LilyFestre-Mommy+Daddy+Baby...now on to Life!

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: Bobert
Date: 10 Jun 10 - 06:22 PM

Geeze Lousie, Michelle... It's 100% anxiety (anxious) and, tell ya' the truth, it is well deserved and a tad overdue... I mean, you been thru Hell and then being held up another week on yer last chemo is grounds for anxiety... This is exactly what it it and it will effect yer breathing, it can effect yer balance, it can make yer heart pound, it can make ya' sweat, ahhhhh, perspire... Now if you weren't going thru what you are going thru it would be called "anxiety disorder" but seein' as you are going thru this last lap thru Hell before gettin' the rest of healthy cancer-free life back, hey, I'd be concerned if you didn't have some anxiety... No make that, "alot" of anxiety...

Hang in there... All this crap will pass and you will have yer life back... Right around the corner...

B~

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: katlaughing
Date: 10 Jun 10 - 06:13 PM

Rest as easy as possible, Michelle, this will pass and it will be better before too long. Just one last idea which may help. Passed on from my biofeedback sessions: take some very rapid, short, shallow breaths, through your nose, then try to take a deeper breath. It may help. I know you want to stay as active as possible, but it sounds to me as though your body just wants you to stop so all of its energy can be concentrated in building the good stuff and obliterating the yucky stuff. Sorry if this is being repetitive, but the message seems pretty loud and clear from what I am reading. Rest and rest and rest.:-)

kat

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: LilyFestre
Date: 10 Jun 10 - 05:54 PM

Last night was bad. I feel like I can't get enough air. Pete asked me to explain and I couldn't find the words....very frustrating for us both. I ended up sleeping in my chair...laying down is uncomfortable to breathe.

I did go to my local Dr. today. She said my lungs sound fine. They did a pulse oxygen and it was 99 which is great. So. What's the problem? She thinks I am anxious. I DON'T FEEL ANXIOUS. I AM BEGINNING TO FEEL VERY PISSED OFF BECAUSE EVERYONE SAYS I'm ANXIOUS. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR. I feel like someone is stepping on my air hose. She said to take more Xanax. ARG! That makes me feel NOTHING and SLEEPY. )(*^&%#! %$#&^%(&^ I AM FRUSTRATED!!!!!!!!!!!

About the folic acid, I will ask on Tuesday when I see my oncologist. My hemoglobin is just under the wire for acceptable so I'm eating lots of protein. My friend Tracy gave me a protein drink today....100 calories, no sugar and 25 grams of protein in less than a cup of juice looking stuff. I have to try it.

EPO and Prokrit looks to be for hemoglobin issues too. They didn't really address the hemoglobin stuff, just said it's a bit low and can be helped with nutrition. They did bring up Neulasta but that's for helping white blood cells in the bone marrow and thankfully, those are at a normal level.

No nutrition or medication will help with platelets. My body will either step up and make some new platelets on it's own or I will have to have a transfusion. It's my understanding that my body will make more, I just have to give it the time (hence the week off from my chemo treatment).

So...today I went to see Tracy (needed to see her in the worst way), went to the doctor, had some lunch, walked around looking at maybe 6 pieces of real estate with my mom and sat down immediately in each house we went in. I am exhausted. I am not getting enough air. My body feels HEAVY. And I got a good look at myself sitting on a couch today....there was a mirror directly across from me....it still freaks me out to see myself...I don't look like ME at ALL. So. Now I'm home. I'm calling it a day. Tracy says sometimes you just have to be the cancer patient. Today, starting right now, I am. I'm tired and am giving in to it. Give me my drugs and let me rest. Keep me company and let me rest.
    I never, ever knew I could be this tired. Maybe I'm just too tired to take full breaths and that's my issue. I have no idea. I DO know that I do NOT feel anxious....I don't care WHAT they say.

PS. It's beautiful outside....sky is blue, temperature in the low 70s......and despite being so tired, I DID go out and enjoy the day....took multiple breaks but I DID ENJOY THE DAY!!!!!

