A quiet day, nothing unusual to report other than Livi and Vaughan actually went out to get some bread (after much cajoling!) and then Livi made us toasties!! Adam was out with his friends, as he has been for most of the week.
Oh yeah, I got my appointments through. The chemo nurse rang this morning. I have a consent appointment on the 19th August at 12:00 with the chemo nurse (have to arrive 10 minutes earlier for bloods to be taken). This should take about an hour. Then C-DAY #1 is scheduled for 11:00 on 24th August. This should take 1 - 1 1/2 hours. I'm sure I'll find out more about this when I see the chemo nurse.
Poor Vaughan, he went into the kitchen to make his breakfast and when he came back in I was in tears. Daft really, because I've got ages to wait for treatment, but the tears just came. Bit of a role reversal after that, my 15 year old son was comforting me - not how it should be. Adam came downstairs soon after and another cuddle followed.
We moved on though, to how long Vaughan should boil his 3 eggs for! 3,2,1, back in the room - lovely.
Eventually told Chris and parents about the dates. Nobody's that impressed about the wait, but understanding that there's little that can be done. Although, DadD has emailed the Chief Exec at RUH to ask for an explanation (maybe that's why I had a phone call so quickly???)!
Another weekend approaches. If time continues this quickly, it'll all soon be over...........
Friday, 30 July 2010
Long time no see - Thursday 29th
Had to get up earlier today to get through the routine etc before going to see my GP. I had intended to walk round (it's not far) but, by the time I'd faffed about, I had about 5 minutes until my appointment time so took the car instead!
There was no need to rush though, it took about 3/4 of an hour before I got in to see her!
She was lovely though (the first time I've seen her). She was very patient and gave me all the time I needed - as she probably had with all the other patients before me, hence the delay. We discussed the pros and cons of me returning to work whilst waiting for the chemo and decided on another sick note for a month. This should take me through to the first chemo session and we can review it after that. It also gives us chance to go away for a few days before it all starts. Got some more medication and had my blood pressure taken. That was a bit high, but we've agreed to monitor it each time I come for pre-chemo bloods.
The evening was spent at a local pub with work friends and colleagues. We were there to wish farewell and good luck to H who's going off on maternity leave. It was time well spent and great to see everyone. H had some lovely prezzies and I got chance to travel in her new Renault Espace. H isn't overly impressed with it, but I was (geek that I am!). She'll be sadly missed at work and we're all hoping she'll return. Zara will do a brilliant job though in her absence.
Finally a message for Lyn - I'm really pleased you're reading this and well done for finding it! You're better than you think you are at IT! x
There was no need to rush though, it took about 3/4 of an hour before I got in to see her!
She was lovely though (the first time I've seen her). She was very patient and gave me all the time I needed - as she probably had with all the other patients before me, hence the delay. We discussed the pros and cons of me returning to work whilst waiting for the chemo and decided on another sick note for a month. This should take me through to the first chemo session and we can review it after that. It also gives us chance to go away for a few days before it all starts. Got some more medication and had my blood pressure taken. That was a bit high, but we've agreed to monitor it each time I come for pre-chemo bloods.
The evening was spent at a local pub with work friends and colleagues. We were there to wish farewell and good luck to H who's going off on maternity leave. It was time well spent and great to see everyone. H had some lovely prezzies and I got chance to travel in her new Renault Espace. H isn't overly impressed with it, but I was (geek that I am!). She'll be sadly missed at work and we're all hoping she'll return. Zara will do a brilliant job though in her absence.
Finally a message for Lyn - I'm really pleased you're reading this and well done for finding it! You're better than you think you are at IT! x
Wednesday, 28 July 2010
My appointment with Dr Mancero
Apart from being woken by loud music (a middle aged couple next door!) at 06:30, I felt quite good. The strange stinging feeling in my arm has improved even further. I've also decided to stay off the co-codamol and go back onto the paracetamol, after yesterday's fiasco! I made an appointment to see one of the doctors at my GP surgery tomorrow to discuss medication, sick note etc.
At around midday, I got a call from the oncology unit to ask if I would mind coming in earlier, as they'd had a cancellation. The appointment was for 14:00, so I didn't have long to go. Chris came home and just had enough time to have a bite to eat before we trundled off. Parked easily enough in the red car park (Chris' favourite!) and went in to find the department. It was a contrast from the outside of the building, which looked old and dingy. It was nice, airy and spacious in the oncology/radiology department (still felt anxious though). Didn't have long to wait before we were called in to the clinic area. We were shown in to a consulting room and waited for Dr Mancero. She's very nice. Smaller than me, stocky with beautiful handwriting. I knew we were alright when I saw her handwriting, my mum's got beautiful handwriting. She examined me and commented on how neat the scar is. Now, I maybe wrong here, but this is the first time someone has actually examined my other breast, felt around my collar bone and tummy area. It may have been for show, but it made me feel better, especially when she said everything looked and felt ok! We sat down and she explained what treatment she recommended, the side effects (briefly) and answered any questions we had.
Basically:
3 courses of FEC (fluorouracil, epirubicin, cyclophosphamide that will be given into a vein in my hand)
3 courses of Docetaxel (Taxotere, given the same way)
These will be given at 3 weekly intervals and I can expect to lose my hair when the 2nd course of FEC starts.
Once this has finished the radiotherapy will start around 3-4 weeks later, alongside the hormone treatment - Tamoxifen.
After this the HCA came in and gave me a chemo pack (explanations, side effects etc.) and told us that currently there is a 3 week waiting list! I may get an appointment first with the chemo nurse and then another appointment for the treatment to start. OR, I may get both appointments on the same day. Either way, we've still a little while to wait, but I should hear about the appointments within the next week.
I came out with a goody bag of drugs to help with the sickness, which I have to take the day before, on the day and the day after each chemo session.
So there you are, more reading material and more waiting...........
At around midday, I got a call from the oncology unit to ask if I would mind coming in earlier, as they'd had a cancellation. The appointment was for 14:00, so I didn't have long to go. Chris came home and just had enough time to have a bite to eat before we trundled off. Parked easily enough in the red car park (Chris' favourite!) and went in to find the department. It was a contrast from the outside of the building, which looked old and dingy. It was nice, airy and spacious in the oncology/radiology department (still felt anxious though). Didn't have long to wait before we were called in to the clinic area. We were shown in to a consulting room and waited for Dr Mancero. She's very nice. Smaller than me, stocky with beautiful handwriting. I knew we were alright when I saw her handwriting, my mum's got beautiful handwriting. She examined me and commented on how neat the scar is. Now, I maybe wrong here, but this is the first time someone has actually examined my other breast, felt around my collar bone and tummy area. It may have been for show, but it made me feel better, especially when she said everything looked and felt ok! We sat down and she explained what treatment she recommended, the side effects (briefly) and answered any questions we had.
Basically:
3 courses of FEC (fluorouracil, epirubicin, cyclophosphamide that will be given into a vein in my hand)
3 courses of Docetaxel (Taxotere, given the same way)
These will be given at 3 weekly intervals and I can expect to lose my hair when the 2nd course of FEC starts.
Once this has finished the radiotherapy will start around 3-4 weeks later, alongside the hormone treatment - Tamoxifen.
After this the HCA came in and gave me a chemo pack (explanations, side effects etc.) and told us that currently there is a 3 week waiting list! I may get an appointment first with the chemo nurse and then another appointment for the treatment to start. OR, I may get both appointments on the same day. Either way, we've still a little while to wait, but I should hear about the appointments within the next week.
I came out with a goody bag of drugs to help with the sickness, which I have to take the day before, on the day and the day after each chemo session.
So there you are, more reading material and more waiting...........
Tuesday 27th July
It was a very quiet day really. This was mainly due to the fact that my darling husband had prevented me from going to sleep. No, no, it's not what you think! His snoring was particularly loud, it was a humid night and the mix just didn't do it for me. I ended up taking my duvet (he wasn't taking that off me again!) and going downstairs, finally dropping off on the sofa for a few hours kip. He crept downstairs at around 07:30 and sheepishly peered round the door. I snapped at him to take my duvet back upstairs, so I could follow it and go back to bed. Needless to say, I didn't get up 'til much later and felt rotten for the rest of the day. It didn't help that, the previous evening, I'd taken some gunk (only way to describe it I'm afraid) I'd bought from the health food shop to help counteract the effects of the co-codamol. Well, it certainly did that - most of the day in fact!
A welcome addition to my day, though, was a bouquet of flowers from my Annie. That brightened things up a bit for me. Beautiful big sunflowers that can't help but make you feel better.
Liv was desperate to get a laptop with her birthday money, so I took her along to Curry's, where she'd seen one she liked and she finally bought it. She still shakes with excitement when she opens new things! That was the last I saw of her for the rest of the evening, but Mum and Dad, DadD and Heather ended up getting emails out of it!
A visit from a friend with her new grandson rounded off what could've been a thoroughly miserable day, but got better.
A welcome addition to my day, though, was a bouquet of flowers from my Annie. That brightened things up a bit for me. Beautiful big sunflowers that can't help but make you feel better.
Liv was desperate to get a laptop with her birthday money, so I took her along to Curry's, where she'd seen one she liked and she finally bought it. She still shakes with excitement when she opens new things! That was the last I saw of her for the rest of the evening, but Mum and Dad, DadD and Heather ended up getting emails out of it!
A visit from a friend with her new grandson rounded off what could've been a thoroughly miserable day, but got better.
Monday, 26 July 2010
The weekend
Vaughan came back on Friday night with stories of drink and other excesses. He'd taken note of our earlier conversations and ended up being amongst people (some he didn't even know) who were a little worse for wear. So he ended up looking after some others and to be honest, I think he felt a bit out of place (that's not to say he didn't indulge - he just hid his tracks!). Just as well really because as he and another friend were leaving, there were shouts of "the police are coming!". I'm quite proud of him really!
Over the weekend, we went to see Toy Story 3 in 3D. It was just the 4 of us as Liv had seen it on Friday night. We all seemed to enjoy it, although the boys didn't think the 3D was up to much. Chris and I did though. It was quite sad at times! We ended up having a KFC afterwards and by the time we got home I was pooped! I find I need to stretch my arm regularly or my wrist and forearm become painful when I move them (I think the cords must harden).
Liv was staying at her boyfriends (aren't I getting brave??!!), so Chris didn't have to get up early to take her to work. Not that he has to get up early, but he's so soft with her, he won't tell her to walk!
Sunday saw me cleaning the bathrooms, with the help of Adam (whoa, have to be careful this doesn't become a habit!). This entailed me doing the toilets! No surprise there then (anybody else find that they're the toilet fairy too????).
Chris did the grocery shopping and Vaughan went on the cross trainer for an hour. Mmmmm.........something not quite right there! Liv was let off - she was working.
Just want to say "thank you!" to Ruth and Ellen for running the Race for Life on Sunday with me on their backs! Well done - I'm not exactly light and I know you both had other people to carry too!
