tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19566122702275299012024-03-13T23:15:26.563-04:00So THIS is what it's all about? A strange gift indeed: My life beyond breast cancer...Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-64179038356683328422017-01-01T01:29:00.000-05:002017-01-01T01:29:08.298-05:00New Year Intentions and "One Good Thing"<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">2017 is going to be a good year!</span></h2>
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<b>Say it is so and it will be!</b>
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"One Good Thing" is a concept where you write down something each day that goes well or is great about your day...I don't think I can maintain that level of commitment, so I am going to do this at least monthly. I am asking my friends to join me in doing this as well (please feel free to add your input in the comments when the 'One Good Thing' monthly post is up). We will do this all year and revisit them at the end of the year...or earlier if need be. This exercise should help us maintain focus on positivity and well-being.
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New Year's Resolutions:
I am not a big fan or a believer in creating resolutions which are unattainable or unreasonable. Several years ago, I read something suggesting one should resolve to 'say please and thank you more,' 'enjoy nature more,'
'make more home cooked meals...' and the like. The gist was to make it positive: what you WANT vs. what you do not want (i.e. no resolutions to 'stop smoking' because it is about NOT doing something instead of doing something in particular...so instead of that, the resolution would become, "I will be good/better to my body this year," or "I will improve the health of my lungs...") The intention set is positive and attainable even with small steps instead of setting yourself up for failure.
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This being said, I have some resolutions for myself I will share:
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In 2017, I would like to:
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Learn more about the periodic table of elements and world geography (not just because it would help me at Trivia Night, but because I dig learning)...these are two areas I would like to brush up on some information!<br />
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Finish up some projects around my house! My house is in a fairly perpetual state of remodeling/updating, and I have let some sit for a while. I would like to see some of these projects completed this year. Primarily, the office/library should be completed, and the master bathroom shower deserves some attention! One thing for sure that "has" to be done is the darn roof...that is going to be replaced in March. </div>
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Travel; I would really like to make it to Oregon to see my friends Kev & Cheri (and their adorable munchkins). I would also like to continue traveling locally to see and learn more about the area I live in...
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Some of my wonderful friends gathered with me tonight for dinner, and they shared some of their intentions for the upcoming year:
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<strong><span style="background-color: white;">NL</span> would like to:</strong>
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Learn the Spanish language<br />
Obtain employment after graduating with a Master's Degree<br />
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Complete a baby blanket project in progress<br />
Adopt a more healthy lifestyle <br />
Travel to Knoxville, Tennessee<br />
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<strong>SM would like to:</strong><br />
Learn more about their partner<br />
Travel more<br />
Help a particular friend<br />
Visit Maine<br />
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<strong>IO would like to:</strong>
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Learn about Ireland<br />
Save money<br />
Visit St. Augustine, Florida
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<strong>CF would like to:</strong>
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Learn to play the harmonica
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<strong>TL would like to:</strong><br />
Learn the Spanish language
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Locate an appropriate program with housing for a family member<br />
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Go to Ocala, Florida and go ziplining there<br />
Purchase a new truck for their partner
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<strong>KG would like to:</strong><br />
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Create a piece of mosaic art<br />
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We send these intentions into the night and into the new year! <img height="571" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ITtqqRdLhQE/UUEnqwtkfGI/AAAAAAAAFaA/o-zlI2TUonE/s1600/irish+blessing.jpg" width="428" /></h2>
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Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-34088555138451883772012-10-18T21:40:00.000-04:002012-10-18T21:41:04.009-04:00A Long Strange Trip...a gift indeedThree years ago today, I began feeling the effects of my first chemo "therapy." It takes very little for me to summon the corporeal memory...I recall that strange, thick fog and heat.
Tonight, I ran with Trip for quite a distance (for us.) I was exquisitely aware of the beauty in our abilities and movement. Completely present in our moment--and grateful.
A strange gift indeed...Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-19458380582286866852012-10-13T13:15:00.001-04:002012-10-13T13:15:18.641-04:00Fight Breast Cancer with G-BOMBS<a href="http://www.diseaseproof.com/archives/breast-cancer-fight-breast-cancer-with-gbombs.html">Fight Breast Cancer with G-BOMBS</a><br />
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Great Article on foods that ramp up the immune system. Greens; Beans; Onions; Mushrooms; Berries and Seeds!<br />
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Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-10620188443076225232012-09-29T22:12:00.000-04:002012-09-29T23:41:56.146-04:00homeless visitors...Such a good, funny, recycled (not homeless) life...
When I go to the dog park, or even take the boys for walks, I don't feel the need to get dressed up. In fact, my friend Sandi's husband says I look a bit like a homeless person when I am out with my dogs. This point I cannot argue, but I have to say I would look like a well-fed homeless person...
A little over a month ago, I decided to get an adult tricycle. Why? I exercise nightly, and the boys each get a decent 2-3 mile walk just about every night. For some variety, I felt the bike would be a good thing for the boys and me. Hell, the walking is tearing up my knees...and if I was feeling lazy, they could just pull me, right? Oh, and why a TRIKE as opposed to a BIKE? Well, my balance is fine, but add in anxious Mr. Sarge, and I could just see myself splayed out in the road, half-dead, from some accident caused by a bunny rabbit. This clearly would be a better way to die than some deaths; however, I am not quite ready.
