tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31413960054884392592011-07-07T17:35:16.219-04:00This is not MY story, it is the story of my breast cancer. My breast cancer is but a part of my wonderful and exciting life. I was a survivor even before I was diagnosed. I won't EVEN consider the alternative.... :) Now I realize I am also a Warrior.Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.comBlogger751100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-69940533490977815672009-08-24T18:00:00.002-04:002009-08-25T00:29:09.358-04:00

Hello! I wasn't aware how much time had passed since I've updated.  I haven't even been aware of just how much time has passed at all!  I guess post-op and pain meds can do that to a person.  So prepare for a long post... Most important thing 1st - Pathology report is ALL clear!  No signs of cancer!!!  Yay! Hooray! Thank God! Yippee!!!  :0)  Breaking free of the hospital - I was released from

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-197340730492861002009-08-16T20:19:00.003-04:002009-08-16T21:06:50.535-04:00

Ow! Lots of pain today, mostly in the belly but also in my back & hips from being in bed for far too long the past several days. I am up & about, walking pretty regularly and sitting in chairs almost as much as in the bed. I have been blessed with so many visitors, beautiful cards, brightly colored balloons and lots & lots of goodies arriving in baskets. I'm a bit irritable and the way the

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-86085865864450250652009-08-15T23:35:00.002-04:002009-08-16T00:15:03.202-04:00

Yay!!! From tum-tum to ta-ta I am doing SO good! Yes, I am blogging on Day 2! I even checked out Facebook and GMail on Day 1! :0) So today has been very busy. It started off with my surgeons checking out my sites this morning and removing the dressing from the tummy portion - the lower tummy portion that is. There are no other words to describe my surgeon's immediate reaction other than

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-27580469762587175082009-08-13T00:39:00.004-04:002009-08-13T00:53:24.866-04:00

The recliner has been moved to the bedroom, the tray table sits next to it, a basket of magazines lay under the table, and another basket full of goodies sits next to that. My bag is packed with sleeveless, button up jammies for when I can wear them, snacks for when I can eat them and things to help pass the time when I'm not sleeping. The clock is ticking, the alarm set, just in case I do

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-14080064021870731092009-08-09T22:44:00.002-04:002009-08-09T23:08:33.290-04:00

My tummy. Well, not really. Not at all actually. Trust me, mine does not look nearly as cute or as lovable as this one...at least not right now. I am healing well from the delay surgery and soon there will be no more of a delay. The procedure is in 4 days, and yes, I am counting down. Last Thursday night I said to my self, this is the last Thursday night that I will ever have this breast.I

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-78524696814327961642009-07-26T06:02:00.001-04:002009-07-26T06:03:29.234-04:00

My surgery was Tuesday and all went well, although not quite what I had expected. During pre-op the week prior my surgeon told me that I would require a "pre" procedure called a vascular delay. This initial surgery would prep me for the mastectomy and tram flap reconstruction by temporarily clamping off my femoral artery, forcing it to swell so that when the transplant occurs it would provide

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-2034428169975194142009-01-05T17:46:00.004-05:002009-01-05T18:46:40.498-05:00

My dad is not necessarily a man of many sentimental words,but when he speaks from his heart, he never fails to say just theright thing.I have a chalk board in my kitchen that my mom & dad always leavea note on at the end of each visit. He created this poem and gave methese words when they were preparing to leave after New Years...A Father's Poem2 January 2009The papers we burned at the end of '

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-40769941013597907612009-01-02T00:05:00.000-05:002009-01-05T00:21:09.079-05:00

I started this year with a cold, one whose germs touched many of my family members over the holidays but I m not complaining. As a matter of fact, I am happy to have a cold, for you see, starting off 2009 with a cold sure beats starting off 2008 with a breast cancer diagnosis. I have beat cancer's butt and I will undoubtedly easily kick this colds butt!Reflecting on 2008...As I look back on

