Do things always move this fast?
Trying to catch my breath. Just opened an email from my OB/GYN with possible surgery dates... starting July 7. I have a phone appointment scheduled with her tomorrow to set up an appontment with the surgeon. Have now frantically had to cancel planned events at my house which meant I did have to share what's going on with me before I was really ready to. Part of me wants to get this part over with ASAP, and the other part wants time to... to what? Well, wants to wake up and discover this was a bad dream. Unfortunately, it's gone on way too long. What have your experiences been from the time you are diagnosed to surgery? And why can't I stop shaking?
Comments
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Just take a deep breath
I think no matter how quickly or slowly they move it feels like it is too fast. I am going through that right now in fact, I have to have my gall bladder removed and in doing the ultrasounds they found a small problem with my kidney and potentially another growth to deal with. They have been scrambling and it looks like I have surgery next Tuesday but I have a family reunion next week. my brothers and I, along with our families meet every other year somewhere in the US to get every one together as we are spread all over the country. Luckily the reunion, which lasts a week, is only an hour and half from my home. I am trying to figure that al out depending on the type of surgery I have. Then I had to start planning on being out longer at work so that caused me to have to share that information with people there. Plus rearranging my calendar at work for four doctors appointments, yet another scan and more tests this week. And for me, I like to mentally prepare but am trying to organize so much right now that I can't think about it,
In re-reading this I realized I am overwhelmed. I did get out tonight and go riding just for a mental break. It was worth it. The hardest part is dealing with all of the questions people have, especially since I don't have answers. Now I remind myself what I tell everyone else. Take a deep breath and take it one day, one task at a time. I will too. we can totally do this.
Anne
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Five days
I had my surgery only five days after diagnosis. It was so quick I didn't have much time to worry about it. My doctor moved so fast because I have clear cell endometrial cancer, a very agressive type. Sue
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Being stillAWK said:Just take a deep breath
I think no matter how quickly or slowly they move it feels like it is too fast. I am going through that right now in fact, I have to have my gall bladder removed and in doing the ultrasounds they found a small problem with my kidney and potentially another growth to deal with. They have been scrambling and it looks like I have surgery next Tuesday but I have a family reunion next week. my brothers and I, along with our families meet every other year somewhere in the US to get every one together as we are spread all over the country. Luckily the reunion, which lasts a week, is only an hour and half from my home. I am trying to figure that al out depending on the type of surgery I have. Then I had to start planning on being out longer at work so that caused me to have to share that information with people there. Plus rearranging my calendar at work for four doctors appointments, yet another scan and more tests this week. And for me, I like to mentally prepare but am trying to organize so much right now that I can't think about it,
In re-reading this I realized I am overwhelmed. I did get out tonight and go riding just for a mental break. It was worth it. The hardest part is dealing with all of the questions people have, especially since I don't have answers. Now I remind myself what I tell everyone else. Take a deep breath and take it one day, one task at a time. I will too. we can totally do this.
Anne
I'm sorry that you are dealing with so much in such a short period of time. I do hope you can make the reunion. How wonderful that your family makes that effort to stay connected.
I can see that dealing with others' questions is a challenge. That's why at this point, I have only told my boyfriend and my two closest friends in town. I haven't even spoken to my brother.
I figured after I get the results of the scan, I will have a bit more information to share.
It's good that you got out to ride. It's so centering, chasing out the chatter inside the head.
I did take a breath, fixed dinner, went for a walk. I was going to go dancing tonight, but decided to stay in, read, and be quiet.
We just have to gather our energy in and recharge, before we can send it out. You are right. We can do this.
Chris
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Given the alternativeSettledSue said:Five days
I had my surgery only five days after diagnosis. It was so quick I didn't have much time to worry about it. My doctor moved so fast because I have clear cell endometrial cancer, a very agressive type. Sue
Wow. That IS fast. In my brain of brains, I am grateful that the surgery can be scheduled so quickly. It's the emotional part of me that is screaming "Hold on!"
Chris
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Sometimes they do
On Thursday, I had the bad news from my eye specialist that I was losing more vision and my case was being passed to someone with more expertise. So, I figured that ship has now sailed and I should now take the time to see someone about this bleeding issue. So, I went to the nurse practitioner on Friday, she called me on Monday to tell me what I had and that I was set up with the oncologist on Tuesday. I had a blizzard of appointments for CT scans, MRIs, physical and had the surgery the following Tuesday. So about 10 days from first doc appointment. This was because MMMT is very aggressive. That was last year. Did not have chemo since there is no indication that it spread and only a small portion of my tumor was MMMT. I'm sure chemo is somewhere in my future.
