singer78
10-27-2007, 02:39 PM
Hello.
I have a question I haven't asked. As usual, I'm worrying again....
I'm finishing up my treatment for Hodgkin's (8 chemo treatments, 20 rad's...10 to go) & throughout this whole ordeal, glands just seem to come & go--mostly in the throat area.
The one's that seem most bothersome and sometimes ache, are right under my ear (on the same side as my original tumor). Thankfully, they go away, but I almost "always" have a swollen gland somewhere.
I'm back to experiencing the feeling of something stuck in my throat (from radiation), so I'll probably ask for something Monday to lubricate it. The radiation nurse said she could prescribe something. Since I have 10 more treatments, I would imagine it will get worse.
Are the swollen glands caused from lymphoma, or from treatment...or both?
I think I know the answer---it's probably both....but, if anyone can reassure me...I'd appreciate it. You guys know I need reassurance all the time. It certainly helps. I'm keeping my appt. on Monday with a psychologist. Hope that helps, too.
Linda...thanks for that long explanation on the other post.
I know there's probably a lot of people out there, like me, with cancer that want to know the "why's & how's" .... and really, you're right. It doesn't matter how you got it...what matters, is moving forward and treating it. I get a little upset, though, when I think of all the doctors I went to (prior to dx) and lots of bloodwork---not to mention the $$$ I paid out. It took me getting a hard-to-ignore tumor, before anyone paid any attention to my concerns. I'm a little bitter about that.
Keep us posted on Don and his progress. I pray he's getting stronger.
love,
S.
I have a question I haven't asked. As usual, I'm worrying again....
I'm finishing up my treatment for Hodgkin's (8 chemo treatments, 20 rad's...10 to go) & throughout this whole ordeal, glands just seem to come & go--mostly in the throat area.
The one's that seem most bothersome and sometimes ache, are right under my ear (on the same side as my original tumor). Thankfully, they go away, but I almost "always" have a swollen gland somewhere.
I'm back to experiencing the feeling of something stuck in my throat (from radiation), so I'll probably ask for something Monday to lubricate it. The radiation nurse said she could prescribe something. Since I have 10 more treatments, I would imagine it will get worse.
Are the swollen glands caused from lymphoma, or from treatment...or both?
I think I know the answer---it's probably both....but, if anyone can reassure me...I'd appreciate it. You guys know I need reassurance all the time. It certainly helps. I'm keeping my appt. on Monday with a psychologist. Hope that helps, too.
Linda...thanks for that long explanation on the other post.
I know there's probably a lot of people out there, like me, with cancer that want to know the "why's & how's" .... and really, you're right. It doesn't matter how you got it...what matters, is moving forward and treating it. I get a little upset, though, when I think of all the doctors I went to (prior to dx) and lots of bloodwork---not to mention the $$$ I paid out. It took me getting a hard-to-ignore tumor, before anyone paid any attention to my concerns. I'm a little bitter about that.
Keep us posted on Don and his progress. I pray he's getting stronger.
love,
S.
Sponsor
pinkmada
10-27-2007, 02:49 PM
Hey, how are you doing? I know what you mean about feeling bitter! I can't think about my old GP without having an urge to throw things and go to her surgery and yell. Sorry i can't help with the swollen glands thing. I never had any before my dx. nor through treatment. the ones in my throat are swollen right now but thats cause i have tonsilitis! (I always get the flu or tonsilitis in october!)
hope you are well. How many more radiations have you got now?
xxx
hope you are well. How many more radiations have you got now?
xxx
singer78
10-27-2007, 03:50 PM
Amanda,
Always nice to hear from you. I'm glad you're moving on with your life.
You're a great success story. I hope to be one there, too....very soon, hopefully.
You mentioned on the other post, that I should keep my appt. with the psychologist. I was teetering back & forth, but I really think I should. My husband is thinking we'll have to pay out-of-pocket, and wondering if it's "really worth it," but it's "me," not "him." He doesn't understand some of my issues from a man's point of view. Men seem to approach disease differently. He keeps saying, "You're better than you were, ...right?" Well, yeah...but, I still have issues... Besides, even though I love him, he doesn't have a degree in psychology. And, I'm like you---I really don't want to invade my body with antidepressants, unless absolutely necessary. Although, I am taking xanax...it seems to agree with me. I only take them when necessary, and I plan on weaning myself off, eventually.
Thanks for listening & responding.
Again, what would I do without you?
love, S.
Always nice to hear from you. I'm glad you're moving on with your life.
You're a great success story. I hope to be one there, too....very soon, hopefully.
You mentioned on the other post, that I should keep my appt. with the psychologist. I was teetering back & forth, but I really think I should. My husband is thinking we'll have to pay out-of-pocket, and wondering if it's "really worth it," but it's "me," not "him." He doesn't understand some of my issues from a man's point of view. Men seem to approach disease differently. He keeps saying, "You're better than you were, ...right?" Well, yeah...but, I still have issues... Besides, even though I love him, he doesn't have a degree in psychology. And, I'm like you---I really don't want to invade my body with antidepressants, unless absolutely necessary. Although, I am taking xanax...it seems to agree with me. I only take them when necessary, and I plan on weaning myself off, eventually.
Thanks for listening & responding.
Again, what would I do without you?
love, S.
LINDA505
10-27-2007, 05:26 PM
Hello, I just posted a long one on the other post you started.