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-55592951987051409532008-11-01T18:54:00.000-04:002009-01-05T19:02:15.498-05:00

Fair warning - this may be a little too descriptive...the burn WAS repulsive... Maybe I have been a night owl long before I or anyone else in my family realized it. I suppose I've also always been rather independent, believing I could do things all by myself. I was 5 and my sisters had just snugly and safely tucked me in bed. Having me out of their hair they went downstairs to have some

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-37519978115938636452008-10-21T06:14:00.001-04:002008-10-21T06:14:00.529-04:00

"People should be afraid of the cancer, not the mammogram." ~ Nancy Reagan

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-40084843629070829422008-10-20T20:02:00.002-04:002008-10-20T21:44:28.867-04:00

Boo!!! HA!HA!HA! How's that for a trick? Trick or Treat Day is coming and I haven't blogged in awhile so time for lots of ghosts - oops! I meant posts! ;0) I am so very honored that there are some people who check my blog quite regularly, so for those of you, I hope that you find my sudden burst in blogging and posting a treat! ;0)I have also chronicled the many steps in my journey

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-828257450463027992008-10-02T20:06:00.003-04:002008-10-21T00:19:43.117-04:00

The Pink Ribbon stands for friendships,too many to count.For strength no disease can ever surmount.It celebrates grace in the shadow of pain,Bringing us together in an unbreakable chain.A symbol of hope and our goal, which is pure,Never to rest until we find a cure.(author unknown)

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-6859584904723475892008-10-01T20:04:00.001-04:002008-10-20T21:48:49.085-04:00

It's October and this month means very much to me for many reasons. First of all, it's breast Cancer Awareness Month. If you are reading this on my blog then you are already familiar with information regarding breast cancer in general and specifically my breast cancer. But don't let that be enough. Do something for the breasts, wether they be yours, a loved one's or all of them for that

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-37643300372114022842008-09-30T20:08:00.002-04:002008-10-21T00:22:54.601-04:00

No, I don't see everything through a green glow.It's now been nearly a week since I completed my radiation treatment and this first "down time" in 6 and 1/2 weeks has allowed me to reflect on the experience.By first appearance, the radiation oncology waiting room looks to be a very plain, ordinary, and even dull place. But don't let this first impression fool. This is actually one of the most

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-72882697150877522632008-09-26T18:13:00.001-04:002009-01-05T18:41:51.994-05:00

After 34 treatments, one every day for the past 6 and 1/2 weeks this was my last day. The day didn't necessarily feel any different starting off or on my way to treatment. Not much was different once I arrived at the clinic, although I was beginning to feel some excited energy.I changed into my gown, laid on the table and assumed the position as I had 33 times before. Once on the table I

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-45380972990194732102008-09-25T23:06:00.000-04:002008-10-20T23:08:31.033-04:00

...kickin' some breast cancer booty! And I did! ;0) Here's to fighting like a girl and showing cancer just who the sissy is and who the boss is!!!

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-41386084986536581982008-09-22T20:30:00.002-04:002008-10-21T00:28:02.204-04:00

I didn't often wear a scarf or hat and I never wore a wig while beautifully bald from chemo but on occasion when I did I was blessed enough to receive compliments on how I wore my scarf. Tying a scarf in a fashionable manner isn't as easy as you may think before the initial attempt so I searched online and found this "how to" which helped me. Hopefully someone else will find it useful also. "

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-68030024760419721772008-09-21T20:26:00.001-04:002008-10-20T21:06:41.279-04:00

My first few days of radiation were the worst - unbearable in fact. So much so that by Monday, after only having received 3 treatments, I requested to see the Radiation Oncologist and asked him what the chance of recurrence was if I chose not to continue with therapy. His answer was a startling 35% and he strongly encouraged me to continue with treatment. Positioning of your body is

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-73183131463930408802008-09-11T20:12:00.002-04:002008-10-20T22:15:52.706-04:00

Every moment is a choice. I'm learning so much from this journey of medicine, faith and healing but one lesson stands above all... I’ve learned that every single moment, I have a choice to make. In every moment I can choose to worry about a future I can nor predict, or I can choose to revel

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-74692024546078133832008-09-05T22:21:00.000-04:002008-10-20T22:24:23.091-04:00

Laughter is still the best medicine! :0)

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-42010953622262595492008-08-30T20:00:00.000-04:002008-10-20T23:24:26.269-04:00

A few of the many things I won't miss about chemotherapy.

