The Eve of the Komen Walk

We have had a wonderful few days. Kelly arrived from Tacoma on Thursday and Lisa arrived today from Chicago. Unfortunatly Sharon's sisters Sandra and Susan didn't get to make the trip, Susan she has the flu. Lisa is decorating her team shirt and Kelly is making our team poster. They will definately see us!! I am sitting on the couch watching repeats of The Addams Family!

I had my last round of chemo last Wednesday so am feeling a bit tired today. I think I have rocks in my head to think I can walk three miles tomorrow. But I am giving it my best shot!! It will be an incredible day. We have 32 walkers on our team "Rhonda's Follies Boobgere" and have raised almost $3000. I am overwhelmed at the support friends, family and coworkers have shown.

Stay tuned for team pictures!!

Flu Season is here

It still amazes me that we are finding humor in the side-effects of chemotherapy. Out of the blue, Rhonda announces to me that she doesn't have hair on her fingers any more. This revelation leads to the eye brows, which no longer need to be tweezed (I would love that by the way). After 4 rounds, we have fallen into a routine, knowing what to expect from day to day in each cycle and noticing little changes.

As far as I go, my "fear level" has escalated because of the flu season. I fear that her co-workers and the general population who are sick will not have enough common sense to stay away. Okay so I shouldn't say this but all of you know that on occasion Rhonda is a little stubborn and takes risks (like flying to Mississippi on a commercial airline) that I am not happy about. So we will pass on public activities for now and make up for it in a couple of months.

I don't think we can tell our friends and family enough how much we love you.

It seems like it has been a long time since my last treatment. I have my 4th treatment this Wednesday and then only 2 more to go.



We went last weekend and I had my head shaved. Most of it had fallen out but what was left was 1/4" and made me feel self conscious. Sharon said it looked like an ostrich head. I feel better with it shaved. I won't feel bad or embarrased if my scarf comes off now.



We are excited about the Komen walk and all the friends who are walking with us. We think we'll have about 30 walkers on our team. We are almost halfway to our fundraising goal. We appreciate any donation you can give. Click the link below and it will take you to our team.
http://austin.info-komen.org/site/TR/RacefortheCure/AUS_AustinAffiliate/926066142?pg=team&fr_id=1240&team_id=116100

I am certainly ready for this to be over. Until next time...

Half Way

Well, I am halfway finished with my treatment. I feel pretty good after this one. Of course I didn't sleep much last nigth and I have Hoosier on my lap as I type this.

We are gearing up for the Race for The Cure Walk. There is still time to support our team "Rhonda's Follies Boobgere".

I will blog some more later. Can't type with Hoosier here. he is demanding my full attention.

Rhonda

Update

Thank you to everyone who has registered to walk with us and who have donated to our team. I think we are going to have about 30 walkers on our team and that is truly amazing to me!! We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for the donations, I think we are going to beat our goal.

I have my third treatment this coming Wednesday and then only 3 more. I am glad to think it is halfway over. Overall, I am feeling ok. I have had some bad muscle pain but there are drugs for that. I haven't had a lot of nausea because there are drugs for that. I have had some trouble sleeping and there are also drugs for that. Whatever the side effect, there are drugs for that. The point is to not suffer through and I am grateful for modern medicine.

I have been traveling some with work and leave again on the 31st. It drives Sharon nutty. I am careful about being around people and don't do any more than I have too. This will be my last trip until I finish treatment.

That's about it right now.
More later.
Rhonda

Rhonda's Follies Boobgere

Please join us for Race for the Cure. Click the link below to join our team. Thank you!!

http://austin.info-komen.org/site/TR/RacefortheCure/AUS_AustinAffiliate/926066142?pg=team&fr_id=1240&team_id=116100

Hope to see you on Race Day!!
Rhonda

Race for the Cure Team Name Contest

We are having a contest for our Race for the Cure Team name. The Race/Walk/Crawl/Ride is Sunday Nov 1 in Austin. I have uploaded the t-shirt design (by Sigrid K. Zahner) to inspire you.The winner will receive One dozen world famous, Round Rock Donuts and a t-shirt of course. We will announce the winner on Sunday, August 16, 2009.

My first week without hair

Well, the first week without hair is almost over. It has been a week full of anxiety and apprehension. But, I think it is getting better. Of course the Xanax the doctor gave me will help!!

Siggy is here making me hats. She knitted the cutest and softest hat for me. It's awesome!! She also made me some sleep hats too that are nice and soft.

More later.

#2

I finished treatment #2. I didn't sleep very well last night, but it's the steroids that I have to take. So far, not too much nausea. They say that comes on the 3rd or 4th day when the steroids leave your body. I am hoping it won't be too bad.