Today was a bit different as the kids were home. I'd been woken up at around 4 in the morning by Chris grabbing my duvet and pulling it over himself (we have separate duvets). After waking him up and grabbing it back, we had a giggle then nodded off.
Drove the Alhambra for the first time today, so Liv benefited from having lifts from her work experience and then to her friends house! Adam and I also went shopping for clothes for him, but there was nothing he fancied! It was nice driving my car again though.
Although I thought my peace and quiet had gone now the kids have broken up, I must say, I've enjoyed spending time with the boys today. We watched a brilliant documentary on Tutankhamen while we had lunch (something I'd recorded ages ago), only to find that it was part of a series and I hadn't recorded the rest of it!! Bugger!
Liv's been on a high today. She's organising a fund raising event at McDonald's on the 14th and 15th August, raising money for the Breast Unit at RUH. A few of them have been sorting raffle prizes, wearing pink and maybe a car wash over that weekend (thanks to Auntie Sue for help and advice too!). Liv frustrates the hell out of me sometimes, but now and then she'll surprise me. She is and always will be my beautiful baby girl.
Over the weekend, we went to see Toy Story 3 in 3D. It was just the 4 of us as Liv had seen it on Friday night. We all seemed to enjoy it, although the boys didn't think the 3D was up to much. Chris and I did though. It was quite sad at times! We ended up having a KFC afterwards and by the time we got home I was pooped! I find I need to stretch my arm regularly or my wrist and forearm become painful when I move them (I think the cords must harden).
Liv was staying at her boyfriends (aren't I getting brave??!!), so Chris didn't have to get up early to take her to work. Not that he has to get up early, but he's so soft with her, he won't tell her to walk!
Sunday saw me cleaning the bathrooms, with the help of Adam (whoa, have to be careful this doesn't become a habit!). This entailed me doing the toilets! No surprise there then (anybody else find that they're the toilet fairy too????).
Chris did the grocery shopping and Vaughan went on the cross trainer for an hour. Mmmmm.........something not quite right there! Liv was let off - she was working.
Just want to say "thank you!" to Ruth and Ellen for running the Race for Life on Sunday with me on their backs! Well done - I'm not exactly light and I know you both had other people to carry too!
Today was a bit different as the kids were home. I'd been woken up at around 4 in the morning by Chris grabbing my duvet and pulling it over himself (we have separate duvets). After waking him up and grabbing it back, we had a giggle then nodded off.
Drove the Alhambra for the first time today, so Liv benefited from having lifts from her work experience and then to her friends house! Adam and I also went shopping for clothes for him, but there was nothing he fancied! It was nice driving my car again though.
Although I thought my peace and quiet had gone now the kids have broken up, I must say, I've enjoyed spending time with the boys today. We watched a brilliant documentary on Tutankhamen while we had lunch (something I'd recorded ages ago), only to find that it was part of a series and I hadn't recorded the rest of it!! Bugger!
Liv's been on a high today. She's organising a fund raising event at McDonald's on the 14th and 15th August, raising money for the Breast Unit at RUH. A few of them have been sorting raffle prizes, wearing pink and maybe a car wash over that weekend (thanks to Auntie Sue for help and advice too!). Liv frustrates the hell out of me sometimes, but now and then she'll surprise me. She is and always will be my beautiful baby girl.
Friday, 23 July 2010
Long time, no blog - busy week!
Tuesday was busier than Monday, starting off with a visit from BT engineers. Chris was having another phone line put in for work so he can have broadband. This will make it easier for him to use the work laptop and not get side tracked by anything else (namely his blog!). They seemed to take ages and were here for a couple of hours before they left.
Liv was glad to get home after her work experience. She didn't get home until after 01:00 in the morning and was "tired" (!). "I HAVEN'T GOT A HANGOVER MUM, I'M JUST TIRED!". Mmmmmm.......
Whilst we were having lunch, Chris turned the TV on (no surprise there!) and happened to tune into "The man who shot Liberty Valance". Well, that was me hooked. I've never seen it before and thought it was brilliant.
Not long after Chris had gone to work, my friend SB arrived (had to record the rest of the film!). She was here for about 3 hours but the time just flew - there just seemed lots to talk about. SB agreed to take Adam to Futsal as there was another visitor arriving for dinner.
I fixed Adam's dinner (go me!) - only pizza and he went off to training. Chris' cousin LL came to visit. She works in Bristol and took time out to come over here before going home. It was lovely to see her as the only time we catch up is at carnival in November! And she brought cup cakes from Marks!
All in all a busy day, was cream crackered by the end of it (not Livi "tired" though!).
Wednesday saw more visitors. CC, a friend from work was due round at 11:00, so I needed to get up and ready! It's taking such a long time in the mornings to even get downstairs! Anyway, with a 'phone call before I showered, it took even longer this day. Just finished breakfast when she arrived. Lovely to see her and she looks great. While CC was here, Auntie M rang to see if she could drop in on her way to Bath in the afternoon. She arrived about 14:45 after a long journey and looked tired. Brilliant to see her, with chocs and another funny card. She suffers from ill health and I was worried when she left. Her visit to the west country and Ireland involved lots of visits to various people and I'm sure she'll be glad to get home and rest!
On Thursday LW came round for a cuppa before she started work at the surgery - with a delish cake! It was nice to hear more about work - I don't feel quite so distant. Time again passed quickly and she was gone. Hopefully the afternoon shift wasn't too busy.
The evening saw my first night out since my op - bit nervous. TG picked me up at 19:30ish and we met MC at the pub. I love these two! We went through many highs and lows on the course together. Both food and company were brilliant and we ended up being the last to leave! Lots to talk about and listen to! Thank you girls for making it easy for me.
I haven't mentioned how I've felt this week (been prattling on too much!). Other than a bit tired at times, I feel that my arm feels easier (at least the stinging feeling). I think there's a definite improvement. The cords are still present under my arm and I'm religiously massaging them and doing my exercises. The co-codamol are having the usual effect, so am taking other tablets to try and combat that! Needless to say, it's a bit hit and miss (so to speak!).
Having said all that, I felt a bit grotty today. Weepy this morning (not the cancer for a change!) and needed to chat to my sensible mummy! Really tired and lacking in energy for the rest of the day.
Liv had invited me out for a coffee but I didn't fancy it, so she bought cakes on her way back from work experience. That's probably why I'm lacking energy - the amount of those I'm eating! This was all after she rang in a panic to tell me one of the dogs had got out - a rotty called Max, another dog had broken a hinge on the kennel door and she didn't know what to do as there was no-one around to help! She had in fact got it all under control. Max was in another kennel, she'd put a full watering can in front of the broken door and was waiting for someone to turn up. She told me later that she'd managed to bribe Max into his own kennel - job sorted. She and her boyfriend have gone to watch Toy Story 3 in 3D tonight. We may go and see it some time over the weekend.
Vaughan had been invited out into Corsham for the evening (stern words were had before he left!) and then rang to ask if he could stay at a friends overnight. Mmmmmm.....(more stern words). Said yes, but we'll see what he's like tomorrow - hopefully, he won't have burnt his bridges.............
Liv was glad to get home after her work experience. She didn't get home until after 01:00 in the morning and was "tired" (!). "I HAVEN'T GOT A HANGOVER MUM, I'M JUST TIRED!". Mmmmmm.......
Whilst we were having lunch, Chris turned the TV on (no surprise there!) and happened to tune into "The man who shot Liberty Valance". Well, that was me hooked. I've never seen it before and thought it was brilliant.
Not long after Chris had gone to work, my friend SB arrived (had to record the rest of the film!). She was here for about 3 hours but the time just flew - there just seemed lots to talk about. SB agreed to take Adam to Futsal as there was another visitor arriving for dinner.
I fixed Adam's dinner (go me!) - only pizza and he went off to training. Chris' cousin LL came to visit. She works in Bristol and took time out to come over here before going home. It was lovely to see her as the only time we catch up is at carnival in November! And she brought cup cakes from Marks!
All in all a busy day, was cream crackered by the end of it (not Livi "tired" though!).
Wednesday saw more visitors. CC, a friend from work was due round at 11:00, so I needed to get up and ready! It's taking such a long time in the mornings to even get downstairs! Anyway, with a 'phone call before I showered, it took even longer this day. Just finished breakfast when she arrived. Lovely to see her and she looks great. While CC was here, Auntie M rang to see if she could drop in on her way to Bath in the afternoon. She arrived about 14:45 after a long journey and looked tired. Brilliant to see her, with chocs and another funny card. She suffers from ill health and I was worried when she left. Her visit to the west country and Ireland involved lots of visits to various people and I'm sure she'll be glad to get home and rest!
On Thursday LW came round for a cuppa before she started work at the surgery - with a delish cake! It was nice to hear more about work - I don't feel quite so distant. Time again passed quickly and she was gone. Hopefully the afternoon shift wasn't too busy.
The evening saw my first night out since my op - bit nervous. TG picked me up at 19:30ish and we met MC at the pub. I love these two! We went through many highs and lows on the course together. Both food and company were brilliant and we ended up being the last to leave! Lots to talk about and listen to! Thank you girls for making it easy for me.
I haven't mentioned how I've felt this week (been prattling on too much!). Other than a bit tired at times, I feel that my arm feels easier (at least the stinging feeling). I think there's a definite improvement. The cords are still present under my arm and I'm religiously massaging them and doing my exercises. The co-codamol are having the usual effect, so am taking other tablets to try and combat that! Needless to say, it's a bit hit and miss (so to speak!).
Having said all that, I felt a bit grotty today. Weepy this morning (not the cancer for a change!) and needed to chat to my sensible mummy! Really tired and lacking in energy for the rest of the day.
Liv had invited me out for a coffee but I didn't fancy it, so she bought cakes on her way back from work experience. That's probably why I'm lacking energy - the amount of those I'm eating! This was all after she rang in a panic to tell me one of the dogs had got out - a rotty called Max, another dog had broken a hinge on the kennel door and she didn't know what to do as there was no-one around to help! She had in fact got it all under control. Max was in another kennel, she'd put a full watering can in front of the broken door and was waiting for someone to turn up. She told me later that she'd managed to bribe Max into his own kennel - job sorted. She and her boyfriend have gone to watch Toy Story 3 in 3D tonight. We may go and see it some time over the weekend.
Vaughan had been invited out into Corsham for the evening (stern words were had before he left!) and then rang to ask if he could stay at a friends overnight. Mmmmmm.....(more stern words). Said yes, but we'll see what he's like tomorrow - hopefully, he won't have burnt his bridges.............
Monday, 19 July 2010
Monday 19th July - draining!
By the time I'd done my exercises this morning, it was gone 09:20 and I thought Chris would be eager to find out if we had our Monday visit to the RUH. So before I showered, I rang the breast care nurses. I knew Irene wasn't going to be there and spoke to Kate. She asked if I could make it this morning (aargh - it would take us at least 3/4 of an hour and I hadn't even showered!). No problem - we arranged it for 11:30. I text Chris and jumped in the shower.