Another thing you should know about adult tricycles. These are not the huge-front-wheeled contraptions from the early 1900s you may be picturing. There is quite a market for these things in Florida. Yes, they are often used by older folks. The seats are called saddles...they are oversized and quite comfy. My saddle holds my entire ass, and this is no easy feat (ask my pants.) Also, homeless Florida folks seem to like trikes, as they have nifty baskets on the back. Apparently, the large baskets are perfect for collecting cans to haul to the recyclers. Indeed, it is not unusual to see well-worn humans riding well-ridden tricycles up and down residential streets on recycleable-collection days.
I found my tricycle on Craigslist. It was $80, was owned by a very small old Cuban man, and it needed tires, tubes, brakes, etc. Of COURSE I bought it! After trying my mad (and non-existent) bicycle repair/maintenance skills, I took it to a real and locally-owned bike shop (ABC Bicycles in St. Pete). They took my poor, sad looking trike and dressed her up with new tires, tubes, handlebar grips, brake lines...fixed the brakes...Mind you, she still is a wee bit sad looking--even with the awesome LED lights I got for her (required by law, thank you.) Her former owner added an oversized metal basket to the back...it sticks out too far in the back, as it was clearly not originally intended to be a trike basket. It fits and it works though...I figured if I wore out the dogs, I could easily have one of them ride in the back in the basket. This basket has been spray-painted white; however, this was done many moons ago. The rust has about 30% coverage. Additionally, someone spray painted the handlebar assembly a solid, flat black. This does not match the rest of the bike. The rest of the bike is blue and silver steel. Oh! And there are 3 different wheels...and since it would have taken a two-week wait to get all matching tires, she has meaty, off-road tires on the back and a smoother "road" tire on the front. My trike has ghetto character. After the time and money I have spent on this thing...yes, I could have had a brand new, shiny trike...and most people who know me well will tell you I prefer character over common (or even downright "new.")
Tonight, Trip and I ventured out for our evening trike ride and run. I donned my faded tie-dye t-shirt, cut off grey sweatpant shorts and brown tennis shoes. My friend Michelle is working weekend nights at Busch Gardens, so we've been visiting her dog Luna--who may be feeling somewhat lonely while her hu-mom is working.
I parked the trike out in front of Michelle's garage door and decided to take Luna for a walk with Trip. So, we walked around for a while...until both of the dogs started sniffing more than walking. On our way back to the house, I noticed a large truck parked in the street, just blocking Michelle's driveway. I thought, hmmmm...what a jerk for parking there. Then I realized there was someone in that thar pickup. He was holding up his phone until he noticed me walking up toward the driveway with the dogs.
I smiled when I noticed a human in the large truck, and said, "Hello there!" He responded, "That's my sister's dog," as if not quite sure how to deciper his current situation. I realized this was Michelle's brother (whose name I always forget), so I identified myself as Tory and told him I was visiting Luna since Michelle was at Busch. He said he had just gotten off work and was checking on his sister's place...he then asked if that was my bike in the driveway. I claimed it. He then cautiously told me he thought it might belong to a homeless person, and that he was wondering why there was a homeless person at his sister's house.
I just laughed...and looked down at myself and laughed some more.Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-17113345867519334852011-02-26T23:55:00.000-05:002011-02-26T23:55:22.039-05:00Catch up time; closing out 2010...profound changesWow, so someone pointed out to me that I had not updated my blog since August (gasp!) I think it was during August (my birthday month), that I began to detatch myself somewhat from the identity of "breast cancer patient/survivor." I had my first test results...they were negative for signs of cancer, and I was nearing the end of over a year of treatment. Honestly, I remember just trying to forget about cancer and all I had been through because of it. I wanted to be "normal" again (whatever the hell that is exactly). The funny thing is, major illness or extreme life events change you forever...in good ways, bad ways, whatever--however you allow them to alter you they do. I am forever a different person because of what I have experienced. I hope, and I believe, I am a better person. <br />
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September and October were strange months for me. I was dealing with the fact that I was to begin shifting "roles." Soon, I would no longer be "on treatment;" someone who went to the Cancer doc to get meds (Herceptin) injected every 3 weeks. Normally, the loss of a role causes some sort of grieving. How strange that I struggled to determine how to cope. My last treatment, in mid-October, was without fanfare. I think that if I were to do it over, I would choose to make it more of a "big deal." I did celebrate with friends later on, but I think that it was a bigger transition than I let it be outwardly. I think it would have helped me ease into the "survivor role" a bit better than the way I chose to handle it at the time. Nonetheless, I stumbled into the survivor role with all of the gusto and might that I have put into most other life situations/events. I even signed up for the Susan G. Komen 5K Race for the Cure. I participated as a survivor in early October with my friend Karina. My sister, Becky, was there to cheer us on. <br />
