Friends and Family,
Looks like I have made it through the first chemo phase with relatively minor side effects. The most bothersome have been insomnia and constipation. But since they are mostly related to medications I won't need for now, I shouldn’t be bothered by them for a while. Many thanks to my friends who brought delicious healthy meals on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
This morning I feel great, and yesterday was a very good day. I did not take any anti-nausea medicine; kept water and saltine crackers handy to snack on throughout the day; and made sure to drink the variety and amount of liquids recommended by my Cancer Survival Guide book. I have been doing my range of motion exercises twice a day since last Thursday (seeing progress), and Paul and I have been walking a mile every evening.
I enjoyed seeing everyone at church yesterday and after church had a nice visit with a friend. And last night I felt good enough to work on the New Zealand trip presentation I am scheduled to give to the Audubon Society in the fall.
The highlight of the week was seeing a black swallowtail butterfly that had newly emerged from its chrysalis in my butterfly garden. Paul noticed when it began to fly and ran to get me so I could see it.
I am looking forward to Lillian coming tomorrow for a week and Mary Jane coming on the week end.
Keep those positive thoughts and prayers coming.
Love, Jane
P.S. Here is a picture of me during chemo adorned with the quilt that dear friend Lori made for me. (NOTE: See picture in Chapter 8)
Health Update #15, 7/6/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
My second chemo session went very well yesterday with a friend (Marty) accompanying me, as Paul was not available. It gave me a chance to have a nice visit and have a helper when needed. I think I have all of my side effects under control now, and the doctor says that they should NOT increase with future treatments, except that fatigue will increase. I have set my cell phone to remind me to drink fluids every hour, so that keeps me hopping.
I had very nice visits with Lillian and Mary Jane last week. Lillian kept me supplied with nutritious food and went with me to chair yoga class and centering meditation. Mary Jane pampered me by cutting my hair and giving me (and Lillian) manicures. We now have Mary Jane's dog Cocoa for a visit …, while Mary Jane is putting her house on the market.
This week on Monday I went to my regular yoga class and it went very well. On Tuesday, I noticed a few head hairs coming out, so Paul shaved my head for me. At first it was a bit of a shock, but I am getting used to it. Below are pictures of "Before" (with Mary Jane's hair cut), "After" ("a naturale') and "In Wig". Last night I attended my first LiveStrong exercise class at the Waco Family Y—a get acquainted session with a pot luck meal and ice-breakers. I met some nice people who are at various stages of cancer and felt relatively fortunate. I wore my wig for the first time and got several mice complements on it…. (Note: See pictures in Chapter 9)
I appreciate the meals that are being provided by friends, and your thoughts and prayers. They are really keeping my spirits up.
Love, Jane
Health Update #16, 7/23/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
I had my third chemo session last Thursday, sitting next to my friend and fellow church member Tracey, who is receiving chemo for lymphoma. It was nice to be able to visit with her during the 2-3 hour procedure.
Now that I have had three treatments, I am getting to know what to expect. So far, I feel all right on the treatment day and most of the day after. Then I feel nauseated, fatigued, dry-mouthed, and insomnious for 2 or 3 days, and then I feel pretty good again until after the next treatment. I enjoyed having Mary Jane’s companionship this weekend as I rested. Even with this schedule of events, I have not missed a LiveStrong exercise session at the Waco Family Y, and I have missed only a few of my daily range of motion exercises at home. I am also keeping up yoga.
One concern is that my platelet count is having a hard time recovering from the chemotherapy in time for the next treatment. It has barely made it to the acceptable level the last two times. I could use some positive energy and thoughts toward a sufficient platelet count on August 2, so that treatment is not delayed.
I am looking forward to seeing many of the members of my wonderful family again this weekend for Mary Jane’s baby shower. I should be feeling great and be able to enjoy the visit.
I continue to be uplifted by your thoughts and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #17, 8/3/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
Hoorah! My platelets were at a high enough level, and I was able to have my treatment yesterday. They were actually higher than they were for my last treatment. I think it must have had to do with a combination of your positive energy and prayers, the wonderful family reunion weekend of Mary Jane’s shower, my visualizations and affirmations, and the collard greens, broccoli, poached eggs, tuna fish, and salmon I ate during build up phase. I am now taking an antibiotic for a staph infection, and I am told that it might affect my platelet level, so I will have another platelets issue for my next treatment on August 16.
Thank you to my friends for continuing to bring delicious food. And keep those positive thoughts, prayers, and energy coming my way.
Below is a picture taken during the weekend with family.
Love, Jane
Health Update #18, 8/20/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
The highlights for me since my last update include having a lovely evening playing music with husband Paul and friends at Reynolds Creek Park amphitheater and making a quick trip to Dallas for a delightful baby shower for daughter Mary Jane, given by her church friends. Below is a picture from the shower. I continue to enjoy sharing the LiveStrong exercise program at the Waco Family Y with a group of fellow survivors.
Hooray again for my platelets. I barely had enough platelets to have my chemotherapy on schedule last Thursday. It has taken two 10-day rounds of antibiotic, but I think that the staph infection will be cured when I am through with the 2nd round.
I have started a different chemotherapy drug and am taking steroid pills and Tylenol to control new side effects—tingling toes and muscle and joint pains. I am also experiencing fatigue, as I expected. So I appreciate your continue positive energy and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #19, 9/1/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
The platelets have made a great come back, so I easily met the criteria for having my chemo. Six down and two to go. My next treatment will be on Friday, Sept. 14th due to my doctor’s busy schedule after his vacation. Then it will be back to Thursday, Sept. 27th for my last chemo. I am feeling great right now. It is amazing what steroids can do for you. I will have to see if the fatigue sets in after my three days of steroids. The infection started coming back, and I jumped on it quickly, so I am on an antibiotic again, and the infection is fading again. This ought to take care of it for good, as I will be taking it for 27 days.
Last night at the LiveStrong program at the Y, I saw a video of a great presentation given by a dietician to an Austin LiveStrong group. It was based on a scientific World Cancer Research Report, giving information about how foods that you eat encourage or inhibit cancer cell growth, causing reoccurrence. Since I am about to come to the end of my chemo treatments, I am now beginning to focus on how to prevent reoccurrence. The Triple Negative type of cancer that I have is aggressive and tends to reoccur more frequently than other types. I am also looking forward to reading the book Anticancer, which gives much of this same information I am told.
I am proud that I have made myself a big pot of kale soup and frozen it in serving size portions for use. Also, I learned how to buy and cook salmon and cooked it for myself last week. That was a first.
Anyway, this is where I am right now--still appreciating all of the positive energy, prayers, and thoughts—and my helpful husband and friends.
Love, Jane
Health Update #20, 9/18/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
I had another good platelet count for my treatment (7th of 8) last Friday, and the doctor said that I was doing very well.
