Sara Bareilles, Cyndi Lauper, Hoda Kotb’s ‘Truly Brave’ Music Video | TODAY

Monday, November 3, 2014

Today I happened upon this beautiful piece.  We all know that October was Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I mean really, how can you miss it?  Pink is everywhere!  But did you know that it is also National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month?  I happened upon this emotionally charged video made with the encouragement of breast cancer survivor Hoda Kotb and the talents of Sara Bareilles and Cyndi Lauper. It is their goal to raise awareness and funding for childhood cancers. Grab a tissue and sit a spell.

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Another six month oncology follow-up is in the books! It began with the usual assessment of vital signs, review of medications, and a brief discussion about "minnie paws". Warning signs of  recurrent cancer and a thorough inspection of both breasts and surrounding lymph nodes was completed.  My nurse practitioner explained that because my cancer was DCIS stage zero there is only a rare chance that it would ever recur.  We did revisit my family history of breast, colon, and skin cancers and I made note of when my screening colonoscopy and MRI are due.

I remember one of my doctors briefly touching on the debate about DCIS when I was diagnosed. My own research at the time uncovered the controversy. Some argue that DCIS is merely an abnormal pathology result that indicates cell mutations or changes which are not yet malignant therefore not cancerous. Others label it a malignancy stage zero. My doctors had made it very clear they considered it a malignancy as did my pathology reports. My care team was worried it had spread due to the size indicated on my MRI and the fact that there were no abnormalities on the prior mammogram.  My cells had not only changed rapidly but had spread throughout the duct. They all  three, oncology, general surgeon, and plastic surgeon, suggested I opt for aggressive treatment by having both breasts removed. Chemotherapy was not suggested because there was no cancer detected in the biopsied lymph nodes. Surgery was considered my cure.

Because DCIS stage zero had just been addressed I decided now was a great time to inquire about the debate.  My NP explained that this institution follows the federal guidelines and standards for the treatment of DCIS which considers it a cancer.  Although many times DCIS does not spread outside the duct system it certainly can. She went on to explain that cancer is all about mutating cells and that DCIS, when biopsied, shows changing cells, therefore it is considered a cancer but stage zero. My biopsy was listed as a carcinoma with atypical hyperplasia /changing cells in nearly all parts of the surrounding tissues. I told her that my surgeon was quite concerned about the size of the area viewed on my mammogram as well as the measurements from my MRI.  He had let me know before surgery that metastases were very possible. Therefore I had absolutely no qualms with aggressive measures involving bilateral mastectomy. Besides, in my own mind I had always said if I was ever diagnosed I would not settle for a lumpectomy or single mastectomy. Aggressive treatment was the only treatment for me!

Upon leaving the exam room I was flooded with emotions. I felt immensely blessed to have a clean bill of health and hopefully a long life ahead. However the survivor guilt hit hard and I fought back  tears as I set up my next appointment. I scanned the waiting room and noted wigs and turbans, those with support systems present and those without. I headed to the restroom to compose myself and once out the door I sat in my car and prayed for those still on their journeys. I thanked God for getting me to the place I am today. Next I whispered one more prayer for a friend who was newly diagnosed and was in surgery at that very moment. It's amazing how a very positive appointment can end up making one feel completely drained!

As October winds down and the pink starts to fade please take a moment to review your health history.  Look up when your last physical occurred and take measures to schedule scans and testing that is appropriate for your age and gender.  We can never be too careful.  Early detection of all kinds saves lives!!!

Tuesday, October 7, 2014

One week into Breast Cancer Awareness month and pink is everywhere!  I love how a simple color raises awareness in young and old alike. Today I am sharing a poem written by my teenage neighbor. Chase has graciously given me permission to post this work which he wrote about a year ago. Very sad but very touching.  Thank you Chase for allowing me to post this!

                                                              Breast Cancer

                                                                 Chase Snethen

                                                   As that pink ribbon lay upon her tomb,

                                                     everyone gathered to pray in gloom.

                                                      Once a woman so strong and free,

                                                         was so abruptly taken from me.

                                                   The tears they flowed down to my chin,

                                                    her once little buddy, I was her only kin.

                                                       This beautiful woman who I adore,

                                                was ripped from me with breast cancer , stage 4.

                                                   The news came to me through the phone,

                                                  from deep down inside I could feel a groan.

