Gastric Bypass

Hi Beth I'm so sorry your leaving.I'm not sure whom you are saying
this to.But I hope That I didn't say something or do something wrong
to make you leave.If it's me becuz I can't spell good sorry.I not a
high school graduate and all I want was someone that would help me
and through this Plus read & learn how people are going and makeing
the surgery work also about what could happen and what is the best
to keep me healthly.I'm Just so sorry.Take care and God Bless and
Thanks if your one whom has help me this far.a friend debkroll of
Iowa,Surgery date Aug.18,2003,Wt# 357.5/?/ and counting
down.

I guess I will just Unsubscribe again & stay off these group lists this time. A
couple of Very sweet & thoughtful people talked me into coming back to join--&
those of you who did thanx for the support but e-mails like this is why I get
so mad & hurt because of Mean & Hateful Responses like this!! But anyone
who wants to keep on e-mailing me for support & has been & will be a little
nicer feel free to Ladiebugg_105@... But e-mails Like this
one

You guys have so great, I thought I'd tap into this great support
system yet again.....Actually talk to my surgeon (HIMSELF) today. He
told me that what I was experiencing, nausea, pain 8 hrs after I eat
something, was mostly likely gallbladder attacks. I go for all the
tests early next week. He finally ordered some meds for pain and
nausea. He probably prevented a suicide (just a little humor).
Anyway, my question is, did anyone have this problem post-op and what
happened? I know if not for this, I would feel great!...........Jen
from CA
5 1/2 weeks post RnY
Lap

Congraduation Joel.Glad to hear you had a great stay in the hospital
and home so fast and sounds like healing fast too.God Bless and way
to go your on the losing way.I see you have aready lost a little
wt.Take care and talk soon.a friend debkroll of Iowa,Surgery Date
Aug.18,2003,Wt#
357.5./?/?

Dear Joyce,
Ask your surgeon (or find another one) to put a greenfield filter into you.
Where I am (New Jersey) it's a very common occurrence in WLS patients who
are prone to blood clots. The filter goes into your vena cava and blocks
the clot from traveling. I'm surprised your surgeon hasn't recommended this
for you. They have filters that they can put in prior to surgery and remove
later, or you can have one implanted permanently. Type "greenfield filter"
into your browser and you can learn all about it. I wish you luck in your
pursuit of surgery.
live each day like it's your last... love like you've never been hurt...
Deb in Hazlet, NJ
"Debbie Dancer"
distal rny
September 3, 2002
386/235/160
BMI 60/34.7/24
-151
-69.5"
Angel to Bill (8/14/03), Debbie (waiting for a date) Ilene, Roy, and Ro

I'm sorry I get the digest and I couldn't remember who posted this.
I didn't want to reply to the digest because of everything posting
with it. I have been a lurker on this group and I don't respond
very often but this really bothered me. I think that everyone
should have the opportunity for surgery.
I was in a support group meeting last month with a lady who gets
blood clots. She had one 5 years ago. We have Kaiser but she went
through Pacific Bariatric in San Diego for her surgery. They made
her get something put in her leg that would catch any blood clots
after surgery. That was the only thing she had to do. She just had
the surgery and everything was fine. She is 7 weeks out and doing
good. Don't let this surgeon discourage you. Keep looking. I don't
know what insurance you have and how stuck you are with going to
another one but what he said about no one operating on you is NOT
TRUE. He just doesn't want to risk it. You may be able to have
someone else do it with this catch thing. I can't remeber what she
called it but it was like a strainer that they put in her groin to
catch any blood clots. I think she has had it removed now after
surgery. Kaiser put it in before she went down for the surgery.
Rachel

Thank you for answering me. I printed this out to give to my husband who is sick
with worry over this surgery. After the doctor told me he wasn't going to give
me the surgery. I have did alot of writing for answers to this. My family doctor
and I are looking for another doctor for this. I already paid this doctor for
the operation. My insurance will pay 100 % if done this month. So I REALLY DO
WANT IT DONE. I have this feeling that I am going to die if I don't have this
done. I really don't have fears about this operation only I have to wear a c-pap
after surgery. I really want to be reborn again. I want the real me to come out
of this shell. The phy doctor ask me what my goals was when I lose the weight
and I yelled I am going to LIVE. I am going to do things I real really want to
do.
Joyce
bastianmagoozer <bastianmagoozer@...
I'm sorry I get the digest and I couldn't remember who posted this.
I didn't want to reply to the digest because of everything posting
with it. I have been a lurker on this group and I don't respond
very often but this really bothered me. I think that everyone
should have the opportunity for surgery.
I was in a support group meeting last month with a lady who gets
blood clots. She had one 5 years ago. We have Kaiser but she went
through Pacific Bariatric in San Diego for her surgery. They made
her get something put in her leg that would catch any blood clots
after surgery. That was the only thing she had to do. She just had
the surgery and everything was fine. She is 7 weeks out and doing
good. Don't let this surgeon discourage you. Keep looking. I don't
know what insurance you have and how stuck you are with going to
another one but what he said about no one operating on you is NOT
TRUE. He just doesn't want to risk it. You may be able to have
someone else do it with this catch thing. I can't remeber what she
called it but it was like a strainer that they put in her groin to
catch any blood clots. I think she has had it removed now after
surgery. Kaiser put it in before she went down for the surgery.
Rachel

hey amanda, i am 25 years old and i just had gastric bypass last nov. it is the
best thing i have ever done-- it is normal to be scared, i just knew i was going
to die or be sick for the rest of my life, but after you wake up and recover a
few days, you will be sooooo happy that you went through with it. my weight was
275lbs and today i weigh 138---well worth it. I am not going to lie to you and
tell you that it was and still is easy, but if you just do what your surgeon
tells you to do and make intelligent, informed decisions about what to eat and
what not to eat---you will be ok. don't rush it and take it slow!!!! now i am
able to run and play with my 2 year old niece and have hope of having my own
children one day! it is time for you to start living and loving life again! you
will be surprised at how fast you lose the weight!

Hi, Kathy!
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your GF. There are no easy answers.
I know when I went into surgery it was with the full knowledge that I might die.
It wasn't an easy choice but I did have that understanding. She will remain in
my thoughts.
Diana

I'm so sorry things did not go well. This is such a serious and risky
surgery. I agree with you, there are so many miracle surgery stories
out there and you rarely hear about the bad ones. I know, personally,
the recovery problems were never well defined to me and my questions
are never really answered when I do ask my surgeons office. I think
better pre op education and risk education is absolutely necessary.
You have my prayers and best wishes for you GF recovery. Jen from CA

I suffer from nausea from time to time. I am 5 1/2 weeks post op and
have found that when the nausea first starts if I eat 1/2 a soda
cracker (chew up finely) or my personal favorite 3-4 Pepperidge
Farms "Baby Fish" crackers do to trick and settle everything down.
Jen from Ca

Hi,
I know no one knows me here, but I posted here about 6mths ago asking
advice for my girlfriend that was going to have the gastric bypasss
surgery.
Well, last Thursday, she had the surgery, the dr. came out and told
us that she was fine. Then a few hours later, she had a procecure
done where they put a scope in her to check her out from the inside,
i'm not really sure what the procedure was called. Soon after that
she started vomiting blood, she started bleeding through her staples
and her old stomach ruptured. She had her LAPNY, but since she was
bleeding internally they rushed her back into surgery and opened her
up. They manage to stop the bleeding but she lost a lot of blood.
She almost drowned on her own blood. This was early Friday morning,
about 1:am, they said she was pretty bad and didn't think she was
going to make it through the night.
At the current time she's in critical condition, she has been this
way for a whole week now. Her lungs are 100% not working on their
own, she's on a venilator and the drs aren't telling us why. Her
kidneys aren't working as well, shes on dialysis right now, so move
the fluids through her body and to clean her blood.
This is just a mess! I'm so scared for her! What the heck went
wrong? Why are there so many miracles stories where everything went
fine and my GF has to go through this? I just want her to live and
recover!
I haven't spoken to that many people who have had the surgery, have
you heard of anything like this happening to anyone else?
Thanks for letting me vent.
Kathy

