New to network

HarleyBabe

Happy Mothers day!!

I have stage 4 breast cancer and have been in treatment for 2 years. This is my second time around, had stage 1 in 2008. I'm so glad to have found a place to talk to survivors and understand what I'm going through. I'm still working,but trying to get on SS disability. Just had a petscan and cancer is stable but still active,I was told I would always be in some sort of treatment. Does anyone one else have chronic cancer? It was hard to hear, I'm only 48.

 Have a blessed day!!!

tasha_111

Hi there

Happy Mothers day to you too!   I am also stage 4 and I am 53, was told last year and still utterly devastated, but coping with it, what else can you do eh?   This site got me through stage 2 back in 2007 and now I am back again, for the last time I think.   I hope you are feeling good at the moment and that you have a wonderful weekend.  Julia x

New Flower

tasha_111 said:

Hi there

Happy Mothers day to you too!   I am also stage 4 and I am 53, was told last year and still utterly devastated, but coping with it, what else can you do eh?   This site got me through stage 2 back in 2007 and now I am back again, for the last time I think.   I hope you are feeling good at the moment and that you have a wonderful weekend.  Julia x

Hi Girls

Welcome to the board

i am only 52 and have been in treatment for stage 4 for two years now. first time I was diagnosed in 2008 at the age of 46 with stage 3. It is hard to believe that we alway need to be in treatment. I also have been working full time. Please keep coming back to share your experience You are not alone

hugs

disneyfan2008

I had Lumpectomy 2006 and

I had Lumpectomy 2006 and radiation-then another one in 2012-(only scar tissue)

Dummy me when I finished my radation June 2008 i said nice knowing you all -good bye. LITTLE did i know  i had to see them yearly for ever and ever.

 

Good place to get suggestions, advice and a place to vent when you need to.

Denise

HarleyBabe

Thank you

Thank you all for your kind words and support.  Its so sad we are so young and have to go through this, and that I'm not alone in this fight.  Sending prayers and posistive thoughts your way.

mzl0ve

Welcome/ but sorry you have to be here

I am 38 amost 39 I have been fighting stage 4 since I was diagnosed 4 years ago. I was able to get it in remission but told last oct the beast was back. I am now on a new treatment for me and just finished radiation ( with 3rd degree burns) but that's ok because my tumor markers are normal again.

 

the lady's and few men I have meet on here have helped me more then I can say. a lot of times I don't has to ask my questins because someone else has already and I can read along. That's great beacouse I have many days I do not like speaking. When I do talk everyone is very nice and helpful.

HarleyBabe

tasha_111 said:

Hi there

Happy Mothers day to you too!   I am also stage 4 and I am 53, was told last year and still utterly devastated, but coping with it, what else can you do eh?   This site got me through stage 2 back in 2007 and now I am back again, for the last time I think.   I hope you are feeling good at the moment and that you have a wonderful weekend.  Julia x

Hang in there

Sounds like you have been through a lot!! Hope all goes well for you..sending prayers!!

HarleyBabe

New Flower said:

Hi Girls

Welcome to the board

i am only 52 and have been in treatment for stage 4 for two years now. first time I was diagnosed in 2008 at the age of 46 with stage 3. It is hard to believe that we alway need to be in treatment. I also have been working full time. Please keep coming back to share your experience You are not alone

hugs

Thank you

Its a shame we all need to be in treatment, God bless our doctors!!  I'm working full-time as well, but my boss is giving me a hard time. She is not happy about me having off on doctor days and needing days off when I don't feel good, which is not often. She said she is tired of dealing with all of it. So I'm looking into other options. Hope all is going well with you.

gshm50

Searching for answers

Greetings to all of you brave, courageous women!

When my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, all of us in the family were shocked. We also felt very blessed that it was caught very early on. She took a very no-nonsense approach and had a double mastectomy, which as far as we can tell had the desired effect of eliminating the cancer, as she has remained cancer-free in the ensuing years. As we grappled with the whole idea of breast cancer, I did what I do best in such situations, which is research the big picture of the disease and its effects. I have a great deal of empathy for all of you who are in endless treatment for Stage 4 breast cancer. I must admit that part of what angered me in my research is how little progress has been made in effectively treating Stage 4 patients. Why is that? Given the huge focus on breast cancer awareness and research in the medical community over the last several decades, why has so little progress been made in the big picture? It is a question that has nagged me ever since my mother’s encounter with breast cancer. I continue to search for answers. One of the ideas I have explored is this: What if the whole traditional approach to cancer is wrong? What I mean by that is, what if the big-picture thinking about cancer in general is just wrong? It just seems to me that if the traditional thinking hasn’t really resulted in any significant improvements in treating Stage 4 breast cancer, maybe some new thinking is what is really needed. And when I say new thinking, I don’t mean all the sort of weird things you see online about curing cancer with this or that crazy alternative treatment (although I’m open to anything that appears to get real results). I continue to search for new, fresh thinking that would really benefit people like all of you in Stage 4 treatment. When I find anything that seems promising, I will be sure to post it here. In the meantime, I sincerely hope that all of you can find ways to be as well as you can be.  – Sherman Morrison