We went a different way - longer but quicker - we arrived in 35 minutes! Kate was just as lovely as Irene. There was hardly any fluid in the syringe this time, so I don't need to go back for that (one thing my body's doing right at the moment)! Kate pulled out the remnants of the stitch with some tweezers and then looked at the cording under my arm. She showed me how to massage it (that'll be hard then!), which is something I'd been doing but not quite so deep! She also told me to massage the scar to soften the scar tissue that's built up. Will have to coincide these massages with the painkillers, I think.
Livi was home when we got back and after lunch, she started on her bedroom. (pass me the smelling salts)!! Chris didn't go back to work, so was able to pick the boys up, while I fell asleep on the sofa (no change there then!). Well, I say fell asleep, but of course I had my daughter in and out with piles of washing from her floor (I'm sure some of it's not been worn since the last time it was washed!) and she's not the quietest of people. Later, her boyfriend came round and she cooked him dinner (when I say "dinner", I mean gammon, egg and chips). At the moment, she's getting ready for a party (4 inch heels and hair extensions!) and poor Sam is sat here enduring The One Show (Chris likes it!) and I'm enduring it because Martin Sheen is on tonight!
Oh well, better go and massage! Now where are my painkillers.........?
We went a different way - longer but quicker - we arrived in 35 minutes! Kate was just as lovely as Irene. There was hardly any fluid in the syringe this time, so I don't need to go back for that (one thing my body's doing right at the moment)! Kate pulled out the remnants of the stitch with some tweezers and then looked at the cording under my arm. She showed me how to massage it (that'll be hard then!), which is something I'd been doing but not quite so deep! She also told me to massage the scar to soften the scar tissue that's built up. Will have to coincide these massages with the painkillers, I think.
Livi was home when we got back and after lunch, she started on her bedroom. (pass me the smelling salts)!! Chris didn't go back to work, so was able to pick the boys up, while I fell asleep on the sofa (no change there then!). Well, I say fell asleep, but of course I had my daughter in and out with piles of washing from her floor (I'm sure some of it's not been worn since the last time it was washed!) and she's not the quietest of people. Later, her boyfriend came round and she cooked him dinner (when I say "dinner", I mean gammon, egg and chips). At the moment, she's getting ready for a party (4 inch heels and hair extensions!) and poor Sam is sat here enduring The One Show (Chris likes it!) and I'm enduring it because Martin Sheen is on tonight!
Oh well, better go and massage! Now where are my painkillers.........?
Sunday 18th July - a quiet day!
Nobody got up particularly early, but I was the last one downstairs after my "routine" (which now includes Bio Oil too - no wonder breakfast is getting later!).
Adam had organised a cinema trip with friends, so Chris spent most of the day ferrying him around while Vaughan and I settled down to watch Chicago. He wasn't planning to go out anyway, but think he was glad of a day at home. I kept clucking around him like a mother hen, but he insisted he was ok. Livi had a lazy day too until her boyfriend finished work and came to pick her up.
One of my course pals text to see if I wanted to go out for a meal next week with her and another pal. Looking forward to that on Thursday! They also passed with distinctions - really pleased.
Had a phone call from Auntie M with some suggestions on what to call the cancer. My favourite being POOOH (p*ss off out of here). So I may have my Lancasters bombing my POOOH soon!
In the afternoon, whilst I was doing exercises (again!), our next door neighbour came round with a bouquet of flowers. She had been worrying about her comments yesterday, all night and all day at work! She was really upset but, I hope, felt better when I told her that I hadn't taken any offence at all. I have to have a sense of humour living with Mr Tinsley (yep, you all know where I coming from there!). I was more offended at the young women walking around in white bikini's advertising a local photographer (bit disturbing really!) during the procession. That did make me feel inadequate! But, come to think of it, even when I had 2 boobs, I never looked like that! Adam, by the way, was a very happy boy putting some money in their buckets! Chris dared not!
I didn't get out for a walk today, not quite sure why really as nothing else was going on. Monday morning call to the hospital tomorrow. I never know if there's much fluid accumulating or not, but I found the tail end of a stitch poking out, so that can go.
Adam had organised a cinema trip with friends, so Chris spent most of the day ferrying him around while Vaughan and I settled down to watch Chicago. He wasn't planning to go out anyway, but think he was glad of a day at home. I kept clucking around him like a mother hen, but he insisted he was ok. Livi had a lazy day too until her boyfriend finished work and came to pick her up.
One of my course pals text to see if I wanted to go out for a meal next week with her and another pal. Looking forward to that on Thursday! They also passed with distinctions - really pleased.
Had a phone call from Auntie M with some suggestions on what to call the cancer. My favourite being POOOH (p*ss off out of here). So I may have my Lancasters bombing my POOOH soon!
In the afternoon, whilst I was doing exercises (again!), our next door neighbour came round with a bouquet of flowers. She had been worrying about her comments yesterday, all night and all day at work! She was really upset but, I hope, felt better when I told her that I hadn't taken any offence at all. I have to have a sense of humour living with Mr Tinsley (yep, you all know where I coming from there!). I was more offended at the young women walking around in white bikini's advertising a local photographer (bit disturbing really!) during the procession. That did make me feel inadequate! But, come to think of it, even when I had 2 boobs, I never looked like that! Adam, by the way, was a very happy boy putting some money in their buckets! Chris dared not!
I didn't get out for a walk today, not quite sure why really as nothing else was going on. Monday morning call to the hospital tomorrow. I never know if there's much fluid accumulating or not, but I found the tail end of a stitch poking out, so that can go.
Saturday 17th July - carnival
Saturday saw the kids making plans for the annual carnival and party in the park without Mum and Dad! I didn't fancy going, partly because I still feel so self conscious and partly because I'd have been physically uncomfortable.
A friend of Vaughan's came over about midday and by the time Chris and I had finished shopping they'd gone. Adam followed soon after we got home and Livi had left hours ago. We had the house to ourselves - it was so quiet. Typically, Chris caught up with his blog and I fell asleep on the sofa. Aah, quality time together!
As the carnival procession passes down our road, we popped out just as they were nearing the house. Had a chat to a couple of neighbours and then went back in after it had finished. Adam, who'd come back for a bite to eat, left to meet up with his mates again. We'd already heard reports that Vaughan was, shall we say, "merry" (not impressed!), so it was going to be interesting to see what state he arrived home in. After we went in, I retreated to the bedroom to do my exercises. Not long after, Chris came up to tell me that our next door neighbour had been round to apologise. She thought she'd made an insensitive remark about nipples (!) and she was mortified that she may have upset me. I hadn't said anything to him about being upset, so he told her there was nothing to worry about. I hadn't taken any offence at what she'd said.
Went into the garden around 22:00 to watch the fireworks (or what we could see of the fireworks due to the trees). Then waited for the boys to come home. I won't go into detail as Chris has already blogged about it, needless to say I was baying for blood by the time they did come home - safely thank God. Adam text Livi while Chris took Vaughan's friend home and told her what had happened. This was something I'd decided not to do, as I had visions of her burning the town down to get to the perpetrator! She didn't though, she was a good girl and stayed with her boyfriend at a party. They had a pretty good idea who it was though! "Wait 'til I see him!", I fumed at Livi. "Mum, you wouldn't know him if you did!", she laughed. True.......:-(
A friend of Vaughan's came over about midday and by the time Chris and I had finished shopping they'd gone. Adam followed soon after we got home and Livi had left hours ago. We had the house to ourselves - it was so quiet. Typically, Chris caught up with his blog and I fell asleep on the sofa. Aah, quality time together!
As the carnival procession passes down our road, we popped out just as they were nearing the house. Had a chat to a couple of neighbours and then went back in after it had finished. Adam, who'd come back for a bite to eat, left to meet up with his mates again. We'd already heard reports that Vaughan was, shall we say, "merry" (not impressed!), so it was going to be interesting to see what state he arrived home in. After we went in, I retreated to the bedroom to do my exercises. Not long after, Chris came up to tell me that our next door neighbour had been round to apologise. She thought she'd made an insensitive remark about nipples (!) and she was mortified that she may have upset me. I hadn't said anything to him about being upset, so he told her there was nothing to worry about. I hadn't taken any offence at what she'd said.
Went into the garden around 22:00 to watch the fireworks (or what we could see of the fireworks due to the trees). Then waited for the boys to come home. I won't go into detail as Chris has already blogged about it, needless to say I was baying for blood by the time they did come home - safely thank God. Adam text Livi while Chris took Vaughan's friend home and told her what had happened. This was something I'd decided not to do, as I had visions of her burning the town down to get to the perpetrator! She didn't though, she was a good girl and stayed with her boyfriend at a party. They had a pretty good idea who it was though! "Wait 'til I see him!", I fumed at Livi. "Mum, you wouldn't know him if you did!", she laughed. True.......:-(
Friday, 16 July 2010
Got up this morning and decided to have a cuppa whilst waiting for the painkillers to kick in and before my shower etc. During this GC rang and we had a good old natter for about an hour. By the time I'd opened and read the post, it was near to 11:00. Thought about staying in my pjs for a bit, but then took one look in the mirror, decided I looked too much of a state if anyone turned up and went upstairs to get ready. (I have really short hair now, so why does it still end up in the morning looking like I've been dragged through a hedge backwards?!)
After exercises, shower, breakfast and looking less like a witch, I decided to let Chris and the parents know that my appointment to see the oncologist had come through - Wednesday 28th July at 16:15 - Dr Mancero's clinic (sounds like someone out of a spaghetti western!). I knew if I were to text them before breakfast, I'd never eat because they'd ring. DadD rang first. Then spoke to Mum, who'd already looked the oncologist up on the internet, found her to be female (Susana) and had a list of her qualifications and current position at RUH! Felt guilty then about my flippant comment re the spaghetti western. Let's hope she's as nice as my surgeon - I'll let you know. Given that I'm seeing her on the 28th, I'm expecting my chemo to start week commencing 2nd August, all being well. Makes me feel somewhat apprehensive - it's just my luck I'll feel wretched during this! Ok, ok, I hear you all - BE POSITIVE!
Liv came home at lunchtime, sat down for a bit and then went to bed! She's off out to an 18th birthday party tonight (anyone want to take bets as to whether I manage to sleep before she gets home??).
While she was in bed and before the boys came home, I had a call from the Client Services Manager from the course I was on at Slimbridge, telling me I had passed the AMSPAR diploma with an overall distinction. That's both diplomas passed then. Informed her of my diagnosis (probably not very fair to her) and then broke down after coming off the 'phone. Went upstairs and sobbed. IT'S NOT FAIR! I was so looking forward to getting my results. All that hard work and what for???? So I can get cancer as a reward! It was supposed to be time back for me now, to enjoy the fruits of my labour, a renewed confidence, to relax with family and friends again. Ha!
That's better, needed that. I knew it was due, but hadn't really had the chance. Chris was concerned when he got home - his red eyed, puffy faced wife sat staring back at him. Spirits soon lifted though, hearing about Chris' day at work and having the boys milling round, Livi getting ready to go out - real life took over.
