Lynne's Fight

Loss in the new year...

2010-01-12T07:32:00.003-06:00

It is with a sad heart that I write this...my Grandmother Ham passed at 1230 this morning. We spent a wonderful family Christmas with her and my Pop on Christmas Eve and all seemed to be looking like a normal, uneventful new year.

It was on Sunday evening that she was rushed to the hospital. She had an anurism and was put in ICU on life support. Before that she, along with my Aunt Cindy and her family, had gone to the nursing home to visit with my Pop. My cousin Stephanie said they had a good week and weekend. I'm so happy that they have always lived next to Maw-Maw & Pop. She and her brother Jake were able to have a relationship with their grandparents that not nearly enough are blessed to have. I know they both are so thankful for those wonderful memories.

Today is also a happy day for a couple of reasons. One, my Maw-Maw Ham is now in Heaven with my Uncle Dennis who passed from cancer 3 years ago (on the same day she had the aneurism) and a sweet little baby boy that she lost when he was a baby. The other reason is my cousin Hayden (one of Maw-Maws many grandchildren!) turns 19. I hope that he will look at this day with happiness and tears of joy when he thinks of our grandmother, and I believe he will. Happy Birthday Hayden.

To my family, please know how much I love you, and especially my sweet Grandmother!

Lynne

Two days in a row!

2010-01-05T15:31:00.002-06:00

Well, it is a miracle!...I have blogged two days in a row!!! lol lol

Today has been a lot of fun so far! Kelly and I met with our newest S.E.E. Pink member and we had a blast!! Of course, being my pushy self, I insisted we got hat shopping and not only did she buy four hats, she got two new ponchos (too cute for words!) and a new pair of pants! If you are in Clarksville, TN, and need hats please check out Products Unlimited (no, they don't pay me!) on Riverside Drive. They have a wonderful assortment, many will fit nicely on a bald head, and they are very inexpensive!

That's it for now. My pile of towels await my fabulous folding abilities!!

Love you all!

Lynne

Promises, promises!

2010-01-04T20:21:00.002-06:00

I have promised over and over that I would get better about updating my blog, and I have fallen short! Once again, I apologize.

It seems as though I don't know what to do with my blog now that I am cancer free. Before it was much easier, but I could update how my treatments were going and how I was feeling.

Now, I have to decide what needs to be said. Do I just blog about daily life now? Will anyone want to read it? I don't know, but am going to give it a shot!

I am excited about 2010. Personally, Woody and I are going to build a new house! We are both very excited. I am especially excited about my kitchen...going to have a burgandy stove! Yep, a burgandy stove!! Can't wait. We will be getting our current house ready for the market over the next few months and will probably list around summer. Wish us luck!

I also feel like I'm going to be a grandmother in about 9 weeks! Our niece, Kristen, is expecting a baby girl mid March. Since Woody and I have no children of our own, Riley will be very much like a grandbaby! I have already told Kristen that I stake my claim to at LEAST one week every summer (maybe other times during the year too) with Riley. She will come here and without her parents! I will get to spoil like crazy and send her home!!

S.E.E. Pink is going to grow by leaps and bounds this year too. Kelly and I are excited about it and will keep you posted on that too.

Well, I think I'll go now and pay a bit more attention to Boise State v TCU and especially my husband!

Have a great week. God Bless!

Love,

Lynne

Can cancer be a Blessing?...Yes, it can!!

2009-11-19T21:12:00.002-06:00

As crazy as it sounds breast cancer is a blessing. Kelly and I were brought together by breast cancer and together we had a vision. That vision is S.E.E. Pink. The vision of S.E.E. Pink is Serve/Empower/Educate. If tonight was any indication of the positive impact our organization is going to have, then we need to get ready for a wild and wonderful ride!!

The support that Kelly and I receive from family and friends continues. It is with their support that we know we can accomplish the mission God has for us. Woody, my husband, was there tonight taking notes and making pizza runs and if David, Kelly's husband, hadn't been stuck at an airport then I know he would have been there too! Destiny, my bff, was right just like she was from the beginning. I know that the three of them will be an invaluable resource for the loved ones of our members. Michelle doesn't know what she has gotten herself into, because I see her working with the kids of our members. She is wonderful with young people and we are blessed to have her want to be a part of S.E.E. Pink.

I can't write tonight without talking about a very special young lady that came with her mom tonight. I have a new bff and her name is Markie!! She is 14 and precious. I know that her mom feels so blessed to have her. Her personality just fills the room and you can't help but be drawn into her world! I see big things in her future.

I will close now. It has been an emotional night and I need to get geared up for tomorrow. I have my 3rd follow up appointment with my oncologist and then Kelly and I are going with a new S.E.E. Pink member to her oncologist appointment at Vanderbilt. By the way, thanks Destiny for taking care of Kelly's little people!

Have a blessed weekend.

Lynne

Checking in...

2009-11-19T07:36:00.002-06:00

Good morning!

It has been brought to my attention (Thanks Des!) that I need to pay more attention to my blog. So, once again, I will put my best foot forward and try to do just that.

First of all, I have to say that I was shocked when the new standards came out for detecting breast cancer! I thought the age would be lowered for mammos, but instead it was raised. From what I am hearing, there is some back pedaling going on and I'm glad! We must raise our voices and be heard all over. If one life is saved, then it is worth it. If I followed these guidelines, then by the time my cancer was detected I would have had a MUCH greater fight ahead of me versus the one I fought. I was a Stage 1A and only had a lumpectomy followed by 4 rounds of chemo and then radiation. If it had been detected later, then it would have likely spread well beyond the breast and lymph nodes.

Second, I would like to remind everyone that S.E.E. Pink will be meeting tonight at Exit Realty Clarksville at 6pm. We will brainstorm about future meetings. Kelly and I have some really good ideas, but we want to make sure that our members get what they need, so their input is invaluable. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed or is a survivor, please join us!

Have a blessed day.

Lynne

Making Strides...one year later

2009-10-25T08:40:00.002-05:00

Good morning,

Yesterday was the annual Making Strides for Breast Cancer walk in Nashville, TN. Woody and I walked all of it this year, but with a completely different team. It was the Clarksville Athletic Club group. There is another member who has been fighting BC this year and the club really ramped up their support! We had very cool tee shirts and very motivated walkers!

It was so different this year for me. Of course, I missed my friends from last year's walk. They walked for me, because I really couldn't walk it myself. I say I couldn't, but I might have been able to...we won't ever know! See, I was just coming off of my first chemo treatment and my white count was extremely low, so we just thought it best that I conserve my energy. Woody and I walked about half a mile and turned around and then we crossed the finish line with them!! This year, my sweet friend, Destiny, was not by my side and that was hard. She wasn't feeling well and couldn't come out. She was by my side from the get go, so it is bittersweet for me when she isn't there at momentous times. Love you girl!

I had better close now. I have to get ready to go work the nursery at church, go to 11:30 service and then come home to get ready for the Baptism ceremony...of which I will partake in! Yep, Lynne is getting Baptized today! I'm so excited!!

Have a blessed day everyone.

Love,

Lynne

What a difference a year makes...

2009-09-21T18:15:00.003-05:00

I started this post on September 22nd...This time last year we were joined in the manroom by my parents and Destiny in anticipation of my surgery the next morning. Joseph dropped by with an amazing chocolate cake and we all watched a bit of "Dancing with the Stars"! The next morning was the beginning of the biggest challenge I have ever faced. Since that fateful day I have survived surgery, chemo, a bald head, weight gain, radiation, new hair growth, and many emotions that are sometimes hard to put into words!

Now I will wrap it up! Today is October 1st and begins 31 days of breast cancer awareness. You won't be able to go anywhere without seeing something pink! I have grown to embrace the color and am thankful for a complection that doesn't clash with it! lol lol Seriously, the color pink is so significant to me now as a survivor. It's funny because I think everyone should know that I'm now wearing pink because of breast cancer, but how could they know if I don't tell them?!

The upcoming "firsts" are also going to bring a lot of emotions to the surface. On the 13th I will reminence about my first chemo and then comes the hair loss...

On a positive note, Kelly and I will kick off our new "care group", SEE Pink, on October 18th here in Clarksville. We are so excited about it and can't wait share our vision. We hope that our experiences and those of our loved ones will help encourage others to fight this disease with fire and a little humor! Stay tuned for pictures and a recap of the big event!

I will close for now. I promise, Destiny, that I will work hard to keep my blog updated from this point forward!!

Have a blessed day.

Love you all,

Lynne, Breast Cancer SURVIVOR!

2009-09-13T12:30:00.002-05:00

Today I come to you from the couch in the "manroom" where football is on the big screen! My sweet husband is by my side, and I couldn't be happier. There has been a lot going on lately, so I will take some time to update you.

First, I (we) decided that I would take a bit of a break (retirement, sort of!) from selling real estate. I just couldn't find it in my heart to be passionate about it and that just isn't a productive state of mind for success. I'm thankful to have a husband that supported and encouraged me to make the change. I know he likes it when I fix his breakfast, pack his lunch, and then have dinner cooking when he gets home! I confess that I enjoy it too!!

The other thing I have started to focus on is starting a new care (support) group for breast cancer patients/survivors here in Clarksville. I have partnered with fellow survivor, Kelly Blevins, to start SEE Pink! http://seepink2.blogspot.com
We are both so excited and are looking forward to our kick off Open House on October 18th. You can reach us via email at seepink2@gmail.com. If you or someone you know needs us, please contact us! The SEE in SEE Pink stands for Serve/Empower/Educate. We just know it is going to be a great thing! Please keep us in your prayers as we embark on this big adventure!

It is also coming up on one year since my diagnosis and surgery. I'm not sure why, but I've gotten very emotional. All throughout my treatment I maintained a very positive outlook and really didn't get too emotional about things. I suppose it was because there was a fight in front of me that needed more focus than my emotions! Now I'm able to reflect and I suppose that is where the emotions begin to surface. Part of me feels as though it was a lifetime ago that I had surgery and treatment while the other part feels as if it were yesterday! Of course, I now have hair and it is no longer obvious that I had breast cancer. The pink ribbon tattoo on my ankle is the only obvious sign that remains. I'm glad about that and thankful for hair, but I truly can't wait until I have a ponytail!!! Sorry Mother, Dad, and Inez, but I'm not going to keep my hair short!!!

I would like to say 'thank you' to everyone who stood by my side, prayed for me, laughed with me, and cried with me through this ordeal. Fighting cancer with an Army of loved ones behind you is a much easier fight than facing it alone! I am especially thankful for Woody. My parents are always saying that they couldn't have hand-picked a better husband for me, and I agree! I know that the good Lord blessed me when he brought Woody into my life! Thank you, Sweetheart...I LOVE YOU!!!

I wish you all a very happy, productive, and blessed week!

Lynne

AWESOME Ultrasound!

2009-08-26T15:50:00.002-05:00

I had the best ultrasound this morning! It was the first one on my affected breast since surgery and treatment. I don't think any of us in the room (me, Woody, Dr. Steely, Nurse Judy) expected what we saw...FEWER cysts than ever before! Dr. Steely said, "I'm taking pictures for reference" because there really wasn't much to mark as far as cysts go!

I am so thankful for this, and will be doing a post very soon discussing many things I am thankful for so stay tuned!

Have a blessed day, I sure did!

Lynne

Two Blogs...