I went to the Waco Farmers Market on Saturday to get grass-fed beef, cage free chicken, and organic eggs. And I went early enough to participate in the yoga on the Lawn there. However, I lost my balance and sprained my ankle during the yoga. So I was laid up icing and elevating my ankle for three days. I stayed home from church and the LiveStrong class on Sunday and yoga on Monday, and I will likely not be healed for about a week. However, I have had time to read Anticancer: a New Way of Life by David Servan-Schreiber, MD, PhD. It is a great book—very well written and full of great information about what to do to prevent reoccurrence of cancer. It is autobiographical, written by a cancer survivor, with recommendations regarding diet, exercise, and mind-body techniques which are supported by scientific research. It also has recommendations regarding other household products, such as cleansers and makeup that should and shouldn't be used. So now, I am looking into changing some products I have been using.
I am still elevating my ankle and using crutches, so Paul is having to do extra duty—fetching things for me and learning how to use the microwave to heat up TV dinners.
I am looking forward to the LiveStrong celebration pot luck this Thursday, which will be the last session except for an assessment next Sunday. I really hope that my ankle is healed by Oct. 6th for the LiveStrong 5K which I have entered with Paul.
I am also looking forward to a visit from daughter Mary Jane next week, her last visit to Waco before moving to Des Moines. Baby Ian is due Nov. 10, and we hope to be there for the grand occasion. My last chemotherapy treatment will be Thursday, September 27th.
Many thanks again for your continued prayers, positive thoughts, and help that uplift me.
Love, Jane
Health Update #21, 10/3/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
We had one last visit from Mary Jane last week before her move to Des Moines. Although she had much to do while here—making long distance arrangements for work to be done on the house she and Ray are buying and sorting out what she wants to take and leave when she goes to Des Moines—she was great company and very attentive to me.
I had my last chemotherapy treatment on schedule last Thursday. During the treatment, I took a little tumble in the bathroom. I did not hurt myself, but pulled the IV loose so that some of the chemo drug leaked into the skin around the port. The nurse immediately reconnected the IV and stopped the leak. She gave me instructions to ice the area four times a day for four days and call if there is pain, redness or swelling, but I did not have to call.
On Sunday at church, I made the attached presentation about the LiveStrong program for cancer survivors at the Y. I am so thankful that I had that program to participate in during my treatment. My sprained ankle is still on the mend, so I don’t think I will be doing much walking on it at the LiveStrong 5K race on Saturday. Paul will be walking, however, and I will be there to be supportive.
As expected, I have had cumulative side effects with this last treatment, but they are under control. I am really looking forward to being chemo free.
I have a chest CT scan on Monday to see if there has been any change in the nodules that were previously noticed on my lungs, and a follow-up visit with my oncologist on Friday the 12th. We plan to leave for Denver on the 15th to visit Karen and Brian and the kids, after which we will go to Des Moines to be with Mary Jane and Ray during Ian’s birth—he’s due Nov. 10.
While reading the Anticancer book, Paul experienced a conversion to the anticancer lifestyle—green tea—YES; Café Vienna and doughnuts—NO—and other changes. So we are making the anticancer lifestyle change together.
Again, thank you for all your prayers, positive energy, help, and support during my journey.
Love, Jane
Health Update #22, 10/15/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
On Friday, I found out that the CT scan reflected that the nodules on my lungs had not changed, which was excellent news, meaning they are not cancer. Yeah! I am very happy to be doing walking exercise and yoga again. The oncologist will continue to monitor my status every three months during the first year after chemotherapy. I do not have to take any follow-up medications; however, I will see a radiologist in December to determine if radiation is recommended to reduce the chance of recurrence.
We are saddened by the death of Paul’s cousin last week. We arrived in the Galveston Bay area this evening and will be attending her funeral on Friday before heading for Denver.
Thank you all for your continued support.
Love, Jane
Health Update #23, 11/8/2012
Dear Family,
After a four-day visit to Bayview to attend the funeral for Paul’s cousin, we had a nice nine-day visit with Karen and family in Denver. We are now in Des Moines, Iowa, with Mary Jane and Ray.
As I left Waco, I was a bit concerned about being away from my doctors so soon after finishing my chemotherapy. I did have some sleepless nights at first due to neuropathy in my hands and feet. However, I was able to get a prescription called in to a Denver pharmacy, which along with Tylenol is taking care of the problem.
When we arrived in Des Moines, Mary Jane and Ray were in transition from their rented apartment to their newly pur-chased home. The day after we arrived, I went with Mary Jane to the hospital to check out her swollen foot. While she was there, they monitored the Ian’s heart rate and decided that he needed to be born the next day. Early the next morning Mary Jane had a C-section with Ray in attendance, after which I spent a relaxing day with them. Meanwhile, Paul was assem-bling baby furniture and moving low priority furniture and boxes, readying the house for their homecoming. He was able to join us for a wonderful long visit the birth day after-noon and evening at the hospital. I was strong enough the following day to help Paul unpack boxes and organize the kitchen. Every-one is home now. Ray has been able to get family medical leave, and Karen and Derrick arrived from Denver last night for a 10-day visit to help, and especially to help Mary Jane get going with breast-feeding.
We anticipate returning to Waco in late November or early December.
Love, Jane
Health Update #23a, 12/6/2012
Dear Family and Friends,
Since my last update we have been on a six week trip, visiting extended family in the Galveston Bay area, our daughter Karen and family in Denver, CO, and our daughter Mary Jane and Ray in Des Moines, Iowa. While in Des Moines, Mary Jane had a healthy baby boy, Ian, and Karen and kids joined us to help for about 10 days. It was a sweet family time.
We arrived home in time for my appointment with a radiol-ogist on Monday, December 3rd. I was referred by my oncolo-gist, who thought I should consider radiation. After discussing it with the radiologist and finding out that it will decrease my chances of recurrence from about 26% to about 13%, we decided to go ahead with it. It will involve 33 treatments which will start about December 16th and go through the end of Jan-uary. They will be 15 minutes each, Monday through Friday excepting Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. It will be targeted to the mastectomy area. The side effects, which will probably not start having an effect until about half way through, will be skin irritation (like a bad sunburn) and fatigue.
The effects of the chemotherapy are wearing off, and I have medication to control that which is left. So I am feeling pretty good right now. Paul and I are walking briskly 30 minutes a day; I am doing some meditation, and cooking and freezing food for my upcoming periods of fatigue. I am still getting the hang of the anticancer diet—learning recipes and ingredients.
I will need your positive thoughts and prayers to help me get through this next bump in the road.
Love, Jane
Health Update #24, 1/12/2013
Dear Friends and Family,
I am well into radiation treatments now—15 down and 18 to go. I do not feel anything during the treatment, and so far the side effects of skin irritation and fatigue have been mild. I put a gooey, soothing ointment on the radiated area twice a day, and I usually take a couple of short naps during the day.
Paul and I are still walking regularly, and I have started taking NIA (sort of like dancing yoga) at the Waco Family Y. It is fun and I can almost keep up with the class. I have had to let up on yoga and NIA temporarily, however, while I recuperate from Jan. 10th cataract surgery.
