Kickin' Cancer's Ass ~ Inflammatory Breast Cancer

Kick Cancer's Ass with Exercise

2012-02-10T18:07:00.000-08:00

Guest Post by Liz Davies

Cancer is incredibly debilitating in itself, and treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, can cause severe fatigue;

Anemia – This is a condition where there aren’t enough red blood cells in the body, so the body has to work much harder to supply oxygen to organs and tissues. This in turn causes severe fatigue. Some cancers of the blood and bone cause anemia, as do treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Nausea and diet – many cancers, as well as their treatments, can cause nausea, weight loss and a lack of appetite. If someone isn’t eating well, they will automatically feel more tired, particularly if the body is already fighting illness.

Less active – the less active someone is, the less likely they are to feel like exercising yet, paradoxically, the effect of exercise on the body makes someone feel less tired.

How exercise can help prevent cancer.

Much research has been undertaken into how exercise can help not only those suffering from cancer, but also in the prevention of some cancers

Accurate studies have shown convincing evidence between physical activity and a lower risk of two of the most common cancers, colon cancer and breast cancer, as well as several other cancers including endometrial cancer (womb lining), prostate cancer, and mesothelioma cancer. In fact, the link between exercise and colon cancer is one of the most greatly researched across the world, with the findings that adults who increase their physical activity reduce their risk of colon cancer by a huge thirty per cent.

Similarly, extensive research has looked at the link between physical activity and breast cancer. Although a link has been established, it’s not as definitive as that between colon cancer and exercise, with benefits varying from a 20 per cent reduced risk to 80 per cent reduced risk.

How exercise can benefit people with cancer? Often, people with cancer are encouraged by family and friends to ‘take it easy’. However, exercise has shown to be of great benefit for the following reasons:

Pain relief through the release of endorphins
Increases energy and strength, lifts mood and promotes better sleep
Increases illness fighting white blood cells
Boosts immune system
Reduces time spent in hospital

The National Cancer Institute is undertaking further research to prove initial findings that physical activity also improves survival of cancer after promising studies showed less incidences of reoccurrence in people who remained active.

Liz Davies is a recent college graduate and aspiring writer especially interested in health and wellness. She wants to make a difference in people’s lives because she sees how cancer has devastated so many people in this world. Liz also likes running, playing lacrosse, reading and playing with her dog, April.

Information on IBC....You Can Never Get Enough

2011-04-12T13:11:00.000-07:00

When a Red Breast Means Cancer by Patrick Maguire MD

Possibilities

There are several reasons why a person can develop acute (fairly sudden onset of) breast redness. Infection and inflammation are the two most common causes. Both of these conditions need to be treated in a timely fashion in order to improve health & minimize pain. They usually resolve over a week or two. However, there is one cause of breast redness that is always life-threatening: inflammatory breast cancer (IBC).

Warning Signs IBC is a particularly aggressive form of breast cancer. Among every 100 patients diagnosed with breast cancer, about 2 - 5 will have IBC. It’s more commonly diagnosed in younger women and the redness can come on literally over a few days. While most people who develop a red breast will NOT have IBC, both patients and their primary doctors need to be aware of the possibility. This diagnosis should be particularly suspected in patients who still have a red breast after treatment with antibiotics or anti-inflammatories for a presumed infection or inflammation. The classic description of the appearance of IBC is peau d’orange (orange peel) skin.

Diagnosis & Staging The diagnosis is confirmed by biopsy of the breast skin, usually by a breast surgeon or radiologist. Pathologists, the specially trained doctors who look at the biopsy tissue under the microscope, will usually describe tumor cells in the lymphatic channels of the breast tissue and breast skin. The blockage of these channels is usually the cause of the breast redness in IBC. Often there is no specific mass or lump in the breast, only diffuse red, thickened breast skin. Evaluation of the breast itself should include mammogram, often ultrasound (if a mass is felt), and sometimes MRI. All patients with IBC are considered to have aggressive disease. In that regard, unless the patient is in very poor condition and would not tolerate treatment, staging studies should be performed to assess whether the cancer has visibly spread elsewhere. These scans would include PET/CT or CT of chest and abdomen and bone scan. Patients with symptoms such as severe headache, nausea, and vomiting should also have MRI of the brain.

Treatment & Outcome

As with all breast cancers, the treatment for IBC can be broken down into two categories: locoregional (breast and lymph nodes) and systemic (throughout the body). A common mistake that a surgeon can make is to recommend a mastectomy (removal of the breast) first. Patients who are in reasonable medical condition should almost always have chemotherapy first, then mastectomy, then radiation therapy to the chestwall and regional lymph nodes. Hormonal and targeted therapies (such as Herceptin) may be recommended also, depending on the specific tumor biology. Among patients who have no evidence of metastasis (disease spread to distant areas in the body) at the time of diagnosis and are potentially curable, 40-50% are alive 5 years later. Awareness about this particularly aggressive form of breast cancer and its treatment is critical to ensure the best chance for cure.

You can LIKE Dr. on Facebook by clicking here. His blog is also a wealth of information on all types of cancer. A special thank you to Dr. Maquire for helping us get the word out on this!!! Our hope is that it will save many lives....so please pass this on to all your friends and family. Living life to the fullest, Jan & Julie

When Cancer Hits Home

2011-03-17T20:26:00.000-07:00

When Cancer Hits Home by Dr. Patrick Maguire is a perfect read for anyone who is scared of getting cancer or is dealing with family or friends who have cancer. Dr. Maguire opens the book with his very own personal story of his family decimated by cancer in a very short period of time.

Like Dr. Maguire, our family has endured too much cancer and we have lost too many friends and family members to this monster. Anything we can do to educated and eradicate this disease we will do.

We all know someone who has cancer or has lost some one to cancer. This manual for cancer prevention and treatment is a must read for everyone.

Thank you Dr. Maguire for writing this book and thank for emailing me and telling me about it. You can get this book on Amazon

IBC Survivorship....It's a Good Thing

2010-11-09T13:18:00.000-08:00

Here is a blog I thought you would like to read and add to your favorites.....Elizabeth is another IBC survivor!!! She is a great writer and tells the story of her journey through this hell we call Inflammatory Breast Cancer well.

It is so good to hear happy stories like this and we want to share as many as we can!!! Pass this on to everyone you know so that everyone can be a survivor.

Thanks Elizabeth for sharing your story with us!!

Still Kicking Cancer in the Butt

2010-11-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

It has been awhile since our last post....things have been crazy in our world and although that is not an excuse for dropping the ball....we thought you would just all want to know that we are still here....and still Kickin' Cancer's Ass!!

Julie had her reconstruction surgery in September with great success. It is amazing what they can do now to help bring a woman who has had a mastectomy back to 'normal' (whatever normal is). That being said, it was a long 11 hour surgery, with lots of pain and lots of suffering, and our poor patient had about 4 feet of incisions. It was hard on her and it was hard on all of us to see her like that...but being the trooper she is, she is healing fast and starting to get back into the swing of things. She is happy with her new boobies and her new flat tummy, and that is what counts. And she is alive!!

All of her doctors and nurses have been amazing forces in her fight and recovery from this monster, and for them we are all very thankful. We are hearing more and more stories of breast cancer surviviors, especially of those with IBC, and that makes our hearts very happy.

October was breast cancer awareness month and it reminded me to keep our blog in the forefront. Not everyone survives and we were reminded of that with the loss of our dear friend Selena. Selena was a 3x warrior of breast cancer and now that she is an angel in heaven we know she wants us to keep fighting the fight!!

As I approach my 5 year remission anniversary, I know that I am one of the lucky ones. I also know that Julie is one of the lucky IBC survivors. We will do all we can to get the word out and help women (and men) who have been attacked by this monster!

Dear Breast Cancer,

We always knew you were out there.

Lurking.

Wreaking havoc in people’s lives.

But we didn’t travel in the same circles and we thought our family was safe from your poison.

How naive we were!

A typical bully, you came into our lives at our weakest point.

You thought we would be easy marks!

Well, the joke was on you!

We fought you!

We beat you!

You are out of our lives now.

Here’s a news flash for you:

We don’t miss you one bit!

You caught us off guard.

It won’t happen again.

Our new life’s mission is to ensure you can’t do the same to other women.

We will educate as many women as we can to eradicate you!

Watch your back, cancer! We are coming for you!

Jan & Julie

Gaga for Tatas...In Honor of Selena

2010-09-17T14:52:00.000-07:00

Enjoy this video......October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and this is perfect to get everyone's attention!!! Thanks to 2010 Komen Portland Race for the Cure. This is in honor of our young friend Selena who lost her battle fighting breast cancer on October 2, 2010.....we know she would want everyone to see this!! RIP Selena dear....you were an amazing warrior!

Calling All Divas - This One Is For You......

2010-07-16T15:38:00.000-07:00

Aren't these just stinkin' cute!! If you have to wear an arm band because of lympedema....then

Lymphedivas is for you!!!

I love this website and just had to share!! They have tons of styles and colors - you could get one for every outfit!!

You have been through enough and there is no reason why you should suffer any more!! Life you life and seize the day!!

I hope you are enjoying a magical summer and are taking the time to smell the roses!!

Jan

Stop Tanning....NOW...and Go With Your Own Glow

2010-06-25T13:37:00.000-07:00

Are you a tanner? I was for a few years....but no more....a landmark study confirming that exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light (radiation from the sun or tanning machines) is the most common cause of melanoma and there are a host of reasons to give up tanning.

1. Studies Link UV Radiation to the Deadliest Form of Skin Cancer
Scientists have analyzed the genome (the complete DNA information) for melanoma, and, according to a definitive new study from The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, in Hinxton, England, the vast majority of mutations found in this potentially deadly disease are caused by ultraviolet radiation. For the first time, researchers have identified thousands of mutations that occur in melanoma genes. Above all, these mutations are caused by damage to the skin cells’ DNA by UV radiation. According to the Institute, “The melanoma genome contains more than 33,000 mutations, many of which bear the imprint of the most common cause of melanoma — exposure to ultraviolet light.” Additionally, in July the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) added radiation from UV-emitting tanning machines to its list of the most dangerous forms of cancer-causing radiation — a list that includes the radioactive element plutonium as well as solar UV. Studies show that first exposure to tanning beds in youth increases melanoma risk by 75 percent.

2. Tanning Beds Increase the Risk of Nonmelanoma Skin Cancers
Tanning bed users have 2.5 times the risk of squamous cell carcinoma and 1.5 times the risk of basal cell carcinoma. These nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSC) are the two most common skin cancers, and both can be highly disfiguring if not caught and treated in a timely manner. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most common form of skin cancer, affects over a million Americans annually. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) can metastasize if not caught early; approximately 2,500 people in the US die every year from SCC. People with a history of NMSC face twice the risk of developing other malignancies, like lung, colon, and breast cancer.

3. UV Exposure Causes Skin Aging
Up to 90 percent of the visible changes commonly attributed to aging are caused by UV exposure. The cellular damage to the skin’s DNA caused by UV radiation is cumulative and leads to fine wrinkles, deep grooves, blotchiness, sagging, and a leathery texture. People who accumulate a lot of UV exposure in their childhood and teen years may see signs of damage as early as in their twenties.

4. Tanning is Not Fashionable
Celebrities, models, and fashion insiders all know that tanning is no longer in style. Many actors and actresses are proud to be pale; they wouldn’t alter their natural beauty or risk damaging their skin by tanning.: A healthy glow does not mean a tan. A healthy glow means your natural skin tone, glowing. Skin that is not tan is gorgeous.

This is a trend you’d be smart to follow! Go with your own glow!!

Inspirational Thoughts.......Believe

2010-05-25T12:17:00.000-07:00

I am feeling blue today.....a friend is battling breast cancer for the third time.....this says it all!!!

Relay for Life...Going Strong in Juneau

2010-05-07T13:05:00.000-07:00

Things are a changin' up here in Juneau Alaska!! Mom and I were asked to step up as the Event Chair and Co-Chair for the Juneau-Douglas Relay for Life event a few weeks ago. And my what a project it has been!! From reading the information packets on what our new jobs entail - it seems like we are starting a little late on this!! Most towns start planning these big events 9-10 months before the event itself...we however, are just getting going 2 1/2 months before the Relay date!!

Luckily our friends, co-workers and other-halves are pitching in and we are sure that we are going to have a GREAT Relay this year! A little hard work and some delegation will bring it all together!!! Thank you everyone who has stepped up to the plate!

The American Cancer Society's Relay for Life is a 12-24 hour event (depending on the city) held in thousands of cities all across the country. It is a fundraiser that helps raise money for cancer research, education and patient services for those affected by cancer.

If you would like to support the Juneau Relay for Life event, please click on any of the underlined links.

Thanks for all of your support and well wishes....it is very much appreciated.

Jessica & Julie

Inflammatory Breast Cancer Confusion

2010-04-20T11:06:00.000-07:00

There has been some confusing videos on the internet regarding Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) lately....and we need to clear up the confusion. In response to these videos, Patti Bradfield, President of the Inflammatory Breast Cancer Foundation, has written this article.

Please pass this on to your mothers, daughters, sisters and friends so they know that if they even suspect they may have IBC, they seek a medical professional immediately and DEMAND that IBC be ruled out.

For more information and up-to-date research about IBC, please see the links on our blog or visit Erase IBC at http://www.eraseibc.com/

My daughter is ontinuing to thrive after her early diagnosis and treatment. We would have not known to seek help without Patti's continued quest on getting the word out.

Thank you Patti ~

Cancer Joins Us Like Family.....

2010-04-05T19:53:00.000-07:00

It is with a heavy heart that I write this tonight....as another one is lost to cancer. I did not know this person, but I have followed this family's blog about thier journey with living with cancer for a few years now. As unfair as it is, both Doreen and Rick had cancer and fought an amazing battle. Rick lost his battle a few days ago, but his wife Doreen continues her fight.

If you want some inspiring reading, I suggest you click on this link and read the heartfelt posts from them and their daughters. It is truly amazing and it inspires me never to feel sorry for myself again and be thankful for everyday the Lord has given me.

Rest in Peace Rick.....and continue to Dream Big Dor....

Kids With Cancer....

2010-03-13T19:55:00.000-08:00

Those of you that know us and read this blog, know that our family has been 'hit' with cancer a lot through the years...my mom and dad both lost their battle with lung cancer, several aunts and uncles battled cancer through the years, we have lost friends to cancer and have friends that are cancer survivors. I am a breast cancer survivor and my daughter is a survivor of Inflammatory Breast Cancer.

Cancer Sucks!

But....there is nothing worse than a child with cancer....it always breaks my heart and brings tears to my eyes when I hear about a child suffering with cancer or when a parent loses a child to this devastating disease. It was so hard to have an adult child go through cancer...I just can not imagine how the parents and families of these little ones do it. I donate to several childhood cancer organizations and will continue to do so until they find a cure.

If you would like a chance to help and to donate....I have the perfect way to do that and you benefit also. Scentsy has a new warmer that is especially dedicated to childhood cancer and 100% of the net profits will be donated to the Sunshine Kids Foundation.

Please click on this link to purchase this warmer now....the cost is only $35.00 and you will be helping kids fight the battle.

☆Inspire☆Believe☆Dream☆Create☆Imagine☆Hope☆

....wishing for a cure, Jan

Port Be Gone.......

2010-03-05T15:47:00.000-08:00

If you're a cancer patient who needs a prolonged course of chemotherapy, your port is your friend. Your blood can be drawn through it and you can get your chemotherapy through it without painful needle sticks and burning out of veins. These two things alone can go a long way in improving a cancer patient's quality of life.

But when treatment is over….you want the port out….you want the reminder of your battle gone! It means a lot to your recovery….

It means an end to the chemotherapy.
It means that the most intense, painful stage of treatment is over.
It means reversal of at least one bodily alteration.
It promises the hope of a return of what was taken away by the cancer.

To many doctors, removing a port is supposed to be an easy procedure…however not to the doctors in Juneau. Apparently this is a big deal to them...they want to use an anesthetic and put Julie under. “No F_*%$#@*% way”…says Julie…I have been “put to sleep” enough in the past two years.

So after consulting with the reconstruction surgeon, Julie will live with her port for another few months. It has been part of her journey since April 2008 and the decision has been made that it will come out when she begins her reconstruction surgery in September….but that is okay as that is when she will be getting her new "20 year old boobies" as she calls them.

Still fighting…..and with a sense of humor to boot!! You go girl!!

A proud mama……….Jan

Another Survivor Story....In Her Own Words

2010-03-02T19:28:00.000-08:00

There are over 2 million breast cancer survivors.....mothers, daughters, sisters, friends......below is a post from a young friend of mine who tells it from the heart......and in her own words. After reading this, dry your eyes and pray that breast cancer does not affect your loved ones, pass this one to friends and family.....then please donate to help find a cure so other young mothers do not have to go through this.

Why I do it… A heartfelt definition of why I will walk. As many of you have noticed, I have begun my fundraising efforts for the 2nd year to participate in the Susan G. Komen Seattle 3Day Breast Cancer Walk. The donation link on my page does not lead you directly to my story, so I chose to take the time to tell you from the rawest place in my heart why I am willing to walk 20 miles a day for three straight days after I have spent over three years battling breast cancer.

You’d think I would give myself a break. I refused to quit on myself and again I outright refuse to quit on every future cancer patient.

I will not sugarcoat it. 1 out of 7 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime!! 240,000 women are diagnosed each year and 40,000 women a year DIE of breast cancer. Every 13 minutes a woman DIES of breast cancer. This is your mother, daughter, girlfriend, wife, sister, cousin, best friend, grandmother, aunt, niece, and granddaughter. You may be alarmed to know that the younger a woman is the more aggressive the cancer is and the higher the mortality rate.

FEEL YOUR BOOBS! The youngest recorded case of breast cancer was a 10 yr old girl from CA. I am connected to a sister survivor who was diagnosed at 19 years old. This is an epidemic that MUST BE STOPPED! There are also over 2 million breast cancer survivors! This is only possible because of early detection funded by awareness and money to fund the research that we need to save lives! Susan G. Komen lost her life to breast cancer and it was her sister that granted Susan’s dying wish to do everything to stop it. The organization is the largest grass roots non profit in the world! Fundraisers and donors are truly saving lives, including mine.

Many of you know that I have battled breast cancer twice. The first chemotherapy regimen I was on included drugs that had just been authorized for use in 2005 and 2007. Had the research not been funded I might not be here able to type this letter. No, don’t pass the sugar. I am not finished. Do you want to know why I am willing to bust my ass and my feet walking 60 miles on uneven terrain in hot weather with my feet bleeding inside my shoes??

…Because PERSONALLY, no brand new mother should ever have to clutch her baby in her arms sobbing silently for weeks with visions of her baby growing up and never knowing his mother, like I did. Because no mother should have to watch months of confusion on her child’s face as she tells him for the thousandth time she still can’t hold him because her body hurts too bad, debilitated by numerous surgeries. Because no woman should ever have to stand in front of a mirror starring at her horrible scars crying and wondering if a man would ever find her attractive again, like I did. Or wondering if a man will ever love her again because she no longer can have anymore children, like I did.

Because I can’t go one f@cking day without wondering if I am going to see my son start kindergarten, learn to ride a bike, go on a date, graduate from college, or fall in love. I am a mother, a sister, a girlfriend, a cousin, a niece, a best friend, and a daughter. I am a patient of a disease who is trying to rob me and all of those close to me of my LIFE!

So, YES…I am going to beg you for your money, your awareness, your ability to pass on my story. YES, I am going to gather an army of cancer warriors and we are going to make a difference!! Yes, I am going to spend the rest of my life busting my ass to protect your daughters, mothers, nieces, grandmothers, cousins, wives, girlfriends, granddaughters and sisters.

And YES, I am going to fight to be here for my son because he deserves to have his mother!

Please give great consideration to donating to my cause. Please click this link and donate. Thank you.

Cancer Whoopin’ Advocate, Selena Seymour

Writer's Block and Computer Problems

2010-02-28T15:10:00.000-08:00

It has been awhile since I have made a blog post....first it was writer's block and then computer problems...and I am not sure either issue is completely solved yet.

It amazes me how dependent I have become to the computer and the Internet...or perhaps addicted is a more appropriate word.

I did want to give you a short update on Julie however....she continues to thrive and is living life to the fullest. She is back to her old self and just reading her 'to do list' wears me out! As a mom, I tell her to take time to rest...and as a child, she resists. Mothers and daughters have that problem and we are no exception. I know we are both thankful though that the other one is around to banter with.

She has plans in place to begin her reconstruction surgeries.....yep, surgeries. For those of you that don't know about breast reconstruction...there are numerous surgeries....all months apart, and this process will take about a year. But she is ready for the challenge and we will update you more as the date approaches and the doctors have finalized their plans.

In the meantime, I am off to finish watching the Olympics. The USA has made us proud this year. I am in awe of all of the athletes, their touching stores, and their amazing abilities from all the countries....even though I am rooting for the good old US of A!!

Happy Sunday to all! Jan

Informing Everyone About IBC.....

2010-01-23T21:07:00.000-08:00

It is time once again to INFORM everyone about Inflammatory Breast Cancer. There are too many women being diagnosed with IBC and too many questions still left unanswered. There are still too many doctors and health care professionals that do not know about IBC.....how can they help these women if even they don't know.

