HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!!!

I wanted to take a minute out of this beautiful and sunny day to wish all of you a wonderful Mother's Day.  I am doing exactly what I want to be doing- working in the garden, listening to the birds and enjoying my family.  The past week has been an incredibly emotional one and I will write about that another time.  What I really want to share with you is a beautiful poem that my 12 year old presented to me this morning.  We know that Jake has writing talents but didn't know how well he could write poetry as well.  He read this poem to me this morning.  I think he did a wonderful job of expressing the emotions of not just him but all of us.

The Journey
by Jake

One normal November day,
While I was playing X box for as long as I could,
You called me up to talk to me,
I knew this couldn't be good.

Our family gathered at the table,
And out came the shocking words
Our family was changed forever,
When the words came out "cancer"

I screamed in my head,
"No", I thought "It can't be true"
But, yes it was and then
You told us what we had to do

A surgery, another
and chemotherapy,
After I heard all of this,
It started to scare me

All the sleepless nights
Scared as I could be,
I couldn't believe all this was happening,
to our family and me.

I'm sure you were as scared too
I'm sure that you were sad
But after all of this
I am sorta glad

This experience has made us stronger,
Inside and outside,
Our family has become closer,
together and forever.

Now today we stand,
stronger than we can be
Although one thing has changed
And that is your cute bald head!

My poem is almost complete
But one thing I didn't do
I didn't thank you for everything
That you always do,

Thanks for making supper,
thanks for cleaning my room,
Thank you for being there for me,
When I was in the blues.

I love you,
I always will
Until the very end
I love you mommy
I love you!

Happy Mothers Day and give your kids an extra hug today!

6 Down, 24 more to go!

I hope that everyone had a great Easter weekend.  Ours was great, filled with family, food and lots of chocolate- too much chocolate!
So I have now had 6 radiation treatments and 24 left to go.  It seems to be going okay right now.  All of my treatments are scheduled for the morning which is great because I get to be home to watch the kids play their after school  sports- although the weather has been so cold and rainy that I watch from the car!  I get to the hospital about 10 minutes before my scheduled appt.  Now that I bought a monthly parking pass and I have a permit that allows me to park in reserved oncology spots- parking is a breeze.  Good to know that I can claim all my parking fees on taxes- they sure are adding up!  I go straight into the radiation department.  They have 4 treatment rooms and each treatment room has a very large and extremely impressive radiationn machine.  They set me up in the same position everytime- so that takes awhile, but once they have the configurations all correct the radiation only takes about 5 minutes. It is painless, can't really feel anything, just large beeping and noises from the machine moving.  If they are not behind then I can be done in about 20 minutes.  Thank goodness I live close to the hospital- met some people who come in from Guelph and surrounding areas every day.
I feel okay, there is some tightening in the area that they radiated and it is starting to turn red.  This could stay the same or could get worse- time will tell.
I went for a walk today and saw my cancer posse friend Sue who I haven't seen in forever and she looks fantastic.  Her hair is grown in and it is so curly!  I can't wait.  So we got to talking about our recovery and how the side effects continue to affect us.  We both have the same achey legs and joints and our oncologists both told us it is from the chemo drugs and can take up to a year to go away.  It was good to talk to her!  You look great Sue and so glad you are done!!!
Tomorrow I am going out to lunch with 2 very good friends and I am excited!
I got some more news on the Run for the Cure that is taking place in October 2nd.  The team is registered and if you are interested in joining you can click on "Team Elena".  Remember that if you are in a different area you can run in your own city.  I will post what Lynn posted on her wall with info

What are you doing October 2nd?! Please join 'Team Elena' and run/walk for the cure. There are locations all over the country, so pick your location and register with our team. Team Elena is dedicated to Elena (my sister-in-law) who is currently beating cancer. The K-W Team Elena clan invites everyone to join our team: our goal is to have the biggest team in "run for the cure" history."
 Top 5 reasons sign up:
5) It's a fun day for the entire family
4) If you are a runner but have never yet done a run - this is a great first run to do.
3) If you are NOT a runner this is a great run to do as there are just as many ...walkers
2) ...It is so inspiring to see all the pink shirts (pink = survivor)
1) With 1:7 women getting this disease - chances are that either yourself, your wife, your mom, your sister or best friend will one day have breast cancer.

Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure:

www.runforthecure.com

 

 

Wishing you well!!!

"Just Beat It"

Hi all
I know it has been a very long time but I have been enjoying the few weeks that I had to focus on other things in my life that have been seriously neglected for a very long time.  I was able to go out for dinner with friends and spent time with my family enjoying basketball games and hockey games.  I went shopping with Jenna for a prom dress and Jake and I had a special day together doing whatever he wanted to do.  Sarah and I are also planning a special day together soon.  I got my hands dirty digging in the soil and trying to coax the spring flowers up- of course that was only one day that we got nice enough weather to do that.  As I sit in the front room I am amazed at the amount of snow swirling around outside- enough already!  Rick and I took a day and went to TO to walk around the Distillery District and out for a nice lunch.  It was really nice.  Yesterday we went to my brother and sister in law's house to visit with them.  I haven't seen them since the start of chemo and it was so nice to chill out on their coach and be truly spoiled by them.  I had the best dinner of homemade pizza, rapini and sausage and peppers.  My brother is the best chef- no question about that! Thanks Joe and Wendy!
Some of my friends and myself got together last week for what I thought was going to be a dinner and movie night.  Turns out they had something up their sleeve!  We had the nice chinese dinner and then when they said let's watch a movie they disappeared one at a time to reappear with funny hats on their heads.  Then they turn on the DVD player and we begin to watch not a movie but a video of them dancing to the song "BEAT IT" by Michael Jackson.  Of course they changed the words of the song and it was so hilarious!  I will try to post it for you as soon as I get my kids to show me how!  I love it. They all wore the silliest hats and the funniest costumes.   Then they read a wonderful book to me called "The Lemonade Club" by Patricia Polacco.  She is a well known children's author whose stories are inspirational, moving and thought provoking.  This book is about 2 best friends in Gr.5 who have a wonderful teacher who everyday tells them that when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.  The one girl is diagnosed with leukemia and at the same time the teacher falls ill as well.  As they each took a turn reading a page from the book and as the events unfolded I couldn't help but think that this author must have experienced cancer first hand because she was writing and expressing the emotions so accurately.  Only someone who has been through it or has helped a significant other would be able to depict those feelings and fears.  In fact, this story is about her daughter who was the best friend of the girl with leukemia and it is in fact a true story with a very happy ending.  Lots of tears shed that night but truly an amazing evening.  I am so blessed to have such amazing friends to sense and know that I needed a night of good company, reassurance, acknowledgement and courage to get me through the next hurdle- thank you!
Speaking of next hurdle- last week I started the drug tamoxifen which I will be taking for the next 5 years and then after that I go on a different drug for another 5 years.  This drug is an estrogen blocker and will further reduce the risk of the cancer coming back. 
I also begin radiation tomorrow.  I will be going 5 days a week for the next 6 weeks.  Seems like such a long time- 30 treatments in all.  I really can't wait till this is over.  I won't bother telling you about side effects right now. Don't really want to focus on that.  I am still waiting for my hair to start growing back- it has been a month since my last chemo session and there is no new growth- none.  I guess it will start soon so in the meantime I continue to wear hats and scarves.
Thats all for now!  I hope that everyone is doing well and finding some time to get outside and enjoy the nice weather when it makes an appearance.
Ciao!