 

HarleyBabe

gshm50 said:

Searching for answers

Greetings to all of you brave, courageous women!

When my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, all of us in the family were shocked. We also felt very blessed that it was caught very early on. She took a very no-nonsense approach and had a double mastectomy, which as far as we can tell had the desired effect of eliminating the cancer, as she has remained cancer-free in the ensuing years. As we grappled with the whole idea of breast cancer, I did what I do best in such situations, which is research the big picture of the disease and its effects. I have a great deal of empathy for all of you who are in endless treatment for Stage 4 breast cancer. I must admit that part of what angered me in my research is how little progress has been made in effectively treating Stage 4 patients. Why is that? Given the huge focus on breast cancer awareness and research in the medical community over the last several decades, why has so little progress been made in the big picture? It is a question that has nagged me ever since my mother’s encounter with breast cancer. I continue to search for answers. One of the ideas I have explored is this: What if the whole traditional approach to cancer is wrong? What I mean by that is, what if the big-picture thinking about cancer in general is just wrong? It just seems to me that if the traditional thinking hasn’t really resulted in any significant improvements in treating Stage 4 breast cancer, maybe some new thinking is what is really needed. And when I say new thinking, I don’t mean all the sort of weird things you see online about curing cancer with this or that crazy alternative treatment (although I’m open to anything that appears to get real results). I continue to search for new, fresh thinking that would really benefit people like all of you in Stage 4 treatment. When I find anything that seems promising, I will be sure to post it here. In the meantime, I sincerely hope that all of you can find ways to be as well as you can be.  – Sherman Morrison

 

Thank you

I glad to here your mom is still cancer free!!! Thank you for all your concerns and I would agree with you, there has to be something better out there. You are a very inspiring person and look forward to any updates you may find.

 

CypressCynthia

Welcome sweetie!  I am so

Welcome sweetie!  I am so very sorry to hear about your battle with this &**%% disease!  You have found an excellent and safe place to come and vent.

I was originally diagnosed in 1987 (Stage 3 at age 33) and have been Stage 4 since 2005 (spread to lung and ribs).  This year, I had to quit working after the cancer also spread to my liver.  I am on herceptin/perjeta now for life (or until it quits working).  I have dealt with chronic cancer for a long, long time and I am here for you!  Keep fighting and remember that none of us comes with an expiration date.  I plan for the worst but then enjoy every day I have left.  Big ((((hugs))))!!!!

HarleyBabe

CypressCynthia said:

Welcome sweetie!  I am so

Welcome sweetie!  I am so very sorry to hear about your battle with this &**%% disease!  You have found an excellent and safe place to come and vent.

I was originally diagnosed in 1987 (Stage 3 at age 33) and have been Stage 4 since 2005 (spread to lung and ribs).  This year, I had to quit working after the cancer also spread to my liver.  I am on herceptin/perjeta now for life (or until it quits working).  I have dealt with chronic cancer for a long, long time and I am here for you!  Keep fighting and remember that none of us comes with an expiration date.  I plan for the worst but then enjoy every day I have left.  Big ((((hugs))))!!!!

encouragement

Thank you for your very kind words. My cancer has spread to lungs and lymph nodes in my chest. My chemo drugs will keep changing as well when one stops working. You are a very inspiring person and sending positive thoughts and prayers your way!!!

marycurbelo1204

CypressCynthia said:

Welcome sweetie!  I am so

Welcome sweetie!  I am so very sorry to hear about your battle with this &**%% disease!  You have found an excellent and safe place to come and vent.

I was originally diagnosed in 1987 (Stage 3 at age 33) and have been Stage 4 since 2005 (spread to lung and ribs).  This year, I had to quit working after the cancer also spread to my liver.  I am on herceptin/perjeta now for life (or until it quits working).  I have dealt with chronic cancer for a long, long time and I am here for you!  Keep fighting and remember that none of us comes with an expiration date.  I plan for the worst but then enjoy every day I have left.  Big ((((hugs))))!!!!