                                                      Her face was wet with all her tears,

                                                      as she came to realize all her fears.

                                                   This bad dream had now come to life,

                                                    as her husband had lost his lovely wife.

                                                   A poor young child now with no mother,

                                                      to them, there will never be another.

           

Sunday, September 28, 2014

What a beautiful day to share a story about a young woman I met while on my journey.  Leanna and I were sitting in the office of our plastic surgeon, just the two of us.  She struck up conversation and we soon discovered we had both undergone reconstruction, but for completely different reasons. She spoke very frankly and educated me on women known as young "previvors". Our conversation came to an abrupt end as we were each called to exam rooms.  Upon leaving the office I heard someone call out "hey wait!'  I turned around and it was Leanna wanting to finish sharing her story.  Since then we have remained in contact via Facebook and she has graciously given me permission to share her story with all of you.

Previvors are women who are found to carry genes linked to breast and ovarian cancer who decide to prevent female cancers by taking aggressive measures such as removing all their female organs. By doing this they do not have to become survivors of female cancers, they "previve." Leanna refers to PBM-prophylactic bilateral mastectomy. She also refers to her new "foobs" or fake boobs! The term seroma refers to a collection of fluid under the skin that often develops after surgery.  Please take a moment to read her story to learn more.

Young Previvors

• Leanna

I am 33 years old, and I am a carrier of the BRCA2 genetic mutation.  My Previvor journey started when my sister’s routine hysterectomy revealed that she had ovarian cancer.   At her doctor’s suggestion, my sister was tested to see if she had a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation.  Unfortunately, she did.  So, while she began her journey of fighting the ovarian cancer and getting a PBM, I began my journey to see if I had the same genetic mutation that caused her cancer.  There was a 50/50 chance that I carried it too.  The next time I visited my OBGYN for my yearly exam, I talked to him about it.  After he reviewed my family history and asked me some questions, he finally asked if I wanted to have the test done, right there in his office. I was in panic mode as I realized how much testing positive would mean for my family and me. I wanted to know, I needed to know, so that I could plan for my future.  I have two daughters, and ultimately it was my love for them that made me go forward with the test that day.
It took two weeks for the test results to come back. After waiting for what seemed like forever, nothing could have prepared me for the news that confirmed that I was BRCA2+, just like my sister.  NOT the news I wanted to hear.  I cried for what seemed like days… I prayed to God to seek guidance as to what to do. And I asked Him to just give me peace with my decision. When I felt like I was ready for the next step, I found an oncologist to work with.   After reviewing my test results and family history, she recommended that I take steps to prevent cancer because my risk was so high. It wasn’t a matter of if I would get cancer, but WHEN I would.  I had already had a hysterectomy but chose to have my remaining ovary removed as well as my cervix in December 2011.  I also made plans to have a PBM with expanders on June 1st of 2012.
In May 2012, I had my first pre-op appointments. I was completely at ease and relaxed, but by my June 1st surgery date, I was a NERVOUS WRECK—who wouldn’t be, right?  The surgery lasted six hours and I was told that it went well and there was no cancer present.  When I woke up, I was sore, screaming, and extremely scared.  A big dose of IV meds helped me calm down and sleep until it was time to go home.  When I was more alert, I felt my chest and examined the new me. My new breasts were hard and covered in bandages and had drains coming out of them.  They weren’t pretty yet, and I had months of drains and fills before I’d be ready for my exchange surgery to get silicone implants.  But the first big step was done. Waking up out of the anesthesia and post-op pain meds it hit me; it was done. I had done it. Tears poured down my cheeks.  My daughters would not have to worry about their mom getting breast or ovarian cancer and dying because I had taken the first BIG step.
In August, I had a surgical washout due to a Seroma that had formed on my left side.  The surgeons drained it and found no reason to take out the expanders. I felt great, but a few days later the Seroma came back on both sides. Fortunately, my PS decided that it was finally time to do the exchange. Not all doctors would agree to do this, but he said that it would probably help the thin skin that was being damaged by the rough expanders. Some women adjust well to the expansion process, but my skin was like paper and it was extremely painful.
On  September 26th 2012 I had my third and final surgery—the exchange that replaced my expanders with silicone implants.  I woke up after that surgery with soft squishy “foobs,” my surgical journey complete.
Since that last surgery, I’ve had no problems and have recovered wonderfully. I feel at peace with my decision. I feel good about why I did this. I feel empowered. I feel joy. I feel alive.  My name is Leanna Kay. I am a Previvor, and I’m staying one.

