and yet more pics!

more pics

Thank you for dropping by...Merry Christmas

We thoroughly enjoyed seeing all of you that stopped by last night. It was nice to say thanks in person What really amazed me was how many of you knew each other, but didn't realize that you also knew me. I kept hearing, "what are you doing here" in the friendliest of terms mind you. That was really fun. I realized that I should have had more food, when later in the evening, Sonny and friends sat down around the table and scarfed down what remained.

I am supposed to be at my sister's house in the Palisades tonight for Christmas Eve, and spending the night. Instead I am here taking care of Colin who came down with the 24 hr. flu today..(I spoke to the pharmacist who said this was a contact virus, not airborne,,,so unless you kissed Colin,,,or shared a drink you should be fine). I have finished cleaning up, the party, not Colin,,,(I think I will be busy with that for awhile) and am now on the couch trying to find a suitable Christmas movie.

God Bless you all,

and Merry Christmas!

Thank You Holiday Party

Nancy, Sonny, Colin and Mairin, hope you can stop by for:

A Holiday Open House
On Sunday, December 23, 5-10 PM


We want to say thank you for all of your support of our family during these last trying 6 months.
Please stop by so we can express our gratitude in person.

Not necessary, but if you want to rsvp...send it to nmccrack@aol.com

Sonny and the Ivy League Championship Cup

Genetic test

My genetic test for the breast cancer gene is NEGATIVE! Yeah, some good news at last.
Thanks for keepiing me in your prayers.
Nancy

Mairin's sweet 16

Mairin is 16! It seems like yesterday that I was surprised with the birth of my baby girl, after 2 boys. And now she is almost all grown up! The sweet 16 party was great, she has such great friends. Thank you for celebrating with her. She had an amazing party/

next chapter of my life

Hi there friends of my blog
I am sorry that I have not been updating on a consistent basis. I know that you all are busy too. Once I got back from Harvard, it was Thanksgiving, then planning Mairin's sweet 16 and all of a sudden it is Nov. 3o!
Because this blog was started to keep friends and family updated on my attack on the cancer that had invaded my body...I feel like I should give you an update on the latest.
I am now taking Arimidex, daily for the next 5 years. This is a pill for estrogen positive cancers, it has shown much success in killing any leftover cells that are cruising around the body. The major consideration for side-effects is on the bone density..I take 1500 mg of calcium daily along with vitamins and fish oil. I am seeing my plastic surgeon to get my flat chest ready for the removal of the hard plastic shapers, and the insert of the natural placeholders.
The secondary side effect is the hot flashes in the middle of the night. Not bad enough to wake me up...but a run for the shower in the morning. Things like this might have made me crazy 6 months ago, but with all I've been through, it is really just a bump on the radar.
The future appointments for me will include a check up with my oncologist every 3 months, and my surgeon every 4 months, and my plastic surgeon frequently until I'm "reconstructed".
I may have to meet with a vascular surgeon to figure out the best course of treatment for my blood clot, that is stubbornly taking a long time to vanish.
The most anxiety producing doctor appointment is coming up this Monday. I will be meeting with my Genetic Dr. who will give me the results of my blood tests, to determine weather I carry the Bracca 1 or 2 gene. We really anticipate a negative test, based on my family history and a whole host of questions and answers that I had to provide. This is a plug for HMO's and Kaiser Permanente who will provide this test even if I didn't fall into the percentage of patients that might prove positive. Many PPO's will only provide this test if there are certain indicators in the family history. There is only one testing site in the US, and it is in Utah. Very expensive if your insurance doesn't cover it.
The downside is , I have to prepare myself for a positive result. If I am positive I will have to have immediate surgery to remove my ovaries. Ovarian cancer is highly probable with this diagnosis. Worse, I will have to have my daughter tested, and also tell my sisters, and even the boys in my family will have an increase in prostate cancers. This is so much for me to feel responsible for. We'll deal with it if it happens, but I really don't think we will be in this group.

On a good note, I went to work this week, and spent many hours on a business plan on how to attack this crazy real estate market. We also spent time on a marketing plan for listings we have to get them sold! It is amazing to me to see the agents that are still in the business are the ones that have been through the tough times of the 90's and also those agents that are savvy,,,and willing to work the hours...and hours that it will take to get clients out of this market downturn. Many agents are now working for Costco or seasonal work...or just evaporated...from the marketplace. I am committed to doing the time. It was great to put a plan into place ....I am the realtor for all of your needs in the year 2008!

I have a special thank you for my friends that provided me the services of Holly Maids. I can't even tell you how much it meant to me 1to come home to a spic and span home..!...THANK YOU!

I am humbled by your support.

Nancy

Ivy League Championship

What a weekend! Harvard blew Yale away in "The Game"! Karrie, Michael and I had an incredible time. I almost completely forgot about the "C" except that it was cold and my head would feel frozen. It was so much fun to see these guys all celebrating their win, after a long football season. More pics to follow! Just flew in, Sonny crashed out on the couch.

Happy Turkey Day all!

Love,

Nancy

I'm going, I'm going!

I can't believe it, when I was first diagnosed in June, I prayed that I would be able to make it back to Boston for the Harvard/Yale game. I have had it on my calendar. The blood clot seemed like it might derail me, then my extreme fatigue made the trip seem implausible.
But I'm packed and ready to go! I don't think I would have been able to make it if my sister Karrie was not going with me. She has been such a pillar of strength for me. I know I can lean on her if I start to fade. We leave early tomorrow and arrive in Boston in the afternoon. It was strange packing for a cold, almost frigid east coast when the weather here was a balmy 80 today! We will take a booster bus from Harvard Sat. am to New Haven. We will then meet up with Uncle Michael who will join us for the game. We'll cruise the infamous tailgates (they started here after all, over a hundred years ago...although I think it must have been horse and buggy gates!). Both Harvard and Yale are undefeated in the Ivy League, so this game is for the championship.
We will be attending the football banquet on Mon. and then flying back on Tues. morning. Sonny will be joining us and spend some days at home recuperating from a brutal football season. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Love,
Nancy
PS..Good luck Mission in the CIF round against Orange Lutheran!