Hello!

Me again checking in to let you all know that I am still doing well.  I feel good, yesterday was my 3rd week anniversary from chemo- and the best part was I didnt have to go back- now that was a reason to be really happy yesterday.  I did have a horrible dream the other night that I went for a check up and the next thing I knew they had hooked me up to a bag of meds.  In the dream I started screaming and told them to take it off!!!!  So, you think I might be a little traumatized from the whole thing- just un peu... So congrats to me, I made it through chemo!!!!
  I have lots to share.  First off I went for my initial radiation assessment last week.  I went in and discussed with Dr. Basrur and his nurse Tanya what my treatment plan will look like and the side effects I may or may not have. I won't share those yet because I would rather not jinx it,  needless to say though, I am really tired of side effects. Then I went and got a ct scan so they can determine exactly where the readitaion will be for me.  It was actually kind of cool and the technicians are amazing!  They also lined me up exactly and then gave me three small dotted tattoes- yep, permanent!
So this week I found out that my first radiation round will be April 18th and I will have it everyday (except weekends) from then until June 1st.  That is 6 weeks and 30 rounds.  I was really upset because I guess they decided that I needed one more week of treatment than originally planned and they call it a "boost".  This means that for 25 treatments they focus the radiation on a large area but for 5 treatments they treat the areas that were affected by the cancer.  I was upset because I had my heart set on being done by mid May.  I know its just another week but still it bugs me.  Mostly because I am so anxious to be done with this.
Next week I go see Dr. Campbell for a follow up.  At that time she will start me on the drug Tamoxifen which is an estrogen blocker drug.  I will be on that for 5 years.
Today I went to my gym!  I restarted my membership and it felt awesome!  I went to a class and even though I had to slow down and go at a different pace then everyone else, it was fantastic!  It felt so good to get my body moving.  I was very proud of myself that I finished the class. I plan on going everyday for the next week and a bit and then I will just have to take it one day at a time once radiation starts and see how it goes.  Felt so so good!
Met some friends for drinks the other night and went out for dinner with friends on Saturday.  The best thing about this 2 week hiatus is that I get to do "normal" things again that I have missed so much. 
Also enjoying watching my kids play their sports and spending time with them because I am not in bed early these days. 
LOVING THIS LITTLE BREAK!!!!!
take care all and talk to you soon. 

Here comes the Sun!

I have had a few people ask me if I have stopped blogging and I guess I have for awhile and the reason being I have been enjoying being "normal" again for awhile anyway.  I am feeling much better and am loving the sunshine- although it is still way too cold for me!!!!  Last chemo session went as expected and so relieved that it is over!  Really, words can't express how much better I feel knowing that it is behind me.  I have started going out more and the best was going to watch my daughter play in a tournament this weekend.  I was welcomed so warmly by all the parents and it was felt so good to sit on the benches and watch her tear up that basketball court! I also went prom dress shopping and looking at Jenna with these dresses on made me cry- I realized how much I missed out on and how good it feels to be able to do these things with them again without feeling yucky or so tired.  So for the next few weeks I will enjoy myself and celebrate that I have fought hard to overcome one more part of this journey.
I go to see Dr. Basrur tomorrow.  He is my radiation oncologist and I met him once before.  A wonderful man! I go and talk to him about our plan for the next part of treatment.  In preparation for radiation I will have a cat scan to determine and chart out where  the radiation will focus and then I get tattoed.  Yep, I get permanently tattoed with little dots outlining the area that they will be radiating!  I am nervous but not as nervous as I was with chemo.  I also go back to see Dr. Campbell in a few weeks and that is when I go on Tamoxifen.  It is an estrogen blocker drug.  I will be on it for the next 5 years.   I will have more information on that as well when I go back to see her.
I am doing well right now and I can't wait to get outside and get my hands in the dirt.  I have so many plans for the backyard- poor Rick, he hates yard work but this is the season that we do everything we have put off doing for so long- at least that is my plan!  Would love some more flower gardens in the back! But first we need to get rid of all the snow!
Take care everyone, will keep you updated as soon as I have more info to share. 

LAST ONE GOOD TO GO!