So please pass this information along to every woman you know....you could be saving someones life....someone who hasn't heard about this aggressive cancer....someone whose doctor has misdiagnosed her....someone with a family and children and people who love her....it could even be you.

Please click on the links, pass this blog on and let's tell everyone about IBC and let's ERASE IBC.

Sending warm thoughts on a chilly evening, Jan

Remembering Jackie 1965-2004 .... Daughter, Sister, Mother, Friend

2010-01-19T15:20:00.000-08:00

We thought of you with love today,
but that is nothing new.
We thought about you yesterday,
and days before that too.
We think of you in silence,
we often speak your name.
All we have are memories,
and your picture in a frame.
Your memory is our keepsake,
with which we will never part.
God has you in His keeping,
we have you in our hearts.
A million times we`ve wanted you.
A million times we cried.
If love could only have saved you,
you never would have died.
It broke our hearts to lose you.
But you didn`t go alone.
For a part of us went with you...
the day God called you Home.

~Author Unknown

When Pink Is Just A Color Again.....

2010-01-17T13:42:00.000-08:00

I found this video on Facebook....yes, I do FB too!! This song is so inspirational and brings breast cancer awareness to everyone's mind.

Julie and I are both busy working on our Relay for Life fund raising efforts. Julie has taken on the daunting job of Chair for the Survivors for her Relay for Life in Juneau. Yes, that is right, after working her busy job everyday and taking care of her home and hubby, she still takes time to volunteer and help find a cure for all cancers. You Go Girl!!!

That is what cancer survivors do...they do not sit around and take life for granted....they live everyday to the fullest. So get up off the couch and start volunteering. Join or start a Relay team in your area...it will do your heart good....and it will help us find a cure in our lifetime.

So I am off to work on my fundraising efforts....but I am going to listen to this song just one more time....it inpires me.

Live Life to the Fullest .... No One Knows What Tomorrow Will Bring

2010-01-10T18:44:00.001-08:00

Just reflecting today....we lost another family member to cancer this past week. We MUST do something to find a cure.....I don't have the answers, but I sure wish someone did.

Until then live live to the fullest.....this video tells it all.

Living & loving life, Jan

2010….And The Best Is Yet To Come……

2009-12-29T19:23:00.000-08:00

As we near the end of another year, we wanted to take a moment to thank you for your continued support and allowing us to share our story in 2009. This time last year Julie was battling cancer…and at the end of this year…she has kicked its ass!! We both had our checkups this month….an we both came out with a clean bill of health. We know are BLESSED and not a day goes by that we take that for granted.

Resolutions are something we all made in the past….but we found out this year that “when we make plans, God laughs”. We are not any less religious because of our journey, but we are all more realists now.

So we are making plans to live our lives to the fullest in 2010 and fulfilling our bucket list wishes, hopes and dreams. One of my fellow bloggers mantra is “Dreaming Big” and that she does as she battles terminal cancer so we are taking some lessons from her….live life to the fullest!

We will try to eat more healthy foods, get more exercise, love more deeply and forgive more easily. We will be more compassionate and less judgmental. We will give more and take less. We will take more chances, enjoy more time with friends and family, try new adventures, spend less, save more, and add new events to our bucket lists!! We will do are best to live life to the fullest so that we have no regrets.

We will continue blogging, volunteering and help others, and get involved in other creative outlets. We will fight for healthcare reform so no one has to die because they can’t afford to live. We will continue to educate and inform as we learn about new procedures and medications. We will fight for a cure for cancer in our lifetime so our grandchildren don’t have to endure this terrible disease. And we will continue to support and pray for those who have been stricken.

So as we leave you with our parting thoughts for 2009, we wish you all a very prosperous, peaceful, and healthy 2010 and stay tuned for tales of fulfilling our bucket list this coming year.

Celebrate life!!!!

Holiday Greetings to All....

2009-12-15T19:23:00.000-08:00

We just wanted to take this opportunity to wish all of you a magical Christmas season and a healthy and joyous New Year.

Thank you for all of your support, prayers, comments and well wishes throughout our journey...we now know there are angels amoungst us...and we appeciate it more than words can say.

As we take some time to celebrate the season, we hope you will join us after the holidays for the rest of the story......

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Jan & Julie

Pink Glove Dance....Way to Go!!

2009-12-05T19:38:00.000-08:00

This is just going to be a short post.....I have had so many people send me this YouTube video asking me to post it to my blog that I lost count. It is an awesome video - funny and upbeat - and done to raise the awareness of breast cancer. This is a 'feel good' post that I am hoping you take the time to watch.....it will put you in good spirits too....just what we all need during this holiday season.

Busy Week....And Lots To Be Thankful For....

2009-11-22T13:17:00.000-08:00

This is such a beautiful time of year...I love the fall colors and the crisp cold mornings. We are readying the house for winter....getting ready for Thanksgiving....and playing Christmas Caroles to lift our spirits....and unfortunately the blog has taken a back-seat to all of my other community fund raising projects these past few weeks. I apologize to my faithful readers and promise to do better.

It has been a whirlwind couple of weeks at our house....we have put our house up for sale...finally making the decision to downsize. It was a hard decision to make but now that it has been made we are waiting for the perfect people to come and purchase our perfect house. With that comes the joy of searching for a new, smaller, easy-to-care-for home. So our weekends have been full, to say the least.

Julie has been busy too....she is getting ready to go on vacation to Mexico (see her new do) and then will be stopping off in Seattle on her way home for her check up with her oncologist and other docs. We know she will receive good news - cancer still staying away!! We will drive up to Seattle for a day visit with them and do a little holiday shopping too.

So, like I said, I will try to be better and post to the blog more often, but right now I am off to....write the blog for Altrusa, finishing the paperwork on our poinsettia sales, and tallying up how many Toy Wagon raffle tickets we have sold. I am thanking God for the wind and rain storm today.....it is keeping me in the house so all these projects can get some attention.

Remember to Give Thanks on Thanksgiving for everything that is wonderful in your life.

Jan

She's Leaving on a Jet Plane......

2009-11-06T15:18:00.000-08:00

Once again...Julie is on the move. She is flying up to Anchorage today for training and, of course, some much needed big-city "retail therapy".

She has been asked to be the Survivor Chair for the ACS Relay for Life in Juneau. What an honor and privilege this is for her. This will give her an opportunity to advocate for not only cancer awareness of all kinds, but educate everyone about Inflammatory Breast Cancer. She is excited to attend the training and meet others who are involved with Relay for Life.

She will do this volunteer job while continuing to work her full-time job and managing her household. Like the old adage says "this girl lets no grass grow under her feet" - that is for certain!! And I know she will do an awesome job.

So look for more posts about her new assignment, and her busy life and our continued support of Relay for Life.

And don't let the grass grow under your feet either...find a cause you believe in and volunteer today. Anytime you feel yourself feeling depressed or in an unhappy state, immediately get up and get out to help the world in anyway you can. As you make helping others a part of your everyday life, any feelings of depression and unhappiness will appear less and less...and will be replaced by feelings of gratitude and joy. Volunteering not only brings joy to others - it can help you feel better about yourself. Take my word for it...it works every time!!

I am off to volunteer now...so wishing you an awesome autumn weekend wherever you are.

Jan

Breast Cancer Survivor Luncheon...

2009-11-01T18:56:00.000-08:00

I had the awesome opportunity to attend the 8th annual Breast Cancer Survivor luncheon in our area on Thursday. This luncheon honors survivors, thanks caregivers and educates the public on how far we have come in making women aware of the epidemic of breast cancer.

Did you know one in eight women will have breast cancer in their lives...and you will know at least one of them? Those statistics are very alarming to me and that is why I work so diligently on this cause.

This year in addition to a lovely lunch, fashion show and a presentation by a local surgeon, we had an awesome speaker who told her story of battling IBC with hope and humor. Her story was heartfelt and moving and there was not a dry eye in the audience. And it was especially moving to me as her story is so very close to our own. Heidi Marble is a 10 year survivor of Inflammatory Breast Cancer and has made it her mission in life to raise money to find a cure for breast cancer. You can read more about Heidi, her artwork and her book "Waiting for Wings" by clicking on the link.

....and the biggest news is that we made the local newspaper and our blog was listed for information on IBC. That makes it all worth it to me and give me reason to continue working on finding all the information I can on breast cancer research.

...and if you have a chance to pick up an October 30th edition of the Juneau Empire, they did a feature article on Julie and her battle with IBC. It was a heart wrenching article and Julie did a wonderful job of telling her story....she makes me very proud. I wish I could post it on this blog...but the Juneau Empire did not have the article in their online edition.

So I am calling the "October Breast Cancer Awareness" blitz a huge success. Every organization and individual that was involved was able to inform and touch many hearts......and that is a good thing, a very good thing.

We hope you schedule your mammogram too! Jan

Five Minutes of Fame....

2009-10-20T18:16:00.000-07:00

Making a great YouTube video, being on America's Funniest Home Videos, or maybe even being discovered on America's Got Talent is something we all dream of from time to time. Getting our "five minutes of fame" in life is on most of our "list of things to do" even though we don't always admit it.

Getting Inflammatory Breast Cancer is not the way Julie dreamed of getting on the "news" but that is what has played out in her life, so she is making the best of it. She is being an advocate and a supporter and an educator.

She was the "featured survivor" in the Juneau Empire newspaper today....and she has an awesome attitude and we hope it inspires all survivors everywhere. Click on any of these links to read all about it!!!!

When God gives you lemons.....make a delicious lemon drop martini and share the recipe for a great, exciting, event filled life!!! Jan

Stand By Her...A Breast Cancer Guide For Men

2009-10-17T19:57:00.000-07:00

I am always looking for interesting information about Breast Cancer to put on my blog....and I just came across this book on Amazon. I wish it would have been available for my husband and my son-in-law when my daughter and I went through our battle with breast cancer and Inflammatory Breast Cancer.

My husband has had to go through the breast cancer journey with me, three of his sisters and his step-daughter. This book would have helped him so much. So if you or someone you love is battling breast cancer, please by her significate other this book.

John W. Anderson had four women in his life go through breast cancer – his wife, his mom, his sister, and his mom’s best friend. He realized that all his experiences, combined with other men’s journeys through “Cancer Land” could be of help to other men facing their own journeys. So he wrote STAND BY HER which offers strategies and support on the countless minefields men face, every day, as husbands, sons, brothers, fathers, friends and coworkers of breast cancer patients.

“You are about to be initiated into an exclusive men’s club, a group millions strong of men who have traveled the difficult journey you are about to undertake,” Anderson tells his readers upfront. “Welcome to the Stand by Her brotherhood.”

Always here to inform, educate and hoping this helps you, Jan

Headache & Heartache Are Going Away Now....

2009-10-10T19:41:00.001-07:00

Just a quick update to let everyone know that I can now breath again. Julie had a scare and we all have spent that past few weeks holding our breath....which we found out causes horrible headaches.

During one of her morning routine self-exams (she does that daily now) she noticed some swelling and some redness near her incision area. So she called the doctor and made an appointment....the doc didn't think things looked very good...so he ordered an MRI. They are being very, very cautious with her....so that was not unexpected...but it made us all think that perhaps her cancer had returned....and that was very nerve racking.

The technicians saw "something" so they sent the results down to her doctor in Seattle. After several agonizing days, the word came back....."this is not anything we wouldn't expect to see taking into consideration all she has been through this past year". That was good news for sure!!! It took too long to get the results....but we relish in the good news.

So now we can all go on with our lives....and take this moment to remind all of you to do your self-breast exams and get your mammograms. Remember October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and life you save may be your own.

Thanking God for our great doctors and medical miracles, Jan

Catching My Breath......

2009-10-06T14:51:00.000-07:00

What a busy few weeks it has been……everything caught up to me at one time….and my energy level and patience threshold has been taxed.

But I am starting to wind down now and enjoy some quiet time and take pleasure in the beautiful fall weather we are having here in the Pacific Northwest.

First of all, my granddaughter made it to Juneau (see picture). The pre-trip preparation and scheduling was stressful for all of us, but the trip was enjoyable and uneventful and they arrived safe and sound.

They arrived there on Monday morning and she started her new job on Tuesday morning….she is young, smart and ambitious for sure and has proven that she will be successful in all she does.

The Pink Phoenix fund raising gala was a delight and we had the best time. For a first-time event for this group, it was well done and very successful. It was great to be in the company of such strong, supportive breast cancer survivors and my hat is off to all of them for all their hard work and dedication!! I won two of the beautifully designed works-of-art bras in the auction, and I hope to be able to design one for next year….the ideas are swirling around in my head already.

I have also been involved in our local UNITED WAY campaign this year and the project had to be completed right in the middle of everything else that was going on. I have learned a lot about myself during this undertaking….I am not as young as I once was, I don’t have the energy I used to have, and my patience has left the building!! But the project is up and running and is proving to be a successful fund raiser, so that is what is important.

So now I am going to make myself a cup of tea, grab my cozy afghan and curl up on the couch with a good book for a few hours before I have to get ready to go to work…you know...the real job that pays the bills.

Still living large and waiting for my ship to come in…………Jan

Pink Phoenix Gala Event....Come and Join Us

2009-09-28T20:21:00.000-07:00

I am SO EXCITED....I am going to attend the traveling Bratistes Bra Show and hopefully win one of these gorgeous, artistic creations. Please join us....just call the the number(s) below to get your tickets.

This year the Pink Phoenix team has created a traveling Bratistes Bra Show. All Bra's will be up for auction at the upcoming event . In addition to the custom art bras, we’ll be auctioning two cabin nights at Netart Bay, Oregon and a dog friendly vacation cabin on the Washougal River in Washington. Other auction items include various art including work by Heidi Marble, a 4-hour garden cleanup, a private lesson for challah making, a pampering basket and much more.

Saturday, October 3, 2009 7-10 pm
Montgomery Park , 2701 NW Vaughn St Portland Oregon

The evening will offer fun for all with live music from Tezeta Band, a seven piece Ethiopian Band and scrumptious fare by "Food in Bloom" . Tickets are $40 per person when ordered in advance or $50.00 at the door. Please contact either Rebecca Hamilton (503.253.7475) or Jo Maj (360.636.5088)

Are You Interested in Pink Phoenix? Please Join us for our New Member’s Meeting on October 19, 2009 at 6:30 pm at Emanuel Hospital – Lorenzen Auditorium302 N Graham, Portland, OR

Fulfilling the Promise One Stroke at a Time Pink Phoenix is preparing for the Row for the Cure Dragonboat Race in Portland, Oregon on Oct 4, 2009. This is the last race of the season and the course is a whopping . 2000 meters long. This race is sponsored by the Susan Komen foundation.

Hope to see you there, Jan

Inspiration For All .... One Dream

2009-09-24T19:47:00.001-07:00

This is such a beautiful song .... I just had to share ... wishing this for everyone. One Dream by Sarah McLachlan. Count and enjoy your many, many blessings, Jan

Sarah McLachlan - One Dream by nettwerkmusicgroup

October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month ... Phone a Friend

2009-09-16T18:23:00.000-07:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and I am starting a

PHONE A FRIEND CAMPAIGN

Please phone (or email) one friend and remind them to make an appointment to get their mammogram. If everyone just phones one friend, think of the impact we can make!! And while you're at it, please also ask them to read this blog and pass the word along about IBC.

We all read the news articles about strides that are being made in breast cancer research. You are diligent about your yearly mammogram and you check for lumps, so you think you have done everything you can do to detect breast cancer early.

But did you know there is a breast cancer that it typically strikes younger women? Did you know there usually is not a lump and it probably will not show up on a mammogram? Did you know it is often misdiagnosed?

It is called Inflammatory Breast Cancer otherwise know as IBC. It is a rare form of breast cancer (less than 5 percent of cases), but it is extremely aggressive. It occurs in the lymphatic vessels in the breast, where tumor cells block the vessels and cause swelling. The breast may appear discolored, warm and swollen, and larger than the other breast. The skin may have the texture of an orange peel. The nipple may be inverted. IBC can develop quickly, sometimes within weeks, and it is sometimes misdiagnosed as a breast infection called mastitis.

If you have any of these symptoms see your health care professional immediately. Always consult your health care professional about any unusual changes or symptoms to your breasts. If you are treated for a breast infection and see no changes after a week; be diligent - go back to your doctor and insist on further testing.

….and also please note, that although it's important to be aware of possible IBC symptoms, remember that it is rare and most other breast cancers are still identified through mammograms. So continue to get your regular mammograms. Pay attention to changes in your breasts and take good care of yourself. Please phone just one friend today and tell them about this….the life you save may be of someone you love.

Many, many blessings to all, Jan

* Please note this blog is not written by health care professional, just a mother of a survivor of IBC whose main reason for writing is to get the word out about IBC.

North to Alaska .... Again!!

2009-09-12T21:15:00.000-07:00

Once again I am going to be in tears soon as my precious granddaughter has decided to move north to Alaska. I know in my heart this is a good thing ... she will have a new adventure in her young life and she will find an exciting new job and make tons of new friends. This IS a good thing. This past year being so far away when her mom was going through cancer treatment was hard on her, so I know she wants to be closer to her mom. But that puts her farther away from me and that makes me sad.

But there was no time for tears today!! She had a fabulous Going Away party and it was great fun! It was a costume party - the best dressed "Alaskan" won a prize!!! So it was an incentive to hit the Goodwill stores and find the perfect outfit!!! I hope some of these ridiculous pictures don't make you laugh too hard.

Our only experience of Alaska has been as a tourist....so guess what....we were tourists!!! We went all out and tried to find the most ridiculous outfits we could find!! I even found "cruise ship" earrings to make my outfit complete!!

Jess was "Sarah Palin" and Nick was a "LumberJack". It was great fun and thanks to Jess and Nick and some of the antics of their great friends, I didn't shed any tears today!! The tears will come later....but there will be tears of joy too as I know this great adventure to the great land of Alaska is what they want and need!!

Plus it will give me more to write about in this blog as stories about their new endeavors flood my email inbox. But don't forget, occasionally you will have to listen to my lonely heart bleed a little too and I know many of my readers understand.

Still counting my many blessings, Jan

Inflammatory Breast Cancer - A Race for the Cure!!!

2009-09-10T20:28:00.000-07:00

Once again Inflammatory Breast Cancer is in the news....and this time it is a good thing. The more IBC is in the news....the better. We have to get the word out...we have to make sure all health care professionals know about this cancer....we have to save lives.

Please take the time to watch this video and pass it on....the life you save may be your own or someone you love.

Making this short tonight so you can share this ..... many blessings, Jan

This Is What a Cancer Survivor Looks Like.......

2009-08-30T08:10:00.000-07:00

Running has never been my forte'......and certainly RUNNING in the RAIN doesn't sound like much fun....but when you are determined to be a survivor it is what you do!!

And Julie and Ken kicked butt in the Alaska Cancer Connection Beat the Odds 5K Run yesterday!!!!

It has just been 16 months since Julie has been diagnosed with Inflammatory Breast Cancer and here she is RUNNING in a 5K race with her wonderful supportive husband Ken!! Yes, you read this right.....she RAN!! She continues to amaze me....and about a million other people! This past year has been horrible (to say the least) for them both and here they are are.....surviving and celebrating life.

Just in case you can't see what her shirt says, it says "These boobs are fake, my real ones tried to kill me". Ken's shirt says "Cancer Sucks"!! These two are working hard to make everyone aware of breast cancer and IBC and that you can survive! Julie has also been asked to be the Survivor Chair for the ACS Relay for Life in Juneau. So she will be busy for sure....but that is what keeps this Energizer Bunny going!!

You go girl!!! I am so proud of you! You continue to amaze and inspire me! And thank you Ken for standing by her side and continuing to run the race of life with her!!!

Once again, a proud mom today, Jan

Meeting the Governor, Sean Parnell......

2009-08-26T19:00:00.000-07:00

This is the new governor of Alaska, Sean Parnell, with my beautiful daughter Julie!!!

The governor was in Juneau for the First Annual Picnic so Julie was able to meet him. She works for the state of Alaska and the staff in her office treated her amazingly well while she was going through her cancer treatment for Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC), so this was a good opportunity for her to say thanks in person to the new ‘boss’ of Alaska.

I know everyone has high hopes for the new governor so it will be enjoyable for me to watch what he does for the citizens of the great state of Alaska. I am not a political person, but it is fun when you ‘almost know’ the person. Perhaps I will have the opportunity to meet him too when we visit Juneau next time.

What is more amazing to me though is how wonderful Julie looks!! Like I told her, if I didn’t know first hand the hell that she went through this past year battling Inflammatory Breast Cancer, I would never believe she had ever had cancer. She has fought back and won – you can tell just by looking at that smiling, happy face.

For all of you fighting the battle right now and for all of you survivors out there – this is what Kickin’ Cancer’s Ass looks like!!!! And this is what wonderful cancer treatments and new modern medicines can do and what all of your thoughts and prayers have done…..so

We are still thanking and appreciating you all daily, Jan

Berries, berries & more berries....move over Martha Stewart!!