Michelle

PSS. The heck with all this protein, what I really want is a doughnut. I rarely eat them but it is what I am craving.....good thing there aren't any in the house, I'd probably eat them all.

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: wysiwyg
Date: 10 Jun 10 - 11:43 AM

AKA Procrit-- you might have seen TV ads.

~S~

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: wysiwyg
Date: 10 Jun 10 - 11:41 AM

EPO is something they give to some patients: http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=7032

It is abused in sports but used in some cancer cases.

~Susan

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: katlaughing
Date: 10 Jun 10 - 10:37 AM

I have a terrible time with iron supplements and was told to quit taking them. My friend with many years as a medical professional, told me to start on folic acid tabs asap last summer when I was so anemic. She told me it would bring up my hemoglobin lots faster and safer than iron. It did. You might want to ask your docs about it. It is an over-the-counter vitamin supplement and in my experience, did a much, much better job than iron tabs and I was to the point where they were threatening me with a transfusion.

Also, have they checked your pulse oxygen? That's the little thing they put on the end of your finger with a digital gauge which will tell them how much oxygen you have in your blood. From what I remember, there is something about low blood oxygen and red blood cells which may contribute to breathless feelings. It's something easy to check and treatable.

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: Ebbie
Date: 10 Jun 10 - 09:56 AM

It wouldn't surprise me if one's body has its own little motor that is separate from the brain with which we are familiar. That little motor in your body is probably wondering what in the world is going on, it must feel like it's spinning its wheels in empty air. Or perhaps it is aware of the cancer that had invaded it and is grateful beyond senses that you pushed back. The process, however, may have cut loose its moorings for the moment while it tries to find just the right way to help.

Jus' sayin'. :)

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: LilyFestre
Date: 09 Jun 10 - 01:54 PM

Hey Kat,

I do not take folic acid specifically but I do take Vitron C which is an iron supplement with vitamin C for absorbtion...only iron I've ever had that doesn't make me sick to my stomache...been taking it since January.

Susan,

What is EPO?

I don't know if I had a panic attack or not...still feeling kinda short of breath...like I can't get quite enough air. Not an emergency but not enough either. Sleepy from Xanax. Dr. says my lungs sound clear so I wonder if the oxygen in my blood is low from the low hemoglobin.

I have no idea. I know it's not comfortable and kinda scarey.

Michelle

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Jun 10 - 01:45 PM

Michelle, do they have you taking any folic acid, specifically? It really brought my hemoglobin up last summer when I was having so much trouble with anemia...much better than adding iron which can be so tough on the system. I take one tab every morning just to be on the safe side since I am on coumadin.

Deep breaths, talk with us and 3D friends, pamper yourself and know we hold you in our hearts and thoughts.

luvyakat

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: wysiwyg
Date: 09 Jun 10 - 01:36 PM

The great thing about panic attacks (a great thing about panic attacks?!?!?!?!)--

is that they can only run so long before the physiologic systems auto-stop it. All the stuff we can do to calm them DOES help-- not saying don't do them-- and DOES shorten them.

But even if we forget, they do wind down to a slow stop.

Had you discussed EPO with them?

~Susan

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: LilyFestre
Date: 09 Jun 10 - 12:30 PM

Much love, strength, courage and support of those she loves to your friend!!!!! Support is absolutely imperative!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wish I knew how to express how much having this place to come to and collect good thoughts, prayers and love means to me.....and that I can access it 24/7.


Had myself a nice panic attack today. Called the clinic and was sure they were going to want me to come to the ER because I was feeling very short of breath.   Nope. Xanax and call a friend.

Pumping up the protein today in hopes of raising my hemoglobin, getting more oxygen in my blood.....pasta with more protein than chicken with milk, cheese and very lean beef added in.

Trying to relax myself and breathe....reminding myself that it's ok. I'm ok. I can do this. It's not an emergency. I just need to slow down and breathe.