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-49368622785288826712008-08-30T19:36:00.006-04:002009-01-05T20:02:12.187-05:00

For years now I've seen people wearing those little yellow wrist bands that read "LIVESTRONG" . Until recently the most I knew was that it had to do with Lance Armstrong but I never really understood what it meant or what the whole LIVESTRONG challenge was about.On August 24th, 2008, I, along with other team mates of Team Heather's Fellowship participated in the Philadelphia LIVESTRONG Challenge

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-71184346353682302832008-08-25T11:50:00.001-04:002008-10-21T00:31:14.055-04:00

My medical oncologist, Dr. Mo on my last day of chemo treatment. Note that I was sure to include the word treatment after last day of chemo. The affects will be around for awhile. I have heard that it takes up to a year after treatment to return to your "normal" self, but since I was never quite "normal" prior to chemo we'll see how I do! ;0)My doctor was fantastic, no, he was phenomenal.

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-22509089249676740442008-08-24T13:45:00.000-04:002008-10-21T00:10:42.289-04:00

Peripherally inserted central catheterFrom Wikipedia, the free encyclopediaA peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC or PIC line) is a form of intravenous access that can be used for a prolonged period of time, e.g. for long chemotherapy regimens...First described in 1975,[1] it is an alternative to subclavian lines, internal jugular lines or femoral lines which have higher rates of

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-16619947840059080992008-08-18T00:51:00.001-04:002008-08-18T00:52:27.719-04:00

My first visit to the oncology department wasn't that all that long ago in terms of time but if based on experience it was a lifetime ago. As I sat in the waiting room waiting to be called in by my oncologist I had no idea just how much my life was about to change. It began with my reaction to my first view of the treatment rooms and the patients lined up in the recliners receiving their chemo

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-89832347986857477842008-08-18T00:49:00.001-04:002008-08-18T00:51:09.099-04:00

With the completion of my chemo and the start of my radiation there is a lot of reason for celebration and excitement. Heck - I've even threw myself a party! I am thankful for many things. But when it comes to answering the question that has been posed to me countless times over the past several weeks, "How are you?", I'm not quite sure what the right, honest or best answer is. I haven't

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-25937429215426551862008-08-18T00:47:00.001-04:002008-08-18T00:48:34.440-04:00

"The radio is burning me and my eyebrashes have fallen out!"Evidence that chemo brain is still in effect!

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-69449870398909627192008-08-18T00:42:00.000-04:002008-08-18T00:43:24.403-04:00

Bolus, a flabby, rubbery material, is used in certain situations to “fool” the radiation beam so it will deposit the maximum dose on the skin surface instead of a fraction of an inch deeper, as it would otherwise. Therefore, a skin reaction is almost inevitable in this scenario. Bolus is usually incorporated into radiation therapy for skin cancers or when a surgical scar, such as a mastectomy

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-85535934890750279232008-08-18T00:22:00.002-04:002008-08-18T00:25:15.970-04:00

The following information has been extracted from various locations on the internet:Treatment PlanningBefore radiation treatments begin, you will go through a treatment planning process called "simulation". This is necessary to confirm that the treatment machine will treat the exact area requiring the radiation (called the treatment port). A map of the area on your body where the radiation is to

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-76545661303853226552008-08-18T00:17:00.003-04:002008-08-18T00:22:01.322-04:00