2009-08-19T08:57:00.002-05:00

Good morning! I did an update on the SeePink2 blog this morning and felt guilty about not doing one on my original blog, so here it is!

Great story unfolding on the See Pink blog, so check it out.

I was supposed to be at my surgeon's office this morning for my ultrasound. I have not had one on my affected breast since surgery and treatment, so I was a bit frustrated when I learned that I would have to reschedule my appointment. You see, I didn't double check to make sure that my referral was current. So, I had to contact my primary care doc to ask them to contact Tri-care for the referral. I think my frustration level increased when I found out that I would have to wait until Friday for it to be requested, since the person at the office who takes care of those things only does so on Fridays.

Then I contacted the surgeon's office to reschedule, again, for next week. Thankfully, when I called I spoke to Judy, Dr. Steely's nurse. She calmed me down and scheduled me for next week. She is just wonderful and I've always been thankful for her...except when she took my drainage tubes out after surgery...boy did that hurt like the dickens!!! lol lol Seriously, I appreciate that she calmed me right down about it. Everything is going to be fine when I go, but I think I had just worked myself up to get it over with today.

Back to responsibility. It was all on me. I am always saying that it is our responsibility to make sure we take care of ourselves, especially when it comes to our health. So, part of that is making sure details such as referrals are handled and that appointments can be met. Putting that off on someone else is wrong. I will need to be better and make sure that I write down what needs to be done and when!

Have a great day everyone. I hope that it is filled with wonderful memories no matter what you have going on!!

Love you all,

Lynne

New Blog, New Mission!

2009-08-16T07:10:00.003-05:00

Good morning. I want to encourage you all to check my new blog...See Pink. It kicks off a new venture with my friend, and fellow breast cancer alum Kelly Blevins. The link is to the right under "My Blogs".

Have a great Sunday and God Bless.

Love you all,

Lynne

Mammogram....

2009-08-12T07:49:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I had my first mammogram since my diagnosis and everything came back good, just like it did last year.

I've got to make sure that I do a couple of things when it comes to mammograms:

1. Remember that Dr. Steely (my surgeon) said that I still needed them although it was not a mammogram that detected my cancer!

2. Remember that Dr. Steely (my surgeon) said that I still needed them although it was not a mammogram that detected my cancer!

Mammograms are crucial for women and should never be taken lightly. Per Dr. Steely, a mammogram might see something in my breasts that his ultrasound cannot. This is the case even with my dense breast tissue. So, for me, it becomes a piece of the pie that makes up my screening plan. I also found out yesterday that I will be required, for a while, to have a mammo on my left breast every six months. Joy, joy, joy!!! lol lol

I am scheduled for my ultrasound with Dr. Steely next Wednesday. This will be the first one on my left breast since my surgery and treatment. If I'm totally honest, then I guess I would have to say that I am a bit nervous about it. I don't know if the scar tissue is going to hinder the test, but I will find out next week!

Speaking of ultrasounds, I had one on my ovaries a couple of weeks ago! My new gyno wanted to have a baseline on them now that I have had breast cancer. I was kinda hoping she would say something like, "They look rough, let's just take them out and everything else out"! I don't need them, I'm not having children, and I don't need anymore hormones threatening my breasts so why not get rid of them??!!! You know I'm already hot flashing like crazy, so what's something else to add to the fun??!! Alas my ovaries are good to go and I'm keeping it all for now!!

Kelly Blevins and I are working out the details regarding our new support group, so stay tuned for more info.

Have a wonderful hump day!

Love you all,

Lynne

It's about time!

2009-08-09T13:14:00.002-05:00

Good afternoon. After church this morning and before my nursery duty, Destiny reiterated that I had not updated my blog in quite some time!! So, here it is.

I am very excited about moving forward with a new support group. Kelly Blevins is moved to do the same, so we are going to put our efforts together and do something grand! I am sure we will put together a blog just for the group and I will post a link to it on this page. Kelly is so much more disciplined than me, so it should stay updated without much delay! I won't put all of the writing responsibility on her, but as long as I know that she will be expecting me to write, I will get it done.

Last weekend I had the best time with Melanie at Hilton Head Island! I was her companion since her husband couldn't go. Her son, Wade, brought a friend and we all had a great time. I will post some pictures later. I did discover that too much sun and tamoxifen doesn't mix!! I broke out with a rash that soon went away after I stayed out of the sun for a few days. That is one side effect that I'm not really excited about!!!

This afternoon I have to go to the gym and get back on it with my Half Marathon training. I really haven't done anything this week and I can't let that become a habit. So, it is off to the treadmill this afternoon!

Take care everyone. Have a blessed week, happy running, and love you all!

Lynne

Divine Intervention...

2009-07-27T07:59:00.002-05:00

...that is exactly what happened this morning as I left for my run! I saw a couple walking in front of the house with "race for the cure" t-shirts on, so I commented about liking them and that I was a survivor. Her daughter, who has been through the ringer with breast cancer, and her daughters have moved here from Seattle to live with them. I gave her my card and told her to have her call me.

I have wanted to get a group together and this morning just motivated me more to get it done! I am going with Meli to Hilton Head Friday for a few days, so I will take that time to make a plan. Meli is a great planner, so I know it will be huge to have her input.

I do believe, more than ever, that God put me in this position for a reason. I have been told that I never meet a stranger and can talk to anyone about anything, so it is high time I put those talents to good use. It is time to walk the walk instead of just talking the talk.

Everyone have a wonderful week. If you are, or know someone who is, affected by breast cancer and live in the Clarksville, TN area, please contact me. lynnewoodson@yahoo.com I want to have a group together and ready to meet by September. We especially don't need to go into the dreary winter months without a positive network of awesome women (and men!) to turn to when needed.

Love you all and happy running!

Lynne

P.S. I saw a picture from the 4th of July run of myself and I swear it looks like I have a ponytail!! The is a woman behind me and you can't see anythying except her hair...of course, that must mean she is incredibly tiny in order for me to hide her!! lol lol

Night Sweats...What a HASSLE!

2009-07-22T05:59:00.002-05:00

I come to you this morning after another night of virtually no sleep! So, having said that, I cannot be held accountable for any typos in grammar or spelling!!! lol

Being thrown into "medically induced menopause" has had its advantages, but it has come with a price. The advantage is obvious to all women who dread their "monthly visitor", but the price I'm paying definitely isn't monetary. Actually, I'm saving a bit on that end of it if you know what I mean. I'm also not experiencing the really sore breasts that came along with my period, which is awesome! What is a pain, however, are the sweats that have no rhyme or reason. I may have a nights with no issues, some with very little, or a night like last night where I just couldn't get comfortable enough to enjoy my sleep! The tamoxifen only makes them worse, so I am just going to have to suck it up and deal with it.

That is easier said than done. I was supposed to meet Christina and Sarah Beth this morning for a quick run, but I just didn't have it in me. Instead, I got up, made coffee, and got on the computer. This morning would have been great for a run because the temp is nice and there is a breeze.

I will settle for this evening when I meet with the running coach for the first time. I'm sure, true to good ole southern weather, that it will be nice and muggy!! We are going to do a one mile run (I think) so that we can be evaluated and then she will put us on a schedule and give us a log book. I'm looking forward to it. I know that I need to step it up if I'm going to do this Half Marathon in November.

I'm excited about going to the beach with Melanie and Wade at the end of the month. For those of you who don't know it, Meli is a big runner! I told her yesterday that I was bringing my Ipod because I didn't expect her to literally run with me. Our idea of a long run on Saturday at the beach will be a bit different...she will probably do 8 miles or so and I will do about 4 or 5.

Well, it is time for another cup of coffee. I hope you all have a blessed day today!

Love you all, and get out and run!! (note to self!! lol lol)

Lynne

NO MO CANCER...good bloodwork, again!

2009-07-20T12:04:00.002-05:00

Today I had my second visit with the oncologist post chemo, and once again my numbers are still tracking on the positive. I had no doubts, but it is good to hear them say it. I will go again in November and then three more next year. After that I think I will get to go once a year maybe...not sure but will cross that bridge later.

I hope you all saw the article in the Leaf Chronicle. It was good and we have gotten lots of good feedback. Of course, now that it is all over the city and world wide web I cannot back out!!! I'm sure Cyleste would kick my behind so I wouldn't try it anyway!

Got lots to do this week, so I will scoot. Have a blessed week.

Love you all and happy running,

Lynne

Headline News...sort of!

2009-07-14T07:36:00.003-05:00

This was my attempt to be "on it" with my blog! I started it on Tuesday night and am finishing this morning...

...Yesterday Kelly Blevins and I met a reporter and photographer from The Leaf Chronicle at Beachaven Winery to do a spot on us. We are part of the first all woman team registered for Clarksville's first annual Half Marathon in November. Cyleste Coppage of R3 Running Store set things up and joined us along with several representatives from First Command. I believe a story will be done later on their sponsorship and team members who are also running.

So, go to http://www.theleafchronical.com on Sunday and check things out. We were asked how we decided to run and also we shared briefly our diagnosis. We have shared a more in depth story with Cyleste for her blog on the newspaper's site, so I am sure some of that will be used to put the story together. We were all suprised to hear that we would be in the Sunday addition and possibly on the front page no less!!

Kelly and I wore t-shirts with breast cancer slogans on them...the headline could be tricky!!! Our team name is "The Trotting Tatas"!! I have to thank Destiny for her brainstorming that got us such a catchy team name. They took several pictures, so it will be interesting to see which ones they use.

Our other team member, Kelly Sheets, couldn't be there, but there should be a follow up article highlighting her. Kelly was one of my chemo nurses. I can't imagine how hard her job is because I only had to deal with my cancer. Kelly deals with everyone's cancer that walks through their doors. She is awesome! I was so excited that she agreed to be on our team.

...Saturday

Woody and I went for a brisk walk this morning and I wore my new Sketcher "Shape Ups". I am loving them. My goal is to get to the point where I wear them pretty much all of the time. They are supposed to help with posture, firming the abs and buttocks and a laundry list of other things. I believe it!

I have to quickly tell about my trip on Thursday with Kelly B. It was her birthday and it was a chemo day. I, along with her husband and friend, David and Kelly, tried to make it as much fun as a birthday of chemo could be. We succeeded!! We took a cake, ate it and shared it. The girls also had a quickie pedicure. For some reason, we couldn't get David to let us paint his toenails pink!!! She did great and hasn't had a reaction for a couple of weeks now.

Better run. Lots to do today. Don't forget to check out the Leaf Chronicle tomorrow!

Love you all,

Lynne

Enough Already with the 5Ks!!

2009-07-05T16:28:00.002-05:00

That is what Woody says, well sort of! He says it is time to look forward to a 10K and to step outside of my comfort zone in running. So, that is what I plan to do. We are going to do the Chick-fil-a 10K in September, which will put me in line with my training for the Half Marathon in November.

We did the 4th of July 5K in Nashville and it was a lot of fun. I really felt a lot of pride in accomplishing it. There were a couple of nasty hills too!

This is a short and sweet post. Just want to get back in the habit of updating. Check out the blog on theleafchronicle.com that Cyleste Coppage (owner of R3 running store in Clarksville) is writing. She is hoping to get people motivated to sign up for the Half in November!

Love you all and happy running.

Lynne

Running...

