tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1491761564014527302024-02-19T01:44:26.384-05:00Pink Ribbon Club MemberUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-41802408921017943652014-03-12T09:16:00.000-04:002014-03-12T09:16:16.882-04:00March 12, 2014Thank you all for coming to conferences last week. It was great talking to all of the parents and having some of the students there as well. I am looking forward to continuing to work with your children and finishing the year strong. We will be having a few special days this month, so please take note of the following:<br />
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Destination Education Fridays - Students and staff are encouraged to wear shirts with college logos on Fridays in March as we will be exploring opportunities for education beyond the high school years. <br />
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Early Colonies Day - Wednesday, March 19. Students are being asked to dress up for school as if they were children in the 1700's. Much of the day will be spent learning more about how the early colonists lived.<br />
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Yellow Day - Fifth graders are celebrating (hopefully!) spring by wearing yellow on March 27. Join the fun!!<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-44912781661605765052011-02-19T15:10:00.002-05:002011-02-19T15:15:01.367-05:00This is it!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7cJQ5uyb91QEIHrHSPIAcHIKwVY34n7O3vJIzIm1iVuzaDF8Velzj3guxcK0IxWzX2vXZuClA-i9GILSsEdmrcodPxQCLJ_fpgg5SPq8TxNbZA1XEIHET6WorFRetjG8cER4QyCeFdrKb/s1600/100_8443.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 235px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7cJQ5uyb91QEIHrHSPIAcHIKwVY34n7O3vJIzIm1iVuzaDF8Velzj3guxcK0IxWzX2vXZuClA-i9GILSsEdmrcodPxQCLJ_fpgg5SPq8TxNbZA1XEIHET6WorFRetjG8cER4QyCeFdrKb/s320/100_8443.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575496724455653986" /></a><br />I plan on this being my final blog post. I have completed all chemo treatments and life is pretty much back to normal. I will see the oncologist once every three months for a while, then every 6 months and finally once a year. It has been one crazy year! My family and I would like to thank you all again for your support.<br /><br />Blessings to you all!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-6100460666573134042010-10-19T12:44:00.002-04:002010-10-19T12:55:37.301-04:00Good News!The good news is that Dr. Dodde said everything looks great. I get to go back to teaching tomorrow :) I feel great. Really, really great. I feel so good in fact, that I expected him to tell me I could return to all of my normal activities. Well, that didn't happen. I had to be reminded that I had surgery 8 days ago and if I were to start exercising and lifting heavier objects, I could easily rip open the incisions. He also brought to my attention the fact that my chest is completely numb and if I were to hurt myself, I wouldn't even feel it. So, look out Hamilton El. friends, because ready or not, here I come. (And I have had plenty of alone time to think and I have thought of a few new ideas to run by you :) To my MVP friends, I'll see you in a couple of weeks. To my church friends, can't wait to see many of you tomorrow evening. To my neighbors and friends that don't work during the day, it has been great seeing many of you while I have been home. To all of my other friends, thank you for checking up on me! <br /><br />Happy Breast Cancer Awareness Day!<br /><br />"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isiah 40:31Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-29336318778666502462010-10-17T19:11:00.004-04:002010-10-17T19:18:13.915-04:00I DID IT!When I was first diagnosed with BC, I told my mom I needed a "cancer project." I thought knitting an afghan would be a good idea. Since she loves to knit, she agreed. She had a pattern that she thought I could handle, and together we shopped for yarn. Now the truth is, I stink at knitting, but I have been determined to finish what I started and here it is!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWUAw2mDACUopw3OxT1JsiYcqOFjtzjse4UMH9wMOZpw5B2zlqRDBRTK1PwJsLafIv3P_8xwoqREHvsgZTwJwFC8rGViTmV27NkPbC-G-mbtXOVzzIudcdyxqS8fvUDqqtOM29Gj4sG7q/s1600/100_7499.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWUAw2mDACUopw3OxT1JsiYcqOFjtzjse4UMH9wMOZpw5B2zlqRDBRTK1PwJsLafIv3P_8xwoqREHvsgZTwJwFC8rGViTmV27NkPbC-G-mbtXOVzzIudcdyxqS8fvUDqqtOM29Gj4sG7q/s320/100_7499.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529157841915157794" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQ7ghLwQZjsdWWG8tVGM-2dID-vgzQgSLM4ndkf3abBZu3P9Boirc5NsjmS98s2Uex_2EgHhgYUh4O6qn9nwNOyCbOkkYc5xqePSIp1gYYAWRPOOZqX9ufKoKsjOcGesEtrhzWFaJ6eSl/s1600/100_7496.