latest updates

Hi friends and family,
I know it has been awhile since I last blogged in. Since my last entry I have had doctor appmts. with my Oncologist, and also my surgeon, and the Genetics doctor who counseled me on the BRACCA 1 & 2 tests for hereditary breast cancer markers. All three of them gave me the same advice regarding this frustrating blood clot. Be patient, and move it, and use hot compresses. They expect that it will take a couple of months before it gets reabsorbed. My surgeon actually showed me a chart with all of the veins of the arm on it. I feel that I know have a better understanding of the situation. Once I get the results of the genetic test back, it may open or close another entire round of action. However, I won't even mention those until I get the results back. I have 2 more doctors appmts. tomorrow. One is the bone scan, that will serve as the baseline for starting my 5 years of Arimedex. One potential side effect is the reduction of bone density. At least I get to have a pill I will take everyday that will give me some confidence that I am still fighting any potential cancer cells that slipped through the chemotherapy.
I have started walking the lake, one lap is one mile. I can do it! Yeah! But have been sore after the three days of doing it. I am bound and determined to keep it up. The dogs are benefiting also.
What felt really good was picking up the phone and talking with Realtors. I wanted to talk with all of the ones that had been through my listings, and make sure they were aware that they were active and on the market. I actually had many great conversations with Realtors out there in this crazy market. Generally, the feeling was good that the lowering of interest rates, and less homes on the market during the onset of the holiday season, more homes were going to be moving. Do any of you reading this know of anyone that needs to buy a home in Rancho Santa Margarita? Or have one to sell? Call me!
Thanks for checking in with me. I hope to get to the MV football game this Friday to watch Mairin cheer. Then next week, I am going to Boston to watch the Harvard/Yale game. It will be televised here on the west coast at 9 am in the morning. Check it out!
Love
Nancy

Baring the bald ........

Well, I somehow came up with the courage to bare my bald head. I am wearing a little smirk because, I know that my hair will now start growing back, and how I miss it!

It better not come back totally gray!

Love, Nancy

Isolation again, but for the last time!

I almost didn't even post this latest blood count ( WBC is .8, neutrophils 200). I really have to be extra careful. I am extremly vulnerable right now. These counts are way below even my lowest of lows. However, this is the last time that I will have to deal with this. Yeah!!!
I'm back on antibiotics for a week, and off produce, etc.
I can only hope that my blood clot leaves, at the same time my blood counts rebound!
I can't even describe how ready I am to begin my life again!
Thank you to MaryVictoria, and the Clellands for dinner this week.
Sincerely,
Nancy McCracken

The fire

Wendy Klapp sent me this photo of the fires raging behind Lake Mission Viejo. Believe me, it was an incredible few days. We still have this fire buring in the hills, but it looks like they are battling it back. This morning I actually saw some blue sky, to the south of us. Haven't seen that since last weekend. I feel much more optimistic!

Sonny

This is Sonny in action! Notice his left arm, with MOM on the wrist! I asked him if anyone gave him a hard time about it,,he said, "I dare them!". But, his teammates are terrific.

Fires and smoke

We heard last night that the fires were moving in our direction. Colin went down the hill and spoke with the firefighters/sheriff's who were blocking the road to the canyon. We could actually see the fires from our home. Scary!
Colin in his "want to be a firefighter mode" decided it was best to be prepared, just in case. He made lists for each of us to be responsible for, in case of evacuation.
Having only one good arm, I was responsible for my purse, and my laptop.
Colin was in charge of the dogs, bird, firebox of documents, photos, video's, surfboards, snowboard, his laptop, and some clothes.
Mairin was assigned her laptop, and Jackie Chan-- the Siamese Fighting Fish, in a glass bowl, no less.
Colin explained Mairin's short list, with the typical older brother explanation, that she would be so riled up, that she wouldn't be of much use.
Although today was a little anxious, I was still able to take my nap!
School is cancelled for tomorrow.
I am thankful that our home is OK, as is our neighborhood. Thank you for all of the calls and emails, I think everyone now knows where Trabuco Canyon is!
Thanks for checking in on us,
Nancy
PS, for those of you following Sonny's football season, they won against Princeton last weekend. He played great and really enjoyed being back on the field, after 3 weeks off. The bad news is that he now has a sports hernia, and will require surgery after the season. He is still planning to play through the remainder of the season.

Clot update and fires nearby

Hi there. I had a new ultrasound today to track the "clot". It is a little larger, and further up my arm. She asked me if I was using it "normally". I said no, it hurt to move it. She gave me a prescription for a pain reliever/ mild blood thinner. She wants me to try and start using it to stop the clot from getting larger. Will do!
She also said that it may take a couple of months for this clot to go away. It is a slow process. While I was waiting for my ultrasound, I ran into my surgeon, Dr.Rand-Luby. We talked about my clot, and she felt it was def. related to my last chemo. and that I should try and move it more. She gave me some mental relief.
Many of you have asked about where the fires are in relation to our home. We are OK. I can actually look at the mountains, and see blue sky above us. However, Trabuco Canyon, down in the actual canyon, has been evacuated. It is a very hard place to get to, and only one way out. Many horse trailers and vehicles are lined up on our main street coming up to my house. Kind of spooky. A colleague from work, also runs an animal rescue in Modjeska Canyoon, which has been hit pretty hard with fires. He evacuated with all the animals, but I haven't heard about his home yet. I wish I could have helped him and his animals.

Harvard vs. Princeton game

Hi friends,
Sonny's game is on Direct TV, channell 623 Saturday, 9:30 west coast time. He is #49. He won't be starting, but they are working him back into the lineup after being out with injuries the last 3 games. He is eager!
Nothing new to report on me.
Thanks for your newsy emails,,,they really help pass the time.
Love,
Nancy

Scary Day

Hi friends,
The last couple of days I felt increasing pain in my left arm. I just thought it was a result of the chemo, and the multiple blood tests last week. It really started to bother me last night so I called the doctor and went in today. After spending all day at the doctor, and then the hospital, it turns out I have a small blood clot on the inside elbow of my arm. I was really scared and cried like a baby. The good news is that I got to come home, and we are just going to monitor the "clot". ( I have to digress here, how descriptive is the word "clot" anyway? It sounds exactly like what it is....gross.!) I am applying a warm pack, and am heading off to bed soon, I am worn out.
Such a roller-coaster ride that I am on! And for those of you that know me well, I hate roller-coasters!
Good night, (I will have to catch Dancing with the Stars on tape tomorrow!)
Nancy

homecoming photos

DONE WITH CHEMO!