After exercises, shower, breakfast and looking less like a witch, I decided to let Chris and the parents know that my appointment to see the oncologist had come through - Wednesday 28th July at 16:15 - Dr Mancero's clinic (sounds like someone out of a spaghetti western!). I knew if I were to text them before breakfast, I'd never eat because they'd ring. DadD rang first. Then spoke to Mum, who'd already looked the oncologist up on the internet, found her to be female (Susana) and had a list of her qualifications and current position at RUH! Felt guilty then about my flippant comment re the spaghetti western. Let's hope she's as nice as my surgeon - I'll let you know. Given that I'm seeing her on the 28th, I'm expecting my chemo to start week commencing 2nd August, all being well. Makes me feel somewhat apprehensive - it's just my luck I'll feel wretched during this! Ok, ok, I hear you all - BE POSITIVE!
Liv came home at lunchtime, sat down for a bit and then went to bed! She's off out to an 18th birthday party tonight (anyone want to take bets as to whether I manage to sleep before she gets home??).
While she was in bed and before the boys came home, I had a call from the Client Services Manager from the course I was on at Slimbridge, telling me I had passed the AMSPAR diploma with an overall distinction. That's both diplomas passed then. Informed her of my diagnosis (probably not very fair to her) and then broke down after coming off the 'phone. Went upstairs and sobbed. IT'S NOT FAIR! I was so looking forward to getting my results. All that hard work and what for???? So I can get cancer as a reward! It was supposed to be time back for me now, to enjoy the fruits of my labour, a renewed confidence, to relax with family and friends again. Ha!
That's better, needed that. I knew it was due, but hadn't really had the chance. Chris was concerned when he got home - his red eyed, puffy faced wife sat staring back at him. Spirits soon lifted though, hearing about Chris' day at work and having the boys milling round, Livi getting ready to go out - real life took over.
Thursday 15th July
I can't believe it's 3 weeks since my op. Oh, wait, no, yes I can - the discomfort keeps reminding me! Actually, the scar's healing really well, it's just the after effects of the lymph node removal in my arm that's the pain - literally!
Chris had arranged to work from home and we'd planned to have croissants after he came back from dropping the kids off. Unfortunately, I overslept and didn't get up until after 9! By the time I'd exercised and showered it was gone 10, so we decided to shelve the croissants and just have toast. My friend G was due at 11:00, but arrived early. Although we talked about my diagnosis and treatment, it wasn't the only topic of conversation. I really enjoyed her visit and she made me laugh (always guaranteed with G). Liv came home, sat and chatted with us for a bit and then went out with her boyfriend. I didn't see her again until Chris picked her up from work at 22:00!
Suddenly, it was gone 13:00 and there was someone else at the door! It was R with his promise of the Dollhouse DVD. G left and I persuaded him to talk about work, so I could catch up a bit! It was brief as he had to get back and see patients.
Lunch was our croissants from the morning, before Chris had to leave to pick the boys up. Soon after he left, I had a call from S in Spain. An hour later (by which time they'd come home), we said goodbye and I went off to do my long overdue exercises.
Phew, busy day! After dinner I convinced Chris to take me out for a walk around the block - it was a quick one, as the wind and rain had started.
Later, it was the concluding part of The Silence and what was, in my mind, a disappointing end. My friend text to see if I needed company on my walk round the block in the morning. After today, though, I thought I may have a lazy morning.......
Chris had arranged to work from home and we'd planned to have croissants after he came back from dropping the kids off. Unfortunately, I overslept and didn't get up until after 9! By the time I'd exercised and showered it was gone 10, so we decided to shelve the croissants and just have toast. My friend G was due at 11:00, but arrived early. Although we talked about my diagnosis and treatment, it wasn't the only topic of conversation. I really enjoyed her visit and she made me laugh (always guaranteed with G). Liv came home, sat and chatted with us for a bit and then went out with her boyfriend. I didn't see her again until Chris picked her up from work at 22:00!
Suddenly, it was gone 13:00 and there was someone else at the door! It was R with his promise of the Dollhouse DVD. G left and I persuaded him to talk about work, so I could catch up a bit! It was brief as he had to get back and see patients.
Lunch was our croissants from the morning, before Chris had to leave to pick the boys up. Soon after he left, I had a call from S in Spain. An hour later (by which time they'd come home), we said goodbye and I went off to do my long overdue exercises.
Phew, busy day! After dinner I convinced Chris to take me out for a walk around the block - it was a quick one, as the wind and rain had started.
Later, it was the concluding part of The Silence and what was, in my mind, a disappointing end. My friend text to see if I needed company on my walk round the block in the morning. After today, though, I thought I may have a lazy morning.......
Wednesday 14th July
Well, my toenails didn't get painted on Tuesday. I blame it on The Silence on BBC1 which we'd started to watch the night before. What's 1 more day without varnish?!
Wednesday saw my regular 'phone calls from parents scattered around the country. Not much to report since yesterday and no I haven't received my appointment yet. Mum told me a cousin is running the Race for Life and I'll be 1 of the names pinned on her shirt. R had emailed to tell me she was entering and I'm looking forward to the photos, if she manages to take any. It seems strange my name going on there. A few years ago Liv and I entered a Race for Life and she put Auntie M's (R's mum) husband's name on her back and I put Chris' mum's on mine. Somehow, you never imagine it'll be your name.......
The evening saw more visitors, S & T and the booking in of another one in the morning. It was nice catching up with life. Was envious when they left to go for a meal at a local Indian restaurant. Pah! Who needed Indian food when we had spaghetti bolognese?! (Actually it was really nice - hadn't had it for ages - thanks Tins)
The afternoon saw me go for a walk around the block on my own. I feel a bit self conscious, to be honest, so it was head down and just get on with it. My circuit took just under 10 minutes - didn't think that was good enough really, so I eeked it out to 15! Home and smoothie (happy now DadD?).
Finally got my toenails painted! Had to be done before The Silence, of course. It also had to be fitted in between Chris ferrying Liv about. He's not a natural pedicurist, but I'm grateful he tried and on top of everything else he had to do. As I'm sure you can see from the very flattering pics on his blog, they don't look too bad - from a distance!
Wednesday saw my regular 'phone calls from parents scattered around the country. Not much to report since yesterday and no I haven't received my appointment yet. Mum told me a cousin is running the Race for Life and I'll be 1 of the names pinned on her shirt. R had emailed to tell me she was entering and I'm looking forward to the photos, if she manages to take any. It seems strange my name going on there. A few years ago Liv and I entered a Race for Life and she put Auntie M's (R's mum) husband's name on her back and I put Chris' mum's on mine. Somehow, you never imagine it'll be your name.......
The evening saw more visitors, S & T and the booking in of another one in the morning. It was nice catching up with life. Was envious when they left to go for a meal at a local Indian restaurant. Pah! Who needed Indian food when we had spaghetti bolognese?! (Actually it was really nice - hadn't had it for ages - thanks Tins)
The afternoon saw me go for a walk around the block on my own. I feel a bit self conscious, to be honest, so it was head down and just get on with it. My circuit took just under 10 minutes - didn't think that was good enough really, so I eeked it out to 15! Home and smoothie (happy now DadD?).
Finally got my toenails painted! Had to be done before The Silence, of course. It also had to be fitted in between Chris ferrying Liv about. He's not a natural pedicurist, but I'm grateful he tried and on top of everything else he had to do. As I'm sure you can see from the very flattering pics on his blog, they don't look too bad - from a distance!
Tuesday, 13 July 2010
After the excitement of yesterday, things were very quiet today. I managed to read about Michael Bruce Ross (a nasty piece of work). Livi came home early again but laden with Doritos and Galaxy chocolate. Sorry Mum, Dad D (I said I was going to eat healthily to get ready for the chemo onslaught) - promise it won't become a habit!
M came round in the afternoon and it was lovely to chat over a cuppa. Everyone probably though she was there in her official capacity as a district nurse! If I need 1 - I want her! I think she's brilliant.
I seem to be experiencing something called "cording" in my arm/armpit. It's when the lymph fluid becomes hardened and feels, as it says, like a cord under the skin. I can feel the cord in my armpit, but the pain runs down my arm. Stretching is the best thing for it and massage, but that's a bit too painful. I'm trying to stretch as far as I can - a bit difficult when I can't fully straighten my arm but it needs to be done. I find it easier lying on the bed, lifting my arm above my head and letting gravity stretch it. It's also easier without Frances on! I've only had interruptions from the kids a couple of times! I've learnt to cover myself quickly, as they just knock and enter without waiting for a reply!! I'm still doing Morcambe and Wise and the other 7 exercises. It's a wonder I have time to read! Have to persuade Chris to paint my toenails tonight - wish me luck!
M came round in the afternoon and it was lovely to chat over a cuppa. Everyone probably though she was there in her official capacity as a district nurse! If I need 1 - I want her! I think she's brilliant.
I seem to be experiencing something called "cording" in my arm/armpit. It's when the lymph fluid becomes hardened and feels, as it says, like a cord under the skin. I can feel the cord in my armpit, but the pain runs down my arm. Stretching is the best thing for it and massage, but that's a bit too painful. I'm trying to stretch as far as I can - a bit difficult when I can't fully straighten my arm but it needs to be done. I find it easier lying on the bed, lifting my arm above my head and letting gravity stretch it. It's also easier without Frances on! I've only had interruptions from the kids a couple of times! I've learnt to cover myself quickly, as they just knock and enter without waiting for a reply!! I'm still doing Morcambe and Wise and the other 7 exercises. It's a wonder I have time to read! Have to persuade Chris to paint my toenails tonight - wish me luck!
Monday 12th July
Didn't get off to a good start this morning. I decided to have a look at the forums on the Breast Cancer Care website and got sucked into one about a few ladies who had brain mets (breast cancer spread to the brain). Of course this set me thinking.......and crying.........One of the ladies died last week. Chris sat with me for a while and listened while I talked and sobbed. BUT, thankfully, life goes on and he had to take the kids to school and I needed to to do my exercises!
Rang Irene this morning to arrange to go in and have my fluid drained. There was definitely an accumulation, but not as much as previously, but it was becoming uncomfortable to wear Frances, so I thought it best to get it done. Irene said to pop in at 15:00. Chris had already gone to work after taking the kids to school - we knew it wouldn't be until the afternoon as Irene had resus training in the morning.
Let Chris know and then texted the friends from Manchester to let them know we'd need to leave by about 14:00 (thinking about parking and traffic). They were about to set off at 09:30, so it was going to be a bit touch and go as to whether they'd get to us in time.
Livi rang at 08:40 to say that she was outside her work experience placement (a local kennels) and was nervous about going in. Ever the supportive mother, I told her to just get on with it and go in! A text from her later told me she'd made it.
Had a phone call from R (one of the docs from work) to check if I needed anything and to tell me about series one of Dollhouse that he'll bring round to keep me occupied - looking forward to watching it. M (1 of the district nurses) text to ask if I'd like a visit, she may pop round tomorrow.