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQ7ghLwQZjsdWWG8tVGM-2dID-vgzQgSLM4ndkf3abBZu3P9Boirc5NsjmS98s2Uex_2EgHhgYUh4O6qn9nwNOyCbOkkYc5xqePSIp1gYYAWRPOOZqX9ufKoKsjOcGesEtrhzWFaJ6eSl/s320/100_7496.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529157838560508658" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtkHIgjfjBElk2IIF86WmubpXug6t2uaFiyBYTpNbOwx2CLQXEfpXS_7SJcnLjqD9H0fMmjWHPNwAgarPlwR3IIexjVw8Xdi1hO4OHKduDuwxGIbjXdHJg-xUk46konDHwSg_JQcdGkBQ/s1600/100_7497.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtkHIgjfjBElk2IIF86WmubpXug6t2uaFiyBYTpNbOwx2CLQXEfpXS_7SJcnLjqD9H0fMmjWHPNwAgarPlwR3IIexjVw8Xdi1hO4OHKduDuwxGIbjXdHJg-xUk46konDHwSg_JQcdGkBQ/s320/100_7497.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529157833039796962" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-80251506455114362372010-10-13T10:12:00.002-04:002010-10-13T10:42:16.828-04:00As promised....I promised lots of you I would update often while I am home recovering from surgery. There's really not much to tell you at this point. Yesterday my mom and I just kinda kept moving around the house doing some laundry and she was gracious enough to do all of the ironing! As a result of the anniversary celebration we had for my parents back in September, enough donations were made to Love Inc. in their honor that we now have the opportunity to be food distributors from the food truck. Yesterday we were able get this event scheduled for Friday, Feb. 11. BRRR!!!! We also went for a ride to see some of the beautiful fall colors. In the afternoon we watched a movie and worked on our projects. Once the girls came home from school, my mom took Keagan to the doctor since she is still not feeling even close to 100%. More blood tests were taken and we should have the results soon. <br /><br />So, no naps yesterday and I slept pretty well last night. I am MUCH more comfortable with these implants than I was with the expanders!!! Later today I will take take my first peek at them and also take my first shower since Monday :) <br /><br /><br />RobinUnknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-88738807304133685742010-10-12T06:22:00.002-04:002010-10-12T06:33:04.066-04:00Success!!The surgery yesterday was successful! I was coupon shopping at Meijers trying to pass time when my cell rang and it was the hospital asking me to come early! I was so happy. When you are on a no food/no drink diet until after surgery, an hour is a big deal. I was, however, on a roll at Meijers! They have some really good deals there this week!<br /><br />Everything went smoothly. When Dr. Dodde came out to see Randy, he said "Well, I did what I said I was going to do and Robin is doing just fine!." I was home by 5:00. I slept on the couch, had a little dinner, went to bed at 8:15 and slept most of the night. I got up a few times for a drink, but other than that, I slept. I was even able to get comfortable on my side. <br /><br />My mom is coming to spend the day with me today. <br /><br />Thank you, everyone, for your kind thoughts, cards, chocolate, and prayers!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-58441994139057608752010-10-10T14:06:00.002-04:002010-10-10T14:12:08.179-04:00Surgery again!I am scheduled for surgery tomorrow. The purpose of this surgery is to take out the expanders and put in the permanent implants. I have to be at the hospital at 1:15 p.m. for this procedure. Since this is the fifth time I will be under anesthesia since January 23, it is becoming very routine. Please pray with us that the procedure will go well and the healing process will be super speedy. <br /><br />RobinUnknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-61053338336569208732010-09-29T21:01:00.002-04:002010-09-29T21:14:57.029-04:00Quick UpdateJust a quick update tonight. Everything is going so well and we are so busy, I don't update very often! I'll just let you know what my medical calendar looks like for the next couple of weeks. <br /><br />Tomorrow: Herceptin (I only have to miss a half hour of school)<br />Next Tuesday: Dr. Krause (OB check up) I'll be late for school, but I'll be there!<br />Friday, October 8: Run around town with Keagan as we prepare her for the homecoming court. I know it isn't anything medical, let's just hope it doesn't turn into something needing medical attention! I'll be out of school for the entire day.<br />Monday, October 11: Surgery - remove the expanders and place permanent implants.<br />Tuesday, October 19: Post op appointment. Hopefully I'll be able to return to school on the 20th. <br /><br />I've had a 24 hour pity party for myself. I am so enjoying teaching and my life right now that it frustrates me to think of all of these appointments and facing yet another surgery. I'll get through it though!