2009-08-23T19:18:00.000-07:00

What have I done...what was I thinking?? After a trip to our local farmer’s market on Saturday; I came home loaded down with tons of berries…. blueberries, marion berries and blackberries. I mean over 50 pounds of berries. OMG!!!!

We love berries and have been getting flats of blueberries for the past few weeks and eating them on and in everything. We toss them on our cereal, in yogurt and I have made tons of blueberry muffins to share with friends and family.

But today I made freezer jam….it is so easy. I have a dozen jars of beautiful, fresh marion berry jam in my freezer and I am anxious to stock up on more canning jars so I can make some more. I have never canned anything in my life, so this was a tad bit intimidating. If I would have known how easy it was, I would have done it years ago.

I have always been a city girl and a working woman, so there has never been time in my schedule for canning and preserving food. Now I am busy searching for more recipes so I can use all the berries I have froze this year. The plan is to make more marion berry jam as it is absolutely delicious. Then strawberry-banana jam and pomegranate jelly. If you have any ideas or easy recipes for this novice, please leave them in the comments section as I am open to new ideas.

Berries are full of antioxidants (to keep cancer away) so we will save lots of our frozen berries to enjoy this winter too. And the farmer's market is still open for weeks to come...so you never know what new ideas I may come up with. My hubby keeps asking "who are you and what have you done with my wife?" Move over Martha, here I come...next I am going to tackle making a homemade blueberry pie!!

Enjoying nature's bountiful blessings, Jan

You've Just Gotta See This......

2009-08-17T20:02:00.000-07:00

Bratistes' Traveling BRA Show
Providence Cancer Center Library

Portland, Oregon

August 17th - September 4th 9-4
It's "free"--open to the public –

don’t miss it!!

These 'bras' have been designed by breast cancer survivors. These artistic bras are amazing ~ but the story that accompanies each piece of art are even more amazing. This dog bra is called "Woman's Best Friends"--love it! This show is present by the awesome Pink Phoenix dragon boat team. If you are in the area, please try to visit this show ~ it will inspire you.

Sending good thoughts to all today, Jan

Beating the Odds..................

2009-08-13T08:46:00.000-07:00

My daughter never ceases to amaze me in her quest to celebrate her survivorship from Inflammatory Breast Cancer. As were chatting via email, as we do because of the distance between us, she remarked about the training she is doing so she can run, yes I said RUN, in Juneau’s Cancer Connection “Beat The Odds” Relay on August 29, 2009.

Her exact words were “I ran an entire mile yesterday without stopping…..then walked 5 minutes and than ran another mile and then walked at an incline for 10 minutes and the slow walk for 5 minutes...I kept telling myself that I went through cancer treatment, I CAN DO IT...I was hurting to get through it but I did it...I only have two weeks to be able to run three miles for the Cancer Connection..I CAN DO IT!!!!”

Now for those of you that are just tuning in, Julie battled IBC last year and just completed treatment in February of this year – in fact, just one year ago today she was having surgery, which was followed by chemo, radiation, and more chemo. As a mom who is always trying to protect their young, my inclination is to tell her she is doing too much, to take it easy, to take care of herself….but she has a mind of her own and a very strong willed so I also know she can do it – because she already has Beat the Odds!

I am so very proud and happy that she has connected with other survivors and is sharing her story. I was thrilled to see that the Cancer Connection in Juneau had a direct link on their website about Inflammatory Breast Cancer and they are doing all they can do to help everyone in Alaska “Beat the Odds”.

Please keep Julie in your thoughts as she runs her first 5K. And if you can, join her on August 29th and cheer her on as she continues her journey to Beat the Odds and Kick Cancer’s Ass!!!

A very proud mom today, Jan

The BIG EVENT is here … RELAY FOR LIFE

2009-08-06T15:31:00.000-07:00

Did you know that there are 11 million cancer survivors who are alive in the United States today?

That’s 11 million reasons to celebrate!

And what better way to honor these survivors than by joining the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life®? The atmosphere at Relay is like a carnival - there are lots of games and prizes and fundraisers happening at the event as well as the survivor walk, the lighting of the luminaries, entertainment and tons of fun.

Our family knows first hand how the American Cancer Society® helps families with extraordinary expenses when faced with the devastating diagnosis of cancer … so our goal is to pay it back … and pay forward to help others.

Did you know the American Cancer Society® provides free temporary lodging to patients and their caregivers who must travel far from home to get quality cancer treatment at its Hope Lodge® facilities? To find a Hope Lodge and learn more about this resource, call the American Cancer Society toll free at 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit http://www.cancer.org/

And come out to our event and join the fun and inspiring stories. If you haven’t had the opportunity to donate yet, please do that here.

Sporting my “purple survivor t-shirt” I am, CELEBRATING, REMEMBERING and FIGHTING BACK.

Wishing you good health always, Jan

Writer's Block....Now That's a Switch

2009-08-01T13:19:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone.....I am suffering from an unusual case of writer's block....and for someone who normally has so much to say....that is extremely unusual. Perhaps it is because I have been on information overload lately or because we have been so busy with outdoor chores and summer picnics and parties. Our local Relay for Life is next week and I am winding down the fundraising for that project too, so just a reminder, if you want to help me make my goal....click here.

Whatever the reason is for my writer's block, I do feel guilty for not posting more on the blog lately. There has been lots in the news this week about cancer from tanning beds and I don't want to besiege you with more information about that. You can read the MSN article here.....and I have to say....this is true and you need to heed their warnings. I have (had) been a sun worshipper in my younger years and when tanning beds first came out I was thrilled. Then the big "C" became a regular part of my life and my vocabulary. A few years ago my doctor told me I had a "suspicious" looking mole on my forehead....and low and behold it turned out to be cancerous. Thank God it was just in a very early stage and a quick office procedure removed it and left me with only a mild scar that I can hide with bangs. I was told to NEVER, EVER go in a tanning bed again. So in my quest to educate on this blog, I am passing that advice on to everyone.

One of my personal goals is to never stop learning....and I learned something very important today. As I was getting my outfit ready for a wedding reception we are attending this evening, I asked my hubby if he needed anything ironed. His response - you are going to love this - "yes, but I know you are busy, so I will iron it". WHAT - after over 14 years together he is just now telling me he can iron!!! Ladies......a good lesson learned here....I never asked him in all these years if he knew how to iron....only if he needed something ironed. And, being the wonderful husband he is, he always tried to please by saying "yes".

Now I am wondering if he really knows how to cook??????

Pleasant weekend wishes to all, Jan

We All Need Some Inspiration ....

2009-07-26T19:16:00.000-07:00

Today's post is for some very "special" people in our lives .... some of those have just been diagnosed with cancer: some of those are under going treatment that is working and they are getting good news; some of those know their time here on earth is short and they are suffering; and some of those are the dedicated caregivers to these friends, relatives and fellow bloggers. As you enjoy this video, please remember to say your prayers for everyone who is or has battled this devastating disease and send positive, healing thoughts their way.

Praying for a Cure, Jan

When Someone You Love Has Cancer

2009-07-24T01:00:00.000-07:00

CANCER ~ one of the deadliest words spoken in modern times. The disease and side effects of treatment break the hearts of onlookers, leaving caregivers and family members feeling helpless and useless in knowing how to help their loved ones.

Cecil Murphey, author of 90 Minutes in Heaven and a seasoned ghostwriter of more than 100 books, has written a loving inspirational book for cancer caregivers and family members ~ When Someone You Love Has Cancer. Cec isn't new to cancer. His intimate care for his wife as she fought cancer is evident on the pages of this sweetly written book. From the cover of this beautifully illustrated book to the closing remarks, he guides caregivers through a gentle question and answer session. Prayers for difficult situations are scattered throughout the book and personal illustrations from cancer caregivers help validate and encourage readers.

A Word from The Man Behind the Words .....“When Shirley walked in from the garage, she didn't have to say a word: I read the diagnosis in her eyes. I grabbed her and held her tightly for several seconds. When I released her, she didn't cry. The unshed tears glistened, but that was all………. That's why I wrote When Someone You Love Has Cancer. I want to encourage relatives and friends and also to offer practical suggestions as they stay at the side of those they love”.

I encourage you to order When Someone You Love Has Cancer ~ A Treatment of Encouragement and a Prognosis of Hope.

Order several copies ~ order it for yourself, as a gift and even as a donation for your local Cancer Treatment Center. Click on any title of the book in this blog post and see the specials Amazon.com is now offering.

Always here to educate, entertain and encourage you……Jan

Just Reflecting Today...........

2009-07-22T12:08:00.000-07:00

Don't regret growing older. It is a privilege denied by many....... Anonymous

I am just reflecting today.......I lost another family member and it sucks. This quote is so appropriate and I am so thankful I am growing up to be an old woman.

Enjoy Life to the Fullest!! Jan

Relay for Life … Good Times In Juneau

2009-07-16T18:53:00.000-07:00

UPDATE ~ Together Julie & Ken raised almost $1,000 for the the cause. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your generous donations in the support of their efforts to fight cancer by participating in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life®. We hope you know how much we appreciate your generosity and how proud we are to have people in my life who care about such an important cause. Together, we are making progress and together, we will defeat cancer.

Julie will be walking in her first ACS Relay for Life this weekend … as a first time participant and as a survivor!! And she is busy fund raising for her team. For all cancer survivors the Relay has special meaning … it is a way for us to celebrate, remember and fight back.

When you hear "celebrate" and "cancer" in the same sentence in may be confusing to some. But the devastating diagnosis and treatment of cancer tends to brings out the best in people … they appreciate life more; they give more and they do more. It is a way to honor and remember those we have lost. And it is a way to fight back by funding groundbreaking cancer research, providing up-to-date cancer information, being advocates for all people to have access to screening and treatment, and offer free programs and services to improve the quality of life for people facing cancer.

We all know Julie will be the life of the party at the Juneau Relay for Life. Her personal story of her battle with Inflammatory Breast Cancer is inspiring and we all know she is winning this battle because of her awesome attitude and her terrific sense of humor. She is well aware that having a bilateral mastectomy for her is like Don King getting a hair cut … people noticed the change. But that hasn’t stopped her from living life to the fullest, sharing her story, and helping others.

Now won’t you help Julie by donating to the cause? Will you help her be the top fund raiser on her team? Please help her find a cure. Please click here to donate.

And if you can, please join the celebration on July 18 & 19 from noon to noon at 2901 Riverside Drive, Juneau, Alaska.

As always, Julie’s proud mom, Jan

Waiting for Wings ~ Another Miracle

2009-07-12T13:28:00.000-07:00

It always amazes me how “God Works in Mysterious Ways”. I was searching the internet this week for any new information about Inflammatory Breast Cancer as our goal is to keep our readers informed of this devastating disease and any new medical breakthroughs or miracles that may have happened.

In my search I found another survivor – and she only lives a few miles down the highway from me. Her name is Heidi Marble and she has written a wonderful book about her personal battle with IBC. In addition to the book, she has started a unique form of art: taking jewelry donated by cancer patients and their families and putting them on mannequins. The display and sale of this art has helped bring attention to our cause and helped fund a lot of patients' basic needs. The artwork is also available for purchase or rent as a motivation for people to donate to the fight against breast cancer.

The title of her book is Waiting for Wings and you can purchase this book or view her artwork by clicking on the title of this blog or on the title of the book. You can also see sample pages of the book by clicking on this link. Her website is http://www.waitingforwings.com/

Below are some reviews of her book and if you or a friend has Inflammatory Breast Cancer, this book is an inspiring story of survival and I encourage you to purchase copies for yourself and to give as gifts.

“Unlike other books, “Waiting for Wings” is a blend of photographs, narrative and poetry. The book is an aching account of a mother’s determination to survive not only for her son, but her husband and ultimately herself. The story offers deep insight into the human potential that resides in each one of us.”

“Waiting for Wings" is an extraordinary book about Heidi Marble’s journey through breast cancer. With words and pictures, she presents an unflinching honest portrait of her experience. There are no pink ribbons in this book; instead, there is beauty, truth and hope.”

Many blessings to all of you as we continue to find more miracles, Jan

Sisters At Heart .....You Are In Our Prayers

2009-07-06T20:52:00.000-07:00

Our thoughts are with another "sister" tonight. She is a young mother with four children facing a diagnosis of Inflammatory Breast Cancer.

We "met" through our blog and even though she lives thousands of miles away and we may never meet in person, she is still one of our sisters in her battle against this devastating diagnosis and our hearts go out to her and her family.

She has endured months of chemotherapy and is now going facing surgery this week to remove her diseased breast. We know how hard this is for her. We understand her fears and sense of loss. We sympathize with her and we are praying for her. We are praying for her husband so he can remain strong and help her win this war. We pray for her children as they are all too young to understand what is happening to their mommy. And we pray that a cure for IBC is found soon so that she survives ... so she can dance at her daughter's weddings ... so she becomes a grandma someday to her young son's children ... so she can grow up to be an old, old woman and celebrate her 50th wedding anniversary.

We are all sisters at heart in this fight against breast cancer. Please say a prayer for her and for all women who are fighting for their lives against Inflammatory Breast Cancer and all other forms of Breast Cancer. You are in our thoughts and prayers Lynne...... and we know that very, very soon you will be on the 'survivor's list' also.

You are in our Lovin' Prayers, Jan & Julie

Independence Day ... a new meaning!!!

2009-07-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July everyone! We will be celebrating just like most of you with parades, BBQ’s and fireworks and hoping that you are doing the same.

“Independence Day” has a new meaning this year. Julie is FREE from CANCER and those of us that love her are FREE from WORRY. As cancer survivors, the thought that the cancer may come back never goes away. We pray daily that it never returns and for now we are celebrating our own version of “Independence Day”!!

We know how lucky we have been as a family over the past few years. We have been given far more time together. We have had lots of good times and a few not-so-good times. I have no doubt that our positive attitudes have helped and we will continue to find the positive in everything that happens. It's the hard times that bring a family together so we will continue to embrace this time.

I want to share a poem with you today…..I do not know the author and I hope that I am not infringing on any copy write laws, but this just tells it like it is so I thank the author for his/her words of wisdom.

Life is too short to wake up with regrets.
So love the people who treat you right.
Love the ones who don't just because you can.
Believe everything happens for a reason.
If you get a second chance, Grab it with both hands.
If it changes your life, let it.
Kiss slowly.
Forgive quickly.
God never said life would be easy.
He just promised it would be worth it.

Wishing you a happy, eventful, fun and safe 4th of July ~ remember today is the first day of the rest of your life. Jan

An Angel Got Her Wings ... Farrah Fawcett

2009-06-28T18:50:00.000-07:00

An angel got her wings this week and it broke my heart. As cancer survivor’s we want to believe that everyone can be a survivor. Farrah Fawcett's death has been overshadowed by the tabloid king's death. I am sorry that Michael died but I do not think his death is more deserving of all the media hype.

We had just watched Farrah's documentary of her illness, treatment and struggles a few weeks ago. Our hearts went out to her, to her son, to the love of her life Ryan O’Neal, and to her family and friends. We knew to expect the worse, but it is was so hard to hear the news – we were hoping for a miracle.

Dr. Jerri Nielson also lost her battle with breast cancer this week. She was the doctor who treated her own breast cancer in the Antarctica about 10 years ago at a research station in the South Pole. We had learned of Jerri's struggle with being so far away from treatment that she had to administer chemo to herself. What a brave woman she was and what an inspiration to those of us that have battled breast cancer.

What true superstars these ladies were and true icons to be admired and looked up to. These two very special ladies were our heroes. All of us survivors are fighters and we have won the battle so far and will continue to fight each obstacle that comes before us.

Thank you Farrah and Jerri for letting us into your lives and sharing your personal struggles and stories with all us. You have given so many people the courage to push on. And you have given us all another reason to continue our to raise money for research and clinical trials; to educate and inform everyone we come in contact with; and to find a cure for all cancer’s in our lifetime.

Wishing for miracles for everyone, Jan

Remission Rocks!!!

2009-06-12T19:53:00.000-07:00

Finally ... REALLY, REALLY GOOD NEWS ... after several stressful days, tons of tests and countless doctor visits, the doctor gave Julie the results of her PET and CT scans today - no sign of any cancer anywhere!!! The spots on her lung and spine are gone!! Usually you don't hear "Good" and "Chemo" in the same sentence, but you will here - all that nasty poison did the trick!!!

So she is NED - no evidence of disease!!! She will have check ups every six months, has to continue her monthly Zometa infusion for 5 years, and take Tamoxifen the rest of her life - but she is cancer free!!! She can't have reconstruction for at last a year, so she has time to decide which route she wants to take on that.

So we will be very busy this week ... celebrating ... in Vegas!!! Wish us luck ... this is our lucky week so we hope to hit it big in Vegas too!!

Celebrate Life ... Every Day!! Jan

Graduation ... and a new beginning!!!

2009-06-12T19:41:00.000-07:00

I apologize for this short post ~ but this is going to be a very, very busy week. As you all know Julie is headed down to Seattle for her first six month check up ... so that alone is stressful.

BUT the BIG NEWS of the week is that Jessica ~ my wonderful, adorable, very lovable granddaughter (and Julie's pride and joy) is graduating from Portland State University on Saturday!!! Graduation is not the end however ... it is actually the beginning of the next new chapter in her life. We are all so proud of her ... she has done an amazing job even through all the stress and adversity of her mom's battle with cancer and has grown into a fabulous young women. We are all beaming with pride!!

After the big celebration party on Saturday afternoon ... "just us girls" are off to Las Vegas for four luxurious days!!! We all deserve this special vacation after the year we have had and we intend to enjoy it to the fullest. Of course, as you all know ... the estrogen will be flowing heavily, so hopefully we will all still love each other after four days together.

I promise to post pictures of Jess' graduation and the party as soon as life gets back to normal. I am not making any promises on pictures from Vegas however ... remember what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!!!

Remember to Celebrate Life Everyday, Jan

Did You Ever Know You Were My Hero?

2009-06-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

I was shopping today and noticed the Father’s Day cards … unfortunately I lost my father many years ago, but it made me realize how thankful I am for the men in my life.

When both my daughter and I were diagnosed with cancer, our hubby’s stood by our sides. We know how lucky we are and even though we don’t always show it, we appreciate them so much.

The main difference between a man and a woman is that men like to fix things….women need to vent first and then they will fix things themselves. So when dealing with the cancer demon that their spouse has just been dealt, men need to put their gut need to fix things aside and learn to be a compassionate listener and supporter. That is not always easy and we will change our mind of what we want or need in a nano-second! We know this ~ however we hardly ever admit it.

After someone hears the dreaded words “you have cancer” it is really hard to absorb much else; at least in the beginning. Hearing those words is a huge emotional blow which makes it hard to keep up day to day. My suggestion is to be there for her; be the second set of ears at doctor appointments. Do something nice for her ~ run a load or two of laundry ~ vacuum the floors ~ make dinner or bring dinner home one night ~ all without being asked.

Know that you are wonderful. Know that your wife knows that and appreciates you, but right now she is scared and confused and needs to vent. We always use those we love the most to vent at because we know they will listen, comfort us and love us without taking the anger too personally. Every woman is different and each one moves at her own pace so let your wife lead you to what she needs at this time.

Know that the anger is not directed at you but she needs to give it to you so you can help her deal with it. That just mean she trusts you more than anyone else in her life to help her. So keep up the good work in not venting back at her. I suggest you take time to read the book "The Breast Cancer Husband" by Marc Silver. It is available at Amazon.

And know that you are our heroes – our unsung heroes ~ and we love you, Jan

Lots of Good Days ... A Few Bad Moments ...

2009-05-31T13:37:00.000-07:00

Julie is busy making appointments for her "first after treatment check-ups". First there are the flight and hotel arrangements since she has to fly from Juneau to Seattle for the appointments. Then there is what seems like the never-ending series of appointments. There will be CAT scans and PET scans and blood tests and meetings with the oncologists and the surgeons and the consultations with the plastic surgeons and other doctors for second opinions. It will be a very stressful and busy time for her, and a nail-biting week or the rest of us as we wait for the results.

She is like all of us who have been treated for breast cancer and is on pins and needles right now. Her nerves are understandably on edge. All cancer survivors have two things in common, no matter what kind of cancer we have had or kind of treatment we endure; first is the acceptance of the diagnosis – the shock and overwhelming “Oh my God, I’m going to die” moment. The second are those nasty "cancer demons". Those thoughts and fears in your mind that your cancer will come back. When you have had cancer, no matter how far past treatment you are, there’s always that little voice in your head: “What’s this pain in my side? liver cancer?” “Could this headache be brain cancer?” “My back is killing me… cancer?”

As breast cancer survivors, we know by heart those four common places it can travel; bone, brain, liver, lungs. Therefore, any little ache or pain involving those areas reawakens the cancer demons in your head. You talk yourself out of it and you go on with your day but the fear is always there, lingering in the back of your mind.

Julie is trying not to let the demons get her down. She is doing a great job getting on with her life. She goes to work every day, is living life to the fullest and stays very, very busy. And if she has a bad moment, or a bad day and the demons take over momentarily – we all understand since we are all in this fight with her and so many of us are facing those same damn demons.