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My thoughts on the Susan G. Komen 5K Race for the Cure: I was stunned and overwhelmed--both horribly sad and encouraged that people were participating in such numbers. I fought tears and enjoyed goosebumps during most of the event. There were thousands of people! I wore my bright fuschia shirt that said "Survivor." I <u><strong>HATED</strong></u> seeing all of the little handmade signs people wore saying they were participating "In Memory of..." The man with the two small children who walked in memory of his wife, the childrens' mother; I almost could not walk any more. Karina, my friend who walked with me, may not realize that if she was not there I would have just sat down in the road and cried. I participated "In Celebration of" ME (I wrote ME on the sign.) There were others who did the same for themselves. I had to stop looking for "In Celebration of" signs...I saw too many "In Memory of" signs. Thinking back now, I can feel the overwhelming emotions I felt that morning. Oddly, I will have to think hard about whether or not I can devote the mental and emotional energy to participate in an event like that again. I more than likely will participate again, but I know there is a toll associated with it.<br />
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November and December were very difficult months for me emotionally. I struggled hard to stop thinking about everything that had happened the year before. Not that everything I was thinking about was 'bad,' but I played into the "anniversary" thoughts and was swimming in some dark feelings I suppose I needed to work through. And now, "all fixed up," I felt I was left dealing with the aftermath (this new role) without much guidance, or any idea for that matter, on how to be a cancer survivor. Ultimately, I realized that was up to me to decide. Is that who I am or a piece of who I am? How important to me is it to have that as part of my identity? Should I do something <em>more </em>with this experience? Would someone please write a guide on how to act now? In fact, I'd like a guideline on that and how to treat other people who have been through such experiences. Not that I am good at following guidelines or anything, but some idea would be helpful. Frankly, I was a bit lost. I am not so sure I have completely gotten past that stage either.<br />
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Closing out 2010: I am profoundly altered: more intense and passionate about life (humanity, love, friendships, relationships in general, feeling...) I think I have learned to focus more on what is really important.<br />
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And I still analyze things far too deeply!Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-26389694259156768622010-08-03T12:45:00.000-04:002010-08-03T12:45:39.859-04:00My First Post-Treatment PET Scan---I am free from cancer!Well, yesterday, I received the results of my first post-treatment PET Scan. After doing my best to not worry all weekend (the scan was last week, on Thursday), I started to freak out sometime around noon on Monday. I have had ongoing issues with getting the Dr. to call me whenever test results come in, and I was not about to let this one slide. <br />
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I kept calling...10AM, no results yet; 12:00 PM, will have Dr. call me ASAP; 1:30 PM, the Dr. will call me (then I cried and begged...I told them that they just do not call me back, I really did cry) I was having a panic attack at this point (no fun, considering I was at work!!!)<br />
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Then, Nellie (Dr. Wright's assistant) called me. NO CANCER detected in my bones, liver, lungs, brain, chest...etc.!!! Then, I cried in relief.<br />
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My thyroid lit up the test again (and NO, I am not going to let them tinker with that again--we will just assume it is fine); and the Sinus Infection I have been dealing with showed up (they do want me to follow up with an ENT (Ear Nose Throat) Specialist to have my sinuses checked out (not for cancer, but for abcesses, etc.) <br />
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NO CANCER!<br />
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So grateful and relieved!!!Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-81996842094504438852010-05-12T23:05:00.001-04:002010-05-13T23:18:27.625-04:00Wow, it has been a while!Wow! I just realized how long it has been since I have written...<br />
I met with my doc this morning...I had not seen Dr. Wright in a few months, as he has been in a different location on Thursdays (I've met with his assistant, Nellie in his absence). He told me he was sruprised I looked so well...ah, he always makes me feel good!<br />
I am happy that I have lost more weight since my last visit three weeks ago...a few more pounds off. Seems like the weight is coming off so slowly. Oh well, I am doing as much as I can, eating better and exercising. Ugh, ready for my pre-chemo pants to fit again!!!<br />
So, Dr. Wright and I discussed quite a few things:<br />
Protein Marker Results: Doc said this is kind of like testing for smoke from a possible fire. There was no smoke detected in the last test...Yay! Today, they drew blood to test more directly for "fire..." the results will be back in a day or so.<br />
PET Scan: will be in mid-June. He is looking at the research I provided him re: the Whole Body MRI research (found that MRI may be just as good at detecting cancer tumours as PET/CT Scans without subjecting the recipient to the radiation of a PET Scan.) I am still a bit leery from the MRI issue I had with the Breast Scans back in August of last year--I feel like it missed much of the cancer/what was going on...we will see how I feel about this moving forward. Maybe I would insist the results be read by more than one person...<br />
Swelling on the right side of my chest: Dr. Wright looked at the swelling and indicated he did not feel like I needed to follow up with Dr. Cox.<br />
Recent Research discussion:<br />
1) Baby Aspirin: I told him I have been taking 81 mg/day based on the recent research showing that there was some reduction in cancer recurrence rates by taking it. He gave me an enthusiastic thumbs up and said that the research showed that taking it 5 days a week instead of 7 was shown to be more beneficial. Strange...okay, so I will take it Monday through Friday. Hmmm... this seems to have something to do with reducing the amount of inflammation in the body as a whole. Can't hurt I suppose.<br />
