More Hours Spent in the Doctors Office

I went to the oncologist today and she said that my lungs are clear and the antibiotics I have for my infection should clear up this cough. Them and Musinex. One would think that after hearing that commercial a million times in the last three months I would have thought of taking it myself. I took them a few hours ago and am still waiting for that miracle to happen.

Dan and I are hanging out playing on our laptops. With any luck there will be something on TV for us to watch later.

No Chemo Tomorrow

I guess that is a good thing, so maybe I don't have to start the new year feeling like shit. I do have an appointment with the doctor, but something happened with the scheduling and there is just no room for me to have chemo tomorrow. I am going to see the doctor to find out why I am still coughing, even with the magic pills they gave me on Christmas.

Today I saw my surgeon for a follow up and apparently you can get an infection three months after surgery. Something about low blood counts, immune systems and weak spots in my body. I have antibiotics for that now.

But I was not going to let that get the best of me. Since I was already showered and dressed, I went with my boys to the movies. It was based upon time, so it was either Seven Pounds or Bedtime Stories. Adam Sandler always makes me laugh, so it was okay. The only thing was we showed up just as the movie stared and we had to sit in the third row. Since I was scrunched down in my seat, it was hard to eat my popcorn. Later on I had to get half of it out of my bra. I do not think that would be good for my infected boob!

Daniel and I ate at the food court and Joe met up with his friends and left us. I got back here by 6 and I am tired! What a long day.

Doing Better

Since I got my little cough pills on Christmas, I am feeling much better. By Tuesday, Chemo day, I should feel terrific. For the last two days I have been taking my pills and sleeping! Now that is something new for me.

Today I actually got out of bed and got dressed and went out to bring Chip for a bath. Smelly dog on my bed is not good for my sleep or my cough. Daniel came with me and we went to lunch while waiting for Chip. Lunch at Panera and coffee at Starbucks, it was fun but now I am broke. Well not broke, but you know what I mean.

When we came back my Dad's car was in my driveway. We come in and my parents were here doing laundry and cleaning. Dan said "look two old people broke into our house" After they left I had a really nice visit with my friend Eileen from High School.

Now back to Dan my little comedian. On Christmas Eve, I filled my stockings and went to put them by the tree when Daniel yells out "Oh No there is no Santa, it is just a fat lady in pink pajamas". After I stopped laughing I told him my pj's were purple!

Merry Christmas

We all had a wonderful Christmas Eve. Mom was laughing because she had read yesterdays blog and by 6:30 they were begging to open presents and then Grandpa went on the battery hunt a few times. I got tired and crabby and we were home by 9:30, but it was still great.

As for how I feel, I feel terrible today. I have this horrible cough and have not slept in two days. I called my doctors office today and thank God for Dr. Cohen because he is calling me in a perscription for cough medicine. Only took three tries to find an open drug store. Dad will pick it up for me after he goes to church.

Daniel went to church with Kevin, and Joe stayed here to take care of me. No, not really it just sounds better! He actually went back to sleep. We were up early opening presents. Dan got me a giant remote beacuse I am always loosing mine and Joe got me really nice cutting boards. I thnnk he wants me to cook!

I hope to make it back to Mom's tonight for leftovers. I think I missed a few things yesterday.

Wiahing you all the best to you and your families for a Wonderful Christmas.

Merry Christmas Eve

Yesterday I felt bad all day. Tired and had this horrible cough. This morning I woke up feeling great. Do you think I can convince the family to have Christmas Eve lunch instead of dinner. I am just afraid this won't last. I will just watch my morning tv shows, take my nap then hope for the best. I am just waiting to hear "I'm bored" from Daniel.

Tonight we go to my parents house for dinner. No fish, we are not traditional Italians. I think it is lasagna and a roast. We are going there by 5, so the kids should have all the presents open by 7. Then we go on the battery hunt. There is always one toy that slips through the cracks.

The boys sleep here tonight. Daniel still wakes up early and forces Joe to get up to open presents. They both get one big present and then as many little presents that I could fit into their three foot tall stockings. I am usually creative with those presents, but this year I mail ordered some and then made it out one afternoon to shop. It was so long ago since I wrapped them I don't even remember what I got.

Tomorrow we will go to church, then they go with Kevin to his family's brunch. I figured they will be back in time to have leftovers at Mom's house.

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and or a Happy Hanukkah. Thanks for all the well wishes and prayers. They are definatally working.

Need to Get Moving

I need to find the motivation to get moving and get ready to go to the office Holiday Luncheon. There is a lot involved: taking a shower (before 3pm), putting on my wig, drawing in my eyebrows and doing all that other makeup stuff. Don't know if I can handle this! I have not been sleeping too good, but at least that excruciating pain has gone away!

Then I have to go find my car. I think it is out there somewhere. Next there is my icy driveway. I hope I don't wind up in my neighbors front window. Daniel has been doing the snow. Mom and Dad got me one of those electric shovels and Dan has been playing with it. He does not realize that he should go over the driveway with a real shovel after he is done!

Wait there is hope, Dad just came back. He brings Daniel to school everyday. I used to take him to school before work so now that I don't go, Grandpa does not want his baby to have to take the bus! Anyway, Dad just said that he will be outside cleaning off my car. He is the best! I must admit to being his number one baby!

Finally Feeling Better

I think I have been in bed for two days now. I did see Daniel come and go a few times, and he even made me a bologna sandwich for lunch today. Then he went to his dads house because it is too boring here. The snow is better over there.

Now that I think about it, Mom and Dad were here today before the snow. They did some laundry, vacuuming and some other stuff. I slept!

Now that I think I can finally stand up I am going to go take a shower, I can't stand myself anymore!

Here We Go Again!

It is like this chemo drug has a schedule. This month is the same as last month. It is two days after treatment and I can't get out of bed. All my muscles, joints, bones in my lower body hurt. My upper body aches too but not as bad. Very strange ha?

I have to keep telling the cat that it is not a good thing for him to sleep on my feet or knees. I think he uses me for warmth.

I am just going to lay here and wait for the snow to come tomorrow!

Updates

On Monday I actually make it out to go shopping. I went and got my grab bag present and went grocery shopping. Then at night I went to a healing mass and even got blessed. Apparently the blessing of the sick is not just for people on their death beds. Everyone in the church went up to get blessed. I guess there are all sorts of illnesses. It was a very good mass, I actually even got something out of the homily. Maybe I will go back again soon.

Yesterday I went for Chemo, number 6 of 8! Yeah! It was another long day. I was there from 11:45-5. We, my parents and I went to get KfC and the boys on the way home and I was very tired and very drugged up from the steroids and benedryl they gave me before the Taxol. Then they wonder why I was crabby! I really could not sleep last night, so that is what I plan on doing today.