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September 17, 2014

Are you kidding me??? June first since my last post???  Well there is a reason for that...computer issue after computer issue and finally biting the bullet for a new hard drive. All is well now! Planning to keep this post a catch up one.

Summer has come and gone. We survived graduation, moving two kiddos to college, and the beginning of "empty nesting". There has been a few camping weekends as well as some great family time with more forthcoming.  The summer weather has been incredibly cool and very wet.  In fact there have been days I thought I was going to melt down if I didn't see the sun soon. After such a long winter we ALL need to see the sun and it's been very elusive.

In between times Brody has joined the University of Indianapolis football team as a walk on, #93!!! As a Freshman he won't play at all. (I think they have 7 kickers). He is perfectly great with that and enjoys the work outs, team bonding, and study tables. Fortunately he loves the structure and it keeps him very busy. He will not travel to any away games but will dress for home ones. As long as he is happy so are we! Go Greyhounds!!! So far he has adjusted very well to college life, living in a confined space (at home his room was huge, the largest in the hose), and seems to have made tons of new friends already. The fact that he has had no major adjustment issues has made our transition to an empty nest easier. Molly dog however periodically circles the kid's rooms just making sure they have not sneaked back in without her knowledge. :(

Kinsey is all settled into a campus apartment with her same roomie and one new one. All is well in their world.  Kinsey has started volunteering at Riley Children's Hospital in Indianapolis. She life guarded all summer, has plenty of babysitting experience, and hopes to practice art therapy focusing in the area of pediatrics. Of course Riley is the perfect fit for her! She has only spent one Friday with the children so far and was placed in the neuro/ transplant unit. Needless to say the tubes and wires she saw coming from everywhere on these children left a lasting impression. She LOVED it and can't wait to go back this Friday. Riley has a great art therapy program so this should be an excellent stepping stone.

As for me and Brad, well it's been different. My dad kept me busy from March through August with constant heart problems. Knock on wood I think we have him regulated and he is doing great. It has been wonderful not having every minute of every day planned and there have been times we have looked at one another and said "What on Earth are we going to do today?"  I have been a Pinterest recipe making fool. We have enjoyed some of the niece's and nephew's activities and have more on our calendar. Weekends are still super busy which is fine.  Our 25th wedding anniversary is coming up as well as my 30th class reunion and Brad's parent's 50th wedding anniversary so things will pick up I'm sure.

My health has been just fine. Brad had a couple episodes that really concerned me. Since he has a history of TIA,( transient ischemic attack, better known as a mini stroke), off to the doctor he went. He has undergone enough testing he should glow quite well for some time. All has been normal so we are most grateful for that!!!

As the autumn leaves begin to turn and the chill is in the air may you enjoy some quality time with family and friends, with campfires, football, and comfort food.  I will catch up soon with some helpful information to pass along. In the meantime Go Hounds!!!

June 1, 2014

Commencement 2014!  The time simply flew by and our baby is officially considered a college Freshman. Brody entered this world two weeks early at a whopping 8 pounds 6 ounces. He was an excellent baby from the start cooing tons in the hospital and smiling early on. His infectious smile made many a stranger comment on his personality. Now he is our almost 6 foot handsome fella who has had quite the successful high school career. He has won plenty of athletic awards, has graduated with an academic honors diploma, and was awarded cords for being in the National Honor Society as well as the Spanish National Honor Society. On Senior awards night he made us even prouder by bringing home multiple scholarships!  We couldn't be prouder!!! Brody plans to attend the University of Indianapolis along side his sister and study kinesiology and then apply for entrance into the physical therapy program. Congrats Brody on all your hard work and accomplishments!  We love you lots!!!