Hello
I know its been awhile but I really had no news to share- spent the past week catching up with some friends that I haven't seen in a long time and it was so nice, even if it was only for a short little bit.  We even went to out friend's house last night and I can't remember the last time Rick and I went out with friends. Thanks for hosting Maryanna and Tim!  My brother's Joe and Frank popped in for a bit on Sunday- Frank and Anne had just returned from Las Vegas and stopped at Joe's house and they came out for a visit.  It was great seeing them again, even if only for a quick visit!
Today is a very important day- Happy Birthday to my mom and to my niece Lola and to Tim!!!! I wish all of them the best and I am really hoping to get to Sudbury soon so I can give my mom a big hug and kiss in person!
So today I went to the hospital for my usual pre chemo blood work and follow up with my oncologist.  She is away enjoying the March Break so I met Dr. Callifaretti, who is another oncologist and just as great!  I am good to go for chemo tomorrow and it is my last round! I am so glad that it's a go and I am anxious to have this week over with so I can begin to heal and start some normalcy in my life again.  She extended my anti nausea drugs for an extra 2 days and I am keeping my fingers crossed that that will do the trick and lessen the effects of the impending weekend.  With each round it seems that Friday, Saturday and Sunday are by far the worst days but it starts and lasts a little bit longer each time.  She also put me back on the medicine for the mouth infection- that just won't go away- so frustrating!!!!!! In 3 weeks I can start taking probiotics again and I know that will help but for now I suck it up and take drugs that just hold it off- but they give me a wicked sore stomach and make the insides of my mouth feel like sandpaper! I had some questions for her about radiation- I guess in 2 weeks I will get a call from the radiation oncologist for my initial appt and then I start 2 weeks after that.  I will be going 5 days a week for 5 weeks.  I also asked some other questions- I still can't have a pedicure- not for another 6 weeks- my poor feet have really taken a beating ! Still can't go to the dentist- but I can go in the hot tub as long as it is clean and santitary- no worries there, it has been waiting for me all winter long- so Rick has 2 weeks to get that tub up and ready and then I am JUMPING IN!!!  I also will be following up with Dr. Campbell in 4 weeks to start me on tamoxifen and will be on that every day for the next 5 years.  I also want to talk to her about getting some tests done and meeting with a geneticist- anything we can do to reduce the chances of recurrence!
When I went to get the dreaded steroids and other necessary drugs from the pharmacy the other day the pharmacist congratulated me and had a huge smile on her face! I am nervous because you just never know how the meds affect you from one session to the next but in the same sense I am relieved because I can keep telling myself "I am done, I am done"- I hope that will help- the other times I just couldn't see myself going through it again but this time it's different, right?  But I did it and I am very proud of myself.  One woman at the gym who just finished her radiation told me to take pictures and then she said she wished she had her first time around (she was first diagnosed 2 years ago and rediagnosed this past summer) but she made sure to do it this time because we should be very proud of ourselves and that we are very brave and courageous! 
Saw my cancer posse friend Sue at the gym and she looks great!!! Congrats on finishing your radiation Sue and you look beautiful- give me a week and we are definitely getting together!
Well, gotta go- our van broke down yesterday and it is ready for pick up so I have to go get it.  $400.00 and it isn't finished yet- wonder if its worth keeping it on the road- its for Jenna but it is starting to cost us a small fortune!
Ciao!

A Visit

I can't believe how quickly this week has flown.  I am very happy about that because even though I am enjoying feeling good and getting out for lots of walks and fresh air and sunshine, I am ready to have my last chemo session on the 16th and the sooner it gets here the sooner the recovery starts and finishes!
Yesterday, my sister in law that lives in North Bay popped in on her way home from a conference in London.  I haven't seen Anne since the summer and it was so nice to have some chat time with her.  Anne is by far the best baker ever!  Her butter tarts are unbelievably delicious- we all fight for them when she brings them to special occasions and they are gone in seconds!  Her pies are scrumptious.  But the piece de resistance- her one thing that she can make like no other?  She makes this Finnish sweet bread called "bulah bread" (I am sure I spelled it wrong but that's how you pronounce it) and we all wait in anticipation to see if Anne brings this incredible, sweet, buttery and creamy bread to our gatherings!  It really is like Christmas.  Well, secretly I hoped that Anne would have some bread with her, but I didn't ask for any because I know how much work it is to make- and that would be rude!  So after giving her a big hug she pulls out of her bag not one loaf but 2!!!!! And 2 huge bags of her cinammon buns too!  Yippee, I was literally dancing in the kitchen!!! Of course, one whole bag of buns are already gone- I am not the only one in my family that loves them!!! So I told everyone to keep their hands off of the bread- I played the cancer card- selfish isn't it??? I don't care, I love it that much.  Well, I might share it a little with them.
I had a great time with Anne, getting caught up on life in North Bay.  Her and my brother became empty nesters this year as their last boy went away to University and they seem to be enjoying it.  They are on their way to Las Vegas as I write this for a week.  She tells me they aren't the gambling kind and will spend most of their time touring the nature attractions- hmmmmm.....
Thanks for popping by Anne, it was great seeing you again!!!
Other than that, not much going on over here.  The weather is starting to get a bit warmer but still too cold for me.  I am getting Spring Fever like crazy.  There is a garden show in Stratford this weekend and it think it might be nice to go spend some time looking at flowers and gardens and outdoor stuff- can't wait to get my hands in the dirt again!
Ciao for now!

Round 3 Recap; a feel good story and some funny stuff too!

Round 3 is done.  It was a very long day yesterday at the hospital, extra busy because Monday was a holiday and normally I would have all the pre blood work and appt with my MO on that day but everything happened yesterday.  To say that I was DREADING yesterday would be an understatement,but between "my sister from another mother!" sharing the day with me and a very good and reassuring discussion with Dr. Campbell and my nurse Agnes, I felt less anxious as the day progressed and the chemo treatment itself went well except for the poor nurse who somehow got some of that poison on her hands- I bet she was hoping she had put her gloves on!
I should preface what I am going to write about by telling you that Round 2 was very rough for me.  It was an extreme emotional roller coaster, lots of weeping (sometimes over the silliest things), mood swings, mixed with extreme fatigue, general malaise and some side effects that had me really concerned.  So I found myself cocooning and becoming an introvert, something that is not really me but I know now that is what I needed to get me through this and make sure that I could be fully there for the kids when they got home.  Even though I don't think I am doing a great job of that either but we keep talking about it and reassuring them that this is temporary and it is the crazy meds doing this to me!  So I had alot of questions for my MO and lots to talk about!
Ok, here we go.  My "sis" picked me up at 9:30 and off we went to blood work first then down to the cafeteria because we had some time till my MO appt.  It was so great catching up on what's been going on in her world.  I did alot of listening because my world is pretty small right now and it feels good to listen to what's going on in the outside world.  She kept me entertained all day-except I think I drove her nuts because my "chemo brain" (yes it is actually a side effect that causes word retrieval, memory issues, a short attention span and difficulty following conversations) kept making me ask her to repeat parts of her stories so I could follow- but then again maybe it's just because she was being very long winded and really can talk alot!!!! :)
I started off the day wearing a beautiful knit hat that my sister in law made for me but I took it off because it was so hot, so even though I didn't really take notice of the fact that I was walking around bald a woman in the waiting room did.  She came up to me and told me that she thinks that I am really brave for feeling totally comfortable not wearing a wig, hat or a scarf.  She could never bring herself to do that because she always feels so self conscious and she congratulated me.  Funny, I don't see myself as being brave but more of just "why hide it?" In my mind hiding it is keeping the "cancer is a bad word" mentality.  I want to take the monster out of it for my kids and let them know that this is a part of the journey and it will grow back and why hide it?  But I also understand how some people see it differently because there is one thing I learned, each person I have met have are dealing  with this however they need to to get them through this. She is also battling breast cancer, Stage 3 and metastasized.  So I thanked her and told her that I feel comfortable not wearing a wig for now.  I may change my mind at some point but for now I wear funky hats and have some scarves ready for the nice weather.  I ran into her again after my MO appt and she came up and gave me a hug and we wished each other luck. She also told me that maybe she might try going bald for awhile and see if it sits well with her.  I hope that I see her again, I would like to ask her to be a part of our cancer posse, she was there by herself and that had to have been hard on her.
Funny story #1
I shared with her that I hadn't tried my Rick on for wig and so on Sunday he asked to see it.  So as I put it on I decided to brush it to try to take the poofy out of it and the brush got caught in the wig and both brush and wig went flying across the room! We had a good laugh over that and I thought, one big wind and that thing is going to fly off my head!!!