So my appeal to you today is ~ if you know someone who is a cancer survivor or fighting cancer right now, please be there for them; be patient, be kind and be their friend when these demons come knocking. Send them flowers, take them to lunch, let them scream and cry and be their friend and sounding board. They will thank you for it later.

And don’t forget to count your many, many blessings ~ Jan

Happy, Happy Birthday Baby ....

2009-05-29T08:31:00.000-07:00

Today's post is just going to be short and sweet ...

I am off for a day of pampering!! I am taking my favorite granddaughter Jessica for a day of fun for her birthday!!! We are going to Starbucks, then getting pedicures, tossing in some shopping and then for a leisurely lunch by the waterfront in an outdoor cafe!!

She is 23 today - wow - where have the years gone!!! How the heck can she be 23 when I am still 39, or maybe that is 49, or 59 ....... or, yeah, older!!!

She is an amazing young women and we all love her deeply. Her mom, Julie, did an superb job of raising her and all her hard work and dedication to her daughter has paid off.

Well off to the races as they say....wishing all of you a fabulous day too.

Many, many blessing ... be sure count them all daily!! Jan

Listen Up ..... Answers to My Questions

2009-05-24T16:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone ~ I'm going to be on a radio show that is focusing just on IBC ~ Inflammatory Breast Cancer.

It will be on Wednesday, May 27 at 7pm PST.

They are going to have Dr. Lupe Salazar an oncologist from the University of Washington, who specializes in IBC. I have a couple of good questions that I'm going to ask and just tell a little bit of my story. I tried last month to get through but our connection wasn't good. They have purchased new equipment so they can connect with me and others that are in remote areas.

The show is on every month, the last Wednesday of the month. So please if you have time, listen and hopefully learn something about this disease that so many do not know about. Pass this along to those that might be interested and also tell your doctor. You could save someones life someday, like mine was because of others telling me about this disease when I first showed signs.

Click here to listen to the show and once again, thanks for all your continued support ...

Julie

Honor Your Heroes on This Memorial Day

2009-05-21T13:51:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day is a time of picnics, parties, parades and for honoring our heroes. We hope all of you are taking time to commemorate this special day with your family and friends and to place wreaths and flags on the graves of those we have lost.

Memorial Day has always been a day of unity — a time for Americans to come together in remembrance of our fallen heroes from wars past and present and to honor and support their loved ones whose lives have been altered forever. My father, my husband, my son-in-law and several uncles and cousins have all served in the military, and I thank them, as well as all of the others, for their service to our country.

We must also support our troops and their families, who need and deserve our care in this time of crisis. Family and friends who lose loved ones in America’s conflicts must learn to live with a hole in their hearts that cannot be filled. And for those who’s loved ones who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, modern warfare has caused new a kind of loss. In today’s battlefield soldiers are returning home with wounds, both seen and unseen, that can severely compromise hopes for the future or even end any possibility of leading a full life.

If you would like to discover ways to help the wounded and their families, please click on this line.

In the meantime, please say a prayer for our soldiers and remember to honor them on Monday, May 25th.

God Bless America, Jan

Cancer Sucks ~ It Has Hit Home Again!!!

2009-05-17T19:52:00.000-07:00

I am writing this post with a heavy heart. Once again, cancer has reared it’s ugly head in our family. My sister-in-law has been diagnosed with Metastatic Breast Cancer, a Stage IV cancer. This is 14 years after her first battle with breast cancer. It is not fair and right now I want to kick and scream and ask God why. I know that God doesn’t cause this to happen, but why He hasn’t let all the doctors and researchers find a cure for this monster is beyond my comprehension.

Today my sister-in-law is in good spirits and is not in pain. She has done her research and knows what the odds are, and at this time she is determined to live with cancer. I am sure she will have those days when it is hard to accept this prognosis, but I know she is going to fight this fight with grace and dignity. She is a strong and resilient and has an amazing support system in our family.

Our family; both on my side and my husband’s side have been riddled with cancer and it makes one wonder why. I am sure there are other families that have numerous family members that have been diagnosed with cancer, but for right now we are feeling singled out and vulnerable.

The numbers are astounding; me, my daughter, 4 of my 5 sister-in-laws, my mother, my father, 3 uncles and 4 aunts. That totals 15 people diagnosed in the last 15 years. If you add to that the numerous friends that have fought the battle as well, it just doesn’t seem fair. Some have survived, some have not. We are not all from the same area; we did not all eat the same diet; most of us were not smokers, there is no constant in our lives. So why our family and friends?

I don’t have an answer and I probably never will know. One thing I do know is that I will continue my quest and do what I can to get the word out, to raise money for awareness and research. Like my sister-in-law so profoundly put it “please keep me in your thoughts and prayers, and make cancer research your charity of choice“.

Tonight cancer really sucks but “many blessings” is still my mantra, because I am blessed and I hope you are realizing you are too. Jan

Gardening Sucks & Life Is Too Short ...

2009-05-14T18:59:00.000-07:00

It is no secret ... I do not like (no, I hate) yard work and gardening … and my husband and I share that opinion – in fact he hates it worse than I do. I do love and appreciate a beautiful yard and beautiful flowers however, and I want my yard to look like one of those gorgeous ones shown in the Sunset magazine (the photo is not my yard - it is my 'wanna be yard'). It probably won’t happen in my lifetime unless one of two things happen; one I win the Lotto and can hire an expert to do it or; two, my hubby suddenly has a change of heart on his love of getting his hands dirty. I’m not holding my breath ~ but I am keeping the gardening magazines nearby.

The weather is going to be in the 70’s this weekend here in the PNW – a perfect time to do yard work and gardening. But I am not going to do it … I need some sunshine and some fun! I am not sure what we are going to do … but I am taking my cue from Erma Bombeck!!! She wrote this when she found out she was dying from cancer. I am realizing life is too short so I am taking time out for ME this weekend and learning some new life lessons in my golden years … I hope you do too!!!

IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER

I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.

I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.

I would have talked less and listened more.

I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.

I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.

I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.

I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.

I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.

I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle. ?

When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, 'Later. Now go get washed up for dinner.' There would have been more 'I love you's' and more 'I'm sorry's.'

But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute, look at it and really see it, live it and never give it back. STOP SWEATING THE SMALL STUFF!!! Erma Bombeck

Pleasant and sunny weekend blessings, Jan

Through Our Eyes

2009-05-11T20:20:00.000-07:00

I am so excited ... as you all know my life quest has become to be an advocate for spreading the word about and finding a cure for Inflammatory Breast Cancer aka IBC.

Tonight I had the nicest, long chat with Patti Bradfield - the founder of Erase IBC. Patti is an extremely strong advocate for IBC as she lost her daughter Tina to IBC ... so as mothers whose lives have been touched by this devastating cancer, we had a lot in common and lots to talk about.

She is an amazing woman and has made awesome strides in the fight against IBC. Patti shared both personal thoughts and professional information that I am hoping will be helpful to Julie in her fight with this monster.

Please take a moment to check out Patti's website Erase IBC and be sure to listen to her next radio broadcast.

And stay tuned and add our blog to your favorites....as we will share all the information we can about the new treatment options we explore in the future

Many blessings, Jan

Why Didn't I Think of That....

2009-05-05T18:54:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard or seen something and wondered “why didn’t I think of that?” I received an email this week ~ reminding me to honor and remember all the special women in my life this Mother’s Day by making a donation to the American Cancer Society.

My mother passed away from cancer (as did my dad) over 15 years ago ~ and not once did I ever think about honoring them with a donation. I have flowers placed on their graves several times a year, I work diligently on the Relay for Life and honor them with luminaries, but why I never made a donation in their honor on ‘their’ day ~ is beyond me. I am ashamed of myself.

This Mother's Day, I am joining ACS and inviting you to honor and remember all the special women in your life by giving a donation to your American Cancer Society. When you make your gift, they will send the person you honor or a designated recipient an embossed personalized card, notifying them of your thoughtful contribution.

As we save lives from cancer, what we are really doing is giving mothers, daughters, sisters and friends more of their most precious commodity ~ time. More time with their family and friends and more milestones ~ like more Mother's Days and more birthdays. We're all working to create a world with more birthdays ~ and less cancer ~ for everyone.

Instead of buying flowers or candy this Mother's Day (or in addition to) you can help save lives and create a future with more birthdays and more Mother's Days. Together, we can save lives every day by helping people stay well, helping people get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back against a disease that has taken too much from all of us already!

So this is a BIG HINT to my kids ... I don't need anymore stuff ... make a donation in my honor so that all of us can be cancer free and so that I can be around to drive you all crazy when I am an old, old woman. Happy Mother’s Day to all, Jan

Julie Was on The Radio!!! Erase IBC!

2009-05-03T12:35:00.000-07:00

Julie was on the radio on Wednesday night for debut of the Erase IBC radio show...unfortunately there were connection issues so she didn't get to tell her story. BUT the show was very informative!! And they will be having this radio broadcast - with new information about IBC every month - so hopefully she will be on there another time.

Click on the title of this page or any of the links I have included; it will bring you to the Erase IBC website and you will be able to download the podcast. It is an hour long...so do this when you have time to listen. This a public service radio program, so not the best quality but these ladies gave a ton of information. And just like we found out in Julie's journey with IBC...there are still too many doctors that do not know about Inflammatory Breast Cancer!! Too many women are being misdiagnosed and too many women are dying. This needs to change...so our job is to pass the word.

So please tune-in and pass this along...as in the beginning, our purpose for this blog is to educate everyone about IBC and save lives.

Sunny Sunday Blessings to All, Jan

http://www.eraseibc.com/index.html

Sharing Information....Finding a Cure!!

2009-05-02T11:56:00.000-07:00

I love it when I find new information and websites that share information about Breast Cancer. I stumbled accross this on Facebook a few months ago, and now I am happy to announce that Cindy Papale has a new website and a new book! The Empy Cup Runneth Over

If you are a breast cancer patient, survivor, or have a friend, mother or daughter who has been recently diagnosed, I strongly suggest that you click on the title of this page or the link below and check this out. Cindy is a breast cancer survivor and has done an amazing job and tons of research to help those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

I have ordered her book as she tells me it contains an IBC survivor story...and we are always looking for those. So check out her website and buy her book...for yourself or as a gift for a friend.

Wishing you a blessed weekend, Jan

http://www.theemptycuprunnethover.com/

IBC - Fact and Fallacies - Listen Tonight!!!!!

2009-04-29T08:13:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post today - I wanted to let everyone know that the Erase IBC Group will be having their first radio show tonight and they would love some letters and phone calls....so please tune in and ask all your friends to tune in. Get those questions ready - or if you are a survivor of IBC call in and give everyone hope!! Everyone is crossing thier fingers and hoping that they want them back again to do this every month.

IBC - Fact and Fallacies

April 29th

Debut ShowOn WTOE Internet Radio

By clicking the LINK BELOW on April 29th,

you can listen live to the show.

10 p.m. Eastern Time

http://www.thruoureyes.org/listen.html

You can also click on the title of this post to learn more about EraseIBC.com

Many blessings and tons of thanks!!! Jan

This Is My Week .... To Think Pink!!

2009-04-23T18:27:00.000-07:00

This week I have been doing a ton of "pink ribbon" things. We sold 48 bears for our Relay for Life fundraiser. My hubby sold the majority - to, can you believe it, truck drivers. I will never stereotype truck drivers again!! They are a sensitive bunch of guys who have wives, girlfriends, daughters, sisters and mothers who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Thanks a ton fellas!! It is so appreciated!

Another thing I have been doing is clicking on the link to give free mammograms for women in need. Please join me. Your click on the "Click Here to Give" button helps fund free mammograms for women in need like low-income, inner-city and minority women whose awareness of breast cancer and opportunity for help is often limited. Just click on the title of this post and it will bring your right to the site.

Your click is paid for by site sponsors, and mammogram funding is provided to clinics throughout the U.S. through the efforts of the National Breast Cancer Foundation. With a simple, daily click of the pink "Click Here to Give - it's FREE" button at The Breast Cancer Site, visitors help to provide free mammograms for women in need. Visitors pay nothing. Mammograms are provided by our charitable partners. Please try to click every day to fund free mammograms and give hope to women in need. Every click counts toward the goal of early detection, which allows for the best possible treatment options.

Well I am off to do more fund raising - my goal is to find a cure - not only for cancer, but specifically for Inflammatory Breast Cancer!! Again, please join me - donate to my Relay for Life page or buy a bear - see my links in the margin. Join a cancer walk, send a check to the American Cancer Society, help someone who is battling breast cancer right now. Do your part - you will be a better person because of it.

Many blessings and please THINK PINK!! Jan

Attitude with Gratitude … It's Contagious!!

2009-04-19T19:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was an exceptional day and I spent time with several cancer survivors. They all reminded me in different ways how our attitude can make such a difference in our lives. These women all have such amazing strength and are so very courageous.

One of them, an eleven year breast cancer survivor, is turning 59 soon and is thankful. How many of us can actually say we are thankful to be getting older? She says she is ‘thankful’ because as she says “I never thought I would have lived this long”. I knew this gal when she was first diagnosed with cancer and she never has felt sorry for herself….she tirelessly works on fund raising for the American Cancer Society’s Relay of Life, and many, many other organizations in our community. She has an amazing Attitude with Gratitude.

Another very young cancer survivor is going through her second bout with breast cancer and is presently going through treatment. She does not know what the future holds for her at this time. She has a young son she is raising, and not once did we detect any self-pity. She is matter-of-fact, knows what she needs to do, and is her own advocate. She is amazingly strong and seeks out information about her treatment options and is making her own health care assessments on what will be best for her. She too practices Attitude with Gratitude and I am in awe of her.

The things many of us forget is that everyday may not be good, but there is good in every day and happiness is an attitude. We either make ourselves miserable, or happy and strong. The amount of work is the same. Making a difference in the world, in your city or in your neighborhood will make us all feel better – it a great accomplishment and it will make you proud of yourself and it will make you happy.

So today I challenge you to have an Attitude with Gratitude. Forget your troubles and help someone else. As Julie has said many times, “there is always someone worse off than you are.” This is the time of the year when there are many, many breast cancer fund raiser walks and events.

I challenge you to join, connect, unite, bond, walk, jog, run, donate, give, contribute, bestow, support, help, assist, pledge and commit to help find a cure for cancer.

Think Pink!! I am listing several popular causes below that are near and dear to my heart – choose one of these or start your own – but please do something so there will be a cure for breast cancer in our lifetime.

Relay for Life

Seattle 3-Day Walk / Susan G. Komen

Young Survival Coalition

Susan G. Komen

We should all live by the words of Gilda Radner “The goal is to live a full, productive life even with all that ambiguity. No matter what happens, whether the cancer never flares up again or whether you die, the important thing is that the days that you have had - you will have lived.”

I believe we should all strive for that legacy ~ many blessings, Jan

The Flowers Are Starting to Bloom.....

2009-04-16T09:28:00.000-07:00

...at least here in the PNW and I am very, very anxious for spring. In Alaska it is another story, but the snow is melting...slowly and the temperatures are rising...slowly.

Poor Julie...she is going to have to wait a month or two before she can clean her yard and plant her flowers. She is anxious to do that since she didn't get any time to work in her yard or plant flowers last year. So I am taunting her with my daily weather reports of our life 'down here'. It will probably make her homesick.

But for me...I am going to clean and rake and mow and and plant this weekend. The weatherman has promised temperatures in the 70's. Yeah!! Now I have to make choices...what to plant. Decisions, decisions...

Hoping you are enjoying pleasant spring weather wherever you are too.

Many Blessings & Blooms, Jan

When I Grow Up … I Wanna Be an Old Woman

2009-04-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

One year … 12 months … 52 weeks … 365 days … it seems like a lifetime ago … but one year ago today Julie was diagnosed with IBC. As you all know, it has been a turbulent, emotional, frightening and enlightening year.

We have all learned more about Inflammatory Breast Cancer than we ever wanted to know; we are all more about knowledgeable about cancer and cancer treatments than anyone without a doctorate degree should have to be in a lifetime; and we have met many wonderful, courageous, determined survivors on our voyage. Julie has been fortunate to have countless amazing doctors and nurses but has spent way too many hours, days, and weeks in hospitals, doctor’s offices and treatment centers than any of us want to remember.

But even after this tumultuous year, the outcome has turned out great! Julie has beaten this monster and is going to grow up to be a feisty, healthy, tenacious old woman!! She will tell you that she is a better person because of this journey. She is more patient, understanding and appreciative. She is enjoying life and has become an advocate for all women who have heard the devastating diagnosis “you have breast cancer”.

So, pour yourself a glass of bubbly, turn up the sound on your speakers and help me celebrate today. This year long journey is over … but certainly not forgotten. We will continue to chronicle our stories; we will continue to try and entertain, educate and enlighten our readers as the hours, days and years pass … and as my little girl grows up to be an old woman.

Cheers, Jan

Life is not measured by the breaths we take ~

2009-04-06T19:49:00.000-07:00

~ but by the moments that take our breath away.

After going through all the cancer treatments for IBC; eight months of chemotherapy; a double mastectomy; two months of radiation plus all the side effects and all the body changes; you learn a lot about life and realize it is way too ‘freakin’ short!!

Everyday live your life to the fullest; do whatever it is that’s going to make you happy and don’t worry about the other guy; it’s not your problem or business. Try to be as happy as you can and keep stress out of your life as much as possible (take lots of deep breaths). In the beginning…on April 11th, 2008 when I was diagnosed with IBC, I thought, “Oh my God how the hell did I get such a rare cancer”. And how the hell were we going to do this long distance treatment, money, jobs, house, animals, etc. And now that I’ve been done with treatment (for a whole month now) it all seems so long ago. Beside the side effects that I still have, life is getting back to my ‘new’ normal.

I know I have changed because of cancer, but definitely for the better. I really feel like a much happier person. I have calmed down and I’m not as impatient. Life is just too short to be wasting my time with things that just aren’t important. I still like to stay busy and my organizational skills and desire for cleanliness are the same. But I have learned that it’s not important to have everything around me perfect. I’m not perfect and nothing is. So trying to make things around me perfect is just going to drive me to an early grave and drive people around me crazy…especially my husband Ken.

There also have been some good things from the chemo; my skin is much healthier, my COPD seems to have disappeared; no more visits from “Aunt Flow” and I have lost weight that was very much needed. I’m still fighting the leg pain and the fatigue is still there but everyday it gets better. And the biggest thing is that it has made Ken and I grow so much closer. I love him so much more and respect him so much more. He was a great husband during this ordeal. I’m so grateful that it brought us closer together and not further apart.

I started the Tamoxafin about two weeks ago; it’s the five year post-cancer drug. This drug is removing all the estrogen from my body which is putting me through menopause. The chemo also put me in menopause but these pills will assure that I don’t get anymore visits from “Aunt Flow”. The reason for taking Tamoxafin is to help my chances of cancer not coming back. Due to the cancer being in my lymph nodes, this drug is a must. I’ve started my first dose of Zometa (bone building drug). This drug is supposed to give me a 35% better chance of cancer not going to my bones. Breast cancer patients have a higher chance of cancer coming back in the bones, so this drug is the ticket. I guess the major side effects of Zometa are flu like systems. I was feeling tired and woozy this morning but feeling much better this afternoon. I’m sure if I have side effects they will be a piece of cake after having eight months of chemo, anything is a piece of cake. Even going to the dentist now isn’t so bad. I use to hang onto the chair like crazy, give myself a headache or try to think of every reason in the book to cancel my appointment. But now, it’s a piece of cake. And I actually tell myself “you’ve been through cancer treatment, you can do anything”. So calm down and take a deep breath, it’s just the dentist.

For the past two weeks I haven’t been sleeping well at all. I’m getting about 2 – 3 hrs of straight sleep a night and waking up several times a night. I’m taking sleeping pills (which I was off of for about a month) anxiety pill and gavapatan and still not sleeping through the night. I finally broke last night as I just lost it from not getting enough rest. I started back at the gym and did my first yoga class yesterday, so you would think that would help, but no. I have been told by both my doctors to slow down and rest. Usually I need to stay busy or I get way to bored and that makes me an unhappy person – when Julie’s not happy – nobody’s happy. And I really don’t feel like I’m doing too much but everyone around me seems to think that I am. So I’m going to do my best to just slow down and get as much rest as possible. I really am so happy that I’m feeling good…that I’m back at work and enjoy it (I didn’t before cancer)…that we are at home with our animals and that we spending time with our friends and just doing the normal stuff. We needed some toys in this town because there just isn’t enough to do so we treated ourselves to two new PWC’s to play with – yeah! My mom says she gets tired just listening to all I’m doing. I have to keep telling myself that I’m still healing and taking lots of drugs so slow the hell down and breath.

This is a phrase I found in a magazine that I really like:

“It is not enough to fight for the land; it is even more important to enjoy it. While you can. While it’s still here. So get out there and hunt and fish and mess around with your friends, ramble out yonder and explore the forests…climb the mountains, bag the peaks, run the rivers, breathe deep of that yet sweet and lucid air, sit quietly for a while and contemplate the precious stillness, the lovely, mysterious, and awesome space.”

So everyone live your best life and take deep, deep breaths, it could always be worse. Someone has it worse than you do, remember that, it’s a good thing to live by.