2009-07-02T08:58:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone,

Long time, no post!! As you may or may not know, I have decided to become a runner! Yep, that's right, a runner! NO LAUGHING!!!!! I'm very surprised that I have been able to be consistent in my training. This morning I upped my speed around our block of a mile. It felt good and I know small accomplishments like these will keep me going. Woody and I are running another 5k Saturday morning and will pick up the pace beginning this month as we look forward to November 7th and my first 1/2 marathon.

My friend and owner of R3 running store, Cyleste, is doing a blog on the local newspaper's website and needs to have me write something about my decision to begin running to regain my health after cancer. I'm unsure what to say at the point, but have to get my thoughts together quickly!

I have decided to kick into gear my plans to begin another breast cancer support group. There is one here in town and I have visited them once. They seem like an awesome bunch of survivors! However, I feel this calling to begin another one and along with my friend, Kelly, will do just that. Kelly is embarking on the tailend of her chemo treatments. She goes weekly and I plan to go with her on the 16th, which is her birthday! We are going to have a little "chemo birthday party"!! Her spirit is amazing and so is her smile. I am so proud to be her friend.

One thing I plan to incorporate into the new support group is reocognizing the caregivers. They are as much in need of support as we, the ones with cancer, are and I hope to show them their support is needed and appreciated by us.

I will close now. I have to get busy!!!

Love you all and happy running,

Lynne

Let's Talk Running and Breast Cancer!

2009-06-03T06:39:00.002-05:00

This morning I will make my radio debut! Cyleste Coppage, the director of the first annual Clarksville Half Marathon and owner of R3 running store, invited me to join her to talk about breast cancer this morning on AM 1400. She has talked me into forming a team and running the 1/2 on November 7th. I'm hoping that I will still like her when I'm done running!! Just teasing.

I'm a little nervous about it, but I'm sure it will all be ok. My main objective is to encourage women to take charge of their health. Remember, 'when in charge, be in charge'!!! If you believe there is something going on with your body that isn't normal, make the doctors listen to you!! They work for you!!

We have to come up with a team name and logo for the 1/2, so if anyone has any ideas feel free to make them known. We used the name "Save the Boobies" for the Making Strides walk last October, so I want to come up with something as fun, but new.

Better run (no pun intended!) and have a second cup of coffee and get my act together. Have a beautiful day.

Love you all,

Lynne

13.1

2009-05-25T20:42:00.003-05:00

That is the distance of the half marathon I have committed to run on November 7th! I will soon beginning training with a certified coach and, hopefully, others who will join me on a team. I don't know all of the training details just yet, but I am sure I will begin training in June. That mixed with going to the gym with Destiny should get me on track to good health once and for all!

I welcome anyone who wants to join me on the 7th of November to plan on it! I will post information about the training and also how we can possibly raise money for a breast cancer charity. I've also got to come up with a clever team name! Please feel free to post any suggestions!!

Have a great week.

Love you all,

Lynne

Hey, I'm still around!

2009-05-11T07:09:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to drop in this morning since it has been so very long since my last post. Things are great with real estate and I'm having a great time with it!

We are so tired of the rainy days in Tennessee, and are hoping the sun prevails for more than a few days very soon!!

Have a blessed day.

Love you all,

Lynne

This Time I Mean It!!!!

2009-04-20T06:08:00.002-05:00

Okay, today I am definitely starting my new workout program! I know many of you are thinking you've heard that one before, but I really do mean it. I'm tired of feeling dumpy and out of shape.

I have been given a new lease on life and shame on me for not taking better care of myself. I have access to a great gym, beautiful neighborhood to walk in and a great support system. It is high time I step up and take full advantage!

I'm going to get ready now so that I can be there ready to go at 6:45. Have a productive week everyone!!

Love you all,

Lynne

Vacation Time...

2009-04-06T07:20:00.003-05:00

I come to you this morning from my Mother's couch in South Alabama. It has been awhile, once again, since my last post. I must get better at this, but am not sure I have it in me like my friend Courtney (corkyshell.blogspot.com)! Her dedication to her blog is inspirational!!

Woody and I have taken a vacation. The last time we really took time off was a trip to Ft. Bragg for a Memorial Fundraiser in honor of our friend Scott Dyer. This is a much overdue trip and we are enjoying ourselves very much.

We went to dinner Friday night at a dive called Butch Cassidy's. My Dad has touted their burgers and wings for sometime now, and he was spot on! Delicious, delicous, delicious!!! Saturday we drove down to Biloxi and Bay St. Louis. There is so much still to rebuild/repair from Hurricane Katrina. There is a lot resolve to do so and it shows in what they have accomplished since then. I will attach some pictures after we return home. Oh, we ate at the neatest beach bar & grill that afternoon called Shaggy's. It was great! We all enjoyed what we ordered, but my recommendation is the fried shrimp po boy my Dad got. Next time he knows to order it without the bread!!! There had to have been 3 dozen fresh yummie shrimp. He couldn't eat the bread of the sandwich if he wanted to enjoy the shrimp...they don't have a shrimp platter, so ordering without the bread of the sandwich is a round about way to get one. The waitresses really work hard too, so it was a good experience all the way around.

Last night we visited with our friends Brian and Elaine. They are native North Carolinians but now call South Alabama home. I believe it will remain that way from now on!! Oh, and we did convert them to Bama fans no matter what they may tell their friends from the "other side"...if you are from Alabama you know what that means! lol Tonight we are going back over to their house for some Carolina basketball. We haven't done that since our days in Fayetteville, NC, so we are all looking forward to it.

We are about to get ready for a day trip to Orange Beach/Gulf Shores. My friend, Melanie, and her son are there so we plan to have lunch with them. I'm not sure yet, but we may have to go down to the FloraBama and put our feet in the sand there. If any of you are Jimmy Buffett fans, then you know the FloraBama actually exists! It is quite the dive and we haven't been there since before we got married 18 years ago!!

Have a beautiful week.

Love you all,

Lynne

long time, no post

2009-03-17T06:33:00.003-05:00

It has been a while since I wrapped things up with radiation and said hello to you all...Hello! Things are going well. Since then I have had my first follow up appointment with my oncologist, Dr. Patel. He checked my blood and all seems to be tracking just fine post chemo. He didn't call me the day after my visit, so that means the liver is good to go!

I met a super nice lady from our church this week. Her name is Kelly and she will begin her chemo next week if all goes as planned. She is a beautiful young wife and mother of two who had to have a mastectomy. Please keep her in your prayers, as well as her husband and children.

I have noticed something quite odd since getting diagnosed...I now hear of more women than ever before who have been diagnosed. Not to make light of a very serious situation, but it is almost like getting a new car...you never noticed how many were on the road until you bought yours! I went to a support group meeting a couple of weeks ago and met several long and short term survivors. It was great, and made me really want to get another one started with the girls I have recently met. I know I have said before that I wanted to do this and I think now is the time to get moving on it.

There is something I have to finally admit to everyone...I had my big "moment" a couple of weeks ago! It was the Sunday night after my radiation was finished. A longtime friend of ours, Terry, and his wife, Jennette, were visiting for just a night, and Destiny and Larry were here for dinner too. Sometime later that night I started crying and couldn't stop! I suppose I kept things bottled up a bit too long and it just poured out. I remember laying there in bed with Woody on one side and Destiny on the other until I fell asleep. Thank God for both of them! He put them both in my life for many reasons and this was one of the big ones. I think I was quite drained and just didn't have it in me until now to write about it. I would recommend to anyone going through this to let it out every now and then, don't wait until the very end!! I do have to tell a funny story, of course...Destiny said that she looked over at Woody and told him, "See, there was plenty of room in this bed for me to have spent the night before surgery!" She had told him she was spending the night before my surgery in September and sleeping with us!!! I love you, Des!

I think my sweet husband is beginning to stir, so I will close now. Since I am his "coffee wench" it is only appropriate for me to have it ready when he gets up!!

Have a wonderful weekend.

Love you all,

Lynne

I'M DONE, SON!

2009-03-07T06:49:00.002-06:00

Yes, that's right, I'm done with radiation!! WHOOHOO! We are sitting here having coffee in a post radiation home and it is a lovely thing. I will miss my girls at the center, but am so happy to have this part behind me.

We had a great time. Yes, I said a great time at my last appointment. Destiny and I got there and walked in with the cake only to find out that the machine had gone down!! Can you believe that one? I couldn't, but we took it in stride and just hung out eating cake, drinking coffee, amd chatting with other patients and the staff. Before they got it fixed Woody called and was able to be there with us! I will upload some pictures later on. The day ended with a closing and then a showing. It was wonderful all of the way around.

I can't thank Woody enough for being such a supportive husband through all of this, because I know it's been hard for him. Destiny has been a rock for both Woody and me with her support. I couldn't have done chemo and radiation without them. I have to also thank all of my family and friends who have encouraged me through this journey. If I didn't say it or say it enough, I appreciate it.

I am taking the weekend off and will begin my Tamoxifen on Monday night. There is a chance it will make me feel sick to my stomach, so I don't want to deal with that during the day. I will post the side effects that I have as time goes on.

Have a beautiful weekend and don't forget to spring forward!

Love you all,

Lynne

BEAM OFF!

2009-03-06T06:25:00.002-06:00

Good morning! Today is the last day I will look over from my reclining position and see the words "BEAM ON" as the radiation is shooting into my breast to ensure the invader in my breast has been conquered!

I am surprising the girls at Vanderbuilt Gateway Treatment Center with a cake that my friend, Laurie, baked for me. I will post a pic of it later. It says "BEAM OFF". The staff there has been wonderful. Oddly enough, I will miss them! It is hard not to get attached when you are seeing these caregivers every day for weeks on end. They are a very compassionate group and manage to stay upbeat in spite of what they deal with everyday.

I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend. I am!!

Love you all,

Lynne

TWO, TWO, TWO!!!

2009-03-05T07:33:00.001-06:00

No matter how you slice it, there are only two days of radiation left!!! WOOHOO!!!

That is about all I have this morning. Have a great one.

Love you all,

Lynne

Three, III, Tres...

2009-03-04T07:12:00.002-06:00

Ok, I'm not very creative this morning and had to copy from yesterday!! It is getting closer and closer to the end.

I'm unsure about how I am supposed to be on Monday, though. I have had doctors appointments daily and/or weekly since late August and now that will change to every few months. Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining. It's just how do you make the change from cancer patient to survivor? All along I've thought I didn't need support groups or to pull much from other survivors because I'm "so strong". I'm beginning to think differently now that I am at the end of two major treatments.

I am embarking upon the last part of my treatment with the use of Tamoxifen. This is a pill that I will take for 3-5 years. I will continue to see my oncologist about every 4 months to monitor everything, and will also continue to see my surgeon for ultrasounds. I need the Tamoxifen to stop the production of hormones because they are my enemy as far as breast cancer goes. My radiation oncologist told me yesterday that it will likely speed up the menopause that was chemically induced by the chemo. This is good and bad. The bad part is that my hot flashes will likely turn into full on night sweats for about three months! The good part is that they may only last for about three months!! I can handle this as long as I keep reminding myself that my "monthly visitor" will no longer be a part of my life! If, however, that visitor returns for some crazy reason, then I will have to rethink things!!! Of course, I know I have no control over how my body will react to the Tamoxifen and will just have to roll with the punches.

Here is a link to WebMD to check out Tamoxifen if you like: http://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/tamoxifen (Mom, if you read this please remember they have to list all side effects...it doesn't mean they will happen to me!!! I love you!!)