I was more focussed on my vision issue that I really spent no time thinking about the cancer. The bleeding worsened a lot after that weekend and I had developed anemia, so just getting through the day was tough. I went to bed after dinner and just slept.
Now is the time to let your family deal with their own problems. They need to pick up the pace and do stuff for themselves or at least not throw their crap on you. It's a bummer though that you had to cancel plans.
Five days. Wow! I thought 10 was pretty fast but I was also dealing with a holiday weekend.
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I think fast is good
I know what you by being overwhelmed, but the faster that cancer is out of your body, the less time it has to spread.
I was bleeding like crazy at the end of August 2013. I went to the gyn, fearing cancer, and she says, "no, it's not cancer," smiles, puts me on some hormone. Then schedules me for utrasound. Determines it's only a cyst. They wait a few weeks to schedule to D&C. Then with cancer diagnosis, they still plan to wait 5-1/2 more weeks before surgery.
I got to a different surgeon. He takes it out the next week.
turns out it had spread to the lymph nodes -- Stage 3 cancer. So, I think when did this spread? No way of knowing. It is medium aggressive. But if the gyn had done her job at the end of August with all the tests, and I could have surgery then.
Upshot... After surgery then didn't give me time to shop around for a medical oncologist. They said I didn't have time to wait before chemo. It was too dangerous. I called Sloan Kettering, asking for a consult, but they said they couldn't give me one for 4 weeks, and that after seeing my records (they always get your recordds before they will discuss anything), that I didn't have time to wait.
Tell your brother, your friends, to set all SUPPORT. The support I had got me through it.
Important thing -- get the turmor out ASAP.
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Editgrl
I had to wait a month before surgery. I was worried and very stressed about how far the cancer would spread in that amount of time. It's really better to get something done about it right away. Then you'll know where you stand more quickly, what stage you're in, what type it is, etc. Even if it's bad news, some of us do survive the worst. I was stage IVb with UPSC five years ago, and I'm still in remission, so there's hope no matter what happens.
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Editgrl, it will get somewhat easier with time.
The shaking now is normal and time-limited. The beginning is the hardest and most frightening and overwhelming. It will get easier with time, I promise. My hysterectomy was not difficult and the recovery was swift. The 6 cycles of chemo, carboplatin and taxol, was not that bad either. I had a difficult time coping with my hair loss but eventually it grew back. I continued to work while receiving chemo and only missed one day because I didn't feel well. I was very tired. I will be saying a prayer for you on the 7th that all goes smoothly for you, Editgrl.
Warm Wishes,
Cathy
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Shaking has stoppedAbbycat2 said:Editgrl, it will get somewhat easier with time.
The shaking now is normal and time-limited. The beginning is the hardest and most frightening and overwhelming. It will get easier with time, I promise. My hysterectomy was not difficult and the recovery was swift. The 6 cycles of chemo, carboplatin and taxol, was not that bad either. I had a difficult time coping with my hair loss but eventually it grew back. I continued to work while receiving chemo and only missed one day because I didn't feel well. I was very tired. I will be saying a prayer for you on the 7th that all goes smoothly for you, Editgrl.
Warm Wishes,
Cathy
and surgery is now scheduled for July 10. That gave me a few more days to arrange things. Luckily, I am self-employed and was just finishing up a couple of small projects, so it was pretty easy to just not schedule anything more at this point.
I met my surgeon last Wednesday and liked him. Very thorough in his explanations, very patient with my questions, and I feel he is a good surgical partner in this fight. I was extremely nervous before my appointment with him, but felt so much better afterwards. Because I am in such good physical shape, both my OB/GYN and surgeon think that if everything goes according to plan, my recovery from surgery should be quick. My challenge will be to rest, let my body heal, and let other people take care of me. I've never been very good about asking for help, but it is absolutely necessary in this case, and I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support.
Thanks for the words of encouragement, Cathy. It's so important to hear from all who have been through this. I have no words for the strength that I have already drawn from this board and all who have posted. And I'm now ready to join the battle.