Sharon and Siggy went off shopping. I am going for a nap. They are working on the shirt design for the Race for the Cure on Nov 1. It will be awesome!!

I'll write more later.

It's a new day

I was feeling a bit depressed yesterday at the fact I now have to wear a scarf, bandana, something to cover the bald spots. I liked my hair that short, it was kind of fun and sassy!!

Now, it's a new day. The cancer is real. It is visible to everyone. I think one reason I have been able to keep a positive attitude is I could "hide" it. I will have to work harder at having a strong, positive attitude. And I will!

I am glad Siggy is coming for a visit. She arrives tomorrow with a new, pink hat for me to wear around the house, to sleep, where ever I feel like wearing it. It will be good for Sharon too, she deserves to laugh and have some fun. She is working very hard at being a wonderful caretaker, making sure I eat right, drink enough, stay healthy.

More about Hair

Today was the day my hair started falling out by the handful. As you can see, I have a new look. It wasn't as difficult as I had thought it would be, but I think it was for Sharon. Anyone who wants to copy me it is a '4' on the clipper setting!! LOL.

Sharon thinks we should shave Hoosier just for kicks, but I won't allow it!! He is doing better since we changed his food. He isn't as cranky.

Hugs,
Rhonda and Sharon

Hair

What is it about hair that defines us, or at least we think it defines us? I didn't think I would be bothered as much about losing my hair as I am. I am more vane than I wanted to admit. Is it because now it's in your face I have breast cancer? Or is it because I am worried what other people will think about how I look? Or is it because I am afraid? All of those seem to be a logical choice for how I feel. In reality, it is just hair. It doesn't really define me as a person. I will be the same person inside without hair as I am with it. And it is only temporary. By mid-November it will be growing back. The positive side, and I think there is always a positive side, I am losing it when it is hotter than hell in Austin. I can get out of bed, wash my little head and put on a scarf or bandana for the day and away I go.

So, by the end of the week I will have to go and get it shaved. This morning was the first day it started coming out. I knew this week would be it as my scalp has been more sensitive the past few days. I guess this starts the next part of the journey.

My next treatment is next Wednesday, after that, only 4 more to go!

Race for the Cure - Austin

Join us in our Race for the Cure in Austin on Sunday, November 1, 2009. We are putting a team of walkers together. We would love it if you can join us in the walk. The t-shirt design is underway and we are taking team name suggestions.

I will have one last treatment when we complete the walk. Thank you for your support!!

Rhonda and Sharon

Fighting Like a Girl

This week hasn't been as bad as I may have expected. The one thing that surprised me the most was the immediate effects the chemotherapy drugs have had on me. I have lost most of my taste buds so if the food doesn't taste 'bad' then it must be good. Sharon is wonderful, of course I have said that on many occasions. She is making sure I eat healthier with more fiber, fruits and vegetables. I know this is exceptionally difficult for her as well.

This week should be better with my energy level returning to more normal levels. This week is also the week when I am most susceptible to infections and fever. I just have to try and be careful and stay strong.

We went today and washed the car, went to the grocery store and then she gave me a wonderful pedicure. I am wearing 'Such a Kareoke Queen' pink. Tomorrow, it's back to work.

The New Normal

We are one week in to the chemo treatment, and all is going well. I think the tough part of being the "caretaker" is not really having any ability to make things better. I truely can't imagine what chemo feels like and I am inspired by Rhondas spirit and desire to make the best of everyday and this experience. I wonder if I would be as strong in her position.

Everyday is new, I mean what foods are good, what side-effects are being managed. At least for the next 18weeks life will be different for both of us. The one thing that I am cetain of is that we will both learn something from this experience. Our friends and family are strong and amazing people (which I think we knew).

Love,

Sharon

Chemo is underway

I had my first treatment yesterday. Overall, I am doing pretty well I think. The research nurse failed to call in my nausea medication and steroids that I was suppose to take the day before treatment. I had to take it through the iv and the doc then gave me a prescription. Needless to say last night I had a rougher night than I may have. I didn't get to sleep until after midnight and slept about 3 hours. The doctor was visibly pissed off at her nurse. She handled it well, but you could tell. When she did get a hold of the nurse, she was at home sleeping, she was sick.

Sharon is wonderful. She made banana bread for me. Of course, i had about 8 frozen bananas in the freezer. I have this tendency to put them in the freezer when they are too ripe.

We are going this weekend to buy some scarves and or hats for the hair loss. It should be gone before the next treatment in three weeks. I am getting it cut really short this weekend. I have read it helps me and the people I am around to adjust. Sharon says she will draw my eyebrows on every morning. I told her if I am in a mood, to give it an arch or some funny shape. She didn't think that was funny.

I am going to make it an early night, I am pooped. I will write more later and we'll post pictures this weekend.