I am finding that my memory is not as good as it used to be, so it needs exercising. I attended a class held by my friend Cheryl on the benefits of meditation to prevent Alzheimer’s and am now equipped with a meditation CD of a brain exercise I intend to start using. I have also started attending a country western line dancing class at the Y. It is not very strenuous physically, but is exercising my brain and is fun. I miss the international folk dancing I used to do.
Cheryl also introduced me to Janice, an oncology certified massage therapist who has given me three gentle massages and who introduced me to Juice+, a whole foods supplement to increase my fruit and vegetable intake.
My first quarterly (post-chemo) oncology follow-up visit was Friday, Jan. 11. The doctor said I am doing well overall, but my platelet, WBC, and protein levels are below normal. So, I am adding poached eggs and salmon back into my diet. A lingering side effect from the chemotherapy is neuropathy in my hands and feet, which could be permanent. I am focusing my meditation on relieving this symptom.
After my radiation treatments are completed, I am looking forward to going to the Southwest UU Women’s Conference in Corpus Christi and afterward doing some birding with my improved vision.
Thank you for your continued support, positive thoughts and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #25, 2/14/2013
Dear Friends and Family,
Hurrah!!! My last radiation treatment was yesterday (Wednesday). My skin continued to hold up well. The fatigue continued to be mild, but I did start slowing down on my walking and I am resting more often for short periods during the day. I have not gotten back to NIA or yoga.
My eye has almost healed from cataract surgery, and I have some improvement in my vision, but I am looking forward to getting a new lens for which I will get a prescription on March 4th.
My neuropathy is still the same, but today I started taking a Vitamin B supplement, Neuropathy Support Formula, that has a money back guarantee of significant improvement in four months. So it seems like it is worth a try.
My sister Lillian visited last week and we enjoyed sharing our dietary skills and knowledge.
Sunday we leave for a whirlwind trip to visit friends and relatives in Kingwood, Bayview, Lake Jackson, Brazoria, Kingsville, and San Antonio; attend a church conference and birding festival in Corpus Christi; chill out in Choke Canyon State Park; and do an Astronomy Workshop at U Bar U near Kerrville.
Thank you for all of your positive thoughts and prayers for me during my cancer journey. It is not over by any means. I will have oncology check-ups periodically for several years. I continue to hear and read stories of the changed “normal” lifestyle of cancer survivorship, which includes an anticancer diet and regular exercise. This is my last health update, however, unless there is a significant change in my health to report.
Love, Jane
Health Update #26, 10/9/2013
Dear Friends,
I am doing well. I just thought that I would give you an update, since I have passed my one year anniversary (9/27) of the completion of my chemotherapy treatment. I have been seeing the oncologist every three months this 1st year. My blood counts are still a little low, and a bone scan showed that I have osteopenia. I am still following my anticancer diet and am now focusing on getting more protein and calcium.
I am still walking (more vigorously now) and riding my recumbent bike and wear a pulse monitor while walking. I either walk the neighborhood with Paul or ride the bike about 5 times a week. I am nearly back up to walking 2 miles in 30 minutes, about the same rate and distance we were walking before my surgery. On October 5th we walked the 5K (3.25 miles) Livestrong race taking a little over an hour. I have also gotten back to yoga twice a week, do a weight machine circuit at the Y twice a week, and attend a weekly meditation group.
In August I discontinued the Neuropathy Support Formula. It seemed like it had helped a little, so I did not ask for a refund, but I did not think it had helped enough to continue the expense. I decided to just take vitamins B-6 and B-12 (major NSF ingredients) and try some other methods to address the neuropathy. Last week I had a foot and hand massage session and a visualization relaxation session with a message therapist. It was very pleasant and relaxing. And I had a hypnosis session with an oncology massage therapist and hypnotist, which was pleasant and relaxing as well. Both therapists taught me how to help myself with these techniques.
We have been fortunate to have traveled and visited with family a good bit since my last update. Soon after the February trip to the Galveston Bay area, Corpus, and the Hill Country, we visited my sister Lillian in Louisiana, made a trip to Big Bend with friends in April, and made a quick trip to Denver to see our grandchild Eleanor in a play in May. We had a nice visit from Karen and family and Mary Jane and Ian, before, during, and after the Memorial Day Weekend… family reunion. During the summer, we spent a month in Bedford, VA, with my sister Louise to be supportive during her husband Alan’s radiation treatment and then visited Mary Jane in Des Moines and Karen in Denver. After one day at home, we went to the Hummingbird Celebration Festival in Rockport with friends. Now we are in Waco for about six weeks, but are about to head to Des Moines again for Ian’s 1st birthday, and in December we’ll go to Denver for Derrick’s 13th birthday and Christmas.
So what is up for 2014? I will be seeing the oncologist every 4 months for the next year. We have a trip to Belize organized by the Audubon Society in March, and our biggest news is that we will be selling our house and preparing to move to Denver to live with Karen and family by spring 2015. We are looking forward to spending more time with our children and grandchildren, but we will miss our many Waco friends and will be further away from our family members in Texas and Louisiana.
I am so glad that I have been feeling well and have been able to enjoy all of this activity. Thank you again for your love and support.
That’s about it for now. Happy Holidays in case I don’t get another update out until next year.
Much love, Jane
Health Update #27, 2/13/2014
Dear Friends and Relatives,
Happy Valentine’s Day (tomorrow)!!!
And Happy One Year Anniversary of my last radiation treatment (TODAY)!!!
I am feeling good and continuing naps, walking, weights, yoga, and healthy diet. I have managed to avoid getting colds or flu this season. And at my November oncologist visit, my blood work, CT scan and tumor markers were all OK and stable. YEAH!!!
I am successfully dealing with a few cancer and medication side-effect related issues that I am experiencing: insomnia, dry mouth, damaged sweat glands, and tingling finger and elbow pain. I have used a variety of resources in addition to doctors and nurses: a Livestrong Web site article, a Google search, my pharmacist, my hypnosis CD, and friends and relatives.
It helps to find out why something is happening even if you can’t do anything about it. A LiveStrong Web site article said, “Radiation can affect the sweat glands, causing them to stop working and making temperature control difficult.” That was exactly what I was experiencing and it made sense to me, so I stopped worrying about it.
When my doctors did not know the cause of my stinging sweat (ruling out a thyroid issue with a test), I searched Google and found that it could be caused by the acid toxins that are being sweated out. So, I decided to concentrate on drinking more water to dilute the sweat and be glad that the toxins are getting out.
When I was unable to rest during my nap because of tingling finger and elbow pain (an ulnar nerve issue), I made special pillows for my arms on recommendation from the hand doctor. That helped but not enough. So I tried listening to my hypnosis CD when taking a nap and began practicing the exercises at other times, and that worked. I have also been able to cut back on sleep medication a little, which has helped lessen the dry mouth issue (which I am controlling with Biotene). I am so glad that I did not have to increase my medications to take care of the pain issue.
In October/November, we visited Mary Jane and family in Des Moines and celebrated Ian’s 1st birthday, and in December we visited Karen and family in Denver for a couple of weeks for Derrick’s 13th birthday and Christmas. While in Denver we scoped out our new quarters, found a well recommended oncologist and primary care physician, and a well-equipped recreation center. Our daughter Karen was very helpful in these pursuits.