Livi rang at 11:30 to say she'd finished for the day (alright for some!) and was on her way home. She'd enjoyed her first day (well, morning!) and said there were some lovely dogs there, so now, with me at home, we could get 1 (cuckoo, cuckoo)!
A call from S & M, the friends from Manchester, came at 13:40 to say they were just round the corner, so it would be a flying visit. It was lovely to see them as it's been 10 years since we last met up. Neither look any different. M is 1 of my Mum's oldest and best friends and S, her daughter. We spent a lot of time with them in Manchester, before we moved down to Cornwall. Our 14:00 deadline was suddenly 14:15 and we all had to shoot off. Wish we'd had longer.
Naturally, there was loads of traffic into Bath and we got to RUH dead on 15:00, so Chris dropped me off and went to park the car. The waiting room was almost empty and I didn't have to wait long to see Irene. There's no clinic on a Monday and 2 of the radiographers were at a conference, so it was unusually quiet. She drained the fluid off - less than half the amount than last week, which is encouraging. There are workshops called "look good, feel better" that are held at the RUH once a month. These are run by beauty consultants, with hints and tips on make up, how to draw on eyebrows etc and free samples. So, Irene took my number and I'll wait to be called for the next one. We had a chat about my blip in the morning and she gave me a few tips on how to visualise my cancer and the forthcoming treatments. This is something I haven't been able to do yet. People tell me I have to be positive, but I don't really feel it. I think if I can visualise it, it will help me fight it. Apparently one lady called hers Colin (sorry Col!). I need to find an analogy I can relate to. Mum suggested St George and the dragon. I did think about Lancaster bombers (chemo) and spitfires (radiotherapy), but not quite sure what the cancer would be. Any other suggestions gratefully received!
We stopped off at the garden centre for a cake and a coffee and sat outside by the pond. A friend, N, rang from Brighton and then Chris got a text from the boys to say that although they'd got the bus home, neither had a key! Normality still exists, thankfully!
Rang Irene this morning to arrange to go in and have my fluid drained. There was definitely an accumulation, but not as much as previously, but it was becoming uncomfortable to wear Frances, so I thought it best to get it done. Irene said to pop in at 15:00. Chris had already gone to work after taking the kids to school - we knew it wouldn't be until the afternoon as Irene had resus training in the morning.
Let Chris know and then texted the friends from Manchester to let them know we'd need to leave by about 14:00 (thinking about parking and traffic). They were about to set off at 09:30, so it was going to be a bit touch and go as to whether they'd get to us in time.
Livi rang at 08:40 to say that she was outside her work experience placement (a local kennels) and was nervous about going in. Ever the supportive mother, I told her to just get on with it and go in! A text from her later told me she'd made it.
Had a phone call from R (one of the docs from work) to check if I needed anything and to tell me about series one of Dollhouse that he'll bring round to keep me occupied - looking forward to watching it. M (1 of the district nurses) text to ask if I'd like a visit, she may pop round tomorrow.
Livi rang at 11:30 to say she'd finished for the day (alright for some!) and was on her way home. She'd enjoyed her first day (well, morning!) and said there were some lovely dogs there, so now, with me at home, we could get 1 (cuckoo, cuckoo)!
A call from S & M, the friends from Manchester, came at 13:40 to say they were just round the corner, so it would be a flying visit. It was lovely to see them as it's been 10 years since we last met up. Neither look any different. M is 1 of my Mum's oldest and best friends and S, her daughter. We spent a lot of time with them in Manchester, before we moved down to Cornwall. Our 14:00 deadline was suddenly 14:15 and we all had to shoot off. Wish we'd had longer.
Naturally, there was loads of traffic into Bath and we got to RUH dead on 15:00, so Chris dropped me off and went to park the car. The waiting room was almost empty and I didn't have to wait long to see Irene. There's no clinic on a Monday and 2 of the radiographers were at a conference, so it was unusually quiet. She drained the fluid off - less than half the amount than last week, which is encouraging. There are workshops called "look good, feel better" that are held at the RUH once a month. These are run by beauty consultants, with hints and tips on make up, how to draw on eyebrows etc and free samples. So, Irene took my number and I'll wait to be called for the next one. We had a chat about my blip in the morning and she gave me a few tips on how to visualise my cancer and the forthcoming treatments. This is something I haven't been able to do yet. People tell me I have to be positive, but I don't really feel it. I think if I can visualise it, it will help me fight it. Apparently one lady called hers Colin (sorry Col!). I need to find an analogy I can relate to. Mum suggested St George and the dragon. I did think about Lancaster bombers (chemo) and spitfires (radiotherapy), but not quite sure what the cancer would be. Any other suggestions gratefully received!
We stopped off at the garden centre for a cake and a coffee and sat outside by the pond. A friend, N, rang from Brighton and then Chris got a text from the boys to say that although they'd got the bus home, neither had a key! Normality still exists, thankfully!
Sunday, 11 July 2010
Woke up to a text from Vaughan, sent at 06:30, could we pick him up at 06:50! I spoke to him and he asked if we were on our way. I told him we were still in bed and his Dad was asleep. This woke Chris and up he got to go and fetch his son.
Naturally, they both went back to bed when they got home. Chris said Vaughan was very tired and cold (he'd lent his sleeping bag to someone else!) and had taken a couple of tablets as he wasn't feeling too good. Vaughan popped in and told us he hadn't drunk that much, but that he was very tired (mmmmm....). He ended up getting up at around 13:00 and was quiet for the rest of the day (most unlike him) - obviously very "tired".
I didn't go back to sleep, finally getting up at 08:00. Changed my routine this morning and did my exercises before my shower! Will have to be careful - at this rate the excitement will be too much! Had a quick walk for papers after a late breakfast and then watched a WW2 film with George Peppard and Sophia Loren in the afternoon.
Fell asleep on the sofa after lunch (must be the excitement earlier in the day) and woke up to the doorbell. It was Sam round to pick Livi up. Naturally, she wasn't ready, so he came in for a chat. Chris made some comment about me dribbling in my sleep, but it wasn't until after he left that I realised I'd got beetroot round my mouth, so maybe I had been dribbling! (Thanks for telling me!!).
Finally got my walk along the canal after a lovely roast lamb dinner, provided by my mother, cooked by my husband. Could have walked for a lot longer, but there were loads of midges and I'm slightly paranoid about getting bitten on my arm. For those who don't know - once the lymph nodes have been taken away, there's an increased risk of infection, swelling and cellulitis. So, I have to be careful about cuts, bites and stings and I'm not supposed to have any injections or blood pressure readings from that arm. I'm sure I'll get used to being careful, but for now I'm just obsessed!
I have to say, I'm looking forward to getting some fluid drained off tomorrow at the breast unit. Have to ring Irene early as they have resus. training in the morning. I'm hoping I can co-ordinate it with some friends from Manchester who want to visit on their way down to Devon. It would be a shame to miss them, but I'm not sure what time I'll be going over to RUH.
I'm hoping Livi will be home soon, she has work experience tomorrow and I need my bed!
Naturally, they both went back to bed when they got home. Chris said Vaughan was very tired and cold (he'd lent his sleeping bag to someone else!) and had taken a couple of tablets as he wasn't feeling too good. Vaughan popped in and told us he hadn't drunk that much, but that he was very tired (mmmmm....). He ended up getting up at around 13:00 and was quiet for the rest of the day (most unlike him) - obviously very "tired".
I didn't go back to sleep, finally getting up at 08:00. Changed my routine this morning and did my exercises before my shower! Will have to be careful - at this rate the excitement will be too much! Had a quick walk for papers after a late breakfast and then watched a WW2 film with George Peppard and Sophia Loren in the afternoon.
Fell asleep on the sofa after lunch (must be the excitement earlier in the day) and woke up to the doorbell. It was Sam round to pick Livi up. Naturally, she wasn't ready, so he came in for a chat. Chris made some comment about me dribbling in my sleep, but it wasn't until after he left that I realised I'd got beetroot round my mouth, so maybe I had been dribbling! (Thanks for telling me!!).
Finally got my walk along the canal after a lovely roast lamb dinner, provided by my mother, cooked by my husband. Could have walked for a lot longer, but there were loads of midges and I'm slightly paranoid about getting bitten on my arm. For those who don't know - once the lymph nodes have been taken away, there's an increased risk of infection, swelling and cellulitis. So, I have to be careful about cuts, bites and stings and I'm not supposed to have any injections or blood pressure readings from that arm. I'm sure I'll get used to being careful, but for now I'm just obsessed!
I have to say, I'm looking forward to getting some fluid drained off tomorrow at the breast unit. Have to ring Irene early as they have resus. training in the morning. I'm hoping I can co-ordinate it with some friends from Manchester who want to visit on their way down to Devon. It would be a shame to miss them, but I'm not sure what time I'll be going over to RUH.
I'm hoping Livi will be home soon, she has work experience tomorrow and I need my bed!
Saturday 10th July
Didn't have such a good day today. I was uncomfortable from when I got up. My exercises were a pain (literally) and the skin on my arm felt more sensitive than usual.
We decided we would have a walk along the canal and the boys said they'd come with us. By the time they'd decided to get washed and dressed there wasn't enough time before Vaughan had to go round to his friend's. So Chris and I had a walk round to the garage for the papers, with idea that we'd go for our canal walk later. Of course that was before Olivia got back!
Vaughan was duly packed off to his friend's, forced to take a sleeping bag ("I won't need it!"), as a few of them were camping out for the night.
Not long after, Chris went to pick Livi and Sam up from the station. I didn't see him again for the next 3 hours! As you've probably seen from his blog, they spend the afternoon in the Minor Injury Unit, getting Livi's toe looked at. Eventually, she came limping home and parked herself on the sofa for the rest of the afternoon.
As I'd felt a bit sick and light headed during the afternoon, we didn't manage our canal walk after all. I've put it down to the weather. It was so hot and humid and I probably hadn't drunk enough water. I ended up putting my pyjama top on around 4 in the hope it'd make me more comfortable. I did feel better in the evening.
I text Vaughan to let him know the football score, but didn't hear anything back.....mmmmm.....must be having a good time (!).
We decided we would have a walk along the canal and the boys said they'd come with us. By the time they'd decided to get washed and dressed there wasn't enough time before Vaughan had to go round to his friend's. So Chris and I had a walk round to the garage for the papers, with idea that we'd go for our canal walk later. Of course that was before Olivia got back!
Vaughan was duly packed off to his friend's, forced to take a sleeping bag ("I won't need it!"), as a few of them were camping out for the night.
Not long after, Chris went to pick Livi and Sam up from the station. I didn't see him again for the next 3 hours! As you've probably seen from his blog, they spend the afternoon in the Minor Injury Unit, getting Livi's toe looked at. Eventually, she came limping home and parked herself on the sofa for the rest of the afternoon.
As I'd felt a bit sick and light headed during the afternoon, we didn't manage our canal walk after all. I've put it down to the weather. It was so hot and humid and I probably hadn't drunk enough water. I ended up putting my pyjama top on around 4 in the hope it'd make me more comfortable. I did feel better in the evening.