Take care, Julie

Please Join Us In This Prayer Chain

2009-04-05T20:34:00.000-07:00

Today we do not have an update ... but we do have a very special request.

Please join our prayer chain and pray for our friend Selena. Selena is having her scans tomorrow to see if the last five months of chemo has worked. She is battling her second round on breast cancer and is only 32 years old. She is a beautiful, strong, courageous young mother and she needs all of our prayers.

So today as we enjoy our lives, the beautiful sunshine and our survivorship, please think of our friend and help us PLEASE PRAY for NO CANCER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Blessings all, and we will keep you posted, Jan

No April Fool's Joke - New Infusion Treatments Started Today!

2009-04-01T19:07:00.001-07:00

Julie started her "new favorite drug" – Zometa today ... actually new, but probably not her favorite, but certainly another new adventure in the life of 'cancer girl'. This drug is a bone-building drug that is given to breast cancer patients to help rebuild their bones that the chemo drugs may have damaged. Again, she is being a real trooper - started the day at the doctor's office with a few hours of having the infusion, then off to work for the rest of the day. Amazing, truly amazing.

She is tired and worn out but mostly from sleepless nights as of late. The doc changed her sleeping meds, so hopefully she will get some good sleep in the next few nights and be able to have some more energy. She is anxious to 'get on with life' as she calls it, and is frustrated that she isn't back to normal yet. As I have told her; even though she looks amazing on the outside, all the poison that she has endured in the form of treatments, not to mention the cancer itself, has probably taken its toll on her insides and it takes time to heal.

Be patient my child .... have some chicken soup and hot tea .... take care of yourself ..... a long normal life awaits you .... and none of us will be able to hold you down .... and because of your passionate and determined personality .... we wouldn't even try.

'til next time, thanks for keeping us in your thoughts and prayers, Jan

Spring Has Sprung - It Was a Sunny Sunday

2009-03-29T18:25:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day here in the Pacific Northwest ~ sunny, a little crisp and cold ~ but a perfect day for just relaxing and trying to shed this nasty sinus infection I have been fighting.

It is snowing off and on in Alaska and Julie is having a day of rest also. This is a big week for Julie as she will start her Zometa infustions. This drug is a bone-building drug that is given to breast cancer patients to help rebuild their bones that the chemo drugs may have damaged. She has a handle on all these side-effects of menopause, most of the time - the hot flashes are still bothersome, so she is going to adjust the medication for those. Her white blood count is down...thank God...as we were all concerned and her energy level is up, again most of the time, and she is ready for her new challenge.

We anticipate that this infusion treatment will be a 'piece of cake' compared to everything else she has been through this past year....can you believe it....it has almost been a year since her diagnosis!

We will keep you all posted on how things go with this next treatment....in the meantime...don't forget that March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month so "GET YOUR BUTT TO THE DOCTOR". Early detection saves lives.

Also don't forget to take time to smell the flowers, Jan

Landmark Cancer Bill Arrives in the Senate!!

2009-03-26T13:29:00.000-07:00

Let's help EVERYONE be a SURVIVOR!! Today, Senators Kennedy and Hutchison introduced a landmark cancer bill in the Senate. The 21st Century Cancer ALERT Act will improve cancer research, early detection, and cancer care for underserved populations.

Today, a crucial cancer bill was introduced in the U.S. Senate. The 21st Century Cancer ALERT (Access to Life-saving Early Detection, Research and Treatment) Act - sponsored by Senators Edward Kennedy and Kay Bailey Hutchison - promises to reignite America's war on cancer by strengthening cancer research, emphasizing early detection, and improving cancer care for underserved populations.

Senators Kennedy and Hutchison have made passing the ALERT Act a priority for 2009. We can help rally support in Washington by urging our legislators to cosponsor the legislation and ensure it moves quickly through the Senate and the House, all the way to President Obama's desk.

Click here to urge your Senators to support the ALERT Act from day one!
http://komenpolicy.org/campaign/cancer_alert_act?rk=tpvhFL4auLqpE

We all know the harsh realities of cancer:

40 percent of Americans will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives. 1.4 million new cases of cancer will be diagnosed this year alone.

Cancer claimed more than 565,000 American lives in 2008 - 1,500 people a day.

But in spite of these staggering figures, funding for research, early detection services, and treatment programs is disappearing. That's why it's so important we seize this opportunity to turn our attention back to fighting this terrible disease.

ALERT stands for Access to Life-saving Early Detection, Research and Treatment:
Early Detection - The ALERT Act will place an emphasis on early detection and promote the discovery and development of biomarkers to detect cancers at the earliest possible stage when cancer is most treatable. The bill also has a particular focus on childhood, rare, and high-mortality cancers.
Research - The ALERT Act will strengthen the cancer research process by promoting public-private partnerships and collaboration between government agencies. The bill also has a focus on translational research so new discoveries and breakthroughs in the laboratory make their way to patients' bedsides as quickly as possible.
Treatment - The ALERT Act will improve access to cancer care for underserved populations by expanding access to clinical trials, patient navigation services, and screening and treatment for colorectal cancer.

Let's take advantage of the momentum that has brought the 21st Century Cancer ALERT Act this far.

Together, we can help make this landmark cancer legislation the law of the land and help reignite the war on cancer!

Many blessings, Jan

Get the Word Out .... Again

2009-03-25T21:05:00.001-07:00

I had to visit the doctors office yesterday, and once again was reminded how uninformed some medical professionals are. Even though I was being seen for cough and cold symptoms, I mentioned to the doctor on call that my daughter Julie has been battling IBC. He didn't know what IBC was....in my opinion, that is uncalled for in this day and age, especially with all the information that has been circulating about it. But, I went home and...in my drug-induced stupor...promptly forgot about his comment.

Then this morning when I checked my e-mail, there was a message from a good friend and she was encouraging all the recipients to watch the YouTube video she attached .... and it was about IBC - Inflammatory Breast Cancer.

It was a sign ... I needed to get the word out once more ... no matter how much we talk about this and pass the information along, there is always a chance that someone does not know about this ... so here is the video again ... and please pass this along ... as the life you save may be someone you love.

As alway, many blessings and pass this along....please, Jan

Paying It Forward - It Starts With You!!

2009-03-22T14:55:00.000-07:00

Cancer Survivor's are amazing...it seems to me that they are the ones that are always "Paying It Forward" or maybe they think of it as paying it back. Nevertheless, they are always joining groups to raise money to find a cure, donating money and time to others that have been diagnosed with cancer, and helping others deal with their diagnosis. They are thankful for the time they have and appreciate life for what it is. And they always seem to find someone who may have it a little bit worse than they do. I remember when I was accompanying Julie to her chemo treatments, she often said "someone always has it worse".

One of these amazing women I know is battling her second battle with breast cancer and is in her early 30's. Selena was diagnosed the first time when she was pregnant with her adorable little boy. She is undergoing chemo right now, is facing a mastectomy in the near future, and is still not sure if the cancer has metastasized to her lungs. But is she sitting around feeling sorry for herself? In a word "NO". She is planning to walk in the Breast Cancer 3-day Walk in Seattle. Please join me in helping her raise money for this cause by clicking on this link.

https://secure3.convio.net/npt/site/Donation2?idb=1135242937&df_id=1590&1590.donation=form1&FR_ID=1300&PROXY_ID=1422703&PROXY_TYPE=20

After you do that, please find it in your heart to start "Paying It Forward". Do something kind everyday!!! There are lots of ways you can do this. It doesn't have to cost money to make someone feel better. When we really look around us, finding inspiration is not hard at all. As a matter of fact, if we practice gratitude and the art of saying thank you regularly, appreciation of the smallest things becomes second nature.

Let someone in front of you at the checkout. If you have a basket full and the person behind you had a few items in their hands, let them in front of you. It won't take much longer and they'll appreciate your good deed.

Tell people who are close to you that you love them. It's important for those near your heart to realize what they mean to you. You never know what the future holds or how long they, or you will be around.

Hold the door for someone coming in behind you. It's a friendly gesture and you're sure to get a smile.

Offer to push an elderly person's shopping cart back to the store or cart corral, this will save them a few steps and they'll appreciate your kindness.

Pick up trash you see on the ground. It doesn't matter if you didn't put it there. Just pick it up and throw it away.

Do a good deed without recognition. Pay for the meal or a coffee for the car behind you in the drive through lane. Something simple like that means a lot.

If you are near someone who drops something, bend over and pick it up for them.

Compliment someone every day.

Leave an overly-generous tip for a waitress. It doesn't have to be extravagant, just enough that she will notice.

Do a chore without being asked. This is very much appreciated (trust me I know).

Donate money or time to a good cause – I recommend any Breast Cancer research organization of course, but any cause you are passionate about works. You don’t have to give a lot, give what you are comfortable with or donate your time. You will be helping someone and you will be rewarded for it in the future.

And please remember what Gandhi said, "You must be the change you wish to see in the world."

Until next time, blessings to you and yours, Jan

Live for Today ~

2009-03-21T20:01:00.000-07:00

Tonight I am sad…as we lost another ‘sister’ to her battle with breast cancer yesterday.

In her honor and in honor of all those who are fighting this battle and who read our blog…..

live for today as no one knows what tomorrow will bring…..

Look well to this one day,
for it and it alone is life.
In the brief course of this one day
lies all the truth and reality
of your existence.
The price of growth and the glory of action
and the splendor of beauty.
Yesterday is only a dream
and tomorrow is but a vision.
Yet each day well lived
makes yesterday a dream of happiness
and each tomorrow is a vision of hope.
Look well therefore to this one day
for it and it alone is life. Anonymous

Many, many blessings to you all, Jan

Stress, Hot Flashes, Night Sweats … These Side-Effects Suck!!!!

2009-03-19T21:34:00.000-07:00

I feel like I could have a stand-in part on Gray’s Anatomy or Private Practice. I have been busy doing research into all hours of the night on cancer and the side-effects of all the drugs that Julie and other cancer patients have to take to kill the monster growing in their bodies. Even though these cancer killing drugs save lives, they also leave behind a trail of nasty side effects.

Julie’s white blood count has been up to 20,000 these past few weeks which alarmed all of us. A normal white blood cell count is 4 to 10,000 – a normal reading indicates the probability that there is no infection or disease. However, a high white blood count can mean many things - inflammatory conditions can elevate one's blood count as can infections or viruses, and it can also mean an evidence of cancer.

But fighting cancer and all the side effects is extremely stressful – so we don’t accept the latter!! Consequently after a ton of researching, we attribute this high white cell blood count to the nasty Neulasta injections she was on when she was having chemo. Neulasta is a white cell booster that is given to patients receiving strong chemotherapy treatments – hence Julie’s elevated counts.

Her blood test results this past week proved our assumptions are probably correct as her white blood count is slowly coming down. And we are all breathing a very huge sigh of relief. She will have blood tests done every week to check this and hopefully validate our assumptions. Remember – we are not doctors – even though we sure feel like it sometimes and know more about this than we ever wanted to know.

The many side affects from cancer fighting chemo drugs and other medications can be debilitating at times. Julie has not been able to escape these either and is currently suffering from early onset of menopause caused by all the drugs she has had to endure. Although she tolerated the chemo pretty well, these side affects can be nasty, stressful and frustrating. I was lucky enough to go through menopause naturally. It wasn’t that long ago so I can relate to what she is going through and give her advice of how to handle all of this. She has started on Gabapentin to help the horrendous night sweats and hot flashes. Hopefully they will kick in soon and help so that she will be able to get good nights sleep for a change.

With a bit of luck she will get a handle on all these side-effects before starting the next new drug – Zometa. She will start her monthly infusion treatments at the end of the month. This drug is a bone-building drug that is given to breast cancer patients to help rebuild their bones that the chemo drugs may have damaged. This treatment, along with an anti-estrogen drug called Tamoxifen, is often prescribed to women after breast cancer treatment.

So in a nutshell, the chemo caused the menopause; the Tamoxifen will prevent the cancer from returning; the Gabapentin will help the menopause symptoms; and the Zometa will help rebuild all the damage so Julie can get on with life. Thus now that you know more about cancer side-effects than you ever wanted to know, I am off to bed and plan to do some other good things tomorrow.

Until later, many blessings to you, Jan

Blessed are those whose attitudes are shaped by their hopes, not their hurts

2009-03-11T19:47:00.000-07:00

Many days I try to put myself in Julie’s shoes and wonder what I would do if I had been diagnosed with IBC. I often say “I wish it were me and not her” and I truly mean that, as no parent wants their child to suffer; but what would I really have done? After seeing what she has endured these past eleven months and how strong she as been; there are days that I think I may have curled up in a fetal position, cried like a baby and just tried to hide from this monster.

God only gives us what we can handle…and apparently He didn’t think I could handle such a devastating diagnosis. But He knew Julie could. And I know He was there and carried her during some of those times when the stress and the pressure of battling cancer took its toll. But she fought back and she is winning the battle...she is so amazing and the true meaning of a survivor!!

She is back to exercising – she is back to work - her life is full and busy – so busy sometimes it exhausts me just hearing about all that she does in a day. When we talk, she says “I don’t know why I am so tired” and I have to remind her of all she accomplished that particular day. After all she still has weekly blood tests and doctor visits; the poison of three chemos are still affecting her body; the fact is she is still recovering and will be for sometime to come. Her energetic spirit and her positive attitude sometimes makes me feel guilty for being so lazy and not doing more with my days.

I guess my kids were raised to be survivors….as a very young single mother and much too young to be wise enough to raise children; I was tossed into motherhood. It was not by choice but by pure stupidity. But you do what you have to do. Like my mother used to tell me “you made your bed – now you lay in it”. I had to be both the mom and dad; the bread winner of the family, the disciplinarian and the nurturer. Not to mention the housekeeper, cook plumber, accountant, organizer and all the other roles that modern mothers play. Most of the time it was not easy and I was exhausted all of the time…in fact there were many times (especially during those teenage years) that I was the one who wanted to run away from home. I didn’t, but I sure remember wanting to.

I loved my babies deeply though and I wanted them to grow up to be honest, generous, self-disciplined, hard-working and just generally good people. Dr. Spock was the child-rearing expert back in the day. I read his books but most of the time life and work got in the way and I didn’t follow the rules; I didn’t do most things right; I didn’t read to them as the TV was much more entertaining and a great babysitter; I didn’t always cook nutritious meals as they loved McDonald’s; they didn’t always have clean clothes to wear to school as sometimes there was just no money for soap; and sometimes they went to bed without hugs and kisses because I was either working or had fallen asleep long before their bedtime. But they grew up in spite of my mistakes and misgivings. The grew up to be responsible adults and have gone out into the world and made their own way as good, intelligent, hard-working, very loving and lovely people.

Julie is living proof of that….a true survivor who will make a difference in this world. As my fantastic husband says “you can’t hold her down so don’t try”. She is strong and stubborn and one amazing woman. So this post is a “thank you” to God for being my 'footprints in the sand' and helping me raise one incredible woman. And for being there again when we needed Him to carry my Julie when she needed it.

So here’s to good women...may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them.

Blessings, Jan

Today Was a Day to Reflect . . . . .Life is Good

2009-03-08T18:15:00.000-07:00

Today was a lazy day, just spent relaxing, resting and reflecting all that we have all been through this past year. Julie is still experiencing some symptoms from her final chemo, but her spirits are up and she is spending the weekend catching up on chores and hanging out with her friends.

Life is good......I found this beautiful video and music and hope you will all enjoy....

Blessings, Jan

F*&% Ya, Treatment is Done!!! I Frickin' Did It!!!

2009-03-05T20:04:00.000-08:00

Yep, I finished my last chemo on Friday, February 27th. Treatment is done, over, out of here, forever!!

I just finished three different chemo drugs for the last 6 weeks. It went much better than I was told by the doctors. I was able to work very close to full-time. Most of the time I just felt tired and achy. I was so tired from work though that at night I would just sit my butt on the couch. I had to do a white blood cell shot (Neulasta) about every other day to help me from getting sick. That shot caused me extreme bone pain, so Oxycodone has been eaten like candy to keep me from biting someone’s head off. Poor Ken, he’s had to put up with my wonderful moods. He’s been a great trooper and I couldn’t have done this without him.

Eight months of six different chemo drugs, two months of radiation, two surgeries and nine months away from home...I DID IT! At the beginning I didn’t know how we were going to do it. I just knew I had to do whatever I needed to get CANCER out of my body. There were lots of ups and downs, some real bad times and some real good times. I learned a lot about myself and a lot about others. I think I’m a better person.

Now that it's over it seems to have gone by so fast. I have to take Tamoxifen for five years. This takes the estrogen out of me, so menopause here I come, sorry Ken. I have to have a 45 minute infusion of Zometa every month (they don’t know for how long yet) to keep my bones from losing mass. It’s to strengthen my bones because the chemo has done lots of damage, and then the Tamoxifen will continue to wear them down. Breast cancer patients have a higher chance of cancer coming back in the bones, so this is a preventive treatment and it gives a 36% improved chance of not getting bone cancer. So if that’s all I have to do to give myself a better chance of not getting cancer again, then I can handle it. It will be nice when the side effects go away. The docs say it could take months to years. But I’m sure that within a couple of months I should be feeling pretty damn good. I’m looking forward to not being sick and feeling my new normal.

My mom started a blog site about Inflammatory Breast Cancer. She has put all of our updates and lots of information about IBC on it. Please check it out and pass it along, http://www.kickincancersass.blogspot.com/ . The blog has already put me in contact with a lady in Canada that has IBC and just started treatment. I’m very much interested in being an advocate for IBC and getting the word out about this aggressive breast cancer. In the future the blog will be where we put our updates and information and stories about IBC, so keep in touch.

We are sending a huge thank you to all of you following our story. Thank you to all of you that supported us and prayed for us. Thank you to all my friends, coworkers and family for standing by us. And a special thank you to my doctors for doing the right thing and getting this cancer out of me. And my dear husband, I love you for sticking with me through this fight.

Julie and Ken

You never know how STRONG you are...until being strong is the ONLY choice you have.

2009-03-04T19:39:00.000-08:00

An old friend called me today after she had read the blog ~ it was so great to hear from her and we chatted for a long time catching up on each other's lives. We have known each other since our children were small.

She kept asking me "how are YOU dealing with Julie's cancer diagnosis?" I admitted that I have shed many tears ~ there is not a mother in the world that wouldn't offer to take this instead of having a child in the prime of her life have to deal with the "Big C". But I have to be strong for her ~ she is so amazing and so passionate that she will beat this cancer ~ and I know she will. She deals with all of the pain, the side effects and the unknown so extremely well. I admire her so much for that. So I have to be strong too. I am a believer in positive thinking and I know this is what has helped all of us get through this.

I read blogs and articles everyday about too many young people that are facing a cancer diagnosis. And I am in awe of them. They are so incredibly strong. Yes, the have bad days and they cry, kick and scream ~ but they pick themselves up and go on with the business of living with cancer. They know that great strides have been made in cancer treatments and they believe that they will survive.

Just this week alone I have heard of 3 young women all in their 30's who have been newly diagnosed with breast cancer, two with IBC. They live in different parts of the world, are of different races and religions, yet we are all sisters at heart. We are in this together and we are not only survivors - we are thrivers.

So hence my newest mantra - one that I am borrowing from a young women I know who is currently battling her second round of breast cancer ~ she is beautiful on the inside and out ~ she is dealing with her cancer with dignity and grace ~ and she says "you never know how STRONG you are...until being strong is the ONLY choice you have".

Sending good thoughts and many blessings to all thrivers and survivors tonight.

Jan

Final Chemo - A Time to Celebrate!!!!

2009-02-28T02:30:00.000-08:00

Just like the little kid in the Disneyland commercial says “I am too excited to sleep”. So here I sit at one o’clock in the morning creating my newest blog entry. Although none of us are at Disneyland, we are at the happiest place on earth right now – warm and snug in our own homes seeing a very bright light at the end of what has been a very, very dark tunnel.

Julie had her final chemo today ending a very long 11 months of fighting this demon called IBC . It was a surreal feeling for her and, like all cancer patients do, she is wondering is it really over? Her white blood count was extremely high but we are all thinking, the doctors included, that this is caused from the Neupogen...the white blood cell promoting injection. This is also the drug that makes her nauseated and causes her bones to ache. Hopefully, the final injection will be on Monday and she can say goodbye to that poison also.

We all know there will be more medications she will need to be on, probably for the rest of her life, and the doctors are currently making the decisions of what those will be. We know there will be an anti-cancer drug that will fend off the hormone-receptive cancers and also a drug to prevent bone loss, but those prescriptions will be written in a few weeks after her body has a chance to heal from this last chemo.

We did not let this day go by without celebrating…we are a gift giving family and this day was better than Christmas for all of us. Ken brought her a big purple balloon bouquet, Jessica had purple flowers delivered to her at work this morning, her coworkers also marked the occasion with a beautiful bouquet of flowers and I sent her a special 'hand-made with love' beaded purple necklace and earring set (my newest favorite hobby).

Cancer is much more complicated than just surviving – it is not a sprint through treatment and beyond – it is a marathon and it is also starting and celebrating a new life. There is the constant fear of reoccurrence that never goes away – every new ache and pain screams out and makes you wonder if the cancer has returned. As a breast cancer survivor myself, I fully understand this and hopefully I can help Julie understand that these fears are part of the ‘new normal’ start in her new cancer free life.