GOD BLESS YOU

I WISH YOU LUCK AND MAY GOD BLESS ALL WHO ARE GOING THRU THIS.  I WAS DX'D WITH STAGE 2 TRIPLE NEGATIVE AND AM FINISHING MY FIRST ROUND OF CHEMO.,  MY ONCOLOGIST HAD ADVISED THAT I WOULD NOT BE NEEDING RADIATION THERAPY.  JUST HEARD TODAY FROM NURSE THAT I WILL BE GOING TO RADIATION THERAPY.....  I DON'T KNOW MUCH ABOUT WHAT I HAVE AND WHERE I GO FROM HERE.  MY DAUGHTERS (3) ARE MY BIGGEST SUPPORT SYSTEM AND THEY ARE RESEARCHING AND KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT MY CONDITION.  I AM SUFFERING FROM CHRONIC DEPRESSION (WHO WOULDN'T) AND TUNE OUT... I SHOULDN'T BUT I DO.  THIS IS MY VERY FIRST TIME ON THIS SITE AND I DON'T KNOW IF I AM DOING THIS RIGHT.  MY PCC ADVISED ME TO JOIN.

HarleyBabe

marycurbelo1204 said:

GOD BLESS YOU

I WISH YOU LUCK AND MAY GOD BLESS ALL WHO ARE GOING THRU THIS.  I WAS DX'D WITH STAGE 2 TRIPLE NEGATIVE AND AM FINISHING MY FIRST ROUND OF CHEMO.,  MY ONCOLOGIST HAD ADVISED THAT I WOULD NOT BE NEEDING RADIATION THERAPY.  JUST HEARD TODAY FROM NURSE THAT I WILL BE GOING TO RADIATION THERAPY.....  I DON'T KNOW MUCH ABOUT WHAT I HAVE AND WHERE I GO FROM HERE.  MY DAUGHTERS (3) ARE MY BIGGEST SUPPORT SYSTEM AND THEY ARE RESEARCHING AND KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT MY CONDITION.  I AM SUFFERING FROM CHRONIC DEPRESSION (WHO WOULDN'T) AND TUNE OUT... I SHOULDN'T BUT I DO.  THIS IS MY VERY FIRST TIME ON THIS SITE AND I DON'T KNOW IF I AM DOING THIS RIGHT.  MY PCC ADVISED ME TO JOIN.

Hang in there

You are going thru a lot right now...lean on your daughters. Good luck with all your treatments and know that God is right beside you...ALWAYS!!

CypressCynthia

marycurbelo1204 said:

GOD BLESS YOU

I WISH YOU LUCK AND MAY GOD BLESS ALL WHO ARE GOING THRU THIS.  I WAS DX'D WITH STAGE 2 TRIPLE NEGATIVE AND AM FINISHING MY FIRST ROUND OF CHEMO.,  MY ONCOLOGIST HAD ADVISED THAT I WOULD NOT BE NEEDING RADIATION THERAPY.  JUST HEARD TODAY FROM NURSE THAT I WILL BE GOING TO RADIATION THERAPY.....  I DON'T KNOW MUCH ABOUT WHAT I HAVE AND WHERE I GO FROM HERE.  MY DAUGHTERS (3) ARE MY BIGGEST SUPPORT SYSTEM AND THEY ARE RESEARCHING AND KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT MY CONDITION.  I AM SUFFERING FROM CHRONIC DEPRESSION (WHO WOULDN'T) AND TUNE OUT... I SHOULDN'T BUT I DO.  THIS IS MY VERY FIRST TIME ON THIS SITE AND I DON'T KNOW IF I AM DOING THIS RIGHT.  MY PCC ADVISED ME TO JOIN.

I was diagnosed with Stage 3

I was diagnosed with Stage 3 way back in 1987.  I had a mastectomy, chemo and radiation.  For me, radiation was a piece of cake.  Some have trouble with a bad sunburn, I just had mild redness.  Take good care of your skin and ask the radiation onc's staff the best way to do this.  Here is a link from Sloan Kettering about how to take care of your skin:  http://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/resources/skin-care-guidelines-patients-receiving-radiation-therapy

Also, do not let depression take over!  Cancer patients are at higher risk for depression.  Ask your onc for something for this.  He will know what is compatible with your treatment.  I was boo hooing and feeling really rotten and a little lexapro really helped me in my fight against this cruddy, anxiety-producing disease.