Usually lymph nodes that are painful are caused by an infection or inflammation. Drugs, viral, bacterial infection will do that. I do not think it is the HD. Some people are just prone to having problems with their lymph nodes. Usually that is because that is the weakest part of their system and the first to be affected. You could have some irritation in your ear that you are not aware of and the first place it will show signs is in the gland under your ear. Painful is good. Cancerous tumors and node are not usually painful.
You are right about doctors. Very few will go the extra length to discover if someone has an underlying problem if you only present yourself to the office once or twice a year with the same problem. Either it is because of insurance
and what they allow or the phyician just does not think anything is wrong.
I still get crazy when someone thinks that they are in perfect health and safe if they have a physical every year. The tests performed are basic and unless you have lung cancer which will show up on an chest xray or some heart problem that will show on an EKG the rest is really unknown. Labs will detect some problems, some more evident than others, like diabetes, kidney disease or anemia , thyroid problems... but if everything is normal that does not always mean that you do not have an underlying problem. My sister in law had 5 out patient surgeries, which meant she had 5 pre surgical clearances that involved Labs, EKG's, Chest Xrays and through all that she
was deemed in perfect health by most standards. All the while she had liver
cancer. The only evidence was her liver enzymes were elevated. Her physician thought all along that it was because she was on a Statin to lower
her cholestrol. She finally got a diagnosis when she started to bleed and had
severe anemia. She passed away one yr. after her initial dx. This Dec 27 will be 2 years. There is no one more upset about the medical community than I am. I have an aversion to doctors and do not trust too many of them.
This is just one case but this is the norm in medicine. You see too much of this kind of thing. Very sad but true.
I talked with Don today and he is having his head shaved. He is starting to get the effects from the chemo and his hair is falling out and his scalp is very sore. He has had some mouth issues but he is doing good. His daughter fell
yesterday with her baby in her arms and she fractured her knee cap. Now she may have to have surgery. He is upset about that more than his situation. Some people never get a break.....but he is still thankful for everything. That is the bright side for him that he stills see the good.
Have a nice wk-end and relax....you can worry about these things on Monday.
Pinkmada , I wrote you something on the other post.
Love
Linda
Usually lymph nodes that are painful are caused by an infection or inflammation. Drugs, viral, bacterial infection will do that. I do not think it is the HD. Some people are just prone to having problems with their lymph nodes. Usually that is because that is the weakest part of their system and the first to be affected. You could have some irritation in your ear that you are not aware of and the first place it will show signs is in the gland under your ear. Painful is good. Cancerous tumors and node are not usually painful.
You are right about doctors. Very few will go the extra length to discover if someone has an underlying problem if you only present yourself to the office once or twice a year with the same problem. Either it is because of insurance
and what they allow or the phyician just does not think anything is wrong.
I still get crazy when someone thinks that they are in perfect health and safe if they have a physical every year. The tests performed are basic and unless you have lung cancer which will show up on an chest xray or some heart problem that will show on an EKG the rest is really unknown. Labs will detect some problems, some more evident than others, like diabetes, kidney disease or anemia , thyroid problems... but if everything is normal that does not always mean that you do not have an underlying problem. My sister in law had 5 out patient surgeries, which meant she had 5 pre surgical clearances that involved Labs, EKG's, Chest Xrays and through all that she
was deemed in perfect health by most standards. All the while she had liver
cancer. The only evidence was her liver enzymes were elevated. Her physician thought all along that it was because she was on a Statin to lower
her cholestrol. She finally got a diagnosis when she started to bleed and had
severe anemia. She passed away one yr. after her initial dx. This Dec 27 will be 2 years. There is no one more upset about the medical community than I am. I have an aversion to doctors and do not trust too many of them.
This is just one case but this is the norm in medicine. You see too much of this kind of thing. Very sad but true.
I talked with Don today and he is having his head shaved. He is starting to get the effects from the chemo and his hair is falling out and his scalp is very sore. He has had some mouth issues but he is doing good. His daughter fell
yesterday with her baby in her arms and she fractured her knee cap. Now she may have to have surgery. He is upset about that more than his situation. Some people never get a break.....but he is still thankful for everything. That is the bright side for him that he stills see the good.
Have a nice wk-end and relax....you can worry about these things on Monday.
Pinkmada , I wrote you something on the other post.
Love
Linda
singer78
10-27-2007, 10:11 PM
Linda,
I've so tried to get something done today--but, all I've managed to do, is take a bath & make breakfast, and do the dishes.
It was right after I ate...I had a piece of pumpkin pie, and then this feeling, like something is caught in my throat & also a bit of indigestion, is consuming me.
I always feel like such a whiner on here, so what did I do, that I swore I would never do again?---right! I did some research online. Now, I realize this feeling is probably only going to get worse. I don't know if I can take 2 more weeks of this. My only hope is to get something for my throat, I suppose.
There's so many websites about the side-effects of radiation...
I suppose I should be happy I've gotten through 2 weeks, relatively unscathed, but now it's driving me nuts!
I guess it's time to switch to that soft-food diet, although even drinking is becoming difficult. I'm not even being radiated on my throat, either---just both collarbone areas, and into my chest some.
I also read where I should be taking it easy, and I was beating myself up for not getting anything done. I need to relax, I guess.
Oh dear...when will it end?
I knew it was too good to be true.
Sorry, I'm sounding so down. Cancer really sucks.
XO, S.