We are looking forward to a birding trip to Belize in March and the move to Denver in June. We are busy de-cluttering and hope to go to Iowa to take a load of stuff and attend Paul’s HS Reunion in Kemah before we have a…Family Reunion at our house in May.
Throughout my journey, Paul is my constant companion and support. And I am grateful knowing that I have your continued thoughts and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #28, 7/27/2014
Dear Friends and Family,
Our March 2014 trip to Belize was wonderful. We have said our goodbyes to family and friends in Waco and Texas, and we are pretty well settled in to Denver now.
I am continuing to maintain a healthy diet, exercise, yoga, and take naps. I only weight 127 lbs., however, which concerns my new oncologist, so she has referred me to a dietician.
My chemotherapy port has now been removed. Yeah!!! It was done by a nurse practitioner with a local anesthetic. She was not familiar with the type of port that I had, which was a bit more difficult to remove than she expected, so she called in a doctor to help. The local anesthetic successfully prevented pain, and the wound is healing well, however. After this experience, I would recommend general anesthesia with a doctor for the procedure.
Now that the port has been removed, I will not have to have it flushed every 6 weeks. I will be having oncology appointments every 6 months.
I just got notice that I won an appeal from my insurance company about payment for a November 21, 2013 thyroid test. So, my persistence on this issue paid off.
We are now looking forward to some out of town visiting with family and friends.
I hope all is well with all of you. Let us hear from you.
Love, Jane
Initial E-mail to Sisters Upon Diagnosis, 4/10/2012
It has been determined through a biopsy that I have a cancer in my right breast. I am scheduled to have a mastectomy on Monday, so we have canceled our plans to go to the Star Party next week. It should not affect the family reunion. I was given the option of doing chemo along with a partial mastectomy, but the full mastectomy was recommended in my case. The doctor was optimistic that the surgery will take care of it completely. Paul has been very supportive. The doctor said we could wait for another week and attend the Star Party; Paul said "Let’s do it now."
Health Update #1, 4/21/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
I have seen a second surgeon for a second opinion, and he has recommended that I have a mastectomy as well, so that is the option that I plan to take. I am being referred to an oncologist whom I will probably be able to see next week. He will determine whether I need chemotherapy before the surgery, and surgery will be scheduled. So right now, I am in a waiting pattern and doing what I can to educate myself about breast cancer and get ready for the surgery. Paul has been very supportive, attending doctor appointments with me and getting back to walking with me on a regular basis. He is even considering eating more vegetables with me. And I have gotten back to meditating and yoga.
I obtained a Personal Health Manager kit from the local American Cancer Society, looked up information on the internet, and have received a researched analysis of my diagnosis, with treatment and genetic testing options from my son-in-law, Brian. I have also talked to several cancer survivors and heard their stories and gotten advice. I have gotten consultation on juicing and borrowed a juicer in order to increase my vegetable and fruit intake. Today, I bought a bunch or organic vegetables and fruit at the grocery store and will try them out on juicing.
Many thanks to you for your words of concern and encouragement. I feel very supported.
Love, Jane
Health Update #2, 4/23/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
I have an appointment with oncologist…at 9:00 am on Monday, April 30. I won't know any more about the treat-ment plan until then. I am still in a learning and waiting mode and am feeling fine. I have made a dent in the large amount of fresh vegetables and fruit that I bought last week. I feel very supported by well wishes, prayers, offers of help, and sharing experiences from friends and family.
Thank you all, Jane
Health Update #3, 4/30/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
I saw the oncologist this morning; he consulted with the surgeon, and I now have a treatment plan. I will have a mastectomy in a couple of weeks and then start chemotherapy in about a month after that. The chemotherapy will last for about 4 1/2 to 5 months. My daughters Mary Jane and Karen will be coming to be with me and help for a few days during and after the surgery. We are glad to get something going. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #4, 5/2/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
Surgery is scheduled for Tuesday, May 15th at…Hospital in Waco. I will go in at 6:00 am and have surgery at 8:00 am. I will be spending Tuesday night in the hospital. Mary Jane [my younger daughter] will be arriving the weekend before the surgery to help me prepare for it, and Karen [my older daughter] will make every effort to arrive the night before. A month after the surgery, I will start chemotherapy. I have started attending a cancer support group. The first session was on nutrition. A knowledgeable dietician answered questions including some of mine. She told me how much protein I will need to consume per day on a regular basis as well as during chemotherapy, so I am focusing on building up my protein reserve.
On recommendation from the book Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster, I have ordered a relaxation CD to get really relaxed and feeling positive about the surgery, and my surgeon is going to say positive statements during the surgery. I am already feeling the positive energy from all of your emails, cards, and calls.
Love, Jane
Health Update #5, 5/9/2012
Dear Family and Friends,
I received the Heal Faster relaxation CD and have been using it twice a day as recommended, and it is working. I have learned enough of it to relax myself during the bone scan that I had yesterday. In the last couple of days, I have also had a CT scan and an echo-cardiogram. I am on the last stretch now.
I had a good visit with my surgeon, today in which he answered a long list of questions. He said the surgery would last about 1 1/2 hours, with the possibility of lasting another 3/4 hours if lymph nodes are involved. I will be listening to some of my mother's favorite peaceful piano pieces on a CD player during the operation. I have also talked with my anesthesiologist. She has agreed to say the positive statements during the surgery. Having a woman doctor reminds me of my mother, who was an anesthesiologist. Pre-op will start at 8:00 am, and the operation will start at 8:30 am.
Please send me peace, tranquility and love during the half hour before the operation. Thank you again for all of your continued positive energy.
Love, Jane
Health Update #6, 5/15/2012
All:
This update comes to you from the hospital, Tuesday, May 15 at 7:45 p.m. Paul is typing this for me. I had surgery this morning at 8:30 a.m., and the report from the surgeon was the best result we had hoped for—the tumor was completely removed with clear margins, and there was no lymph node involvement. I will be spending the night here and going back home tomorrow. I have been resting comfortably all afternoon, and we have been very pleased with all the services and personnel here….
Paul, Karen, and Mary Jane, along with three dear friends, anxiously awaited the 2 hour and 15 minute procedure and were happily relieved at the report.
I am so grateful for all the love, support, thoughts, and prayers that were sent my way—they made a big difference for me.
Love, Jane
Health Update #7, 5/18/2012
Dear Family and Friends,
Just wanted to let you know that I am recovering well from surgery. I came home Wednesday about noon. Each day I feel stronger and have less need for pain control. At my follow-up appointment with my surgeon on May 24th, I should find out when chemotherapy is scheduled. It may be as soon as the following week. So between now and then I will be learning how best to get through chemotherapy with The Chemotherapy Survival Guide. (Thanks to Paige for sending me this book.) I have a lapboard that allows me to use my computer in an easy chair. And I have my wonderful daughters Karen and Mary Jane here to visit and help with cooking and housework. I am also enjoying having my grandchild Derrick here and am looking forward to the arrival of my other grandchild Eleanor on Monday.