<br /><br />Good night!<br /><br />RobinUnknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-79177049153600000332010-09-20T20:40:00.003-04:002010-09-20T20:54:49.161-04:00Time Flies!Time has been flying by now that school is in full swing! My health and strength have both been cooperating so far. I have had just one appointment that has caused me to miss a half day of teaching, other than that, I have been going at it full speed ahead. Now that my hair is growing in, I have been going without a head cover everywhere I go. It feels so "free" not to have to match my outfit to a head cover :) <br /><br />The second phase of the reconstruction surgery is scheduled for Monday, October 11. Just as was predicted, that is right in the middle of the MEAP test. A year ago I would have said no way, uhuh, find another time. But now, I think it is perfect. What easy sub plans....read the directions and walk around encouraging students to do their best.<br /><br />Keagan is still struggling with mono. We are going on five weeks, I believe. She feels better, does too much, and gets set back. <br /><br />Kylie is enjoying her senior year. The reality of this being her last year of high school is settling in. She's been busy with her classes, teacher assisting, working on college applications, and hostessing at the new Salt and Pepper Pub.<br /><br />This past weekend we had a blast celebrating our parents fiftieth anniversary. The three of us kids hosted a dinner on Saturday night for family and friends at Arboreal Inn. On Sunday morning we all went to Second CRC as the congregation honored them for this occasion. We had a wonderful time and it was especially nice having Brad home from North Carolina.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-9672808520197575582010-08-31T19:09:00.002-04:002010-08-31T19:28:51.914-04:00Oops, I almost forgot!I saw my oncologist this morning for the first time all summer. It was weird, I sorta forgot how to be a patient. My insurance card was laying on my dresser and of course Debbie asked to see it. When the nurse asked me what meds I am currently taking, I realized I left my "pink ribbon bag" at home as well. Ten weeks ago I never would have gone to a doctor without it. It was shocking to realize that the only prescription meds I am currently taking are herceptin and a little somethin' to help me sleep. <br /><br />The visit with Dr. Vanderwoude was very positive. She thinks taking the port out was a very good idea and was pleased with how great my hand and arm look. My blood counts are all good. The muga (heart) test indicated my heart is still in perfectly good shape, and she thinks the mastectomy/implants look very healthy. She even posed with me for a photo for my project. If you are reading this and have not yet been asked to be a part of my project, you probably will in the near future.<br /><br />All three of my doctors have cleared me to return to teaching. I am very excited to start the school year. I stopped by the building yesterday morning and was able to go in and check out the new construction. I was so pleased to see how nicely my room had been packed up at the end of the year and how clean it was that I couldn't wait to start preparing for this year! <br /><br />Keagan is feeling much, much better. Hopefully she will be back to her regular self soon! <br /><br />Take Care!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-62683389199609903602010-08-30T13:57:00.002-04:002010-08-30T14:05:52.856-04:00It's been a while!It has been a while since I have updated! Everything is going well. The recovery from the surgery went smoothly and Dr. Dodde started the expansion process last week. I am uncomfortable at times, but for the most part I feel great. <br />I even pushed the vacuum! My mind is starting to spin with things that need to get done before school starts. I have been able to do a great deal from home to prepare. I have lots of help lined up for Wed., Thur., and Friday of this week, so we should be able to pull the room together without too much trouble. <br /><br />Keagan is feeling better. I have to call the doctors office to find out what the next step is. I believe they will want to do another blood draw sometime soon. Until then, she remains restricted from sports. <br /><br />Take care everybody and enjoy the sunshine!<br /><br />RobinUnknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-91929519786391452432010-08-18T19:06:00.002-04:002010-08-18T19:21:17.966-04:00darn it, Darn It, DARN IT!!!The first darn it is because 2 of our 3 vehicles are in for repairs. Not only an inconvenience, but hard on the pocketbook. I had a 9:00 appointment with Dr. Porter today. I had to hurry home so I could transport Kylie to her new job at 10:00. At 10:45 I had an appointment with Dr. Hoberman which leads me to the 2nd Darn It!