How Radiation WorksRadiation therapy — also called radiotherapy — is a highly targeted, highly effective local treatment recommended in conjunction with a lumpectomy to destroy cancer cells in the breast that may stick around after surgery. Radiation therapy may be externally or internally delivered, both on an outpatient basis. The most common radiation treatment for breast cancer is external

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-1433503082709147552008-07-20T21:13:00.003-04:002008-11-13T01:26:39.055-05:00

It's Sunday night, 1 day shy of 3 weeks after my last chemo treatment. If I were facing chemo yet again tomorrow I would have already had the first of 2 required doses of steroids in preparation for tomorrow. Instead, I'm preparing for what I hope to be a restful night's sleep so that I can go back to work tomorrow!!! This may be my favorite blog posting yet! :0)

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-76266261929278461712008-07-20T01:29:00.003-04:002008-11-13T01:26:39.161-05:00

I am a SURVIVOR, but I am more than that. I am a WARRIOR. My battle with breast cancer isn't over, nor will it ever be. Because this cancer has invaded my body once I now have to remain ever vigilant, even hyper-vigilant of it's recurrence or the invasion of a new cancer.I'll be quite honest, my fear of recurrence is FAR greater than any fears I had with my initial breast cancer diagnosis. I

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-90648158817353384882008-07-19T11:18:00.001-04:002008-11-13T01:26:39.263-05:00

"During chemo, you're more tired than you've ever been.  It's like a cloud passing over the sun, and suddenly you're out.  You don't know how you'll answer the door when your groceries are delivered.  But you also find that you're stronger than you've ever been.  You're clear.  Your mortality is at optimal distance, not up so close that it obscures everything else, but close enough to give you

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-33090648979490956532008-07-18T12:10:00.001-04:002008-11-13T01:26:39.384-05:00

Funny title, but no kidding about the chemo brain (mild cognitive impairment). It really is the oddest thing to be in the middle of a conversation and all of a sudden you find that you are desperately and unsuccesfully searching for the next word which should be rolling off your tongue. Instead the conversation goes something like this, "you know, the stuff that you put on the thing with the

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-53385733183501961492008-07-17T19:18:00.005-04:002008-11-13T01:26:39.798-05:00

What: Celebrate Life! When: August 2ndWhere: Our HouseWho: Everyone!!! Friends, Family, Friends & their family :0)Why: Life is Good - Let’s celebrate it !(AKA chemo is over and socail life can begin again !!!)Time(s): 5:00 - Open House/BBQ This is a time to come visit and not worry about what to do with the kids -

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-87233926765960774692008-07-10T03:39:00.002-04:002008-11-13T01:26:39.933-05:00

Yes, I know my voice mail is often full and I realize that I have not been very good at returning calls, especially in a timely manner. (Mind you, this wasn't necessarily one of my most endearing qualities BEFORE the cancer!) ;0) I haven't kept up with my blog as I had envisioned or as some of you have wished. Although grateful for the invites, I have had to pass up far too many opportunities

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-41178428630911999152008-07-10T03:31:00.003-04:002008-11-13T01:26:40.144-05:00

What was I thinking???

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-38806378475897539982008-07-10T03:27:00.002-04:002008-11-13T01:26:40.316-05:00

"People should be afraid of the cancer, not the mammogram." ~ Nancy Reagan"An individual doesn’t get cancer, a family does." ~ Terry Tempest Williams"Cancer is not for sissies." ~ Suzanne Somers"Cancer got me over unimportant fears, like getting old." ~ Olivia Newton-John"As a cancer survivor, I am very aware of how many wasted minutes I don't have. The surest way to waste what is left of your

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-75304905504654582102008-07-10T03:24:00.000-04:002008-07-10T03:25:50.424-04:00

WILL.Simply, honestly and completely put, Will.His humor.His positive attitude.His support.His caretaking.And last but certainly by immeasurable amount, not least, his patience with me.