I've so tried to get something done today--but, all I've managed to do, is take a bath & make breakfast, and do the dishes.
It was right after I ate...I had a piece of pumpkin pie, and then this feeling, like something is caught in my throat & also a bit of indigestion, is consuming me.
I always feel like such a whiner on here, so what did I do, that I swore I would never do again?---right! I did some research online. Now, I realize this feeling is probably only going to get worse. I don't know if I can take 2 more weeks of this. My only hope is to get something for my throat, I suppose.
There's so many websites about the side-effects of radiation...
I suppose I should be happy I've gotten through 2 weeks, relatively unscathed, but now it's driving me nuts!
I guess it's time to switch to that soft-food diet, although even drinking is becoming difficult. I'm not even being radiated on my throat, either---just both collarbone areas, and into my chest some.
I also read where I should be taking it easy, and I was beating myself up for not getting anything done. I need to relax, I guess.
Oh dear...when will it end?
I knew it was too good to be true.
Sorry, I'm sounding so down. Cancer really sucks.
XO, S.
singer78
10-27-2007, 10:13 PM
I'm posting another post, just because I noticed how many posts I've done...and I don't like the number.
Hopefully, this will make it #667.
LOL.
Hopefully, this will make it #667.
LOL.
pinkmada
10-28-2007, 03:54 PM
Hi Linda, yeah i got your other message. it's always upsetting when you have to shave your head. i know thats when most of my friends and family went 's***, she really is ill!' and i didn't need that at that time because it's hard enough. he's lucky he has you. i'm sorry about his daughter, is the baby ok? thats always scary too.
Singer, thank you, you always say such encouraing things to me. I can't stress enough how much i couldn't have got through everything without this site. you know yourself how amazing everyone is.
xxxx
Singer, thank you, you always say such encouraing things to me. I can't stress enough how much i couldn't have got through everything without this site. you know yourself how amazing everyone is.
xxxx
singer78
10-28-2007, 08:25 PM
Linda,
Hope Don is doing well.
Yes, how is his daughter--your niece, right? That's terrible about her knee.
"When it rains, it pours," doesn't it?
I had a better day today---not as many throat issues, but I assume it's because of no radiation yesterday. I definitely will address it tomorrow, when I speak with the radiologist. It's a very unnerving feeling....
Like I swallowed a golf ball, and then had a weird indigestion on top of it.
We went for a little drive again today, and it helped so much to get my mind off my troubles. If I can "just" hang in there for 2 more weeks. I actually was able to swallow, when we ate at a restaurant this afternoon. I'm beginning to feel some fatigue, also---I hardly ever take afternoon naps, and I just awoke from a long one.
On to #11 {{{radiation}}} tomorrow.
Counting down.....p.s. Amanda---thank you, too!
XO
Hope Don is doing well.
Yes, how is his daughter--your niece, right? That's terrible about her knee.
"When it rains, it pours," doesn't it?
I had a better day today---not as many throat issues, but I assume it's because of no radiation yesterday. I definitely will address it tomorrow, when I speak with the radiologist. It's a very unnerving feeling....
Like I swallowed a golf ball, and then had a weird indigestion on top of it.
We went for a little drive again today, and it helped so much to get my mind off my troubles. If I can "just" hang in there for 2 more weeks. I actually was able to swallow, when we ate at a restaurant this afternoon. I'm beginning to feel some fatigue, also---I hardly ever take afternoon naps, and I just awoke from a long one.
On to #11 {{{radiation}}} tomorrow.
Counting down.....p.s. Amanda---thank you, too!
XO
LINDA505
10-29-2007, 11:54 AM
Hello Singer and Pinkmada,
Hope that you all had a nice wk-end. We went to Pa. just 50miles outside of Philly to pick up a snowblower my hubby bought. It was a 10 hour drive round trip but it was nice. We brought Maddy , our puddy cat with us and he enjoyed it as well. It is so cold here today but I love it.
Talked with Don yesterday and he said he was feeling pretty good. He has a sinus type headache and they may do a CT of his head and sinus. H/A's are so common in treatment I do no know why they just do not address the problem and get rid of it. I think he feels better w/o hair. He had thick curly hair, beautiful most women would die to have his hair. He said the hair follicle was making his head sore. My Mom had the same thing. I shaved her
head for her. We laughed and cried at the same time. One time when she had to go into the hospital for a blood clot she had on her wig all the while in the ER and then when she went to her room. It took 5 hours of waiting and being in the ER so when we finally got settled in her room at one in the morning she threw her wig off across the room and said "Let me get this thing off, who is going to see me." The nurse came back in and looks at my Mom and gasped and says, "didn't I see you with hair a minute ago?" We both laughed and said she borrowed the hair. The nurse looks on the floor and sees this furry thing on the floor and says what's this? We cracked up and said, her hair. She thought it was an animal. The lights were dim and it looked like a small french poodle. We cracked up. We always tried to find some kind of humor and managed to laugh alot.
Yes, Tiffany is my niece. Thank God she did not drop the baby. He is only 6 months old. She landed on her knee with full force. I just pray she does not have to have surgery. They just went through a cancer scare with her 3 times...cervical, breast and lymphoma. Thank God it all came back ok. She is only 19.