2) Inositol/IP-6: he has no issues with my taking this...there is some research being done on this.<br />
3) Sulforaphane (Broccoli Extract): I gave him the synopsis of the research and he said I could take it with no problem. I think I will order some from the Internet, as I have had some difficulty finding it in my local stores. Strange that more health-food stores do not carry this...there is so much research that has been done on the health benefits of Broccoli on a number of types of cancer. Some recent research shows that sulforaphane may shrink cancer cells or eradicate them. Hell...it's Broccoli. I can't eat enough of it, so if it comes in pill form, what the hey?<br />
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Basically, the doc is fine with my taking supplements and vitamins. Good deal!<br />
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So, I did get my Herceptin treatment today. It really does make me feel a bit funky afterward. Hm...oh well, that is what naps are for!Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-33011694690984318082010-05-10T23:00:00.000-04:002010-05-13T23:23:23.837-04:00Hair update!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S-zBnEbdDHI/AAAAAAAAAMA/3hE0wyJ-Src/s1600/SDC11464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S-zBnEbdDHI/AAAAAAAAAMA/3hE0wyJ-Src/s200/SDC11464.JPG" width="186" wt="true" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S-zBoE5Is9I/AAAAAAAAAMI/dCcddGRPHIQ/s1600/SDC11468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S-zBoE5Is9I/AAAAAAAAAMI/dCcddGRPHIQ/s200/SDC11468.JPG" width="175" wt="true" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S-zBmHUMkXI/AAAAAAAAAL4/ZwccPlyIbpo/s1600/SDC11456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S-zBmHUMkXI/AAAAAAAAAL4/ZwccPlyIbpo/s200/SDC11456.JPG" width="200" wt="true" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S-zBk9CWKTI/AAAAAAAAALw/03M84F7k9SI/s1600/SDC11453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S-zBk9CWKTI/AAAAAAAAALw/03M84F7k9SI/s200/SDC11453.JPG" width="188" wt="true" /></a>As of Monday, May 10th~!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S-zBhzcmRRI/AAAAAAAAALo/7A092LcUe5Y/s1600/SDC11451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S-zBhzcmRRI/AAAAAAAAALo/7A092LcUe5Y/s200/SDC11451.JPG" width="166" wt="true" /></a></div>It is definitely coming in thicker these days...so nice to have some hair!Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-69683417476231501772010-04-20T22:41:00.000-04:002010-04-26T10:46:07.972-04:00Follicular Follies...As of April 20, 2010<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9WmUPROT5I/AAAAAAAAALI/_85vUUe4YOk/s1600/SDC10758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9WmUPROT5I/AAAAAAAAALI/_85vUUe4YOk/s200/SDC10758.JPG" tt="true" width="175" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9WmXZ0ufbI/AAAAAAAAALY/s6N86Oef-3U/s1600/SDC10763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9WmXZ0ufbI/AAAAAAAAALY/s6N86Oef-3U/s200/SDC10763.JPG" tt="true" width="198" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9WmYqpm7VI/AAAAAAAAALg/BsyDW6mu6BA/s1600/SDC10769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9WmYqpm7VI/AAAAAAAAALg/BsyDW6mu6BA/s320/SDC10769.JPG" tt="true" width="295" /></a></div>Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-17542323193699111682010-04-20T22:05:00.002-04:002010-04-26T10:39:15.135-04:00Mental and Physical HealthEven though I have been done with Radiation for about 12 days, I still have some ugly burns on my skin. It is healing well, but I had another area (about 2 inches long) split open and begin to drain about 5 days ago. I am able to wear my bras again...with my silly poofy pillows ;-)<br />
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I've been looking lately at getting more appropriate prosthetics--even though they seem rather goofy to me! I think I would feel more comfortable with them moving forward though. Plus, there are some that can be used for swimming, and that would make me feel much more comfortable at the beach!!!<br />
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I've been fairly depressed during the last week or so, it has been a real struggle to make myself do my usual work and other tasks. Once I start though, I can really get into things and get a lot done. That is good...<br />
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I finally got up to the gym yesterday, after a couple of weeks off. Even with the last bit of skin that opened up recently, I figured I should go--if nothing more than for the mental benefit!!! I still have about 10 extra pounds on me from chemo/steroids (well, I have a few extra pounds more than that--but this is all I can blame on chemo!) I am getting tired of carrying around the extra weight. I want back into my pre-chemo britches!!!<br />
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Slowly, I have begun to focus back on my food and calorie intake. I mostly struggle with incorporating enough veggies and fruit into my diet. I am hell-bent on correcting this!!! Vitamins: I started taking a prenatal vitamin with herbs. No real reason other than to ensure I get my hair to grow as quickly as possible (hehe)! I am still taking Evening Primrose Oil (hotflashes), Black Cohosh Herb (night sweats), and Vitamin D. The Vitamin D is due to some recent research that has shown women who develop Breast Cancer tend to have lower levels of the vitamin. Also there have been some very positive (and scientific even) research findings showing the benefits of Vitamin D. <br />
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So, I am focused on some good things: diet, exercise, work...my dog! Still need to keep working on ME and focusing on my mental health (oh well, that is a lifelong endeavor, isn't it?)<br />
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I did visit with the Psychiatrist this evening. I have not seen him since before I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. When I was thinking about all that has happened in the last 8 months, I realized how much I had been through. He continued my prescription for Cymbalta...I figure Cymbalta has helped me a lot through the past 8 months! Hell, I can be depressed enough at times without it, I cannot imagine what I would have felt like going through surgeries, radiation and chemo without it! Sheesh...I really don't want to think about that!<br />