Yesterday was my last chemo. There was a very good chance that I wasn't going to have it, because my counts were so low on Thursday. I had to go retake it on Friday morning, then wait around for the results. There were some problems with the equipment, and we waited from 10 until 2 for the results. It was a go, so I got hooked up at 2 and we left at 4:30. Thank God I had my mother-in-law Micheline with me, because we chat so much that the time really flew by.
Thursday night I had a scare, Colin texted me from his room at 3 am and said he thought he had strep throat! I was quaking in my sheets! NO, NO, you can't get strep! I texted him back to tell him where the medicine was, and how much to take and I would set up a doctor appmt. for him in the morning. Needless to say I was worried about him, and me! I left for my doctor, and left him at home to go to the doctor. His Dad was meeting him there. No strep, but some sort of virus.
Colin and Mairin both had Homecoming tonight. When I download the pics I will post them.
Colin made it for pics and dinner, then had to go home and crash out.
I had great meals this week from Beth, and MaryAvis. Such a welcome for me and especially my kids. I also received a beautiful plant from Leslie, Heidi and Bec, in celebration of my last chemo. I am very thankful that this is my last chemo, but I don't feel too celebratory yet. It seems like each round left me a little more worn out than the last. Soon though, soon!
Sonny update, Harvard played Lafeyette today. It was a good game. Sonny was not cleared again because of his lingering shoulder injury. But he let his coach know he was not too happy about it. Next weekend is the Princeton game, and Sonny will have lots of family and friends in the stands, he vows he will play! They ended up winning today, in a very good game.
It was also a lot of fun to watch Mark pull in a victory for USC today! I could hear the Sanchez family shouting all the way to my house!
Last night I went to bed at 7 pm and woke at 8 am. Anyone ever done that? Wow. The dogs even cooperated, and held it. Now it is getting to be 9 pm...past my bedtime. I could get used to this.
Thanks for checking in on me.
Love,
Nancy

It's a Chilli night out!

Today the weather was overcast with a chance of rain. Perfect for Chilli! I had the ingredients, and threw it together. Colin was at the beach today, so it was a perfect meal to warm him up.
Mairin and I ate some too. We have leftovers for football Saturday.
I had my blood tests today. My lowest of low. I expect it. I keep reminding myself that it is a good sign that my chemo is also attacking the stray cancer cells. If it wipes out the good, strong cells, then those weak, mutant cancer cells don't stand a chance!
I have an action planned Saturday. Beginning with the Harvard vs. Cornell game, on a live webstreaming from Cornell, at 10. Sonny travelled with the team, but has not been cleared to play. His shoulder needs another week. He is bummed, but vows to be a great motivator on the sidelines. His team is suffering from numerous injuries right now. This is a big game for them.
Then at 4, USC, and hoping to see Mark Sanchez shine! Then my alma mater, UCLA and the Moline bros. at 5. And last but not least, the Mission Viejo HS vs. DeLaSalle on FoxSports at 8.
I'm a happy camper!
Thanks for checking in on me.
Nancy

One more chemo to go!

I had my doctor's appmt. on Mon. She consulted with her colleague, and they both agreed that there would not be enough of a benefit, vs. possible long term side effects, to recommend that I do Taxol. Yeah, no Taxol. This means that I will be done after Oct. 12! The homestretch. I wish that I had 3 doctors that all agreed that I should not have this next round, but I guess I will have to go with the 2/3.
I asked her about going to the DeLaSalle football game at Mission this Sat., and she basically said, "are you nuts?", with your blood counts? And only one more chemo to go? Risk getting sick, for football? OK, she is not a big fan of football, but I conceded. Plus, the game will be packed, and it is on TV after all.
My mother-in-law sent me the most gorgeous slinky long wrap yesterday! It is green, with flowers on it. I am def. not doing it justice in my description. I couldn't wait to wear it! Got up and dressed, put make-up on, donned the wig, and hit the office. I could have sold 10 of them if I had them! I felt pretty! Thanks Micheline!
Thanks for checking in on me,
Love,
Nancy

My wig.

Well, the weather has cooled off, and I feel like it was time to break out the wig! I think at this point, I am a little tired of wearing hats and being such an obvious "cancer patient". It is not very comfortable, my scalp is so sensitive. For short little jaunts, I guess it will work. In real life, it is a little too shiny, and tends to kind of "fly-away" with static, but I will really appreciate my own hair once it comes in again. I always kind of liked my hair. Although rumor has it, my new hair will be different than my last hair. Oh well. My new boobs will be different too. Maybe I will learn a new language too!
Today I had my blood test. I just feel like I know going into this, that I will be low in my counts and be back in isolation. That way I have no disappointments. Yup. I am at 2.2. However, my neutrophils are not yet critical, so I may actually venture off to church tomorrow. I have not been able to go since June.
Just when I expect people to start forgetting about me (isolation all the time, tends to put you off of the radar), I get cards, scarves, books, emails and meals. THANK YOU!
You really make this so much easier on me, showing me that you care.
I love you all!
Nancy

Just checking in.

Hi everyone. I'm hanging in there. I feel like each progressive chemo leaves me with less and less energy. However, by not doing anything, I am certainly not building up any stamina either. So, walking everyday, and doing the yoga dvd. Took Mairin homecoming dress shopping yesterday, so much fun! And spent hours on the phone brainstorming with work related people trying to figure out some way to get my perfect listings sold, or at least seen! I always feel so much more competent when I get into my real estate mode. I talked with some lenders about possible loans out there, and also some other agents to see what is working for them.
So many of you have emailed me and asked about Sonny. Thank you. He is tending to his injuries, arm in a sling and hand in a brace. He will find out today if he will travel with the team to Lehigh for the game this weekend. At this point it is up to his doctors. Of course, he wants to play if at all possible. Athletes!
I get my blood tested on Sat. to see if I once again have to go into isolation. As a precaution I will start taking anitbiotics. Can't get sick! I feel my nutritionist has helped with my chemo.
Off for a walk,
Thanks for checking in with me.
Love,
Nancy

Harvard defeats Brown!

In the first ever night game in Harvard history, it was a win for the Crimson! The final score was 24-17. As usual, it was a tight game. Brown scored all 17 of their points in the first half, and the Crimson defense was able to hold them to a total of 62 yds. in the second half. The Crimson had to bring in their 2nd string QB due to an injury, and after the first interception, he settled down and took them on two scoring drives. The defense had 3 interceptions, and lots of rushes on the QB. Sonny should be a happy guy!!!!
Update,,Sonny just called, he separated his left shoulder, and jammed his thumb on one hand, and his pinky on the other hand. He played the entire game though, said he was pumped up.
Has a sling and ice, and will get precautionary xrays on Monday. I can't really tell how bad it is because he probably doesn't want to worry me. These are the times I wish he was closer!

Back from chemo.

Well, it took a lot longer today. When I got there my blood pressure was 86/59, the lowest it has been. My temp was 99, high for me, I am usually in the 96 -97 range. I had to have a liter of saline before they could even start the chemo, then I got another one after. My blood pressure kicked up to 99/64. So we proceeded. We were in the new chemo center at the Kaiser off Sand Canyon. It was very nice, as were the nurses. The smile on my face is because I think I only have one more round to go!