Then they called me for my appt with Dr.Campbell and Agnes and she first told me my blood work was good to go and chemo will happen.  Then, with me crying like a baby I shared with her the events of the past 3 weeks and  we had a very frank discussion about all of  my side effects.  She gave me new meds for my mouth infection that has now gone systemic.  The problem is that I have no good flora left in my body and I can't take any kind of probiotics because they don't want any live bacteria in me- so  I am on a 12 day pill prescription that I am really hoping does the trick.  Then we talked about my mood swings and the weeping and she said to me that the "horrific" drugs that I am taking are robbing me of estrogen and estrogen is our feel good hormone so it's no wonder that I am feeling that way and it will get better eventually but it will take some time. I was glad to hear that because I am not going crazy, crazy but chemo crazy and I am going to hang on to that when it hits again.  She also said something very interesting about her perspective on cancer treatments and said that in 30 years doctors are going to look back on how we treated cancer now and say how barbaric the treatment was. Just like they are looking back now at the treatments from as little as 15 years ago.  She fully believes that there will be a vaccine by then that will prevent all this- isn't that amazing, not soon enough for me but good news for the kids.  We also talked about what will happen after radiation with other options for me to bring down the percentages for me but we agreed that we can't worry about that right now, first things first.
Funny story #2
So then I shared with her about my chemo brain and I shared this story.  Rick was going to go grocery shopping so I made a list and off he went.  When he came home he reread my list to me and scattered throughout the list I had written down "carrots" at least 5 times.  We had a good laugh and I said to him "well I hope with all those reminders you actually got them"- because he does tend to miss things on the list! So the next day I go to get the carrots from the fridge and they weren't there!  He didn't buy them.  Carolyn and Agnes had a great laugh over that but the best part is when I got home Rick was checking the answering machine and there was a message from "Carolyn Campbell reminding Rick to make sure that on the way home he picks up some carrots for me because she knows I wrote it down on the list several times so I would really like some carrot!" Oh my God so funny, Rick had the funniest look on his face, shook his head and said "women." Do I not have the best doctor? Who else would take the time out of her day to make us smile!!!
Okay, I am done.  I need to eat something and then go rest before the nurse comes to inject me with the magic potion that is going to build up my white blood cells.  Not sure how the week will go with me but will try to post if I can.
Ciao for now

Happy Family Day!

I hope that all of you are having a great family day!
Just wanted to let you all know that tomorrow is chemo day for me and Round 3.  I have to be at the hospital for 10:00 for blood tests and then an appt with my MO after to see if I am okay to go ahead and if so then chemo will start at 1:00.
I am nervous because I just never know what to expect but I am also just so anxious to get this over with that I am glad the day has arrived. 
Can you please send some extra prayers and thoughts our way for tomorrow and the week following?  Thank you so much!
FORZA!

Gorgeous Day!

Hi all
Isn't the weather wonderful.  I know it's just teasing us but it sure felt good yesterday being outside and
feeling Spring in the air.  It looks like the sun is trying to peek out so I will be sure to get outside again today.  It feels good after being cooped up all winter long.
I really don't have much going on right now, this is my "good week" and spending alot of time getting myself mentally and physically ready for next Tuesday (round 3).  There have been some side effects that I have been dealing with but nothing too major- knocking on wood!
My big brother popped in yesterday on his way home to Barrie from London.  It was a nice surprise and great to see him.  I haven't seen him since Christmas so he was a little taken aback to see my new bald look but he gave me a big hug and kiss and told me I looked great!  Nice to see you again Setts!
My little man Jake is off to the "ME TO WE" gathering at the KW Aud today.  He is sooo excited- there are going to be some great speakers there- Craig Kielburger, Jesse Jackson Sr., Al Gore and The Bare Naked Ladies will be there as well! He has been talking about this non stop- he told me that he wants to make a difference in the world- in my opinion, he already has!!! 
Looking forward to a good  work out at UW today- I went on Tuesday and they changed my program to focus more on strength because I have been doing the treadmill at home when I can.  I can't do it all time but I figure even a little bit is helping me.  Also looking forward to meeting up with my fellow Cancer Posse friend Sue for a tea and a talk this afternoon.  Can't wait to hear all about radiation and getting to know her a little bit better.  Not sure if I mentioned this or not but turns out we live in the same neighbourhood. Small world isn't it?
Have a great day everyone, enjoy the break in the cold weather!

Happy Birthday Jake!!!

Today my baby turns 12!!! So hard to believe that it has been 12 years already.  He is having a friend over for the day and staying for supper and celebrations.  Then he and I are going to watch a movie together.  It is a Jake and Mom day.  Rick and Sarah are in Chatham at a basketball tournament and Jenna is busy with her very social life.  I am looking forward to baking some cupcakes and maybe a trip to Chapter's if we feel like it.
I am moving into my 3rd week of the second round and hopefully everything stays the way it is now.  I managed a few work outs this week and even went shopping!  Rick says I am getting dangerous because when I feel better I want to go out and do some retail therapy.  I had no idea we had a Bed, Bath and Beyond in our area so I was pleasantly surprised and went to check it out!  Now I am thinking I would like to repaint our bedroom once treatment is done- I have developed an aversion to the colour of my walls right now and hating the comforter (at least that is what I am telling Rick)- especially after spending so much time staring at them!  Then I started thinking that I can't just do the bedroom, would have to do the ensuite as well and of course that means a new floor, new vanity, mirror.... Okay, I think Rick might have a problem with that! Hmmm, maybe I will go to Loew's today- just to check it out!

Hello!