Thank you all again for your messages of love and support.
Love, Jane
Health Update #8, 5/25/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
As I write this I am listening to the lovely sound of my grandchild Eleanor singing while playing the piano. My sisters Lillian and Louise and niece Carol and her son Henry will be arriving for a week end visit this afternoon. My sister Sally, her daughter Emily, and her children will be arriving tomorrow.
I've had a little glitch with the healing of my surgery wound. I have developed a hematoma and have a follow up appointment with my surgeon on June 4 to see if the wound has drained enough. If not, I will have minor surgery to drain it.
I finally have a chemotherapy plan, and I have agreed to participate in an anti-nausea drug clinical trial. I will start the chemo on June 19 with a follow-up shot on June 20. I will be getting the two-hour treatment and the shot every two weeks for eight cycles. The purpose of the treatment is to eliminate any microscopic cancer cells that may be hanging around in the rest of my body. My CT scan detected that I have some small (< 1/2 cm) nodules in my lung that are not likely to be, but could be, cancerous. The oncologist said that it is unusual to have lung involvement with triple negative cancer if the lymph nodes are not involved. However, he needs to watch for it. So I will have a follow-up chest CT scan on June 18 before starting the chemotherapy.
I have plenty of time to get ready for chemo. I have already tried on free wigs at the American Cancer Society. I found one that I like, but they are going to try to find a larger size for my big head. I will also be getting a shorter hair cut before the chemo, as is recommended. And I will be attending a Look Good ... Feel Good class at the American Cancer Society on June 11 to get some pointers about make-up, wigs, and other hair coverings.
Continue to keep me in your thoughts.
Love, Jane
(NOTE: Inadvertently, there is no #9)
Health Update #10, 6/5/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
We had a wonderful 50th Anniversary Party on Saturday…. I am soooo! appreciative of the help that Karen and Mary Jane provided me during the last three and 1/2 weeks. Thanks to them, I have a clean house, groceries, and frozen food stocked up for a while, and I was able to have two wonderful supportive events with family and friends over the last two weekends.
Yesterday my surgeon said I am healing well. I have another appointment with him next Monday at which he plans to remove the drain and staples. Then I can start the exercises that will help me to regain range of motion in my right arm. I am really looking forward to that.
Today, I attended a cancer support group at my oncology clinic where I had a helpful visit with another participant about wigs. Afterwards, I met with a nurse to sign up to participate in a clinical study of a new anti-nausea drug. It will require some extra Dr. visits on the sixth day of chemo, so my chemo start date is moved to June 20th, and I will have a Dr. visit on June 25th. Today as a prerequisite to starting the clinical trial they gave me a neurological test and an EKG, and they drew blood for tests.
Today I drove the car for the first time since my mastectomy. It seems to have gone well. I drove to the support group and then to see the transit of Venus, which the Central Texas Astronomy Society organized and at which Paul had his telescope set up. It is nice not to be homebound, but I am still pretty cautious about it.
Thank you again for all of your positive thoughts, energy and prayers. I continue to feel wrapped in love.
Love, Jane
Health Update #11, 6/12/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
It looks like I am going to be taking the full four weeks that was allowed for me to heal from surgery before chemo. My drain and staples were removed on Monday, but the area still needs to heal more. Both my oncologist and my surgeon will be checking me out again before I start chemo June 20.
Today I found out from my GP doctor that my LDL cholesterol was lower than it was back in December when he told me to try to reduce it by diet. Yeah! It is still not low enough, but I feel better about eating eggs to get my protein up.
I've been doing some last minute preparations to get ready for chemo. Last night my friend Tracey and I attended the Look Good...Feel Good class provided by the American Cancer Society to teach cancer patients how to take care of their skin during chemotherapy. We got some good pointers about skin care and makeup and a supply of makeup. There were six of us at different stages in our journey. Those who were further along said they wore hats and scarves more often than wigs because they were cooler and more comfortable. Today, I stopped by a cancer gift shop to look for scarves and hats.
I really appreciate my church family and friends who have brought us meals. Paul has been wonderful in accompanying me to doctor appointments, washing clothes and dishes, and even cleaning house. He will be going to chemotherapy with me next week.
Thanks again to all of you who are keeping me in your thoughts and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #12, 6/18/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
Both my surgeon and oncologist have given me the go ahead for chemotherapy. So I am on for June 20th.
I had a good time at the music circle at church on Saturday and played the banjo. That is one the things that I have been visualizing when listening to my meditation tape. So now I am hopeful that my visualization of a peaceful chemotherapy session will be realized also.
My surgeon cleared me for doing range of motion arm exercises today and for participating in the Waco Family Y Livestrong exercise program that starts July 5th. So, today I did exercises, and I am going to try going to yoga on Wednesday after chemotherapy— if I get through in time.
Friends have signed up to bring meals this week, and my sister Lillian is coming for a helpful visit next week. So I am in good shape for the first round of chemo.
Thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers that continue to wrap me in love.
Jane
Health Update #13, 6/20/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
Just a quickie. So far so good. Chemotherapy was peaceful today, and I don't have any side effects yet. I will not be able to participate in the clinical trial, however, due to a malfunction of the EKG machine.
Thank you for all your positive thoughts and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #14, 6/25/12
Dear Friends and Family,
Looks like I have made it through the first chemo phase with relatively minor side effects. The most bothersome have been insomnia and constipation. But since they are mostly related to medications I won't need for now, I shouldn’t be bothered by them for a while. Many thanks to my friends who brought delicious healthy meals on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
This morning I feel great, and yesterday was a very good day. I did not take any anti-nausea medicine; kept water and saltine crackers handy to snack on throughout the day; and made sure to drink the variety and amount of liquids recommended by my Cancer Survival Guide book. I have been doing my range of motion exercises twice a day since last Thursday (seeing progress), and Paul and I have been walking a mile every evening.
I enjoyed seeing everyone at church yesterday and after church had a nice visit with a friend. And last night I felt good enough to work on the New Zealand trip presentation I am scheduled to give to the Audubon Society in the fall.
The highlight of the week was seeing a black swallowtail butterfly that had newly emerged from its chrysalis in my butterfly garden. Paul noticed when it began to fly and ran to get me so I could see it.
I am looking forward to Lillian coming tomorrow for a week and Mary Jane coming on the week end.
Keep those positive thoughts and prayers coming.
Love, Jane
P.S. Here is a picture of me during chemo adorned with the quilt that dear friend Lori made for me. (NOTE: See picture in Chapter 8)
Health Update #15, 7/6/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
My second chemo session went very well yesterday with a friend (Marty) accompanying me, as Paul was not available. It gave me a chance to have a nice visit and have a helper when needed. I think I have all of my side effects under control now, and the doctor says that they should NOT increase with future treatments, except that fatigue will increase. I have set my cell phone to remind me to drink fluids every hour, so that keeps me hopping.