Singer, I wish I had some magic word to say to you about your symptoms but unfortunately one thing will happen and then another. I always referred to it a "symptom stacking". One symptom may relate to another. I think when you focus on something it gets worse. If you keep busy and are having fun it is not as noticable. I think that is why when I worked I did not have time to think about the aches and pains. Since I've retired I focus more on myself and my body and I notice everything.
I would suggest that you compile a list of things that you need answers to and get them before you leave. For yourself you should write down symptoms when they come up so you remember what they were. When the doctor asked you about breathing problems you said no and then you remembered you were having them. When you are in the moment and the doctor is asking you things alot of patients get anxious and their minds go blank. Alot of times when they are asking you questions it is so they can ward off any problems that may arise before they get out of hand or worse.
Nothing is trivial. All symptoms are important. Let them judge what symptoms you are having need to be addressed and what the cause is. Not everything is related to the radiation or the chemo. Some things can be from your medication that you take. They are the professionals and are being paid to take care of you. They work for you.
My brother has a good philosphy. He does not want to know any side effects of anything. When something comes up he addresses it with the doctor. Other than that he just takes it and forgets about it. In most cases
he does not have any problems. I have a habit of saying too much to him sometimes on side effects and he just says I do not want to know it. He is right. The mind is strong and if you are looking for something wrong to happen it will. Just a thought.
Anyway, it is a nice sunny, cold day here and I will enjoy it. Hope you are
see the psychologist today. Have a good day.
Love
Linda
Hope that you all had a nice wk-end. We went to Pa. just 50miles outside of Philly to pick up a snowblower my hubby bought. It was a 10 hour drive round trip but it was nice. We brought Maddy , our puddy cat with us and he enjoyed it as well. It is so cold here today but I love it.
Talked with Don yesterday and he said he was feeling pretty good. He has a sinus type headache and they may do a CT of his head and sinus. H/A's are so common in treatment I do no know why they just do not address the problem and get rid of it. I think he feels better w/o hair. He had thick curly hair, beautiful most women would die to have his hair. He said the hair follicle was making his head sore. My Mom had the same thing. I shaved her
head for her. We laughed and cried at the same time. One time when she had to go into the hospital for a blood clot she had on her wig all the while in the ER and then when she went to her room. It took 5 hours of waiting and being in the ER so when we finally got settled in her room at one in the morning she threw her wig off across the room and said "Let me get this thing off, who is going to see me." The nurse came back in and looks at my Mom and gasped and says, "didn't I see you with hair a minute ago?" We both laughed and said she borrowed the hair. The nurse looks on the floor and sees this furry thing on the floor and says what's this? We cracked up and said, her hair. She thought it was an animal. The lights were dim and it looked like a small french poodle. We cracked up. We always tried to find some kind of humor and managed to laugh alot.
Yes, Tiffany is my niece. Thank God she did not drop the baby. He is only 6 months old. She landed on her knee with full force. I just pray she does not have to have surgery. They just went through a cancer scare with her 3 times...cervical, breast and lymphoma. Thank God it all came back ok. She is only 19.
Singer, I wish I had some magic word to say to you about your symptoms but unfortunately one thing will happen and then another. I always referred to it a "symptom stacking". One symptom may relate to another. I think when you focus on something it gets worse. If you keep busy and are having fun it is not as noticable. I think that is why when I worked I did not have time to think about the aches and pains. Since I've retired I focus more on myself and my body and I notice everything.
I would suggest that you compile a list of things that you need answers to and get them before you leave. For yourself you should write down symptoms when they come up so you remember what they were. When the doctor asked you about breathing problems you said no and then you remembered you were having them. When you are in the moment and the doctor is asking you things alot of patients get anxious and their minds go blank. Alot of times when they are asking you questions it is so they can ward off any problems that may arise before they get out of hand or worse.
Nothing is trivial. All symptoms are important. Let them judge what symptoms you are having need to be addressed and what the cause is. Not everything is related to the radiation or the chemo. Some things can be from your medication that you take. They are the professionals and are being paid to take care of you. They work for you.
My brother has a good philosphy. He does not want to know any side effects of anything. When something comes up he addresses it with the doctor. Other than that he just takes it and forgets about it. In most cases
he does not have any problems. I have a habit of saying too much to him sometimes on side effects and he just says I do not want to know it. He is right. The mind is strong and if you are looking for something wrong to happen it will. Just a thought.
Anyway, it is a nice sunny, cold day here and I will enjoy it. Hope you are
see the psychologist today. Have a good day.
Love
Linda
singer78
10-29-2007, 02:05 PM
Hi Linda,
I just got back--#11, done.
They gave me a script of Benadryl & Maalox & something else to take before I eat, when I have a hard time swallowing. Also, I continue taking the carafate for indigestion. I've lost 2 pounds. They don't want that, apparently--but, I'm rather thrilled, because I was getting "muffin top." You know the fat that goes over your jeans? But, I guess this is not the time to lose weight. I ate well yesterday, but today my appetite is waning. Why is it, all I've wanted throughout chemo & now radiation, is "crap" food? I crave sweets, which isn't good....it causes indigestion. I suppose I'll go back to my protein shakes. They're good, right? Plus, easy to swallow. They told me to stick with soft, not hot-or-cold foods.
I heard some older ladies talking about losing their appetites, too. Most of them are being radiated for breast cancer issues. I seem to be the youngest one there---makes me feel young! ha. I feel sorry for these ladies. There's got to be a reason why breast cancer is so imminent in this country. I feel so bad for these women, who are in their "golden years," fighting for their lives. This is a time, that they should be enjoying their grandchildren, and their retirement. I feel so bad for them.