Thanks for the info about the pills. Will make a world of diffrence.
Thank you so much! Jen from CA

Hi Jen,
I'm almost 4 weeks post-op and I had trouble with Percocet pills
(whole) while I was in the hospital (after they took out my IV's on
day 3 I just couldn't swallow it, I choked). I was on liquid
Percocet for that day, however once I was home I was able to take
the pills whole and not had to crush them. So for me it was 4 days
post-op when I was able to take whole pills and haven't had trouble
with anything since. I hope this helps you.
Take care,
Beth
LAP RNY 7/18/03
339/302/150-175 (around there)

Hi Everybody
Can any of those who are postop tell me when you started taking whole
pills instead of crushing! I'm sure the protocols are diffrent but
I'm looking for just a general idea. Thanks so much. I'm finding
what you all to say is so helpful. Jen from CA

I was never instructed to crush my pills. If pills were big, I was told I could
use a pill splitter and take the halves of the pill.
I will be 8 weeks post-op tomorrow. :-)

Hi everyone. I am so excited. I had surgery on July 23rd. All
went routine as my doctor described to my wife. 1 1/2 hr surgery
and 1 hr to close me up. No staples...sewed me up from the
inside...fully healed already and no complications. I am on the
losing side and feeling awesome. My care was tremendous and Mayo,
Rochester MN. All of it. I was on my wifes floor ICU for the first
day and honestly the most uncomfortable thing was the NG tube and
the drain, when they pulled that out...I thought my guts were coming
with. But that lasted for a whole 20 seconds that felt like an
hour...but good news was that was my last day in the hospital.
Only a five day stay. I was home and had trouble adjusting the
first few days...had to learn to eat slow and take my time...3 tbls
is not a lot but you HAVE to take your time..cramping will occur...I
promise if you don't. Every day it got better and better and
better.
Walking was the key. I am up to 3.3 miles already and am back to
work as of last Monday. I know slow down and take it easy. Have no
choice...employer is !$#@!%#$@. I am feeling A-W-E-S-O-M-E to quote
my favorite late actor...Chris Farley.
Well here is the tale of the tape. Love you all.
Joel
Open RNY 7/23/03
408/372/210
down already 36 lbs.

Hi Kimmie,
I'm always sick also. There is nothing that I can eat (even yogart and jello)
that makes me feel good! I just eat a little of whatever, mashed potatoes, soup
whatever creamy crap I can get a hold of. As for your fever and chills, it
seems to me that since I had the surgery, I'm always cold and I'm always running
a low grade fever. I could not take my chewable vitamins because they'd make me
gag, so I got some One A Day Esstentials; they are small and I can swallow
easily. I take my meds whole because I gag if I crush them and down with with
anything! So, don't feel like the Lone Ranger, I'm sure there are plenty of us
feeling the same way! Good Luck!
Rosario
Kimmie Nease <moongarden1971@...
Has anyone here been sick since their WLS? I'm so sick today, I have a high
fever, chills, the whole 9 yards.
It is NOT related to WLS, but what on earth am I suppose to do? What can I
drink to help myself feel better? Can I have OJ? I don't want water, it
makes me want to throw up.
HELP!
Kimmie

In a message dated 8/14/2003 8:27:09 AM Central Standard Time,
wlslori@... writes:
Wolfie
Pre-Op
Leeds, Alabama
Surgery Date-August 27th
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt

Has anyone here been sick since their WLS? I'm so sick today, I have a high
fever, chills, the whole 9 yards.
It is NOT related to WLS, but what on earth am I suppose to do? What can I
drink to help myself feel better? Can I have OJ? I don't want water, it
makes me want to throw up.
HELP!
Kimmie

it's the greenfield filter, i believe. & congrats on your date,
wolfie!!!!
lori h.

In a message dated 8/14/2003 8:13:13 AM Central Standard Time,
wlslori@... writes:
prevent clots after surgery from moving into the heart and lungs etc. I cannot
remember the name but surely this could help you. I would also check into
another doctor myself.
Wolfie
Pre-Op
Leeds, Alabama
Surgery Date-August 27th
Dr. Lee A. Schmitt

TO EVERYONE.......
DO CARBONATED DRINKS STRETCH OUR POUCHES? IF THEY DO, I'LL NEVER DRINK ANOTHER
MINERAL WATER AGAIN! I DRINK THIS BCSE IT HELPS ME BURP WHEN I FEEL SICK!
WOULD APPRECIATE RESPONSES!
THANX, ROSARIO
"Debora A.Kroll" <debkroll212003@...
Hi Mel & Rosario I see you drink mineral Water is that a better tap
water?I was a Pop nut but after read from you and others,how it can
make your stomach stretch. I'm staying away from that.SO I'm looking
of what I can drink that will not hurt me.I'm not much for Juices.I
know theres protein drinks but I'm just going to have surgery next
Monday and don't you have to wait awhile after surgery to drink
that? a friend debkroll of Iowa,Surgery date Aug.18,2003,Wt #
365/?/waiting.

welcome. your nerves are understandable, hopefully your doc has plenty
of revision experience. where are you located, this will help find
you an angel.
lori h.

Types of Breast Cancer
<http://www.diseasesndiagonsis.com/breast-cancer/types-of-breast-cancer.\
htm
It is important to understand some of the key words used to describe
different types of breast cancer. It is not unusual for a single breast
tumor to be a combination of these types and to have a mixture of
invasive and in situ cancer.

By the way, I knit preemie caps and booties for our local hospital. If
anyone wants my pattern for the preemie hat and a link to the bootie pattern,
please e-mail me privately. _JoanIWilson2@..._
(mailto:JoanIWilson2@...)
.
Hugs,
Joan
JoanIWilson2@...
Knitting, Smocking and Sewing
For Dolls and Premature Babies
**************Gas prices getting you down? Search AOL Autos for
fuel-efficient used cars.
(http://autos.aol.com/used?ncid=aolaut00050000000007)

Hey Everyone,
Well the drains are out. I sure am glad nobody told me in advance what
that was going to feel like or they would end up being a permanent part
of my body!!!! That hurt like HELL!!! But today I am feeling much
better. I know I have been trying to do too much cause by afternoon I
am exhausted and require a pain pill and a nap. So, as of today and
for the next few days I promise to sit and do NOTHING. This way my
daugher will stop yelling at me and Ron will Stop trying to make me go
to bed (not for any fun). Thanks for all your prayers and for being in
the O.R. with me. I felt you there as I went to sleep and as I woke up
I knew you had kept all the docs and nurses in line for me.
Hugs,
Sandi
P. S. Nappy time now

Hey everyone, Well I got through the surgery ok. Stayed in the hosp
for 2 nights and was kicked out on Friday. Went home and got into bed
wondering what the hell did I do to myself!!! Pain is not the exact
word I could use but holy shit!!! I HURT!!! It's a dull achy pain so
it's not like I cant take it. The pain just wears me out. I spend
alot of time sleeping and taking my Vicadin every 4-6 hours. I have 4
drains and I have learned how to empty, measure and keep the tubes
clean. I just wanted to pop in and tell you guys I'm doing ok.
Hugs,
Sandi