Michelle

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: SINSULL
Date: 09 Jun 10 - 09:39 AM

An online pker buddy was just diagnosed with breast cancer. I suggested she drop by and read your thread Lily for some comfort and some inspiration.
Mary

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 08 Jun 10 - 10:54 AM

very good results.

and you enjoy your day!

sandra

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: LilyFestre
Date: 08 Jun 10 - 10:09 AM

((((((((((((((((Hugs to you Allison)))))))))))))))

I still don't have an appointment for next week as my Dr. is on vacation and there are a few snags that should be worked out by tomorrow morning. We are shooting for next Monday if at all possible.

I called about my CA-125 results as this test really is the MOST important test that indicates any sign on tumor growth. A normal reading is 35 or below. During my last cycle, mine was 17.9. Today they tell me it's 18.1. Normal fluctuation from the test itself and they said it looks very good and not to worry. HOORAY!

It's chilly here this morning so I am puttering around to stay warm and wearing one of my many beautiful handmade caps, waiting for the sun to warm up the house.

*big breath*

Enjoy your day!

Michelle

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 08 Jun 10 - 08:34 AM

Everyone is telling you such lovely, encouraging things, dear one. Believe them- it's all true! I don't have any words of wisdom at the moment, so I'll just offer a hug and a shoulder should the tears keep coming (I know all about tears- I'm another one with the over-functioning ducts!).

A very wise woman I know and love once told the New England Convocation (where she was a keynote speaker) that she would probably cry as she told her story, but not to worry, she knew tears were a blessing. Amen!

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: wysiwyg
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 08:33 PM

Ask Father Cootiesniffer what to do when the spirit is willing but the body just can't keep up.... it doesn't matter what my determination level is. My body essential is give me the finger.   How does a body in that shape keep ones spirits up?

What he would tell you is:

... that your body, your mind, and your spirit are all one... even tho they do not always FEEL like one, and

... that "can do this" is not about physical ability in any one given moment but about the longer view, and

... that in the end you can do this, and you ARE doing this, and you will continue to [be able to] do this.


He would (will) tell you that the down times are PART of doing it, not evidence that you cannot do it. (It's HOW "we" all "do it.") The Grace of God helps us endure it, whether we ask or not, but sometimes more noticeably so when we direct our attention there.

As in, "it's a good day because...."

Dammit, you can do this! :~) And you have CS's cell number. He will not be surprised (or too busy) if you call whenever you need to.

~Susan
CC: CS

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: SINSULL
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 08:25 PM

I get weepy all the time, Michelle. Always keep a tissue handy to wipe away the mascara smears.

I thought of you last week. One of my weepy moments. The company CEO told me about a woman who was able to take advantage of free care at Mass General through our health insurance. It saved my thyroid and my voice about two years ago.

She was told that her breast biopsy was positive and the tumor possibly her whole breast had to be removed. She got the news from her family doctor. In shock, she asked "Am I going to die?" She wanted to hear some encouraging news.
Her doctor, a woman, responded that she would probably die of it.
Can you imagine anyone being so incredibly unkind? A young woman with small children being told that she was going to die of beast cancer...when even I know that the recovery rates for early diagnosis are excellent.

At this point in the story I started wiping the mascara.
Fortunately, Patient Advocates offered her a free second opinion in Boston and free surgery if she chose to use the Boston facilities. They confirmed the cancer diagnosis and explained that they are experts on this surgery - the team did only mastectomies. They also assured her that her cancer was treatable and she would survive. A little over two years later she is fully recovered and besides regular check-ups lives a normal healthy life.

LOL Her doctor like mine was very put out that she decided on a second opinion and surgery out of state.

Skilled physicians with compassion can make miracles. You have them. Keep trusting. Come December this will all be over and you can focus on Baby Obediah or is it Cletus?

