Cancer, layoffs, and other stuff

fauxma

First, let me say that although this sounds bad, it's not really.
Well, you know that I had breast cancer, lumpectomies, rads, and now Arimidex. Well, in June I was laid off from my job, but it was okay cause I could use the time to recoup from everything and hubby has a good job and he carries our health insurance. Well, last week he came home and he was laid off also. He was devastated. He has never been fired, laid off, ever and he was so worried about our insurance needs. He is 70 and planned to retire soon but with the housing market going belly up and us owing more than the house could possibly be sold for and the need for insurance he kept working. I still wanted him to retire. I believe that there are always solutions. So although we are both jobless I am actually okay with this. My best friend in the worlk has offered us to move in with her and that will allow us to cobra my part of his insurance and he can go on medicare and we can pay her rent. We will let our house go into foreclosure and declare bankruptcy if we must. Our daughter also offered us to move in with them but they are a little cramped in their apartment so we will do that further down the road. Our friend has a large home and lives alone and really wants the company so it should work out fine. We have hubby's social security and we can both collection unemployment for several months. In March, I can also start collecting my social security. In the meantime, I called my oncologist and my uterine cancer nurse practitioner and asked to have my September appointments moved up in case we can't afford the cobra. Both of them scheduled the appointments immediately. So on Wednesday, I saw my oncologist who refilled my arimidex for 90 more days. So I have a 180 day supply. She also told me to call the clinical study people and see what they can do and Astra Zenica as well. She said she would help with phone assistance on any questions I might have. She was going to schedule my mammograms even though they aren't due until late September or early October. The next day I went for my uterine cancer check up. She did the most complete exam. She did blood work, urine tests, is rushing a BRCA test (she feels this should be done), scheduled my mammogram for right then, and removed a suspicious mole from my pubic area (wasn't expecting that). She also said to call for any phone help I might need and she was the one that mentioned that I would only have to pay 35% of the cobra costs and that I only needed to cobra me. Bless the woman, she has been a rock for me for the past 9 years. Had my mammogram, they did the regular shots on the left, but the right one they did additional closer films because they saw something. They were going to send for my original films to compare (these were done at the Vallejo facility and I was in Sacramento) them. They told me that they would probably be doing an ultrasound. I got a card in the mail today that they would indeed be scheduling the ultrasoud. But we all know that it is not unusual for this at the 1st check up so I am not worried. I have a bladder infection and there were some other minor issues with my blood work related to my kidneys but nothing dire. So the bottom line, is that we will be relocating, downsizing, trying to retain our insurance etc. But I am so glad that my hubby is not working at his stressful job. I worried so much that he was going to work himself to death and that would have be devastating. This stuff is just bumps in the road and we will be fine. Life can throw punches but I'm pretty good at ducking. And besides, my favorite Winnie the Pooh character is Tigger cause he bounces. I bounce. I am not sure why I am sharing. It's not like I need sympathy because I don't feel sad or bad. Maybe I just wanted you to know what's going on. Now good wishes for the biopsy and for them finding me NED with the ultrasound would be wonderful. And also to share what a caring group of doctors and nurses I have. I am truly a lucky, lucky gal. In so many ways, I am blessed.
Stef

Akiss4me

Stef
Thanks for sharing. Wow, talk about a full plate! I'm sorry to hear about your husband being laid off. Maybe these are just new doors opening up for you. As always, you sound very upbeat and like you are handling this very well (and with a plan!). Keep us posted and I know everything will work out in the end. ♥ Pammy

Reikigemgirl

Wow,
seems like you have a lot going on right now but you seem to be on top of things. Sorry to hear about you and your husbands jobs. My fiance got laid off right when all this started with my cancer and I'm thankful because he can come with me to all of my appointments now. Although I was told the other day there won't be room for him in the chemo room so he can't wait with me. This has me upset, we had planned on doing it together.

It sounds like you have it all under control and the plan sounds good. I am sure that your friend can use the company in her house and so glad you are getting all of your testing, doctor's appts. done ahead of time. What a whirlwind of things to do!