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Good luck to you!Editgrl said:Shaking has stopped
and surgery is now scheduled for July 10. That gave me a few more days to arrange things. Luckily, I am self-employed and was just finishing up a couple of small projects, so it was pretty easy to just not schedule anything more at this point.
I met my surgeon last Wednesday and liked him. Very thorough in his explanations, very patient with my questions, and I feel he is a good surgical partner in this fight. I was extremely nervous before my appointment with him, but felt so much better afterwards. Because I am in such good physical shape, both my OB/GYN and surgeon think that if everything goes according to plan, my recovery from surgery should be quick. My challenge will be to rest, let my body heal, and let other people take care of me. I've never been very good about asking for help, but it is absolutely necessary in this case, and I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support.
Thanks for the words of encouragement, Cathy. It's so important to hear from all who have been through this. I have no words for the strength that I have already drawn from this board and all who have posted. And I'm now ready to join the battle.
Be careful when you start eating again.
I got bowel obstruction and went back in the hospital for 6 more days.
No one told me to be careful with fiber and because I love fruit and vegetables I ate plenty and maibe that's why I got it.
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I'll keep you in my prayers on the 7th
That is the day of my surgery too! We'll both knock this out together. I had some delays and had more and more scans; there are new mets for sure - this will speed up my next round of treatments as the growth has been significant. In the meantime I get my gallbaldder out and they are trying to insert a stent due to a 100% blockage of my left kidney. I did get to spend time with my family last week in Santa Barbara; we made that our home base while going back and forth to Northridge for appointments, scans and labwork. It was great to see everyone and they reminded me that I need to let them help out and provide support. Which was great. I have five brothers (no sisters) and they really amazed me this past week with their sensitivity and openness. They are scared but there for me and I am so lucky to have them.
Hoping to sneak in a ride tomorrow sometime before the surgery. If not, I plan on at least hanging out at the Barn later this week for some mental therapy! Keeping all of you in my prayers and sending healing vibes out!
Hugs,
Anne
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You'll be in my thoughtsAWK said:I'll keep you in my prayers on the 7th
That is the day of my surgery too! We'll both knock this out together. I had some delays and had more and more scans; there are new mets for sure - this will speed up my next round of treatments as the growth has been significant. In the meantime I get my gallbaldder out and they are trying to insert a stent due to a 100% blockage of my left kidney. I did get to spend time with my family last week in Santa Barbara; we made that our home base while going back and forth to Northridge for appointments, scans and labwork. It was great to see everyone and they reminded me that I need to let them help out and provide support. Which was great. I have five brothers (no sisters) and they really amazed me this past week with their sensitivity and openness. They are scared but there for me and I am so lucky to have them.
Hoping to sneak in a ride tomorrow sometime before the surgery. If not, I plan on at least hanging out at the Barn later this week for some mental therapy! Keeping all of you in my prayers and sending healing vibes out!
Hugs,
Anne
tomorrow, Anne. So glad that you got to spend time with your family last week. Such a gift to be able to spend time with them with everything that is going on. And Santa Barbara is such a lovely place. I haven't been there in years (I'm a Nor Cal girl, myself) but remember it fondly. I do hope you are able to sneak a ride with Cisco into your schedule today.
Holding you close in my heart for tomorrow.
Chris
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Hey Chris, Glad to hear you
Hey Chris, Glad to hear you like your doctor... So very important.
I'll be sending good thoughts your way on the 10th!
I wonder if we were separated at birth????? I make a terrible patient. Hate to be messed with. Hate to need help. ugh!
I have already prepared 6 nights of dinners and put them in the freezer for my husband and I. LOL...
Anyway, please talk yourself into accepting help. I'm still working on myself too. The best thing we can do for our healing is to give our bodies the time to do so. (OK, I said this more for me I think than for you!) ha! I get this lecture from my sister and niece often these days. They have been through it too.
Two things... I have never spent the night in a hospital. AND, I plan to walk out the very next day. We are both going to fly through this surgery with the robotics. No complications are allowed.
I'm counting on you since you are my mirror and I'll be 12 days behind you on my next phase of our journey! So, take care of yourself!0 -
Anne, I hope your surgeryAWK said:I'll keep you in my prayers on the 7th
That is the day of my surgery too! We'll both knock this out together. I had some delays and had more and more scans; there are new mets for sure - this will speed up my next round of treatments as the growth has been significant. In the meantime I get my gallbaldder out and they are trying to insert a stent due to a 100% blockage of my left kidney. I did get to spend time with my family last week in Santa Barbara; we made that our home base while going back and forth to Northridge for appointments, scans and labwork. It was great to see everyone and they reminded me that I need to let them help out and provide support. Which was great. I have five brothers (no sisters) and they really amazed me this past week with their sensitivity and openness. They are scared but there for me and I am so lucky to have them.