HELLO TO ALL MY BEAUTIFUL FRIENDS HERE
how are you all doing today?
I hope that you are all doing wonderfully
hope that whatever stag in treatment or not that you are in I hope
that you are all getting the very best support and love that you need
to get back to 100% you are all necessary and you are loved here
what wonderful things did you do for yourself day so that you can
better yourself so in turn you can be a blessing to others?
I hope that you are all doing well no mater what.
I am here for you not physically but via email and letters I love
you all so much
I am doing fabulous here in rome new york I just finished working at
clarkmills firemen fielddays.
I had 2 double hamburgers they were alright not at good as the
deerfield firemens fielddays hamburgers now they were to die for
burgers.
the pizza I had at the clarmills fielddays was yuckie.
I have had much better pizza than that but that is alright.
we got rained on ever so briefly and I was so thankful for that I
didnt tell my boss that she would have put her foot up my butt she
prefers no rain for our line of work :)
but it did cool me off alot. and then the clouds and rain were gone
as fast as they came. we had a fairly good turn out the 3 days we
worked
this coming week I am off which will be good because july 2-6 we are
in oswego new york sandy creek fielddays its going to be the busiest
time for us we will be bused back and forth and the bus ride will be
murder on my kneeds :) but the job is worth it. I love working for
Hawkins.
there will be so many people there with their crafts and food and
music and live stock there are some really beautiful cattle that
come to that fielddays. they take really good care of their animals.
yes I know that I am rambling sorry
well this email has gotten long enough so I will stop
please take care of yourselves
you are necessary
your sister friend
rebecca kurowski
513 N Washington st apt 3
rome new york 13440

Hello! Im wilma,36 and single,i was diagnosed may 7 that i have idc, stage 2a
breast cancer,i dont know how to deal with it at first but tru prayers i throw
all my fears to Jehovah God and decided to go on to a proper treatments,i've
done my MRM last may 27, and my first chemo is maybe next week.I am afraid but i
have a courage to do it knowing that it will not happened only to me and they
are all survived.i need guys your encouragement words to have more strength that
i have so im hoping to hear it from you soon!

Tomorrow is the Big Day. I will be admitted at 6:30am and have
nuclear mapping done at 7am, then surgery at 10am. I am ready to go
all packed and anxious to get in and get it over with.
So, I said I was not going to do this by myself, make sure you are
packed and ready to go tomorrow morning cause each and everyone of
you are going with me!!
Thank you so much for your support and love over the last few
months. I am amazed that I found a support group (on line) that
could make this whole DCIS thing easier for me. Now with a bilateral
tomorrow, I have no fear!! I am ready to go...
You dont think it is "drugs" do you!! They upped my Lexapro last
month. Since then everything is perfect and
wonderful.....HMMMMMMMM???
I will be taking each of you with me tomorrow. And I will check in
when I get home.
Hugs
Sandi

Hi everyone,
I am home and resting after surgery yesterday and will meet with
surgeon June 23rd to discuss results. I want to thank everyone for
their warm wishes, prayers and concern. You have been a great source
of comfort and encouragement.
Thank you & God bless,
kaylie

Thank You Peggy....She starts her chemo on the 26th of June...I don't
know all the meds that she is going to be on but I guess it is going to
a few...he also put her on high blood pressure pills...`I get sad as
she has always worked hard all her life...she has been here for me when
I went through my surgery and brought me flowers the night that I came
home....she has been here also when I shattered my ankle...just the
smile from her made me feel so much better...she is always thinking of
others first...her co-workers and her boss have been fantastic to
her....they went out and bought her a bandana for her head and when she
opened it up it was the "Yankees"....she just looked at them all and
said" I'm not wearing that"....they all know that she is a big Red Sox
Fan....they really got her...they did get her the Boston one....she is
really well liked no matter where she goes she's just that kind of
person...and the most important one to be in our lives who has been
there for us is our Dad....I'll tell ya he should of went crazy by now
from us 4 girls...2 of us having BC...and the other 2 with just their
personal problems....just wanted to get things out and it does make you
feel alot better doing that,,,thanks all for being here...I'll say a
prayer for everyone...Hugs to all...Marge

Soft cotton knit blouses that button up the front? I went to Mervyns
yesterday and all I could find were sports wear hoodys with zippers.
They are not really very attractive and my PS tells me that I'm really
going to need them after surgery on Wednesday next week.
Anybody else have this problem and solve it?
HELP!!
Sandi

Hi Everyone,
I need to let you all know that Gail quit the group...I haven't
written as I have been busy with my own life as we all have...but I
have been on reading your wonderful letters of encouragement to each
other ..she got upset with me as I wouldn't approve all of her
letters...when I joined this group we all talked about everything and I
hope we still do...life is to short to be yelling about this and that
and saying that she is tired of my crap...I don't encourage others who
come in send letters to buy things that have nothing to do with
BC.....I do the best that I can...I know that I have been upset about
my sister having Breast Cancer but I haven't taken it out in
group...she is in stage 3 come to find out...and yes I am going to be
there for her when I can...and also I have been busy with my garden...I
love to plant vegtables...can't buy any tomatoes in the store so I had
to plant some...everything is going up and people can't afford to buy
alot so if anyone wants to sell here it will be rejected...just had to
let you all know....thanks so much for listening...Marge

Thousand of women dead with Breast Cancer daily in Pakistan
<http://www.helplineforcancer.com/

Jo, I grapple with this a lot also. I am almost a 4 year survivor and I have
found that being at home all day makes my mind wander where I don't want it
to. As time goes on, the fear will lessen faster if you keep as busy as
possible. I tell myself that I'm not going to let the fear overtake me because I
am not a negative, 'what if' type of person like my husband is, and I just go
on with my life because my oncologist told me that I have a less than 3%
chance it will come back.
Gail
**************Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with
Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.
(http://food.aol.com/tyler-florence?video=4?&NCID=aolfod00030000000002)

Visit
http://www.helplineforcancer.com/?p=30

I guess it is time to stop pretending and bring something out into the
open. I simply cannot find a way to go beyond the fear. I am terrified
of the prospect of the cancer returning. It has been a year and a half
since diagnosis and surgery, and so far everything is fine. You would
think I would be relieved as time goes by. But I'm not. I'm taking my
Femara every day and tolerating it well. I'm eating organically, losing
weight, and to the extent that I can with my severe arthritis I am
exercising. And I meditate regularly.
But sometimes the fear is so overwhelming I have to give in and take
extra anti-anxiety meds. I have generalized anxiety disorder as it is,
and it is will controlled with medication. But there are days when the
fear just rises up and takes over.
I thought it would receded with time, but instead it seems to be
growing. I do have a support group, and frankly they are of no help.
They all seem to be charter members of the "oh just get over it" club.
How do you deal with it?
--
Shoshana -- but you can call me Jo
Join Operation Backpack and make a difference in a homeless vet's life.
Read about it at http://www.justjosmidden.blogspot.com

Hi Sandi
Had a bilateral mastec November 2006 No pain afterwards at all, just the drain
is
difficult because it has to be taken care of for about a week. You will be shown
how before
you leave the hospital. Never had any pain since the surgery mostly you feel
numb, no feeling, which is strange. I had a hard time getting used to seeing
myself but other than that no problem.
I know it is scarey, and I remember crying before my surgery because I Didn't
want to have it done, but got through with no problem. Had a lot of prayers and
did a lot of praying. Keep a positive
attitude, it helps more than anything. Keep friends with upbeat people and shy
away for doom and gloomers. Nobody knows how you feel now and how you will feel
afterward. It is up to you but with the help of friends and loved ones you will
do fine. The women and men on this site are a wonderful
group. They will help you a lot, they have all gone through breast cancer too.
Keep smiling.
We care. Let us know how you are doing.
Mary

What to Expect...
In two weeks, June 18th, I will be going into the hospital for a
bilateral mastectomy. I am getting nervous and I know that is normal.
But I do not know what to expect. What is nuclear mapping? Does it
hurt? When I wake up, what is the pain level? How soon will I be able
to get up and around? How long does it hurt? Is it like the
lumpectomy and nothing but a dull ache after a couple of days? That I
can live with. Please if anyone has been there and done that, give me
some input. It's the not knowing that is making me nuts.
Sandi

CANCER
Cancer is a class of diseases or disorders characterized by uncontrolled
division of cells and the ability of these cells to invade other tissues...
http://www.helplineforcancer.com/

to everyone here you are such beautiful loving caring people
I hope that you all had such a glorious day today
I hope that whatever you are going through will not defeat you but make
you stronger
you are beautiful each and everyone of you.
I am hugging each of you.
you are all necessary to me
love you all
rebecca