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Well, enough rambling for now!Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-69596262635673568222010-04-14T22:18:00.002-04:002010-04-26T10:23:06.072-04:00Finally Done with Radiation!Well, it has been a while since I have written, but I finished Radiation on April 8th. My Radiation Therapists were so great to me...even gave me donuts to celebrate...got a cute certificate and everything! I gave them a card...they really made the whole experience a better one (it could have been even more taxing with staff who were unhappy, sullen or whatever). It was so nice to have cheerful, patient, knowledgeable folks working with me each day during the process!<br />
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Thank you Tampa Bay Radiation Oncology staff! You guys are the BEST!Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-30182460908982613872010-04-12T21:30:00.000-04:002010-04-26T10:24:00.118-04:00Follicular Follies...Here is where I am at as of today, February 12th!<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9Wfsr5MM7I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/nJsoHsTkUtc/s1600/SDC10628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9Wfsr5MM7I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/nJsoHsTkUtc/s200/SDC10628.JPG" tt="true" width="150" /></a></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9Wfv6Woc9I/AAAAAAAAAKI/DnU70yKb0Sk/s1600/SDC10634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9Wfv6Woc9I/AAAAAAAAAKI/DnU70yKb0Sk/s200/SDC10634.JPG" tt="true" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9WfypYd5yI/AAAAAAAAAKY/Nrf61oYuRDQ/s1600/SDC10646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9WfypYd5yI/AAAAAAAAAKY/Nrf61oYuRDQ/s200/SDC10646.JPG" tt="true" width="186" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9WfxTB4KkI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/WhVWhZG0EpI/s1600/SDC10638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9WfxTB4KkI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/WhVWhZG0EpI/s200/SDC10638.JPG" tt="true" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9WfuATrAeI/AAAAAAAAAKA/Mkl2cS7Je-Q/s1600/SDC10631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S9WfuATrAeI/AAAAAAAAAKA/Mkl2cS7Je-Q/s200/SDC10631.JPG" tt="true" width="194" /></a></div>Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-84742147671647451382010-04-07T22:07:00.000-04:002010-04-07T22:07:16.725-04:00Just ONE more.....Last night was fairly restless--Percoset helps with pain and mood, but it really jacked with the quality of my sleep. Wow...cool dreams though. Nice and bizarre!<br />
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The pain from my burns is still very much there, but when I am able to take Percoset, it helps a lot. The swelling under my arm is very slightly reduced...this apparently will take some time to go down. Ugh, I am sure my caffeine intake is not helping either the pain or the swelling for that matter.<br />
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Getting into position today for the targeted radiation treatment was a bit easier, thank goodness. The radiation therapists are such good folks--even saved me a doughnut from their lunch! Yummy Krispy Kreme doughnut! <br />
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I don't know if I mentioned this before, but I am blogging for the Youth and Family Alternatives Rap River Run 5K Race. It is held in June, and I decided a while back to start training to participate. I agreed to track my progress with training for my first 5K, and I blog each Wednesday night with my weekly updates. I really couldn't contribute much this week--I have not been able to do any exercise for about a week and a half. Oh well, when the burns heal up a bit and the swelling abates, I will get back into the swing of things. <br />
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Here is a link to the Rap River Run Blog: <a href="http://www.rapriverrun5k.blogspot.com/">http://www.rapriverrun5k.blogspot.com/</a><br />
There you can follow my progress, along with that of other folks who are training to participate in the race. I hope that those of you who are in the area will join me at the race!<br />
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JUST ONE MORE RADIATION TREATMENT TO GO!!! I WILL BE DONE TOMORROW!!! WOO HOO!!!Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-83108133435350514592010-04-06T21:09:00.001-04:002010-04-07T21:56:46.922-04:00Bring in the Percoset, please!I did not sleep much last night, just could not quiet my mind or find a spot that was comfortable to my left arm or chest area. These burns are a bitch!<br />
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I decided I would ask the doc for some Percoset, as Tylenol, Advil and Vicodin have not done a damn thing for the pain (or swelling for that matter!) I could probably deal with the pain...but emotionally I have been just worn out. The pain is making me emotionally worse and vice versa.<br />
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Getting into position for my radiation treatment was a grueling experience today. Lifting my left arm above my head with cracked and burned skin...sheesh! You know, I have chatted with two other breast cancer survivors who endured radiation...and neither of them had burns like I have. Lucky ladies! Ugh, if ONLY!!!<br />
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Anyway, the doc was kind enough to prescribe some Percoset, and it is helping. If nothing else, it is helping my mood. Oh, and it does cut the pain down too. <br />
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Just 2 more...I am even beginning to cheer up with the thought of being done!Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-75431122731823183672010-04-05T21:45:00.002-04:002010-04-07T21:49:37.715-04:00Emotional and Physical Fatigue...Well, this last week has been a bit rough both emotionally and physically. Physically, the area that has been radiated has been very sore, achy and (last week) oozing, bleeding, etc. Now, I am just in pain from the swelling around the worst burn under my left arm. It seems to be a bit of edema, and the skin is just cooked. It is difficult to get comfortable, especially when I am trying to rest or sleep. I have not been able to sleep much at night due to the consistent pain.<br />