<br /><br />I still have the left JP drain. For as anxious as I am to get it out, Dr. Hoberman assured me that if it comes out too early, they have to remove the fluid with a needle, and that doesn't sound too pleasant either. She went over the mastectomy pathology report with me. To my surprise, there was a "small knot" in the tissue of the left breast. A biopsy was done and it was found to be benign. This is all great news, but I can't help but remember that the original lump was also benign in June of 2009 and by January of 2010, it was cancerous. A small knot now could have been......Well, needless to say, I think the bilateral mastectomy was a very good decision. <br /><br />Following this appointment, I flew home to get Keagan. She has not been feeling well and running a very low fever off and on for about a week. I looked at her this morning and knew she needed medical attention. The two of us went to Prime Care to find out that she has mono. DARN IT!!! <br /><br />After my 2:00 lunch, I still had one more appointment and that was to the dentist. I could easily have fallen asleep in the chair, but I didn't. I am 9 days post op and exhausted after this very busy day. <br /><br />Good Night,<br />RobinUnknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-83708112177995055592010-08-16T19:11:00.001-04:002010-08-16T19:11:44.038-04:00LopsidedI was able to get one of the drains out today, but only the right side. I feel very lopsided with one still in! What happens overnight tonight will determine if the left side can be removed tomorrow or if I have to wait until Wednesday. Tomorrow would be nice....taking a shower sure sounds good! <br /><br />Yesterday was not one of my better days. I got very upset during the night and my negative attitude continued throughout the day. I am into lists, so here is a list of some of the things that made me angry:<br /><br />1) Cancer - I HATE it<br />2) How I look - people no longer stare at my head, they stare at my chest<br />3) How I feel - sore and tired<br />4) The left drain was leaking and that was gross<br />5) I don't have a desire to be in big social settings - I'm good with a visit from a friend or two, but many more than that gets overwhelming <br />6) I haven't been a normal female since December<br /><br />I was able to get some sleep last night and today has been a little bit better. Yesterday I cried quite a bit. No tears today. Yesterday I hung up on my mom. Today I finished all of my phone conversations pleasantly. Hopefully tomorrow I will be able to get the other drain out and continue to gain strength and energy. The weather does help, doesn't it! What a beautiful day!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-53372092252274285642010-08-14T16:32:00.002-04:002010-08-14T16:43:32.447-04:00SaturdayRecovery is coming along nicely. Here is a list of things I have done today:<br />*Dishes<br />*Had coffee on the deck with a friend for two hours<br />*Drove myself to get a massage. While I was at Body Perfections, I was recognized by yet another former student! They seem to be everywhere these days!<br />*Chair time - read the mail, facebook, looked at a magazine, did a little preparing for school<br />*Visited with a friend from church<br />*Returned boring movies to Blockbuster<br />*Took Keagan to the theater<br />*Went to Hobby Lobby<br />*Got some groceries at Mejers (had to ask for help three times!)<br /><br />Here is a list of things I did NOT do today<br />*Exercise<br />*Shower<br />*Make it to the Maxson family reunion<br />*Take a nap (yet)<br /><br />All in all, not bad for only 5 days post-op. <br /><br />Thanks for checking up on me! It was nice to run into a few of you on my outings today!<br /><br />RobinUnknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-11861893904092061802010-08-12T10:57:00.002-04:002010-08-12T11:15:27.886-04:00What day is it?I think it is Thursday today, right? The days are all just blending together. Recovery is going well so far. I feel good, but not good enough to get out and do anything and I don't like to be alone. I don't feel bad enough to be on the couch all day either, so I am going a bit stir crazy. Does anybody have any good movie suggestions? I watched "When In Rome" last night. It was o.k.<br /><br />My hair is growing! I have hairy arms and legs again and the hair on my head is coming in slowly, but surely. It appears as though it is going to be darker than it was before with plenty of gray mixed in. My eyebrows look like they are going to be more black than the blond ones I had before chemo. Weird.