                                           

                                        

May 12, 2014

Just a bit behind here.  After my general surgeon follow ups were my oncology 6 month visit on April 22nd and then my plastic surgeon one year follow up on May 12th.  Oncology was all good, just keep doing what I am doing and return in 6 months. My plastic surgeon was able to see the settling the left breast has done since surgery. I had called and let them know I had a sunken area months ago. That area remains near the top and it's pretty obvious that the implant has shifted downward. He lifted it a bit manually to show how if he surgically lifted it it would help fill in that sunken area somewhat. No thanks, I'm done with surgeries for awhile. It isn't noticeable in my clothing so I see no need to fix it.  I suggested that we wait until my three year MRI to check the implants. If he sees any issues then maybe we can go in and make that adjustment. I have not the time, the money, nor the desire to undergo another surgical procedure. However I do very much appreciate that he is a perfectionist and wants to make sure all his patients are completely satisfied. He did take photos at this stage to have on record.

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Many of you have heard of inflammatory breast cancer. Although very rare it is certainly worth being aware of. Below I have copied and pasted the information the American Cancer Society has posted on their website. This is a simple over view which explains the disease and how it differs from more common forms of breast cancer. Please take a moment to read and share with a friend! 

What are the signs and symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer?

Inflammatory Breast Cancer

This document briefly describes inflammatory breast cancer. For more comprehensive information on this and other types of breast cancer, please refer to our document called Breast Cancer.

What is inflammatory breast cancer?

Injury, irritation, or infection can cause increase blood flow and the buildup of white blood cells in the body's tissues. This typically results in redness, warmth, and swelling in the involved parts of the body. This is called inflammation.
Inflammatory breast cancer displays the same symptoms that may occur with inflammation, like swelling, skin redness, and an orange peel like texture of the skin. But this does not mean that IBC (or its symptoms) is caused by infection or injury. The symptoms of IBC are caused by cancer cells blocking lymph vessels in the skin.
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is rare and it differs from other types of breast cancer in its symptoms, prognosis (outlook), and treatment.
There is some disagreement in the numbers, but IBC probably accounts for about 1% of all breast cancers diagnosed in the United States. Some experts believe that IBC may be more common, but diagnosing it is often difficult. This can mean the disease is not being reported as often as it should be.

How is inflammatory breast cancer different from the more common types of breast cancer?

Inflammatory breast cancer causes symptoms that are often different from those of more common breast cancers. It rarely causes a breast lump, and it might not show up on a mammogram. Because it doesn't look like a typical breast cancer, it can be harder to diagnose.
IBC tends to develop at a younger age than the more common form of breast cancer (at an average age 52 versus 57 for non-inflammatory breast cancer). Also, African-American women appear to be at higher risk of IBC than white women. It also is more common among women who are overweight or obese.
IBC also tends to be more aggressive—it grows and spreads much more quickly— than more common types of breast cancer. Based on the way breast cancer is staged, it is never early stage breast cancer. It is always at least stage IIIB (locally advanced) when it is first diagnosed because the breast cancer cells have grown into the skin. Often, though, it has already spread (metastasized) to distant parts of the body when it is diagnosed, making it stage IV. The advanced stage of IBC, along with the tendency to grow and spread quickly, makes it harder to treat successfully than most other types of breast cancer.

Last Medical Review: 10/14/2013
Last Revised: 10/14/2013

(This information is copied and pasted from the American Cancer Society website. Please visit http://www.cancer.org/
for more information.)

Sunday, March 30, 2014

Sadly, this month marked the passing of one of our community's best, Tracey Barnard. She is the gal who I spoke of some time back who had colon cancer with recurrences and whose husband has battled skin cancer. Tracey lost her battle leaving behind her husband and two children still at home. At only 41 she had battled cancer for a number of years and was nothing short of a peaceful warrior who never gave up. She fought each recurrence with strength and grace and daily made anyone who knew her wonder how she kept going and how she was still able to smile. So many have prayed so there is no denying she is wrapped in God's loving arms pain free at last. It's my prayer that her family can stay strong and keep her close at heart always. Tracey will be sadly missed by so many, but certainly by her third grade class who offered her so much love and support! Rest in peace my friend!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKDGlQLf7ls

  Monday, March 10, 2014

Sometimes it's amazing how difficult something so simple can be. I was to see my general surgeon in December. His office cancelled as he was to be out of town. We jointly cancelled early January due to a blizzard. On my third attempt, in weather that was not to be bad at all, I totaled my Suburban en route. Needless to say this visit was making me somewhat paranoid! Finally the weather cleared and I made it safe and sound.