She now has a different body, a different perspective and a whole new appreciation of how she wants to spend her time. Her new life is going to have a lot in common with her old one, but it will never be the same. Her new normal will different, it will also be a lot of fun. She will appreciate taking some time out each day to laugh a lot and enjoy the little things in life. She will now celebrate each day, dream big and live life to the fullest.

It is ironic that Julie’s favorite color has always been purple. Now it has special meaning in her new life as purple is the official Relay for Life Cancer Survivor color….and now she can wear it proudly as she Celebrates, Remembers and Fights Back and continues to be an advocate for others whose lives have been turned upside down because of a diagnosis of Inflammatory Breast Cancer.

Until the next episode… don’t forget to celebrate and live your life to the fullest too…today…and everyday!

Jan

Chemo REALLY Sucks ~

2009-02-25T18:23:00.000-08:00

Julie's three-chemo cocktail has caught up with her these past few weeks. She is near the end of these poisonous injections and in her words "can hardly wait 'til this is over". Although this amazing gal made it work today - she lost her breakfast when she pucked her guts out.

I think any one who has ever had to endure 3 different chemo drugs at one time; Zeloda ... chemo pill; Methotrexate ... chemo injection; Navelbine ... chemo injection; plus daily Neupogen ... white blood cell promoting injections ... would be sick too.

On top of this .... this journey has thrown her into early menopause...something no woman should have to endure!! So on top of being nauseated, dizzy and exhausted from the drugs to save her life she gets the "fun" stuff too ... hot flashes, night sweats, sleeping problems and mood swings (huh Ken). Again, in her words "I am so lucky my wonderful husband puts up with me".

She is certainly stronger than I am ... but her strong will has kept her going. She will have the last of her chemo treatments on Friday and we will have reason to celebrate.

Until then .... stay tuned in ... for the rest of the story.

Words to Live by

2009-02-22T20:47:00.000-08:00

"The best way to prepare for life is to begin to live".
Elbert Hubbard

Signs & Symptoms of Inflammatory Breast Cancer

2009-02-22T20:18:00.000-08:00

IBC is very often misdiagnosed because there usually is no lump and because so few primary care doctors have ever seen a case. Compared to other breast cancers, little is known about it. Estimates range from one to six percent of all breast cancer cases are IBC. Each day brings new hope for better diagnosis and treatment for IBC patients.
Signs to look for that you may have inflammatory breast cancer:

• Itching or pain in the breast that does not stop
• Nipple discharge
• The nipple indenting or flattening
• Swollen lymph nodes under your arms or on your neck
• A sudden warm feeling or swelling in the breast
• You may see a lump but that is not always the case
• Sometimes you will see bruising that will not dissipate
• Ridges in the breast skin
• Thickness of skin in certain areas of the breast
• Any redness or change in color of the areola
• One breast swells larger than the other
• Orange peel of the skin, looks like dimples on your breasts

If you show any of these signs consult with your doctor immediately. The best thing to do is to hit this cancer head on and to be as informed as possible. This is the most aggressive type of breast cancer and should be dealt with aggressively. The better informed and sooner you make your decision on how to treat your cancer, the better chance you have. Don’t ignore the signs; ask your doctor even if you think it may be nothing.

Our New Blog

2009-02-22T19:54:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our blog......we are a mother / daughter team of cancer ass kickers!!

Jan (the mom) was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2006 ~ it was a small tumor, found early and surgery and treatment were a "piece of cake" as cancer treatment goes.

Julie (the daughter) was diagnosed with Inflammatory Breast Cancer in 2008. Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare and very aggressive type of breast cancer that causes the lymph vessels in the skin of the breast to become blocked. This type of breast cancer is called "inflammatory" because the breast often looks swollen and red, or "inflamed". IBC accounts for 1% to 5% of all breast cancer cases in the United States.

Treatment has been not been easy, but she is nearing the end of her treatments as this blog starts. In hindsight we wish we would have started this at the beginning..........

But this is the beginning.............as this is our story of survival and kickin' cancer's ass.

We're Finally Going Home - Merry Christmas

2008-12-12T16:14:00.000-08:00

December 12 - We're Finally Going Home - Merry Christmas!!!

Yep, that's right we get to come home. The doctor has finally agreed to let me have my last two months of chemo in Juneau. I have been working on him for the last couple of months, and since we are no longer fighting a tumor or the actual cancer, he relented. We are doing preventive treatment, to make sure the shit doesn't come back. I feel comfortable coming home and having the last of my treatments in Juneau.

The doctor has set me up with a doctor in Juneau to administer my three different chemos and maintain all my side effects (got to love those side effects!). I will be going back on the three different chemos that I started mid October, and then they took me off of two of them when I started radiation on October 23rd. I'm hoping to get back to work also, but probably will just be able to handle part-time, but am really hoping to do full-time. By the time this is all over I will have had 6 different chemos, WOW!

I have been here for 2 1/2 months by the time we go home, and its been 9 months since the cancer diagnosis. I really didn't see the light at the end of the tunnel when I was told I had cancer. Time has gone by so fast though, it really doesn't seem like its been 9 months. Today I finished my 8 weeks of radiation. Doc had added more treatments because she said she needed to give me as much as I could handle. They radiated 3/4 of my chest, over the top of my shoulder and around my left side. I am cherry red, have several blisters and raw skin. The last two weeks have been very painful and uncomfortable. The radiation doctor told me several times how amazing I have done and that I should be proud of myself. She even said they talk about me in the weekly meetings about my great attitude and how well I've handled all of the treatments, she made me cry.

I've been still doing the one chemo every Monday. My major side effect has been my extreme leg pain, nausea and just not feeling good. But I know it could be a lot worse so I just push on the best I can. I walk home from the hospital everyday but usually have to take a nap everyday also.

Ken arrived back in Seattle on November 11th. We were apart for a month, way to long for both of us. It was hard on me going through the treatments by myself, and hard on Ken trying to do his best at the house and not worry about me. We will never do that again.

This cancer shit is hard enough but to be apart from your husband just makes everything much worse. I did try a couple of the support groups but decided they just weren't for me. I didn't feel comfortable with the people and didn't like all the whining. I really get tired of talking about me and the cancer all the time.

This whole cancer treatment, I have tried to treat it like a job. I have to do it so just get up everyday and do what I have to do to save my life.

This cancer shit has brought Ken and I closer and we are definitely becoming a stronger couple. We just had our 2 year wedding anniversary on November 21st. It really has been a great 2 year adventure, 4 actually as a couple. We have been able to travel to India, Rome and Mexico. We moved to Alaska, bought a great house and have great jobs. And let's not forget about our four great animals. He has been a great support for me but he is a man so he has those days. (Gotta love those men)

So we are coming home on the 26th of December. We received miles from our friends Cindy and Lisa so we didn't have to buy the expensive holiday tickets. We leave Seattle on the 23rd going to my mom's for Christmas in Longview. My daughter Jessica and her boyfriend, my brother will also be there. It will be a big family Christmas, totally unexpected. For those of you that enjoy our Christmas letter, there will not be one this year. I don't think I have to explain why.

A special thank you to George for taking our dog's out on hikes. I'm sure they love you very much for taking them out into the woods, they are definitely hiking dogs.

Thank you Tia for picking up dog poop, (big dog poop, quote Tia) oh, and giving them baths, I know it wasn't easy. Thank you to our wonderful house sitters, Autumn and Pule for taking such good care of our house. We thank all of you for your wonderful support.

We hope that you all have a wonderful Christmas and New Year.

Julie

Back from Alaska for Another Surgery!!!!

2008-09-23T16:10:00.000-07:00

Sept 23 - Back from Alaska - Another Surgery :-(

Dear Family and Friends,

Long has it been (over a month), and between being busy trying to have a normal life and having massive writing block, well, here we are. I hope my gentle reader will please allow me to change my format a bit from my standard, as I am tired, and still blocked up (literarily, that is!!).

Julie and I are in Seattle. We flew down last Wednesday, as the trio of docs (oncologist, surgeon and radiologist) wanted to get on with progress earlier, and they bumped up the schedule about two weeks.

The surgeon took one look at Julie's incisions, saw the failure to close (ie two really ugly holes, one with a wonderful view of her chest wall), and scheduled her for surgery Tuesday afternoon. He explained it as needed to "be tidied up some." In an instant, what should have been the start of radiation this week and my return to Juneau last weekend became an indeterminate wait for surgery, and now, recovery so that chemo can start early next week. Since the chest won't heal with radiation, no man-made nuclear particles touch my BooBoo for at least a month post-surgery.

Surgery was just over an hour this afternoon, and Julie (and Dr. Beatty) did great. There was no problems in closing the holes, and Julie had the best recovery from anesthesia I have seen her have to date. We were outta the hospital about three hours later, and eating a nice shrimp scampi on the way home.

Home isn't actually ours, but Jo and Dan are making us feel perfectly comfortable in their beautiful home in Everett, just north of Seattle. They are truly lifesavers, even trusting us with their totally cherry red convertible turbo PT Cruiser. Thank you guys so much... what can I say?!

Today's visualization of the future looks something like this:

Now, a week to recover from surgery.

Monday the 29th, follow-up with docs, get the OK to start chemo.

Week of the 29th, start an aggressive chemo, something like three sessions in two-weeks then two weeks off. Repeat. Repeat.

No sooner than a month from now, evaluate whether we stop chemo to do 5-1/2 weeks of radiation, and then resume the chemo; or, do both at the same time.

We are thinking we will return back to Juneau during that first two-week break in chemo, about mid-October. Thinking, that is... we really have no idea and I have stopped trying to predict how this whole affair is going to unfold. I had to buy dress pants, shirts and ties so that I can go downtown to work, since I thought I was only going to be here for 4 days, and so I had packed uncharacteristically light. I usually carry the kitchen sink around, but for once, I listened to BooBoo. Figures...

I am outta here for now. I haven't narrated the last month (on account of the writers' block and all), so maybe I will get around to that, or not. My gentle reader should not hold their breath. What I must include though, is a hearty thanks to all of you who have shown us kindness and support. Julie and I tend to remember the events of this ordeal by the wonderful things done for us. You know who you are, and we can't thank you enough.Bless us all,

Ken and Julie

Post OP - Recovering from Surgery

2008-08-20T16:04:00.000-07:00

August 20 - Post OP - Recovering from Surgery

Family and friends,

My gentle reader will please forgive me for taking a long week before another update. It has been a long week... emptying the three surgical drains, adjusting pillows to get Julie comfortable, changing dressings, keeping her moving and trying to let her rest.

They threw us out of the hospital on Thursday, less than 24-hours there. I guess they figure:

a) Ya heal better out of the hospital, in a comfortable "at-home" setting;
b) They don't have enough staff to take really good care of you anyway, so might as well leave;
c) Cheaper for the insurance company; and/or
d) They can't give ya a really good staph infection if you're not in the hospital.

Any who, we left, and really, we probably ended up getting a lot more sleep at night. Hospitals are not what they used to be...

Julie is a tough bird; she was out shopping on Friday. She needs to walk around and keep moving, both walking and moving her arms to keep flexibility and range of motion. This is going well, although there is still considerable pain and she has to shift around to get comfortable lying down. Thank goodness (and the pharmaceutical industry) for oxycodone, Julie's newest second best friend. She is amazingly tolerant of the pain and discomfort and grotesque-ness of this surgery, as I am pretty sure had it been me, I would have been reduced to a hulking bawl-baby.

OK, so the pathology results we got today: please understand, I only play an MD on television, so I am not an expert on this...basically she was affected by two types of cancer, the highly aggressive cancer that is consistent with the inflammatory breast cancer that thrives and grows in the lymphatic system, and the slower, more persistent in situ cancer that sets up light housekeeping in the ducts of the breast, and while dangerous, is slower and offers more time for alternatives. The pathology showed that the chemo appeared to break-up the aggressive stuff into much smaller pieces than they were at the initial diagnosis. The ductal in situ was scattered thru the center in small nodules. But the good: the margins were all clear.

The lymph nodes showed tumor in 7 of the 23 that were removed, but there was no evidence that the cancer was beyond any of the dissection.

Julie's surgeon presented her case at the weekly Tumor Board Wednesday morning, a meeting for all the cancer staff to discuss and share info on patient cases. The consensus was that Julie should delay the radiation for the time being and have a second course of chemo, just to be safe and certain. It seems that the resolution of the MRI wouldn't find any tumor at the size that it would be (if there is any) right now, and that by the time any tumor grows to the size where it would be seen in 6 months from now, it would be much more resistant to the chemo. They think that this type of tumor ultimately re-surfaces about 50% of the time, but that a second chemo will further reduce the probability by another 50 to 75 %. This second chemo thus lowers the chances to around 1 in 8. So, that's the plan.

Anyone familiar with Dr. James Reason's accident causation "Swiss cheese" model knows that any additional layers of protection can only help. That is what we are hoping for.

Of course, Julie is beside herself because she really, REALLY wanted this to be over... to the extent that she had repeatedly threatened the doctor's ass with a sound kickin' if she needed more chemo after the surgery. What this does now, is throw the treatment timeline into some confusion.

We will not come back to Seattle in mid-September for radiation (so sorry, Bonnie, we were really looking forward to watching your house). Instead, we travel back to Seattle the last week of September to meet with the trio (the surgeon, the oncologist, and the radiation-ator) to start the chemo again. This gives Julie plenty of time to recover from the first chemo and the mastectomy. Our hope, and we should be able to start getting the answer to this question next week, is that once the chemo is started in Seattle that we can run the course in Juneau, and then let the radiation-ator start her nuclear magic within about three months.

To sum up:

Hospital stay way short.

No evidence that cancer went beyond the surgical site.

Need to do second chemo just to be on the safe side.

Timeline screwed up, and this probably won't be over before Christmas.

Julie pissed. And miserable.

That is about it: we fly home tomorrow, Thursday, and get to see the doggies and the house. I will keep emptying the drains and changing the dressings, and Julie will get better daily. I am not sure how soon she will be able to get back to work.

We both want to thank all the folks that came to see us these last two weeks. Your unwavering support and love continue to make all the difference. Julie is such a tough character, such a committed fighter, largely because we all stand so resolutely behind her. Bless you all.

Ken

Surgery Day - This SO Tough

2008-08-13T15:59:00.000-07:00

August 13 Surgery Day - This is SO Tough

Dear family and friends,

It is almost 7pm, and the news is wonderful. Julie is doing great, we should see her in recovery very soon, the surgeon is happy. The operation appears to have taken the entire tumor, although the full pathology is still pending. The initial exam of the removed lymph auxiliary tissue shows no sign of cancer in it... in fact, the pathologist had to call the OR back to ask where the tumor was, because he couldn't find any in the series he examined. We are exhausted. It has been a hell of a day.

My gentle reader will perhaps appreciate this narrative knowing the outcome up front as a literary device. I am going to stop writing now, and send this out. Thank you so much to everyone for your support, prayers, and positive energy. You have no idea how much difference that you made to us, and me in particular. I am about to cry, so I am going to sign off, and wish you all a very heart-felt blessing.

As I start this at about 1:30pm (PST) Wednesday, I am with Jan and Mike and Jessica, waiting in the surgical lobby area at Swedish Hospital. It has been an MF'ing long day so far, as they scheduled Julie's check-in here at 0630, then a lot of sit and wait. She actually, finally, tearfully, went into surgery at about 1130... I am not sure the cause for the delay, but the doctor explained that he didn't get out of yesterday's operations until very late, and I suspect he didn't want to start that early. If that is the case, I guess it's OK for him to be better rested.

We have waited about two hours now, and a couple of my Seattle co-workers sat with us for a while (Dan and Diane, thank you for taking out time to visit). We expect an update any minute now, as the operation proceeds for a while, then the pathologist does a check under the microscope as tissue comes out, and then it resumes as the surgeon has a better "roadmap" of where to go. We are still hoping that the doctor doesn't have to dissect into the auxiliary...

So many people waiting here, so many different stories. I don't really like it. It's not like sitting in an airport watching folks, everyone coming from somewhere and headed off somewhere else... a real sense of purpose. Instead, this is subdued, hushed, tense. No one else seems to like it, either.

The last few days have been really hard on Julie. She has second-guessed herself, questioning the treatment regimen and the need for this mastectomy. She knows that it is vital to saving her life, but that knowledge has provided little comfort. She has been alternating angry, sad, worried, accepting. This emotional roller coaster has been tough on both of us. Last night, she finally gave herself permission to let it go for a bit, and proceeded to get 3/4 drunk at the restaurant at dinner. Lemon drops... a wonderful citrus creation, highly recommended for flavor and effect. She got silly, laughed a bit too loudly, released a lot of tension, and we all got some entertainment with dinner.

Two o'clock and still we wait to hear.

Five-Twenty, and waiting.

We did hear from the OR nurse at about 3:30, to say that they had to dig into the axillary and remove some lymph vessels, which we were hoping would not be the case, but that they were closing the incision on the left, and getting to start the right (non cancerous) breast. I was told that the doc would be done by 5:30, and come to see us and give us the skinny.

So, we wait.

OK, we are getting closer... five-thirty and the OR called again. They are finishing up the last bit of the procedure, and she is headed off to the recovery room in about 15 minutes. She is doing well, and everything went the way it was supposed to. The doc will be cleaned up and come talk to us at 6. Thank God, this part is over and done. Yeah, recovery will suck, what with all the drain tubes and pain and re-emerging from the anesthesia fog, but it looks like the cutting part is done. And with it, God willing, all the cancer. I am greatly relieved, and the waiting is now easier.

I haven't decided if I will keep this open a bit longer, or to send it now and then compose another update later tonight or tomorrow with the details from the surgeon. Anyway, I am done for the moment, and hitting "save."

Ken

Surgery Approaching - Double Mastectomy

2008-08-11T15:53:00.000-07:00

August 11th Surgery Approaching - Double Mastectomy

Dear Family and Friends,

I have to admit that I have not wanted to write this update, and as a result, it has been awhile. My gentle reader will please understand as I try to get this out this morning (amidst all the other last-minute crap) before Julie and I fly to Seattle this afternoon.

Julie's surgery, the double mastectomy we have dreaded since the days in mid-April after her diagnosis, is this Wednesday. We are travelling today, then tomorrow is the "patient education" where our surgeon and his staff will discuss the nitty-gritty details, sign the consent forms, and start marking Julie's chest with the surgical sharpie.

Wednesday's festivities start early with another diagnostic, this one involving measuring the uptake of another radioactive dye, so that they can get a last read on the extent of the lymphatic involvement, and then the surgery itself. About six hours... I am thinking that I will go mad. I absolutely hate this... and I am not the patient. No more joking around with looking at boobs and all the other denial crap I have been hiding behind. Julie is having a hard time dealing with the significant chance that mortality is involved. And then there are the issues of losing her breasts... I pray that no one else ever has to go through this for themselves.

The decision about whether or not to take both breasts has been weighing on us for months. Ultimately, it comes down to Julie (and me, but they are not mine so I don't get a full vote) deciding that she never, ever wants to go thru this breast cancer again. I have stopped thinking about the analogy to my testicles (you know, whether I would want them to take both if I had cancer in one), and I support her decision completely.

Julie will spend a few days in the hospital for recovery, probably getting out on Saturday. Other than that, we will be existing at the Hotel Nexus (near the NorthGate Mall, north of the UW) until the 20th, when she has a post-op follow-up with the docs. We plan to fly back to Juneau on the 21st, thanks to the generous donation of airline miles from one of my firefighter brothers, Mike, and his wife, Sara. There are still great examples of goodness amongst the bad...

Depending on how far into the lymphatic system the doctor needs to go, Julie will be extremely limited in her physical activity for about a month, so that we can do everything we need to do to prevent a permanent lymphadema on her left side... a condition essentially where the lymph draining from the arm goes to where nodes have been removed, and like a clogged storm drain, the fluid has no place to go but into the surrounding tissue. I am going to have to step up and do everything around the house: Julie has been told literally... no lifting more than one pound. If anyone asks if we need anything in Juneau after we get back, I am thinking that lunches and dinners are going to be the ticket.

We still don't have the date for starting radiation (we hope to set that up before we return to Juneau), but we have decided to run the entire 6-week course of treatment in Seattle at Swedish. Again we were torn about having Julie do the radiation in Longview so she/we could stay at her Mom's, but we didn't really get a warm and fuzzy from the radiation doc there... and the staff at Swedish has been so great to us, that we decided not to screw around. We are still working out the logistical details, but between a housesitter ad we put in craigslist to which we just got a reply, and some dear friends who live in Seattle (Lurilla, Cate, Dan and Jo, you know who you are), we think we can make Julie comfortable while keeping the expenses down. The radiation is about 30-minutes each day, Monday thru Friday, for about 6 weeks. Yikes...

We have done our best to enjoy this last few weeks in Juneau, at home, with friends, coworkers, and the dogs. We thank everyone for their continued best wishes and prayers... we could never have done this without all your support.