Seromas are usually drained because the fluid can become infected. If it's
small, it will reabsorb. Sometimes people get them when the drain is taken out
a few days too soon.
Gail Neuman RNC CPHW (BC survivor since 8/04)
student midwife and student nurse practitioner
certified high risk OB/OB legal consultant
Perinatal Nurse Associates
801 N. Tustin Ave., Suite 305
Santa Ana, CA 92705
"God doesn't require us to succeed; he only requires that you try."
--_Mother Teresa_
(http://nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/peace/laureates/1979/teresa-bio.html)
**************Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with
Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.
(http://food.aol.com/tyler-florence?video=4&?NCID=aolfod00030000000002)

this must have been written for me:
High-dose vitamin D relieves pain and fatigue associated with aromatase
inhibitor therapy
June 1 â Chicago â High-dose vitamin D supplementation can provide relief of
symptoms related to vitamin D deficiency from aromatase inhibitor therapy in
postmenopausal women with breast cancer, said Q.J. Khan, MD, Cancer Center
of Kansas, Wichita.
Approximately one-fourth of women with invasive breast cancer who receive
adjuvant aromatase inhibitors experience joint pain or stiffness. Approximately
one-fourth also report fatigue during treatment with an aromatase inhibitor.
Vitamin D deficiency is a potential cause of the musculoskeletal pain in
women who are taking aromatase inhibitors.
(http://listmgr.advanstar.com/t/6668918/102431924/797055/0/)
_http://geriatrics.modernmedicine.com/geriatrics/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=52\
0457_
(http://geriatrics.modernmedicine.com/geriatrics/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=52\
0457)
**************Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with
Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.
(http://food.aol.com/tyler-florence?video=4&?NCID=aolfod00030000000002)

Interesting new research presented at the meeting-ask your medical provider
about this:
Adjuvant Zoledronic Acid Decreases Breast Ca Recurrence in Premenopausal
Women
May 31 â Chicago â Adding zoledronic acid to anastrozole or tamoxifen
therapy decreased recurrence by 35% and increased disease free survival by 36%
in
premenopausal breast cancer patients, according to results of the Austrian
Breast and Colorectal Cancer Study Group Trial 12 (ABCSG-12). The multicenter,
Phase III trial is the first large trial to demonstrate the significant
antitumor benefit of zoledronic acid, said Michael Gnant, MD, Medical
University of
Vienna. "Adjuvant treatment with zoledronic acid should be considered in
order to improve the standard of care in premenopausal breast cancer patients,"
he said.
Read the rest here:
_http://geriatrics.modernmedicine.com/geriatrics/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=
520313_
(http://geriatrics.modernmedicine.com/geriatrics/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=52\
0313)

I found out what the official diagnosis is for the fluid build up at
the surgical site, it's called Seroma, a build up of normal fluid at
the surgical site. Apparently this is rather common and looks like
there isn't much that can be done to prevent or reduce it. Just have
to have it drained if it gets too uncomfortable and wait for things to
heal. Not too encouraging but not dangerous unless it gets way out of
hand.
carol j

Hi Everyone,
thought i'd let you know how she is doing....she had more surgery
yesterday...they took out more of the mass in her breast and then put
in the port for the Chemo...She is T-2 -No.. Invasive ..I asked my
doctor and she said stage 3...she will find out next week when she
will start her treatments..it's hard on all of us..I found out that she
is having a hard time paying her co-pays...will the Cancer Society help
at all??....she has worked so hard all of her life..she worked 2 jobs
for years just to help put her step-son through college along with her
other kids..well going to go and God Bless Everyone...you all take
care...Hugs...Marge

my name is rebecca kurowski
I got an email last night from a man named chuck telling me that he was
sending me a card or address where I can send my cards I make but I
cannot find him is there a man named chuck here ?
I would like very much to send hand made cards to the american cancer
society but need ideas I dont know if anyone read my last post.
looking for imput
you are all necessary
thank you so much
rebecca

Staging of Lung Cancer
The stage of a cancer tells the doctor how far a cancer has spread. It is
important because treatment is often decided according to the stage of a cancer.
All staging for cancer includes information on the size of the tumour, whether
there is cancer in the lymph nodes and whether the cancer has spread anywhere
else.
http://www.helplineforcancer.com/?p=23

It's been 3 weeks since surgery (mod radical w/multiple nodes removed)
and a week since the last drain came out. Now, because the drain is
gone, the swelling has started under my arm and along the incision on
my breast. I went to the doctor today to have some of the fluid
aspirated but there is still quite a bit remaining. I asked the
surgeon if there were any message exercises that could be done to help
relieve some of the edema and he said there were none. Has anyone else
had to deal with this and if so, did you get any help from your
physicians or anyone else? I've been doing some reading about
lymphedema message and it seems there should be some way to either
relieve or reduce the amount of swelling without needing to have a
needle poked into my armpit all the time or worse yet, having a drain
again. The needle wasn't painful but it's almost an hour drive each
way to the dr's office and really, really don't want to have to deal
with that drain again.
carol j

got this in an email today:
Triple Negative Breast Cancer
A free telephone education workshop for women living with triple negative
breast cancer, their families, friends and health care professionals will be
held on Wednesday, June 4, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EDT. To register for
this workshop online go to _www.cancercare.org_
(http://r.smartbrief.com/resp/liywdvosnwzpvFsrTX) or call 800-813-HOPE (4673).
Gail
**************Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with
Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.
(http://food.aol.com/tyler-florence?video=4&?NCID=aolfod00030000000002)

I accidently deleted this message so I am resending I
am sorry.
Peggy

Very touching post, Rebecca. A good way to help our troops right now is to
support them by 'adopting' an individual service member and sending them
exactly what they need by going to _www.supportasoldier.org_
(http://www.supportasoldier.org) or _www.anysoldier.com_
(http://www.anysoldier.com) It was in
our local newspaper recently and I am going to do it next week. They sacrifice
so much for our country.
Gail
**************Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with
Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.
(http://food.aol.com/tyler-florence?video=4&?NCID=aolfod00030000000002)

Hello Mr. Simon,
I'm Bea del Rosario and I live in Muntinlupa City, Philippines. My house hold
help, my yaya, Bebeng Ditchella had 2nd stage breast cancer a year back. I've
been trying to find her a support group ever since. She's in that kind of
dilemma that she thinks that she's super weak (every part of her body hurts),
but she's actually healthy as the doctors would put it after completing a full
body check up.
I think she just needs someone to inspire her that there is a purpose for going
through what she went through. It's kind of hard because she is the first person
in her family that had breast cancer. I really think that it's all in the mind.
Every time I take her out, she becomes stronger. The problem is, I'm still in
College so I couldn't attend to her everyday.
I hope that someone can recommend me a support group near the place where I
live. I truly appreciate it.
I don't know what else to do. Please help her.
Sincerely,
Bea del Rosario
0917-5009862
Bee Sweets
Enjoy Life's Sweet Surprises

Hello to you all
Memorial day is a very special day we must never forget those who have lost
their lives and those who are still keeping us safe over seas and those here in
our homeland
our troops are our brothers sisters fathers and mothers sons and daughters
they must never ever be forgotten
they are necessary
we love you
you will never be forgotten
i hope you all have a glorious Memorial day as you spend time together I hope
that the weather will be glorious for each and everyone of you
you are all necessary
thank you so much
rebecca

Cervical cancer
<http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/cervical-cancer/overvie\
w.html?inline=nyt-classifier
detected early by Pap smears, kills 33,000 women in Latin America and
the Caribbean a year, according to a new study. Better screening and an
affordable vaccine for girls could reduce the deaths, which could
increase to 70,000 a year by 2030 if nothing is done, the authors said.
For more informations please follow This Link!
<http://cancerwarning.blogspot.com/