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-64925045593543738712008-07-10T03:21:00.002-04:002008-11-13T01:26:40.511-05:00

"There are angels on this earth and they come in subtle forms." ~ Lance ArmstrongI was at the chemo clinic getting my picc line cleaned when my subtle form of an angel appeared. I'd done a relatively good job of keeping my spirits up and maintaining my positive attitude up until that particular day but admittedly, it was all beginning to take it's toll one me and maybe it showed. I don't know

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-39056345173073504652008-07-10T03:18:00.002-04:002008-11-13T01:26:40.638-05:00

I'm perplexed. I usually have very good manners which leads me to say and do the right thing when things are given to me. And in keeping with that I have said my "thank you's" for the many things I have received during my treatment such as the cards, encouraging notes/emails, flowers, casseroles, even pj's and slippers. What I'm not sure what to do with is all the crap chemo has given me along

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-84550707344255599692008-07-10T03:15:00.003-04:002008-11-13T01:26:40.759-05:00

Shortly after my diagnosis, unbeknownst to me, a friend of ours recommended Will read a book entitled, Help Me Live; 20 Things People With Cancer Want You to Know. I don't know if it is based on insight gained from the book or simply because of the incredibly wonderful loving person that he is, but one thing is for certain, Will has helped me live.I could and perhaps even should go on and on

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-82567341688197553072008-07-10T03:14:00.000-04:002008-07-10T03:15:23.549-04:00

It's an unfortunate fact of life that nearly everyone we meet has been affected by some type of cancer in some way. Once cancer touches us it affects us. It may mold us, completely reshape us, tear us down, soften us or harden us. In some cases it stirs a passion within. And in this particular case it embodied 2 special women with both compassion and empathy and has led them to reach out in

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-7048113489449220372008-07-10T03:13:00.001-04:002008-11-13T01:26:40.969-05:00

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-91997330593450716622008-07-10T03:12:00.002-04:002008-11-13T01:26:41.068-05:00

I've been perusing through some other breast cancer blog sites and quite honestly, sometimes I'm surprised at what I come across. I realize that everyone handles things in their own way and on their own terms but yet I can't help but wonder how some people make it through what has to be one of the most difficult times in your life with an attitude that is "less than positive". For example, this

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-29259290893656137482008-07-10T03:11:00.000-04:002008-07-10T03:12:22.761-04:00

(Order is strictly mood based!)*You actually get to think "It's All About Me" and it really is!*You find out just how many people love in in so many ways.*You truly do get a different perspective on life (make it a good thing)*You can eat whatever you want when you do feel like eating and then blame it on the steroids (Soon to be transferred over to the worst list!)*The exhaustion forces your

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-17874790674994687082008-06-08T08:41:00.003-04:002008-11-13T01:26:41.201-05:00

A great big "thank you!" to all those who supported "Tammy's Ta-Ta's" in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer which was held in Washington D.C. on May 3rd & 4th. There were a total of 3,500 registered walkers participants who raised over $8.1 million for local, regional and national breast cancer organizations. Team Tammy's Ta-Ta's did an amazing job of raising a combined total of $8,060!!! Will

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-34466685830604596702008-06-08T07:45:00.003-04:002008-11-13T01:26:41.469-05:00

Today officially marks my half way point through chemo. 6 weeks have passed and in 6 more weeks I will have completed my chemotherapy treatment. Admittedly I have not done much in the way of keeping people up to date (blogging) throughout this first half of my treatment but for that matter I have not done much of anything during these past 6 weeks. I am often left with no other choice than to

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-92094947938601106412008-05-18T08:46:00.002-04:002008-11-13T01:26:41.653-05:00

It's not all about me, ok, well, it still is here on my blog but this time it is about more than my ta-ta's. I'm about to "toot my own horn" rather loudly, so stand back! Technically I'll let the press handle my PR for me! :0)On Friday, May 16th, I was honored by receiving the President's Volunteer Service Award at the White House (EEOB)."ARLINGTON, Va. – An Air National Guard member was