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: Bobert
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 08:14 PM

Okay, here's the real deal... One week from today yer platlets will be fine and one week from today you'll take that last step to the rest of your life which, BTW, will be cancer free and long and fulfilling... Until then, if you wanta cry then cry... If you want chocolate ice cream then send hubby out for it... If you want to just set up a stoll in yer veggie garden and pull weeds, do it... Hey, this is yer special times, Michelle so might as well make the best of it 'cause...

...when this all over, I mean "all" over, it's back to work and gettin' on with the rest of yer life...

In other words??? This too shall pass...

Meanwhile, prayers of peace to get you thru this last lap...

B~

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 07:39 PM

nuffin' wrong with your kind of crying. Your body is being hit with very heavy chemicals - both poisons & good healing chemicals - & as you said it needs a rest.

I do far too much crying at most inappropriate times - usually when reading books, including novels! There are some books I can't take out to read on the train or bus 'cos I know my eyes will fill up. Ok when it's some sad piece of history or news item, but not so good when "all" I'm reading is a novel, & they're usually light pieces of fluff, about murder in a Stately House, or in the mean streets, not Nobel prize winning books.

sending more love & hugs

sandra

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: LilyFestre
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 07:14 PM

Kinda interesting how this really highlights how the ME and the BODY are two separate things....very separate. I can listen to my body when it needs something but how come it can't listen to ME when *I* need it to do something?!?!?!?

Stubborn ass.

Michelle

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: LilyFestre
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 07:02 PM

Bear in mind I'm exhausted and do not mean this to come across as being bitchy.

My body can't do this...at least for now. It's rebelling. It's screaming that it's tired and can't keep up with basic bodily functions. :O

And the crying...........I know it's hard on the people I see every day. I cry at everythig. EVERYTHING. Good. Bad. Stupid commercials. People I don't know. I am a wreck and just can't help it. Is it good for me? Probably or I'd explode. I cried yesterday because I didn't look at something Pete wanted to share with me before I left and because I didn't kiss the dogs goodbye. I forgot. :( I forgot to give my babies a kiss. Made me feel like total shit.

Hopefully this week will give my bones some time to regenerate the platelets I need. If they continue to fall, there will be a transfusion in my future. Creeps me out but that is the only thing that can be done. At least they can do it through my port and no IVs needed.

That's another thing. I asked about how long do I have to wait to get my port out and was told that it needed to stay in for awhile after chemo. That suits me just fine as I was thinking that I'd like to just have a break from all the medical stuff....set a date a few months down the road and just let my body rest before they cut me back open for more healing. Only thing is, they have to access the port every 30 days to flush it out with saline....not really a big deal.

Anyway. Ramble. Ramble. Ramble. I'm trying to stay awake to see Pete when he gets home.

Ask Father Cootiesniffer what to do when the spirit is willing but the body just can't keep up....it doesn't matter what my determination level is. My body essential is give me the finger.   How does a body in that shape keep ones spirits up?

Michelle

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: wysiwyg
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 06:45 PM

So I get it that it's ok to cry but I'm sure it gets old for everyone around me.

If nothing else, this cancer is going to teach you the difference between useful crying and not-useful crying. Guess which kind you have been doing? (How else do you think you are getting through it all?)

And BTW no one I know of around here finds that your crying "gets old." :~) Maybe there was someone in your life once upon a time who acted that way..... not too many, tho, nowadays, I bet.... if you look around when you do it. See any smiles? That is people approving it, being delighted with you in it, and/or being glad for you growing IN the tears.

Damn it, you can do this. :~) Somebuddy I know said that once. :~) DAYum, mayum!

~Susan

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: LilyFestre
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 05:37 PM

About the greens....yep. My hemoglobin was on the very low side, just about not acceptable. So I'm pumping up the iron and protein. I can DO something about the hemoglobin with my diet but not the platelets. The Dr. said that it's just that the carboplatin has built up so much in my body that inside my bones, the bone marrow is struggling to keep up. It dropped 130 points in 3 weeks. Maybe this is why my legs are still bothering me...especially in the larger bones and joints. Maybe why I'm so emotional too. I had a feeling today wasn't the end of the story.