OCs, HT not linked with second breast cancer in survivors
May 21, 2008
Contemporary OB/GYN Newsline
Women who have had breast cancer appear to face little risk of a cancer in
the other breast due to oral contraceptive or postmenopausal hormone therapy
use, according to research published in the March 20 issue of the Journal of
Clinical Oncology.
Jane C. Figueiredo, of the University of Southern California in Los Angeles,
and colleagues analyzed data from 708 women with a history of asynchronous
bilateral breast cancer (who represented cases) and 1,395 control women with
unilateral breast cancer. The researchers collected information on women's
medical history, hormone use, and other factors.
OC use before or after first breast cancer diagnosis wasn't significantly
associated with asynchronous bilateral breast cancer risk, nor was
postmenopausal hormone use before or after breast cancer diagnosis significantly
associated with increased risk. The investigators found that duration of use of
either type was also not associated with risk.
"These findings have important clinical implications for women with breast
cancer. Although current clinical guidelines do not recommend that women with a
history of breast cancer use oral contraceptives or postmenopausal hormones,
results from this large observational study, combined with those from other
observational studies and from clinical trials, suggest that use of these
exogenous hormone preparations does not increase the risk of second breast
primaries."
Figueiredo JC, Bernstein L, Capanu M, et al. Oral contraceptives,
postmenopausal hormones, and risk of asynchronous bilateral breast cancer: the
WECARE
Study Group. J Clin Oncol. 2008;26:1411-1418.
_http://contemporaryobgyn.modernmedicine.com/obgyn/OCs-HT-not-linked-with-seco
nd-breast-cancer-in-sur/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518300_
(http://contemporaryobgyn.modernmedicine.com/obgyn/OCs-HT-not-linked-with-second\
-breast-cance
r-in-sur/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518300)
Gail
**************Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with
Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.
(http://food.aol.com/tyler-florence?video=4&?NCID=aolfod00030000000002)

Hello
my name is rebecca kurowski I just joined your group
I am 46 years old, I had a breast exam back in 2005 I think I forget
because one night I discovered a large lunp in my breast I told my
husband and then I went to the hospital and they refered me to a
doctor who did an exam a bioci was done and they said that it was
not in the lymph nodes which was good and that it was just in the
milk ducts and that it was through out the breast so instead of
having to go back several times they thought it best to take the
breast it was in the early stages of precancer so I didnt really
think I could say I was a breast cancer survivor since I have not
gone through anything compared to what other women have gone
through.
it didnt phase me that I was losing my breast I didnt feel anything.
I am not making light of other women their situation is different and
I had thought to go to counseling but I didnt because I didnt think I
needed to. I guess I am missing a few brain cells.
I used to take care of a woman who had her breast removed.
I dont know why I am here though maybe if I can be alittle sunshine
when someone is feeling low or just wants to chat with someone.
I have been trying to figure out what I can do through my art I am an
artist and I would love to make some cards or something and give them
to a cancer group to see if they can sell them I dont have any money.
if I have offened anyone with this post I am truelly sorry I didnt
mean to offend anyone.
you are all necessary
you are beautiful women never let anyone tell you differently
you have purpose
your new friend
rebecca

Hello Everyone,
I haven't posted in a long time. I've been the silent member who reads
everyones posting and I have you in my prayers. This info is useful
because some of my lymph nodes were positive as well now I'm going to
go talk to my doctor about this. Lissa-- In

Teresa, sorry to hear you're feeling so crummy but like the doctor said,
there is light at the end of the tunnel.Try to take care of yourself with small
treats, like an ice cream cone, pedicure, glass of wine, etc. and tell
yourself that this too shall pass.
Gail
**************Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with
Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.
(http://food.aol.com/tyler-florence?video=4&?NCID=aolfod00030000000002)

Hi everyone,
Don't even know where to start really....Monday was #11 taxol of 12. I'm glad
to be almost done with them, honestly its been pretty easy. I just now am
getting a little numbness in my toes from neuropathy, not bad for having only
one more treatment to go. My fingernails are horrible, I will probably loose a
couple. After treatment 6, my hair fell out AGAIN. I have to say I was pretty
mad about that. About 2 weeks ago the bone/muscle pain got a little worse, have
to take lortabs for about 2 days. Its weird because most women told me the pain
was worse in the legs and hips, my rib cage is by far the worse...I hate it.
But compared to the A/C this stuff was a walk in the park.
I also was unblinded last week in the clinical study I was on with Avastin. I
am getting the real stuff and will continue on for 10 more treatments, every 3
weeks...thats 30 more weeks...til december....not sure how I feel about that.
I have had a reaction to the Avastin, a nasty rash on my arms. I also think its
causing an issue with my bladder. I keep thinking I have a bladder infection
but nothing shows up. I just feel like I have to go all the time and I hurt in
my uerethra (sp?) and ways I take these pills that make me pee orange to take
away the pain. I think I'm going to have to see a urologist.
The worse part of the last 12 weeks has been the steriods. They make me feel
like I'm loosing my mind for the first 48 hours after treatment. I either cry
continously or want to kill you and eat your heart. Great hu? Doctor told me
to take more ativan and that to hang in there it was almost over.
So thats whats new with me. Next week I have another echo on my heart and I
talked the doctor into doing a ct. Not sure why I did that now I'm scared that
it might show something. I don't know why I think that and I'm sure it will be
fine. I'm still scared though.
Anyways, now that I've written a book...I'm off to bed.
Thanks for listening
Teresa

What is Breast Cancer
<http://www.diseasesndiagonsis.com/breast-cancer/what-is-breast-cancer.h\
tm
Breast cancer is a type of cancer where cells in the breast tissue
divide and grow without the normal control. About 80 percent of breast
cancers originate in the mammary ducts, while about 20 percent arise in
the lobules [5]. Cancerous tumors in the breast usually grow very slowly
so that by the time one is large enough to be felt as a lump, it may
have been growing for as long as ten years.
Here you will find information on Breast Cancer.
<http://www.diseasesndiagonsis.com/

_http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3s9_UrVtc6c_
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3s9_UrVtc6c)
This another example of why you need to examine your breasts monthly and
report anything unusual to your doctor immediately, not months later. Only 5%
of
breast cancers are inflammatory breast cancer, so it's rare.
**************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family
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Shoshana/Jo, I would suggest that you get a second opinion ASAP at the
nearest university cancer center on this. I have always heard that if any lymph
nodes were positive, then chemo is needed because the cells could have traveled
from your nodes to anywhere else in the body.
Like you, my tumor was an invasive ductal ( pea sized) with both estrogen
and progesterone receptors positive but my 5 sentinel nodes were negative so I
only had 8 weeks of daily radiation. I am 3 1/4 years into Arimidex which I
was originally told would be 5 years but research is coming out soon that will
show it's needed for 10+ years. Your chance of recurrence while taking
Arimidex will be very low after chemo.
Gail Neuman RNC CPHW (BC survivor since 8/04)
student midwife and student nurse practitioner
certified high risk OB/OB legal consultant
Perinatal Nurse Associates
801 N. Tustin Ave., Suite 305
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 314-7070
(714) 838-1479 fax
"God doesn't require us to succeed; he only requires that you try."
--_Mother Teresa_
(http://nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/peace/laureates/1979/teresa-bio.html)
**************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family
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Hi Guys,
Well, I met with the Oncologist yesterday and he has agreed that
bilateral mastectomy is the way to go. Once the surgery is complete,
I will be cancer free, no breasts no cancer. I wont need any
inhibitors like tamifaxin, no chemo therapy, no radiation, nothing
more except see the oncologist every year for blood work and follow
up. Considering the stress related to this desease, this sounds
perfect to me!!!
Surgery is scheduled for June the 18th at Hoag Hospital Newport Beach
(One of the top 5 hospitals in the country). I should be out of
there in a couple of days and on the way to recovery and re-
construction. Re-construction will take a few months but what the
heck, I'll be cancer free!! I must say this puts me over the moon!!
I want to write a song and sing it all day long about being cancer
free!! I cant wait for the surgery...
Early detection creates survivors!!! (I know I'm preaching to the
choir!!) But I skipped the ordered mamo a year ago, I was going to
skip this year buy my doc promised if I went this year he would not
make me go for another 2 years and I told him he had a deal...Thank
God for a smart doctor. I will NEVER skip any test I am asked to
take from any doctor that asks for it. They seem to know what they
are doing.....
Sandi