I'm going in!

Well, my blood tests came back. My wbc is up to 3.3, (normal being 4) but my neutrophils are now within the normal range. So they said I could go ahead with the chemo, and stay on schedule. After today, I may have only one chemo left! Colin is taking me, and we go to the brand new chemo center at Sand Canyon today. He even gets a chair to stay with me! Last time he had to sit on the floor. Thanks for all of your thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Nancy

Latest blood test results ..and updates on life.

Yesterday I went in for my pre-chemo blood tests. My WBC is only up to 2.3, from 1.0. It is still not up to the normal range. My doctor decided to have me tested again in the morning, to determine if I can have chemo tomorrow afternoon, or will have to reschedule for next week. She didn't mention doing the neupogen shots, so I didn't ask.
I am going a little stir-crazy because I am not supposed to leave my house. The rain and chilly weather was so welcome! I made a yummy homemade tomato soup, a recipe from Oprah's new magazine, that we all enjoyed. I have also been doing the yoga dvd's that Mairin bought for me, along with some resistance band work.
On the real estate side of my life, the feds dropped the rates by half a point on Tuesday. We are hoping that this will spark some buyers into action! I have two turn-key homes that are ready for families to move right into, just in time for the holiday season. They are both located in RSM, and if you know anyone that might be interested, please log onto my website and check them out!
http://www.nancymccracken.com/ !!!!!
Colin and Mairin are well into the start of their new school year. They are both doing very well. They continue to be such a big help to me. I also have to thank the Conovers for driving Mairin home everyday, this has been such a big help to me.
Sonny finally got his class schedule worked out. He will be taking his 4th semester of Spanish, 2 Econ. classes, and a Greek mythology class. A full load when you factor in football on top of it.
This weekend they have the first night game ever held at Harvard, vs. Brown. If anyone wants to read more about his team, they can go to http://www.gocrimson.com/.
Special thanks to Deb and Lena for the dinners this week.
And last but not least, thank you to those that sent me emails. I really enjoy hearing from you, and about what is going on in your life. Keep them coming!
Love,
Nancy

Harvard's first game

Harvard played Holy Cross yesterday to kick off their season. Many good things happened on the field. The weather even cooperated, and the prediction of thunderstorms held off.
Unfortunately, HC scored the winning touchdown with 17 seconds left in the game. Harvard had the opportunity to win with a Hail Mary pass with 5 seconds left, but it fell to the ground.
This is the first time in 7 years that HC beat Harvard.
As the true team player that he is, Sonny was very disappointed. I was able to stream the game on the internet. Not making excuses, but the lineman that Sonny was going up against was 6'5 and 320 lbs!! I know that they will be working very hard this week preparing for the first ever night game in Harvard's history, vs. Brown this coming Saturday. They also start classes on Monday. Big week!
Meanwhile, I continue with my isolation and taking my antibiotics. I seem to be more tired lately too. I have been doing daily stretching, and yoga and taking naps. I am heading out to take the doggins for a little stroll. Gotta get out of the house!
thanks for checking up on me,
Nancy

How low can I go?

Today I had another follow up blood test, to see how I was rebounding from the low counts. While I was waiting to hear, Mairin and I went to SC pier and had lunch on the beautiful outdoor deck of Fisherman's Wharf. I am so glad we had that outing. For someone who has been cooped up since Sun. it was such a great treat. Then I got home to 4 phone messages, Dr, Pharmacist, Chemo nurse, and finally my doctor again. Couldn't be good.
To put it in perspective, when I was admitted to the hospital, my WBC was 1.7 and neutrophils were 425. Today my count was 1.0 and 200. Sun. my counts were 1.1 and 370. I am moving in the wrong direction. I immediately thought hospital and neupogen shots. When I reached my doctor, she asked about fever, (none) and if I had young kids at home (I don't consider teenagers young kids, so I said no). She called in a refill of my antibiotics
and said she was OK with me staying in my home, and monitoring my temp. She won't require me to do the shots, yet. She will retest my blood on Mon. If I don't show a change for the better, then we will make a decision.
The good news is , I feel pretty good. This low blood cell thing does not really make me feel any different. I do get worn out quickly though. I'll sleep well after my outing today.
We have been eating well too! Thank you to Kathy, Beth, Pat and Mary for all of the dinners. We really appreciate it.
Keep the emails coming, I love to hear from you! Just yesterday I got out all of my cards and re-read them. They made me smile!
Love,
Nancy

what a weekend

Today I found out that my blood tests from yesterday were in the critical level. I was so bummed! We expect low blood levels in all areas, but when they get too low, I become very suseptible to infections, which means,,,back in the hospital! My doctor put me on anitbiotics, and said I could stay at home, at least for now. I have to take my temp. to keep an eye out for infections, and if I get a temp, then off to the ER! So far my temp. is between 95 and 97. A little on the low side, but better than high. So I am in quarantine in my home for the next few days.

Thank you to Kathy for the homecooked meal tonight. More thanks go to the "mystery" Mom who stopped by with Subway on Thursday. Please let me know who you were so I can thank you in person. Maryavis stopped by with supplies from Costco, including a case of Smart water!
I am convinced that all of this Smart Water and my nutritionist products are helping me with my low blood pressure situation.

I made it to the MVHS football game for the first half. I enjoyed watching the game, and seeing the Song Girls! I didn't make it around to say hi to all of my Mission friends but I was a little concerned about germs. I love going to the football games and hope to be there this Friday, if I am able to be out of isolation. I want to be normal again! This whole chemo thing is getting really boring.

Thanks for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Nancy

Back in school and "normal" routines.

Well, today was the first day of the 07-08 school year. I can't believe that Mairin is a Soph. and Colin is a Junior! Where does the time go? I admit, I have been spoiled having them around so much to help me out. However, I am feeling good. Still have to nap at some point, but that is to be expected. I have found that if I make myself a list, no matter how short, then I can keep a realistic expectation of what I can get accomplished. Today, work will take priortity, now that school is in session, let's get these homes sold!

I have some thank you's, Tami, Camille, Kathy and Kelly! We sooo appreciate your cooking, and runs to Costco! You are helping me keep up my strength, and my kids are very thankful too. I am convinced the Smart Water is helping me with my blood pressure.

Sonny is doing well. The weather in Boston has been beautiful. Football is still in double-days, so he doesn't have too much down time. This weekend Harvard is scrimmaging Columbia.
He is looking forward to moving into Kirkland House, his housing for the school year. He should be moving sometime this week. A big thank-you to Jordan and Joe for keeping his boxes in their basement over the summer, and taking them to him this weekend.