Ken & Julie

Seven Down and Surgery Scheduled

2008-07-13T08:38:00.000-07:00

July 13, 2008 ~ Seven Down and Surgery Scheduled

Dear family and friends,

"We make plans, and God laughs"

How much truth there is to this simple, 6-word country-folk nugget of wisdom? This cancer "detour" along the road of our journey was unexpected, there were no warning signs posted miles before, the details not available on the internet to check before we set off. It accomplishes little to lament the stuff we were going to do this summer. Instead, Julie and I choose to focus on what is important right now.

What is important now is that Julie just had her seventh chemo (of eight) this last Thursday in Seattle. Back in April, just after Julie's diagnosis, her oncologist laid out the road-map for the first "leg" of treatment... 16 weeks of chemo. We were both hit hard by this, and quietly wondered how we would make it through to the end of four months of medically-supervised chemical poisoning. Nonetheless, here we are today, still (mostly) strong and determined. And of course, the answer to the "how" is now obvious and humbling to the two of us... it is the support, love and energy of a whole lot of great folks. There is no adequate way we can ever thank all of you sufficiently. All we can do is stay focused and work hard to do what must be done. I find myself coming back to the advice I gave a few weeks ago to a shipmate whose 3-yr old daughter is critically ill: accept what you have no control over, stay calm and dig down to add as much value where you can. I am learning that we are stronger than we thought.The cycle of feeling "low" and "less-low" over the two weeks after chemo seems much more pronounced since Julie's switch to Taxol. The pain comes sooner after the Thursday, and is deeper than before. She is taking, and we are enforcing, a carefully timed regimen of anti-emetics and painkillers (oxycodone), to keep her tummy settled and the leg and body pain in check. She is taking about twice the pain meds now compared to her fifth chemo, and it barely keeps her above water. I am so glad that we are close to the end, and look forward to getting her off all this crap.

We have a date for Julie's mastectomy surgery: Wednesday the 13th of August. Back to this in a bit...

My gentle reader will again have to forgive the long delay between these missives. It's not that I'm lazy, it's just that I am doing other stuff. Since last I wrote, we once again left house and dogs in Juneau for Seattle. Chemo no. 6 (back on the 26th of June) was long and uneventful. The high point for me was being given the "special" tour of the little galley, and being trusted with the location of the secret stash of Lorna Doone cookies. I guess that I am now a regular at the clinic, with all the privilege that goes with the title. We continue to be treated with gracious hospitality by Jan and Mikey in Longview. Thank goodness for mothers!!

We enjoyed the Fourth of July in Vancouver at Carol's annual 4th party and BBQ. Too much food, but that's part of the deal. Carol and family have been best friends of Julie's since she moved to the 'Couv, and to miss the celebration there would be wrong. My favorite part, mostly because it demonstrated so clearly how well Julie fits in to Alaska living, was buying fresh whole salmon from the next-door neighbor (whose son is a "tribal" dip netter on the Columbia), and then Jules holding school in Carol's kitchen demonstrating the efficient fillet and processing of wild fish. Julie, the fish stud...

We spent most of that next week staying with daughter Jessica, in her small but comfy apartment, also in Vancouver. We saw some more Portland/Vancouver friends, had a very nice visit with Russ and Michelle out in their forest-garden, and I was glad to be able to continue working in Portland without the long drive from Longview. The timing for the whole week worked out great, as it coincided with Julie's "not-so-bad" part of the chemo cycle. She needed to get out and see people and get some air and light exercise. It worked.

Jan took Julie back to Seattle for this last chemo, whilst I stayed with Jessica. We celebrated my birthday on the 11th with the The Police concert... one of my favorite trio's. Sting shows no evidence of slowing down. What a great show. Oh, and I had a great meeting in Salem earlier that day with my Seattle CG counterpart Dan, my Portland successor Curt, and my dear friend Dr. Jennifer Lincoln of NIOSH, in which we made a very strong case for the State of Oregon to adopt stricter safety requirements for commercial Dungeness crab fishermen, as they have replaced the Bering Sea crabbers as the country's deadliest commercial fishing fleet. Sweet it was to me as this was an effort that I left incomplete when I left Portland and dragged BooBoo North with me.

Enough about me... back to Julie. The last chemo hit hard, and she is taking lots of pain drugs and is uncomfy and, I must report, a bit grouchy. But she continues to keep a positive attitude, and she is doing all the things she needs to do to maximize her fight. Her mom and I amaze over how tough an old bird Julie is. This is very good, and keeps me motivated. The doctor and the Wonder Nurse both say that she is doing amazingly well, and that if it weren't for her shiny bald head, you might not otherwise know that she had cancer.

Our schedule looks something like this: Last chemo on Thursday the 24th. Yeah!!

Last Nuelasta shot on the 25th, and an MRI so that the surgeon, can "see" what the status is.

Fly to Juneau on Saturday the 26th, see the doggies!!

Fly back to Seattle on Monday, August 11th... boo-hoo.

Meet with the surgeon on the 12th, sign the consent, and get the scoop on what he wants to do.

Surgery starts Wednesday the 13th at 0630 check-in, sentinel node test, then the surgery itself, probably about 6 hours. It takes this long because they run pathology samples as they go along, to make sure that there is no cancer at the margins. Julie has pretty much decided to get a double mastectomy, so that she won't be lopsided. The docs recommend this, and the other cancer survivors she has talked to all think this is a good idea. In addition, it will leave an identical "canvas" on both sides for reconstruction (see below).

Julie will be in the hospital for recovery until Friday or Saturday, then we move into the Hotel Nexus (up I-5 just north of UW) for a week or so, seeing the surgeon for a follow-up on the 20th. By this time, we should every indication that all the cancer is gone. Then we get to fly home, maybe on the 21st, and I get to do all the work while Julie recuperates for another 2 or 3 weeks.

We are going to meet the radiation oncologist here in Longview before the last chemo, and see whether or not this will work in lieu of the entire run of radiation at Swedish. Radiation will be 5 days a week for 6 weeks, and Julie would really like to do this in Longview. We'll see...

We will also get a chance to meet with the plastic surgeon at Swedish who will do the reconstruction (read as BOOB JOB) next summer, and try to get a better idea of the longer term picture. Speaking of which, Julie and I are actively looking at boobs, with the notion of trying to get some good ideas for what to ask for when it is time. We did see a few good pairs at the The Police concert, and I am really trying to do my homework. This research is important, and the involvement gives me a real sense of ownership.

OK, I am wiping the silly/stupid grin off my face. I fear I have dragged my gentle readers far enough in one sitting, so I am going to stop for now. We love y'all, and know that we are so grateful for the gifts that come our way.

God bless,

Julie and Ken

Cancer Sucks ~ But Thank God for Friends & Family

2008-06-22T08:33:00.000-07:00

June 22, 2008 CANCER SUCKS!!!

Family and friends,

I can't believe that it has been three weeks since my last broadcast e-mail update on Julie. My gentle reader will forgive me; this has been a very busy time for the both of us. I long for those days of normalcy, where hard work and commerce led to time to be lazy and enjoy doing nada for a while... Now, seems that work leads to more work. That is the curse of the diligent: the reward for a job well done is more work...

I have several things to write of, so I will begin with Julie. Tonight, she feels better, but is a bit grumpy (as am I) that we must leave home and dogs this Wednesday and return to Washington for chemo number 6 of 8 on Thursday afternoon. She had her fifth chemo treatment on the 12th, which was also the first Taxol. We both coulda sworn that our wonderful oncology nurse, told us beforehand that it would be a quick one. It wasn't... the Taxol itself takes three hours, with the other pre-meds (the anti-emetics and the super-duty Benadryl) for an hour before the main course. To make it worse, the first application of Taxol is "titrated" into the patient, which means they swirl a little bit into the IV then stop and wait to see what happens. I guess enough people statistically have an allergic reaction that they don't assume anything. Which is the reason for the Benadryl appetizer... so that it's already onboard if the victim, I mean patient, has an adverse side effect. I reckon all told Julie was stuck thru her port for almost the entire day, or so it seemed.

The Doc warned us that the Taxol, while having less nausea and gastrointestinal distress than the now-finished AC, would make Julie feel like a truck ran over her. They were right... except they left out the part about the truck running her over repeatedly. If you remember the "Travelocity" commercial a while back, where the traveling gnome gets run over by the luggage cart, and then calls for 'back-up,' whereupon the cart runs back over it... well, you get the idea. We flew back to Juneau the next day, and by Saturday night she was feeling it fully. Julie told me she felt like "a 95 year old woman," which I certainly hope doesn't offend any of my readers who might be getting along in years. She had no energy, pain in her legs and back, and was just pretty much sick and tired. She lived on the couch the rest of the week until Friday, when as her co-workers know, she went to work for the first half of the day.

I fear that this will be the template for the remaining six weeks of this crap... a roller coaster where she finally gets feeling better just in time to start it all again. I hope that we can keep her from getting more and more tired each time...

But, there is good to report... she is well through the entire course of chemo. When the doctor told us back in April that Julie would have 16 weeks of this, we had no idea how we were going to do it. Here we are, about two-thirds done, and we can see the end. And, we know it is working: both from the last MRI results (which showed the cancer mass significantly smaller than when diagnosed, as well as no evidence of cancer spread beyond her boob), and the fact that she can lay on her front at night without the discomfort she was feeling just weeks ago.

We have much to be grateful for. My folks were able to visit us for a while in Longview and our last chemo in Seattle. We enjoyed seeing them, and celebrated an early Father's Day and Julie's B-Day before we came home.

Life at Jan and Mikey's house in Longview has been easy and a great place for Julie to retreat to between chemo dates. They say that house guests are like fish... they both start to stink after about three days. To their credit, they have been wonderful hosts, and exceedingly accommodating. We get the downstairs "apartment," so Julie can lay on the couch and alternate TV and the bathroom all the long day (while I am at work), without imposing on our hosts. Jan, you and Mike have made this so much easier for us, God bless you. And to all our Seattle-based friends who have offered us to stay with you, please do not take this personally. Indeed, we can remain friends better this way!! Although we do need to do a better job of getting together with you when we are in the big city...

Julie got a Costco sheet cake to take to her work Friday, as a Thank You offering to all her co-workers who have un-selfishly donated so much leave time to her. We are tremendously humbled by the depth of support you all have shown. I was able to ditch work for a while to meet Julie at her work for the party, and to meet so many of the people behind the e-mail addresses that I send this to. I am glad to know that Julie has so many wonderful folks around her at the Legislative Affairs Agency and the Capitol.

Most of you know about the fundraiser that was held yesterday at the Auke Bay Fire Station. I don't know what to say... my brothers and sisters at Capital City Fire/Rescue and the Coast Guard, and Julie's co-workers at the L.A.A. came together with neighbors and raised almost $3500. I can't tell you all thank you enough...

Thank you.

It was amazing... Neither Julie nor I have ever seen anything like this. Julie was amazed that so many people turned out and were so generous of their time, talent and treasure. She didn't know that she had such a big "foot print" in the community, and aside from the money to help us get out from behind all the travel and out-of-pocket medical expenses, she realizes how many folks care so much about her. I have tried to tell her this, but she needed to see it for herself. My words seem so feeble to the task, but know that I am so incredibly proud to be part of the Juneau community, and to have the honor of calling you all family. God bless you all for your kindness and support!!

Still, Julie and I wish for normalcy. "Cancer-free by Christmas" is the new mantra, and we know we will get there. Then we look forward to being 'just folks' again, instead of Cancer-girl and Care-giver.

We go back to Seattle Wednesday, and we will stay in Longview thru Julie's last chemo on July 24th. We hope to know soon about a date for surgery, and when the Docs will let her come back to Juneau for a pre-surgical "recovery" from the chemicals. It can't be soon enough...

As for your humble writer, I am endeavoring to take care of myself, and keep fresh so that I can take care of Julie. This visit, I stayed busy between my Coast Guard work and my house and yard and dogs, and cycling hard with the pooches, and it has been good, but gone way too fast. There is a great care-giver support group that meets at Swedish the same day (Thursdays) as Julie's chemo, so I am looking forward to getting with those fine folks again. And I really need to continue rehabilitating my wrist, so I am going to start frequenting the climbing gyms in Portland as I commute to work at Coast Guard Sector Portland. Ah, I relax just thinking about getting to do some climbing...

Please know that we cherish your support and positive energy. Also know, Julie loves to get replies to these e-mails, so it really isn't a bother to write. Bless you all,

Ken and Julie
Cancer Sucks!!

On The Road Again

2008-06-02T08:30:00.000-07:00

June 2, 2008 - On the Road Again

Dear family and friends,

My gentle reader will forgive me for not being particularly inspired for this update. I know, your expectations are high, and I suspect that the pressure may finally be getting to me. Too bad. To quote the list of most overused quotes from 2007, "it is what it is..."

We have moved down to Longview, Washington, to stay with Julie's mom (and her husband, Mikey) for a week-and-a-half until Julie's next chemo treatment in Seattle on the 12th.

We had our little place in the city through the end of May, and so while I was on a business trip to New Orleans (no, I will not even try to explain this), Julie's daughter, Jessica, and her boyfriend, Nick, were in Seattle for Julie's 4th chemo to take care of Cancer Girl. They packed up all our accumulated stuff, and cleaned the bathroom and the oven and the fridge, and we were ready to go. I don't know how much crap we'll have to leave south when we're all done, because we filled the back of Mikey's pick-up truck, and I don't think even "our" airline will let us check that much baggage.

Jan and Mikey have a wonderful house in a quiet neighborhood, and have graciously allowed us to have the downstairs... bedroom, living room and bathroom. It is very nice. We have rented a car while we are here, so that I can commute down to Portland to work at the Coast Guard office there, and so we can bogey up to Seattle if we need to. Apparently, since I am regarded to be the best cook of the four of us, well, at least it is better than doing the dishes... Perhaps that is the source of my writer's block: stress over high culinary expectations.

Back to Julie: her chemo last Thursday went well. This was the fourth of the eight she will have, and that's like halfway through, which is good. Also good is the part about the specific chemo drugs... this was the last of the dreaded "AC" toxi-soup. That crap is/was awful. The final four chemo's are a different preparation, called Taxol. This is supposed to be a bit easier on her system, with less side effects. This is good.

Julie also had an MRI last week. The three conclusions: first, still nothing on the right side. Second, the cancer "mass" is smaller and has less volume when compared to the MRI in April, and has a lower density. Lastly, there is still no evidence that the cancer has moved beyond her left breast and into any of the associated lymphatic system. This is excellent news, as it means that the chemo has been doing what it is supposed to, and this whole chemical ordeal has been for good cause. Whahoooo!!!

We are flying back to Juneau on Friday the 13th, to spend a little time with house and dogs and "normal" life. We are then back south on June 25th, in time for chemo # 6. We greatly look forward to seeing our Juneau friends and coworkers... we think about y'all constantly.

We continue to be blessed with good news, kindnesses, and good folks surrounding us with positive energy. Julie feels better this cycle, with only a fraction of the discomfort she had two weeks ago. Things are better.

Ken and Julie

F_&#$@*@ CANCER

2008-05-22T08:23:00.000-07:00

May 22, 2008 *&%$#@* CANCER

Dear Family and Friends,

Gentle readers, I apologize. I just now realize that I have not posted an update in two weeks - so much for weekly missives. mea culpa. It has been a busy time, and I slacked. Believe me, it is not that I don't care; we have been busy, life has become a more up-and-down affair, and it is pretty much all my fault (but more on that later).

We have had some very nice folks pay us kindnesses, and hopefully Julie and I have thanked you. I continue to be profoundly touched by everyone who has brought over food, sent Starbuck's cards, let Julie fly in the front of the plane, provided comforting words at a bad time, gave her a cool hat, or any of the other "little" things. And there are all the wonderful people who are praying and sending positive energy into the universe, focused in Julie's direction. We thank you all. Julie notes that she is surprised at how some of her most "casual" friends have stepped up since her diagnosis and really made a big difference. We had a wonderful "visit" back home, but it was waaaaay too short.

Julie was able to get to her work for a few days during the second week of the chemo cycle. It is hard for her to show weakness, but she was truly overwhelmed by all the love and support expressed by her co-workers. Her first day, she worked too long, and I think she now realizes that despite being stubborn, she really is only going to be good for half-days at work. I know that Julie tried hard to achieve some sense of normalcy, and almost succeeded. She flew south to Seattle last Wednesday, in time for chemo application number three of eight. Julie's mom, Jan, picked her up at the airport and took care of her until my trip down last Sunday. Chemo went OK, and although I missed being with Julie, I took some comfort at the fact that her mom got a chance to see the process herself and give me a bit of a break, and I also got to sleep with the two dogs at home, on the Comfort-pedic (which never happens when mama is home).
Following the pattern of the previous two chemo's, Friday and Saturday were pretty good, and it gave Julie and Jan an opportunity to get out of the apartment and see (and eat) some of Seattle. Jan really took wonderful care of Julie, and we are so very grateful that we have family close by. Thanks, Mom!!

Meanwhile in Juneau, I continued to try to find more ways to save kilowatt-hours, and like many of us affected by the Snettisham "inconvenience," I have learned to read the power meter, and started to record the daily consumption. I had a bunch of chores to finish before I was to fly south, which resulted in the house and yard in immaculate condition for our pair of house-sitters. It was a ton of honey-do's, and I somehow managed to get it all done with nary a complaint or excuse. Yep, 20 pounds of dog poo picked off the grass, dishes, laundry, making the beds, vacuum and sweep the floors, scrub the bathroom, recycling to the dump, and hiking with the dogs. And yes, the gentle reader would be completely correct in duly noting that if I hadn't done these tasks (as arduous as they were), Cancer-girl would have had to, and that wouldn't be right. Obviously - my fault. Pretty much everything has become my fault. I caused the cancer because I moved Julie to God-forsaken Alaska. I caused the cancer because I didn't touch Julie's boobs enough. I caused the cancer because Julie didn't get enough direct sunlight.

I know the wonderful, loving Lady I married never had any of the grumpy bitchiness that she has now, so it must be the cancer ` which is my fault. But fear not, gentle reader, I have a fairly thick skin. Besides, being able to support this marvelous babe is worth it. Seriously, she is a fighter, and even when at her lowest, she can still muster a smile or laugh, or at least a smirk, all telling me, "hey, this sucks worse than anything I have ever had to deal with, and I am not happy, but I AM GOING TO KICK THIS F#$%@# $ CANCER'S ASS!!" I am honored to stand at her side.

This past week has been the worst for her. I would add, "so far," but that would jinx it and again, it would be my fault. Sunday, Julie was getting stomach cramps and pain, and feeling very uncomfortable. By Monday, the tummy cramps became akin to someone standing on her belly, and she started the Big D once again, and just ached all over. By the afternoon, we called the oncologist's nurse and she told us to come into the clinic Tuesday morning for some tests, and some IV hydration and meds. Julie got a few liters of saline, some pain meds, and some more Ativan to help relax her system. She took a nice nap, and felt much better. They also collected blood, urine and stool samples to see if there was a cause other than the chemo drugs.

By the way, if you ever find a cool whip container near a medical lab, don't open it.

It would have been easier to understand the root cause of the distress if the tests had come back positive for an infection, but nothing grew out of the cultures after 48 hours.

The lesson I learned was this: stubborn Julie is wrong to think that pain meds are a sign of weakness, and enabler Ken screwed up by not forcing her to take pain meds when she was in pain, instead of letting us get behind the symptoms. And not pushing enough fluids. The nurse "yelled" at us and told us to take the meds, as that's how they justify their jobs as purveyors of the finest chemistry. The clinic nurse who took care of Julie for the hydration Tuesday told us that she has been a cancer nurse for 30-some years, and in the bad old days they gave the every-other week AC chemo soup and then locked the patient in a room with only a bucket and instructions to gut it out, and that was it. Nowadays, the oncological community has all sorts of wonder drugs, and the will to use them. The patients, and their care-givers, only need ask. The bottom line: Ken is going to ride Julie harder to take better care of herself. And I only hope that in the process, I can pick up a tenth of the compassion and sensitivity of all the nurse-angels that bless and help us at every turn.

I am hopeful that Julie will feel better for the long weekend, as she enters the second week of this chemo phase. The fourth chemo next week will be the last of the AC formula, and then the last four treatments will be another drug that should be easier on her digestive tract, and have fewer side effects. Julie noted the other day that she wasn't prepared for feeling so badly, and I told her that everyone else seemed to get the idea that she was going to be worse than she is right now. I reckon that it's all the perspective of where you stand. Julie has a repeat MRI Friday. The doctor wants to see if there's a change in the size and location of the cancer, and it should let him gauge if any mid-chemo course correction is needed. I have to take along some paperwork to the diagnostic center, so that I won't have any fun either while Julie sits in the tube.

We move out of our "city place" at the end of the month, and we will stay down the road in Longview, WA, with Jan and her Mike for about two weeks until the chemo on June 12, and then maybe back to Juneau for another almost-two week visit. Still deciding on that one.

Enough of my drivel: I have over-extended the courtesy of my gentle readers. Once again, thank you all. Please stay in touch.

Julie and Ken
*&%$#@& CANCER!!

Hairless Rocks!!!!

2008-05-07T08:19:00.000-07:00

May 7, 2008 ~ Hairless Rocks!!!!!