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-91735003762425712662008-05-13T21:07:00.002-04:002008-06-04T01:55:45.690-04:00

This is it. This is the last day I will have my hair as I have known it, and the first day of the way I will come to know not having it. It's the day I have expected, anticipated and dreaded. Regardless, it's inevitable and so be it.My hair is coming out at about 10 strands at a time, but so far only when I tug on it. Yeah, I know the old joke, so stop doing that, and I have but, according to

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-48031989507557084812008-05-07T11:07:00.003-04:002008-11-13T01:26:42.068-05:00

Hi everyone,First, thanks for all your prayers and well wishes. I appreciate it more than I can express. Just an update on what's been going on with me the past few weeks.I started chemotherapy last Monday, April 28th. I will receive 4 cycles, one treatment every 21 days. Monday's are my designated days. The cycle went well. I was infused through an i.v. for 5 hours. The toughest part was

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-68525379285754453812008-04-20T20:55:00.005-04:002008-11-13T01:26:42.366-05:00

We met with the geneticist on Friday afternoon. My BRCA 1&2 results came back negative. That's great for at least 2 huge reasons. Although the women in my family should still be safe & aware, at least we are not "cursed" with a predisposition for breast cancer. The second breath of relief is that had I tested positive for the gene mutation, a bilateral mastectomy would have been recommended

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-58484110956952175802008-04-09T06:26:00.001-04:002008-11-13T01:26:42.580-05:00

Well, I've committed to the Avon Walk which will take place in Washington DC the first weekend in May. It's a little less than a month away and it’s a big commitment, walking all those miles and raising all this money, but, as we know far too well, breast cancer is a big disease. I'v had a quote at the bottom of my site since I started blogging, "If you think research is expensive you should

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-50145337986811531282008-04-08T19:11:00.001-04:002008-04-08T19:13:57.757-04:00

Unfortunately I received a call from the clinic today. Hmm….now that I see just how ugly that statement looks, I think that’s definitely NOT the right way to start off any statement, especially when you’re talking about your b/c! Let me re-phrase - I received a call from the clinic that is doing the OncoType DX test, the one that will tell me the recurrence rate and determine whether or not I

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-3696675250723511042008-04-03T12:39:00.002-04:002008-11-13T01:26:42.656-05:00

Time for some humor & It's all about the Ta-Ta's!!! Here are some fun boobie emoticons for you, courtesy of the blog Plastic Surgery 101:(o)(o) = perfect breasts
( + )( + ) = silicone enhanced breasts
(*)(*) = high nipple breasts
(@)(@) = big nipple breasts
o o = A cups
( O )( O ) = D cups
(oYo) = Wonder Bra breasts
( ^)( ^) = cold breasts
(o)(O) = lopsided breasts
(Q)(Q) = pierced breasts
(p)(p

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-26396394150050262062008-03-30T00:45:00.007-04:002008-11-13T01:26:42.802-05:00

6 months ago I found a lump. 60 days ago I underwent my 2nd lumpectomy. 6 years from now now will have survived the the most prominent time for recurrence. Time will go on, many events will occur and many things will change but one thing is certain for me, I will never again be the same.I hate to admit what an impact this b/c has had on me, physically of course but mentally and emotionally

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-21965497648686735322008-03-25T22:27:00.001-04:002008-11-13T01:26:42.949-05:00

Have you ever noticed how it sometimes seems that if you aren’t complaining about something people think everything is OK? It doesn’t matter whether it's your health, your mental outlook, your love life, your friendships - or even your workload. Is it that people are generally such positive thinkers that we assume everything is OK or could it be that in essence we are that small-minded &

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-74676512992758677212008-03-25T20:30:00.002-04:002008-11-13T01:26:43.194-05:00