Doing Nothing Lately

My Mom said it is time to update my blog. Sorry I have been busy lately, not sure what I am doing. Now I remember, we decorated our tree Wednesday night, and Thursday we did the outline for my, I mean Joe's report. Yesterday I went to the doctor and it was so windy I thought I was going to loose my wig! I had my hand on top of my head wondering how I would look running after my Little Orphan Annie wig.

My counts are good, so today I went all out. I went with my niece Kayla to have a manicure and pedicure. It was heaven. Now I look perfect to lay in bed next week after Chemo. I asked the doctor about changing the drugs that almost killed me last week, but she said that I should just try to deal with it and she will give me any pain killer I want. So if you all call or write to me at the end of the week, I will be high!

Holiday Concert was Funny

We ate dinner at Mom and Dad's house early and come back home to get ready for the concert. After convincing Dan he could not wear anything but a white tee shirt under his dress shirt, I ironed it and his pants real quick and off we went. When we were a block away Joe asked Dan something which made him remember that his drumsticks were still home. We came back and still made it to the concert on time.

We sat through the very long orchestra, then came the band. There are about 40 drummers/percussionists so I was giggling during the one song where there were kids playing cow bells and whistles. Then came the next song where Daniel was playing these jingle bells. Serves me right for laughing at those other kids. Right before that song, he came out and dropped his drumsticks. We thought it was really funny because they echoed. We saw him bend down to get them, but what we did not see was he didn't get them because they had fallen into the stage! He borrowed his friends sticks and seemed to do very well. If I had know that was going to happen I wouldn't have gone back home to get them! As of last night they are still under the stage! His father is going to go by and get them for him!

All this made for a very long three hours and I came home totally exhaused!

Got a Tree

Yesterday I did my usual nothing all day. Watch morning TV, napped and watched some more TV. Then I actually cooked dinner, went to pick up Joe and his friend who is a girl, not girlfriend, so he says. Drove her home, had dinner here and then went for a quick trip to Target. They made me crazy it was like I was with two 5 year olds! They played with every toy in the toy isle, yelled at each other and then threw all sorts of junk food in my wagon.

On the way out of the mall, Dan begged me to go get a tree. We stopped by home depot and checked out all their dead trees, then went to some local stand and got a really cute tree, that actually fits in my house. I left the house with a wallet full of cash and came home with nothing! I am not leaving here again!

The cats checked out the tree when we got home, tasted a few branches and now are leaving it alone. Dan said he thought that Chip was going to pee on it but I think he was just smelling it! My baby would never do such a thing!

Today I am really tried (I wonder why) so I am going to do nothing! Tonight I have to go to Dan's Holiday Concert. He plays the drums and is in two whole songs. He said there are lots of drummers. It is going to take me longer to find and iron his white shirt and pants then it is for him to actually play! Wish me luck!

Feeling Much Better Now

I made it through the weekend okay. The horrible pain seemed to go away by Saturday night, but I think my counts must be low because I had no energy yesterday! All I managed to do was drive Joe to the library and order Chinese food. Daniel had a friend over, so he kept himself busy. They knew I was tired so they tried to keep quiet.

I did manage to put out some Christmas decorations. It looks nice in here now. Daniel is trying to talk me into getting a real tree. Last year was our first fake one and he did not like it. I just don't know about the cats and a real tree. Anyone have any advice?

Well I need to go take my mid-day nap. It would be really great if I was not up at three am everyday!

They Lied to Me

This Taxol drug is much worse! I have been in bed for two and a half days now! I could not move on Thursday or Friday. Today is a little better, but the only way I got through the last two days was by taking the oxycodone I had left from my surgery!
I have never had my bones, muscles ache so much.

Today my workers (Anthony, Dad and Mom) came over to put a rug down in Daniel's room. Good thing we brought it last week. I just keep spending this money I am not making. I better get back to work soon! It looks very nice. The press and stick tile that came with the house looked like one of those shore houses we used to rent when we were teenagers!

I am going to get motivated soon and go with them over to mom and dads house. I think I need a change of scenery. I will see if I remember how to drive by going down the half a mile to their house.

Spending the Day in Bed

So the new chemo drug is not making me terribly nauseous, but it is causing me lots of pain in my joints and muscles (a common side effect, so they say). Earlier today I took Advil and slept and that seemed to work, so that is what I am going to do again.

Yesterday was okay, I actually wrapped some Christmas presents. My cards are done already waiting to be mailed. Back to side effects, from what I read, I should be okay in a day or two. It's a good thing my mommy is here doing laundry, I may have run out of sweatpants!

Long day at chemo

What a long day, I got to the chemo office at 1:15 and left at 5:45. I feel okay but really tired. I could not even sleep there. It's bright and loud and the drugs made me jumpy today. I feel bad for my parents because they were there with me. Mom sat with me and Dad came back here and did some of my leaves and then came back for us. Mom and I did finish my Christmas cards!

When we were done I went to Mom and Dads to eat. Then came home and waited for the boys to come home. Then I helped Joe with his homework and now all I want to do is sleep. Joe just went home and I am trying to get Daniel to go to bed because as soon as I fall asleep, he will come and talk to me if he is still awake.

Been busy doing nothing

We had Dan and Dom's birthday's on Saturday. They had a great time and got lots of presents. As for me I have done a lot of nothing for the last two days. Time sure flies when you are having fun (and napping). I am so tired of being tired! I think I have said that before. I did manage to take Chip for a walk today. The fresh air almost killed me!

I have been thinking of looking at the big stack of bills I have. Maybe I will do that in the morning. Lot's of co-pays I don't want to think about. Tomorrow I have chemo in the afternoon. I will probably be there from 1-5. I have to keep reminding myself that I halfway there, because I really get bummed when I think about going.

More updates tomorrow.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DANIEL!

Today is my baby Daniel's 12th Birthday. I can't believe how time flies. We will be having a party for him and his cousin Dominick tonight at my parents house. Dominick's 10th birthday was yesterday. They planned this party together and they even decorated the basement last week!

As for me I am feeling good. Ready for the new chemo drug on Tuesday. Maybe that one will allow me to find my brain. I lost it a while ago. As soon as something pops in my mind, it is gone. I was very proud of myself yesterday, I actually went grocery shopping all by myself. I was thinking of going Christmas shopping, but I don't do Black Friday. That is for amateurs, I can find a bargain any day of the year!

What I am thankful for:

You. I am thankful for all my wonderful family and friends. Thanks for all your love, support, gifts, calls, emails and prayers. People like you make this battle a whole lot easier. All my love and please have a Happy Thanksgiving.