After getting me situated in a room his nurse told me she had a patient who was really struggling with reconstruction. She often is not in the room for the final post op exams so she asked if I would be comfortable showing her the end result of my reconstruction. Of course I have continued to be very open with my experience and I was happy to show her. I mean really, at this point who really cares after all I've been through!  She was quite impressed with my finished product and asked if she could share my story of reconstruction with this patient as she knew I had struggled with the whole idea. I of course agreed and even gave her my number and offered to talk with this woman if it was in her comfort zone. To me it was not an inconvenience or an invasion of my privacy, but more of an honor that of all the women they see who have faced breast cancer, it was me who she thought would be compassionate and helpful to another patient.

My doctor came in and did a thorough exam. He felt I have very good results with my reconstruction and said it was no big deal that I did not continue on with the nipple reconstruction. He said as long as I got the result I was going for, simply some shape back, that's all that mattered. He said he was sorry he couldn't do a better job on the left side, the cancer side, but that he took all that he could of the tissue just to be safe. He did a great job and the only issue is with a small sunken area above my implant. Both he and my plastic surgeon said I can have a lipo injection to fill in that area. I have no desire to mess with it. To me it's just not a big deal. In the meantime I am to continue to be on the look out for any lumps, especially along the incision line. The odds are very slim for a recurrence with mastectomy but it can happen. My surgeon has signed off unless I should find an area of concern. That's a great feeling!!!

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent as recognized by many Christians. My day started off with penance...going to 8am Mass and receiving ashes. No the Mass part wasn't the penance, it's the 8am!  I am completely a nocturnal creature and really don't do mornings before 9, but I did it!!! Often times I "give up" something but sometimes my Lenten focus is on "doing" something extra. This year I am going the "giving up" route and I am trying to "offer up" any stresses or roadblocks as penance. This was something taught to be by my mom and my aunt. Jesus suffered tremendously for our sins and I know that my trials and tribulations are really nothing compared to that. It just makes sense to put them in God's hands and to suffer through them as a form of thanking Him for His suffering.

What does all this have to do with cancer, illness, or daily struggles? Well, my thought was that by sharing this idea maybe those of you struggling with anything in your day to day journey may want to give it a try. We all have different ways of dealing with stress. It's my hope that by sharing this simple idea maybe someone else may find it helpful. Sending prayerful thoughts to all who may be troubled today!

January 30, 2014

Winter blahs, cabin fever, seasonal depression, simply stir crazy? Does that sound familiar to anyone?  As far as I know the only one that I have experienced so far is the stir crazy.  Actually maybe it's just the "crazy" part.  "Minnie Paws" seems to be knocking at the door. I can feel periods of anxiety over sometimes absolutely nothing, my patience has been wearing thin, and I have had some night sweats. Oh the joys. My yearly was in December so the menopause discussion ensued. Of course with a history of breast cancer hormone therapy is not an option. It was a relief that my NP had some ideas to share. At least I have options.

Of course every day stress can be a huge factor and to say that our family has experienced stress would be an understatement. The fresh start to a new year hasn't panned out so well. Another friend from church has been diagnosed with breast cancer, her second occurrence as she has had thyroid. Yet another is awaiting testing in hopes her lump is a cyst, another has colon cancer and another continues on chemo for a recurrence. The new puppy has been sick and needed lots of extra attention. Kinsey had second thoughts on the whole engagement thing and I totaled my Suburban on black ice. The shooting at Purdue was quite frightening as Brad is on campus all the time for work. We know so many who attend and work there and they all were on my mind. And what about the crazy weather and of course the impending issues with the propane shortage?

I came home the other night and Brad was on the phone. Apparently I  looked pathetic because he grabbed me, gave me a big hug, and whispered "You look stressed." Good read dear, good read!  Feeling completely overwhelmed I solicited prayers from friends, and they could be felt immediately. Being a firm believer that God helps those who help themselves I tried to do my part. Our Jacuzzi tub is amazing therapy! Beyond that an evening glass of wine, some scrapping, painting toe nails with Kinsey, and cranking up some good tunes to drown out any stressful thoughts. Ahh, free therapy at it's best!

Needless to say February can't come soon enough, and after that Spring Break in March. Hallelujah!

Since I mentioned toe nails this seemed a fitting way to sign off. Now that is priceless free therapy!