It is time for another cup of coffee and some cereal for breakfast. I hope you all have a great day.

Love you all,

Lynne

4, FOUR, IV...

2009-03-03T05:43:00.003-06:00

...no matter how you say it, today is day four in the countdown to the end of radiation!!

Yesterday was great. Woody was promoted to CW03 (Chief Warrant Officer 3 for my non military friends!) and there was a small promotion ceremony for him. The Colonel took off his CW2 rank and I put on the new! It was quite an honor to do that for him. My husband doesn't care for a lot hoopla surrounding work things, but I think he did appreciate the moment we shared.

I am up early today doing this post because I have awakened twice sweating like crazy!! That is the worst part of chemically induced (or natural, I'm sure) menopause. It isn't bad every night, so I try to take the bad ones in stride. Of course, later today when I'm dog tired someone else might think its bad when I'm irritable!!

Have a wonderful day.

Love you all,

Lynne

Five

2009-03-02T07:29:00.002-06:00

Today is FIVE in the final countdown to the end of radiation!! Yea!! We will see if I can post each day this week and make my blog look good...5, 4, 3, etc. I have not shown nearly enough attention to it as I should have.

Yesterday was a great day. First, I was asked to participate in a special service at church. It was awesome. The series we have been doing is "Am I the only one?". At the end of the service, 17 others and I walked across the stage during a song and held up a cardboard testimony. Mine, as you may guess, had to do with breast cancer. It said on one side "Attacked by breast cancer" and on the other "Healed by the Grace of God". I was much more in awe of the others who walked across that stage. I don't know if I would have had the courage to admit to everyone some of the things they did. There were signs about childhood sexual abuse, marriages in distress, infertility, drug abuse, no sense of self, selfishness, etc. It was easy to make my walk because my problem is visible and I have been very outspoken about it from the beginning. The strength it took for the others to make their walk definitely came from their relationship with God. They will be a huge catalyst of good and hope for others. God Bless them.

The second thing that made yesterday so good happened after I got to the office for my floor duty. Immediately after I opened the doors for business, a family came in that needed to sell their home and purchase another! They are a very nice family and their son was super sweet. He wanted to be a part of the process and it was fun making sure he wasn't excluded. He went into detail about what he wanted and needed in his room of the new home! Destiny and I will make sure we keep those things in mind as we help them make the transition from one home to another. Later that day, we were also reconnected with someone we met while working with the school system. It will be fun working with her and helping to make her dreams of entrepreneurship come true.

When I got home Woody had already grilled porkchops for dinner and chicken for the week! He is awesome and I love him so much. What a blessed woman I am to have him as my husband and to have the family and friends that I have.

Thank you and I love you all!

Lynne

The Final Eight Countdown...

2009-02-25T06:30:00.002-06:00

Good morning.

I am so excited that today we begin my final eight radiation treatments!! They will zero in on my scar, and I think these may not take as long as the others. Today will be a bit longer than normal because they have to do a "dry run" before they actually do the treatment.

I can't believe it has been five months since this crazy roller coaster started. Once I finish with radiation the Tamoxifen regimine starts. That will bring a new list of possible side effects, but warding off future cancers is worth the risks. I will post later about the Tamoxifen, but be warned...there will be many posts because I must take it for 3-5 years!!

Better run. Must have coffee.

Love you all,

Lynne

11 to go!

2009-02-19T19:39:00.002-06:00

I come to you tonight a tired woman. Yes, I have to admit that the radiation did, in fact, make me tired and a bit achy! I hit my wall this week, but I do believe that it could have been much worse. All of my treatments could have been much worse, and I am truly thankful that they weren't. We should all remember that as bad as we may think we have it, there is someone else in a worse situation. They may not have the faith, family, and friends to help them along the way.

Last week was a difficult week. For me personally, I was in a great deal of pain and had to get a root canal. Once the root canal was performed my pain eased up and life got much better.

The worst part of the week occurred on Monday night. A former co-worker and friend, and her husband were involved in an accident. Rich Sims was killed and his wife, Judy, was hurt badly. Judy will be in the hospital for 12 weeks as she recovers. She isn't allowed to move her pelvis. She has what I call "rebar" coming out of her body which is attached to screws in her pelvis. Destiny and I spent Saturday with her while her children buried their father. She was not able to travel to Nashville for the burial. It was hard to be there knowing what she was going through and how much more she has to deal with. There was little we could really do except be there to be whatever she needed us to be. Judy is going to be fine. She has a great deal of faith, as did Rich. That will get her through her recovery and she will need it more once she returns home. I ask that everyone keep her in their prayers.

Life is a beautiful thing and it is my hope that everyone embraces it and makes the most of everyday. Enjoy your family and friends everyday. If you need to tell someone that you love them, do it! Don't wait.

Love you all,

Lynne

13 down and 19 to go!

2009-02-08T17:05:00.002-06:00

I'm getting close. I have had 13 radiation treatments and have only 19 to go! If everything goes as planned, then I will finish on March 5th. So far I have experienced some tenderness and redness, itching, and I'm tired at the end of the day. I am usually done by 10 in the morning and then I start my work day. One thing I do plan to keep in place is going to the gym every morning. It has really helped me to keep my energy up and I don't plan to stop progress!

I am happy to say "Welcome Home Larry"! Larry is Destiny's husband and he came home from Iraq last week after six months away. Because of the job he has, he and Destiny can't webcam with each other, so they literally did not see one another for 6 months! I am glad she was able to talk to him.

It was beautiful here today in Clarksville, TN! We are so ready for spring, sunshine, and warm weather!!! After some of the really cold weather we had this year, I was more convinced than ever that I really like living without tons of snow, ice and subzero temps!

Not much more to say this evening. I haven't been very good at blogging lately and I do resolve to get better at it. My friend Courtney rocks when it comes to blogging and I need to take notes!

Love you all,

Lynne

24 More To Go!

2009-01-31T20:11:00.002-06:00

After three weeks of radiation I am looking forward to nothing interrupting the rest of my schedule! Initially I was scheduled to be finished on March 3rd, but now it is the 5th. There was a problem with the big door that keeps the radiation from reaching those outside of the treatment room and then we had a day of ice that kept them from opening. Please pray for no mechanical failures and good weather!!

Radiation is no big deal as far the treatment process itself. So far I am freckling a bit and today I noticed I itched a bit, but otherwise no real visual side effects. I have found, however, that I am tired at the end of the day! I am going to the gym pretty much every morning and walking on the treadmill from 30 - 60 minutes. My energy level is really good all day, but when I slow down and stop then it is over! Of course, I can't sleep all night because of the night sweats!! I guess I really shouldn't call them hot flashes, because they last longer than a flash!!! lol lol

All in all, I am doing fine and really shouldn't complain...so I won't!

Love you all,

Lynne

Cancer is Making Me Selfish...

2009-01-20T08:16:00.003-06:00

This morning I am reminded that life isn't just about me and what I'm going through. As I sit here typing this, my husband, Woody, is at his dear friend's house watching the Army pack his belongings to take them to storage. Jason's mother is there as well and I know this is harder than anything I've been going through or will go through.

You see, Jason was killed in action last April in Iraq. He was on Woody's team and very much a little brother to him. We all loved Jason. He had an infectious smile and laugh that made him irresistible! His mother is watching his belongings get packed today and will close on his house this week as well. I know it is just a house, but it is more than that to her and to his father. It was a big part of their son's life, and although it will bring some amount of closer for them it is also hard extremely hard to do. Jason's best friend, Jeff, made sure the tree his parents bought for him for his front yard made its way to their home in Oklahoma. It was a gesture that they will cherish each time they look out into their yard and see it growing.

Woody is hurting too. You can't serve your country with someone and not have a bond that others can't even fathom...it can't even be compared to that of a husband and wife. This week also marked the 5th anniversary of the death of another close friend, Kelly, who was also killed while serving his country in Iraq. Woody and Kelly were privates together and had a mutual respect and brotherly love for one another. This spring marks the first anniversay of Jason's death and then in October we will mark the 3rd anniversary of the death another friend, Scott. Scott gave his life while serving in Afghanistan. Woody and Scott started their Special Forces careers together and were very close. All three men left children behind and many who loved them dearly.

So, it is with a heavy heart that I write this morning. I'm reminded that although I might grow tired of the doctor's, scars and other marks on my body, I still have life. I must learn to put all of my disease aside and be supportive of those that I love, especially my husband. My fight is bringing more time on earth with my loved ones, and I must learn to remember that and turn the focus away from myself and toward those who need me more.

Woody, I love you so much.

Love you all,

Lynne

Radiation, Week Two

2009-01-18T19:50:00.002-06:00

Monday begins a full week of radiation. I know that means things are going to heat up, but it also means I will be getting closer to being done with this phase of my treatment. The ladies there are super nice and try to make things as pleasant and quick as possible. I know that I couldn't do it if the atmosphere was anything less. I am a firm believer that having a postive attitude, smiling, and laughing makes it much easier to deal with this whole cancer thing.

On another note, my hair is starting to grow!! Right now we aren't sure exactly what color it is going to be. It sometimes looks very blonde and then we see some dark trying to come through. I just can't wait for it to come in enough for me to call my older brother to tell him what color my hair actually is minus the trips to the salon for a little help, of course! Believe it or not, I really can feel it blowing in the wind sometimes!! lol

I am working on a plan in my mind for a support group. I want to include current patients, but I hope to have at least one multi-year survivor as well. I think it will be important for each person to see there is hope and light at the end of the tunnel. Wish me luck!

I would like for you all to keep a new friend of mine in your prayers. Her name is Tracy Billingsly and she just started her chemo last week. Tracy has stage 3A breast cancer. She is a young wife and mother, who is just precious! I know she is a fighter and that she, too, will kick cancer's behind! Tell everyone you know to pray for her and I will keep you posted on her progress. I am hopeful that she will also start a blog. If she does, then I will post a link to it on mine.

Oh, I got the most awesome red boots for my birthday from my sweet husband! I plan to wear them tomorrow. Maybe I will snap a picture to post...just teasing, but they really are awesome!

I know that this new year is going to be full of wonderful times with family and friends. Woody and I plan to get back out there and hit some golf balls. I have to drop about 25 lbs and build up some stamina or I won't be out there as much I want to be!

You all take great care and have a fabulous week!

Love you all,

Lynne

Radiation, Week One

2009-01-16T22:04:00.003-06:00

Tonight I come to you after my first three radiation treatments. Things have gone well, and I am hanging in there for now. Initially, my treatments were to end on March 3rd, but today there was a malfunction with the big door that keeps everyone else away from the radiation room. This cancelled my 11 a.m. treatment.

The worst thing so far is seeing all of these ink marks on my breast and chest! Trust me, it isn't attractive. This is just part of the process, so I will just have to deal with it.

I am anxious to get these next few weeks over. After radiation is over I will begin taking Tamoxifen to block my body's production of hormones. I will write more on that later.

I am thinking of starting a support group here in Clarksville for patients and survivors of breast cancer. It is just in my mind, so I will keep you posted as plans progress into reality.

Have a wonderful weekend, and I hope that some of you are in warmer climates!! It is below 20 here in Clarksville, TN!!

Love you all,

Lynne

Radiation Regimen Begins...

2009-01-07T18:04:00.006-06:00

Last Wednesday I had my CT scan and got "marked" for radiation. I was very nervous because I am claustrophobic and wasn't sure how deep into the machine I would have to go! Thankfully, not that far so I managed to make it through without too much trauma.