I hope to go watch Mairin do her Song thing, (whenever I say cheer, she gently reminds me that she is a Song Girl, not a cheer leader) at the football game on Friday. I have to remind myself not to hug anyone,,it will be getting toward the low point of my chemo, and I will be most susceptible to infections. So, if any of you are reading this and see me tomorrow at the game, I would love to say hello, but remember no hugs or handshakes!

Thank you to everyone for "staying the course" with me. I kind of felt like you all would forget about me as this process is such a long ordeal, but no! You are with me all the way. It means so much.
Love YOU!
Nancy

Feeling good.

I am watching a lot of football today..my alma mater, UCLA , and flipping back and forth between Notre Dame (hoping to see Konrad play), and Wash. St. (to see Jed ) and tried to log on to the website to watch the Mission Viejo HS team play in Ohio, but couldn't get it. Sonny called this morning and was eagerly awaiting their intra-squad scrimmage today. The weather was nice and he was pumped up. I wish we had some fall football weather here!
I am doing well from my chemo on Thurs. Few side-effects, not worth mentioning. I am SO water-logged! I have learned that I need to keep pushing the water, even if I am not thirsty. It helps my blood pressure.
Thanks for checking in on me.
Love,
Nancy

Round 2, feeling great!

Off to my second round of chemo. I am feeling very strong, after a good night's sleep. Colin went to register for school early, in time to be back here to take me. I bought some pedialyte, and am also taking my supplements from my nutritionist.
I am looking forward to the first weekend of football. A great way for me to relax.
Off.....
Nancy

Reality check

Today I had my appointment with my Physician's Assistant, prior to my next chemo. currently scheduled for Thursday. I went in armed with a ton of questions, especially related to my recent stay in the hospital, and my related side effects. Basically, she told me in a nice way, that let's not lose sight of the purpose of my treatments. To eliminate any straggling cancer cells, and to protect my overall health. If I have to boost my white blood cells again with neupogen, and it gives me bone pain, we will deal with the bone pain. Not take a chance with any possible infections etc. It was kind of what I needed I guess. Sonny said it is sort of like listening to a coach, and in training. That is a good way of looking at it. I have to stay focused. Of course, I told her that it would have helped if there was someone who I could have talked to while all of this was going on. I felt like I had an ER doctor, an internist, etc,etc, but no one spoke to an oncologist. I now have her business card.
Also picked up my wig today. It feels really weird. I can't see me wearing it except for really important work related issues. I am looking forward to getting my new hats.
Thank you Clelland's and Olney's for the great meals! Delicious!
I can't believe that school will be starting next week. Schedules!
Thanks for checking on me.
Love, Nancy

Hair today, gone tomorrow!

Well my hair has been falling out over the last two days. Yesterday I gave Mairin the OK to cut it to 1/2 inch all over. We had fun. Tomorrow Shannon will take off the last of it. I was surfing the web and googled "softhats" and found softhats.com. They have so many cute hats that are made for chemo patients! If you know anyone going through chemo, check out this site. I even got a 'sleep hat".
Here is my list of reasons it's good to be bald!
Get to wear pretty scarves and hats.
Get to wear a wig!
With a bare head, your head stays cool in hot weather.
Can be an official member of the Britney Spears fan club, for life!
You can actually see what the shape of your head is.
Don't have to worry about your roots or grey hair showing.
Save money on haircuts, styling, and products!
Save time by not having to do your hair!
No bed head!

Feel free to add to this list if you can think of any other reasons, to support Bald is Beautiful!

Although, Mairin did a fantastic job cutting my hair, I don't think I will post a photo on my blog.
Thanks for checking on me.
Love,
Nancy

good news....while getting an IV

Today was supposed to just be a blood test. Colin drove me. Before the nurse stuck me I started feeling faint (took this cue from Colin in the old days). Blood pressure of 84/60 which was the reason for my "lightheadedness". They wheeled me up to urgent care and gave me a liter of fluid. They said I was not drinking enough water. HUH! I'm not just drinking water, I'm drinking Smart Water...and it seems like gallons. Oh well. While I was "drinking my IV" the blood test results came back. All good news. My WBC recovered to 3.9 (from a low of 1.4) and my platelets and RBC were all good. Yeah! That is particularly good news because after my shot yesterday, I developed intense bone pain. Now I don't have to get these shots. The pain should wear off in a couple of days. Meanwhile, the urgent care doctor gave me a shot of something for the pain...and for the first time I got loopy! I didn't care for the feeling. I came home and "slept it off". I am behind on my thank yous: Mary for coordinating the dinner schedule and moral support, Lena for the super suppers, Kathy for the smart waters, MaryAvis and Rick for the Woodranch dinner and all of the extras, including the beautiful plant,,,,,,and also the Dance Moms who have been driving Mairin to and from dance. Diny for the scarf and encouraging words,,,and so sorry if I have left anyone out. My Mom would be so disappointed in me for saying thank you ,,not just in an email, but on a blog no less!!! Tacky, tacky. But I'm too tired to do it any other way. Good night and thanks for checking in on me. love, Nancy

bones, dem bones...

No one mentioned to me that the injections that stimulate new blood cells,,,,give you bone pain! It is a cumulative effect. Yesterday about an hour after my injection...I was in agony. My hips, back, legs, jaw and well, all my bones hurt. Weird feeling. Can't get comfortable. My doctor OK'd vicadine, which I haven't taken for about a month...and combined that with ambien. I crashed out. Today I am going to have my blood drawn,,,and am keeping my fingers crossed that I won't have to give myself any more injections.
The side-effects of the side-effects..of the side-effects .etc.etc. ......crazy.
I still have my hair though!
Thanks for checking in with me...
I really appreciate your comments and emails...afterall I am in isolation in my bedroom. I think I will send Colin out today for some tabloids.
Nancy

No hugs or handshakes,,,for now at least...

I'm home. I was released last night. Even though my count is still low, the Dr. agreed that I could just as well be in isolation at home, as easily as in the hospital. So they sent me home with masks, and my meds, including shots that go into my abdomen. Colin has so generously offered to do this for me. Considering his past background with fainting at the sight of blood, I think we are making real progress here! He was such a help to me, getting me to the ER, and Mairin too. I also had so much help from the Mellos,,,thanks a ton.

I will be checking in with my emails. Send me funny stories, jokes etc...I will be stuck in my room by myself for the next few days at least. Help!