Of course I'm disappointed but as long as the cancer is not spreading and my CA-125 levels are good, I need to just find my way around this. I told the Dr. I cry all the time and he said, well yeah.....there's a lot going on and to not worry about the crying. So I get it that it's ok to cry but I'm sure it gets old for everyone around me.

So I had this horrific headache about 3 seconds after he said I would have to come home. I asked if I could take Advil. He said to stay away from all headache meds...while they won't make my platelets drop anymore, they will stall or slow the growth down. He told me to take my Percoset for the headache. Headache disappeared VERY fast. I'm exhausted......tired from being disappointed, all the tears, the road trip and the drugs....to be expected, I'm sure.

Also, my blood sugar levels have been over 500 all day up until now. I just checked it and it's down to about 380. That alone will wipe a body out. Took some more insulin, emailed my honey and told him that it's going to be a soup night or fend for himself as I just don't have it in me to cook tonight.

I did play with the nurse who accessed my port but decided to wait until I had my lab results to play with everyone else. Good thing I waited. I'd rather play with them when I can smile too. I did take them all goodies though and got my share of hugs. OH and they had some PHENOMINAL art work up done by various cancer patients and their caregivers....some that made me cry (of course I cried) and others that made my heart smile....several of bald women..some dancing that I loved. I took photos of them and will post them soon. Wish I could have a copy of some of them....no artists name given which I think is too bad. Art is all about what touches YOU and theirs certainly did. I picked up information to enter for next years.....not sure if they accept photos...if not, why not try my hand at painting or drawing.....it might just do me some good even if it's not fit for anyone to see.

Thank you for the hugs, love and words of encouragement. I really need them today.

Love to all,

Michelle

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: jacqui.c
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 04:59 PM

((((((((Michelle))))))))

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: LilyFestre
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 04:47 PM

I am just so....so....

>:( and :(

I asked if they were going to send me home today or go head and try the treatment....platelets at 77. The Dr. said, "The idea is to CURE you....you know that right? Cure you....NOT kill you." Good to know.

*Big sigh*

Mihelle

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: jacqui.c
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 03:22 PM

Ah well, we're still here and pulling for you. This just gives you an extra week to decide on that special celebration, doesn't it!

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: wysiwyg
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 02:19 PM

Damn it, Fr. CS is right! :~)

~Susan

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 02:07 PM

ok.. so they set the hurdle a little farther along the track... just means you get some more time to build up to that last leap.


big hug... coming your way.

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: SINSULL
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 01:15 PM

I am amazed you haven't had to postpone any previous treatments. The chemo is working and it is screwing up your body. Rest. Recover. Go back when you are ready.
Did you get to play with your toys?
Mary

Subject: RE: LilyFestre-one more week then last chemo coming up
From: Bobert
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 11:15 AM

Eat a bunch of spinich fresh from the garden, Michelle... Lotta good stuff in their to restore whatever needs restoring... Beet tops good, too... Greens, greens, greens...

Yeah, I know this is a bummer... Think of it this way... It's like a caution flag toward the end of a race... Yer still in 1st place and soon as they drop the green flag it's one lousy lap to the checkered flag...

(Womenz don't understand all that techincal racin' stuff, Boberdz...)

Yes, they do... Especially Pennsylvania womenz where race tracks outnumber libraries... Jus' funnin'...

Everything is going to be just fine, Michelle... I promise... Now go pick some greens...

B~

Subject: RE: LilyFestre -On The Road Again-last chemo coming up
From: LilyFestre
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 10:32 AM

No treatment today.

My platelets are too low and they are sending me home.

They will try again next week.

It does not mean the cancer spread. It means that my body is worn out.

:(

Michelle

Subject: RE: LilyFestre -On The Road Again-last chemo coming up
From: Bobert
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 08:14 AM

Last lap!!! Yeah, it has been gruelin' but you made it, Michelle...