Thanks for the update. Love and Light,
Vicki

fauxma

Akiss4me said:

Stef
Thanks for sharing. Wow, talk about a full plate! I'm sorry to hear about your husband being laid off. Maybe these are just new doors opening up for you. As always, you sound very upbeat and like you are handling this very well (and with a plan!). Keep us posted and I know everything will work out in the end. ♥ Pammy

That is exactly it. New
That is exactly it. New doors are also opening. We just need to step through. Life's not just a rollercoaster it is an adventure. It's time for my hubby and I to explore the possibilties. And yes, things will work out. They always do, just not always the way we expect.
Stef

fauxma

Reikigemgirl said:

Wow,
seems like you have a lot going on right now but you seem to be on top of things. Sorry to hear about you and your husbands jobs. My fiance got laid off right when all this started with my cancer and I'm thankful because he can come with me to all of my appointments now. Although I was told the other day there won't be room for him in the chemo room so he can't wait with me. This has me upset, we had planned on doing it together.

It sounds like you have it all under control and the plan sounds good. I am sure that your friend can use the company in her house and so glad you are getting all of your testing, doctor's appts. done ahead of time. What a whirlwind of things to do!

Thanks for the update. Love and Light,
Vicki

Vicki
I did not do chemo but
Vicki
I did not do chemo but I did see the rooms at the facility that I would have done it had it been necessary. There was not much room but there were still family members in there. I think you should let them know that you need your fella with you and see if something can't be worked out. Maybe you could schedule a time or day that is not so impacted with patients. I think having someone if you need them is very critical to doing this successfully.
Thanks for your good thoughts. It's a whirlwind but I am so grateful that all these tests were done so quickly for me. And all will be good.
Stef

lanie940

Did you get the break with
Did you get the break with COBRA? I'm asking because Obama supposedly passed a bill to have the government help people who have to COBRA because of job loss, and pay up to 60% of the cost. My neices ex husband did that when he was laid off from his job in the Spring, and thank heavens he did COBRA, he recently had a heart attack at age 54 and had a stent put in.
It just really sucks sometimes. My sister-in-law was laid off from her job when she was 70, but I think it was age discrimination, she was gradually being pushed out of her position for younger blood. It happens all the time, and it bites wind.
I'm glad you are taking this well. Myself, I play the lottery, and I think only people who have suffered emotionally and physically with cancer should be winning. LOL!

Calleen

lanie940 said:

Did you get the break with
Did you get the break with COBRA? I'm asking because Obama supposedly passed a bill to have the government help people who have to COBRA because of job loss, and pay up to 60% of the cost. My neices ex husband did that when he was laid off from his job in the Spring, and thank heavens he did COBRA, he recently had a heart attack at age 54 and had a stent put in.
It just really sucks sometimes. My sister-in-law was laid off from her job when she was 70, but I think it was age discrimination, she was gradually being pushed out of her position for younger blood. It happens all the time, and it bites wind.
I'm glad you are taking this well. Myself, I play the lottery, and I think only people who have suffered emotionally and physically with cancer should be winning. LOL!

Oh Man
You are taking it well... Your are definatley making lemondae!!! You have found soloutions for each issue.. What a strong example of a survivor you are to us!!! I LOVE this board!!! What truly Amazing people you all are!!!

HUGZ.... Calleen

survivorbc09

fauxma said:

That is exactly it. New
That is exactly it. New doors are also opening. We just need to step through. Life's not just a rollercoaster it is an adventure. It's time for my hubby and I to explore the possibilties. And yes, things will work out. They always do, just not always the way we expect.
Stef

So sorry Stef, but like you
So sorry Stef, but like you said, new doors open!

fauxma

lanie940 said:

Did you get the break with
Did you get the break with COBRA? I'm asking because Obama supposedly passed a bill to have the government help people who have to COBRA because of job loss, and pay up to 60% of the cost. My neices ex husband did that when he was laid off from his job in the Spring, and thank heavens he did COBRA, he recently had a heart attack at age 54 and had a stent put in.
It just really sucks sometimes. My sister-in-law was laid off from her job when she was 70, but I think it was age discrimination, she was gradually being pushed out of her position for younger blood. It happens all the time, and it bites wind.
I'm glad you are taking this well. Myself, I play the lottery, and I think only people who have suffered emotionally and physically with cancer should be winning. LOL!