Rhonda

Points to Ponder

This week has been especially difficult because I am working in Mississippi, and Sharon is at home in Austin. I think Sharon and I are both nervous for chemo to start. I have very conflicting emotions that I am trying to work through and it's difficult. The doctor's and the pathology say my lymph nodes are negative which is awesome, so no more cancer. I have to begin an agressive course of chemotherapy on Monday because the cancer was an agressive growing tumor. We are treating what COULD be. I don't feel sick, but the numerous tests I have had to go through to get to this point make me question it all. In my heart, I know I am fine, I will be fine, will always be cancer free, but there is that little inkling that sometimes makes me afraid; what if......

So, Monday is the day. I have to get there at 11:30 am. The first treatment will take about 4 hours. I will be brave and try not to cry, very much. In all honesty, I think its the chemo I am more afraid of than the surgery.

Update

Sorry, we have been out of touch, we had Kelly's wedding to get ready for. The wedding was Saturday night. She was beautiful, the ceremony was beautiful, and we had great weather. It's very hard to believe Kelly is married now. They went to Thailand for their honeymoon.

I had a MUGA heart test yesterday and they inserted the Porta-Cath. I have been randomized for 6 weeks of TAC chemo drugs. I am scheduled to begin on July 13. I have to be out of town all of next week in MS for work so I have to wait.

Thank you for keeping tabs on us. We will post more over the weekend and more pictures also.

Love you guys,
Rhonda

Part 2

I finished my first week back to work and I feel pretty good. I have to say the beginning of the week was very tiring, but by the time Friday rolled around, I felt pretty good.

We are getting ready for the next phase of our journey, chemotherapy. I have to say this part scares me the most. Monday we have to meet with the surgeon to talk about putting in the port. I have small veins plus the chemo cocktail can damage the veins so the port is the way to go. Monday afternoon I have to have an MRI to make sure they don't see anything else. They are doing this because the type of cancer changed from biopsy to surgery. The oncologist told me it was a fast growing cancer and I have a good chance of getting it somewhere else in my body. Even though the lymph nodes were negative, we are treating this agressively. I will have 6 treatments, every 3 weeks for 18 weeks and then Tamoxifin for 5 years and then another drug for 5 years. I will lose my hair about the 2nd week after the first round. I anticipate the first treatment to be on or about July 7.

One of our other friends in Chicago was also recently diagnosed. Please put Barbara in your prayers.

Stay tuned........
Rhonda

Tuesday

Today was my 2nd day back to work. Overall I feel pretty good. I am still pretty sore but ok overall.

We go back to the oncologist on Thursday afternoon to meet with the research nurse to learn more about clinical trials. I am undecided if I want to go this route.

I am off to bed, I'll write more in a day or so.

Rhonda

SO....

A lot has changed in the last few days. Yesterday, we went to the general surgeon to find out the diagnosis had changed from the biopsy to the surgery. What this means - I don't have garden variety breast cancer, Ductal Carcinoma in Situ, I have Lobular Carcinoma in Situ. The primary difference there is a greater chance it will reoccur in the right side. Needless to say, Sharon and I were upset as we may have made different surgical decisions.

Today, we saw the oncologist. She is great. We were more relieved after meeting with her. She said the treatment recommendations would have been the same with either diagnosis. She is going to talk to pathology to find out how this happened. There are also answers she wants as the pathology contradicts itself in a few places. We are confident she will do what needs to be done and help us with the answers we need.

Next steps: I agreed to clinical trials for chemotherapy if I am a candidate. I will undergo 4-6 treatments (12-18 weeks) depending if I am on the clinical trial or not. Additional tests will need to be done if I am eligible. God bless the women before me for taking part in the clinical trials. I want to do my part if I can. After chemo, I will take Amoxifen for 5 years and then another pill for 5 years after that. We are treating the risk factors at this point.

A lot of information, but it has been a busy, emotional few days. Thanks for being a part of our journey.

Rhonda and Sharon

Mark, you knew I would keep it interesting!!

Tuesday

It is hard to believe it has been almost two weeks since I had surgery. I am doing better every day, and the pain is becoming manageable by Tylenol.

Sharon has taken me shopping a few times to get out of the apt. I did pretty well. I did get pooped out over the weekend when we went for donuts, and then to Barnes and Noble and to Marshall's. I had a long nap afterwards though.

We go to the general surgeon this afternoon. We should find out if chemo is the next step. we'll keep you posted.

Rhonda

Saturday

Well, today we went to Wally World. Sharon pushed me around in a wheel chair so I wouldn't poop out. It was really good to get out of the house.

Sharon and my mom are getting a new look, thanks to Clairol!!

We are going to Rudy's to pick up BBQ for dinner. We'll pick up brisket and smoked sausage. YUM YUM! wish you all were here.