Nothing much going on

I know I was supposed to update you all yesterday, but it was a very boring day. I went to the doctors and found out my counts were low again. So there went my big plans to go to Target! But the doctor and I did talk about me being half way through Chemo. Starting Tuesday the drugs change. The new one will be easier to deal with, so she says. I had the choice of going for a weaker treatments and going every week for three months, or going for the stronger dosage every other week for two months. I opted for the two months. I need this to be over sooner!

Last night Joe and I started "our" paper for English. Anyone know anything about Julius Caesar? Tenth grade was so long ago!

Baby Daniel is very excited because his birthday is on Saturday. He will be twelve. I guess I should stop calling him Baby Daniel!

Just Another Update

Hi all. I just saw a few of my friends and they told me that I need to update more often. I said I did not want to bore you all, but they say they check daily and need updates.

So here goes. Today I put on some makeup and my wig and went to a benefit for a little boy who has leukaemia. Boy what a wake up call! He is adorable and is about two or three years old and he will be in treatment until 2011.

It was a tricky tray and I did not bring my luck with me. I along with Colleen were the only ones at our table who did not win. But it was fun. Then on the way out, Colleen's cousin gave me one of her baskets and my friend Georgia game me one of her prizes. So I am not a big looser after all! Good thing for friends!

As for me I feel good. A little tired now, but good. Tomorrow I sleep until my doctors appointment. Tomorrow is easy, I just give blood and see the doctor. I should be out in an hour. As compared to Chemo days when I am there for at least three and a half. I first get my vitals checked, then I give blood, then see the doctor and then get hooked up to my drugs for two hours. It is a long process, but it is halfway over! Yeah! I should be done in mid January.

I will update you all tomorrow!

Boring Week

I made it through Chemo on Tuesday. It helped that my friend Denise came with me and we stopped by Toys R Us on the way home. Got a few Christmas presents done. We drove around picked up my boys and had a nice Pizza Hut dinner here.

Last night's dinner from RSG was chicken cutlet parm with pasta. The boys were not here so I can't wait for lunch today!

I am sitting here feeling my head that is mostly stubble and wondering if it will just start growing back since it all never fell out. I do have my Charlie Brown Christmas bandana ready!

Since I have all this time on my hands I have my Christmas card picture done and ready to be sent. I may be your first but I am trying to take my time addressing them.

Well it is nap time now, so I will catch you up again soon.

Chemo Again Tomorrow

After tomorrow I will be at my halfway point. Also on the next treatment they change drugs, so it should get easier. Yeah! My best buddy Denise is coming with me tomorrow so it should go by quickly.

Today I went into work for a meeting. It was great seeing everyone. It was good to also know that one day my brain will function again. It all seemed vaguely familiar.

Yesterday, Anthony and Dad came over to measure my room so I can one day get a rug. Since I felt good I decided yesterday would be a good day. I went with Anthony to home depot and got a nice cheap rug that looks much better than the press and stick tile that came with the house. On the way out we saw a door on sale that would be great for Daniel's room. So I got that too. Gotta love that plastic. Hopefully I will have money when the bill comes in.

On Saturday I did nothing but sleep and fight this stupid cold. I go nowhere, how did I get a cold? Hopefully it will not interfere with tomorrows treatment.

Happy Friday

Hello all, I hope all my followers are having a happy friday. Mine is good, I haven't gotten my nap in yet. My parents and aunt stopped by before to drop off my car because my dad had been using it while his is getting fixed. They went to leave and Aunt Chubby's car had a flat tire. I am begining to think I have bad carma. She called the AAA and we ordered lunch. That was my second lunch today. When I finally go back to work they are going to have to roll me in the building. I will make sure I wear my wig so I don't look like a Weeble.

The reason I needed my car was just in case I had to go to the doctor. I had to call this morning because I now have a horrible cold! My feet are fine now, but I can't stop sneezing. My doctor just called and I do not have to go in, and I can take some drugs. So now I am going to nap. Have a good weekend.

Just an Update

Sleeping a lot yesterday and today. Feeling ok but sleepy! The newest thing is my feet are killing me. Something about the chemo drugs settling there. It feels like sunburn. Hard to walk so I will just sit here and get fatter!

Daniel the rotten little kid thinks that getting cancer is a good thing. We see and talk to lots of family and friends lately and people keep sending presents. Yesterday my cousin Debi(and family) sent me a wonderful dinner. It included everything from the dinner, the dessert and even Pelligrino water.

In case I have forgotten to thank anyone, I really appreiate all for the wonderful presents, dinners, homemade treats, emails and cards you have all sent. You are all terrific.

So take a hint from Daniel, call a friend or family member that you have not seen in a while and just say hello! Please prove to him that people are not just nice because someone is sick. He's 11 you know!

Speaking of Dan, Last night right before I crashed, I had to pull a tick off of him. They went hiking yesterday. I saved it and am waiting for his doctor to call.

Not sure if I can blame the hiking because he did rake my leaves before he left. Joe was not in the mood to help so I told his father not to ever bring him back until he was ready to help. Before they left Kevin blew all the leaves into a big pile. I guess he does not want Joe all to himself. Last night, horrible child did come over and eat dinner. I can't stay mad at him for too long, and I really did not care who did the leaves as long as they got done. I only get mad because if they are not done my crazy father will do them. (He did pick up all the piles last night). He really forgets he will soon be 81.

Well I must move on with my busy day. Hope you are all having as much fun as I am. The mail will be here soon!

Low White Counts Again

Went for my weekly check up and said I was tired and my doctor said because my counts are really low! She said go home and go to bed for two days! What else is new? I guess this explains why I am so crabby.

Joe and Daniel are off from school tomorrow, but thankfully have plans with their Dad. So I will be sleeping.

Nice to Get Out

Went out today, got two new hats (because I still hate my wig) some groceries and a new comforter. Can't stand to look at this one anymore! I went with Mom and Aunt Chubby and did not crash the car! Now I am totally exhausted. Is it too late for a nap? Too early for bed?

It Just Gets Worse

Today I went to go to the movies with Mom, Dad and Chubby. We were going to go to the early show, but got into a fender bender before we got there. Of corse I was driving. I had the right of way but the guy on the other side of the three way stop did not.. He hit us. Dad's car has about $1700. of damage. They say I can't go out with them anymore. I just wanted to get a little air.

After we got a police report, we went to lunch, then went back to the movies. It was still nice to get out, but tomorrow I stay in!

Sleepy Day

It was a good thing I got those meds, because I feel sick today. I took all three and slept most the day away. Sleep is good!

The most amazing thing I found out today was not only did my co-workers send dinner for last night, they will be sending dinner twice a week for the next six weeks. Isn't that unbelievable! I am so excited. So are the boys!