It has been a week exactly since my second chemo treatment and I know that some of you were worried because I haven't been posting so I just wanted to let you all know that I am doing ok and feel better today than yesterday and hope that this means everyday will get better.  This time I have had a bit of a different reaction the first week.  I am exhausted and much more nautious. Lots of food aversions as well but always hungry so that makes it a little tricky.  Mashed and boiled potatoes seem to be going down well.  The good news is there was not as much bone pain as the first time so I hope that means that is behind me for now!
So today I feel a bit better so I think I might get dressed and get out. I hear it's really cold out there so I will need to bundle up so my little head doesn't get cold!!!
A huge thank you to Cheryl for coming with me to chemo day. Having you all to myself for the whole day was such a treasure.  Even though it was under tough circumstances it was so great catching up with all the things going on in your world and you getting to understand and see what my world is all about for now.  Thanks for holding my hand, for getting me warm blankets and ice chips, for listening to me and for taking such good care of me- I felt so loved.   I realized how much I miss our daily chats and it felt great!
Thanks to everyone for sending food and well wishes our way-thank you to Walter who snowblowed our driveway so many times this past week- that snow is crazy!  We are so blessed to have so many compassionate people helping to make the burden a little easier for all of us- I know I have said it over and over but there are no words strong enough to explain our gratitude.  THANK YOU!

Round Two is Good to Go!

So today my friend Amy and I went up to the hospital for my pre chemo visit.  First I had some blood tests done to determine if my red blood cells and white were at a good level so they could blast them again and a few other things that they check for.  After that we had an hour to kill so we went to Vincenzo's.  It felt great going out to eat and getting caught up with Amy.  We went back to the hospital and waited in the waiting room for awhile.  Took Amy on a little tour of the very nicely set up chemo suite.  Agnes, my nurse called me in and after talking about my hair for awhile she asks  me if I have been touching my face and if my hands are dirty.  I look in the mirror and my face is covered in black splotches.  She is laughing her head off as I am wiping my face! So I said to her "you know I am not ambarassed about the bald head but a dirty face???? and I went out for lunch???" No idea where the dirt came from.  Amy swears she didn't notice it, we think it might be my gloves because I was wiping tears off my face (from the cold).  I laughed so hard and then she goes and gets the doctor and I can hear them laughing about it in the hallway. 
So when that moment passed she told me that my blood tests look good.  The only strange thing was that my potassium levels are elevated so they want me to get another blood test tomorrow before chemo- but I am good to go.  She told me that the rash on my hands is probably a reaction to the meds and I will have to keep an eye on it and hope it doesn't get worse. The only way to lessen that would be to reduce the amount of meds and she doesn't want to do that.  She also told me that I should not be suffering in pain from the bone aches and from the Neulasta drug so she gave me a non narcotic pain killer that I take for 7 days starting Wednesday- hope it works because that really sucked.  I don't do well on Codeine which is why I wouldn't take anything but so glad to know there is another option for me.
All in all, she said that I am good to go and I will be halfway done! 
So tomorrow at 12:20 I begin round two.
Wish me luck!
Thanks so much Amy for coming with me today, you made it fun!!! 
I hear there is a snow storm coming, please wait till I get to the hospital!

The Punk Rock Me!

When I was in University I went through a punk rock phase- some of you might remember that!  I did the boy George look really well, half my head shaved very short the other long and a tail! 
Yesterday I decided that I didn't want to spend the next week chasing my hair around the house or tugging at it- bald patches were starting at the front.  So, I called my fantastic hair dresser at Shear Heaven and she took me right away.  As Ali began the buzzing I closed my eyes and just let her talk to me and do her magic on me.  She kept telling me that I can pull this look off- apparently, I have a nice shaped head- who knew????
When I looked in the mirror, first I was shocked at all the grey hair that she has been doing an amazing job of covering up with blonde and then I thought of my punk rock days.  My sister in law Annette thinks I should recreate that look from way back when-hmmmm?
I jokingly told the kids I was going to buy a leather harley davidson skull cap and do the hot biker mamma look.  In Jenna's words (once she closed her jaw) "that's a bit much don't you think?"
Who knew I would have so many looks to choose from?
Anyway, thank you Shear Heaven once again for your kindness, compassion and compliments!!!
Sarah took some pics of me, so this is me, for now.
So now I am lovingly known as "baldy" from my family and Maryanna too who called me that on the phone last night- it is what it is!!!

Bring out the Hats!

So this morning when I woke up Rick tugged on my hair as he has been doing for the past 13 days but today instead of saying "nope, nothing" he said "woah... look at that" and he had a mitt full of hair in his hand.  I was a little shocked and then did some pulling myself.  Yep, it started.
I think part of me was expecting that I would just wake up bald, would probably be alot easier and cleaner that way- but that is not how it happens.  So I grabbed a garbage bag and started tugging, I can't believe how quickly it is falling out.  Like pine needles on a Christmas tree. It is not a good idea to try to pull it out in the shower because it was very difficult trying to clean out the shower afterwards.  So I put on a little cotton cap that I got from the Look Good, Feel Better program and I went on with my day.  Except that every so often I would go to the bathroom and start tugging.
It's funny how much I look like my dad  and my brother Joe right now.  I have the receding hairline just like them and unfortunately my nose looks alot bigger! We all have the misfortune of inheriting my dad's rather large and crooked Roman nose!  The kids noticed that I look like them right away!  They seem to be okay with the whole losing the hair thing.  It is what it is.

Surprisingly, after the initial upset and cry I feel okay.  I knew it was coming and I guess if I put it in perspective, it will grow back and if it means the medicine is working, then so be it.  I am not happy about it (who would be?)but I have accepted  it and decided that I am just going to rock this look the best that I can.  And after deciding that, I did what I do best- I went shopping!  I bought some very cute hats, some funky scarves and a beautiful green silk scarf for my head. And some pretty earrings too now that my ears are there for all to see! Nothing like retail therapy to make a woman feel better!  I have replaced my shoe- aholic tendencies with scarves and hats-I didn't even go near the shoes!

I wonder what  I will look like tomorrow morning???

A Beautiful Quilt!