<br /><br />Kylie is finishing her internship at church this week. Next week she will start training for her new job at the Salt and Pepper Pub in Holland. This is a new restaurant opening up over by Eastern Floral on Lakewood. She has been hired to hostess and is looking forward to this new experience.<br /><br />Keagan started volleyball tryouts yesterday. On Friday the girls find out whether they made the team or not. Between babysitting, sports, family and friends, she keeps plenty busy.<br /><br />Randy is enjoying these summer days. He has been helping me out a ton, as well as taking care of the lawn, car repairs, roofing inspections, and transporting Keagan to various activities. He still enjoys running and I know many of you see him out there pounding the pavement, even in this heat! Crazy man!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-66993746748863373552010-08-10T13:25:00.002-04:002010-08-10T13:28:07.184-04:00I'm HomeIt is currently 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday and I am home! Not quite ready for phone calls and visitors just yet, but it is good to be home. Interestingly 3 out 5 of my nurses on the third floor were former students!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-27969786357542705802010-08-09T20:29:00.004-04:002010-08-09T21:07:27.165-04:00On the Road to Recovery...The surgery was a success!<br />After a late start and a 3 1/2 hour surgery it really was a long day for our mom. <br />But, in the end all that really matters is that the surgery went well.<br />Both doctors felt like it couldn't have gone any better and better yet, they said the tissue looked healthy!<br />Tonight, the nurses are going to try to get her to sit up and maybe even walk.<br /><br />Our Mom wanted all you to know that she is resting comfortably in the hospital.<br /><br />Please continue to keep her in your prayers as she is recovering.<br /><br />-Randy, Kylie and Keagan<br /><br />"The Lord, the God of King David, says, "I have heard your prayer. I have seen your tears. And I will heal you." " -2 Kings 20:5Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-35211794489910414422010-08-08T12:33:00.002-04:002010-08-08T12:45:13.024-04:00Surgery DetailsWell, tomorrow is going to be a big day. I am scheduled for surgery at 12:30. Randy and I have to be at the hospital at 11:00, surgery begins at 12:30 is is expected to take 210 minutes. I'm a little anxious about it, but not too bad. Boating, visiting with friends, going to the beach and a "to do" list have kept me very busy these past two weeks. I have been feeling surprisingly well and have had lots of energy! Please be in prayer tomorrow thanking God for carrying us through cancer this far and that he will continue to be with us through the surgery and recovery. I appreciate all of the cards, flowers, and phone calls of well wishes that so many of you have sent.<br /><br />Blessings, <br />RobinUnknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-23102000314016846812010-07-30T09:27:00.001-04:002010-07-30T09:27:42.542-04:00UpdateEverything went well yesterday. I hadn't been to cancer and hematology in three weeks and two days! After that appointment, we went to see Dr. Dodde. I had a consultation with him regarding the upcoming surgery and he also removed a spot off my back. It is a little sore today, but not bad. The worst part would be the restrictions that I didn't think about. I am not supposed to shower for 24 hours...no big deal. I am not supposed to "soak" for a week....big deal. That means no recreational swimming or swimming for exercise. I am not supposed to "sweat" for a week either....another big deal. I guess I might have to settle for staying in the air conditioned house working on my Alaska album and maybe, just maybe start thinking about school. <br /><br />The spot that he removed will be analyzed by a pathologist. I don't know when I will get the results. Probably not anytime real soon. The stitches are scheduled to be removed at the hospital before I have surgery on Monday, August 9.