Long Day... But getting better

Today I spent most of the say on the phone with the insurance company and my doctors office trying to get one of my anti-nausea meds filled.(I did manage to take a nap. Finally at four I went to the doctors office to pick up a sample pack and get my shot to raise my blood count. I had to go get it because I messed up the one I had here. Funny I did it fine last month(Chemo Brain again)! Thank God they had a sample otherwise it would be $2000 out of pocket. So it was a totally screwy day. But then I realized I made it through the day without the anti-nausea drug, so maybe I don't need that one. But I am glad I have it just in case.

Then my day got even better. My wonderful co-workers sent me dinner from my favorite Italian place. It was such great timing! The boys were thrilled and so was I.

Went for Chemo and to Vote

Crazy day, I realized today I did not have two of the three anti nausea medicines. I called them in and had to go to the next town to get the one, after convincing the girl that I really needed it today. Then sent my dad to get the other one tonight and they did not have it. They say the insurance company will not cover it before the 14th. My dad wanted to pay for it but it was over $500. so I said no way. If I get sick, I will use one of those nice waterproof mailers and I am going to send it to Aetna and Rite Aid. Why Rite Aid, because I actually called that one in on Sunday, and they did not call me to say I could not have it! Of course there is no one at Aetna at 6:50 p.m.

I also picked up Dotty's medicine. I do not even want to talk about the cost of that. Not as bad as mine, but I am trying to save up to pay all my co-pays. My bestest friend Rich came over to drug her. First he had to take a trip back to the vet because they forgot to give me a dropper. Of course Dotty scratched him! Now he is going to get Cat Scratch Fever.

I told my doctor about Dotty and she said if I start feeling like a cat, we will worry. Then she just said to be careful.

As for Chemo, it was okay. Three down, five to go! I am really sleepy now so I think I will nap now and wake up later for the election results.

Never a Dull Moment

I was sitting her getting mentally ready for Chemo number three tomorrow, when the cute new Vet called to tell that Dotty my white cat has Bartonella also known as Cat Scratch Fever(she probabally picked it up as a kitten). They treat it with antibiotics and it is only a problem for people with compromised immune systems. Like me I said. He told me to inform my doctor and then called me back a half hour later to tell me he printed information for my doctor. I guess the good thing is that I am already on antibiotics for my drain site infection. My mother is freaking out. "Those animals are going to kill you." and so on......

Happy Halloween

Having a great day! I went to see Giuseppe. He actually called me yesterday before I got a chance to call him. He wanted to check on me. A good hairdresser is better than a therapist! He styled my wig, now I look like me. Then cut my two hair pieces (to wear with hats) and re-shaved my head. (He only charged me for one haircut)

After that I picked Dan and his friend up from school, then cooked and cleaned up while they Trick or Treated. Dan and Joe both say I make a better mother these days. Yeah, then they get upset when I say I can't get out of bed for days after chemo.
Now I am exhausted but the good thing is that Kevin took the boys over to a haunted house.

I am not getting too many kids at my door and Chip barks when they are approaching so it is not that bad. So far I have only eaten Neccos and Candy Corn. Hope everyone has a Happy Halloween!

Doing Okay

Went for my weekly check up and I am doing good. My white counts are a little low. I guess I won't be venturing out too much. I also have an infection where my drain used to be. That stupid thing is haunting me! I have antibiotics now.

I also made it to ShopRite and had dinner with my boys. We all cooked then made a pie with the apples from our apple picking. Now I am totally exhaused. As soon as Joe goes home I am going to bed.

Can't Wear That Wig!

My wig is so hairy and hot that I can't wear it. It maybe because I got used to short hair, or it is this early menopause that the chemo is putting me into. Hey Bev, I finally know what you mean about those hot flashes!

I am thinking of going to visit Giuseppe my wonderful hairdresser and have him trim it a little. I have a bunch of hats and even some hairpieces I may try to wear today. I like my bandanna the best, but Dan said I am "flashing the Bloods colors when I wear it".

Anyway, enough about hair, or my lack of it. Today I get to go have my white blood counts tested. I feel really good today so I hope all is well. I may even venture out and go to Shop rite on my way home.

Daniel has a football game today, but not sure if I am going. I guess if I wear my wig, I won't be cold at all. There are about 50 kids on the team and they seem to play the eight graders the most. They have reached puberty and are really big!

I will update you (about my appointment) later on today.

I FINALLY DID IT

And I must say I have a very nicely shaped head. I made it through the day by wearing a hat, but clumps of hair kept falling every time I moved. We went apple picking. I lost my keys. The nice people at the farm found my keys. Kayla got stung by a bee, but we still had fun. It was great to get some fresh air.

We went back to Mom and Dad's and I slept on the couch for hours. We ate dinner there and then I came home and could not stand it anymore. I called my parents and told them to bring over their hair buzzer. While I waited for them I cut most of it off myself with a scissor. It felt great, kind of liberating. When they got here they just had to buzz what was left. The boys are freaked and were much happier once I put a hat on. I can't wait to sleep on it tonight without it hurting. That was nasty!

I will not be sending out pictures and I have my wig ready to go. The only thing is it is reddish, not multi colored like my own hair, but it will have to do.

Daniel's Blog

Dan wants to know why all you people are reading this blog about nothing. My mom sits home sleeps and does nothing all day, what is there to read about??

Chemo Brain!

Daniel and I can't stop laughing. I was kind of sleeping when Daniel came in to say good night. Dotty the white cat followed him and we were laying here talking about her and then I just sat up opened my arms wide as if I were holding something and I said "I have never been to an apple peeling place." Then Daniel said WHAT??? I said APPLE PEELING PLACE!

After laughing for a long time we realized I must have been thinking of apple picking. There is a place about 5 minutes from here and we are going to try to go tomorrow. If I can't go Uncle Anthony will take them. So I can just stay here and dream about peeling apples.

I think that is why they call it Chemo Brain!

Is it Still Friday?

I took my meds and they really make me sleep! I slept most of the day and got up a little while ago when my mom, dad and aunt came to check in. They made me get out of bed! I do find some energy to get up and eat, Something is making me hungry!

I am waiting to shave my head till Sunday, I want to see my my neice and nephew first. They are comming tomorrow. It is not falling out too badly, only when I touch it! But my surgery site is good today so one less thing to worry about!

I have a really cool skull and cross bone bandana for Halloween, so I should be set.

Feeling a little Blah today

It seems that my body waits for day three to crash from Chemo. I am a little nauseous today and just tired! Had to call the doctor, my lumpectomy site seems to have not liked the chemo. It turned red! I spoke to a nurse and she has to check with the doctor. I am hoping I don't have to go in because I do not feel like getting dressed.