The more alternatives, the more difficult the choices.I was talking with 2 coworkers today and one asked the other, "Don't you think she is so brave? I just wouldn't know what I would do." My response was, "What other choice is there?" What's the alternative? It isn't as if you can simply admit defeat. At least I can't. My b/c diagnosis is not the worst thing that could happen to me, or to

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-10931581569091248612008-03-23T21:00:00.003-04:002008-11-13T01:26:43.977-05:00

I've had the past 2 weeks off re-cooperating from my third (successful and FINAL!) lumpectomy and although I've had more time on my hands than I have known what to do with at times or even enjoy to some extent, I just simply have not felt like writing. I had no idea SO many people were reading my blog. I am flattered, grateful and even surprised to have heard that so many of you noticed that I

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-65764391706257163802008-03-20T13:14:00.002-04:002008-11-13T01:26:44.157-05:00

WOW! I'm sure when Will dreamed of sharing his life with a hot woman that this isn't quite what he had in mind but he's got me - hot flashes and all!! Because my particular b/c is hormone receptor positive part of my adjuvant (ongoing) treatment is to basically deplete my body of all estrogen so with that said, I have been deprived of my hormones and am in full menopause. :( How does that

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-57958243199486331542008-03-19T21:00:00.002-04:002008-11-13T01:26:44.246-05:00

Genomic tests, such as the Oncotype DX look at groups of genes and how active they are. Genetic tests, such as BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 look at an individual’s inherited traits or genes.All breast cancer tumors are unique. Key differences between individual tumors influence the likelihood of the cancer recurring. These differences are associated in part with the level of expression of a certain group of

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-739777236088216772008-03-19T17:00:00.001-04:002008-03-25T21:40:17.518-04:00

Despite the best efforts of your health care team to surgically remove all traces of your breast cancer tumor, the reality is that breast cancer can still recur. Early stage breast cancer can return months to years after the original diagnosis and treatment. The cancer can come back as a local recurrence (in the treated breast) or as a distant recurrence elsewhere in the body, such as the bones,

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-68127320666692022212008-03-18T22:00:00.002-04:002008-03-25T21:34:22.301-04:00

Today was the most difficult day I have had to face throughout my b/c journey. Probably one of the most difficult days in all my life. It was my first visit to the Medical Oncology department. I have remained positive and strong throughout this process and I think in a sense I have also remained in a bit of denial. I hear the words of my diagnosis as they are spoken by each doctor and then as

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-40146031448623949132008-03-18T13:19:00.003-04:002008-11-13T01:26:44.344-05:00

Each year, more than 192,000 American women learn they have breast cancer. Approximately 5 to 10 percent of these women have a hereditary form of the disease. Alterations or mutations in certain genes make some women more susceptible to developing breast and other types of cancer.We are each born with two copies of about 100,000 different genes.  One copy comes from your mother and one from your

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-46693379100304969522008-03-14T13:00:00.004-04:002008-03-25T21:14:33.605-04:00

"Who says you can’t keep enjoying life in the midst of difficult challenges? Regardless of the catastrophe, when life hands you the proverbial lemon don’t settle for lemonade. Grab yourself some tequila, salt and a blender – then savor your lemon margarita with a smile on your face." ~Author unkownMy mom & dad did a great job of taking care of me while I recouped from my 3rd surgery. They also (

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-61629038717123396692008-03-13T14:00:00.002-04:002008-11-13T01:26:44.505-05:00

My third (and final!!!) surgery was a success! No need to go into the clinical specifics, since I've already "journaled" down this road a time or two before but my surgeon confirmed that this time (finally!!!) the margins were clean, meaning no traces of cancer at the outer edges!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!My next step from here is to oncology where we will discuss radiation treatments. The "team"

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-8381199449322590442008-02-20T15:10:00.001-05:002008-02-20T22:58:20.430-05:00