I text Vaughan to let him know the football score, but didn't hear anything back.....mmmmm.....must be having a good time (!).
Friday, 9 July 2010
Slight change to the usual routine, this morning. I decided to do some routine maintenance (no need to go into detail, ladies, you know what I mean). By the time I'd done that and my exercises, I didn't have breakfast until 11:00 - no bakery breakfast now :-( Chris had left instructions that I had to get a paper, so I would have to go out for a walk. I settled down first, though, to continue with a book on serial killers that I've been trying to get through. I had 1 paragraph left on John Martin Scripps and then I thought I'd go for my walk. First Mum rang, then while I was on the 'phone to her, S came round. I didn't get to finish the chapter until gone 4. Not that I'm complaining, they're a welcome distraction.
It was lovely to see S. She was worried because I'd not added to the blog! S came on my paper walk with me. It was really hot! When we got back, she pootled off on her bike to pick up her holiday pics and then joined me in my exercises when she came back. More chatting followed (we're good at that) before she left.
Not long afterwards, Chris and the boys came home and not long after that I fell asleep on the sofa! Had a quiet evening and we're just watching the fabulous Tom Jones on Jonathon Ross. Livi's back tomorrow. Chris is picking them up from Chippenham early afternoon. There may be a stop at the Minor Injuries Unit on the way home, as she stubbed her toe tonight and says she can hardly walk on it! Right , think I'm up to date now (will try not to leave it so long next time ). Bed beckons.....
It was lovely to see S. She was worried because I'd not added to the blog! S came on my paper walk with me. It was really hot! When we got back, she pootled off on her bike to pick up her holiday pics and then joined me in my exercises when she came back. More chatting followed (we're good at that) before she left.
Not long afterwards, Chris and the boys came home and not long after that I fell asleep on the sofa! Had a quiet evening and we're just watching the fabulous Tom Jones on Jonathon Ross. Livi's back tomorrow. Chris is picking them up from Chippenham early afternoon. There may be a stop at the Minor Injuries Unit on the way home, as she stubbed her toe tonight and says she can hardly walk on it! Right , think I'm up to date now (will try not to leave it so long next time ). Bed beckons.....
Thursday 8th July
He couldn't resist it today - doughnuts! No, we didn't have them for breakfast, we saved them for later!
One of my exercises requires me to walk my hands up the wall. Dad D decided to mark it (in pen!) so that I could see an improvement. He's been fixing the coffee whilst I've been doing my exercises before breakfast. He keeps popping in, though, just to check I'm pushing myself and I keep popping into the kitchen to make sure he's grinding the beans ok!
When we've finished it's "right where are we going today?". We decided on a walk around The Courts in Holt, a National Trust garden. Another leisurely walk, at my pace. Lovely garden to stroll around, beautiful plants and shrubs. There was an artist in one of the outbuildings, painting flowers in watercolours, so we stopped for a look. I was aware of the drive home he had, so we set off home for lunch and our doughnuts. All too soon, he was gone.
Chris picked the boys up - a little bit later as Adam had a half hour detention for not doing his RE homework! I had a hair appointment, so Chris gave me lift down town. Luckily A had told my hairdresser about the situation when she'd seen him on Tues, so at least I didn't have to go through it all in the salon. What did I want him to do? I'd already thought about having it chopped, so we talked about that and whether it was worth me having the roots done. He didn't think it was and so he got to work with his scissors. I've decided to go very short because of the forthcoming chemo. I realise that I may not lose it, but the chances of that are slim. At this moment in time, I don't feel too bothered by that. Of course that may change. I feel it will be easier for me to cope with clumps of short hair coming out rather than clumps of longer hair. My hairdresser is happy for me to give him a shout if I need him to clip it all off. He said it may grow back thicker and darker - that'll be interesting, I've not seen my natural colour for years! It'll be a new natural colour.
Chris picked me up and didn't bat an eyelid. He says I've always suited really short hair - I think he's just being kind at the moment (won't last!). The boys didn't bother either - maybe he had a word with them before they saw me.
Looked forward to bed again!
One of my exercises requires me to walk my hands up the wall. Dad D decided to mark it (in pen!) so that I could see an improvement. He's been fixing the coffee whilst I've been doing my exercises before breakfast. He keeps popping in, though, just to check I'm pushing myself and I keep popping into the kitchen to make sure he's grinding the beans ok!
When we've finished it's "right where are we going today?". We decided on a walk around The Courts in Holt, a National Trust garden. Another leisurely walk, at my pace. Lovely garden to stroll around, beautiful plants and shrubs. There was an artist in one of the outbuildings, painting flowers in watercolours, so we stopped for a look. I was aware of the drive home he had, so we set off home for lunch and our doughnuts. All too soon, he was gone.
Chris picked the boys up - a little bit later as Adam had a half hour detention for not doing his RE homework! I had a hair appointment, so Chris gave me lift down town. Luckily A had told my hairdresser about the situation when she'd seen him on Tues, so at least I didn't have to go through it all in the salon. What did I want him to do? I'd already thought about having it chopped, so we talked about that and whether it was worth me having the roots done. He didn't think it was and so he got to work with his scissors. I've decided to go very short because of the forthcoming chemo. I realise that I may not lose it, but the chances of that are slim. At this moment in time, I don't feel too bothered by that. Of course that may change. I feel it will be easier for me to cope with clumps of short hair coming out rather than clumps of longer hair. My hairdresser is happy for me to give him a shout if I need him to clip it all off. He said it may grow back thicker and darker - that'll be interesting, I've not seen my natural colour for years! It'll be a new natural colour.
Chris picked me up and didn't bat an eyelid. He says I've always suited really short hair - I think he's just being kind at the moment (won't last!). The boys didn't bother either - maybe he had a word with them before they saw me.
Looked forward to bed again!
Hello!
Sorry I haven't posted, not sure where the time's gone.
It's been nice having Dad D down and he's forced me out of the house (probably needed!).
On Wednesday, (after Honey and Nut bread from the bakery!), we set off in the car to drive to Lacock for a walk. After seeing the SALE sign in Leekes, though, Dad D drove right round the roundabout and parked up. After wandering round for a bit, we came out with 2 single summer duvets (we've been using a 12 tog!), covers, a pair of fitflops and a t-shirt (with a high neck). Well, at least I had a bit of exercise whilst shopping! Must be time for a coffee.......No chance, it was off to Lacock next for a walk! Actually, it was really nice. We strolled round at my pace (that'll be slow then).
Memories of last years scarecrow trail, Jan and Gaynor filled my mind. It's a long story, but the upshot is - driving round in the dark, we were scarecrow spotting after an evening out. Seeing one by a door, we all stared and tried to guess what the theme was.......until it moved! It was a fella stood outside his front door, watching the world go by! You had to be there, but we nearly wet ourselves. I miss Jan.
After picking the boys up from school, Adam was desperate to take his Grandad D to Shakeaway for a milkshake. Vaughan didn't fancy it, so they dropped him off. I naturally was asleep by this time, the door was locked, no keys......you can imagine. I jumped out of my skin as I wasn't expecting anyone home yet and had to let Vaughan in through the back gate!
Had Chris' latest dish of salmon and prawn kebabs for tea - delish. Bed was lovely, nobody stealing the covers or me throwing them off and piling them onto Chris, just the gentle (!) sound of him snoring.
It's been nice having Dad D down and he's forced me out of the house (probably needed!).
On Wednesday, (after Honey and Nut bread from the bakery!), we set off in the car to drive to Lacock for a walk. After seeing the SALE sign in Leekes, though, Dad D drove right round the roundabout and parked up. After wandering round for a bit, we came out with 2 single summer duvets (we've been using a 12 tog!), covers, a pair of fitflops and a t-shirt (with a high neck). Well, at least I had a bit of exercise whilst shopping! Must be time for a coffee.......No chance, it was off to Lacock next for a walk! Actually, it was really nice. We strolled round at my pace (that'll be slow then).
Memories of last years scarecrow trail, Jan and Gaynor filled my mind. It's a long story, but the upshot is - driving round in the dark, we were scarecrow spotting after an evening out. Seeing one by a door, we all stared and tried to guess what the theme was.......until it moved! It was a fella stood outside his front door, watching the world go by! You had to be there, but we nearly wet ourselves. I miss Jan.
After picking the boys up from school, Adam was desperate to take his Grandad D to Shakeaway for a milkshake. Vaughan didn't fancy it, so they dropped him off. I naturally was asleep by this time, the door was locked, no keys......you can imagine. I jumped out of my skin as I wasn't expecting anyone home yet and had to let Vaughan in through the back gate!
Had Chris' latest dish of salmon and prawn kebabs for tea - delish. Bed was lovely, nobody stealing the covers or me throwing them off and piling them onto Chris, just the gentle (!) sound of him snoring.
Tuesday, 6 July 2010
Breast Clinic - Tuesday 6th July
Croissants! Yep, you guessed it, Dad D found the bakery! He's just as impressed as Mum is, especially as he was faced with trays of freshly baked doughnuts oozing with jam. He stayed firm though and stuck to croissants and a nut loaf (not sure he'll be so disciplined later on in the week!).
Had a few deliveries throughout the morning. A gorgeous flower card from R & S, then 2 large boxes arrived at the same time. 1 was a bouquet from Marks and Spencer (including freesias which I love), with love and best wishes from friends in Bridgwater. The other 1 was a bouquet from Next from T, one of my course buddies. All beautiful, thank you so much.
Not long after Chris came home at lunchtime, I had a visitor. My dear friend A, on a visit from Taunton. I haven't seen her in ages and was thrilled. Her gift also included freesias. This was bound to be a good omen for my afternoon visit to RUH! After A left, we went for lunch at a local garden centre, before Chris and I continued onto RUH and Dad D went to pick the boys up from school.
We decided to drive and managed to park quite quickly at the hospital. The breast unit was packed - we got the last 2 free chairs. A notice on the board informed us that 1 of the consultants had a 3 hour wait! Oh joy. We managed to get a paper and magazine to while away the time only to find that it was so hot we were falling asleep! I was so tired (my body telling me to sleep again and it'll all go away). We didn't have that long to wait in the end and were called through to a small room with a couch and 1 chair. Another wait for Irene and Mr Maddox to join us. It turned out they were running over 3 hours behind from the morning clinic! Irene took her usual place on the couch near me and Chris stood up while Mr M explained the results of the analysis:
All of this means that there is a high risk that there are cancer cells elsewhere, so they are going to chuck everything at me - chemo, radiotherapy and hormone treatment. They will follow each other in that order.
The chemo treats the whole body, so any cells anywhere will be killed off.
The radiotherapy is localised, so will target the breast area and under the arm. Unfortunately this means that my arm will swell (lymphoedema) and I will always have to wear a compression sleeve. Oh deep bloody joy!
Then hormone treatment which will stop the Oestrogen and therefore restrict the growth of the cancer cells (I think!).