Daniel stayed home from school today. I am not sure if he really does not feel well or if he is having sympathy pains. I am staying as far away as I can!

Oh yeah and if that is not enough I am loosing my hair in clumps and my scalp is hurting me. So sad I can't think of anything funny to say today! I think I will go back to sleep!

Two Down Six To Go

Went for Chemo today. It was a long process. It started by them not being able to get an accurate blood pressure reading. After four times they finally got it. Then they sent me for blood. They tried to get it though the port, but that did not work. So they tried my veins and even that was trouble. My body was just not cooperating. The nurse had to pull it out of me with a syringe.

Than everything got better. My white counts were good and the Chemo went fine. I sat there freezing and eating my Italian ice. They say that should help me not get those nasty mouth soars.

I also picked the wrong chair when I got there because apparently the man next to me was deaf. His TV was so loud I couldn't hear my TV. I thought I was at my parents house. Thank God I had my ipod and a blanket.

So over all it was good. I took my three anti nausea drugs, plus the one in the IV and now I am wasted. I did not nap today so I am exhausted! More updates to come....

Chemo Again Tomorrow

I am finally feeling really good (not great, but good) and they are going to Zap me again tomorrow. I am not happy! I guess if I just sleep again for three days after it won't be so bad. By then my hair will be falling out so I will really have something to bitch about. But that is what I have all of you for; my wonderful friends and family tho listen to my complaining. If I haven't mentioned it, thanks for the support.

Stuff

I made it to Daniel's game and it was COLD! Started off good, but went bad quickly. They lost 30 to 6. Dan said it is okay he had fun anyway. Nothing really bothers him. I need to learn more from him.

I have to go for my second Chemo treatment on Tuesday. I am finally starting to feel good and I have to start all over again. This can get out quickly. But I did go out for a little while today. My brother and the kids were over today and Kayla convinced me that we should go for pedicures. I am glad we did because my feet feel great now! It was good for me to go, because Mom, Dad and Anthony's were working way too much around my house and I was just getting in the way!

I did notice that my hair is getting thinner. I was just beginning to really like my short hair. Oh well, my wig and hats are waiting! Not sure I am going to like wearing that wig! On a positive note, it does look like my hair and winter is coming so now someone can wear those twenty something dollar "Element" hats that Daniel had to have when he was going through his skater phase!

Have to go out later today

Very important day, Dan is playing in his first middle school football game. It's at 4:30 so I am hoping to go for a few minutes and avoid people and their germs. He is so excited, got to wear his jersey to school which makes him a chick magnet. So he tells me. At 11 my baby wants to be a chick magnet! It's so cute, he got to choose his number and he picked the same one (63) that Joe had.

I was very busy shopping this morning. Which reminds me to call that damm disabilty carrier and find my missing checks. I was on some wig website and got two partial wigs to wear with hats. The way I figure it I will be bald by the 28th. Anyone want to come to my head shaving party? Wait seriously, maybe we chould make this a party?

I also ordered a sweatshirt and sweatpants. My outfit of choice these days. I better stop geting those catalogs!

It was very quiet here last night, both Joe and Sherry the dog went home. I really missed Sherry! No.... really I missed Joe too. Chip is very sad today. There is no one to bark with. The cats just won't listen to him.

Well it seems to be past my naptime. Hope everyone has a nice weekend.

So I did not kill him

Joe made it through the night and even apologized to me and helped straighten up a bit last night. I had to "sleep" on it to realize that he is just being Joe. He needs to justify that he is going home tonight. If he had a good time being here then it makes it harder to go home. If he hated it, and I am horrible mother he can justify going home because it makes the change easier. Gotta love that anxiety boy! I just forget sometimes!

ARRRGH!!!!!

Okay, Chemo is nothing compared to life with a teenager. Joe who usually lives with Kevin has been here for a week now. Kevin went to Ireland on the day I started Chemo (no comment). It has been a little rough for both Joe and I but I have managed to be the Cool Mom and let him go out a lot and even had everyone play Chauffeur for him.

Tonight I said I wanted him to eat dinner here (which Daniel cooked) and that he could not go hang out in town at 7:00 pm. Now I am the most horrible bitch that lives. He called me names I would never even consider calling my mother. Even if she were them. He thinks I am stupid! Something is going on (in town) and he is not going to be a part of it!

Mouth sores were nothing compared to this! The good thing is that Kevin is comming home late tonight so this is the last night Joe HAS to sleep here! Love him to death, but I do not have a problem with him living at Kevin's.

Doing Well but Tired

So they gave me three prescriptions for my mouth and it is doing much better. Now my problem is that I told the doctor I was not sleeping so she gave me Ambien. The one that sounds so wonderful in the commercials. Well I think I fell asleep at 11:30 and now I have been up since 4:00 am. I am just ready to crash now. I don't think I will be taking that again tonight!

Yeah... going to sleep. The View is on and those woman just make me nuts! They are talking about Madonna. I can't stand her either! Ohhh...I am crabby, I better sign off now!

More Issues :-(

Okay, so today I went for an unscheduled visit to the Onconology Center. I had this killer sore throat and now learn that it is Chemo mouth sores. I have four new perscriptions. Which I am waiting for my parents to come back from filling. Can't get good help these days!

They say my white blood cell counts are dangerously low. I have to stay away from everything and everybody. Also I have to follow this Chemo diet. Weird things, basically bland, cooked foods. I should feel better in a few days, probably just in time for the next chemo.

Oh... the help is here. Gotta go take my drugs.

Can't Sleep!

Crazy, It's 6:30 and I am so tired but can't sleep! I have been up for over an hour now. Maybe if I had some energy to move during the day I would be sleeping now. Even the animals are sleeping. But, I do think they have a schedule of my bed, cause every time I wake up there is a different one next to me.

Did I mention that my throat is so sore! Not enough water or ice pops around. I guess I will call the doctor later, but I hate even thinking of going there.

Boy am I being bitchy. The boys keep telling me that too. I'm sorry if I bummed you out. I may sleep soon, I took some kinda drug I have here. I think it was the anxiety one, hopefully not the nausea one. I did make it thruough the day yesterday with no drugs, except Tylenol.

Well I really have to try to sleep the boys will be up in five hours. No school today. Hopefully I find some energy to do something with them.

Went for the Really Short Haircut

My mom said that I look like her. I was trying to think of who I look like then I put on the TV and Ellen is on. Well it's not blond anymore, but it is really short, even shorter than hers. I just went to my buddy Gusieppi, exchanged some hugs and kind words and told him to go for it. He even said if I want to shave it he will come to my house. Gotta have a good therepist!(I mean hairdresser).

Picked up my wig yesterday. It is much longer than it is today. It is reddish and looks like my real hair. I figure it would be good for the winter when it is cold.