We haven't got the cobra
We haven't got the cobra information from his job but I am sure it will be like mine. Yes, it is a 60% or 65% reduction which will make his manageable. I also had insurance but it was a different way more crummy plan that we didn't ever use because his was so much better and we couldn't combine them. But it was part of my job package so it was there. We didn't cobra it because we didn't use it except for the dental which I did cobra. That is only $8 a month. If I had known he was going to get laid off, I might have taken the medical but his will be a better deal even if it will be more expensive. We will do whatever we can to ensure we keep this coverage. I know when it goes up to the 100% we will not be able to retain it but then we will look into the alternatives then.
I know that it is possible that this layoff was age discrimination but the shop has been really slow and in January, his boss stopped paying the spouse, children portion of the insurance. We picked up the cost ourselves because I was in the middle of treatments. It was an expense but with my salary it was doable. There were other layoffs at both our jobs so it is truly part of the economic downturn.
Lanie, I like your lottery logic. Now if someone can get that to really happen, I will buy a ticket. I want to win the lottery but I want to find the winning ticket. How's that for optimism?
Caleen, I don't think it's strength so much. I learned long ago that for me, I need to look at the problem and think solutions. Long ago, I let myself lose control of my life, my destiny and I vowed that I would not do that ever again. My hubby and I work together as a team for resolution and to give each the support that we need emotionally, spiritually, and physically. He has always been there for me. This is different than fighting the cancer and yet, my tools are the same. What is the problem, what can I do, what can't I do, and let's begin? It doesn't mean I don't worry. I do. But I don't make worry my main focus. I cry, but not for long. And I get going as soon as I can. I think most of us do this. That is why the waiting is the worst part. I want to plunge forward and sometimes we can't.
If anything, I draw strength from all on this board. Even from those in turmoil. Because they too bring something in that turmoil. Seeing another person's journey can help clarify your own. Following their path or diverging can be your solution too. And my heart always goes out to the other's. Many have had so much more thrust upon them and look where they are. We all inspire each other, each and everyone of us. That's the beauty of this board.
Stef
Stef

Marcia527

We had to make some changes
We had to make some changes too. Husband laid off in 2000 after 25 years. Been trying a little of this and a little of that since then. A year ago he started a business and works for himself now. Not making much yet but it's not stressful and he enjoys working now. Plus you know how everyone hates Monday? The shop doesn't even open until NOON. Ha. I guess we told Monday off!

Alexis F

Marcia527 said:

We had to make some changes
We had to make some changes too. Husband laid off in 2000 after 25 years. Been trying a little of this and a little of that since then. A year ago he started a business and works for himself now. Not making much yet but it's not stressful and he enjoys working now. Plus you know how everyone hates Monday? The shop doesn't even open until NOON. Ha. I guess we told Monday off!

You sure have a great
You sure have a great attitude with all of this. Stay strong and think positive!

Hugs ♥Lex♥

rjjj

Steff
Thanks for sharing with us. your outlook is very inspiring to me. It is so uplifting to see your positive attitude shining through. It sounds like you are blessed to have all this sent your way in a time of need.

Good luck to you and your hubby on your move and new life without job-stress. I will certainly be wishing you all the best with your biopsy, ultrasound and any other tests. Please keep us up on all.

God bless,
Jackie

Kylez

rjjj said:

Steff
Thanks for sharing with us. your outlook is very inspiring to me. It is so uplifting to see your positive attitude shining through. It sounds like you are blessed to have all this sent your way in a time of need.

Good luck to you and your hubby on your move and new life without job-stress. I will certainly be wishing you all the best with your biopsy, ultrasound and any other tests. Please keep us up on all.

God bless,
Jackie

Good luck to you and your
Good luck to you and your husband in this unforeseen set of circumstances. Wishing you the best.

aurora2009

Hi Steff
I'm so sorry to hear about all that's been thrown at you, but it does sound like you have a great attitude. And life is an adventure, so this move you're making might turn out to great for every one.

I mostly wanted to wish you luck and send positive thoughts and prayers your way reguarding the biopsy and ultra sound that you're having soon. I definately pray that NED comes to visit you for a long time.

You're a wonderful and inspiring lady here on the boards, and I hope the best for you.

God Bless

Aurora ♥ ♥ ♥

susie09

Calleen said:

Oh Man
You are taking it well... Your are definatley making lemondae!!! You have found soloutions for each issue.. What a strong example of a survivor you are to us!!! I LOVE this board!!! What truly Amazing people you all are!!!

HUGZ.... Calleen

So sorry Stef. You seem to
So sorry Stef. You seem to have a good plan in place already. Wishing you luck!

♠♣ Susie ♠♣

DianeBC

aurora2009 said:

Hi Steff
I'm so sorry to hear about all that's been thrown at you, but it does sound like you have a great attitude. And life is an adventure, so this move you're making might turn out to great for every one.

I mostly wanted to wish you luck and send positive thoughts and prayers your way reguarding the biopsy and ultra sound that you're having soon. I definately pray that NED comes to visit you for a long time.

You're a wonderful and inspiring lady here on the boards, and I hope the best for you.

God Bless

Aurora ♥ ♥ ♥

Steff, that is horrible.
Steff, that is horrible. Your attitude is amazing. With that, you can get thru anything.