Good job, girl!!!

B~

Subject: RE: LilyFestre -On The Road Again-last chemo coming up
From: SINSULL
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 07:52 AM

It's a little like having a root canal done, Michelle. You dread it. You have to go through with it. And while you are in the chair you are focussing on tomorrow's breakfast when it will be over.

It's almost over.

Hang in there girl.
Mary

Subject: RE: LilyFestre -On The Road Again-last chemo coming up
From: LilyFestre
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 07:13 AM

Well my many dear friends,

   TODAY is THE DAY!!!!!!! I am up, showered, dressed, glucose count done (over 500....steroids...ugh), insulin taken, morning meds and pre-chemo steriods sitting beside me ready to be taken. Mission to Dunken Doughnut complete with 100 munchkins for my many nurses, lab techs, administrative people, etc. Fresh eggs and chives for the Dr. and his nurse. Silly gear for later in the day to make every one laugh...will post photos later.

    Please think positive thoughts for great hemoglobin, white blood cell and platelet counts. Most importantly, a low CA-125 count.

*Big Breath*

Father Cootiesniffer told me at the beginning of all this, before my surgery even, that "DAMN IT. I CAN do this." I am carrying that thought with me as well as several of yours. God willing, this should be the end of the chemo treatments.

Please. Please. Please.

Love to you all!

Michelle

Subject: RE: LilyFestre -On The Road Again-last chemo coming up
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 07 Jun 10 - 05:07 AM

Still here with you, Dollbaby, cheering you on over that last hurdle!

Subject: RE: LilyFestre -On The Road Again-last chemo coming up
From: gnu
Date: 06 Jun 10 - 05:55 PM

Keep up the good work, darlin.

Subject: RE: LilyFestre -On The Road Again-last chemo coming up
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Jun 10 - 05:38 PM

Hunker down for the hard part, and sail through on the other side a winner! Keep your chin up!

SRS

Subject: RE: LilyFestre - Only one more chemo to go!!
From: SINSULL
Date: 06 Jun 10 - 12:58 PM

I hope the next two weeks fly by for you. Then celebrate however and where ever you choose. You have earned it.
Love to you and yours,
SINS

Subject: RE: LilyFestre - Only one more chemo to go!!
From: LilyFestre
Date: 06 Jun 10 - 09:40 AM

Packing to go....6 more hours and we'll be on the road.

*humming On the Road Again....*

Also, 24 hours from now, my port will accessed, all tubing hooked up and I will know the results of the lab work.

Michelle

Subject: RE: LilyFestre - Only one more chemo to go!!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 06 Jun 10 - 06:55 AM

relaxing, laughter and an evening of good company - sounds perfect

sandra

Subject: RE: LilyFestre - Only one more chemo to go!!
From: LilyFestre
Date: 05 Jun 10 - 10:19 AM

Allison,

    I think that idea will be a long time coming but in the meantime we (my chemo partner, Mom and I) are going to order in a pizza and play games all night in front of the fire. Just relaxing, laughter and an evening of good company...really, what more can a body ask for? I'm looking forward to this).

Subject: RE: LilyFestre - Only one more chemo to go!!
From: LilyFestre
Date: 05 Jun 10 - 10:06 AM

I found it!!!

It's a fun song!!!!! YAY!

Miss Maybelle

Wish I could be there in person!!!!

Michelle

Subject: RE: LilyFestre - Only one more chemo to go!!
From: Bobert
Date: 05 Jun 10 - 09:25 AM

Well, Michelle, you ain't gonna know this song so ya' might have to Google up R.L. Burnside and "Miss Maybelle" 'cause that's the song I'm gonna dedicate to you...

"Oh, Miss Maybelle, let me be your hoppin' frog
Don't wnat to drink no muddy water
Don't wnat to sleep in no hollow log
Oh, Miss Maybelle, let me be your hoppin' frog...