Love,

Nancy

hey everyone, it's Colin and if a lot of you guys are wondering why my mom has not been able to return your calls and stuff it's because she was recently re-admitted to the hospital due to a low white blood cell count. (she has a very low count of 1.7 and will probably remain in the hospital till she reaches a 3.0.) As much as she would like to see visiters, she is in isolation and unable to see anyone. I will keep this blog updated as soon as I hear new things!

good-bye Sonny! Kick some butt at Harvard!

Well, we sent Sonny off, back to Harvard this morning on the early, 7 am flight, JetBllue out of Long Beach. (turns out, Coach Mickelson from MVHS was on his flight) We will miss him so much! Needless to say, he is a large presence in our home!
This has been such a fun summer, having him on the west coast, even if it was spent for the most part up in Santa Monica with his internship. Evolution Capital was such a blessing, as were his fun-loving roommates. Some highlights include: surfing at SC pier with family and friends for his 20th bday, Karrie's 50th, complete with camel, the amazing apartment in Santa Monica, his "party" in the apartment in which they invited neighbors and their first guests were the cute Russian elderly couple who brought a plate of appetizers; more surfing, dinners with the great guys from work at fabulous LA famous eateries, and of course being flown to Las Vegas on the corporate jet,,,for a weekend of well....he said they had fun!
For me personally, having him here on the west coast was huge. He helped me soooo much with my devastating news, and was with me in the hospital, and at home for recovery, and took me to my first chemo. Sonny, Colin and Mairin are my pillars of strength! I am so blessed to have such great kids, that truly love each other and have fun together.
Sonny is going to kick some butt in football this year! He is so excited ! I will keep everyone posted about the games, and if they are on satellite TV. He is #49. He promised me when he left that I will be a motivation for him, not a distraction. Maybe I will send him a little tiny pink bow to tie on his cleat, for luck!

New Do, two.

OK,,,I tried to replace the other picture from the last entry....but it wouldn't let me. So here is the new one that Sonny took of me. He says I have a more natural smile in this one..

New short do!

Went to Shannon today, at Top Notch Salon,,,,and said "take-it-off"! I figure I have about a week to 10 days left of hair, so I thought it would be fun to see what it felt like to go short! So here it is. Don't worry, I won't post a picture of me bald! Maybe with my wig though!

Doing well, thank you!

Today was definitely a much better day. I noticed more energy and forgot to take my anti-nausea medicine! I guess I don't need it anymore. I'll save it for next round. These last few days since my first chemo have felt kind of like the tail-end of the flu or maybe like you are really really hungry and your tummy rumbles. I've been extra careful about what I've put in it.
I went back to the doctor yesterday about my continued chest pain. Left feeling frustrated. But today I felt much better. I just have to kind of get used to this until after the first of the year and my reconstruction. It seems to be pain related to the expanders and the nerves
starting to regenerate.
I want to say thank you to Kelly Webster for the delicious dinner, and my first scarf! Also, thank you so, so much to the MVHS Song team! Your thoughtfulness and generosity brought tears to my eyes! I am so thankful that Mairin is surrounded by such a wonderful , supportive team.
Friends, I really appreciate your emails, cards and inspirational quotes and prayers. Believe me it all helps.
Thanks for checking in on me,
Love,
Nancy

In the chemo chair

Well, here I am in the chemo chair. Notice the 2 necklaces that I have on. Michele gave me one with amethyst,,that has lots of positive energy. My friend Sherry Conover gave me the other amethyst necklace with the breast cancer icon on itl I was so proud to wear them.

I am home now. Feeling OK. Sort of waiting for the yucky feelings to start. I got IV anit-nausea medicine that is supposed to last until 9 tonight. I took my nutritionists advice and drank a mix during chemo...and then came home and the post shake. I am also drinking tons of water. Strange to think that in a week or so,,,,I'll be bald. Oh well.

My friends and family have been keeping me in good spirits.

thanks

Nancy

Busy week,,,getting down to the wire.

It has been an interesting couple of days. Yesterday morning I went to my plastic surgeon who again wanted me to postpone my chemo until my reconstruction was completed, maybe a few months. He didn't seem to think that my chemo was of an urgent nature. (He requested my oncology doctor's number to discuss with her....I put the brakes on that and said it was my decision to go ahead with the chemo.) My reconstruction however depended a lot on my muscle-tightness and scarring nature. It was going to be hard to expand them after a few months. I explained that I was really OK with that. He proceeded to put in 150 cc's in each. For comparison sake, last time I had 50 put in. And now my nerves are coming back. It is much more painful. They look a little fuller...but they feel like someone took duct tape and wrapped it as tightly as they could! I can hardly breathe. And moving is painful. He said that he usually waits 2 weeks between expansions, but since I was not going to postpone my chemo he would make an exception and do one more expansion on this Thursday, the day I have my first chemo. For some reason I felt like I owed this to him. He is actually a very nice man, and seems to have my best interest at stake. He thinks that somewhere down the line I will really want more than just small B's. That he is mistaken about. Guaranteed. At this point...still not being able to breathe, I think I may cancel my Thursday appointment. The good news is that he may be interested in buying a house,,,and his nurse too! Maybe I won't cancel my appointment, but show up with lots of real estate info!

Today. I had my nutritionist appointment. My sister-in-law Michele told me about her. She is in Costa Mesa. She made a lot of sense to me. She provided me with some drinks to have during chemo, and then right after. They should help minimize my side-effects. The expense is well worth feeling better during this chemo time.

Then we went to my chemo. orientation. Sonny, Colin and Mairin came with me. I was a little testy (OK they would say bitchy). I don't know what got into me except that this was IT. They tend to joke around when they are nervous, and I well, don't joke when I am nervous. We had to go over all of the possible side effects, and what to do in each scenario. Some included going to the ER, and others involved daily shots, Colin and Sonny actually offered to do them for me. We took a tour and saw all of these patients hooked up. It totally depressed me. No one was any younger than 65. They also don't have room for family or friends to stay with me. They have to go to this pathetic small waiting room. I can't wait for the new Kaiser at Sand Canyon to open up. I remember Michele saying that she made some friends during chemo....well everyone was napping when I was there, it didn't look like they were interested in making friends.
OK happy ending..
Happy day...a wonderful turkey dinner from MaryVictoria Tayor! We were really starving when we finally made it home from the chemo appmt. Thank you so much! Then not less than 10 minutes later, Tami Perez showed up with enchiladas and etc etc.....including homemade salsa! Then we saw a black SUV pull up and drop something off and dash off before we can get outside,,,Max Klapp and family dropped off some Costco necessities!
I also got a moving card from my sorority sister Heidi with a TJ gift card.....which made so much sense because my nutritionist really stressed organic food for me while I am on chemo.
MaryAvis and Rick and RJ delivered the BEST steaks and accompaniments on Sunday...we enjoyed them immensely...and also had steak sandwiches. It really means so much to me and me kids ......thank you...thank you. I know that I am forgetting some people that really have gone out of their way to help me. Sorry! You know I love you!