<br /><br />In regards to the upcoming mastectomy, I am scheduled for Monday, August 9. The hospital will call me a day or two before and let me know the scheduled time. Pray that it is early in the day. The surgery should take about three hours total. I will be staying in the hospital for one, possibly two nights. I have updated the meal calendar as we are hoping to have some meals brought in next week. It would be nice, too, if some of you would like to make a meal that we can stick in the freezer. <br /><br />Please continue to pray for all who have been affected by cancer. <br /><br />RobinUnknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-34059378230016436282010-07-22T16:20:00.002-04:002010-07-22T16:34:57.935-04:00I'm Back!We are back from our vacation to Alaska. A great time was had by all. We were amazed by the beauty of the inside passage. Vacouver, BC is a very, very cool city too. That is where our cruise started. We were spoiled rotten on the ship for 7 days, followed by 2 days in Anchorage before we flew home. I felt fantastic the whole time. The swelling in my hand and arm has come down considerably. I am convinced heat and humidity have something to do with the swelling. I told the nurse at the oncology office that I think vacations should be prescribed for every patient about a month after chemo treatments are finished. (That way the insurance company could pay for it!) <br /><br />I have a pretty big day scheduled for next week Thursday, July 29. First, at 1:00, I will have my 3 week dose of herceptin. There is a suspicious spot on my back that needs to come off by Dr. Dodde and that is scheduled for 4:00. It will be biopsied once it is removed. Please pray for good results on that. <br /><br />The mastectomy is scheduled for August 9. I hope to spend lots of time by the water with friends and family between now and then. And yes, I hope to go back to teaching in the fall. <br /><br />RobinUnknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-86695144260873041802010-07-08T20:13:00.003-04:002010-07-08T20:19:48.446-04:00And the Venogram says....Three IV's later, Dr. Nye determined that what was once a blood clot is now a completely blocked vein and according to him, it always will be. He said this is a result of the port and I will have to live with it. I don't understand it and I am anxious to talk to my oncologist. I am disappointed to say the least. <br /><br />RobinUnknownnoreply@blogger.com89tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-48259254713190508352010-07-06T16:52:00.002-04:002010-07-06T16:57:07.570-04:00More TestsWhen Dr. VanderWoude saw my hand and arm today, she decided to order a venogram. YUK! YUK! YUK! I had this test done at the hospital on March 1, and I was really hoping I would never have to have it done again. The worst part about it is the room they do it in. It is huge and scary. She said it is the best way to determine how best to treat the blood clot. So, I guess if it gets me off the Lovenox shots, I'll do it. It is scheduled for 3:15 on Thursday. <br /><br />The girls and I are busy packing!! <br /><br />RobinUnknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-45740759698282913822010-07-04T20:44:00.002-04:002010-07-04T20:51:37.994-04:00Time FliesTime really flies when you are feeling good and having fun! I have been feeling great this past week. I have enjoyed the boat, the pool, the cottage, sunshine, and lots of friends and family this past week. My hand and arm are still swollen, but it hasn't been bothering me too much. Dr. Hoberman said we just have to give the blood clot time to clear. I have an appointment with Dr. VanderWoude (oncologist) this week Tuesday. I haven't seen her in almost 6 weeks. I hope she remembers me!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-65766418599835593972010-06-26T11:28:00.002-04:002010-06-26T11:30:42.734-04:00No MagicI was hoping my hand and arm would magically deflate like a popped balloon once the port came out. No such luck. I have a post op appointment next week, so I guess we wait and see what the doc has to say. (She did warn me that I shouldn't expect it to magically get better.) I hope you are all enjoying this beautiful weather!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149176156401452730.post-68581089445492068852010-06-24T17:51:00.004-04:002010-06-24T20:37:34.871-04:00Port RemovalLast night Dr. Hoberman called and asked if I could possibly come to the hospital around 1:00 rather than 5:45. She was concerned that another patient might not be showing up for surgery which would leave the 1:00 time slot open. I told her that I had an appointment at Cancer and Hematology for herceptin at 1:00, but I would try to get it done earlier in the day so that I could be available if indeed the earlier time ended up being available. We talked about lovenox and herceptin schedules, but we failed to discuss the eating/drinking restrictions. I was able to get herceptin done at 10:00, and shortly after I got the call to be at the hospital at 1:00. I had eaten a half of a bagel at 8:00 and man, that was the talk of the OR. There wasn't a physician in there who didn't know that I had eaten at 8:00! I was just following the directions that were given to me for the time I was originally scheduled for. At any rate, the port is out. I have had bendaryl drip and sedation today. I am sleepy!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6