Yesterday I just about made it to pick up the wig. I left the house with a bunch of energy and then crashed. I almost let Joe drive home. Then I remembered he is only
15. I got home went to sleep and felt much better. Still taking the anti nausea drugs and not loving coffee much, but otherwise things are good.

Making it by Pretty Well

Still taking the anti-nausea meds. Went for my white blood cell boost shot yesterday. I forgot the mention in my last blog that all my scans came back good. They said that the cancer did not spread at all. So that is a great thing!

Today I am going to try to pick up my wig again. That should be fun! But no worries if it is not right I will just wear my "Fuck Cancer" hat. It arrived it the mail the other day and it is just great. It is the perfect pink. Daniel wants to wear it to school tomorrow, because it is breast cancer awareness day. I told him he had to find something else to wear!

I think I have what they call "Chemo Brain" already. Can't seem to think straight. I was doing laundry yesterday and took the clothes out of the washer and put them into the dryer, then went to get more and took the clothes back out of the dryer and threw them in the washer. Crazy!!! I will just wait till my mom comes over to do more laundry.

I Made it thru Chemo Treatment # 1

Boy was I sacred this morning! So I took an anti anxiety pill and fell asleep for hours. I woke up with enough time to shower and put on some makeup. What I learned from yesterday's seminar, you have to look good to feel good.

Anyway, I got there at 1:00 and they took my blood and vitals and then brought me to the Chemo room. It is a really big room with lots of reclining chairs. Each chair had a blanket, pillow and a personal TV. I was expecting snacks, but there were none. They do have magazines and tables by each chair and said I bring my own food if I want. I heard if I eat ice pops during treatment I won't get mouth soars.

My Mommy was there with me while they put the needle and first stuff in my port. Since it was going to be two more hours, I sent her and Dad shopping for me.
The time went by quickly, I had the TV, my ipod and just sat back and relaxed. I was really cold. They say it is from the drugs. Next time I wear socks!

I am home now. My personal assistants (Mom and Dad) came in, made me soup, folded my laundry and then went home. I just took the third type of anti-nausea medicine. I wrote it all down so I can remember what I took when. I feel lightheaded and woozy, and just my mouth is a little watery, but overall not bad at all.

The boys are going to dinner and a movie with their father. So I am going to take another nap now. Maybe I will wake up in time for the debate.... No too boring, that will just put me back to sleep. I will update you all tomorrow. Thanks for reading.

Ready for Tomorrow

Tomorrow I start Chemo. Only for two hours. I hear that they will put it in thru my port, but I don't see how since I am still in a lot of pain and the steri-strips (they are like stitches) have not even fallen off yet. I will just have to wait and see. I have my supply of anti-nausea drugs ready. I also have anti anxiety drugs which I think I may be taking soon.

This morning I went to a Look Good Feel Better seminar. It was a make up session for Chemo patients. I was one of the few that still had my own hair. It was really good and I got a bag full of makeup. I think it's more than I have owned in my life. I am still trying to get off the mascara.

I looked great when I come home for my nap. Woke up and waited for the Verizon man. Only took me an hour to set up the Internet after he left. Good thing Daniel came home to help me!

Went to Church Tonight

It's been quite a while since I have gone to Church. I think I took the summer off. I was really good for the 8 years that I taught religion. Last year I decided that I needed to "retire". Dan and his friends were getting too old to be cute! Joe finished after confirmation in eight grade. It was really hard keeping the attention of a bunch of ten year olds.

Anyway, back to tonight. Mom and Dad stopped by today to help me out. They did some light cleaning and made me get out of bed. Then suggested I go to church with them. Since Daniel was out I figured what the heck. We get there the mass is just starting and my mom decides we should go sit in the second row. She likes to be by the choir man. He always blesses her! We were so close I felt like we were serving the mass. Did I mention that on one was sitting in front of us.

After dinner we went back to their house for pizza. Stayed for a little while then decided that I missed my bed and sweatpants, so came back home. Chip really missed me he even did a happy pee although I was only gone for 2 1/2 hours. The cats didn't even know I had left!

Dan just got in a little while ago and Joe has been staying away because he is being forced to stay here next week because his father is going away. They do have a few days off from school so it shouldn't be too bad for him!

More Stuff to Bitch About:

So I was feeling pretty good in the beginning of the week. I had to go for two different scans. This fasting thing is killing me. You all know me and my morning coffee! They went ok. I think they are so they have a baseline before Chemo.

I also had my mediport put in on Wednesday. It went fine, but now I am hurting on my left side too. They really don't want cancer patients to be able to sleep! There is a two inch scar below my collar bone and there is this big bump under my skin. But from what I read, this in normal. I also hear I will be greatful once chemo starts.

Last night I met my best buddy Denise to pick up my wig. What a disaster! It was straight with a side part with a bid of a wave. We explained to the ladies there that I needed more curls and then they brought out a "bad" wig one that had too many curls and had gotten frizzy. Denise and I laughed because that bad wig looked just like my hair! We asssured them that that was the style I wanted. They say as long as that is what I want, that is what they will do. Wish me luck.

I slept most of the day today and not motivated to do anything at all. I did make a few phone calls to learn that my disability check is lost in the mail. It can only get better, right?

Had to Change the Format

If you haven't noticed it is Pink Month, I think they call it breast cancer awareness. I have the pink tick tacs, cream cheese, chocolate syrup, and rubber bracelets. I actually broke one today, as I was getting ready in the hospital to have my port implanted. I am hoping that is a good sign.

Oh, the point of this is I needed to see less pink on my blog.

It's all Good

Must keep this short. Too many drugs to type much. They put the port in this morning and it all went fine. I just got in a little while ago. They told me to take the painkillers today, so I will be sleeping! Night, Night.

Great Day and Ready for Tomorrow

Today I woke up at a reasonable hour, spent hours on the phone with the cable company and my cell phone carrier looking for ways to save some money. I am waiting for my first disability check to arrive. Which I hear is only sixty percent of my salary. I did save some money, it's amazing what they sign you up for when you get the package deals.

Since I saved money and still felt good I took the boys to the mall. They wanted to know if I remembered how to drive. We got there okay had a snack, and then saw the movie Ghost Town. It was just like that show Ghost Whisper. I liked it but Joe and Daniel were not thrilled because no one got blown away, there was no chase scene and no hot chicks. I will say no more, except they learned that from their father.

When we got home I was totally exhausted just sitting here watching TV for hours. I am trying to see what else I can eat before I am cut off at midnight from eating again before my 9:30 am appointment at the hospital. They are putting in my medi-port. It is something they put under my skin, so they don't have to keep poking me when I am having chemo. Just when I started feeling better they have to put another hole in me! They say it will be quick. We'll see, they lied to me last time!