Gentle readers, no sordid tales of Julie's delicates this week... and I apologize for taking so long to get back to y'all.

The oncologist told us that Julie could travel back home to Juneau between chemo treatments for a week, which Julie interpreted as meaning less than two weeks, or 12 days. We used some miles to fly back North at the "last" minute, and booked the cheapie tickets back to Seattle, as we had 14-days in advance for the return. While it is pretty great to have your "own" airline named after the coolest place on the planet, the down side is the monopoly they have on the very same named state.

Last week ended well... Julie was feeling much better, her white cell counts on Thursday were good, and she had an OK energy level. Chemo went well, we tried to eat all the perishables out of the 'fridge in our "vacation" home, packed light, got some sleep. Friday early, Julie climbed the hill up to the Doc's office and got her Neulasta shot, we hailed down a cab to the airport, and had enough time at the check-in to allow Julie to pull out her "cancer card." This refers to the very sad story that you get issued when once diagnosed with cancer... to be taken out and used with care when the circumstances dictate. So, Julie adroitly played the cancer card with the check-in lady, and since we do have some really nice folks that work for our airline (being Alaskans, at least in spirit), we got bumped up to cancer class... err, first class, I mean. It was a comfy flight, and we were home.

Course, the bags took forever to come out from the back... all you non-locals won't understand that one, but everyone in Juneau is probably smiling at how well our airline takes care of our baggage.

The chemo and Neulasta caught up with Julie Friday night, and so we had a quiet weekend, mostly on the couch except for me taking the dogs out. The awful, dreadful part of the weekend was the losing of the hair. The Doc had told Julie that she would lose her hair two-weeks and four days after the first chemo. Technically, this should have been Monday, but apparently Julie's golden locks never got the memo. What this meant was that not only did she lose her hair, but it happened two days "early."

It went like this: Saturday morning there's all this hair on her pillow. She takes a shower shortly thereafter, and then I get called to remove all this gross and yucky hair from the drain. Julie has me get the electric shears from under the sink, attach the "Number 1," which renders a cut 1/8-th of an inch from the surface, and she proceeds to buzz what little I have. She tells me that she is using me as a model so that she can see how she will look. I figure what the heck, as I already promised to shave my head, and now I only have to get the Number 1. She says OK, let's get this over, and she hands me the electric shears with the Number 1.

I could tell an interesting vignette about the last time I cut anyone else's hair really short with a power tool, but my gentle reader will have to tempt me in person with an amber-colored beverage. Suffice to say that cutting Julie's hair was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do, but strength and unconditional support was the order of the day and so I cut her hair. I think her head is actually well-shaped, and she is still the most beautiful woman I know - hair or not.

Chemo really kicked in on Sunday and her whole day was spent on the couch... Monday and Tuesday were pretty much the same. She felt very fatigued and muscles sore n' ache-y... she did as little as she could handle and got lots of rest. Wednesday was much better but still very fatigued... it took her half the day to get the floors done, a little at a time. She did make it out of the house today to Wally's mart for some new bandanas, so now her lovely, hairless noggin can be covered in a rainbow of colors. She is feeling better tonight, and expresses a desire to head to work tomorrow. Not sure how long she will last but knowing Julie she will push as far as she can. She has been very good at taking care of herself, and wants to think that she is not being stubborn, but the truth is I don't argue with her... Julie defines "busy body," so it drives her crazy to sit and do nothing. The lack o' energy is the worst part, and it is often painful for me to watch.

I am back at work, where I really belong, with lots to do. My "crisis" at work continues to be Heads and Guts, and folks who can't seem to make common sense prevail so that my beloved service can continue to do what we do best. Again, for details, the amber-colored bribe... I am however, seriously, extremely grateful and humbled for the support of my colleagues.

We appreciate all the love and support, and if anyone wants to have us for dinner, well, that would be cool. Give me a break from cooking... or, I could come cook at your house. Thanks again,

Ken and Julie

Reaction to Chemo - This is Some Funny "Shit"

2008-04-28T08:09:00.000-07:00

April 28, 2008 Reaction to Chemo ~ This is some funny "SHIT"!!

Dear Family and Friends,

First order of business is to pass along Julie's heartfelt thanks to everyone who has sent cards, letters, and (especially) presents. On a personal note, I appreciate the "research material" sent along by her co-workers at the Legislature to help with breast reconstructive option selection. Apparently, the choices are many and varied, and often eye-opening. Thank you, thank you.

Chemotherapy. a week-and-a-half into the first cycle, and Julie is doing amazingly well. Which is not to say that she hasn't been affected; rather it has not been as hard as we had expected. The docs all say that everyone handles it differently, which I think is really just a way to avoid being wrong. See what I mean:

Scenario # 1: Ken, to Doc - "Julie is doing great. She hardly feels different at all!"
Doc, to Ken (with serious expression) - "Well, that's great. Everyone handles it differently."
Or, Scenario # 2: Ken, to Doc (with serious expression) - "Julie is like crap. She has devolved into a sobbing mass of fetal position at the base of the toilet, pukes 20 hours a day, and is begging for death."
Doc, to Ken (with serious expression) - "Well, it is chemotherapy, after all. Everyone handles it differently."
Either way, they are right.

But, back to Julie. She has had little to no nausea after the first few days. The "dreaded second day after" came and went with a few pills and little of the anticipated upset. The shot of Neulasta, meant to boost white blood cell production so that the toxic soup can continue to be pumped into her every other week, gave her considerable joint and bone pain, but that eased over a few days. She has been getting out with me and walking around downtown, and that helps both spirit and body.

The other side effect that bothers her most will be perhaps upsetting to my more sensitive readers. If you are easily unsettled, skip this paragraph. If, on the other hand, you are like me and take a weird (prurient?) interest in the yucky part of biology, please by all means read on. She is "enjoying" frequent painful bowel movements. I mean, the shit just keeps coming out. Literally. She told the Doc that she is crapping on the hour, and her ass is bloody painful and afire (or, on fire, for non-mariners). I can't spell hemorrhoids, so I will just say that Julie has a painful and bloody ass. The Doc "enjoyed" an unscheduled and up-close examination of Julie's posterior this afternoon, after Julie finally said "6 days of this shit is enough. for the love of God, make it stop." or, words to that effect. So we have a tube of steroidal cream for the 'roid, and orders to adopt a low fiber and low residue diet. Which means, Jessica (and I know that you are reading this about your Mom's ass), that all of the healthy foodstuffs you so lovingly bought us are off-limits, and your Mom has to eat highly processed foods with no fiber and little-to-no nutritive value. Turns out, the only truly effective way to stop crapping is to stop eating. Barring that, we are told to make food even blander and mild and more processed than before. I think the Doc's exact words to me were, "Bananas. Rice. Applesauce. Toast." No multi-grains, no whole-wheat, no seeds, nuts or fruit. No raw vegetables. No healthy carbs. Just crappy food, so that you stop crapping so hard.

That was surprisingly difficult to write, trying to balance Julie's dignity against the clinical reality. I am thinking that none of my gentle readers will ever think of my darling Julie's rectum in the same way ever again.

Her white cell counts have been very good. The extent of her symptoms and reaction to the chemo is really mild, in the big scheme of things. The prognosis is still for a complete cure by the end of this process. Still, it is serious, and all kidding aside, her Oncologist doesn't want to let her go back to Juneau to continue chemo. This doctor is a wonderful and caring professional, and he wants to keep Julie close by.

We are going to stay at Swedish for the remainder of the now almost 14 weeks of chemo she has left. He will let her travel home occasionally for a week at a time between cycles, but then back here to Seattle for treatment. We appreciate that the rarity and serious potential of this inflammatory cancer means we can't take this less seriously than what it is. the fight of her life. Still, we miss Juneau and the dogs, so we are planning to return for a short visit, as soon as I can navigate Alaska Air's website to figure out the cheapest combination of mileage award and "bargain" fares. We will update those travel plans soon for y'all, but we are planning to travel North on Friday the 2nd and back South on the 14th.

We have had a couple of great visits with family and close-by pals, and we have been able to parlay those into trips to stores outside of the downtown area. This is to say, stores that don't remind us of the prices we pay in Alaska. Still and all, Julie enjoys the window-shopping in downtown, and she likes to think that I might actually say, "sure, why not?!" when asked about a $500 Coach purse. And maybe monkeys might fly out of my cheapskate arse.

We are settling into the apartment, or as we like to call it, "our little place in the city." I actually cooked a roast at home for Sunday dinner yesterday, and apparently, sat watching TV on the couch instead of writing an update on Julie. So, here ya go. Hope you enjoyed my pitiful attempt at humor.

Julie is a real trooper, and in great spirits. We are firmly in the game for her fight. We think of our supporters often, and I eagerly check e-mails for replies to read to the Princess. Please don't disappoint her.

God bless you all,
Ken and Julie

Chemo 101

2008-04-26T07:53:00.000-07:00

April 16, 2008 ~ Chemo 101

You already know the bad news... Julie has inflammatory breast cancer. It sucks. She has been ultrasounded, biopsied, MRI'ed, CAT scanned, injected with radioactive shit and fluoresced, bled, poked and prodded. She has been a trooper through it all, but it still sucked.

The good news we got today is that there is no evidence that any cancer has spread beyond the left breast. This will greatly increase the probability of complete eventual cure. This is a very good development. The docs are noticeably happier...

Much has happened since Friday when Julie got diagnosed. Immediately after the bad news from the doctor, she spent a dreadful 3 hours in the CAT scan tube trying to: a) stay still, b) ignore the noise, c) not freak out from claustrophobia, and d) digest that fact that she'd just found out that our suspicions were true. Add to that that she hadn't been allowed to eat anything since a quick all-protein breakfast at 0600, and if you know how grumpy a hungry-Julie can get, well...

When she was finished, we sat outside in the sunshine and talked and hugged and cried for a bit. We both needed to get it out, but it galvanized the desire to fight this, and we decided to focus on the positive and making the most of the weekend.

Julie's mom, Jan, and her Mike and daughter Jessica came up on Saturday for a nice visit. We got out to the Woodland Park Zoo, and with a sunny day of almost 80 degrees in April, we shared the zoo with what seemed like half the inhabitants of Seattle. Everyone was outdoors, and we seemed to spend as much time circling for a parking spot as we did looking at the animals. But it was good for Julie to have a bit of time with mom and daughter.

Sunday was gray and cool, but we slept in, and then walked all over downtown. We caught up with my brother, Dave, visiting Pike Street Market with 59 of his high school band students on a field trip/band competition from Sacramento in California. It was good to see him, however brief.

Monday morning early Julie had a bone scan to determine whether or not there was any cancer spread to her bones (only an hour test this time), and we met with the radiology oncologist. After the mastectomy, we can expect a treatment of radiation of five days-a-week over a six week period, performed here at Swedish.

Today was as busy; we met the medical oncologist, and had an accelerated course of "Chemotherapy 101." Our first treatment decision... 27-weeks of chemo once a week or 16-weeks of chemo every other week. Of course, no serious decision lacks a multitude of both pluses and minuses, and this decision doesn't either. The shorter is (obviously) more intense and prone to greater side effect, but the longer almost insures staying in Seattle for the course and has a few other disadvantages (like Julie having to self administer injections daily for the white-cell drugs). At this point, we are going to go with the 16-week protocol, since it will give us more flexibility if she handles the drugs well. Mostly, it allows us to plan a possible return to Juneau after the first 2-week cycle if it goes well. That is the plan today, but ya know what they say about wartime... the best plans seldom survive first contact with the enemy.

Tuesday afternoon we looked at a furnished apartment just a block-and-a-half from the Baroness. While expensive, it works out to be half the cost of staying in a hotel, with the added benefit of having a real kitchen, instead of the closet-turned-kitchenette we "enjoy" now. While we do enjoy eating out, after a week we've about had about enough of restaurants... too much food, too much $'s, too little sense of control. Julie and I firmly believe a kitchen will make a huge difference, especially during this first two-week cycle of chemo. We will keep y'all up-to-date on the housing.

Wednesday started early: 7am at the day surgery check-in, then an hour-long procedure to implant/insert/install the porta-cath for the chemo. The doctors had her under general anesthesia, so she woke up slow and took about three hours in recovery before her headache (dehydration? no caffeine? stress? no food all day? all of the above!) subsided enough to leave. The surgery itself went well, the docs were happy (always a good sign), and she is taking a nap as I type this. The chemo starts Thursday after lunch, and then we see...

Julie appreciates all the replies of support and concern. The fact that we are now TREATING the cancer and not diagnosing the problem is making all the difference in our getting on with it. Thank you all, and

God bless, Ken and Julie

First Chemo and Reactions

2008-04-20T08:04:00.000-07:00

April 20, 2008 ~ First Chemo and Reactions

Julie and I are in our cozy little apartment on a slow, lazy and bone-aching Sunday. A few things have happened since last I wrote on Wednesday.

Thursday started with a quick move to the new digs. just a block-and-a-half farther walk, and about $1k a month savings over continued hotel stays. Only two trips to get all our crap moved, but we had a deadline with Julie's chemotherapy appointment. With the headache Julie had coming out of surgical anesthesia for the porta-cath, and the slow transition back to functionality, it ended up being a good thing that the first chemo had been postponed a day to Thursday.

Chemo took a while to administer, mostly because it was the first time and the nurse took the time to explain the process to us. First, the blood draw at the Lab to get the counts. white blood cells, all that. Then see the Doc for a quick chat and progress check. We love Julie's Oncologist, he is really good. He takes his time with her, never rushes, and is very empathetic. Then we go up to the third floor where the chemo-suites are located, get all hooked up, and then start about a two-hour series of intravenous meds.

First, she gets two different anti-emetics (see also: nausea, upchuck, porcelain worship, huey, alice, Technicolor yawn, dinosaur-calling, yak), then a relaxer (to help her go nigh-nigh). Then she gets three huge hypos filled with this thick, red goo that is the first of the two chemo drugs (the second is transparent and diluted in a half-liter saline IV bag and rather un-dramatic). We got warned that the red stuff will go thru her fairly quick and turn her urine either orange or red, and should not be confused with blood in her pee. So the chemo-cocktail is called "AC," for the combination of Adriamycin and Cytoxan. Bad stuff, enough so that the staff is all wear isolation (gloves) when handling this shit.

It was all very easy, at least for me. I took a few work calls and read, and Julie tried to read her book (Marley and Me) until the nigh-nigh drugs caused her to stop effective eye focus on the words. But we are treating now, and therefore making progress. The whole purpose is to kill any carcinoma cells that may have escaped the margins, and to shrink the mass so that the surgery in 4 months can scoop all the bad stuff outta her. They warned us that most folks find the second day after chemo to be the worst, but that everyone is different, so who knows?

Friday, we headed back to the doctors for the day-after-chemo shot of Neulasta, which is used to help boost production of white blood cells in the bone marrow - little tiny needle, just under the skin, no problemo. Julie got wrapped up in all the stress and the adjustment to all this, and so had some anxiety at the Doc's office. We laid her down, dimmed the lights, gave her a double of Ativan (a smooth muscle-relaxer that acts to both prevent nausea and anxiety, and thusly Julie's newest best friend), and 20 or 30 minutes later we were good again.

And really, why get stressed about chemo? Was it the $150 (after insurance) of prescriptions filled outside the chemo-clinic on Thursday to treat the expected nausea four different ways? Was it the expectation of nausea sooooo bad that it would be necessary to actually use all four meds? Was it worry, knowing that Saturday was going to be the dreaded 2-days-after? Julie is brave. I think I would have cracked already.

Friday afternoon Julie's mom, daughter and friend Melody from Medford all showed up for a visit. They brought up a ton of stuff: house wares, consumables and food. Way too much stuff, but it certainly helps turn this "furnished" apartment into someplace we can actually live in for the time being. Julie and I were both taken aback by the amount of goods the ladies delivered. Thanks to all our friends who joined the effort. Heck, I can live anywhere (and believe me, I have Spartan in my blood), but I am glad that Julie is able to settle in and have one less thing to worry about.

Jessica made a healthy chicken and vegetable stir-fry over rice for the 5 of us, and the women all had a wonderful estrogen-fest while I tried to watch BattleStar Gallactica (was it too much to ask to be able to actually hear the action?). Seriously, for the day after chemo, Julie was doing pretty well, with credit due to her new friend, Ativan. Saturday was Ladies Day at Costco and Freddie's, to finish the provisioning, while I did some exploring about Seattle by myself. Julie soldiered-on bravely, and was able to maintain a good energy level until about 5-ish when the entourage bid us adieu and set off into the snowy drive on I-5 home. Then she put on her jammies and melted into the couch. Which pretty much also describes today, except that she is feeling soreness and pain in her chest and head, which is probably the Neulasta acting in her bones. At first this morning she thought that it was the precursor to a cold, but when she called the doctor-on-call, she was told that while on chemo, she should expect to feel bad. Hello!!

So, Sunday was quiet and calm, and spent on the couch (except for Ken who felt compelled to run 5 miles on the treadmill). Julie is fatigued and ache-y, but taking just enough meds to stay on top of it. I am very proud of her. "One chemo down and only seven to go," she keeps saying.

Julie welcomes any avenues, advice or alternatives we haven't considered to try to make this as easy and affordable as possible, given the long period of treatment we are facing. Please advise. She wishes you all well, as do I, and we are humbled to have such support from y'all. Please keep her in your thoughts, and I will try to write shorter and more frequently.

God bless, Ken and Julie

Chemo 101

2008-04-16T07:59:00.000-07:00

April 16, 2008 ~ Chemo 101

You already know the bad news... Julie has inflammatory breast cancer. It sucks. She has been ultrasounded, biopsied, MRI'ed, CAT scanned, injected with radioactive shit and fluoresced, bled, poked and prodded. She has been a trooper through it all, but it still sucked.

The good news we got today is that there is no evidence that any cancer has spread beyond the left breast. This will greatly increase the probability of complete eventual cure. This is a very good development. The docs are noticeably happier...

Much has happened since Friday when Julie got diagnosed. Immediately after the bad news from the doctors, she spent a dreadful 3 hours in the CAT scan tube trying to: a) stay still, b) ignore the noise, c) not freak out from claustrophobia, and d) digest that fact that she'd just found out that our suspicions were true. Add to that that she hadn't been allowed to eat anything since a quick all-protein breakfast at 0600, and if you know how grumpy a hungry-Julie can get, well...

When she was finished, we sat outside in the sunshine and talked and hugged and cried for a bit. We both needed to get it out, but it galvanized the desire to fight this, and we decided to focus on the positive and making the most of the weekend.

Julie's mom, Jan, and her Mike and daughter Jessica came up on Saturday for a nice visit. We got out to the Woodland Park Zoo, and with a sunny day of almost 80 degrees in April, we shared the zoo with what seemed like half the inhabitants of Seattle. Everyone was outdoors, and we seemed to spend as much time circling for a parking spot as we did looking at the animals. But it was good for Julie to have a bit of time with mom and daughter.

Sunday was gray and cool, but we slept in, and then walked all over downtown. We caught up with my brother, Dave, visiting Pike Street Market with 59 of his high school band students on a field trip/band competition from Sacramento in California. It was good to see him, however brief.

Monday morning early Julie had a bone scan to determine whether or not there was any cancer spread to her bones (only an hour test this time), and we met with the radiology oncologist. After the mastectomy, we can expect a treatment of radiation of five days-a-week over a six week period, performed here at Swedish.

Today was as busy; we met the medical oncologist, and had an accelerated course of "Chemotherapy 101." Our first treatment decision... 27-weeks of chemo once a week or 16-weeks of chemo every other week. Of course, no serious decision lacks a multitude of both pluses and minuses, and this decision doesn't either. The shorter is (obviously) more intense and prone to greater side effect, but the longer almost insures staying in Seattle for the course and has a few other disadvantages (like Julie having to self administer injections daily for the white-cell drugs). At this point, we are going to go with the 16-week protocol, since it will give us more flexibility if she handles the drugs well. Mostly, it allows us to plan a possible return to Juneau after the first 2-week cycle if it goes well. That is the plan today, but ya know what they say about wartime... the best plans seldom survive first contact with the enemy.

Tuesday afternoon we looked at a furnished apartment just a block-and-a-half from the Baroness. While expensive, it works out to be half the cost of staying in a hotel, with the added benefit of having a real kitchen, instead of the closet-turned-kitchenette we "enjoy" now. While we do enjoy eating out, after a week we've about had about enough of restaurants... too much food, too much $'s, too little sense of control. Julie and I firmly believe a kitchen will make a huge difference, especially during this first two-week cycle of chemo. We will keep y'all up-to-date on the housing.

Wednesday started early: 7am at the day surgery check-in, then an hour-long procedure to implant/insert/install the porta-cath for the chemo. The doctors had her under general anesthesia, so she woke up slow and took about three hours in recovery before her headache (dehydration? no caffeine? stress? no food all day? all of the above!) subsided enough to leave. The surgery itself went well, the docs were happy (always a good sign), and she is taking a nap as I type this. The chemo starts Thursday after lunch, and then we see...

Julie appreciates all the replies of support and concern. The fact that we are now TREATING the cancer and not diagnosing the problem is making all the difference in our getting on with it. Thank you all, and

God bless, Ken and Julie