I'm glad Don is doing well, but sorry to hear about his headaches. You'd think they could give him something for that.
I have my psychologist appt. this afternoon. I've gone back & forth, back & forth so much, my mind is spinning. :dizzy: My husband told me to "GO,"---he knows I have some issues. It certainly can't hurt. I think I have some "mother-type" issues that go way back. This will be interesting to get an unbiased opinion.
Thanks for your help, Linda.
I'm trying so hard not to fixate on negative things.
I get very excited, thinking about living life again, without treatment.
What a long, hard haul this has been. I can only imagine how CC is feeling. She's had such a rough time, but she's young & strong. She can do it.
Talk later...
love, S.
I just got back--#11, done.
They gave me a script of Benadryl & Maalox & something else to take before I eat, when I have a hard time swallowing. Also, I continue taking the carafate for indigestion. I've lost 2 pounds. They don't want that, apparently--but, I'm rather thrilled, because I was getting "muffin top." You know the fat that goes over your jeans? But, I guess this is not the time to lose weight. I ate well yesterday, but today my appetite is waning. Why is it, all I've wanted throughout chemo & now radiation, is "crap" food? I crave sweets, which isn't good....it causes indigestion. I suppose I'll go back to my protein shakes. They're good, right? Plus, easy to swallow. They told me to stick with soft, not hot-or-cold foods.
I heard some older ladies talking about losing their appetites, too. Most of them are being radiated for breast cancer issues. I seem to be the youngest one there---makes me feel young! ha. I feel sorry for these ladies. There's got to be a reason why breast cancer is so imminent in this country. I feel so bad for these women, who are in their "golden years," fighting for their lives. This is a time, that they should be enjoying their grandchildren, and their retirement. I feel so bad for them.
I'm glad Don is doing well, but sorry to hear about his headaches. You'd think they could give him something for that.
I have my psychologist appt. this afternoon. I've gone back & forth, back & forth so much, my mind is spinning. :dizzy: My husband told me to "GO,"---he knows I have some issues. It certainly can't hurt. I think I have some "mother-type" issues that go way back. This will be interesting to get an unbiased opinion.
Thanks for your help, Linda.
I'm trying so hard not to fixate on negative things.
I get very excited, thinking about living life again, without treatment.
What a long, hard haul this has been. I can only imagine how CC is feeling. She's had such a rough time, but she's young & strong. She can do it.
Talk later...
love, S.
singer78
10-30-2007, 05:12 PM
Hi...
New symptom for me:
Feeling weird tiredness....kind of unnerving. I guess this is the tiredness they keep asking me, if I'm feeling. I thought I'd get by without it,...
Anyone here reading this, is the fatigue caused by radiation different than "regular" fatigue? I'm assuming that's what's up.
I don't think I'm going to get much done.....I'm going to have to turn things over to my husband. I have lists of "to do" stuff miles long...to no avail.
When will this all end? Hopefully, after 8 more treatments. I pray :angel: !!!
I'm already thinking of ways to celebrate---maybe I shouldn't put the "cart before the horse," ---you think?
I talked to a psychologist yesterday and felt good about it. She's working on a "plan" for me.... Until then, I was diagnosed with mild depression & anxiety. I already kind of knew that when I went to a psychiatrist a few month's back. I'm "connecting" a lot better with the psychologist. She's a lovely woman, with very kind eyes & seems to be genuinely concerned. The psychiatrist was too blunt & just a pill-pusher, if you ask me. Some people should NOT be doctors.
I don't understand how being radiated can cause fatigue. (?)
I'm also praying for the day I can get my port out. It's bugging me lately. All of a sudden, it seems like is doesn't belong there....kind of foreign.
Other than that, I'm great! How's my "peeps" out there this fine day? :)
~~~~S.~~~~~
New symptom for me:
Feeling weird tiredness....kind of unnerving. I guess this is the tiredness they keep asking me, if I'm feeling. I thought I'd get by without it,...
Anyone here reading this, is the fatigue caused by radiation different than "regular" fatigue? I'm assuming that's what's up.
I don't think I'm going to get much done.....I'm going to have to turn things over to my husband. I have lists of "to do" stuff miles long...to no avail.
When will this all end? Hopefully, after 8 more treatments. I pray :angel: !!!
I'm already thinking of ways to celebrate---maybe I shouldn't put the "cart before the horse," ---you think?
I talked to a psychologist yesterday and felt good about it. She's working on a "plan" for me.... Until then, I was diagnosed with mild depression & anxiety. I already kind of knew that when I went to a psychiatrist a few month's back. I'm "connecting" a lot better with the psychologist. She's a lovely woman, with very kind eyes & seems to be genuinely concerned. The psychiatrist was too blunt & just a pill-pusher, if you ask me. Some people should NOT be doctors.
I don't understand how being radiated can cause fatigue. (?)
I'm also praying for the day I can get my port out. It's bugging me lately. All of a sudden, it seems like is doesn't belong there....kind of foreign.
Other than that, I'm great! How's my "peeps" out there this fine day? :)
~~~~S.~~~~~
LINDA505
10-30-2007, 07:22 PM
hello singer
Yes this is the fatigue they are talking about. No one know for sure why radiation and chemo cause fatigue but it does. It is an expected side effect so no one is surprised when it happens. It has a cummulative effect that builds up over time so that is why it is just hitting you more now. This to shall pass.