I'm finding myself very confused and upset. I keep getting conflicting
information, and it is driving me nuts. First let me say that I love
and trust my oncologist. Devon is considered one of the leading experts
on breast cancer in the country, and she is a two-time survivor herself.
However, at the time of my surgery I was told that although I had
invasive ductal cancer it was very small, the surgical margins were
clear, there were two cells found in the breast localized to the
pathways leading to the lymph nodes and not in the breast tissue itself.
And, only two out of 18 lymph nodes were involved. I was told by the
oncologists at the Mayo Clinic that I did not require chemo therapy or
radiation. They recommended an aromatase inhibitor because my tumor was
estrogen positive, but told me my chances for recurrence even without
the drugs was very very low.
But Devon, my oncologist now, tells me that even with the aromatase
inhibitor my chances of recurrence are fairly high, and without the
drugs my chances jump to almost 60% for recurrence.
I don't know who to believe. What I do know is that my anxiety level
just leaped through the ceiling. I watched my husband die of pancreatic
cancer, my mother die of breast cancer, my mother-in-law die of lung
cancer, and I can tell you loud and clear that I would rather be run
over by a dump truck.
I know, I know; think positive and all that. But honestly I came home
today and just sat down and bawled until I was exhausted and had a
headache. The damn drugs make me feel horrible: my memory is shot, my
joints ache, my hair is falling out. And now to learn that I'm facing an
almost 50% chance of recurrence even with taking the drugs is just too
much. My husband heard the news and just went out, got in the car, and
went to his model railroad club for the day. So helpful.
Thanks for letting me vent. I don't know how I'm going to live with
this fear.
--
Shoshana -- but you can call me Jo
Join Operation Backpack and make a difference in a homeless vet's life.
Read about it at http://www.justjosmidden.blogspot.com

I am from China. And my mother also has breast cancer.
In fact, I love my mother so much, and I want to get help from others.
My MSN: h_lab@...
Perhaps my English is not good, and I don't have much money. But please
believe me.
I love my mother !!!!!!
Please help me !

Hi Chuck,
Thanks for asking....she didn't make out good at all...she is
going in for more surgery on Monday to check the lymph nodes and
putting in the drain I think......then after that she will be
starting cemo and then radiation...the doctor told her about 9 weeks
of chemo and 9 weeks of radiation...I did ask her what stage and she
never asked...this is all a shock to all of us..when I found out that
I had BC I called them all up and told them to go and get checked and
no one did...now the other 2 sisters are checking now...all of them
haven't had Mammograms in 5 to 6 years...I have had them every year
since I had my surgery in the early 80's and now I have them every 6
months...to me I would say she is a stage 3 but not sure...they did
everything really fast..even all of the testing was quick but he said
the brain scan and other test's came back good....we are trying our
best for her...like I told her I am here for support but to answer
all of her questions I can't as I don't know them...I did let her
know about the group but she isn't ready yet...so everyone please say
a prayer for us...going to say it if anyone would like to send her a
card it would be nice...thanks all for being here because if I didn't
have this group I'd be crazy by now..Oops already am !! :)...Hugs to
all of you and thank you....Marge
PENNY RUSSO
43 SOUTH ELM STREET
WALLINGFORD ,CT
06492

Sorry, my mistake - the brain is still not totally clear - you're
right, it was a modified radical. Sorry for the misinformation. Odd
thought that was the only comment you had.

I hope you will recover soon-I know they do modified radical mastectomies
but radicals are pretty outdated.
Gail
**************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family
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My memory is shot too but I figure that's from stress and being 55, not from
Arimidex. I think anyone being diagnosed with breast cancer has their
emotions all over the place. I do, even though it's 3 1/2 years later. Nothing
wrong with asking your oncologist for an antidepressant or mood elevator. I
take
Effexor for the hot flashes and Elavil for the bone pain and even though
they are subclinical doses, I feel together they help my moods a bit.
Gail Neuman RNC CPHW (BC survivor since 8/04)
student midwife and student nurse practitioner
certified high risk OB/OB legal consultant
Perinatal Nurse Associates
801 N. Tustin Ave., Suite 305
Santa Ana, CA 92705
"God doesn't require us to succeed; he only requires that you try."
--_Mother Teresa_
(http://nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/peace/laureates/1979/teresa-bio.html)
**************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family
favorites at AOL Food.
(http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001)

After having a biopsy on Tuesday 4/29, meeting with the surgeon last
Friday 5/2 and having surgery this past Tuesday 5/6, I am going to the
medical oncologist on Monday. Whew! this has been a couple of quick
weeks. I don't think everything has completely sunk in just yet and
it doesn't help the meds are still in my system and making me a little
loopy! Guess things going quickly is better than just sitting around
waiting.
Other than that, everything is going well. They found a 5cm mass in my
breast, did a radical mastectomy and got clean margins - good news.
The surgeon removed 25 nodes and found 11 positive by the pathologist
which is less than the doc told my family he thought would be involved
- that's a mix of good and bad news. Came home on Wed, my choice,
other than some muscle pain in my left side when i move the wrong way
and the drains still going, I'm doing pretty well. Considering how
quickly everything has gone so far, we expect treatment to get started
fast too. Hey, the sooner it starts, the sooner it's over.
All my family and friends have been great but has anyone else ever
felt like they are saying the same thing over and over to people? I
know they care, so I try to be as open as possible. I do know there
will be times when i just don't want to talk anymore and fortunately,
i think family and friends will understand.
Thanks for listening.

Marge, congrats on being 3 years cancer-free!!
Gail
**************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family
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I note that some of you are taking aromatase inhibitors for
post-menopausal estrogen positive tumors. I have been fortunate in not
having hot flashes, and I seem to have gotten over most of the joint
pain. But the emotional roller coaster is awful, and my memory is shot.
Anyone else experiencing this? And if so, is there anything to be done
other than endure it?
--
Shoshana -- but you can call me Jo
Join Operation Backpack and make a difference in a homeless vet's life.
Read about it at http://www.justjosmidden.blogspot.com

Hi all!
I was diagnosed this past Monday (the 28th) with DCIS. I want to have
a mastectomy and maybe a bilateral. I have a meeting with the plastic
surgeon next week and don't know what to ask about reconstruction,
even after searching online.
Sarah

I have a question for those of you who have had a single mastectomy.
How long after the surgery did you begin wearing your bra again? I'm
more than a little "endowed" and have never felt comfortable going
around without a bra so can't see not wearing something for my
non-affected side as soon as it is comfortable at the incision.
I imagine it will be a bit before I'm ready to wear a bra but we live
in the boonies and I can't just drive down the street to go shopping
and really want to do this in person the first time, so I was thinking
about going shopping before the surgery on Tuesday so it is here when
I'm ready. Also, figure it would be easier to try to match the size
and shape while the breast is still there.
Also, which is more comfortable and affordable, wearing a mastectomy
bra, something with the pocket and a form or adapting a regular bar
into something like the pocket/form? I have several bras I really
like and can sew pretty well, so think if it works ok, would like to
just use the form and do something to add a pocket.
Appreciate any input. Thanks, carol

I have noticed all of the new members who have joined...welcome...if
you all need to talk we are here to do so...also we have a new
moderator besides me...I needed help with the group and with letters
coming in...If we reject a letter we always say why...If we delete it
as spam or just to delete it because it doesn't have to do with the
group we will....that is why I have Peggy helping...this is a great
group...ever since I joined 3 years ago it has helped me alot...yes 3
years cancer free on May 16th...so I thank you all for being here for
eveyone...God Bless...Hugs to all...Marge