Hoping to sneak in a ride tomorrow sometime before the surgery. If not, I plan on at least hanging out at the Barn later this week for some mental therapy! Keeping all of you in my prayers and sending healing vibes out!
Hugs,
Anne
Anne, I hope your surgery goes well and that you heal quickly. So glad you were able to spend time with your family. That is truly priceless. Santa Barbara is a wonderful place to be. I lived in Thousand Oaks for 10 years or so. Without air conditioning. And, was mostly comfortable. Can't even imagine that now however! While I love living in Florida, I know I would not make it without our wonderful A/C! Anyway, got way off track here.... Just wanted to say thank you for all of your posts and information and let you know you have lots of love coming your way from here! I do hope you are able to get your ride in today. Take care, Cindi
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NorCal?Editgrl said:You'll be in my thoughts
tomorrow, Anne. So glad that you got to spend time with your family last week. Such a gift to be able to spend time with them with everything that is going on. And Santa Barbara is such a lovely place. I haven't been there in years (I'm a Nor Cal girl, myself) but remember it fondly. I do hope you are able to sneak a ride with Cisco into your schedule today.
Holding you close in my heart for tomorrow.
Chris
Hey, Chris. Are you still in Northern California? I'm up by Sacramento.
Good luck with your surgery later this week and good luck to Anne, too.
Suzanne
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Thanks, Suzanne.Double Whammy said:NorCal?
Hey, Chris. Are you still in Northern California? I'm up by Sacramento.
Good luck with your surgery later this week and good luck to Anne, too.
Suzanne
And yes, I'm still in Nor Cal. In fact, I am in Sacramento, too!
Chris
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Definitely separated at birth!TeddyandBears_Mom said:Hey Chris, Glad to hear you
Hey Chris, Glad to hear you like your doctor... So very important.
I'll be sending good thoughts your way on the 10th!
I wonder if we were separated at birth????? I make a terrible patient. Hate to be messed with. Hate to need help. ugh!
I have already prepared 6 nights of dinners and put them in the freezer for my husband and I. LOL...
Anyway, please talk yourself into accepting help. I'm still working on myself too. The best thing we can do for our healing is to give our bodies the time to do so. (OK, I said this more for me I think than for you!) ha! I get this lecture from my sister and niece often these days. They have been through it too.
Two things... I have never spent the night in a hospital. AND, I plan to walk out the very next day. We are both going to fly through this surgery with the robotics. No complications are allowed.
I'm counting on you since you are my mirror and I'll be 12 days behind you on my next phase of our journey! So, take care of yourself!I, too, have never been a patient in a hospital, and I am also planning on coming home on Saturday.
Doing the cooking ahead thing, too.
So I will do my best to lay down an easy path for you to follow, Cindi!
Chris
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Good luck to you!Editgrl said:Definitely separated at birth!
I, too, have never been a patient in a hospital, and I am also planning on coming home on Saturday.
Doing the cooking ahead thing, too.
So I will do my best to lay down an easy path for you to follow, Cindi!
Chris
Good luck to you!
Post some updates later
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Anne's surgeryAWK said:I'll keep you in my prayers on the 7th
That is the day of my surgery too! We'll both knock this out together. I had some delays and had more and more scans; there are new mets for sure - this will speed up my next round of treatments as the growth has been significant. In the meantime I get my gallbaldder out and they are trying to insert a stent due to a 100% blockage of my left kidney. I did get to spend time with my family last week in Santa Barbara; we made that our home base while going back and forth to Northridge for appointments, scans and labwork. It was great to see everyone and they reminded me that I need to let them help out and provide support. Which was great. I have five brothers (no sisters) and they really amazed me this past week with their sensitivity and openness. They are scared but there for me and I am so lucky to have them.
Hoping to sneak in a ride tomorrow sometime before the surgery. If not, I plan on at least hanging out at the Barn later this week for some mental therapy! Keeping all of you in my prayers and sending healing vibes out!
Hugs,
Anne
Anne, Just checking in to see how you are feeling? I hope your surgery went well. Thinking of you! Cindi
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