Sorry to put that "hoppin' frog" in yer head... Seems that every time I do that song someone comes up to me and says they can't get "hoppin' frog" outta their head... Hey, could be worse... See my "Can Turkeys Mate with Frogs" thread... lol...

B~

Subject: RE: LilyFestre - Only one more chemo to go!!
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 05 Jun 10 - 09:11 AM

Beautiful montage my dear- what a great project.

Let us know how you choose to celebrate!

Subject: RE: LilyFestre - Only one more chemo to go!!
From: LilyFestre
Date: 04 Jun 10 - 08:08 PM

SRS...there is a nice walk along the river...maybe that's something I should do!

And Bobert.....wish I could be there....you'll let me know what song you pick, won't you?

:) Michelle

Subject: RE: LilyFestre - Only one more chemo to go!!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 04 Jun 10 - 06:38 PM

Isn't it nice to be able to spend the time contemplating your cancer survivor victory lap around some town or place or event? Even if you're at a loss for ideas right now, something will come to you!

Keep your chin up for this last round!

SRS

Subject: RE: LilyFestre - Only one more chemo to go!!
From: Bobert
Date: 04 Jun 10 - 06:24 PM

"You've come a long way, baby" and so me thinks a pizza party sound like a nice way to celebrate yer victory lap...

Ol' hillbilly cheering ya on... I 'm playing at the Greater Washington Folk Festival in DC on Sunday and I'll sho nuff dedicate a song to ya'...

B~

Subject: RE: LilyFestre - Only one more chemo to go!!
From: LilyFestre
Date: 04 Jun 10 - 05:27 PM

Today I picked up some fun stuff. A ridiculous foam nurse's hat, thick white framed sunglasses, two flower leis (lays?)...one in teal for ovarian cancer and the other purple for cancer in general. I also found this neat gizmo for blowing up balloons...looks like a very large syringe....uh huh...I'm gonna have me some fun with the nurses!!!

Just about have everything ready here to go for Round #6...laundry is (almost) done, things are picked up, there's food in the house...etc. You get the idea. Also, this time we are picking up my chemo gal pal for the ride down and an overnight (she gets her own room as I learned 3 is just too much for me to take during treatment)....but we're planning a pizza and games for the night. I told her I wanted to do something to celebrate but couldn't come up with anything. She said she feels the same way and that for now, just getting through it and the 2 weeks after is plenty to think about. I agree. We are both exhausted but looking forward to seeing each other on Sunday!

Michelle

Subject: RE: LilyFestre - Only one more chemo to go!!
From: katlaughing
Date: 31 May 10 - 01:25 PM

I think going to the Getaway would be a grand way to really celebrate, though it isn't immediate enough for the last of the chemo celebration. How about getting a ride in a hit air balloon? Or, visiting the largest interesting city near you, taking in a theatre show, have a swanky dinner, etc.? These are just random ideas, I am tossing out. Organising a local walk for survivors? Have a celebration in a park and get the media to get the word out to others going through the same thing. Start a mentoring program for survivors like yourself to "buddy-up" with those who are just starting that journey. Probably already some of these things in place, huh?

I read an article awhile back about how one of the world's largest supplier of stock photos has a contract with flikr to constantly search their photos for likely ones they could sell. They contact each photographer and pay for the use of the photos chosen; they don't care if one is an amateur or pro. One woman is now a steady supplier; said she sometimes makes enough to pay her monthly mortgage, sometimes just enough for a nice dinner out, but still a constant and wow, what a way to get your photos noticed. You could even build a show, etc. with that kind of credential, imo. I've sold several photos to media. IT can be really fun.

Good luck with whatever you decided to do.

kat

Subject: RE: LilyFestre - Only one more chemo to go!!
From: Tannywheeler
Date: 31 May 10 - 01:24 PM

How wonderful to see reports of good, fun stuff you are doing. Probably true if you keep at it you may build up your stamina. Hope so. Keep enjoying life. I don't have a porch. Sit & chat & enjoy it a few extra minutes for me, please. Tw