I must admit that the reason I haven't updated my blog since then is because I did experience a "bad day", anxiety, whatever you want to call it. I'm not sure why I had those feelings. I think maybe it just hit me that I am about to be a "cancer patient" again. You may think that sounds odd, but I have had a little time since finishing chemo and kinda got used to not working around doctor's appointments. Yes, it was only a couple of weeks, but still it felt normal for a bit. Now, I'm back at starting on Tuesday...back at being a cancer patient.

Being a cancer patient has had its pros and cons! You may be thinking what are the pros. Well, I believe that I am ultimately supposed to use my experience to bring awareness to early detection. It also makes you think about life and what is really important. For me that is family and friends. Yes, I want to be successful in my business, but that is empty without those you love beside you. On the lighter side, I have gotten to eat a lot of chocolate without too much remorse!!

The cons are a bit more obvious. Although I really didn't get sick or feel too bad from the chemo, I do have the obvious side effect that screams "I have cancer"...no hair! I must admit that it really doesn't bother that much. The bright side is, according to my big brother, we all get to find out what color my hair really is!! Of course, if I don't like that color then I have a big decision to make...blonde or red!!! The cons coming up with radiation appear to be skin discomfort as well as potential tiredness/fatigue. It bothers me that I might have to spend a few weeks not living life the way I want to, but we will have to see. I did react well to chemo, so maybe radiation will be as good to me.

The worse con with being a cancer patient is having people treat you that way. It gets frustrating sometimes when well meaning people ask those closest to me how I am doing rather than calling or emailing me themselves. If I don't feel like talking I can let it roll to voicemail, call back, or email. The other thing it does is make those getting asked the questions feel as though they don't matter. By only asking how I am doing makes them feel as though they don't exist and that really hurts me for them. When you have family and friends sacrifice so much to be your rock and to treat you as normal as possible, it seems their struggle is forgotten. Trust me, they are struggling as much or more than me! So, remember to ask caregivers how they are and if you can do something for them...they need a break too!

Let's all look forward to a wonderful 2009! I plan to work really hard in my Real Estate career and enjoy my husband, family and friends more than ever. I also plan to work to bring awarness to early detection as well as raise money through the Making Strides for Breast Cancer walk in October. Last year we got a very late start, so this year I really plan to kick things up a notch! If you are an Exit agent in the Nashville/Clarksville area, then get prepared to walk 5 miles...I will be in touch!

Have a great rest of the weekend.

Love you all,

Lynne

Better Health in 2009

2009-01-04T19:46:00.002-06:00

Tonight I come to you after having my "last hoorah" dinner and dessert!! We had chinese and cheesecake. It was goooood! Tomorrow we start a much better eating plan as well as a better exercise plan.

I know that everyone is all about new year's resolutions and rarely do they ever withstand the test of time. I am determined that this year I will stand the test of time because I know how important it is for me to live a much healthier lifestyle. I can't kick cancer's behind and then continue to neglect my health. It is critical that I change my habits from bad to good and stick with it. '09 is going to be my year to accomplish this goal. Set your goals for '09, tell someone what they are, and work hard to meet them.

So, if you are aware at any time that I am slacking, please feel free to remind me of this post! I will put out this disclaimer...I don't know how radiation is going to affect me. If I can only do treadmill time and have to back off of weights for a brief time, then you can't bust my chops too much!!

I know that it is going to be a great year!

Love you all,

Lynne

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-01-01T12:04:00.002-06:00

Today I come to you from the manroom where I sit watching football with Woody and can smell the greens a cookin! Love the tradition of blackeyed peas and greens on New Year's Day. I know it doesn't really work and provide me with good luck and money, but they sure do taste good! That cornbread will be good too!!

I am excited about this new year. As I talked with Destiny this morning, I was reminded that I needed to put my "bucket list 09" down on paper so that I can check them off as the year progresses. Woody and I put some down on paper yesterday, but I want to put some up more prominently than others and will do that today. If you can't see a goal, you can't reach it!

I hope everyone has a great rest of the weekend and that your team(s) win big! Of course we are first and foremost pulling for all SEC teams, especially BAMA! Then comes Clemson (beat Nebraska for Dayna!) and Penn State needs to crush USC!

Love you all,

Lynne

Out With Chemo and In With Radiation!

2008-12-30T06:50:00.002-06:00

I had my last visit for quite a while with my oncologist yesterday. My blood work was good to go and my prescription for Tamoxifen is waiting to be picked and started after radiation is over.

There really isn't that much to report right now. I have my first appointment with my radiation oncologist on the 7th of January where they will decide the area that will receive the radiation and mark it. I will likely begin my full on treatment on the 12th. There will be a total of 36 treatments and I should end them around the first part of March. I will, of course, keep you posted!

I have added a link to my site that everyone should check out. It is called areyoudense.org and it tells the story of women with dense breasts who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Some early, so quite late. Check it out!!!

Have a great day and Happy New Year!

Love you all,

Lynne

It's All Fine in 2009!

2008-12-26T08:18:00.004-06:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! Ours was great. We were able to see family and friends, but spent a quiet Christmas Eve and Day together in Clarksville. Last year we celebrated Christmas Day via the webcam, so we were both so happy to be together.

This morning I am sitting in the manroom watching the news in my new comfy pjs my sweet husband got me for Christmas! My plan is to avoid the mall today and stay put getting ready for the new year. I want to enjoy my Christmas tree for a few more days before putting everything back up in the attic.

We are looking forward to 2009. I begin the new year with the third step in my fight against breast cancer, radiation. I must admit that I am a bit more apprehensive of this step than I was chemotherapy. I know there will be more physical discomfort because the radiation will be intense on my left breast. From what I have researched and been told, my skin will become "sun burned" so to speak, which is going to be very uncomfortable. I will need to shop a bit this weekend to find some comfortable tops to wear that will "bind" me, but not be too uncomfortable. I am told wearing tradional bras is not going to be comfortable, so I must find alternatives. Thankfully, this will only be temporary and by the time spring gets ready to roll around, I should be healed up and will only need to protect the area from the sun. So, I guess that means no trips to topless beaches this year!!!! LOL LOL LOL LOL

Another big deal for 2009 in our household is the dreaded "budget"!! Now that husband is going to be home for a couple of years, we are going to focus our efforts on getting some changes made to the house and backyard. That means no "retail therapy" for Lynne!!! That shouldn't be a problem for me since Woody will be home. My "retail therapy" seems to increase when he is deployed! Of course, I will have to budget big for the spring since we are also going to incorporate a new health regime in '09...that means NONE of my clothes will fit and I will HAVE to replace them with much smaller sizes!!! (Hey, Meli...I will try to get to a 6 so that you can clean our your closet!!!)

I also plan to get very serious about my Real Estate business. 2008 had many ups and downs that kept me sidetracked from my business. I don't want that to happen this year. The first quarter will be a challange because of the radiation regime, but I know that I can lay my foundation during that time and reap the benefits the rest of the year. Real Estate has given me so much flexibility and I enjoy it very much. Now it is time for me to give back, so to speak, by actually working my business as a full time career and not just when I can fit it into my schedule. Of course, my diagnosis made things difficult, but it is time for that excuse to end and to get back to work! So, don't forget to send your referrals my way and remember that I can help you find an agent pretty much wherever you live!!

That should be enough for one morning, huh?! It is time to get focused on my house. Woody and I are going to go through our clothes and get rid of what we don't/won't/can't wear. There is someone out there who could benefit from what we don't use. Nothing wrong with spring cleaning in the winter!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Love you all,

Lynne

IT'S FREEZING!!!!!

2008-12-22T08:08:00.002-06:00

I come to you this morning from my mother-in-law's house in Pelham, Alabama, where it "feels" like 21 degrees!! YIKES! I am wearing an Alabama hoodie with the hood up to warm my bald head. I never knew hair was more than just an accessory until I didn't have any!

This weekend has been wonderful. Although Woody and I have both been sick with sinus infections, we have managed to make a short and sweet tour through Alabama to see most everyone. We started at the "Country Cottage" where we saw my side of the family and ended in Pelham at Woody's mothers. I have to give a big shout out to our nephew Taylor because we didnt' get to see him this trip. He has been sick with strep throat. Taylor, I hope you are better soon so you can fully enjoy your Christmas vacation!

I must go now. I have a bit of work to do and then after breakfast I need to clean the kitchen since my sweet Mother-in-Law is fixing breakfast!

Love you all,

Lynne

Downhill from here!

2008-12-18T18:53:00.002-06:00

Well, I have to say it is downhill from here as far as chemo goes. All of the side effects from it and the Neulasta shot should be winding down!

Woody and I have both been sick with sinus/cold stuff, though, for the last couple of days. We have both cleared up a bit tonight and feel like we can meet the day tomorrow with some sort of energy!

Well, this is a short and sweet update. Hope you all have a great weekend!

Love you all,

Lynne

Dense Breasted Women Read This!!!

2008-12-15T20:45:00.002-06:00

I found this article at caring4cancer.com and thought it was perfect for my blog. This study is designed for me and women like me with dense breast. If you have dense breast or think you may have, then you need to read this article! I am planning to begin my Tamoxifen treatment after radiation is done.

Love you all!

Lynne

Breast changes tell whether treatment works: study
December 15, 2008
By Maggie Fox

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - It may be possible to predict which breast cancer patients will be helped by tamoxifen based on changes in so-called breast density, researchers reported on Saturday.

Women with dense breasts -- a term meaning they have more non-fatty tissue -- are known to have a higher risk of breast cancer and the study suggests that lowering density using tamoxifen also lowers the chances tumors will come back.

Women whose breasts became noticeably less dense after a year or so of taking tamoxifen had a 63 percent reduced risk of breast cancer, the team of British researchers told a breast cancer meeting in San Antonio, Texas.

"It is important to find a way to predict who will respond to tamoxifen, and changes in breast density may constitute an early indicator of benefit," said Jack Cuzick of the Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine in London.

He said about 10 percent of women have dense breasts. Such breasts are harder to read on mammograms but there is evidence the tissue in their breasts may be more cancer-prone.

"Women with dense breasts are typically at four to five times the risk of developing breast cancer than women without dense breasts," Cuzick told reporters in a telephone briefing. Cuzick's team had conducted one of many studies that showed high-risk women who took tamoxifen were at least 40 percent less likely to either develop breast cancer, or to have it come back.

They went back and looked at all the mammograms of the more than 1,000 women who took part in the study.

If a woman's breast density did not change during the treatment, she was much more likely to develop cancer despite taking tamoxifen, Cuzick told the meeting.

TWO-THIRDS REDUCTION

"Women who lost 10 percent or more in breast density -- 40 percent of the women getting tamoxifen -- had a 63 percent, almost a two-thirds, reduction in all breast cancer," he told the briefing.

Cuzick stressed the study only looked at tamoxifen and not at other treatments, such as the newer drugs known as aromatase inhibitors. But he said it validated the idea of using breast density as a way of telling whether a treatment is working, whether tamoxifen or something else.

"If a woman doesn't show breast density dropping within a year or so, you might want to consider other therapy," Cuzick said.

In another report, a team at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota said they found some clues as to why dense breast tissue is more likely to develop tumors.

Dense breast tissue contains more cells believed to give rise to breast cancer, Dr. Karthik Ghosh told the meeting.