Everyone keeps saying how strong I am. Well, I'm not. Most of the time maybe. But now I feel really vulnerable. Having my kids with me today,,,meant so much, but also made me feel how fleeting life is. I am so glad that they get along so well. Silly jokes and all. I worry about the little things.....and stress out. Back to school shopping!!! Getting Sonny healthy and back to Harvard...and not having him worry about me.
You know what....I AM strong. I will be fine. Sorry for the temporary relapse!
I love you!
thanks for keeping tabs on me and my family,
Nancy

Fun night in the Palisades!

Thank you to the Barnetts for a great sendoff for the Princeton and Harvard Boys! Also at the Barnett abode were the Goodwin's from London, the Alesi's and their exhange students from Japan, the Mello's, and various other party goers. The food was great and obviously the view and company. For a last minute get together...no one does it better than the Barnetts! Thanks!

End of internship! What a great summer.

Here is a photo of 3 of the 4 roommates from their summer internship at Evolution Capital, in Santa Monica (Peter was at his home in Palos Verdes at the time of the photo). Carl is the gentleman on the left, starting DT for Harvard, from Maryland. Rob is a running back for Princeton, from New Jersey, That is Sonny on the right,,duh. The east-coasters learned how to surf during their CA stay...and vow to come back and live the southern California lifestyle! Carl and Sonny are looking forward to playing Princeton this year and aiming for Rob!

My extended family,and the boys second home "Chez Barnett" will miss the guys and their fun-loving personalities. Keogh, the surf coach will also miss their crazy antics on the waves!

Thankfully, Karrie took hundreds of photos to remember the east coast boys' time in Calif.

When she sends some,I will post them for you all to see.

We love you guys!

Nancy, Colin, Mairin

Boob Viewing and more

Well, here I am ...at home...both Colin and Mairin are at the beach..afterall it is summer. They should be at the beach. Sonny is celebrating the end of his internship with a little jaunt to Las Vegas on his boss's private jet,,,,staying at the Wynn...then back tomorrow. I already lectured him about taking it easy...going to bed early and making sure he takes his medicine so he won't have a third relapse....he assured me that it will just be a trip of r and r......nothing crazy. Does he think I have not seen those commercials "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas"...
Oh well.
Yesterday Colin drove me to my MUGA scan. He did a very good job. Last scan that I had to do before chemo. We then drove to the wig shop and ordered a wig. It was nice to have Colin and Mairin's input. Add one more expense to this ordeal. Not that I couldn't do without a wig. I go back and pick it up,,,once my hair falls out...so they can do the final fitting on my bald head. Fun!
Wed. night Colin drove Mairin and me to Balboa Island to visit with the Flynn's and also say hey to Fitz. It was a nice little get away for me.
At the vet this morning the nurse volunteered to show Mairin and me (probably would have shown Colin too...but he was parking the car) her newly reconstructed boobs from her double-mastectomy from a year ago! She was so proud! I think Mairin and I were a little shocked....but then we were able to eeck out a little,,oh..my yes they are lovely. Tattoed nips too I see! and I considered myself not too modest.!!! Yikes! .....she did tell me that they give you steroids during chemo...so be prepared to gain a lot of weight! That is the first I have heard of that. It is on my list of questions for my doctor.

Well, it has cooled down a little a bit...so I am off for my walk.

updates on Sonny, and me too.

I have had sooo many emails and phone calls from friends asking how Sonny is doing. He seems to be getting better. He didn't make it in to work yesterday....but is planning on going in today. This has really knocked him back...and he feels like he will have to be a more patient, patient and allow his body to recuperate before he tackles the football workouts again. Thank you for your concern.
My sister-in-law, Michele came down for a visit today. She brought a goody bag with lots of fun stuff for me in preparation for this next phase of my treatment. It was great spending some time with her.
I actually made it in to the office meeting today. It was good to see all of the sales on the board...looks like our office is kicking it in the real estate market here in OC! That was great to see. It felt good to be in that environment and discussing business.
I spoke with my advisers at Kaiser today. I have a heart scan scheduled for Thursday, (to make sure my heart is pumping well,,,and can tolerate a particular kind of chemo) and my orientation in the infusion room (chemo room) for next Tuesday. My first chemo is actually on the books for next Thursday. Kind of feels weird to know that it is fast approaching.
Next Monday I go to the plastic surgeon again to have the stitches removed. Then I head to the nutritionist to check on a protocol for supplements during the chemo process.
Looks like next week is going to be pretty busy.
Thanks for keeping tabs on the McCracken clan!
Love,
Nancy

Enjoyed my outing!

Yesterday was my big outing to Colin's lacrosse game up in LA....it was a beautiful day...sunny with a little breeze. LMU campus is so beautiful! Colin's team won their game handily...score of 8-1. Colin played great! I was so glad to be able to see a game...and meet his coach. It was a great experience for him this year. I managed to get through the drive, game and drive home again with little pain. I was exhausted,,,but happy! Might even try church today!

The bad news from yesterday came when I got home and learned that Sonny had a relapse of the illness he had from last week. Fever,,chills, muscle soreness and almost unbearable sore throat. I ordered him to his closest Urgent care..and he ended up at St. John's Hosp...which is where I was born....many years ago...but still harbor fond feelings for...why I don't know.
He was immediately given an IV...(he even hates the thought of IV's) for dehydration..and then they started poking around. He was attended to by my brother-in-law Larry. (Karrie's husband).who thankfully lives close-by. They ruled out strep and mono...and gave him intravenous penicillin...and sent him packing at 1 am. He went to my sisters house. They did a lot of blood work that should come back today. Of course Sonny is frustrated...he has a full schedule to tackle,,,work and football workouts. He has to follow the doctor's orders and get healthy! This is supposed to be his last week at his internship. He has thoroughly enjoyed the working experience...and the camaraderie of his co-workers. I really want Colin to drive me up there to see him....my sister is saying she will lock me out of the house! She says I can't afford to get sick...so close to my chemo....but he is still my little boy! We'll see. I'll keep you posted.

thanks for checking in with me!
Nancy

Phase Two...