Good luck!!!  And please stay in touch.  It helps to come here where others have been through the same (or similar) treatments, etc.  Sending big cyber (((hugs))) and prayers!!!!

Bright Bod

CypressCynthia said:

I was diagnosed with Stage 3

I was diagnosed with Stage 3 way back in 1987.  I had a mastectomy, chemo and radiation.  For me, radiation was a piece of cake.  Some have trouble with a bad sunburn, I just had mild redness.  Take good care of your skin and ask the radiation onc's staff the best way to do this.  Here is a link from Sloan Kettering about how to take care of your skin:  http://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/resources/skin-care-guidelines-patients-receiving-radiation-therapy

Also, do not let depression take over!  Cancer patients are at higher risk for depression.  Ask your onc for something for this.  He will know what is compatible with your treatment.  I was boo hooing and feeling really rotten and a little lexapro really helped me in my fight against this cruddy, anxiety-producing disease.

Good luck!!!  And please stay in touch.  It helps to come here where others have been through the same (or similar) treatments, etc.  Sending big cyber (((hugs))) and prayers!!!!

new to forum

It's amazing seeing the strength on these forums. I have to admit having a paternal grandmother who had a dbl masectomy b/c of cancer tumors, I am realizng I should probably get my first mammogram. Just very frigthing, but seeing how much courage there is in these forums there is a lot of hope and positive attitudes...

VickiSam

Bright Bod said:

new to forum

It's amazing seeing the strength on these forums. I have to admit having a paternal grandmother who had a dbl masectomy b/c of cancer tumors, I am realizng I should probably get my first mammogram. Just very frigthing, but seeing how much courage there is in these forums there is a lot of hope and positive attitudes...

Bright Bod ...

Encouraging you to seek and REQUEST a mammogram - .. start a baseline of sorts for you, and your Future.

Strength, Courage and HOPE for a Cure.

Vicki Sam

mommez24

New to network

Hi yall, 

I was diagnosed with breast cancer May 2nd this year - shocked still. its NCIS stage one.  Last week went from lumpectomy to mastectomy as my second biopsy 2 weeks ago & still not healed or stopped hurting.  The 2 other spots turned out to b cancer as well and not enough tissue.  I have opted to do dbl mastectomy & reconstruction.  I had to stop premerin but got so depressed they let me start taking it until surgery so need to find substitute unless I am allowed to continue use as all breast tissue will be removed & skin stretchers put in.  See plastic surgeon this week & probably have surgery July.  2 surgeries, one to remove & one to reconstruct.

i am 49 w/4 kids 9-20yrs.  I am disabled & suffer from other illnesses as well.  I don't think my family takes cancer too seriously bc it's only stage 0 & my dad was diagnosed with stage 3 lung cancer week b4 my diagnosis.  Also, this has triggered my anxiety again & I am scared & feel largely alone.

i love arts & crafts & do them all, currently doing photography, watercolor & my newest craft, needle felting.  I don't like doing water felting much cause hurts my hand but it's like I have no energy or interest or creativity since diagnosis.  Just taking care of kids & gona try yoga at cancer center this week since breast better.  Got to go riding again Saturday which spiritually & emotionally & physically helps me.  

Glad ad to have found y'all ,

mommez24

gshm50

HarleyBabe said:

Thank you

I glad to here your mom is still cancer free!!! Thank you for all your concerns and I would agree with you, there has to be something better out there. You are a very inspiring person and look forward to any updates you may find.

 

I found something very interesting

HarleyBabe:

I wanted to let you know that I have come across something I find very interesting. It is a new form of treatment that appears to be getting good results so far in Stage IV patients. It's called Atavistic Oncology. It does use drugs to treat the cancer, but not the typical chemotherapy drugs. This doctor (Arguello) is taking a very novel approach to cancer, and is treating even late-stage patients with common already-approved drugs like antifungals and antibacterials. He believes that cancer cells are behaving like the single-celled organisms that all life came from, which is why his treatments are working. His website may be found at http://www.atavisticchemotherapy.com and I do think it is worth checking out. In particular, I would highlight the section of the website that has the before/after photos of patients he has actually treated with this new method. They are difficult photos to look at, but important to show how well it works for late-stage patients. I think it offers a true ray of hope for those who are otherwise feeling as if there are no new options. The before/after treatment section may be found at http://www.atavisticchemotherapy.com//content/cancer_treatments

I mentioned in my earlier posting that I would share anything I found that might be of use to you and other patients who are at Stage IV and feeling down about it. I hope that it is something you find worth exploring and possible taking advantage of!

 

All my best,

 

Sherman Morrison