Best of luck to you!

Hugs, Diane ♥

fauxma

DianeBC said:

Steff, that is horrible.
Steff, that is horrible. Your attitude is amazing. With that, you can get thru anything.

Best of luck to you!

Hugs, Diane ♥

I want to thank you all for
I want to thank you all for the support. It does mean a lot to have this from all of you. As horrible as it all sounds I have to say that I am lucky. Lucky that I have such good friends, lucky that I have a good hubby and daughter, lucky that all my cancers have been caught early and are very treatable, lucky that I am just alive, lucky that I have this board to come to and good friends here to talk with, yes, I am a lucky, lucky gal.
Stef

Moopy23

Tigger
Stef, anyone who knows you is blessed. That I knew long before this post. Your doctors' and nurses' acting with extraordinary quickness and thoroughness does not surprise me. You are something special.

You are, indeed, a bouncer, right up there alongside Tigger; still, I am sorry about the job situation and all it has caused. I am sending good wishes and a prayer that the biopsy and ultrasound are both nothing to be concerned about and that NED is with you always.

Love,
Moopy

fauxma

Moopy23 said:

Tigger
Stef, anyone who knows you is blessed. That I knew long before this post. Your doctors' and nurses' acting with extraordinary quickness and thoroughness does not surprise me. You are something special.

You are, indeed, a bouncer, right up there alongside Tigger; still, I am sorry about the job situation and all it has caused. I am sending good wishes and a prayer that the biopsy and ultrasound are both nothing to be concerned about and that NED is with you always.

Love,
Moopy

Moopy,
You are always a
Moopy,
You are always a spirit lifter. They haven't scheduled the ultrasound yet but I should hear tomorrow about a date. And I figure that if I haven't heard about the results of the biopsy it is probably good news. They usually call if it is bad and send those little cards if it is good. Or else the results are back yet. At worst, it will be a basal or squamous cell skin cancer and I have had them before. Funny, though, when you research these they are usually in places that we have had excessive sun exposure and all of mine (I have had three) have been in areas that is rarely exposed to the sun, especially this one. I may have worn a bikini but never one that low. Of course, if it is a skin cancer it could be from the pelvic radiation 9 years ago. I think, though, that it is just a stupid mole.
I hope that you are resting still and using your lotions and getting all your strength back. And most of all that you and Joe are enjoying being home with the pups.
Thank you for the kind words, the prayer and the good wishes. Even though I am okay with all that is happening it is still nice to hear words of encouragement.
Stef

Moopy23

fauxma said:

Moopy,
You are always a
Moopy,
You are always a spirit lifter. They haven't scheduled the ultrasound yet but I should hear tomorrow about a date. And I figure that if I haven't heard about the results of the biopsy it is probably good news. They usually call if it is bad and send those little cards if it is good. Or else the results are back yet. At worst, it will be a basal or squamous cell skin cancer and I have had them before. Funny, though, when you research these they are usually in places that we have had excessive sun exposure and all of mine (I have had three) have been in areas that is rarely exposed to the sun, especially this one. I may have worn a bikini but never one that low. Of course, if it is a skin cancer it could be from the pelvic radiation 9 years ago. I think, though, that it is just a stupid mole.
I hope that you are resting still and using your lotions and getting all your strength back. And most of all that you and Joe are enjoying being home with the pups.
Thank you for the kind words, the prayer and the good wishes. Even though I am okay with all that is happening it is still nice to hear words of encouragement.
Stef

Encouragement
You give so much encouragement to us, Steff. Wish I could write a poem or song for you, but I don't have that talent. Bad news does travel faster in my experience, too, so no biopsy news is a good sign. Let us know about the ultrasound. I have faith that NED is with you, but getting all the tests done ahead of time is an excellent idea. Less cost, and quicker relief for you.

Just curious though: how low did you wear those bikinis, Mammo Mia?

fauxma

Moopy23 said:

Encouragement
You give so much encouragement to us, Steff. Wish I could write a poem or song for you, but I don't have that talent. Bad news does travel faster in my experience, too, so no biopsy news is a good sign. Let us know about the ultrasound. I have faith that NED is with you, but getting all the tests done ahead of time is an excellent idea. Less cost, and quicker relief for you.

Just curious though: how low did you wear those bikinis, Mammo Mia?

Just below the belly button
Just below the belly button and only for a few years, then I had to go to the one piece suits. Too much me for too little bikini.
I am confident that all will be well and if not, I will deal with it, one step at a time.
Stef