Oncology. Cancer. This is the second part of the treatment. Many have asked me ,,,"why do you need chemo if they got the cancer....and the lymph nodes were negative?" Good question.
Cells are small. Microscopic. There were a few trace cells in both of my lymph nodes...and even though this is considered still a neg. node....a few could have gotten out into my system. Now that the breast tissue is gone...the local treatment of breast cancer....we move on to the systemic treatment of the disease. By blasting the body with chemo...and killing any stray cancer cells that have strayed into other parts of the body...I greatly increase my chances of NOT having a return of cancer...in any other parts of my body. It is kind of strange how they do all of these calculations...they take the -bad news -(-in my case the size of my tumor (large) and that I had 2 primary cancers in each breast (very uncommon),,),and all of the other information (which is all good in my case) and plug it into a table. This then predicts the chances of a relapse or return of cancer within the next 5 years...and/or mortality (ugh!). And they present this in a very matter-of-fact way. So basically if I do the chemo and hormone therapy...I reduce the percentages of a return by some 20% or so. It would NOT make sense not to do it. I say "bring it on"!!!!! I am ready to fight these little bad boys!!!
I am looking at 4 cycles of chemo...spaced 3 weeks apart. I SHOULD be finished by the end of October. Yeah! We are planning to go back for the Harvard/Yale game at the end of November...and with this schedule I hope to have some strength back by then.

I really thought that I would have some "healthy" time between surgery and chemo. It has been 3 weeks since the surgery and I am still having considerable pain. I am trying so hard to stop the pain pills,,,they make me tired...and just rely on the Motrin...but not quite there yet. Very frustrating. My sister took me to Henry's Food yesterday on a quest for this drink called Kombucha...an organic raw drink that a scientist created for his mother who was battling breast cancer. We found it! I am nursing one right now as I write. It is probably one of the worst things I have ever had to drink......but I WILL drink one a day...as it is suggested. I look at everything I put in my body right now as fortification to boost my immune system....and hasten my recovery from chemo.

On that note......thank you so much for the food! I know that I will have at least one well-balanced meal per day! And most of the time...leftovers for lunch the next day.

I am going on a "big" outing today. Colin's lacrosse team is playing in the finals of the Starz Cup...and then he is done with lacrosse with his club team for this season. I am being picked up and driven to LMU for the 3 pm game. I really don't think I will be able to stay for the Cup Finals at 5 (which I am sure they will play in). We are taking an umbrella, chair and lots of water. I should be OK.

Well,,,,I better get on to my other task for today....my washer died. I am going to try and let my fingers do the work and look on-line for a new one. It's always something!

Love,
Nancy

Don't move...easier said than done...

Well, I had my visit with my plastic surgeon on Friday. I knew going in that I was swollen,,retaining fluid in my entire chest area...and was dreading the appointment. He asked me what I had been doing with my arms to create this kind of swelling...I said just the usual..and also the exercises that were sent home with me...he said those were not exercises for mastectomies..( what did I know...I am good at following directions! ).and that is what caused the swelling..and maybe my feeble attempt at vacuuming on thursday. So to reduce the swelling he injected 50 cc's of saline into my expanders , and then wrapped me really tightly with the ace bandage with strict instructions not to move my arms for 2 more weeks!!!! He is hoping that the combination of pressure from behind and on top of the swelling would make it be reabsorbed more quickly.
Then Karrie and I went to a wig store. We had a ball! It is this wig shop in Mission Viejo that has been there for 32 years. We tried on some wigs...and I felt much better about that phase of my treatment. Also, a friend from work dropped off a beautiful wig for me to try as well.
Mairin got home from her cruise and showed me some great photos...and regaled me with stories of her adventures. Colin is at the Temecula lacrosse tournament..and right at this moment playing in the semi-final game! Sonny came home yesterday to check in with me...and unfortunately woke up feeling sick this morning..so he is off to the doctor. I felt bad I couldn't go with him...but then he reminded me..Mom...I go to the doctor by myself at college all the time...oh yeah. Once your kid...always your kid. I sometimes forget that he is a young man!
The meals this week were fantastic! Thank you from all of us...Sheri, MaryVictoria and Renee! We stretched them into lunches too.
I am really testing my patience here...I am not a lay-around type of person. However, he did just say not to move my arms. Last evening I went for a walk. It felt nice. I plan to do that more often......and hand the vacuuming over to someone else!
Love,
Nancy

Quiet on the homefront!

Today was a relatively quiet day around here. I am used to organized chaos around me. Where did everyone go? Mairin left yesterday for the cruise, with her Dance Studio....one that I had been looking forward to for a year....she is in good hands...and like a dutiful daughter, even called me this morning to check in. My sister left last night to head up to her house and catch up on some things of her own that had been piling up. But not before she did more laundry,,,hung photos, went to the store etc.....
So last night was my first night with just Colin here. Karrie bought me one of those little bells that you ring at the front lobby of cheap hotels...and put it next to my bed. This morning when I needed my meds...I rang and rang AND RANG.....then got smart and called Colin on his phone....no answer. I staggered into his room....where I quickly realized that of course he couldn't hear me with the door closed and his fan on full blast. He saw me and leaped (lept?) out of bed with concern on his face. That made me feel good. He handled his assignment as the Nurse , with great care.
On the medical front, I had my phone conversation with my 2nd opinion doctor regarding my pathology report. She is an oncologist. She was surprised to read about the cancer in the left breast...but was so relieved that I had followed my gut instincts and had it removed. Her opinion regarding the next phase of my treatment was what I expected. She would recommend an aggressive chemo regime. This is because of the size of my cancer,,and the few floating cells found in my lymph gland...and because I am young and healthy (relatively speaking of course!) and can handle it. Probably will be about 16 weeks total...she would guess. A round of chemo every 2-3 weeks....
I will get my oncologists plan for me when I go next Thursday. I would expect to begin treatment the following week...unless there is some problem with my surgery....which seems to be healing well.
Yes,,,,the hair will come out. Oh well. I am planning to get it cut short this Friday,,and maybe even go a little wild with the color...treat this like an adventure. I've been looking at wigs on-line...but will probably go to a wig store next week as well. I will need to get something to wear when I meet with clients. And I need to get back to work! My very competent partner has been doing a fantastic job for me. But I feel like I need to at least go in the office and stay in the loop. I want to stay involved in the things I love and not let this cancer rule my life.
Now if you see some scarf out there that you just know I would like....by all means get it to me...drop it by..mail it...send by boat...plane....I love getting presents!
For those of you that have dropped off food,,,it has been scarfed down (funny!) Thank you so much.
Once I get this new do...I'll post another photo.
Love
Nancy
PS...that comment on my last post that looked like it was from me,,was actually Mairin.