I had very nice visits with Lillian and Mary Jane last week. Lillian kept me supplied with nutritious food and went with me to chair yoga class and centering meditation. Mary Jane pampered me by cutting my hair and giving me (and Lillian) manicures. We now have Mary Jane's dog Cocoa for a visit …, while Mary Jane is putting her house on the market.
This week on Monday I went to my regular yoga class and it went very well. On Tuesday, I noticed a few head hairs coming out, so Paul shaved my head for me. At first it was a bit of a shock, but I am getting used to it. Below are pictures of "Before" (with Mary Jane's hair cut), "After" ("a naturale') and "In Wig". Last night I attended my first LiveStrong exercise class at the Waco Family Y—a get acquainted session with a pot luck meal and ice-breakers. I met some nice people who are at various stages of cancer and felt relatively fortunate. I wore my wig for the first time and got several mice complements on it…. (Note: See pictures in Chapter 9)
I appreciate the meals that are being provided by friends, and your thoughts and prayers. They are really keeping my spirits up.
Love, Jane
Health Update #16, 7/23/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
I had my third chemo session last Thursday, sitting next to my friend and fellow church member Tracey, who is receiving chemo for lymphoma. It was nice to be able to visit with her during the 2-3 hour procedure.
Now that I have had three treatments, I am getting to know what to expect. So far, I feel all right on the treatment day and most of the day after. Then I feel nauseated, fatigued, dry-mouthed, and insomnious for 2 or 3 days, and then I feel pretty good again until after the next treatment. I enjoyed having Mary Jane’s companionship this weekend as I rested. Even with this schedule of events, I have not missed a LiveStrong exercise session at the Waco Family Y, and I have missed only a few of my daily range of motion exercises at home. I am also keeping up yoga.
One concern is that my platelet count is having a hard time recovering from the chemotherapy in time for the next treatment. It has barely made it to the acceptable level the last two times. I could use some positive energy and thoughts toward a sufficient platelet count on August 2, so that treatment is not delayed.
I am looking forward to seeing many of the members of my wonderful family again this weekend for Mary Jane’s baby shower. I should be feeling great and be able to enjoy the visit.
I continue to be uplifted by your thoughts and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #17, 8/3/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
Hoorah! My platelets were at a high enough level, and I was able to have my treatment yesterday. They were actually higher than they were for my last treatment. I think it must have had to do with a combination of your positive energy and prayers, the wonderful family reunion weekend of Mary Jane’s shower, my visualizations and affirmations, and the collard greens, broccoli, poached eggs, tuna fish, and salmon I ate during build up phase. I am now taking an antibiotic for a staph infection, and I am told that it might affect my platelet level, so I will have another platelets issue for my next treatment on August 16.
Thank you to my friends for continuing to bring delicious food. And keep those positive thoughts, prayers, and energy coming my way.
Below is a picture taken during the weekend with family.
Love, Jane
Health Update #18, 8/20/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
The highlights for me since my last update include having a lovely evening playing music with husband Paul and friends at Reynolds Creek Park amphitheater and making a quick trip to Dallas for a delightful baby shower for daughter Mary Jane, given by her church friends. Below is a picture from the shower. I continue to enjoy sharing the LiveStrong exercise program at the Waco Family Y with a group of fellow survivors.
Hooray again for my platelets. I barely had enough platelets to have my chemotherapy on schedule last Thursday. It has taken two 10-day rounds of antibiotic, but I think that the staph infection will be cured when I am through with the 2nd round.
I have started a different chemotherapy drug and am taking steroid pills and Tylenol to control new side effects—tingling toes and muscle and joint pains. I am also experiencing fatigue, as I expected. So I appreciate your continue positive energy and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #19, 9/1/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
The platelets have made a great come back, so I easily met the criteria for having my chemo. Six down and two to go. My next treatment will be on Friday, Sept. 14th due to my doctor’s busy schedule after his vacation. Then it will be back to Thursday, Sept. 27th for my last chemo. I am feeling great right now. It is amazing what steroids can do for you. I will have to see if the fatigue sets in after my three days of steroids. The infection started coming back, and I jumped on it quickly, so I am on an antibiotic again, and the infection is fading again. This ought to take care of it for good, as I will be taking it for 27 days.
Last night at the LiveStrong program at the Y, I saw a video of a great presentation given by a dietician to an Austin LiveStrong group. It was based on a scientific World Cancer Research Report, giving information about how foods that you eat encourage or inhibit cancer cell growth, causing reoccurrence. Since I am about to come to the end of my chemo treatments, I am now beginning to focus on how to prevent reoccurrence. The Triple Negative type of cancer that I have is aggressive and tends to reoccur more frequently than other types. I am also looking forward to reading the book Anticancer, which gives much of this same information I am told.
I am proud that I have made myself a big pot of kale soup and frozen it in serving size portions for use. Also, I learned how to buy and cook salmon and cooked it for myself last week. That was a first.
Anyway, this is where I am right now--still appreciating all of the positive energy, prayers, and thoughts—and my helpful husband and friends.
Love, Jane
Health Update #20, 9/18/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
I had another good platelet count for my treatment (7th of 8) last Friday, and the doctor said that I was doing very well.
I went to the Waco Farmers Market on Saturday to get grass-fed beef, cage free chicken, and organic eggs. And I went early enough to participate in the yoga on the Lawn there. However, I lost my balance and sprained my ankle during the yoga. So I was laid up icing and elevating my ankle for three days. I stayed home from church and the LiveStrong class on Sunday and yoga on Monday, and I will likely not be healed for about a week. However, I have had time to read Anticancer: a New Way of Life by David Servan-Schreiber, MD, PhD. It is a great book—very well written and full of great information about what to do to prevent reoccurrence of cancer. It is autobiographical, written by a cancer survivor, with recommendations regarding diet, exercise, and mind-body techniques which are supported by scientific research. It also has recommendations regarding other household products, such as cleansers and makeup that should and shouldn't be used. So now, I am looking into changing some products I have been using.
I am still elevating my ankle and using crutches, so Paul is having to do extra duty—fetching things for me and learning how to use the microwave to heat up TV dinners.
I am looking forward to the LiveStrong celebration pot luck this Thursday, which will be the last session except for an assessment next Sunday. I really hope that my ankle is healed by Oct. 6th for the LiveStrong 5K which I have entered with Paul.
I am also looking forward to a visit from daughter Mary Jane next week, her last visit to Waco before moving to Des Moines. Baby Ian is due Nov. 10, and we hope to be there for the grand occasion. My last chemotherapy treatment will be Thursday, September 27th.
Many thanks again for your continued prayers, positive thoughts, and help that uplift me.
Love, Jane
Health Update #21, 10/3/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
We had one last visit from Mary Jane last week before her move to Des Moines. Although she had much to do while here—making long distance arrangements for work to be done on the house she and Ray are buying and sorting out what she wants to take and leave when she goes to Des Moines—she was great company and very attentive to me.