You know why you have it and that is nothing that you should be concerned about at this point. Just rest and eat a good healthy meal and plan your celebration for when this is over.
Sounds like you like your psychologist and you trust her to open up. It is good to get out all that stuff you harbor in you head. Clean out the cob webs so to speak.
Good news with Don. I talked with him today and he said that he is making cells on his own. His platelets were 16,000 yesterday and they doubled today on their own. His WBC's have increased as well. The doc was shocked as they did not expect that to happen for a few more days or longer.
I am thrilled as we all are. God is working his miracle. He had a CT of his head and sinus today and he is a bit worried they will find something. That is not unusal to start to worry about something else when the major illness is under some kind of control. I am sure his headaches are from sinus/tension, etc.
CC: I sure hope that you get your bone marrow results and that they are good. You are in thoughts and prayers always. Please let us know what is
going on. Thank you for your prayers to my brother. They have all helped.
Talk with you all soon
Love
Linda
Yes this is the fatigue they are talking about. No one know for sure why radiation and chemo cause fatigue but it does. It is an expected side effect so no one is surprised when it happens. It has a cummulative effect that builds up over time so that is why it is just hitting you more now. This to shall pass.
You know why you have it and that is nothing that you should be concerned about at this point. Just rest and eat a good healthy meal and plan your celebration for when this is over.
Sounds like you like your psychologist and you trust her to open up. It is good to get out all that stuff you harbor in you head. Clean out the cob webs so to speak.
Good news with Don. I talked with him today and he said that he is making cells on his own. His platelets were 16,000 yesterday and they doubled today on their own. His WBC's have increased as well. The doc was shocked as they did not expect that to happen for a few more days or longer.
I am thrilled as we all are. God is working his miracle. He had a CT of his head and sinus today and he is a bit worried they will find something. That is not unusal to start to worry about something else when the major illness is under some kind of control. I am sure his headaches are from sinus/tension, etc.
CC: I sure hope that you get your bone marrow results and that they are good. You are in thoughts and prayers always. Please let us know what is
going on. Thank you for your prayers to my brother. They have all helped.
Talk with you all soon
Love
Linda
singer78
10-30-2007, 08:29 PM
Linda,
I'm soooo thrilled for Don. That's the kind of news we all like hearing on here!
I'm sure it's good for CC to read things like that, too... Me, too.... Success stories are welcome!!! May Don continue to get better & better.. God does answer prayers. I'm a firm believer of that!
I feel a little better since I last posted.
When the fatigue hits, it's debilitating. I'm trying to eat healthy, but unfortunately, I stopped in at a "mom & pop" homemade candy store today (for Halloween-- as presents for my favorite people at the hospital) and bought us some, too. They're the best home-made chocolate mints I've ever had---I think I overdid it. Do you think sugar is bad? I read somewhere, that "tumors" feed off sugar. I try to watch my sugar intake, but I just have this darn old "sweet tooth." Other than that, I think I'm eating fairly healthy. The swallowing thing has subsided some, but I'm armed with medicine in case it gets out of hand like it did, this past weekend.
Happy Halloween everybody.
Gee...it's not that far off until Xmas!
love, S.
I'm soooo thrilled for Don. That's the kind of news we all like hearing on here!
I'm sure it's good for CC to read things like that, too... Me, too.... Success stories are welcome!!! May Don continue to get better & better.. God does answer prayers. I'm a firm believer of that!
I feel a little better since I last posted.
When the fatigue hits, it's debilitating. I'm trying to eat healthy, but unfortunately, I stopped in at a "mom & pop" homemade candy store today (for Halloween-- as presents for my favorite people at the hospital) and bought us some, too. They're the best home-made chocolate mints I've ever had---I think I overdid it. Do you think sugar is bad? I read somewhere, that "tumors" feed off sugar. I try to watch my sugar intake, but I just have this darn old "sweet tooth." Other than that, I think I'm eating fairly healthy. The swallowing thing has subsided some, but I'm armed with medicine in case it gets out of hand like it did, this past weekend.
Happy Halloween everybody.
Gee...it's not that far off until Xmas!
love, S.
CancerChick
10-31-2007, 08:59 AM
That's such good news about Don Linda. I know prayer is a powerful weapon and this is a testament to that.
Singer I'm glad you're feeling a little better. I don't know about the fatigue but I think I recall BeachJen saying she was fatigued from radiation too. It never ends does it. :(
No news yet and it's so hard trying to stay focused. I've been sleeping a lot and I know it's because I'm depressed over this whole mess. It's funny you mentioned about Christmas because I was thinking about it yesterday and what it will be like this year.
Alison I hope you stay safe. I heard on the news that there's a tropical storm headed your way. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Singer I'm glad you're feeling a little better. I don't know about the fatigue but I think I recall BeachJen saying she was fatigued from radiation too. It never ends does it. :(
No news yet and it's so hard trying to stay focused. I've been sleeping a lot and I know it's because I'm depressed over this whole mess. It's funny you mentioned about Christmas because I was thinking about it yesterday and what it will be like this year.