A few weeks ago I ran into an old friend Ros.  I haven't seen her in awhile.  She was a huge part of our lives for a long time as she babysat both Jake and Sarah for many, many years. She was a great sitter and we were very grateful. We got to talking and I shared my news with her.  Yesterday, she delivered the most beautiful quilt lovingly made by her mother and other women that belong to the Catholic Women's League of St. Mary's church in Owen Sound. They also belong to a group called "Prayers and Squares, the Prayer Quilt Ministry".  They make quilts for people who are going through a difficult time of one kind or another to comfort them.  As they make the quilt and tie on the knots, they pray, and then other people can continue to put knots in the quilt.  I was absolutely stunned. What a powerful gift!  It is so beautiful and the colours match perfectly with our house and so cozy!!!!  Once again, I am  filled with such emotion as we continue to be blessed by the kindness and compassion of others.  Thank you Ros for this incredible gesture and to your mom and the other women, what a wonderful thing they do by reaching out to others.  When I am through with treatment and this is behind us, the prayer quilt will hold a very special place in our home so that we can remember your kindness always. Wow!
On Friday, I went to UW for the WellFit program- thanks Sue for pointing me in the right direction.  It is an exercise program specifically designed for cancer treatment patients.  I was a little nervous going because after not being able to exercise for 4 months and having to put my gym membership on hold, I was pretty certain that they were going to tell me that I was completely out of shape- but they didn't!  So, now that I have had an assessment done, they set up a program that meets my needs and I start on Tuesday, going 2 times a week for 12 weeks.  It focusses on cardio and strength.  I am excited to start sweating again!

Have I told you about Peggy?  I met Peggy when I went to the "Look Good, Feel Better" workshop at the hospital.  I sat down beside her and her friend Bryn started talking to me.  I liked them right from the start and then when we found out we were all primary teachers- well now we are bonded for life!  I almost didn't go that day because I had just found out that morning that I needed chemo, so I was pretty upset.  Am I ever glad that I changed my mind.  Peggy has dark short hair with a cute wave going on.  When I looked away and then looked back she had replaced her hair with a hot pink bandana!!! I had no idea she was wearing a wig- they look that real!  I just did not see myself getting a wig until I looked at Peggy and  I thought "wow, maybe I will get one- I couldn't even tell!"  You look great both ways Peggy!!! Thanks for sitting beside me!
So now Peggy, Bryn and I email each other.  She just finished her 3rd round of chemo- she reacted so badly to the first drug she was on, but now we are keeping our fingers crossed that they got it right.  We are hoping to get together for a coffee (well, not coffee because neither one of us can stand the taste of coffee right now).  I will have to introduce her to Sue so we can all share stories and help each other through.  It makes a real difference when you are able to connect with people who are going or have gone through this.  A great book I am reading called "Crazy, Sexy Cancer Tips" by Kris Carr talks about the importance of creating a "Cancer Posse" and I think that is really important too.  I know that having Sue and my cousin Giovanna, Tiziana,my mother in law and now Peggy to talk to and share tips, be encouraged  and to trade valuable tricks of the trade is really helping.  So if you are reading this blog and you are also fighting this dragon then I would highly recommend getting your own posse- or joining ours- you are more than welcome!  I would also recommend that book, fabulous and funny!

Yesterday I went for coffee with my friend Paula- it was great to get out and have a laugh with a friend. She always has great stories to share and even brought pictures along to show!  It was nice seeing you again.  I guess we don't have to worry about being called sisters anymore now that our hair is soooo different.  I am looking forward to spending some time with my amazing friend Maryanna tomorrow!

Today I decided to go on the treadmill.  It felt great, I blasted my Ipod (I see hearing aids in my future) and I away I went- I even managed to run for a bit (very short bit).  It felt incredible to sweat and get those muscles moving again.  I cooled down singing along to my favourite song "Let It Be" - well, I must have been howling because Rick and Jake came running down the stairs to ask me if I was okay- they thought I was screaming.  So I may not be the best singer but boy did it feel good letting loose.  I could feel the endorphins helping join the fight to kill those nasty bad red blood cells!!!

Thank you to all of you who have helped us out the past few weeks (and many before that as well) with meals for us.  Words can not express how grateful we are.  We are blessed.

Mr. Sandman- where are you?

Today was a good day, and as I have learned very quickly- I embraced it!  I was given a book by Jenna's high school hockey coach a few weeks back that helped her through this and is now helping me.  It is called "Just Get Me Through This!"- that is a perfect name for a book because that is exactly how I feel!  In it she shares some tips to help you get through chemo and one of them is when you are feeling good to "get up, get dressed and get out" so that is what I did.
This morning I decided to get out so I went to go  get a few groceries.  Those of you who know me know that I am a bit of a germ freak and this has just graduated me to full fledged germ-a-phobe!  So, I was worried about going out so I protected myself very well.  I had on a big hat, scarf wrapped around my mouth and gloves on!!!  You should have seen the looks I was getting- it was actually quite funny!  A bit over the top? Maybe, but I did enjoy getting out- even if it was for a quick trip to the grocery store. Never in a million years would I have ever considered the thought of grocery shopping as exciting- but it was :)
So the meds are throwing my whole system out of whack- I can't sleep!  I lie awake for hours with my mind just whirring.  Not thinking about anything major or even worrying really- my brain won't shut off- it insists on having conversations with me through the whole night. Last night I contemplated getting up to make the kids lunches, but that passed very quickly, so I just lay there.  I did learn that Rick likes to sleep with a hoodie up around his head.  I never noticed that before.  I am hoping this passes soon because I can't nap either so by 7 at night I am pretty tired.  Maybe tonight I will watch tv- I wonder if there are any good shows on in the middle of the night? 
Did I mention that my dad has been in the hospital for the past few weeks?  He had a blood clot in his leg that erupted and they had to do some major surgery.  There have been some complications and they are waiting to see what to do next.  He is 82 years old. It has been a really difficult time for them because they are so far away and I have not been able to see them at all. I am thankful that my brother Franco lives close enough that he can check in on them and keep us all posted- thanks Frank, I love you ! And to my brother Settimio for going to spend the weekend with mom and taking good care of her- love you too! It has been very stressful on my mom who worries about me way too much.  I keep telling her not to worry, that I have an amazing group of friends, relatives, doctors and volunteers supporting me and it brings her comfort.  We would appreciate it if you could remember my parents in your prayers.
Jenna goes to University next year and she got her first offer tonight!  We were so excited!  It is not her first choice but we were thrilled just the same. We are keeping our fingers crossed that she hears soon from the one that counts in her books!  Hard to believe that my little baby is moving out- when she was about 6 years old she told me that she "would never, never, never leave you mommy- and when I get married he will come live with us" and I said to her that someday she might change her mind but I hoped she wouldn't.  That will be very hard saying good bye to the first born!
Thanks for the positive feedback on the Run for the Cure- looks like there will be  a Team Elena in Sudbury- thanks Fio and Ang!  And my staff is joining me- I am so lucky :)
Ciao for now!

Will you Run with Me?