I had my last chemotherapy treatment on schedule last Thursday. During the treatment, I took a little tumble in the bathroom. I did not hurt myself, but pulled the IV loose so that some of the chemo drug leaked into the skin around the port. The nurse immediately reconnected the IV and stopped the leak. She gave me instructions to ice the area four times a day for four days and call if there is pain, redness or swelling, but I did not have to call.
On Sunday at church, I made the attached presentation about the LiveStrong program for cancer survivors at the Y. I am so thankful that I had that program to participate in during my treatment. My sprained ankle is still on the mend, so I don’t think I will be doing much walking on it at the LiveStrong 5K race on Saturday. Paul will be walking, however, and I will be there to be supportive.
As expected, I have had cumulative side effects with this last treatment, but they are under control. I am really looking forward to being chemo free.
I have a chest CT scan on Monday to see if there has been any change in the nodules that were previously noticed on my lungs, and a follow-up visit with my oncologist on Friday the 12th. We plan to leave for Denver on the 15th to visit Karen and Brian and the kids, after which we will go to Des Moines to be with Mary Jane and Ray during Ian’s birth—he’s due Nov. 10.
While reading the Anticancer book, Paul experienced a conversion to the anticancer lifestyle—green tea—YES; Café Vienna and doughnuts—NO—and other changes. So we are making the anticancer lifestyle change together.
Again, thank you for all your prayers, positive energy, help, and support during my journey.
Love, Jane
Health Update #22, 10/15/2012
Dear Friends and Family,
On Friday, I found out that the CT scan reflected that the nodules on my lungs had not changed, which was excellent news, meaning they are not cancer. Yeah! I am very happy to be doing walking exercise and yoga again. The oncologist will continue to monitor my status every three months during the first year after chemotherapy. I do not have to take any follow-up medications; however, I will see a radiologist in December to determine if radiation is recommended to reduce the chance of recurrence.
We are saddened by the death of Paul’s cousin last week. We arrived in the Galveston Bay area this evening and will be attending her funeral on Friday before heading for Denver.
Thank you all for your continued support.
Love, Jane
Health Update #23, 11/8/2012
Dear Family,
After a four-day visit to Bayview to attend the funeral for Paul’s cousin, we had a nice nine-day visit with Karen and family in Denver. We are now in Des Moines, Iowa, with Mary Jane and Ray.
As I left Waco, I was a bit concerned about being away from my doctors so soon after finishing my chemotherapy. I did have some sleepless nights at first due to neuropathy in my hands and feet. However, I was able to get a prescription called in to a Denver pharmacy, which along with Tylenol is taking care of the problem.
When we arrived in Des Moines, Mary Jane and Ray were in transition from their rented apartment to their newly pur-chased home. The day after we arrived, I went with Mary Jane to the hospital to check out her swollen foot. While she was there, they monitored the Ian’s heart rate and decided that he needed to be born the next day. Early the next morning Mary Jane had a C-section with Ray in attendance, after which I spent a relaxing day with them. Meanwhile, Paul was assem-bling baby furniture and moving low priority furniture and boxes, readying the house for their homecoming. He was able to join us for a wonderful long visit the birth day after-noon and evening at the hospital. I was strong enough the following day to help Paul unpack boxes and organize the kitchen. Every-one is home now. Ray has been able to get family medical leave, and Karen and Derrick arrived from Denver last night for a 10-day visit to help, and especially to help Mary Jane get going with breast-feeding.
We anticipate returning to Waco in late November or early December.
Love, Jane
Health Update #23a, 12/6/2012
Dear Family and Friends,
Since my last update we have been on a six week trip, visiting extended family in the Galveston Bay area, our daughter Karen and family in Denver, CO, and our daughter Mary Jane and Ray in Des Moines, Iowa. While in Des Moines, Mary Jane had a healthy baby boy, Ian, and Karen and kids joined us to help for about 10 days. It was a sweet family time.
We arrived home in time for my appointment with a radiol-ogist on Monday, December 3rd. I was referred by my oncolo-gist, who thought I should consider radiation. After discussing it with the radiologist and finding out that it will decrease my chances of recurrence from about 26% to about 13%, we decided to go ahead with it. It will involve 33 treatments which will start about December 16th and go through the end of Jan-uary. They will be 15 minutes each, Monday through Friday excepting Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. It will be targeted to the mastectomy area. The side effects, which will probably not start having an effect until about half way through, will be skin irritation (like a bad sunburn) and fatigue.
The effects of the chemotherapy are wearing off, and I have medication to control that which is left. So I am feeling pretty good right now. Paul and I are walking briskly 30 minutes a day; I am doing some meditation, and cooking and freezing food for my upcoming periods of fatigue. I am still getting the hang of the anticancer diet—learning recipes and ingredients.
I will need your positive thoughts and prayers to help me get through this next bump in the road.
Love, Jane
Health Update #24, 1/12/2013
Dear Friends and Family,
I am well into radiation treatments now—15 down and 18 to go. I do not feel anything during the treatment, and so far the side effects of skin irritation and fatigue have been mild. I put a gooey, soothing ointment on the radiated area twice a day, and I usually take a couple of short naps during the day.
Paul and I are still walking regularly, and I have started taking NIA (sort of like dancing yoga) at the Waco Family Y. It is fun and I can almost keep up with the class. I have had to let up on yoga and NIA temporarily, however, while I recuperate from Jan. 10th cataract surgery.
I am finding that my memory is not as good as it used to be, so it needs exercising. I attended a class held by my friend Cheryl on the benefits of meditation to prevent Alzheimer’s and am now equipped with a meditation CD of a brain exercise I intend to start using. I have also started attending a country western line dancing class at the Y. It is not very strenuous physically, but is exercising my brain and is fun. I miss the international folk dancing I used to do.
Cheryl also introduced me to Janice, an oncology certified massage therapist who has given me three gentle massages and who introduced me to Juice+, a whole foods supplement to increase my fruit and vegetable intake.
My first quarterly (post-chemo) oncology follow-up visit was Friday, Jan. 11. The doctor said I am doing well overall, but my platelet, WBC, and protein levels are below normal. So, I am adding poached eggs and salmon back into my diet. A lingering side effect from the chemotherapy is neuropathy in my hands and feet, which could be permanent. I am focusing my meditation on relieving this symptom.
After my radiation treatments are completed, I am looking forward to going to the Southwest UU Women’s Conference in Corpus Christi and afterward doing some birding with my improved vision.
Thank you for your continued support, positive thoughts and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #25, 2/14/2013
Dear Friends and Family,
Hurrah!!! My last radiation treatment was yesterday (Wednesday). My skin continued to hold up well. The fatigue continued to be mild, but I did start slowing down on my walking and I am resting more often for short periods during the day. I have not gotten back to NIA or yoga.
My eye has almost healed from cataract surgery, and I have some improvement in my vision, but I am looking forward to getting a new lens for which I will get a prescription on March 4th.
My neuropathy is still the same, but today I started taking a Vitamin B supplement, Neuropathy Support Formula, that has a money back guarantee of significant improvement in four months. So it seems like it is worth a try.