Alison I hope you stay safe. I heard on the news that there's a tropical storm headed your way. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
LINDA505
10-31-2007, 10:52 AM
Dear CC
Glad to see that you posted. Thank you for your kindness and prayers for Don and for my family. You are such a special person. Our prayers will work for you as well. Do not give up hope. Don did not have an easy road with this journey and had one pitfall after another. That is why they gave him such little hope. He is by no means out of the woods but this is a beacon of light that we are all clinging too. I really believe that God steers you to the path you need to be on and if you have a hard journey along the way it does not mean that he has left you behind. Sometimes you have to just trust that he will heal you. I can only imagine your desparation in all this and how
fearful you are. I do not think there is anything anyone can say to alleve that fear. I will continue to pray for your health to be returned to you.
Take care and let us know as soon as you know something.
God Bless you
Love
Linda
Glad to see that you posted. Thank you for your kindness and prayers for Don and for my family. You are such a special person. Our prayers will work for you as well. Do not give up hope. Don did not have an easy road with this journey and had one pitfall after another. That is why they gave him such little hope. He is by no means out of the woods but this is a beacon of light that we are all clinging too. I really believe that God steers you to the path you need to be on and if you have a hard journey along the way it does not mean that he has left you behind. Sometimes you have to just trust that he will heal you. I can only imagine your desparation in all this and how
fearful you are. I do not think there is anything anyone can say to alleve that fear. I will continue to pray for your health to be returned to you.
Take care and let us know as soon as you know something.
God Bless you
Love
Linda
singer78
10-31-2007, 02:36 PM
Hi All,
Just got back from radiation.
#7 tomorrow, counting down..... Lucky 7, right?
Kayla, yes I remember BeachJen saying that a long time ago, about fatigue.
I wonder where she's been? I suppose people get busy this time of year.
I, too, was wondering what Xmas will be like this year. As long as it's relatively healthy for us--that's all that matters. We all have to remember "the reason for the season," and forget all the hype around us. I certainly will be celebrating differently this year, and just be thankful I'm alive, and hopefully, well. God works in mysterious ways. :angel:
There were some cute people dressed up for Halloween at the hospital. One lady (with a bald head) and her husband, dressed up like "salt & pepper" shakers. She did that, since her head was so bald & white (she was salt). How cute, to make light of herself like that.
Linda, you certainly have a knack for words. I love the uplifting things you say to both CC & I. Thank you.
Yes...good luck with your weather, Alison----Haven't seen you on here for awhile, either.
love, S.
Just got back from radiation.
#7 tomorrow, counting down..... Lucky 7, right?
Kayla, yes I remember BeachJen saying that a long time ago, about fatigue.
I wonder where she's been? I suppose people get busy this time of year.
I, too, was wondering what Xmas will be like this year. As long as it's relatively healthy for us--that's all that matters. We all have to remember "the reason for the season," and forget all the hype around us. I certainly will be celebrating differently this year, and just be thankful I'm alive, and hopefully, well. God works in mysterious ways. :angel:
There were some cute people dressed up for Halloween at the hospital. One lady (with a bald head) and her husband, dressed up like "salt & pepper" shakers. She did that, since her head was so bald & white (she was salt). How cute, to make light of herself like that.
Linda, you certainly have a knack for words. I love the uplifting things you say to both CC & I. Thank you.
Yes...good luck with your weather, Alison----Haven't seen you on here for awhile, either.
love, S.
pinkmada
10-31-2007, 05:36 PM
Hi everyone. Happy Hallowe'en! I am wonder woman and I'm wearing a wig! haha.
Linda thats excellent news about your brother and i do hope that his daughter doesn't need surgery.
Singer, you are almost finished! Are you planning anything after your treatment? I waited a couple of weeks til the biggest side effects had gone away. Then i had champagne cocktails, not that i'm saying you should have alcohol so soon after treatment but you certainly deserve it! That is one of those occasions where you go to a restaurant and ask for there most expensive bottle!
CC. how are you feeling? when do you get the biopsy results? i am praying with everyone else on here that it is good results.
xxxxxx
Linda thats excellent news about your brother and i do hope that his daughter doesn't need surgery.
Singer, you are almost finished! Are you planning anything after your treatment? I waited a couple of weeks til the biggest side effects had gone away. Then i had champagne cocktails, not that i'm saying you should have alcohol so soon after treatment but you certainly deserve it! That is one of those occasions where you go to a restaurant and ask for there most expensive bottle!
CC. how are you feeling? when do you get the biopsy results? i am praying with everyone else on here that it is good results.
xxxxxx
singer78
10-31-2007, 07:12 PM
Yes, Happy Halloween to you, too, Amanda.
You know, I'm too superstitious for my own good.
I'm not planning anything until I hear the words, "in remission," or "clean bill of health," or--whatever else they say that I so badly want to hear. I'm afraid I'll jinx myself.
But, when I DO hear those words---Party Hearty!!!
My husband and I were talking about our future, and I think (God willing) we're going to have a complete change, as in our line of work.
I've been wanting to relocate for years & years.
The psychologist I went to, more or less said, "what have you been waiting for?" Of course, she meant, after I'm well.
I haven't had any alcohol at all, since my dx.
I bet the tiniest sip would throw me for a loop. :dizzy:
I've certainly had my share of sweets, though (Halloween candy)....and then, my husband brought home a key-lime pie yesterday! I think he doesn't want me to lose weight. Key lime pie is my all-time favorite.
I think CC put in a "rush order" for her biopsy report, if I'm correct.
I certainly hope she hears real soon, and doesn't have to wait-out the weekend.