Breast Cancer Treatment
<http://www.diseasesndiagonsis.com/breast-cancer/breast-cancer-treatment\
.htm
Most women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer will undergo
some type of treatment for the disease. A woman's most favorable
course of treatment will depend on a number of factors including
the size and location of the breast tumor, the stage of the cancer,
and results of laboratory tests (such as hormone receptor tests)
More Information
Here you will find information on Breast Cancer Treatment.
<http://www.diseasesndiagonsis.com/breast-cancer/breast-cancer-treatment\
.htm

Don't start taking a daily baby aspirin before talking to your doctor, but
this is very promising:
_http://www.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUSN3053699320080430?sp=true_
(http://www.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUSN3053699320080430?sp=true)
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A daily aspirin may give women modest protection
against the most common type of breast cancer, U.S. government researchers said
on Wednesday.
The finding reinforced earlier research indicating regular use of aspirin
might reduce the risk of so-called estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer,
which makes up about three quarters of breast cancer cases.
Researchers led by Gretchen Gierach of the National Cancer Institute, part of
the National Institutes of Health, found that women who took aspirin daily
cut their risk of developing this type of breast cancer by 16 percent.
"If aspirin is truly risk-reducing, it would be a very exciting finding,"
Gierach said in a telephone interview.
Estrogen receptor or ER-positive breast cancer is fueled by estrogen and
aspirin may interfere with this hormone's activity.
"Even though it's a small reduction in relative risk, since ER-positive
breast cancers are the more common types, if this result is confirmed to be true
it could have potentially a big public health impact," Gierach said.
The research involved about 127,000 women aged 51 to 72 from around the
United States who were cancer-free when the study began. About 18 percent of the
women were daily aspirin users. They were tracked for seven years and about
4,500 of them developed breast cancer.
The study did not find any relationship between aspirin and the less-common
estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer. It also did not find any protective
effect in women who took aspirin less than daily.
The study, published in BioMed Central's open-access journal Breast Cancer
Research, is the latest to suggest aspirin offers benefits beyond relieving
headaches and body aches and reducing fevers.
Aspirin is a common anti-inflammatory painkiller that can be used to relieve
symptoms of arthritis and prevent second heart attacks and other ailments.
Previous research has indicated it also may protect against colorectal cancer.
Gierach said a number of previous studies have looked at the question of
aspirin and breast cancer, yielding inconsistent results. Some of the earlier
work looked only at aspirin's effect on overall breast cancer without breaking
it down by types of the disease, she said.
A study by Columbia University researchers in the Journal of the American
Medical Association in 2004 found that women who took aspirin regularly had a
modestly lower risk for estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.
"Our findings are consistent with their findings for aspirin," Gierach said
of the Columbia study.
She noted that aspirin can cause serious side effects in some people
including ulcers and bleeding.
"A woman would really need to talk to her doctor before starting any new
regimen, and weigh the pros and cons of starting a new treatment," said Gierach,
whose study is available at _breast-cancer-research.com/._
(http://breast-cancer-research.com/)
**************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family
favorites at AOL Food.
(http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001)

I shortened the url for you: _http://tinyurl.com/4z5kcl_
(http://tinyurl.com/4z5kcl) and when you get to it, you'll see the free
templates to print for
your medical history -very, very handy to keep your entire medical
history,cancer treatments, insurance, etc. all in 1 place.
Good for anyone, like me, who has several different medical problems so pass
it along to your friends and family.
Gail
**************Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car
listings at AOL Autos.
(http://autos.aol.com/used?NCID=aolcmp00300000002851)

The site is _www.NeedyMeds.www_ (http://www.NeedyMeds.com)
Hope it helps some of you without prescription insurance.
Gail
**************Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car
listings at AOL Autos.
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Wow, I didn't have chemo but was not aware that Taxol makes one lose their
fingernails.
Gail
**************Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car
listings at AOL Autos.
(http://autos.aol.com/used?NCID=aolcmp00300000002851)

I had my 8th taxol treatment today. My body aches were still there from the
last treatment (weekly) so maybe they wont be going away anymore. My
fingernails are still hanging on, 2 of them barely hanging on....yikes. So far
no neuropathy but I did notice last night that a couple of my toes felt kind of
numb for a couple minutes. So maybe I will be getting some.
I find out about my clinical trial on may 12th, 2 weeks....They will unblind me
and I will find out if I have been receiving the Avastin or not. I really hope
I have been getting it. If I'm getting it then I find out if I will continue on
for 10 more treatments (every 3 weeks) or not. Half that receive it will
continue on, the other half stop with the taxol.
Is anyone else on here part of this trial. Its pretty big and growing. They
are really pushing it with trip neg bc or node positives bc.
Well I think its time for me to try to eat something, mouth sores are soooo fun.
Teresa

Breast Cancer Diagnosis
<http://www.diseasesndiagonsis.com/breast-cancer/breast-cancer-treatment\
.htm
Accurate diagnosis of breast cancer is derived from gathering
information from a physical exam, biopsy, x-ray scans and lab tests.
This information gathering process is generally referred to as a
"workup". It is important that patients take an active role in
understanding the procedures performed and the results obtained by these
procedures.

Today Marge contacted my wife and I, and it had been a long time since
we had posted anything here. My wife, Michele, was the founder of this
site and she
is pleased that people have found it useful and helpful. Just so you'll
know something
about Michele, I'm posting something she posted back in 2006 to members,
so they would
know her journey in all of this. We care about all of you and wish
God's blessings for
everyone! Michele has been exceptionally busy lately, and I am
currently laid off from
my job, so that's why I'm taking the time to do this. This is what
Michele posted to introduce
herself:

Did you know that there is a genetic test that can help people find out if
their family history of breast cancer may be due to a genetic mutation?
Unfortunately, if you are tested - and your results are positive - there are
very few federal protections preventing insurance companies from denying you
coverage due to your genetic condition. This has led many to forgo testing,
denying them important information that could help them manage their health
and the health of their families.
But there is something we can do to change this! The Senate is debating a
bill called the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), which would
make it illegal to discriminate based on genetic information.
_Click here to urge your Senator to support fair access to preventative
treatments!_
(http://komenpolicy.org/campaign/us_genetic_protections/wd3ub6nrl7w6mkwd?)
_http://komenpolicy.org/campaign/us_genetic_protections/wd3ub6nrl7w6mkwd_
(http://komenpolicy.org/campaign/us_genetic_protections/wd3ub6nrl7w6mkwd) ?
Preventing these protections could cost lives - lives of real people like
Bridget Mooney.
Bridget Mooney graduated in 2005 with a degree in International Relations
from Boston University. But just one week after her graduation, Bridget was
diagnosed with breast cancer. She was only 21 and had no family history of the
disease.
For nearly six months, Bridget was told by several doctors not to worry
about the lump in her left breast, and was not sent for a mammogram. Bridget
was
diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer. Her doctors were not optimistic about
her chances of survival, but she had a good response to chemotherapy and has
now been cancer-free for over a year. Bridget is still in treatment - she goes
every three weeks for chemotherapy, and will have to for the rest of her
life.
Bridget's fight against cancer is inspirational, but sadly because of the
potential discrimination from insurers or employers, she is reluctant to take
more pro-active measures to learn more about her cancer that might help her
family:
"Breast cancer in someone my age suggests a genetic mutation, but I did not
get a genetic test. I am afraid of being discriminated against by a future
employer or when I try to get health insurance if I test positive for a genetic
mutation. There are currently not enough rules and safeguards to protect
patient information. I already cannot get life insurance because I am a breast
cancer survivor," said Bridget. "My mom has not had cancer. I want my mom to
know about her own breast cancer risk, but I don't want to get a genetic test
because I worry that my mom and my cousins may face discrimination. By not
getting the test, my family doesn't have important genetic information which
would empower them. I hope one day my family members will feel free to take any
steps possible to avoid developing breast cancer themselves."
_Send a message today to your Senators telling them we need protections for
people like Bridget Mooney._
(http://komenpolicy.org/campaign/us_genetic_protections/wd3ub6nrl7w6mkwd?)
The House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the Genetic Information
Nondiscrimination Act last year. If this bill passes the Senate, we will have
a great opportunity to promote personalized medicine and the use of genetic
information in healthcare. This will lead to better research and development
for new targeted drugs and treatments, which will save lives. _Don't delay!
Join Bridget in the fight to protect the futures of other young women by urging
your Senators to pass GINA._
(http://komenpolicy.org/campaign/us_genetic_protections/wd3ub6nrl7w6mkwd?)
Thank you for joining us on this important issue. Together we can end breast
cancer forever.
Sincerely,
Diane Balma
Susan G. Komen for the Cure Advocacy Alliance
Gail Neuman RNC CPHW (BC survivor since 8/04)
student midwife and student nurse practitioner
certified high risk OB/OB legal consultant
Perinatal Nurse Associates
801 N. Tustin Ave., Suite 305
Santa Ana, CA 92705
"God doesn't require us to succeed; he only requires that you try."
--_Mother Teresa_ (http://nobelprize.org
/nobel_prizes/peace/laureates/1979/teresa-bio.html)
**************Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car
listings at AOL Autos.
(http://autos.aol.com/used?NCID=aolcmp00300000002851)