More Medical Procedures Scheduled

So now I know why I can't go back to work yet. On Monday I have to go have a PET scan done. I have to be at the place at 8:30 AM and I get to have some radioactive stuff pumped into me. Then they do some scan and I get to go home in a few hours. Wait, not home, I have to go for one more follow up with the surgeon.

On Wednesday I get to go back to the hospital to have a medi-port put in me. This way they don't have to find a vein each time I go for Chemo. On Thursday I get to go for a scan of my heart. I think that is to make sure it can handle the Chemo. Then I get to have a few days off and I start chemo on Tuesday the 7th.

So today I had this great idea. Since Anthony and the kids were over and I was feeling good, I decided it was time I got out to do something fun. Just as Kayla and I were leaving my house to go for pedicures, I slipped on the driveway and scrapped the entire bottom of my leg and my foot. There went our pedicures! Kayla took it well. We went grocery shopping and got sparkly nail polish. I guess I needed to be sure that my entire right side of my body is sore! Poor me, anyone want to come to my pity party?

So what am I doing up at 12:42 AM? I wish I knew. I was exhaused at 9:30 when I picked Joe up from his friends house. Then he had to stop home for his stuff, which lead us to taking Sherry the dog with us. We got back and I was just talking to Joe for a really long time. It's nice to know he needs his Mommy sometimes.

Now I am exhaused. I hope your week is more exciting than mine!

Big Day Out

Yesterday I woke up feeling good so decided it would be a good day to pick out my wig. Or "Cranial Prostesis" as my prescription says. Mom and Aunt Chubby came with me. We went to this place and there was about 100 wigs all around the the walls. Scary!

They measured me took pictuers and tried to help me pick out a color. I went with the base color I have now. Kind of a light reddish brown. They did not have a wig with six different colors like I have now. The one they helped me pick out was long, straight with bangs. Now that I think about it, it reminds me of Peggy Bundy from "Married with Children". They promise it will look like me when they are done. They curl and cut it so we will see in a few weeks.

The way I figure it I start Chemo on the 7th they say it takes a few weeks for your hair to fall out, so I should be bald by Halloween. This could be fun!

Talk about timing, I am watching this talk show and some lady is talking about cancer. I went to her web site which let me to another and I just ordered myself a hat. It is the best, I may not even need a wig after I get it. It is a pink ski cap that says "FUCK CANCER". Do you want to be the first person out with me when I wear it?

I must get to "work" now I have a bunch of papers I have to fill out for disability.
Happy Rainy weekend!

Crabby, Tired, Achy.... Long Day

That is how I feel today. I just got back a little while ago. Spent three hours at the Oncologist's office. We got there and after going into three different buildings. We finally found the right one. We walked in and it is like the "Night of the Living Dead". It was this small, puke green waiting room filled with very, very old people. Then there was one Rabbi and one Nun in wheelchairs. The only magagazines in the office were cancer related and it was hot and smelly in there.

After filling out many papers and waiting forever, I met with a very nice nurse. She asked me the same questions I just answered on the forms. Then I waited some more, got my Mommy and met the doctor. She was also very nice and spoke us for over a half hour, She explained everything and even drew me diagrams.

I need to have Chemo for 4 months, once every two weeks. The Chemo will take two hours to administer. I first need to go back to my surgeon to have a port put in. This way then don't have to go sticking my veins each time. The day after Chemo I have to go back for something to help my white blood cells. I shouldn't really feel bad until day 7. Yes, I will loose my hair. I even have a RX for a wig. Any opinions on what color I should go? (Cherie the girl said all blond)

Did I mention that past the waiting room the rest of the building was very nice. Open airy and even the chemo room was nice.

After those four months I have to go for radiation. Only for 6 weeks. Then there was something about hormone therapy for 5 years.

My head is spinning. I did not make it to back to school night for Daniel, but Kevin was going so hopeful he will fill me in and I don't miss too much. Joe's school is tomorrow. Not sure if my head will still be spinning.

I also need to go for a pet scan and a heart scan. She made it sound like those are just baseline and did not think the cancer spread anywhere else. She said if she were to have cancer this would be the one she would choose.

As for work, who knows. She said lets see how I feel. Today I feel like I have a hole in my side where that drain was. Oh wait.. I do. And my arm is very achy. Who knew that breast cancer would be such a pain in my arm! They say it is from the nerves they hit during the lymph node removal.

I went to dinner at my parents house. Mom sent me home because I was too crabby! I really don't blame her. I am much better now that I have my bed, my pj's and my dog.

FINALLY no more tubes!

So today I finally got the stupid drain out from my side. I just have to hope and pray that I was done draining, because if not he mentioned something about a needle. I am not good with things that stick me. Tomorrow I meet my Oncologist.

BUT the really bad news is I killed my laptop. I am hoping Joe can figure out what I did or else I am going to call Dell. I don't have the patience to talk to those nice people in India today. It all started with the new battery that I did not buy from Dell. Teaches me not to be cheap.

I must keep this short because I have to go find my discs that came with my computer. Wish me luck.

Forgot to Say

In my ranting and raving yesterday I forgot to say that when I met with the surgeon he said that he had taken out 16 lymph nodes and it was great that they were all clear! Yeah! Now I know why I have such a big scar! No really, he sounded very positive. I am just crabby because I am very achy today.

Still need to hide

This is really crazy. I could not have the drain removed from my side yet. Apparently my body is not ready yet! I was able to get the stitches out! I have a really cool frankenstien scar under my arm. I now have to go back to the surgeon on Monday and to then go to meet with the Oncologist on Tuesday. I guess this is going to be my career for a while.

My upper arm is numb a lot but other wise the pain is okay. I don't have to take anything and I am healing good, so I really can't complain. I am just really bummed about having to go for Chemo. I hate hats.... And how do I pick a wig when I don't even know what color my hair is???

Boo hoo.. poor me! Okay I will stop. I have to go check out Joe's new cell phone. It's those important things in life I must focus on.

Latest Surgeon Update

Just got back from the doctors, lunch and Shoprite. I am now ready to take a nap! I think I wore my parents out too. No, not really they were going to go to the movies.

Anyway, the surgeon said I am healing well but can not remove the drain yet :-( BUT... I can shower! Yeah! I have to go back on Thursday. He also said that I have stage two cancer and the tumor they took out was 3cm. The one lymph node that they knew had the cancer (from the biopsy results) was the only one they found. All the rest were clear.

So it is good news, but.... because of my age and the size of the tumor I have to go for both Radiation and Chemo. After he sees me again he will then send me to an Oncologist.

I asked if I could go back to work soon. He said that I shouldn't even think of that yet. I need to heal physically and mentally. Glad he said that because I was wondering why I couldn't think or concentrate.