This will all be discussed with the Oncologist in about 3 weeks time. They won't start anything until the wound has healed, which isn't looking too bad at all. Irene took off the dressings and steristrips. Looks quite neat really. There was 1 small scab that fell off and continued to leak, so a small dressing was put back on there. Then she drained off the fluid that had built up - quite a lot of it! Chris was very brave and only needed to look away when she inserted the needle!!!! This may happen a few times and I need to go back once a week to have it drained. I'm to ring on Monday morning and sort out a time to go over.
So, in all, not a bad visit. Just confirmation of what's going to happen, which they've suggested all along.
I'm now sat, full up after a Sainsbury's indian meal, next to Vaughan who's getting quite animated watching Uruguay v Holland (he's got Holland in our sweepstake!).
Think it may be an early night for me though - been a busy day.
Had a few deliveries throughout the morning. A gorgeous flower card from R & S, then 2 large boxes arrived at the same time. 1 was a bouquet from Marks and Spencer (including freesias which I love), with love and best wishes from friends in Bridgwater. The other 1 was a bouquet from Next from T, one of my course buddies. All beautiful, thank you so much.
Not long after Chris came home at lunchtime, I had a visitor. My dear friend A, on a visit from Taunton. I haven't seen her in ages and was thrilled. Her gift also included freesias. This was bound to be a good omen for my afternoon visit to RUH! After A left, we went for lunch at a local garden centre, before Chris and I continued onto RUH and Dad D went to pick the boys up from school.
We decided to drive and managed to park quite quickly at the hospital. The breast unit was packed - we got the last 2 free chairs. A notice on the board informed us that 1 of the consultants had a 3 hour wait! Oh joy. We managed to get a paper and magazine to while away the time only to find that it was so hot we were falling asleep! I was so tired (my body telling me to sleep again and it'll all go away). We didn't have that long to wait in the end and were called through to a small room with a couch and 1 chair. Another wait for Irene and Mr Maddox to join us. It turned out they were running over 3 hours behind from the morning clinic! Irene took her usual place on the couch near me and Chris stood up while Mr M explained the results of the analysis:
- 2 tumours in the breast measured 2.6cm and 1.5cm.
- They were grade 2 mucinous (slimy - not a common type) DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma in Situ).
- There was evidence of vascular invasion.
- 6 out of the 17 lymph nodes were affected, in fact the cancer had burst out of the nodes, apparently.
- The cancer is Oestrogen receptive. They measure this on a scale of 0 - 300 and mine was 300, so highly Oestrogen positive (this is a good thing by all accounts and will respond to hormone treatment).
All of this means that there is a high risk that there are cancer cells elsewhere, so they are going to chuck everything at me - chemo, radiotherapy and hormone treatment. They will follow each other in that order.
The chemo treats the whole body, so any cells anywhere will be killed off.
The radiotherapy is localised, so will target the breast area and under the arm. Unfortunately this means that my arm will swell (lymphoedema) and I will always have to wear a compression sleeve. Oh deep bloody joy!
Then hormone treatment which will stop the Oestrogen and therefore restrict the growth of the cancer cells (I think!).
This will all be discussed with the Oncologist in about 3 weeks time. They won't start anything until the wound has healed, which isn't looking too bad at all. Irene took off the dressings and steristrips. Looks quite neat really. There was 1 small scab that fell off and continued to leak, so a small dressing was put back on there. Then she drained off the fluid that had built up - quite a lot of it! Chris was very brave and only needed to look away when she inserted the needle!!!! This may happen a few times and I need to go back once a week to have it drained. I'm to ring on Monday morning and sort out a time to go over.
So, in all, not a bad visit. Just confirmation of what's going to happen, which they've suggested all along.
I'm now sat, full up after a Sainsbury's indian meal, next to Vaughan who's getting quite animated watching Uruguay v Holland (he's got Holland in our sweepstake!).
Think it may be an early night for me though - been a busy day.
Monday, 5 July 2010
My first day on my own - well nearly. Monday 5th July
Was up before everyone left. It's hard to sleep whilst the Tinsley's are getting ready in the mornings!
Usual routine - painkillers, wait, Morcambe and Wise, shower, dress, breakfast, stockings(!). This morning included some new exercises! Irene had told me to wait until the 5th to start these - ooh, progress! There are 7 sets to do 3 times a day for 6 weeks. These are to get my arm working normally, or in my case back to how it was pre-op. After breaking my elbow last year, it's never been back to normal. It's quite strange really as this time last year I was off sick with that! Beginning to make a habit of this!
Had some more cards this morning, one of which made me howl (thanks Auntie M) - an old couple, him sat on the computer telling his wife he'd just blogged. She's there frowning, with a thought bubble saying "and they were clean on this morning". It just tickled me.
The afternoon saw my friend, S, arrive (I know lots of S's!). She'd arrived back off holiday that morning and wanted to see I was ok. She looks fabulous. Lovely to hear about it all and to bring her up to speed with me. Dad D arrived not long after and after a brief chat, he went to pick the boys up from school.
Chris did tea and most of the evening was spent listening to the boys who seemed to have verbal diarrhoea and didn't know when to shut up. A plea for help from L at work got my brain in gear and I emailed back with a few suggestions (made me feel useful).
Tomorrow sees another clinic day. One that will be full of mixed emotion I fear. I should have my dressings taken off and the fluid drained, which will be a relief. Although, I fear I should've gone sooner to sort the fluid out as it appears to have leaked through one of the dressings. Maybe the new exercises have prompted that? Anyway can't do anything about it now, just have to wait until tomorrow afternoon. Also we should get some more results from the analysis of the mastectomy and lymph nodes. I'm hoping we will be told what and when the next course of treatment will be.
One day at a time.........
Usual routine - painkillers, wait, Morcambe and Wise, shower, dress, breakfast, stockings(!). This morning included some new exercises! Irene had told me to wait until the 5th to start these - ooh, progress! There are 7 sets to do 3 times a day for 6 weeks. These are to get my arm working normally, or in my case back to how it was pre-op. After breaking my elbow last year, it's never been back to normal. It's quite strange really as this time last year I was off sick with that! Beginning to make a habit of this!
Had some more cards this morning, one of which made me howl (thanks Auntie M) - an old couple, him sat on the computer telling his wife he'd just blogged. She's there frowning, with a thought bubble saying "and they were clean on this morning". It just tickled me.
The afternoon saw my friend, S, arrive (I know lots of S's!). She'd arrived back off holiday that morning and wanted to see I was ok. She looks fabulous. Lovely to hear about it all and to bring her up to speed with me. Dad D arrived not long after and after a brief chat, he went to pick the boys up from school.
Chris did tea and most of the evening was spent listening to the boys who seemed to have verbal diarrhoea and didn't know when to shut up. A plea for help from L at work got my brain in gear and I emailed back with a few suggestions (made me feel useful).
Tomorrow sees another clinic day. One that will be full of mixed emotion I fear. I should have my dressings taken off and the fluid drained, which will be a relief. Although, I fear I should've gone sooner to sort the fluid out as it appears to have leaked through one of the dressings. Maybe the new exercises have prompted that? Anyway can't do anything about it now, just have to wait until tomorrow afternoon. Also we should get some more results from the analysis of the mastectomy and lymph nodes. I'm hoping we will be told what and when the next course of treatment will be.
One day at a time.........
Visitors! Sunday 4th July.
First one up! Left Chris in bed - let him sleep (he keeps telling me he needs it!). Went up eventually around 09:30 plenty of time for pain killers to kick in. Woke Chris up after my shower and kicked him out of bed. The boys didn't surface until much later. It gave us the opportunity to enjoy cranberry and nut toast in peace (a present from my absent mummy)!
Mid morning saw my first visitor at home since the op - a friend, S, who I haven't seen for ages. It was lovely to see her and catch up. A text followed from another friend wondering if I fancied a visit. Had chance for a chill before H came around 15:30 (with cake!). Again, nice to catch up with the real world.
Had a lovely roast for tea (thanks Tins) and then struggled to keep my eyes open for the rest of the evening! After waking up to the room spinning round I retired to bed!
Mid morning saw my first visitor at home since the op - a friend, S, who I haven't seen for ages. It was lovely to see her and catch up. A text followed from another friend wondering if I fancied a visit. Had chance for a chill before H came around 15:30 (with cake!). Again, nice to catch up with the real world.
Had a lovely roast for tea (thanks Tins) and then struggled to keep my eyes open for the rest of the evening! After waking up to the room spinning round I retired to bed!
Saturday, 3 July 2010
Back on our own
On Friday Mum did her last bakery visit for a while and found that all the croissant had been sold! I have to say she's very impressed with the bakery though. They told her to ring to secure her order next time and gave her a card. In the meantime we had to make do with Sainsbury's instead.
My sick cert was waiting at my GP surgery, so Mum popped round to pick that up. She also asked them for a prescription exemption form. There was a script for some Tramadol for me if I needed it. When we looked at the exemption form there was no box for cancer, so I looked on the internet. From April '09, cancer was included in the list of medical conditions that are exempt from prescription charges and a new form was produced. Unfortunately, my GP surgery was still giving out the old ones! Ah well, I'll ask at the breast clinic on Tuesday. I'm running out of paracetamol too, but until I get the exemption certificate, it'll be cheaper for me to buy packets from the supermarket.
I had a better day with my arm. It didn't seem to be troubling me as much. Whether I'm getting used it, the painkillers are building up or it's improving, I don't know. It wasn't so comfortable in the evening though, still, can't have it all ways.
The time soon came round for Mum to leave. I'd been dreading this all day. I know we need time on our own, but she's been such a huge help to me - practically, psychologically and emotionally. I was determined though to save my tears until she'd left. Yeah right! As soon as she sat in the car I started. Picture the scene - I'm stood in full view in my compression stockings, slippers and a rogue boob that's higher than the other one, crying my eyes out. I think it's only fair to mention that I was wearing other clothes too - I'd finally changed the oversized shirt (it was starting to pong). She finally arrived home around 22:15 after a good trip. I could hear Dad chuntering in the background that she must have been going at some speed to get home that quick!
Today, Saturday, has been fairly quiet. Chris had to get up early to take Livi and her boyfriend to the train station as they're spending the week in Newquay with his family. I'd got up by the time he came home and taken my tablets - it's always really sore first thing in the morning. Once they'd had chance to take effect, I went for a shower. I also managed to get some female maintenance done by myself (for which I'm sure Chris was grateful!).
After having some cranberry and nut loaf toasted (thanks Mum), I settled down to read the paper. I managed to get myself in a comfortable position so my arm didn't hurt. Only problem with that is I don't want to get up and do my Morcambe and Wise's! Promise I did though.
After dropping Vaughan off at a friends, Chris came back an did the 3 of us some lunch, which I managed to spill down the front of my t-shirt! After I'd changed he took me for a short walk along the canal. We only walked between locks and then sat down and watched a boat go through one of them. I guess we were only out for about 3/4 of an hour, but I promptly fell asleep on the sofa when we got back! I didn't realise it'd take that much out of me.
Vaughan's not due back until 23:00, if I can stay awake that long...........