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Emotionally, I have struggled greatly with feelings of loneliness--probably just emotional fatigue. It is a real bitch going to get zapped every day. Anyway, I am almost done...just 3 more radiation treatments to go!Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-22608753768590231272010-04-05T08:15:00.000-04:002010-04-07T22:16:22.139-04:00The Follicular Follies...Here's where I am at as of today, April 5th, 2010.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S707Ouu6moI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/jVjupDLobrs/s1600/SDC10552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S707Ouu6moI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/jVjupDLobrs/s200/SDC10552.JPG" width="146" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S707TkmiRZI/AAAAAAAAAJY/80jRQWkdDEw/s1600/SDC10553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" nt="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S707TkmiRZI/AAAAAAAAAJY/80jRQWkdDEw/s200/SDC10553.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S707X_qQvMI/AAAAAAAAAJg/HonQxmJquRs/s1600/SDC10558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" nt="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S707X_qQvMI/AAAAAAAAAJg/HonQxmJquRs/s200/SDC10558.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S707cAGvkHI/AAAAAAAAAJo/XkE-W6Z4G-E/s1600/SDC10559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" nt="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S707cAGvkHI/AAAAAAAAAJo/XkE-W6Z4G-E/s200/SDC10559.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S707e8HQIXI/AAAAAAAAAJw/x8L3Tf-xm1Y/s1600/SDC10575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S707e8HQIXI/AAAAAAAAAJw/x8L3Tf-xm1Y/s200/SDC10575.JPG" width="195" /></a></div>Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-63181528485202321092010-04-01T21:40:00.001-04:002010-04-07T21:45:17.547-04:00Herceptin...Radiation...a bit much for one day!!!Well, today I had a combo: Herceptin treatment in the morning and Radiation in the afternoon. Sheesh. That makes me VERY tired!!!<br />
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Bloodwork looks great, and I also received the results from my first cancer protein tests. So far, I fall within the normal range, and that means there appears to be no other cancer in my body. Mind you, the protein tests are NOT imperfect...so this cannot be used as the only indicator of being cancer-free. It is just a good sign...and I am glad to hear that. <br />
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I started my "targeted" radiation today...hopefully my skin will begin to heal in the other areas pronto!Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-32607278944928431712010-03-31T20:27:00.003-04:002010-04-06T15:38:10.735-04:00Last "Regular Radiation..." targeted begins tomorrow...So, today I had my last "regular radiation" treatment. Tomorrow I begin my "targeted" or "boost" radiation of just the scar line. I learned today that the difference is that protons are aimed at the area (instead of electrons as have been the case with regular radiation). Hmmm...interesting.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7uLyTw4ygI/AAAAAAAAAIY/05cA7HPeYJQ/s1600/Final+radiation+burns+armpit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7uLyTw4ygI/AAAAAAAAAIY/05cA7HPeYJQ/s200/Final+radiation+burns+armpit.jpg" width="175" /></a></div>Well, my skin is fairly trashed at this point. This is the latest pic of the burns under my arm. Yes, it hurts a bit...although I am still numb at the worst part...it is just the area beneath it that hurts (there is some swelling there).<br />
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I also took some pictures of the radiation machine...the "Linear Accelerator." The machine is the one I have been visiting every day. I also took a pic of my view during part of treatment. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7uNG7jmrYI/AAAAAAAAAIg/sQgata90lcg/s1600/SDC10413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" nt="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7uNG7jmrYI/AAAAAAAAAIg/sQgata90lcg/s320/SDC10413.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7uNUigXJGI/AAAAAAAAAIo/rZhcf_8kFAc/s1600/SDC10416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" nt="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7uNUigXJGI/AAAAAAAAAIo/rZhcf_8kFAc/s320/SDC10416.JPG" /></a></div>Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-66928420080135003952010-03-30T20:17:00.000-04:002010-03-31T11:38:34.620-04:00Working...shirtlessToday I had an early Radiation Doc appointment--my usual Tuesday meeting with him and then he had to "mark me up" for the targeted/boost radiation treatment set to begin on Thursday, April 1, 2010. The doc looked at my skin and offere to let me have a "rest" from radiation for a couple of days. I asked if that meant they would make me get them later, yes it would, so I said, "No, just treat me." Hell, I was so upset when I learned that my last day of radiation was NOT March 31st, but April 8th...I can not stand to go beyond that dammit!!!<br />
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Yes, my skin is fried. There are at least 5 different spots with 2nd degree burns or worse, and one area (under my arm) is constantly "draining." The stinging...this truly sucks!<br />
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Anyway, I was "marked up," then treated, then set up for targeted radiation. Thankfully, I only had to have two of the usual four series of treatments today--we are done with treating the super-clavicle area (last one was Monday). What was really fun today was that I could not apply any of the Silvedene cream to my skin until after treatment. Normally, I put it on in the morning (after my shower) and then in the evenings and before bed. However, because I cannot apply it within 4 hours before being treated, and with such an early appointment today, I went in with having only applying aloe gel. Don't get me wrong, aloe gel is great, but it really does very little for me at this point. Plus, when it dries, it has the tendency to make your skin a bit tight and dry.<br />