I know it's been a week since my last post and I have been thinking about what to focus on and just wasn't sure.  I could focus on the incredibly hard week I have had, but I really didn't want to.  I could talk about the fact that I am never sure which part of my body is going to feel like it is stabbing me from the inside as if to say "what the hell are you doing to me?" Yeh, well, I could say the same thing!  So, I didn't want to focus on any of that because I didn't want to waste my energy so I waited until I felt better. 
Today, I feel better!  I even got dressed in real clothes and went out for a walk.  The cold felt awesome on my face, kind of slapped me back into the land of living.  The tylenol is finally helping with the pain and I am able to eat again, so today is a good day.
So here is what I would like to talk about today- yesterday I opened an email from my sister in law Lynn who told me that she is going to register us for "The Run for the Cure" on October 2nd.  It is a nationwide event and she is putting in a team called "Team Elena."  This is what she said;

"I have been thinking a lot about the Run for the Cure. That will be your day to shine. My plan is to have the biggest team in 'Run for the Cure' history. I have already started recruiting people. Which means there will be people part of your team that you may not know but will be running for you anyway. This is a nation wide event so we will get the word out to all your friends/family and their friends and family all over the country. You could even get Italy involved and we could be the first International team ever.  Was thinking "TEAM ELENA" but will use what ever name you choose.  just wanted to let you know that Oct 2nd will be your special day. A very very well deserved day. "

Well that was a wonderful email, just what I needed - some motivation to get me through the next while.  There is absolutely no pressure but if you are interested, I am getting the word out early. Wouldn't that be great if we really did make it the biggest team in history.  To all my friends and relatives from Montreal, Nova Scotia, Barrie, Muskoka, Toronto, Oakville, Burlington, North Bay, Sudbury, the States, Italy and even Malaysia (I have a follower there- dont know who it is as only the country shows up but I hope you are enjoying the blog!) my question is "Will you run with me?"
But you won't be running just for me, you will be running for someone you probably know that has been down this road or someone in the future that will have to take this darn journey.  Did you know that the GRRCC sees 300 patients a day and my radiation oncologist told me that he sees 10 new breast cancer patients a week??? That is absolutely crazy.
I am not sure how all the logistics work but I will keep you posted.

I found this video on you tube a few days before my first chemo.  I had forgotten that Melissa Etheridge wrote this song and I guess I never really listened to it before.  Talk about a change in perspective.  I am posting it for you to watch if you want. There are several versions on you tube- I really like one that has photos of people running but it also has photos of women with their scars and didn't feel comfortable putting that up on the blog so you can check out the others if you like- just search Melissa Etheridge- I Run for Life.   Still a very powerful video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LgiwrvEX8wY

ONE DOWN!

So the steroids I am taking are making me a little jittery (pretty sure I mentioned that before) so I am going to write a little while I feel up to it.
Yesterday went well considering it was an extremely stressful day.  When Rick and I got to the Hospital I registered but then sat in the wrong waiting room so the nurse had to come find me- silly I know but with all my nerves frazzled I got a little freaked out and then when she asked about the meds I took that morning she looked at me funny and told me I took too many!!! Ok, that set me in panic mode.  Good thing it was the anti nausea pills I took too much of and not the steroids or I would be just flying.  So after she calmed me down and reassured me that everything was going to be okay we got started.  Her name was Debbie by the way and I think I got the best nurse there- although I am beginning to see that they are all amazing and so compassionate.  So she stayed by my side and made sure I was okay through the entire treatment which took about 4 hours to complete.  They ran 2 separate meds, the first one they had to run really slowly because it has a higher risk of people reacting to it (thus the steroids).  I seemed to be doing okay with that one and then the other one was ran after that.  I sucked on ice chips the whole time because there is a theory that doing that reduces the risk of nasty mouth sores- hope it works- that and rinsing with baking soda and water 5 times a day!
Rick was a real trooper, running to get me warm blankets and ice chips constantly- the nurse called him my little "gopher"- I just am a lucky girl to have him. 
Warm blankets really are the best thing, in fact I am snuggled up in the one Sue gave me in my chemo bag right now!  I did wear it Sue and I shared the wonderful story to all who would listen about what a great thing you did for me- I could feel the good vibes coming off of it :)
So it wasnt so bad after the initial freak out and they managed to find a vein that would co operate.  I  listened to my Ipod, chatted with the neighbours and got to know the nurses and the volunteers.  I tried to text but that's hard to do when one hand is not available.
Today the nurse came to give me my Neulasta shot- the pharmacist at the hospital who was giving me the low down of all the meds I need to take told me I am a lucky girl to be getting this.  I guess not everyone is covered for this injection because it costs $3000 for one injection! Thank goodness for Insurance coverage.  Neulasta is a white blood cell regenerator- so as I type, it is making its way into everyone of my bones and kicking the crap out of my bone marrow forcing it to make more white blood cells.  In about a week my white blood cells drop drastically and this injection will ensure that I have enough in my system to keep some immunity.  Science really is amazing! I am supposed to feel like I have been hit by a Mack truck by tomorrow- apparently tomorrow is the magic day to see how I feel.  It's when my body wakes up and takes notice of what has been happening.
I got an email today from an old friend who moved to Nova Scotia, so glad to hear from you Jack :)
Thank you so much to everyone for their continued support, prayers, emails , facebook messages and now bbm's too!

Nerves and I Am Blessed

Tomorrow is my first treatment of Chemo and I have been nervous about it all week but today I have the jitters- I am pretty sure it is the steroids that I had to take today and for the next 2 days.  Had a very busy day preparing and cleaning. 
I know that I have said over and over again how truly blessed I am and how overwhelmed (not sure if that's the right word, but its a good overwhelmed) by the generosity, kindness, compassion and love that keeps coming my way in so many different forms and gestures.  Lots of emails and well wishes and phone calls and I appreciate all of them, I really do.
Tonight my friend Amy and her daughter Liz popped in - they gave me the cutest set of casual clothes that I can wear tomorrow from "PINK"- so kind of you to be thinking about me it is exactly what I need- they are washed and folded and are on my bed waiting for tomorrow- I will put them on as soon as I get home from the hospital so I have very comfy and cute clothes to wear.! You are an amazing family!Thanks Amy, Walter, Chrissy, Meagan and Liz- I really do love them!  You guys are spoiling me and I am blessed to have you right next door to me!
Do you remember me telling you about my new and wonderful friend Sue? I met Sue at the prosthetic store and she also has (or should I say 'had') cancer and just recently had surgery herself.  She is done with her chemo (congratulations!) and so after Amy left the doorbell rang and there was Sue!!! She brought me her "chemo bag" with a wonderful fleece blanket and a stuffed bear and some tea inside of it, all with pink ribbon symbols on it.  Sue, I know how much that bag and its contents brought you great comfort and it will do the same for me.  Just knowing that someone else has been through this and has done so well will give me strength to get me through this.  Your hair looks awesome by the way and after you left the kids were all smiling and kept saying how nice that was of you - very true!
I also learned how to Skype tonight- talked to my friend Cheryl so she could see my new haircut!
Rick got me a blackberry so I can keep in touch with people from the hospital if I feel up to it- but I need to remember to bring my eyeglasses, I can't see the letters and the keypad is so small that my stubby thumbs keep messing up the letters :)
thanks to all of you for your prayers, thoughts, gestures and just for being you- I am really incredibly blessed and incredibly fortunate to have such an amazing circle of friends.