Dr. Celine Vachon and colleagues found that dense breast tissue has more aromatase enzyme than non-dense tissue. This is significant because aromatase helps convert hormones into estrogen, which can fuel breast cancer development.

"If aromatase is differentially expressed in dense and non-dense breast tissue, this could provide one mechanism by which density may increase breast cancer risk," Vachon said in a statement.

Copyright © 2008 Reuters Limited.

CHEMO IS OVER!!!!

2008-12-15T16:13:00.003-06:00

Just a quick note to let you all know that I have completed my chemo regimen! Woody and Destiny shared in the experience with me. We stormed into the chemo party room and created quite the stir! There were several people there that were having their first treatment, so I think creating the relaxed atmosphere helped them to calm a bit.

I have to say that it is going to be strange not going to the their office after my follow up visits. I did ask if I could come around every now and then with goodies and to chat with patients. They said they would welcome the visit. So, I will still visit the chemo party room in '09!!

I will let you all know how things go with this round!

Love you all,

Lynne

Chemo #4

2008-12-14T10:00:00.007-06:00

Monday, December 15, 2008, is a special day. Why, you might ask. Because it is my last chemo treatment! WOOHOO!! I am very excited to be getting this portion of my treatment over and done with. I have been very blessed during these last couple of months. I have not had any nausea associated with the treatment and have had little side effects from the Neulasta shot designed to bring my white cell count up. The second shot didn't seem to make me as achy and tired as the first one, so I am hopeful that I will feel even less this last time. Keep me in your prayers!!

I will begin my radiation about mid-January. I admit that I am a bit nervous about this portion of my treatment. I know that it will be tiring from the sheer quantity of treatments and monotony of going everyday. The pain is likely to be where the radiation hits every time and shouldn't be anywhere else. Of course, I don't know everything (surprise, huh?!), so we just have to wait and see what happens. My plan is to take on radiation like I took on chemo and come out of it better than expected! Of course, it will take the same positive attitude from me, and prayers from all of my friends, family and those I don't even know, to make it through this challenge.

I will update again as the week goes on and we face down chemo #4! If you hear laughter in the airwaves tomorrow, it will likely be coming from the "chemo party room" at Dr. Patel's office in Clarksville, TN!!!!

Have a wonderful week.

Love you all,

Lynne

White Count Still Great!

2008-12-08T18:06:00.002-06:00

Today I had an appointment to check my bloodwork (white cell count) and I am still blessed! My count was just under what it was after the first shot, which means I can feel comfortable with my ability to fight infection and germs!

I have scheduled my last chemo for the 15th! We also scheduled an appointment to begin the radiation process in January. If all goes as planned, then I should be done the first part of March.

The best thing that happened today is that my Mom had a good visit at her doctor. Last Friday she had to have a cyst removed from her back. At first thought the doctor expected it to be about the size of a marble, but it turned out to be the size of a baseball!! He said it was pretty much a fatty cyst and nothing to worry about! Thank the Lord!! She goes back a week from today to have her stiches removed. Remember, Mom, DO NOT overdo it!!!! I love you and my Dad, too, for taking such good care of you!

It is getting close to Christmas, so I hope you all are getting excited! I am because Woody is home with me this year!!

Have a great week.

Love you all,

Lynne

Thank You Clarksville Mom's Club!

2008-12-05T16:52:00.007-06:00

My presentation to the Clarksville Mom's Club went very well! Everyone was so nice and I saw a familiar face too...Shout out to Ashley G! I would especially like to thank my friend, Laurie Moudy, for asking me to speak.

It surprised me that I got a little emtional at the beginning. I looked out at this room of women and it occurred to me that I was standing there because I have breast cancer. I know that sounds odd since we are all very aware that I have (or I like to say "had") breast cancer! I guess that talking about it to family and friends on a more intimate level brings about different emotions than sharing it with people you don't know in the form of a crowd. Although I believe that I shared some very important information, it also occurred to me that I am by no means an "expert" simply because I received a diagnosis. I am realistic and know that I won't ever have all of the answers, but today made me realize that I need to know more.

As I have said, I do believe that there is a bigger picture to this cancer thing. The purpose, I believe, is to share my story and bring awareness to early detection. In particular, how I feel that an ultrasound can be a very useful tool to an early diagnosis. Remember ladies, it is your body and the doctor works for you!!!

I would like to thank the women I met Friday for inspiring me. I know that I can become more effective with my message if I gain more knowledge about breast cancer, treatment options, side effects, etc. I need to look beyond what is happening to me in order to help others.

Have a wonderful weekend and ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!!!

Love you all,

Lynne

Breast Cancer Presentation

2008-12-04T19:13:00.002-06:00

Tomorrow is the day! It is my very first presentation on breast cancer. I will be speaking to moms with the Clarksville Mom's Club. Basically, I will tell my story and provide them with a folder of information. Since 1 out of every 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, some of them or someone they know will need the information. I do have a game that I plan to let them play for door prizes...breast cancer bingo! I will let you all know how it goes!

Today I got a bit tired, so I plan to rest up tonight and be ready for tomorrow!

Love you all,

Lynne

Itchy Thursday!

2008-12-04T07:44:00.003-06:00

This post is going to be short and sweet...no, itchy!!!

A few times since starting chemo and the Neulasta shot I have been overcome with itching all over my body. The worst spots are on my head and back, so I was off to Walgreens this morning for relief!! It is beginning to work already, but I sure can't wait for the medicine to work its magic and the itching goes away!!!

Monday is my "nader" visit, which is where they test my blood to see how all of my counts are doing. I am confident that it will be as good as the last time.

Have a great day!

Love you all,

Lynne

We Say Merry Christmas!

2008-11-28T07:16:00.006-06:00

I titled this blog "We Say Merry Christmas" because we do! Anytime someone says "Happy Holidays" I always answer with "Merry Christmas". I'm sure there are many employers who do not allow their associates to say antyhing that might "offend" someone, so, those associates often have no choice in the matter and I can respect that. We have bumper stickers that we got from Bill O'Reilly when I ordered Woody a "no pin-heads" door mat that are ready to get taped in the window (we don't apply actual bumper stickers to our cars)! As you have probably guessed, they say "We Say Merry Christmas"!!

I love the Christmas season! Family and friends are everything and this time of the year really makes one reflect about what is important. Of course, this Christmas season is especially important to us. I'm so blessed to have my husband at home while I go through the bump in the road. Today we strung the lights on our Christmas tree and put all of the ornaments on it. It is quite pretty and festive!

On the cancer front: I have been a bit tired this week and have actually taken naps! My Neulasta shot made me achy and it lasted through last night. Again, it wasn't excrutiating, but it was constant enough to make me aware of it! I have continued to be blessed by not really being sick from the chemo. I have experienced the "chemo brain" quite a lot lately. It is so hard to remember things from one minute to the next. I have also been experiencing "hot flashes"!! Those are not fun, trust me! But, I will take them over throwing up any day of the week!!

We got a wonderful Christmas present today...Alabama beat Auburn!!! ROLL TIDE ROLL!! We end the regular season undefeated and meet Flroida in the SEC championship game next Saturday. Can we all say "BEAT FLORIDA"?!

Take care and I love you all!

Lynne

Three Down and One to Go!!!

2008-11-25T08:35:00.004-06:00

Well, yesterday I had my 3rd chemo, did a final walk-through for a closing this evening, and showed a house! Today, I took it a bit slower...phone calls from home, Neulasta shot, and a closing at 5!!!!

As before, I have been responding well with chemo. My face was quite red this morning and I woke with a headache that 2 extra strength tylenol and a big cup of coffee seems to be knocking out! I am praying that I continue with this type of response this week and after my last treatment on December 15th. I am sure it will, because I have been on more prayer list than you can imagine. If you think prayer doesn't work, just ask me! Thank you to all of prayer angels!

I hope you all have plans for a great Thanksgiving with family and friends. Woody and I are going to Destiny's for some good eating! She is making the turkey and a few sides (apple pie!!) and we are bringing dressing, sweet potato casserole, and homemade pumpkin roll. She said if I am feeling bad from the Neulasta shot, then I can just march myself right over in my pjs!!! Now that is a true friend, and one that just might see me in my pjs!!!

I am getting excited about my presentation on the 5th to the Clarksville Mom's Club on breast cancer. I will talk briefly about my diagnosis, surgery and treatment as well as show my mammogram film and ultrasound results. The big difference will be the mammogram said "all clear" and the ultrasound said "you have breast cancer". I have gotten a box of booklets from one company that has a lot of good information in them. I am going to put together additional info for the packets that I hope someone will find helpful.

I have found a neat little game for them to play for door prizes...it is "breast cancer bingo"!! It is cool because on the back of each card will be a fact that I will read about nutrition, exercise, etc.

Well, I am going to close now. I am getting a little tired. My mouth and lips are dry from the chemo and my body is beginning to ache a bit from the shot. That is all to be expected, so no worries! I have been extremely blessed through this whole thing and expect to have the same type of results from the radiation after the first of the year.

Happy Thanksgiving and I love you all!

Lynne

Back to Realty!

2008-11-24T06:11:00.002-06:00

Good morning!

Well, Meli leaves this morning and we've had a great weekend! Yesterday after church we picked up a few things at Walmart and came home to bake. I made my FIRST ever pumpkin rolls and they both came out beautifully!! Look out world...Lynne is probably getting on a pumpkin roll!! (no pun intended, of course!)

Seriously, it was wonderful having Meli here. We enjoyed some much overdue time together. There's nothing like cancer to help one remember what, and especially who, is important in life! If there is anyone in my life that I have forgotten to say "I love you and appreciate you" to, please know that I do love and appreciate you!

Today is chemo #3. WOO HOO!!! I will let you know how it goes later in the week.

Have a wonderful week and a beautiful Thanksgiving!!

Love you all,

Lynne

Best Friends are Awesome!!

2008-11-20T07:09:00.003-06:00

I am so excited! My friend, Meli, of over 20 years will arrive in Nashville tomorrow morning!! We will get to enjoy some much overdue time together. We used to have two weekends each year where we went to the beach and to Atlanta for Christmas shopping. Life, of course, took over and those weekends seemed to end. Since moving to Clarksville, we have started them back up and have enjoyed shopping at Opry Mills and hanging out in Clarksville each November.

This weekend, thanks to the Neulasta shot, I get to shop with her and not wear a mask!! We will only hit the mall on Friday for a few hours and then head to Clarksville for the rest of the weekend. She is going to teach me to make her famous pumpkin roll and I can't wait!! It is yummy and I'm sure there are no calories at all so I can make many for the holidays!!!!!

I have to thank Destiny, again, for helping me break through my Brick Wall on Monday! Her ability to move right into "we can get through anything" mode was right on time!! By Tuesday morning I was back to myself. Yesterday she and I were back at Kohl's. This was her shopping trip, but she moved right over the hat section again and helped me find a new fun hat that doesn't feel like it is going to fall down over my eyes!! She also came across a headband (we were laughing because I was trying on actual headbands...trust me, it was funny to see!!) that I can actually use as a head scarf. It doesn't hang down in the back like the "cancer scarves" I have found online. I just don't care for those because they scream "I'm sick" and I don't like to feel that way everyday. Des, you are the best!!!