Well it is way past nap time. Thanks for reading.

Beautiful Sunday Afternoon

It looks really nice out there but I hear it is very warm, so I am going back to sleep. Joe is going to go to his Dad's house to do his homework and Daniel is going to go to the Italian Festival in town. I was up watching senseless TV in the middle of the night so I think I will sleep now.

Yesterday Anthony and the kids came over and so did by buddy Denise and we went to my moms for Chinese food. It was nice to get out, but I missed my bed.

I have an appointment with the surgeon on Tuesday. He will take out the drain and let me know what the pathology reports say. I am hoping that I only have to deal with radiation. I really will not look good without my naturally curly hair!

Okay I have to sleep now, Chip is already snoring!

Friday Night

Okay, I am bored! I read two magazines, book and a bunch of web sites about cancer! That is in the last hour alone. No really it is not so bad. I have had many wonderful calls and emails from my friends and family. Mom and Dad have been here each day to help me do laundry and clean. Well that is Mom, Dad is outside doing something everyday. I think I got new cement somewhere today.

Daniel came home from school to check on me, played some violent shooting video game and then left to go to the movies with his brother and Dad. Joe came by on Wednesday. He turned 15 last week, so I don't expect too much.

As for how I feel I think I am still a little off from the anesthesia. I stopped taking the Oxycontin. Too scary! I am still really tired and very sore. My throat hurts and I feel like I got run over by a truck. But that is okay cause I can still type!

My babies are here keeping me company. Dotty my white cat with black spots, Alex, my little black cat and Chip, my 75lb baby. Who was barking at Aunt Chubby when she wanted to come in to talk to me yesterday. I think he just wanted a kiss from her.

Well must go see what's on prime time TV. Or maybe I will go do some on line shopping.

Doing Well - Thursday Morning

Hi all, I think I should make Denise keep blogging for me she did a great job. Made it home finally sometime yesterday and got some more sleep. They lied when they said I would be there for only a few hours. Anyway, things went well. I think there are two hole in me and some really gross drain thing. I have a sore throat too. Must be from the anesthesia. Didn't realize they were going to totally knock me out. They gave me the good drugs, so I think I will go back to sleep now. TV is too depressing today....



The boys came over last night they both stayed home from school yesterday because they were worried about me and convinced their dad that school was not a good idea. I send Joe home and told him he better get to school today. Dan slept here. He was so cute he gave me his mini fridge to put by my bed and figured out how to get a straw thru a water bottle. This morning I got up made him breakfast and got him to go to school. He did not feel good but I made him go. Grandpa drove him.



Well drugs are kicking in. Must go sleep. Thanks for all the prayers, Donna

4:45 PM Surgery Day

I spoke with Donna's mom, Rose. She said she is sleeping at the moment due to the nausea after surgery. Donna was given nausea medication to help settle her stomach which knocked her out. By her sleeping it is helping with the pain she is probably feeling.

Her doctor said all went well, but more test will need to be done on the lumpectomy/removed tissue areas.

After she wakes up from her nap, and her vitals are well enough, she will be released to come home. There is a very slim chance that she would need to stay overnight.

This will be my last entry on Donna's behalf. Thank you all for keeping Donna in your thoughts and prayers. And thank you dear Lord for watching over my "bestest" friend today.

Denise

2:50 PM Surgery Day

Donna is out of surgery and in recovery. Surgery went well and is currently receiving pain killer medication. That is all I can get out of the nurses.

In about a half hour she will moved to the same-day surgery floor and will be discharged from there. My personal guess is she will be home in time for dinner.

Denise

1:30 PM Surgery Day

I called the hospital to check on the status of Donna. The only information the cold, non-sympathetic receptionist in same-day surgery would tell me is she that is in surgery right now. I do not know what time she went in or how much longer it will be.

Imagine her not telling me, Donna's own "sister" her surgery status. (OK, I lied, but we are just like sisters.) I'll call back in a little while. Hopefully I will get a better person on the line.

Denise

10:30 AM - Surgery Day

Hello Donna's friends! Donna asked me to update all of her friends and love ones throughout the day until she is able to communicate back to all that have been wishing her well throughout her ordeal.

I just hung up with Donna at the hospital, she is still awaiting to go into her 8 AM surgery and it is now 10:30 AM. Seems the hospital is backlogged on operating rooms. Hopefully there will be a room available sometime before noontime.

I spoke briefly with her, we were both watching Rachael Ray, and she is in good spirits. At least the distraction of TV helps ease the anxiety. Donna even joked that at this time of the morning she would have been on her third cup of coffee. She is starting to have caffeine withdrawals, but we all know our gal is tough and will be home this afternoon and back to her own warm and caring self in no time.

Good luck and speedy recovery to Donna and her family during this trying time. And I will update her blog throughout the day as soon as I know anything new.

God Bless,
Denise Smith

Surgery Tomorrow!

Can't wait to get this over with! I am so tired. Can't sleep but tired. Tonight I went out with my boys. We had a nice dinner and they made me laugh by talking about some South Park episode where someone had cancer. I think they even mentioned a song about a tumor. Wait maybe it was Family Guy. Anyway they are mine and they keep me laughing.

Checking in the hospital tomorrow at 8. I hope to be home by 2. I just feel bad that my parents have to hang around all that time. At this point in my life, aren't I supposed to be taking care of them? Well I am happy I don't have to!

Daniel was supposed to go sleep at his Dad's house tonight but did not want to go. Kevin will just have to pick him up in the morning. Joe went home but gave me a big fat kiss and told me not to forget to mail his package before he left.

I am hoping to get this blog updated sometime tomorrow. Thank for all the good wishes, emails, calls and prayers. Love ya, Donna

Tuesday 9/8/08

I am creating this because I want to update my friends and family about my condition. I started a blog on my myspace page, but I heard that not everyone could see it.

Anyway, I am scheduled to have surgery on Wednesday. They are going to do a lumpectomy and take out some lymph nodes. Sounds scary, so that is why I try not to talk about it. Isn't that called denial?

I went for my pre-admission testing today. I better have passed the pregnancy test , or they will have to change my name to Mary. All that is going on, and they won't take my word that I could not be pregnant!

Trying to do everything I have been putting off for a while now. I just washed my shower curtain and I am thinking about painting the heater in my bathroom.

I even brought an automatic litter box but not sure if it is really working out. Dotty does not like it!

I have read just about every web site there is and there are more support groups then I know what to do with. My mother told me I better stop reading. I may be able to treat myself soon!

Well the good news is that Joe does not totally hate school and Daniel really likes it. He is even playing football. I can't wait to go to a game. I am so proud of him!! Go NORTH!