Tried and True

With the scary news, I didn't know what to do. My first call was to my wonderful original oncologist at Sloan Kettering. Her reaction was positive & encouraging. I immediately made an appt to see her.

Upon seeing her, I hugged her & cried. She spent an hour and a half with me to talk options that would maintain my quality of life. "Why give you toxic chemo that might not work? We'll always have that in our back pocket if we need it." Excellent point!

She helped me find clinical trials near me that she believes are promising. More than anything she offered HOPE! And that goes a long way!

This crazy, unfair journey

The latest....

I had another scan in May with the ALL CLEAR. Then in August, we move to Chicago. My TX oncologist recommended RUSH hospital. The first visit was not smooth & I was not happy. Since they were highly recommended I stayed. I had a scan in Oct. Liver & bone mets AGAIN. Really?!?!?

The consultation was like a bomb dropping. Mention of getting my ovaries out, 4 cm spot on my liver, multiple spots on my bones. I asked, "Where?" Wondering if they were new spots or growing old spots. They didn't have my scan. I'd get a copy later. Seriously, you destroy my world & don't have all the information to share with me. An exam & then told to get dressed because there is a lot to plan/discuss. Dr never came back. She sent in someone else. Again REALLY? Ports were mentioned, oopherectomy...all by a a complete stranger. Needless to say helplessness set in. Worries about my children. I am so angry and for the first time really scared.

New Lifestyle

I had a scan back in March & I am still all clear.  While the journey was brutal, I feel stronger & healthier than ever.

My new healthier life includes the following:

• Morning walks
• Matcha Green tea with Ginger
• Juicing
• Vegetarian
• Trying to help others going through treatment (advice, meals, must haves)

My juice of choice - Green Glow from The Gem.

• 5 kale leaves
• 1 lemon
• 1 cucumber
• 1 apple
• 1/2" ginger
• 1/2 jalapeno peppper (for a little kick)

One of my fave veggie meals: Spinach-Black Bean Lasagna

Here's to many more years of LIVING!

Cancer gift basket

I am a big proponent of helping fellow cancer fighters. When I hear someone else has been affected by this disease, I immediately start putting together the MUST HAVES for the process.

Now cwellness.com has a basket with all the essentials. Wow where was this when I was diagnosed. How great would it be if this were given out with the diagnosis!

Cancer gift basket

Stumblin' Stilettos

I am not a runner anymore but love the camaraderie of doing something together.  And so I entered the Stiletto Stampede.  It's a 100 yard dash in heels. I could not be more excited & the ladies who are joining me will make the event PRICELESS.

My husband came up with Struttin' Stilettos but somehow I can't see us strutting runway style. Dear friend SB came up with Stumblin' Stilettos.  Yes that's more apropo.  Not sure if it's the balance issues on heels or that we are stumbling around on our Mom's Nights Out. Either way it works!

Daisy Love

Daisy Love is my friend's niece.  This sweet, brave girl battled cancer, a Wilm's tumor from the age of 5.  

While I never met her, I felt connected to her as I do to anyone who is diagnosed with cancer.  I wept for her when she endured chemo & shared in her joy of clean scans.  And when her cancer returned, I again ached for her parents & family.  I was hopeful as she journeyed to Israel for progressive treatment.  I imagined all she would experience & achieve in her life.  And sadly on February 16, 2013, Daisy went to heaven. 

Upon reading those words, I could not control the tears.  This wonderful 8 year old girl had her life before her & I felt crushed, helpless.  It was an all too real reminder that as I continue my own battle, I must live each day in the present, show my kids all my love because I never know how this life will unfold.  

Watching the memorial service, I was calmed.  This little girl connected the world in her fight & life. Prayfordaisy highlighted her journey of living & it was amazing.  

Third Times the Charm

It has been a while since I posted.  Here's what's happening since my last post:

- Clean scan in March 2012
- Hello Femara!
- Family trips to Europe (Paris, Nice, Barcelona & London) & Hawaii
- Another move closer to boys schools
- Bout with Pneumonia
- Diagnosis of Adult onset Asthma
- And saving best for last...(drum roll please) In November 2012, Liver Mets resurfaced!

Since our move, I also needed an oncologist closer to our home.  After extensive research, I found her!
I was immediately put back on oral Xeloda (Wonder Drug) & some talk of IV treatment.  As a mom, I want to try to maintain a 'normal' appearance for the kids.  I opted to just take Xeloda. For me, the only side effect I have is fatigue.  After adjusting my activities & juicing like crazy, I am still able to do carpool, play dates & the occasional night out.