My sister Lillian visited last week and we enjoyed sharing our dietary skills and knowledge.
Sunday we leave for a whirlwind trip to visit friends and relatives in Kingwood, Bayview, Lake Jackson, Brazoria, Kingsville, and San Antonio; attend a church conference and birding festival in Corpus Christi; chill out in Choke Canyon State Park; and do an Astronomy Workshop at U Bar U near Kerrville.
Thank you for all of your positive thoughts and prayers for me during my cancer journey. It is not over by any means. I will have oncology check-ups periodically for several years. I continue to hear and read stories of the changed “normal” lifestyle of cancer survivorship, which includes an anticancer diet and regular exercise. This is my last health update, however, unless there is a significant change in my health to report.
Love, Jane
Health Update #26, 10/9/2013
Dear Friends,
I am doing well. I just thought that I would give you an update, since I have passed my one year anniversary (9/27) of the completion of my chemotherapy treatment. I have been seeing the oncologist every three months this 1st year. My blood counts are still a little low, and a bone scan showed that I have osteopenia. I am still following my anticancer diet and am now focusing on getting more protein and calcium.
I am still walking (more vigorously now) and riding my recumbent bike and wear a pulse monitor while walking. I either walk the neighborhood with Paul or ride the bike about 5 times a week. I am nearly back up to walking 2 miles in 30 minutes, about the same rate and distance we were walking before my surgery. On October 5th we walked the 5K (3.25 miles) Livestrong race taking a little over an hour. I have also gotten back to yoga twice a week, do a weight machine circuit at the Y twice a week, and attend a weekly meditation group.
In August I discontinued the Neuropathy Support Formula. It seemed like it had helped a little, so I did not ask for a refund, but I did not think it had helped enough to continue the expense. I decided to just take vitamins B-6 and B-12 (major NSF ingredients) and try some other methods to address the neuropathy. Last week I had a foot and hand massage session and a visualization relaxation session with a message therapist. It was very pleasant and relaxing. And I had a hypnosis session with an oncology massage therapist and hypnotist, which was pleasant and relaxing as well. Both therapists taught me how to help myself with these techniques.
We have been fortunate to have traveled and visited with family a good bit since my last update. Soon after the February trip to the Galveston Bay area, Corpus, and the Hill Country, we visited my sister Lillian in Louisiana, made a trip to Big Bend with friends in April, and made a quick trip to Denver to see our grandchild Eleanor in a play in May. We had a nice visit from Karen and family and Mary Jane and Ian, before, during, and after the Memorial Day Weekend… family reunion. During the summer, we spent a month in Bedford, VA, with my sister Louise to be supportive during her husband Alan’s radiation treatment and then visited Mary Jane in Des Moines and Karen in Denver. After one day at home, we went to the Hummingbird Celebration Festival in Rockport with friends. Now we are in Waco for about six weeks, but are about to head to Des Moines again for Ian’s 1st birthday, and in December we’ll go to Denver for Derrick’s 13th birthday and Christmas.
So what is up for 2014? I will be seeing the oncologist every 4 months for the next year. We have a trip to Belize organized by the Audubon Society in March, and our biggest news is that we will be selling our house and preparing to move to Denver to live with Karen and family by spring 2015. We are looking forward to spending more time with our children and grandchildren, but we will miss our many Waco friends and will be further away from our family members in Texas and Louisiana.
I am so glad that I have been feeling well and have been able to enjoy all of this activity. Thank you again for your love and support.
That’s about it for now. Happy Holidays in case I don’t get another update out until next year.
Much love, Jane
Health Update #27, 2/13/2014
Dear Friends and Relatives,
Happy Valentine’s Day (tomorrow)!!!
And Happy One Year Anniversary of my last radiation treatment (TODAY)!!!
I am feeling good and continuing naps, walking, weights, yoga, and healthy diet. I have managed to avoid getting colds or flu this season. And at my November oncologist visit, my blood work, CT scan and tumor markers were all OK and stable. YEAH!!!
I am successfully dealing with a few cancer and medication side-effect related issues that I am experiencing: insomnia, dry mouth, damaged sweat glands, and tingling finger and elbow pain. I have used a variety of resources in addition to doctors and nurses: a Livestrong Web site article, a Google search, my pharmacist, my hypnosis CD, and friends and relatives.
It helps to find out why something is happening even if you can’t do anything about it. A LiveStrong Web site article said, “Radiation can affect the sweat glands, causing them to stop working and making temperature control difficult.” That was exactly what I was experiencing and it made sense to me, so I stopped worrying about it.
When my doctors did not know the cause of my stinging sweat (ruling out a thyroid issue with a test), I searched Google and found that it could be caused by the acid toxins that are being sweated out. So, I decided to concentrate on drinking more water to dilute the sweat and be glad that the toxins are getting out.
When I was unable to rest during my nap because of tingling finger and elbow pain (an ulnar nerve issue), I made special pillows for my arms on recommendation from the hand doctor. That helped but not enough. So I tried listening to my hypnosis CD when taking a nap and began practicing the exercises at other times, and that worked. I have also been able to cut back on sleep medication a little, which has helped lessen the dry mouth issue (which I am controlling with Biotene). I am so glad that I did not have to increase my medications to take care of the pain issue.
In October/November, we visited Mary Jane and family in Des Moines and celebrated Ian’s 1st birthday, and in December we visited Karen and family in Denver for a couple of weeks for Derrick’s 13th birthday and Christmas. While in Denver we scoped out our new quarters, found a well recommended oncologist and primary care physician, and a well-equipped recreation center. Our daughter Karen was very helpful in these pursuits.
We are looking forward to a birding trip to Belize in March and the move to Denver in June. We are busy de-cluttering and hope to go to Iowa to take a load of stuff and attend Paul’s HS Reunion in Kemah before we have a…Family Reunion at our house in May.
Throughout my journey, Paul is my constant companion and support. And I am grateful knowing that I have your continued thoughts and prayers.
Love, Jane
Health Update #28, 7/27/2014
Dear Friends and Family,
Our March 2014 trip to Belize was wonderful. We have said our goodbyes to family and friends in Waco and Texas, and we are pretty well settled in to Denver now.
I am continuing to maintain a healthy diet, exercise, yoga, and take naps. I only weight 127 lbs., however, which concerns my new oncologist, so she has referred me to a dietician.
My chemotherapy port has now been removed. Yeah!!! It was done by a nurse practitioner with a local anesthetic. She was not familiar with the type of port that I had, which was a bit more difficult to remove than she expected, so she called in a doctor to help. The local anesthetic successfully prevented pain, and the wound is healing well, however. After this experience, I would recommend general anesthesia with a doctor for the procedure.
Now that the port has been removed, I will not have to have it flushed every 6 weeks. I will be having oncology appointments every 6 months.
I just got notice that I won an appeal from my insurance company about payment for a November 21, 2013 thyroid test. So, my persistence on this issue paid off.
We are now looking forward to some out of town visiting with family and friends.
I hope all is well with all of you. Let us hear from you.
Love, Jane