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Well, because I was unable to wear any top that even somewhat resembled "business casual," I opted to head home after the appointment and do some work remotely...and shirtless. The shirt I wore to treatment had to be soaked so the stains would not set in...<br />
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My last "regular" radiation treatment is tomorrow...then five days of targeted treatment along the scar line. Luckily, the scar line is not burned up too badly, yet.Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-66229393238778491002010-03-29T23:10:00.003-04:002010-04-07T22:18:20.574-04:00Cancer Impatient...It has been a little while since I have written much about my ongoing treatment. Honestly, I have been so busy with many different things, and, I suppose, trying not to devote too much mental energy to my being a "cancer patient." I have been going to work each day, then dragging myself to Tampa to get radiation treatment every afternoon. After that, I have been going to the dog park with Sarge and/or to the gym to work out.<br />
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Last week, when I saw the Radiation Oncologist, I complained that my skin was beginning to crack, peel and sting. He prescribed Silvedene cream. What a god-send! That stuff really makes it feel better; however, it does not stop me from continuing to be burned worse and worse. By the end of last week, I had the Radiation Therapists look and tell me if I was okay. Sadly, they said that many folks get much worse burns than me--so I guess I am okay. Oh, the doc also prescribed Flexaril for the spasms in my neck (it helped...and I have taken it twice; however, it makes me feel so crappy the next day, I probably will not take it again.) The neck spasms are not as bad lately though...so I will endure.<br />
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Today, while getting ready for work, I noticed that my major sores from radiation (under my arm, on my upper back, and around my collarbone) were oozing..and some spots spontaneously bled when I lifted my arm. That was lovely--I noticed the shirt I had worn to bed had moisture and/or blood from the radiatedd skin as well. So, I opted to go without a bra/cami, and I put on a larger cotton shirt. Then, I tied a big scarf around my neck and let it drape over my chest (to cover my lack of breasts and any possible bleeding or oozing that might seep through my shirt.) So--I was set, and I went off to work for the day.<br />
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While heading to Tampa for radiation treatment, I began to feel a bit gloomy. My skin felt so tight, and various spots were stinging like crazy. The radiation therapist looked at my skin again...and he had the nurse come look to see if we needed to forego treatment for the day. She gave me instructions to use Domeboro as a compress on my burns, especially where the skin had "broken down." I went ahead with treatment though...and I fought tears.<br />
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I suppose I could describe the feeling I had as loneliness. Hell, you are laying there, "receiving" radiation from this large machine hovering over you, you are alone, in a large room--warning lights flash to ensure no one else enters the room and is subject to the radiation. And when your skin is already so burned...tight and stinging...you choose to forge ahead and subject yourself to even more...<br />
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I cried a bit while driving to the pharmacy. I went from sad to mad...I guess I was mad at the world...for not having a true "partner" in all of this, for not having someone to care for me...then I got mad at myself for being such a good little "victim."<br />
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So, at home, I applied the compress--that stung like hell, then I slathered on some Silvedene cream. That provided some relief--thank goodness.<br />
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Needless to say, I did not make it up to the gym. I had to call and cancel my appointment with the trainer. Oh well, that would have been a bit unfortunate anyway...sweat, blood and oozing sores. No one likes to see that at their local gym...<br />
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Some pics of my burns...yes, I look really happy! ;-) <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7NtYatriAI/AAAAAAAAAGY/VeIjzTPzKAk/s1600/tory+face+hair+and+burns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7NtYatriAI/AAAAAAAAAGY/VeIjzTPzKAk/s200/tory+face+hair+and+burns.jpg" width="130" /></a>The white gunk is the Silvedene cream.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7Ntab_ZtyI/AAAAAAAAAGg/qagitVbnL7I/s1600/Armpit+burn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7Ntab_ZtyI/AAAAAAAAAGg/qagitVbnL7I/s200/Armpit+burn.jpg" width="133" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7NtcBzCrVI/AAAAAAAAAGo/dK0xNfx43uc/s1600/burns+shoulder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" nt="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7NtcBzCrVI/AAAAAAAAAGo/dK0xNfx43uc/s200/burns+shoulder.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Armpit (left) and shoulder (right).</div>Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-51355247452474520342010-03-28T22:15:00.001-04:002010-04-07T22:19:28.914-04:00Hair is coming in...sloooooowwwwlllyyyyHair regrowth as of the 28th of March, two months after my last chemo.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7NudPJ-NOI/AAAAAAAAAG4/K6pvYzHMLj0/s1600/tory+top+of+head+3-28-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7NudPJ-NOI/AAAAAAAAAG4/K6pvYzHMLj0/s200/tory+top+of+head+3-28-10.jpg" width="188" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7NujsUBByI/AAAAAAAAAHA/I73SykCtddA/s1600/tory+side+hair+3-28-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" nt="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7NujsUBByI/AAAAAAAAAHA/I73SykCtddA/s200/tory+side+hair+3-28-10.