(If you do, CC, you know I'm always here for you to talk to during the weekend......)
love, S.
You know, I'm too superstitious for my own good.
I'm not planning anything until I hear the words, "in remission," or "clean bill of health," or--whatever else they say that I so badly want to hear. I'm afraid I'll jinx myself.
But, when I DO hear those words---Party Hearty!!!
My husband and I were talking about our future, and I think (God willing) we're going to have a complete change, as in our line of work.
I've been wanting to relocate for years & years.
The psychologist I went to, more or less said, "what have you been waiting for?" Of course, she meant, after I'm well.
I haven't had any alcohol at all, since my dx.
I bet the tiniest sip would throw me for a loop. :dizzy:
I've certainly had my share of sweets, though (Halloween candy)....and then, my husband brought home a key-lime pie yesterday! I think he doesn't want me to lose weight. Key lime pie is my all-time favorite.
I think CC put in a "rush order" for her biopsy report, if I'm correct.
I certainly hope she hears real soon, and doesn't have to wait-out the weekend.
(If you do, CC, you know I'm always here for you to talk to during the weekend......)
love, S.
LINDA505
10-31-2007, 10:11 PM
Well we had a big Halloween here. Almost 300 kids. They were so darn cute.
We closed it down a few minutes ago. I am tired now. The weather is beautiful...cool and clear. It was alot of fun.
Well, the news today is a bummer. My brother started to bleed last night in his mouth and would not stop. Then every time he urinated small blood clots were coming out. They checked his platelets and they were less than 4,000.
They think now that they got his blood mixed up with someone else in better
shape. I kind of thought it was too good to be true. They of course did not have any blood sample left to retest so that is weird too. Usually the lab will hold the blood for 5 days. I am upset but my brother said nothing has really changed except that he is disappointed and his mouth is bleeding (gums). They will give him this drug to stop that. I wish before they start to give good news that they check to be sure. Usually if you get unexpected results whether they are good or bad they need to be checked and rechecked. I have seen so many major screw ups but when you are in a critical setting you do not expect this to happen. We will still keep our prayers going. Just
another bump in the road. Don said that well I guess God just wants me to know that this is not an easy road and do not take anything for granted. He is so
dear.
Have a nice evening. Celebrate each day no matter what it is , it is better than no day at all.
Love
Linda
We closed it down a few minutes ago. I am tired now. The weather is beautiful...cool and clear. It was alot of fun.
Well, the news today is a bummer. My brother started to bleed last night in his mouth and would not stop. Then every time he urinated small blood clots were coming out. They checked his platelets and they were less than 4,000.
They think now that they got his blood mixed up with someone else in better
shape. I kind of thought it was too good to be true. They of course did not have any blood sample left to retest so that is weird too. Usually the lab will hold the blood for 5 days. I am upset but my brother said nothing has really changed except that he is disappointed and his mouth is bleeding (gums). They will give him this drug to stop that. I wish before they start to give good news that they check to be sure. Usually if you get unexpected results whether they are good or bad they need to be checked and rechecked. I have seen so many major screw ups but when you are in a critical setting you do not expect this to happen. We will still keep our prayers going. Just
another bump in the road. Don said that well I guess God just wants me to know that this is not an easy road and do not take anything for granted. He is so
dear.
Have a nice evening. Celebrate each day no matter what it is , it is better than no day at all.
Love
Linda
singer78
11-01-2007, 01:21 PM
Linda,
My goodness...that's totally unacceptible, that they would "mix" up Don's blood with someone else's. Makes you completely wonder about our medical community, doesn't it?
I feel so bad, they did that. It's bad enough going through everything--and then on top of it all, give you & the family the wrong report?
I'm constantly worrying during radiation, thinking that the tech's are not paying full attention. You remember a few days back, when they dropped my tray? No one was going to do anything about it. Everyone's watching their "own" back.
Keep us posted on Don's situation. Poor guy. Like you said, "yet, another bump in the road."
I can't believe it's November, already.
I just finished #14 rad. One more this week....then the weekend off.
I can't believe how much I look forward to sleeping in. I'm not a morning person---never have been....and since I've cut down on my caffeine consumption, it makes it doubly hard.
Kayla---are you out there?
Heard anything?
It's sunny here today, but crisp. You can tell winter is peeping around the corner. Someone told me we're expecting snow next week. That's o.k.
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow....
I basically like it, until after Xmas.
Have a good day.
love, S.
My goodness...that's totally unacceptible, that they would "mix" up Don's blood with someone else's. Makes you completely wonder about our medical community, doesn't it?
I feel so bad, they did that. It's bad enough going through everything--and then on top of it all, give you & the family the wrong report?
I'm constantly worrying during radiation, thinking that the tech's are not paying full attention. You remember a few days back, when they dropped my tray? No one was going to do anything about it. Everyone's watching their "own" back.
Keep us posted on Don's situation. Poor guy. Like you said, "yet, another bump in the road."
I can't believe it's November, already.
I just finished #14 rad. One more this week....then the weekend off.
I can't believe how much I look forward to sleeping in. I'm not a morning person---never have been....and since I've cut down on my caffeine consumption, it makes it doubly hard.
Kayla---are you out there?
Heard anything?
It's sunny here today, but crisp. You can tell winter is peeping around the corner. Someone told me we're expecting snow next week. That's o.k.
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow....
I basically like it, until after Xmas.
Have a good day.
love, S.