Maybe I should just "cut and paste" from my previous surgical follow-ups. Yes, that is a tad bit of sarcasm & frustration you're detecting.Seriously, the news I received toady, like every other time it seems, was not BAD, it just wasn't great. From what I understand at this point, the MRI showed the remaining cancer to be localized, so the next (yes, that would be the 3rd!) surgery was

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-40090236370985655122008-02-13T23:37:00.006-05:002008-11-13T01:26:44.670-05:00

What's worse than having breast cancer? Having breast cancer, being claustrophobic and having to have an MRI! I had my MRI tonight, and it wasn't without a good bit of anxiety - at least initially. I think I was actually more nervous about a simple MRI than I was the day of either of my lumpectomies. I knew it would be close quarters in there, but I simply didn't allow myself to think too

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-18870207097500871482008-02-13T23:22:00.003-05:002008-11-13T01:26:44.763-05:00

I came across this one evening while "researching" cancer info. I found it to be so inspirational. I found just what I needed. I can only hope to have such an amazing attitude throughout life. Here's to " Dancing in the Rain" ~T3Dancing in the Rainby Decaturjulie on 9/8/2007 at 7:55 amin category InspirationalMy Aunt who was just diagnosed with lymphoma sent this to me this week and I thought

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-34094894313371506462008-02-02T18:40:00.001-05:002008-11-13T01:26:45.020-05:00

OK, seriously the WORST - ABSOLUTELY WORST thing about my surgery was that I suffered the worst wedgie of my life as I was wheeled out of recovery and into my room!!! And my technician, as sweet as she was, must not have learned the definition of "wedgie" in her "English as a second language" class! How crazy is it that the first words to my entourage was about my wedgie! I guess no crazier

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-21925474245264701972008-01-31T20:31:00.002-05:002008-11-13T01:26:45.089-05:00

It was the morning of surgery. We got up at 0 dark thirty (seriously, 0400 - that's 4:00 in the blessed morning for you non-military time folks!) and headed to Walter Reed, Will & I in 1 car and my mom & dad in theirs. My report time was 0600. The actual time of the surgery wasn't known but the first procedure (dye injection) was supposed to happen at 0700, and the surgery somewhere around an

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-34098841601065617052008-01-24T01:09:00.001-05:002008-02-16T11:08:04.069-05:00

Hello everyone.  I wanted to take a few minutes and let each of you know that I am thinking of you and I thank you so much for the care, positive thoughts, support, prayers and love that you have already provided me.   I am doing very well, in spite of or maybe even in a sense because of my recent  breast cancer diagnosis.  It is a fact and my motto that it is a part of me, but not me.  I will

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-51438885458055449582007-12-21T10:55:00.002-05:002008-11-13T01:26:45.244-05:00

My appointment was so informal that it didn't even require me putting on one of those ever so lovely gowns. I hopped up on the table, exposed myself and my suture strip was quickly removed. As I readied myself to head out for last minute Christmas shopping my doctor asked me to sit down so that she could talk with me about the results of my pathology report. I actually asked her to repeat what

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-75814585145001479572007-12-14T10:54:00.001-05:002008-02-16T10:59:05.979-05:00

A lumpectomy was scheduled for November, which I had to cancel and reschedule. Honestly, after cancelling the first surgery I considered not even rescheduling it, simply because I didn't "feel like" going through any more medical appointments and treatments, and after all. the holiday season was quickly approaching and my social calendar would surely have little room for recouperating. Call it

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141396005488439259.post-81413695231293886802007-10-01T10:51:00.002-04:002008-11-13T01:26:45.609-05:00

Here's the story of my breast cancer.I found a lump in my left breast in October during a self breast exam. It was small, pea-like, very defined and felt very close to the surface of my skin. Throughout the past years I have had a few "lumps" which, once removed, were discovered to be fibroid adenomas - benign tumors (sort of a solid fatty growth), NOT related to cancer or the potential of

Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07429968373612261688noreply@blogger.com0