Sorry to hear about your sister and I hope the doctors can get her into
remission quickly.
Gail
**************Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car
listings at AOL Autos.
(http://autos.aol.com/used?NCID=aolcmp00300000002851)

Hi Everyone,
I have been trying to reach the owner of the group so that I can
have Peggy as another moderator but with no luck...as you all know
Debbie left the group...it's hard for me right now to do everything and
if I'm late on approving letters I'm sorry...we did find out that my
sister does have BC...not sure if it's stade 2 or 3,,,she will be going
for an MRI on Friday..Cancer doctor on Monday and surgeon on
Tuesday..and she is also having a cat scan done..her BC has progressed
and they aren't sure if they got it all...I pray they did...we all have
been upset over this as we didn't expect it..she is going to go to the
same cancer doctor that my dad and I go to...thanks for listening and
I'm sorry that I haven't written to the group or answered the emails
and you all are doing a really good job..proud of everyone..have a
wonderful and blessed day..Hugs to all...Marge

Hi everyone,
Tonight I went to take a shower and when I removed my shirt I noticed my upper,
back side of my arm (mast side) was pink and warm to the touch. It doesn't hurt
and I cant really tell if my arm is larger than the other, I don't think so.
Could I have lymphedema? I have tight feelings in the arm, have since surgery
(dec 11).
any thoughts,
Teresa

Debbie, I am one of the 20% in whom a mammogram missed a tumor. Go to a
different breast surgeon and ask for an MRI this week. Hopefully it will be
negative but you need to be sure in light of your lymph nodes.
Gail Neuman RNC CPHW (BC survivor since 8/04)
student midwife and student nurse practitioner
certified high risk OB/OB legal consultant
Perinatal Nurse Associates
801 N. Tustin Ave., Suite 305
Santa Ana, CA 92705
"God doesn't require us to succeed; he only requires that you try."
--_Mother Teresa_
(http://nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/peace/laureates/1979/teresa-bio.html)
**************Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car
listings at AOL Autos.
(http://autos.aol.com/used?NCID=aolcmp00300000002851)

I went to the doctor, saw the nurse about my arm. Its no longer red/pink and
the temp is the same as my other arm. So how weird is that. She said take
advil, keep a close eye on it. I don't know what the heck is going on.
Teresa

I was told in April 2006 that I had thyroid cancer after being told
for 3 years that I had a benign multinodular goiter. I wanted it out
and the surgeon really seemed like he was trying to discourage me...
he said " I'm 99.9% certain that there is no malignancy in your
thyroid" but I felt strongly that it needed to be removed because I
was choking a lot.
About 6 weeks ago, I was doing my monthly breast self exam and I felt
multiple lumps in both breasts. I don't take any hormones except for
my thyroid. I went through menopause about 3 years ago. I was so
shocked to feel these lumps and of course my first thought was that
the cancer was back. I had my annual surveillance exams for the
thyroid cancer in March and nothing was found. I had a diagnostic
mammo and an ultrasound of both breasts in March and both were read
as negative... no masses.I went to the surgeon and he said that he
didn't feel anything that made him suspect cancer and that I should
come back in 6 months. I, however, still feel lumps and now I am
feeling that the lymph glands in both axillary areas are swollen and
painful. I don't want to be paranoid but I can't stop worrying. I
will be seeing my neurosurgeon tomorrow to plan for surgery on my
lumbar spine where I have severe arthritic changes causing serious
narrowing of the space where the nerves branch out from the spinal
cord. I worry about the safety of ignoring the breast symptoms until
I recover from my back surgery... but I don't know if I'm being
unreasonable.
I'm just looking for some thoughts from someone who has experienced
this and maybe it will help me make the right decision.
Thanks,
Debbie

I've had continued Mamo's and found nothing;my mother(BC survivor of
19years) has the BRCA2 gene and badgered us girls in getting the test.
We have the gene. She insisted we also get the MRI- my finds were an
enhancement which they did MRI biopsy of area. I have DCIS Grade 3+ and
all the biospy taken (7-8) of the area is cancerous. I am a healthy
eating, exercise conscious person who never believed I would have any
of it. I'm now faced with what the surgeon (I've know for 20 years)
suggest a double masce and reconstruction along with taking ovaries. I
don't understand if there is nothing showing up in my other breast why
they don't consider that.I have to say honestly I am a very, very vain
person and I know thatsounds stupid but I am and not sure how mentally
I would feel after not being able to feel the same about my body, sex
and not enjoying it as I do. My husband is so supportive.....I am 54
years old and am very confused.

wow, this shows promise!!
_Roche Holding_ (http://r.smartbrief.com/resp/krmIdvosnwpsqPxGqg) announced
Friday that a combination of its breast cancer drug Herceptin and a
traditional chemotherapy treatment completely eliminated breast cancer tumors
in 45.5%
of the 453 women involved in the study. A cancer specialist said the
findings underscore how the drug "offers real hope" to early-stage patients
with an
aggressive form of breast cancer
_http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/article3775930.ece_
(http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/article3775930.ece)
Gail
**************Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car
listings at AOL Autos.
(http://autos.aol.com/used?NCID=aolcmp00300000002851)

Researchers found that 12 weekly doses of Taxol after standard chemotherapy
were more effective than four Taxol treatments every three weeks in preventing
disease recurrence and extending the lives of breast cancer patients. Weekly
dosage for 12 weeks "should be considered a new standard," a study author
said,
read the article here:
_http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/16/AR20080416028
54.html_
(http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/16/AR2008041602854\
.html)
Gail
**************Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car
listings at AOL Autos.
(http://autos.aol.com/used?NCID=aolcmp00300000002851)

I to have had breast cancer. I went through alot of awful days,and
treatments. I feel sorry for the people that are still going through
this. A positive attitude for your self and others. Yes, the cancer
could come backbut, that can not control daily routine. The quicker you
get back into a daily routine, the better. Please do not let the cancer
be there controling your mind. I hope and pray that no one ever get it
back.If the person(including me) does, at least you can look back and
say"I lived my life to the fullest the first time and I will
again."Life has no guarantees whether you have never had cancer or not.

Congrats on being a 6 year survivor! It's great that you're keeping busy
with hobbies and that you feel well.
I'm still at the stage where I'm mad, because I have bone pain from the
Arimidex and need to take Elavil and Tylenol for that, plus Effexor XL for the
hot flashes that Arimidex causes, Vagifem to overcome the dryness, etc., etc.
The bone pain is cyclic-for a month it's not too bad and then for 3-4 weeks I'm
ready to rip out my hair form the pain. My breast still hurts from the
radiation, so I wear a bra only when absolutely necessary.
Emotions still go up and down, am tired daily and need a 2 hour nap most
days even though I finished radiation in 11/04, my feet hurt so hubby and I
can't go for long walks any more, etc. To make things worse, I had my 6 month
checkup with the oncologist 2 weeks ago and he told me that new research is
being wrapped up that will show that one needs to take Arimidex, Femara, etc.
for
life, not onl