I think tomorrow morning we are going to Round Rock Donuts. If you haven't been there, you will have to try it when you come for a visit. They are very good, and so good for you!!

Have a wonderful weekend.
Rhonda

Friday

It is hard to believe it has been a week since the surgery. I am doing pretty well overall. I feel better every day.

I have to admit I enjoy my naps and bubble baths the most!!

The plastic surgeon was very pleased and says it will take a few months for everything to heal and the swelling to go down.

We are going to take a drive to the bank and mail some cards. Tomorrow we are going to splurge and go to Round Rock Donuts.

Have a great weekend.
Rhonda and Sharon

Thank You

Thank you to our friends and family for the beautiful flowers, cards, emails, thoughts and prayers. We appreciate them very much.

Rhonda and Sharon

Wednesday

Today is a good day. I am officially ready to be well and back to it. I am tired of laying in bed and sleeping on my back sitting up.

My mom is going to stay with a friend tonight. I think she will stay with us until mid next week. It's good to have her here.

We go to see the doctor tomorrow for the first time. It will be good to get out of the house, even though it's hotter than hell with high humidity.

Chat with you later.

Tuesday

Well, we removed the dressings last night. It wasn't as bad as I expected. Dr. Hooterific did a really good job. Of course I have a lot of swelling and that will take time.

I am headed for a nap. Sharon made a nice breakfast for us.

I will check in later.

Monday

I am doing pretty well today. My mom has been here and my cousin Mike drove down from OKC. So I did get a little pooped out sitting up trying to be the center of attention!

Hoosier has been very protective and didn't want my mom around me the first day. He doesn't like her anyway. he is adjusting, too.

Sharon is doing ok, I think we are adjusting to a schedule of pain meds and taking naps.

I can take the dressing off today and have a bath. I am nervous about removing the dressing, but know it will be ok. It will be a shock at first I am sure.

I am going to lay back down for a nap. You can't take too many naps!

Rhonda and Sharon

It's better on drugs

i made it home about 8pm last night and I am definately higher than a kite right now!! sharon just made my mom and I breakfast and is now making me an iced mocha. I have two great nurses with Sharon and my mom waiting on me at my beck and call

the surgeons said everything went very well. We will have the pathology report next week.

chat with you soon.

Rhonda

Today is a new day

Sharon and I are very happy today has arrived. We are looking forward to my recovery and being cancer free.

We'll post again in a day or so.

Love you guys!

Hospital Info

Well, Thursday is the day. I wanted to post the hospital info:

Seton Northwest Hospital
11113 Research Blvd.
Austin, TX 78759
(512) 324-6000

My surgery begins about 10/10:30 and I should be finished about 2:30/3. Sharon will be able to see me about 3:30pm. I am scheduled to go home on Saturday.

Sharon will have her cell phone and mine.
Rhonda 312-399-7692
Sharon 312-933-2143

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers!!

We will beat this. I know it.
Love,
Rhonda

Words of the Day

This weeks words of the day are:

Tuesday - KnockERIFIC
Wednesday - JugserIFIC

Thursday - thegirlsrIFIC - YES THEY ARE!!

I love trying to use these in sentences. It's so fun.

Pre-Op

Today, Sharon and I spent the morning going to the plastic surgeon and to the hospital for what they call "pre-op". What they need to call it is PRE-PAY!! Everyone wants their part up front. I have to say I became a bit annoyed with it all. Sign this, read that, sign here, and oh by the way you owe us $xxx.

We are all set for next week and we can have a relaxing Memorial Day Weekend. Thank you for staying in touch!!

Miss you all.
Love,
Rhonda

Word of the Day - Monday

Today's word of the day

- cha-chasERIFIC

I can't wait to hear how it is going to be used in sentences.

Word of the Day

Thanks to my brother John Lashmett for making me laugh every day.

So far, the words of the day have been:

Wednesday - Booberific
Thursday - Hooterific, in honor of my plastic surgeon
Friday - Rackerific

Stay tuned next week for more Words of the Day!

Feelings

I think I am have difficulty expressing my feelings because I don't know how I feel. It doesn't feel real. It isn't suppose to happen to me. Breast cancer doesn't happen to my family and close friends, much less to me. Am I suppose to feel a certain way? If so, what exactly?I guess they call that denial. So, when will it feel real?

Thank you to our friends and family who will be by our side throughout this battle. We appreciate your love and support and couldn't make it without you.

Love and hugs.
Rhonda

Remember to breathe...

There has always been someone to tell me to take a breathe when things were tough. Friends and family are the people who keep you laughing and remind you that you can't be defined by any one moment of crisis.

Rhonda and I have an amazing circle of people that surround and support us. I want to thank you for your friendship and love. There are no words to adequately express how much you mean to us.

Sharon