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7Nulx1wsqI/AAAAAAAAAHI/0ASStoF5O3k/s1600/tory+side+hair+2+3-28-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" nt="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7Nulx1wsqI/AAAAAAAAAHI/0ASStoF5O3k/s200/tory+side+hair+2+3-28-10.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7NurnRVOlI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/gyV1FcKvFoE/s1600/tory+back+of+head+3-28-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7NurnRVOlI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/gyV1FcKvFoE/s200/tory+back+of+head+3-28-10.jpg" width="158" /></a></div>Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-15756244513812869512010-03-25T21:16:00.002-04:002010-04-07T22:20:09.137-04:00Radiation Burns...Well, here is a photo of some of the burns I have from radiation treatment. With about 1 week of regular radiation to go, there are some areas where my skin is breaking down (armpit--ouch!) It is a bit painful in some spots, but nothing unmanageable!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7M9tlg-32I/AAAAAAAAAGQ/eVU3MDSX8FQ/s1600/radiation+burns+3+3-25-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" nt="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7M9tlg-32I/AAAAAAAAAGQ/eVU3MDSX8FQ/s200/radiation+burns+3+3-25-10.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-51615546124832758952010-03-20T20:08:00.002-04:002010-04-07T22:20:45.440-04:00Hair Progress?Goodness, this is slow!!! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7M8PddaFDI/AAAAAAAAAGA/sr4Vaw-qF20/s1600/Tory+full+face+3-20-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7M8PddaFDI/AAAAAAAAAGA/sr4Vaw-qF20/s200/Tory+full+face+3-20-10.jpg" width="151" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7M8Lx7vYhI/AAAAAAAAAF4/MzBd1JRnpto/s1600/Tory+front+3-20-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7M8Lx7vYhI/AAAAAAAAAF4/MzBd1JRnpto/s200/Tory+front+3-20-10.jpg" width="178" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7M8UK9wARI/AAAAAAAAAGI/l6kzEyQ91NM/s1600/Tory+side+3-20-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" nt="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7M8UK9wARI/AAAAAAAAAGI/l6kzEyQ91NM/s200/Tory+side+3-20-10.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7M8ImgzmtI/AAAAAAAAAFw/C0vsVTdQfmE/s1600/Tory+back+3-20-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" nt="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S7M8ImgzmtI/AAAAAAAAAFw/C0vsVTdQfmE/s200/Tory+back+3-20-10.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-61664468296424165912010-03-18T07:16:00.000-04:002010-03-18T07:16:53.847-04:00Three more weeks of Radiation!Well, as of today (after today's radiation treatment, actually), I have 3 more weeks of radiation treatment. The final "regular" radiation is on March 31st...then I have 5 "boosts" that will target the area along the scar line. So...the last day should be April 8th. <br />
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So far, I have had 3.5 weeks of radiation. I have developed a mild "tan" to my skin on the areas they are targeting. I am using aloe gel (bottled and purified) and/or aloe directly from the plant (just cut off the outside and smear it on!) The aloe seems to be helping, but my skin is still tender and dry where they are treating. I have a couple of small sores in the general area where I have scratched some tender skin...it just opens up and bleeds quite easily. Fun fun!<br />
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I don't know if it is the position they have me in each day or the radiation itself, but I have had some lovely neck and shoulder-area muscle spasms. These usually get worse after each radiation treatment...and I have had neck and shoulder pain just about daily. During the weekends, I seem to get a bit of a reprieve...and just after I get my Wednesday massage I do much better. The massage I had last week (March 10th) loosened me up all the way through the 16th...I had no pain until that afternoon! Yay massages!<br />
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Really, radiation is just a pain to have to endure each day (an inconvenience). You get used to it...it becomes part of your daily routine...and it becomes less emotional the more you go...well, as long as there is an end in sight! I will say that having fun, happy and upbeat folks at the radiation center makes a huge difference...they make me laugh, and they make me as comfortable as possible...kudos to them!Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1956612270227529901.post-80843911540648849422010-03-15T18:49:00.004-04:002010-04-07T22:21:32.566-04:00please grow, please grow...PLEASE?Come on already!!! I am feeling so impatient with my hair!!! Here's where I am at as of March 15th, 2010, about 6 weeks after my last chemo treatment.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S6IFyUr0uSI/AAAAAAAAAFI/ROBLkFN8frk/s1600-h/Head+Hair+3-15-10+face+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S6IFyUr0uSI/AAAAAAAAAFI/ROBLkFN8frk/s200/Head+Hair+3-15-10+face+1.jpg" vt="true" width="146" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S6IF5c3r-uI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/p2BS5gh1jbw/s1600-h/Head+Hair+3-15-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S6IF5c3r-uI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/p2BS5gh1jbw/s200/Head+Hair+3-15-10.jpg" vt="true" width="181" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S6IGB31I9sI/AAAAAAAAAFY/xEr80OghdpY/s1600-h/Head+Hair+3-15-10+side+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="162" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S6IGB31I9sI/AAAAAAAAAFY/xEr80OghdpY/s200/Head+Hair+3-15-10+side+1.jpg" vt="true" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S6IGKW7drGI/AAAAAAAAAFg/t3jKh4uTrE8/s1600-h/Head+Hair+3-15-10+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_skX6F3Yl61c/S6IGKW7drGI/AAAAAAAAAFg/t3jKh4uTrE8/s200/Head+Hair+3-15-10+back.jpg" vt="true" width="200" /></a></div>Victoria "Tory" DeWatershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15436563629475782243noreply@blogger.com0