A big shout out to Laurie and the "little people"!! It was fun hanging out for a bit yesterday. I just can't get over how much Sidney and Noah are growing and changing. Sidney is going to be just like her Mom and I'm so glad!!!! Noah is just fun to be around because he just seems to have the "don't worry, be happy" attitude!! Bet he will make it through life a bit easier because of it. Love you, girl.

I had better go now. I must get ready for work. Have a wonderful weekend.

Love you all,

Lynne

Brick Walls

2008-11-17T18:01:00.003-06:00

Well it finally happened. I hit my brick wall today! Actually, it was last night and it just carried over to this morning. I suppose even those of us with the most optimistic outlooks can have bad days. Thankfully, I sit here tonight feeling much better. It is amazing what a few tears can do for you.

As much as I really don't mind that my hair is gone and it appears that white is moving in, I just really didn't want to bald today! After Destiny cut some pretty cute bangs on my wig this morning, I felt like I looked like my old self again. Of course, at the end of the day the wig had to come off! They really aren't very comfortable and I am enjoying the freedom of being bald sitting on my couch!

I am going to close now. Things are heating up in Real Estate today, so I am hopeful that I will be busy with offers over the next few days! Send good vibes my way!

Love you all,

Lynne

WHITE COUNT RISES!!!!!!!!!

2008-11-14T17:11:00.002-06:00

GREAT NEWS...THE NEULASTA SHOT WORKED!!!!!!!!! That's right, my white count went from "plummetting" to "skyrocketing"! Dr. Patel was very happy to see my numbers increase so much. He said that I could do my floor duty on Monday without worrying too much and could also shop for a bit with Melanie when she comes without wearing a mask! Yippeee!!!

I gathered some information today from Dr. Patel (oncologist) and Dr. Steely (surgeon) to put together a presentation about breast cancer and my story. Laurie has asked me to speak to her Mom's Club in December or January and I am very excited about it. I am hopeful that I can put together a really good presentation and be able to share it with others as well. Wish me luck!

Well, I am going to close now. Woody has gone to get Chinese food for dinner. Destiny and I had to travel a bit this afternoon to check on a listing, so I am ready for a relaxing night!

Love you all,

Lynne

Blood work Friday

2008-11-13T19:44:00.002-06:00

Hi. I come to you tonight with high hopes that my blood work will show great results from my Neulasta shot! The first time, as you may remember, my white count "plummeted" and that is why I had to do the shot after my second chemo. The blood work tomorrow will show whether it worked or not. I am optimistic that it did its job. If it didn't, then I will just hibernate to a small degree after my next chemo! No need to feel achy and sore if it doesn't work, righ?!

Oh, just a note from the bald side...I seem to be growing a little bit of hair as I am losing it!! Crazy, huh? I am excited to report that it appears my new hair is very, very blonde!!! Yes, I said blonde because I don't believe it is white unless it is white in the sense that I will once again be a "toe head"!!! For those of you who may not get that, it means I could be harkening back to my childhood and that glorious white-blonde hair that tends to leave most of us as we move toward puberty!!

I will keep you apprised on the status of my hair, since I know you all are sitting on the edge of your seat!!! lol lol lol

Have a great weekend and I will report my blood work results tomorrow.

Love you all,

Lynne

VETERAN'S DAY: Some gave all

2008-11-11T17:49:00.003-06:00

Today was a day that many in our nation stopped to recognize the Veterans past and present who have served honorably. There are so many that I would like to thank, especially Woody, for doing what they do. I know that I am forgetting many, but let me say a special thanks to Daddy Bud, Big Phil, Jeff P., Trey, James, J.C., Biscuit, Dustin, Dave, Melina, Joel, Tara, Krissie, Larry M., Larry E., Garth, Slim, Jeff H., Keith, ODA 584/5824, the old ODA 344 and ODA 346, Chris, Tony, and everyone else I have had the pleasure to know.

I am going to highlight three special friends who gave their all for our country. MSG Kelly Hornbeck, SSG Jason Brown, and CW2 Scott Dyer. For all of you who know us, you know these three men were very special to us, and most especially to Woody. They are always in our hearts. Kelly and Woody started out their Army careers together at Ft. Myer in 1987. I am sure D.C. was never the same! Scott and Woody started their Special Forces careers together at Ft. Bragg in 1993, and I KNOW Haiti was never the same! Jason began his Special Forces career in 2005 with Woody as his team leader. We were never the same after Jason came along. Sometimes when we think of them it is with laughter and sometimes it is with tears. As I spoke to Jason's dad, Slim, tonight it was with deep belly laughs that we remembered Jason!

Please keep all of our veterans in your thoughts and prayers.

Love you all,

Lynne

Veteran's Day in Hartselle, AL

2008-11-09T17:11:00.002-06:00

Hartselle Jr. High School is where our niece, Tiffany, attends 8th grade. She invited Uncle Woody to participate in their annual Veteran's celebration, and this year he was able to attend. It was a beautiful program! There were probably 200 Veterans ranging from WWII to the Global War on Terrorism. As you can see from the photo, Woody wore his Class As and did he look handsome or what?!! Tiffany was surprised to see us and couldn't believe her mom and dad kept it from her!

The program included acknowledgement of all of the Veterans who stood as their era of service was announced. Woody started standing as the 80's were called out and sat down at the end! There were several students who read a special essay they had written on what Veteran's Day meant to them. They were wonderful and at times it was difficult to keep your eyes dry. The chorus and band performed beautifully. You could feel the emotion in the room as Taps was played. As close as that hit home for me, I can't even imagine the emotion in the bleachers full of Veterans.

My little brother, Richard, his wife, Rhonda, and Tiffany joined us for dinner Big Bob Gibsons!!! WOW!! We ordered too much so that we could enjoy the ribs and bbq the next day as we watched the Tide Roll over LSU!! My Dad and I are especially fond of their huge baked potato covered with chicken, cheese and a white sauce that is second to none!!

As far as the breast cancer thing goes, I am feeling good. Tomorrow starts my three days of no fresh veggies and fruits and staying away from big crowds and small kids. I am hopeful that when I go back to have my blood checked a week from now that it will show the shot I had to take worked. We will see!

As I have said before, it was wonderful having my grandmother with us for the week. I'm so thankful to have her. She is the most amazing woman. There is so much I could say about her, but that would take days on end! Da, I love you very much!!

I will go now. I hope you all have a great week. Please remember to pause on Tuesday, November 11th and have a moment of silence for all who gave their all for you and our country. Kelly, Scott, and Jason. You are all missed and loved!

I love you all,

Lynne

Blessed...

2008-11-06T16:06:00.002-06:00

That is what I truly am! So far I have been tired and a little achy from the treatments and shot, but I haven't been sick like I could be. Of course, I did learn that just because I wasn't having a bad reaction to things didn't mean that I was completely healthy. I know that my body is going through a lot, so I have to take it easy for the most part to make sure I don't get really down.

On to fun stuff! Today is Destiny's birthday! I saw her for a few mintues and she looked great! Da Sims and I didn't get to have lunch with her, Laurie and Joseph which was a bummer. But, I am glad to have seen her.

Da Sims leaves tomorrow and although it will be sad, I know that she is probably looking forward to being in her own home, alone! Woody and I haven't let her do as much as she may have wanted to. She has complained that we have fed her way too much, but I know she has enjoyed it. Woody is a great cook!

Well, not too much more to share today. It has been pretty quiet around here! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

Love you all,

Lynne

Neulasta, the Day After...

2008-11-05T10:58:00.002-06:00

I come to you today without a great deal of pain!! Yipppeee!!! Don't get me wrong, I do feel achy all over, kinda like the flue, but so far I haven't felt any bone pain. I am very grateful for that!

My body seems to be reacting well from the chemo treatment. As before, I haven't felt any nausea! My mouth is already becoming sensative, which didn't happen this early the last time. I am prepared though, with my mouth rinse and chapstick.

Today I am going to just relax and hang out with my Grandmother and enjoy some time with her. We are going to roll her hair later today so that she can be even more beautiful! She truly is beautiful and our family is so blessed to have her as our matriarch!

Have a great day. Love you all,

Lynne

Two Down, Two to Go!

2008-11-03T18:54:00.002-06:00

Today was my second chemo treatment. If you view the slideshow at the bottom of the blog, you can see a pic or two of the party room itself! As always, Woody and Destiny were right there with me through the entire 3 boring hours! We talk and joke a lot and get very excited each time a bag empties and we are ready for the next! My Grandmother held down the fort at home while we were gone. I'm so thankful to have her here with us.

Back to the treatment talk...My blood work came back really good today. My white count went up as hoped, so I got to enjoy a really big salad today!! It was awesome. I am feeling fine as I type. Tomorrow I go back for the shot that will help keep my white count up. I understand that it can make you feel as though you have the flu, but we will see what it does to me. I am always hopeful that I will continue to have a good reaction for the most part. Of course, I know that whatever happens, it is all going to be good in the end! I will have successfully completed all of the butt kicking needed to kick cancer out of my body!

I will close now and write more tomorrow or the next day!

Love you all,

Lynne

My Grandmother Arrives!

2008-11-02T06:08:00.002-06:00

Well, it has been a few days since my last post. It has been busy and fun since my cousin, Nona, brought my Grandmother, Da Sims, up on Thursday night. It was nice seeing Nona and I think she was glad to have a little time to herself on the drive back to Alabama!

As you can see from the picture posted, I had a great lunch on Friday with Da Sims and Destiny. We had the best "girls" lunch at The Looking Glass. We sat outside and ended the lunch with wonderful desserts and coffee!!

I have been feeling great and have had no temp this entire time that I have had to be careful with my white count being so low. I worked yesterday. Destiny and I had a super nice couple come into town and we were looking at houses until after dark! It was great! Today I am getting back out and spending a bit more time with them finding the right one. I know that I am likely to be confined next week to the house, so I am enjoying this weekend very much!!

My second chemo is on Monday. If all is well with my white count then chemo will be a go. If not, then I don't know how it will go from there. I will keep you all posted.

I am so excited it is November! Our wonderful friend, Melina, will be coming home from Iraq just before Thanksgiving!!! She will be coming home to her very first home!!! (I mean she has lived in a house before, but this one will be the first one she has ever bought!!) It is going to be beautiful and is in the final stages of being finished. I can't wait to see her face when she walks through the front door!! I am sure it will be a welcome sight from her accommodations in Iraq!

Well, I should close this post now. Da Sims thinks I spend too much time on the computer which is making me tired. This from a woman who gets up in the middle of the night and reads the news...online!!! I love you Da. I am so thankful to have such a wonderful Grandmother.

Have a great day and enjoy the extra hour.

Love you all,

Lynne

Bald is Beautiful, Part Three: Going Bald My Way!

2008-10-29T08:25:00.002-05:00

Well, the day finally arrived and it was Tuesday! My hair, as you know, had been gradually coming out, and Monday it started with a vengence! So, I decided it was time to do the deed!!!

Destiny and Laurie were at the house with Woody and me, so we just went out on the deck and made a party out of it! I have uploaded a picture or two, but if you either click on the link below or cut and paste it, you can see a slideshow of the whole event.

http://www.slide.com/r/vCc1n1kJwT9GP2f7OrG5wZ_S0_r6X-M7?previous_view=mscd_embedded_url&view=original

We had a great time and I have to say that it is quite liberating being bald. I know that I will have an easier time getting ready in the mornings whether I chose the itchy wig or simply a hat.

Have a wonderful day!