My sick cert was waiting at my GP surgery, so Mum popped round to pick that up. She also asked them for a prescription exemption form. There was a script for some Tramadol for me if I needed it. When we looked at the exemption form there was no box for cancer, so I looked on the internet. From April '09, cancer was included in the list of medical conditions that are exempt from prescription charges and a new form was produced. Unfortunately, my GP surgery was still giving out the old ones! Ah well, I'll ask at the breast clinic on Tuesday. I'm running out of paracetamol too, but until I get the exemption certificate, it'll be cheaper for me to buy packets from the supermarket.
I had a better day with my arm. It didn't seem to be troubling me as much. Whether I'm getting used it, the painkillers are building up or it's improving, I don't know. It wasn't so comfortable in the evening though, still, can't have it all ways.
The time soon came round for Mum to leave. I'd been dreading this all day. I know we need time on our own, but she's been such a huge help to me - practically, psychologically and emotionally. I was determined though to save my tears until she'd left. Yeah right! As soon as she sat in the car I started. Picture the scene - I'm stood in full view in my compression stockings, slippers and a rogue boob that's higher than the other one, crying my eyes out. I think it's only fair to mention that I was wearing other clothes too - I'd finally changed the oversized shirt (it was starting to pong). She finally arrived home around 22:15 after a good trip. I could hear Dad chuntering in the background that she must have been going at some speed to get home that quick!
Today, Saturday, has been fairly quiet. Chris had to get up early to take Livi and her boyfriend to the train station as they're spending the week in Newquay with his family. I'd got up by the time he came home and taken my tablets - it's always really sore first thing in the morning. Once they'd had chance to take effect, I went for a shower. I also managed to get some female maintenance done by myself (for which I'm sure Chris was grateful!).
After having some cranberry and nut loaf toasted (thanks Mum), I settled down to read the paper. I managed to get myself in a comfortable position so my arm didn't hurt. Only problem with that is I don't want to get up and do my Morcambe and Wise's! Promise I did though.
After dropping Vaughan off at a friends, Chris came back an did the 3 of us some lunch, which I managed to spill down the front of my t-shirt! After I'd changed he took me for a short walk along the canal. We only walked between locks and then sat down and watched a boat go through one of them. I guess we were only out for about 3/4 of an hour, but I promptly fell asleep on the sofa when we got back! I didn't realise it'd take that much out of me.
Vaughan's not due back until 23:00, if I can stay awake that long...........
Friday, 2 July 2010
Busy day - Thursday 1st July
I can't believe we're in July already!
Adam had an appointment at the Orthodontist this morning so Chris took a work from home day. Good news on their return - Adam's braces will be coming off in September! He only has a couple more appointments.
Chris buried himself in the dining room (which is also doubling up as Mum's bedroom!) and we didn't see much of him for the rest of the day.
I rang Irene to ask about the swelling under my arm and the dressings. She as always was very patient with me, telling me that everything I'm experiencing is normal. She will drain the fluid in clinic on Tuesday and also sort the dressings out. She did say that if I was really uncomfortable, then to go in on Friday and she'd have a look. I'm sure I can manage until Tuesday though. She said that some ladies liken the feeling to having a rugby ball under their arm. I can relate to that!
That sorted, I then rang my GP surgery to see about having a sick certificate. The receptionist told me I'd need an appointment with the doctor. When I asked if my discharge summary had been scanned into my notes, she looked and said she'd get a doctor to ring me back rather than use an appointment.
Then it was time to go bite checking (gosh what a busy morning for me!!). The bite on Mum's leg definitely looked like it had grown a bit, so I took a photo so we could compare later! It wasn't causing her too much grief, so we decided to leave it and check later on.
A doctor from the surgery rang me back to discuss the sick cert. She was lovely. She told me she wasn't there permanently and that it might be a good idea to make contact with another permanent GP to develop continuity. We talked about my pain relief and the fact that I wouldn't be going back to work for a while yet. She told me to contact them if there was anything I needed and that they would be there for me as well as the specialists at the hospital.
School run over and cuppa drunk, Mum and I decided to go for a little walk before dinner. We just went round the block and took it slowly. There was a slight breeze and it was really nice to get out -it's been so hot. I looked stunning in a blue oversized shirt, brown trousers, black flat shoes and my sexy petrol blue compression stockings. Oh and no make-up! Anybody who knows me, knows I don't go anywhere without make-up. Can't be bothered though at this moment in time. I mean quite honestly, what difference is a bit of mascara and lippy going to make to the dazzling outfits I'm wearing??!!
Popped in to see Chris when we got home, only to find him creating his own blog. I think he found it really difficult to concentrate on work, so gave up in the end. If anyone is interested in reading what's going on his mind (I think he'd quite like to know too!) his blog can be found at http://christinsle.blogspot.com/ Anyone can leave comments and I'm sure he'd be grateful for them.
Finally in the evening, after dinner, the Dicolfenac started to work it's magic on my tummy! Ah well, will have to lay off that again for a bit. Hope my night's not too disturbed....!
Adam had an appointment at the Orthodontist this morning so Chris took a work from home day. Good news on their return - Adam's braces will be coming off in September! He only has a couple more appointments.
Chris buried himself in the dining room (which is also doubling up as Mum's bedroom!) and we didn't see much of him for the rest of the day.
I rang Irene to ask about the swelling under my arm and the dressings. She as always was very patient with me, telling me that everything I'm experiencing is normal. She will drain the fluid in clinic on Tuesday and also sort the dressings out. She did say that if I was really uncomfortable, then to go in on Friday and she'd have a look. I'm sure I can manage until Tuesday though. She said that some ladies liken the feeling to having a rugby ball under their arm. I can relate to that!
That sorted, I then rang my GP surgery to see about having a sick certificate. The receptionist told me I'd need an appointment with the doctor. When I asked if my discharge summary had been scanned into my notes, she looked and said she'd get a doctor to ring me back rather than use an appointment.
Then it was time to go bite checking (gosh what a busy morning for me!!). The bite on Mum's leg definitely looked like it had grown a bit, so I took a photo so we could compare later! It wasn't causing her too much grief, so we decided to leave it and check later on.
A doctor from the surgery rang me back to discuss the sick cert. She was lovely. She told me she wasn't there permanently and that it might be a good idea to make contact with another permanent GP to develop continuity. We talked about my pain relief and the fact that I wouldn't be going back to work for a while yet. She told me to contact them if there was anything I needed and that they would be there for me as well as the specialists at the hospital.
School run over and cuppa drunk, Mum and I decided to go for a little walk before dinner. We just went round the block and took it slowly. There was a slight breeze and it was really nice to get out -it's been so hot. I looked stunning in a blue oversized shirt, brown trousers, black flat shoes and my sexy petrol blue compression stockings. Oh and no make-up! Anybody who knows me, knows I don't go anywhere without make-up. Can't be bothered though at this moment in time. I mean quite honestly, what difference is a bit of mascara and lippy going to make to the dazzling outfits I'm wearing??!!
Popped in to see Chris when we got home, only to find him creating his own blog. I think he found it really difficult to concentrate on work, so gave up in the end. If anyone is interested in reading what's going on his mind (I think he'd quite like to know too!) his blog can be found at http://christinsle.blogspot.com/ Anyone can leave comments and I'm sure he'd be grateful for them.
Finally in the evening, after dinner, the Dicolfenac started to work it's magic on my tummy! Ah well, will have to lay off that again for a bit. Hope my night's not too disturbed....!
Thursday, 1 July 2010
A trip out - Wednesday 30th June
Mum did her usual excursion to the bakery in Corsham, so we had cranberry and nut loaf toasted for breakfast - mmmm, lovely.
Checked Mum's red spot and decided it was looked a little bigger. She wondered if there was anyone who could have a quick look at it. My mind decided it was still mush, so wondered what to do. If I didn't, then I knew someone who would, so I texted a friend for advice. Catherine rang back whilst I was in the shower (usual palaver) and spoke to Mum, who was unaware of the communication. She suggested that it may be a good idea to get it looked at if we were worried. This entailed registering Mum as a temporary resident at the surgery where I work and getting her in to see one of the docs. An appointment was booked for midday, so Mum changed into a skirt and I made sure my comfy was secure in Frances!
I have to say that it was a bit overwhelming going into work so soon after my op, lots of caring, concerned faces.
The doc was brill with Mum (as usual - thank you!) and she appreciated his explanations and thorough examination. Although, she was mortified that I'd made an appointment - she was here to look after me not be a burden (as if!!). He thought the mark could be a bite but was eager we keep an eye on it, in case it got worse. Had she been staying longer he would've liked to review her on Monday. As she's going back on Friday, we'll watch for changes and she can see her own GP on Monday if necessary. Once he'd checked I was ok and had everything I needed, we left (again - thank you).
A trip to Sainsbury's followed where I sat in the car, pathetically tired! Lunch followed and then it was time for Mum to pick the boys up.
Fran felt a bit tight in the evening, so as per my usual routine, I whipped her off and changed into my pyjamas. I did notice, however, that there were a couple of areas of swelling near my underarm. Irene and Jenny had warned me that there probably would be a build up of fluid and that it would need to be drained off. Perhaps, I should ring Irene to check in the morning? No question, according to Mum, I was ringing Irene in the morning!
Was in pain and uncomfortable today, so have decided to try the Diclofenac again, alongside the Paracetamol and we'll see how we get on with that combination!
Checked Mum's red spot and decided it was looked a little bigger. She wondered if there was anyone who could have a quick look at it. My mind decided it was still mush, so wondered what to do. If I didn't, then I knew someone who would, so I texted a friend for advice. Catherine rang back whilst I was in the shower (usual palaver) and spoke to Mum, who was unaware of the communication. She suggested that it may be a good idea to get it looked at if we were worried. This entailed registering Mum as a temporary resident at the surgery where I work and getting her in to see one of the docs. An appointment was booked for midday, so Mum changed into a skirt and I made sure my comfy was secure in Frances!
I have to say that it was a bit overwhelming going into work so soon after my op, lots of caring, concerned faces.
The doc was brill with Mum (as usual - thank you!) and she appreciated his explanations and thorough examination. Although, she was mortified that I'd made an appointment - she was here to look after me not be a burden (as if!!). He thought the mark could be a bite but was eager we keep an eye on it, in case it got worse. Had she been staying longer he would've liked to review her on Monday. As she's going back on Friday, we'll watch for changes and she can see her own GP on Monday if necessary. Once he'd checked I was ok and had everything I needed, we left (again - thank you).
A trip to Sainsbury's followed where I sat in the car, pathetically tired! Lunch followed and then it was time for Mum to pick the boys up.
Fran felt a bit tight in the evening, so as per my usual routine, I whipped her off and changed into my pyjamas. I did notice, however, that there were a couple of areas of swelling near my underarm. Irene and Jenny had warned me that there probably would be a build up of fluid and that it would need to be drained off. Perhaps, I should ring Irene to check in the morning? No question, according to Mum, I was ringing Irene in the morning!
Was in pain and uncomfortable today, so have decided to try the Diclofenac again, alongside the Paracetamol and we'll see how we get on with that combination!
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