ps- I am not sure how the next few weeks will unfold so I think the best way is to communicate via email, it is something I can do easily enough.  I may not be up to taking phone calls but it is truly one day at a time right now.  A special thanks to my amazing friend Maryanna.  Maryanna is my Italian friend who has been with me every step of the way, from bringing me her wonderful homemade soup to bringing me a comfy white housecoat which has come in so handy!  I thank God that our girls reconnected on the soccer field 5 years ago after being friends in Kindergarten.  Our friendship was meant to be. Ti amo! Will be thinking of all of you and gaining strength from that.
Good night!
ps- Denise, I am sleeping on that pillowcase :)

A Good Day

So yesterday I went to get my hair cut.  I started off the day talking to my nurse oncologist from "CarePath" and she helped me to understand the meds a little better and went through some of the more common side effects of the drugs and what I need to know about them.  I know I have said it before, but this service really is fantastic and I am so lucky that my Union offers this- she calls once a week and goes over recent events and she also gets a copy of all of my pathology reports and then helps me decipher some of the vocabulary- they also have an oncologist that they talk to if I have questions that they can't answer. Everything she has said has been dead on with what the doctor's are saying and it's is a great reassurance for me.
Back to the haircut- my dear friend Cathy met me at the hairdresser's.  I am really glad she did because I am not sure I could have done this one alone.  Ali, my hairdresser started cutting and she did a great job of distracting me from what she was doing. I actually was very pleased with myself, I held it together.  She offered us wine but I said no ( I know, stupid eh)- but these days one glass sends me straight to feeling tipsy!
When I went to pay at front reception they told me that there was no charge for the haircut!  How sweet was that.  I was taken aback, I didn't expect that at all.  Ali has been my hairdresser for over a decade and before that was my colourist- so we have been together for almost 14 years- a long time.  Thank you Ali and Shear Heaven- that was such a sweet and kind gesture- thanks for making it so much easier for me to do and I do love the haircut, it's very cute- just very short and I miss my curls!  I will post a picture as soon as I can get one of the kids to download it for me.
After that we went to see Pat the wig lady.  It was very weird sitting in a chair trying on wigs.  I tried on short wigs, long haired wigs, straight, curly, brown, blonde, red... I tried on alot and some of them were just ugly on me!  With Cathy's help I decided on a wavy wig, with straight longer bangs.  Cathy said it looks alot like how I used to wear my hair just after Jake was born. 
I was dreading yesterday but with a little help from my friend and some very compassionate people I felt good.  I came home smiling to mixed reviews about my hair but the one comment that will stick is when Jake said to me after he had time to digest the new look "mom, it doesn't change who you are, you are still you"
Very sweet don't you think?

Hair Today- Gone tomorrow!

I know it's been awhile and honestly I haven't felt like posting until today.  This past week has been emotional as I met with surgical, medical and radiation oncologists.  I guess I should get used to spending most of my days at the hospital.  The bottom line is that both chemotherapy and radiation are in my future.  I begin chemotherapy next Tuesday at 9 am.  I will be taken a "T&C' cocktail which will take about 2 hours to administer through intravenous drip.  I will be getting treatments every 3 weeks for 4 rounds altogether- although the timeline is really dependent on how I feel, react to the medicine and general health.  I guess they monitor me pretty closely.  I have to start steroids the day before- that's to suppress the system so that I don't get an allergic reaction and then I start the anti nausea pills the same day.  Two days after treatment a CCAC nurse comes to administer a white blood booster injection.  The pharmacist freaked me out yesterday when he told me that they only come the first time to show me how to do it myself and then I have to do the other ones- I am sure he could tell I was totally not impressed, not sure how I am going to do that without passing out- anyone willing to do that for me???  Maybe this will be Jenna's chance to see if she is cut out to be a doctor!   After chemo is all done I get a little break of about a month and then I delve into radiation.  That will be 5 days a week for 5 weeks.  So, all in all we are hoping to be done by June.

The only side effect that I know for sure will happen is that I will lose my hair.  I would be lying if I said I was not upset about losing my hair.  I love my hair, I have never wanted to change the wave or wish for straight hair, I just really like my hair.  I was told it will probably grow back grey and the texture will be completely different.  I know it's easy to say it's just hair and look at the trade off,but it really sucks. Tomorrow I am going to it cut very short and then I made an appointment with Pat, the famous wig lady among cancer patients.  I had heard her name many times in the past few months but Tuesday I met Pat when I went to the "Look Good, Feel Better Program."  What a great program, met some great people going through their own struggles and got a fantastic box of amazing skin products and make up. 

So yesterday as I was sitting on the couch in my house coat feeling sorry for myself and having a bad day my wonderful friend and colleague  Denise popped over to deliver the most fantastic and hilarious gift- a pair of full  size pink boxing gloves!  My entire staff signed the gloves and wrote down inspirational quotes and kick ass comments.  I am going to take them with me to my first day of chemo!!!  What a great idea- thank you so much!  Loved seeing Stella and Nill at the game today- it was so nice seeing you again!

Get them checked!

A great website I want to share with all of you.  It's American but it has a great video and a reminder to all that you need to get those girls checked on a regular basis.  How lucky are we that we live in a country where we can go and get one as needed and don't need to pay.  Make sure you click to give a woman in need in the States access to a free mammogram and enjoy the video.  Thanks Denise for reminding me about this website- it is great!  Thanks also for the chat today, I loved it :)

To get to the video, click on the link below then click to give a free mammogram and then it will take you to another page and scroll down, there is a you tube video called "click for your mamma"

http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/clickToGive/home.faces?siteId=2

This is a cute video too!
http://pinkglovedance.com/