Love you all,

Lynne

Bald is Beautiful, Part Deux

2008-10-28T06:22:00.002-05:00

Good morning. In continuation of what is likely to be a three or four part series, I want to talk about my trip into baldness!

Monday afternoon Destiny and I went on a mission to find scarfs of some sort due to my impending baldness. We went to Kohls because we knew ours wouldn't be too crowded in the middle of the afternoon. Of course, there weren't any scarves to speak of that would work on my head, so we were drawn to the hats. (Oh, I forgot to mention that I had decided to take my wig out for a test drive yesterday!)

Imagine the scene...Destiny and I are oohhing and aahhing over the pretty hats that had a matching scarf and/or gloves. Destiny picks up the prettiest winter white hat that is sooo soft and says, "Look at this one!". My eyes got big and I think I said something like "that is so glamorous" and had to try it on. It occurred to me that I wouldn't be wearing it with my wig on, so I said to Destiny, "Here, hold my hair!"!!! I pulled my wig off and promptly handed it to her!!! It was hilarious!! I don't know what anyone might have thought had they been in earshot and we really didn't care, because it was a glamorous hat!

We went crazy and I got four awesome hats, a couple of new scarves and a pair of yummy gloves. I have also decided that it is not likely that I will wear a wig a lot over the next few months. They really itch. I have no idea how people wear them by choice!!!

I will update again once we take off the rest of the hair. We are probably going to do it this afternoon. I don't want to see a patch here and there. I would rather just join Woody in the ranks of baldness all at once!!

Have a great week.

Love you all,

Lynne

Bald is Beautiful!

2008-10-26T19:48:00.002-05:00

Let's hope that is true when my hair falls out!! It is so strange that only yesterday I noticed that my hair has been thinning for days! It was so gradual that it didn't occur to me until I took my ponytail out after the walk. There was much more hair there than should have been, so I knew what was coming next.

Woody, Destiny and I picked out a wig on Friday after my appointment at the oncologist. I was being on the safe side and really didn't realize what was happening. My thoughts were that I would donate it if I didn't lose mine, but deep down I thought I would lose it. I am so vien about my hair, that something told me that would be my side effect versus being sick.

Well, it is a coming and I am going to embrace it! Woody shaved his head today and looks totally hot!!! So, we are going to be bald together. We are going to set up a time to just shave it off and be done with it! I will embrace being bald and Woody is committed to being bald as long as I am!!

It is time to go and catch some z's. I am working for a bit tomorrow, but only for a bit and not around people!!

Have a wonderful week and let's all say a big ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!!

Love you all,

Lynne

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk 08

2008-10-25T15:17:00.002-05:00

Today was a beautiful day! Woody and I were joined by many friends early this morning in our efforts to raise awareness of breast cancer as well as raise funds to help in research.

Before I talk anymore about the day, I would like to recognize two of my specials friends who walked with us today. Laurie Moudy and Pamela Olbert. Both Laurie and Pamela lost their precious Mothers to this terrible disease. The strength that each of them showed today was amazing. As far as anyone could tell, their minds were on the present and on supporting me and my fight. I know that their minds and hearts were with their Mothers, as it should be. I hope they both know their Moms are looking down from Heaven and are so proud of their girls! They are beautiful and kind hearted and are raising their children to be the same. Niether Grandmother was able to see their Grandchildren born, but I know they are both Guardian Angels to Taylor, Cayden, Sydney & Noah. So girls, I want you to know how much I appreciate your support during this time. Please know that if you ever need my shoulder to talk about your Moms, you got it! Pamela, I know there has to be even more funny stories for you to share! I won't get mad at you for making me laugh about the things you and your Mom did while she was sick!! lol lol lol Laurie, I want us to talk sometime soon over coffee and scones (baked fresh by you with chocolate chips, of course!!) and have you tell me about your Mom and her struggle. I love you both.

Now, for the lighter side of today! This was our team "Save the Boobies" today: Woody & Me; Destiny, Amie (Des' granddaughter); Laurie and her twins, Sydney & Noah; Joseph; Micheal; Melissa & Estefan; Verisa, Michelle, Daniel & Mimi; Beth, Timothy, Jacob & Kaley; Pamela & Pat, Sumitra & Lindsey; and the Kenwood High School Cheerleaders and their Coach, Kim. WOW!!! How awesome is that?! It meant so much to me to have you all there. Next year we are going to take over!!! There will have to be a BIG tailgate party aftwards. We won't get stuck in parking lot traffic because we will be grilling burgers and dogs waiting on everyone else to leave!!

The day was gorgeous and it was wonderful to see so many different people walking & running. There were young and old and those that didn't have the strength to walk still enjoyed the day with a loved one pushing them in a wheelchair! It was very humbling for me. I know that I have (or in my mind, had) breast cancer, but I also know that I am one of the lucky ones. Mine was caught very early and I will have a full recovery! There are so many others that didn't or won't win the fight, and those that will have a much harder time beating it than me. I admire their will to fight and promise that mine will NEVER break!

I will soon have all of the pictures from everyone elses cameras (I forgot mine!) and will put together a photo album and post it soon. The pics are great!

Have a great rest of the weekend and might I say, "ROLL TIDE ROLL / BEAT TENNESSEE!"

Love you all,

Lynne

Neutropenia in Cancer

2008-10-24T19:16:00.003-05:00

Well, I didn't get the super report I had hoped when I had my blood checked today! Everything checked out well except for my white count. It took a nose dive! So, I was given strict instructions for the next week and will pretty much stay in unless it is to venture out where there aren't a lot of crowds or sick people.

I was given the go ahead to attend the Making Strides for Breast Cancer since it is an outdoor event. I can't hug or kiss anyone, so you know how hard it is going to be for me not to touch people when I talk!!

Woody, Destiny and I picked out a pretty wig today just to be on the safe side. I don't want to wake up one morning with clumps of hair falling out and nothing pretty to put on my head!! If I am lucky enough not to lose my hair, then I will donate it to ACS.

Okay, I won't bore you all tonight with any more thoughts of mine! I am attaching information regarding my problem with the white cell count. So, I guess you will be bored with medical mumbo jumbo!!

Have a great weekend and look for pictures from the walk soon!

Lynne

Neutropenia
Neutropenia refers to a low level of white blood cells. Cancer patients are at higher risk of developing neutropenia because commonly used treatments for cancer such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy destroy cells that grow at a fast rate - such as white blood cells. Since white blood cells play an important role in preventing infection, any time your white blood cell count drops, you are at higher risk of getting an infection. Throughout the course of cancer treatment it is normal practice for doctors to monitor the levels of red and white blood cells and to take action if these become too low.

Neutropenia in Cancer
Since white blood cells are destroyed as a side effect of chemotherapy, there is nothing specifically that you can do to prevent neutropenia from occurring.

Nonetheless, there are several things that you can do to reduce your risk of getting an infection when your white blood cells are low:

Take action at the first signs of infection and seek medical advice to help prevent it from spreading and getting worse. Signs and symptoms of infection include: fever, chills or sweats, shortness of breath, soreness or swelling in your mouth, ulcers or white patches in your mouth, pain or burning with urination, redness, pain or swelling of any area of your skin, pus or drainage from any open cut or sore, a general feeling of being unwell, even if you don't have a temperature or any other sign of an infection.

Perform excellent daily personal hygiene: with attention to hand-washing, sanitary hygiene eg. using pads rather than tampons.

Minimise chances of getting an infection: avoid contact with people who are unwell, has been recently given a live vaccine (such as the oral polio vaccine), try to avoid crowds eg. take public transport at off-peak times, wear shoes to prevent cuts on feet, wear sunscreen, before receiving any vaccine, make sure it is approved by your oncologist.

Neutropenic precautions: regular monitoring of temperature (contact doctor if fever), avoid uncooked foods (such as salads of raw vegetables or fruits, raw meats or fish salads, natural cheeses, uncooked eggs), speak to doctor before undergoing any dental work.

Blood Work Today!

2008-10-24T06:54:00.002-05:00

Good morning everyone. Today is the day for my first round of blood work to see what is going on since my first chemo treatment on the 13th of October (my OLDER brother's birthday...Rob will always be older and grayer than us, Richard!!). Of course, I can't necessarily say he will be balder than us, because I could end up balder than him!! ha ha ha ha ha

I digress...Today is a big day because I don't know what to expect. Of course, I am sure it will all be good so I'm not really worried about it. I will make another post with the results tonight.

I did learn a lesson this week. I was reminded by my body that I did have surgery four weeks ago and, that although I might "think" I feel normal, I am still healing. So, I have to admit that I can't go wide open just yet! Wow, was that a hard pill to swallow! As I lay in bed Wednesday afternoon in my comfy pjs, Destiny called and gave me the what for!! I had to take it like a man and agree that I should admit when I'm really too tired to be out and about! There is so much work I can do sitting on my behind in my livingroom on my comfy chaise lounge!! Seriously, there is and I did a lot of it yesterday!

Well, my morning headache has subsided after an extra strength Tylenol so I will close and get up and move about some. Woody is at the gym and I know he wants grits and eggs for breakfast so I will get the grits going!

Have a great day and a wonderful weekend.

Love you all!

Lynne

Bottomless Pit...

2008-10-21T20:39:00.000-05:00

Yep, that's me! Right now it seems as though I can't get enough to eat, which is definitely better than being sick...so I'm not really complaining! Of course, I am getting up in the morning and going to the gym to walk on the treadmill. I made the mistake of saying someone needs to smack me in the head and tell me I'm full, so Destiny has stepped up to the plate on that one!!

I appreciate the great response to my blog. It makes it so much easier to share with everyone what is going on with me. You know that I do love email and the phone, but lately I just haven't been able to keep up as much as I would like to. Ain't technology great?!!

Having so much support from my family and friends means everything to me. I truly could not do this without you all! Woody is so great and has done everything I need him to do. Thankfully for both of us it has been pretty smooth so far. I am praying it continues this way!

I am so excited that my grandmother, Da Sims, is coming to stay with us for over a week! My cousin, Nona, is bringing her up on the 30th. I don't have to share her with any other cousin after Nona leaves!! Yea me!!!! For those of you who don't know her, she is the most amazing woman! She was my inspiration for turning into a redhead before my chemo started. I will find a great picture of her and post it soon.

Well, I am worn out so it is soon to be lights out...of course not before I find out who is getting voted off of Dancing with the Stars and The Biggest Loser!!! lol lol

Love you all!

First Post!

2008-10-20T19:04:00.000-05:00

Today is my first try at posting something for you to view! I had a great day today and am feeling really good! I was back at work pretty much full swing and am very hopeful I will have many more through the winter months!

My first chemo treatment was a week ago, so I have two more weeks until #2. I go on Friday to have my bloodwork done, so I am also expecting those numbers to be good!! The medicine they give me prior to the chemo has made me feel as though I am never full!!!!! That is so not good. I am going to have to come up with something to trigger me into thinking that I am so that I don't eat too much. Of course, I am much happier having an appetite than being sick all of the time!

I am preparing myself just in case I lose my hair. I ordered a couple of caps today just in case. If I don't need them, then I will donate them to someone. Before my treatment I had my hair cut and colored red (pic to be posted soon!) and then as we are sitting in the chemo party room Destiny found an article that said you shouldn't color your hair at all before beginning treatment, so I may have set myself up...we will see!! Wish me luck.

Well, that is pretty much it. Have a great week!

Lynne