Seriously...I'm completely addicted!!
I am so excited that the new television season is upon us...that my favourite old shows are back and some promising new shows are about to begin.
It's a problem. A good problem in my opinion, but a problem none the less. Is it normal to have created a schedule (with highlights and notes) of the many many shows I want to watch this fall? I mean many many shows!
I'm excited! The PVR is lined up! And the 50 inch has never looked better!
I think I'm in trouble.
xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Genetic Testing...Done!
In our strive for knowledge and understanding with my breast cancer diagnosis last year, we discovered there are basically three things they check for in the pathology results as potential factors in the cancer's growth and development.
Two of these "things" are hormone receptors. There are two types of hormone receptors - estrogen and progesterone. Breast cancer cells that have these receptors need estrogen and progesterone to grow. The idea is that the cancer cells would receive signals from these hormone receptors that could promote their growth. Roughly two out of every three breast cancers test positive for hormone receptors. I did not. If I had tested positive, I would likely be on some hormone therapy now (medication that would either lower or block the hormone receptors to decrease future risk).
The last thing they check the pathology for is the HER2 gene. This one is a little more complicated, but basically what happens is the HER2 gene makes HER2 proteins. This part is good. But when the HER2 gene doesn't work properly, it creates too many proteins and this causes the breast cells to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way. I tested negative for this one too. Again, if I had tested positive there are medications specifically designed for HER2 positive breast cancer, which is great because HER2 positive breast cancers tend to grow quickly and spread.
So, I'm what they call a triple negative in the bus...and it's a little bit scary because we don't know what caused my cancer to grow.
The only other avenue I could explore was genetic. This was a bit of a long shot for me...I don't have any family history of breast cancer. But since I was considered relatively young at the time of diagnosis (look at that...42 is young!!) and since I was a triple negative, it was something I wanted to explore. Matt and I met with a Genetic Counsellor in March to get the scoop. There is a test they can run to see if you have a mutation of the breast cancer gene (known as BRCA for BReast CAncer). If you qualify within their parameters, they will test you for this mutation. My Uncle Peter had strongly recommended to me when I was first diagnosed that I get this testing done. It was a relatively easy decision from my perspective to get it done, but not as easy when thinking about the rest of my family. If I was a carrier of this mutation/abnormality, than in all likelihood other members of my family would be too. And some people don't want to know. For me, through this whole experience, knowledge has meant power. But that's not the case for everyone and I understand that. At the end of the day I had to do what was right for me and then handle the information once I had the results.
So in March I had five vials of blood drawn for the test...and on Friday Matt and I went back to see the Genetic Counsellor to get the results. It was GREAT news!! With 95% certainty, they can confirm that I am NOT abnormal!! Yes, I focused on that part! The testing showed no mutation of the BRCA gene for me!! They have several markers they check along the way, and compare to a "normal" BRCA gene and I was within the variance for each marker! This is such great news and such a relief for me. Part of the worry for me all along has been the risk my breast cancer creates for those I love the most! To know that there is not a genetic disposition makes me VERY happy!! And so happy for my fellow family members!! I wanted to shout it from the rooftop!!
Of course, that still leaves me not knowing what caused my cancer to grow. I have my theories about dinners I was forced to eat as a child...you know, those yucky things your parents tried to convince you are good for you...but alas, I'm sure that's not the case either. I just drew the short straw.
C'est la vie!! Here I am, six months after treatments are done and I am grateful for the journey of the past fourteen months. I have learned so much...and I am so very happy to be here!!
xoxoxoxoxoox
Two of these "things" are hormone receptors. There are two types of hormone receptors - estrogen and progesterone. Breast cancer cells that have these receptors need estrogen and progesterone to grow. The idea is that the cancer cells would receive signals from these hormone receptors that could promote their growth. Roughly two out of every three breast cancers test positive for hormone receptors. I did not. If I had tested positive, I would likely be on some hormone therapy now (medication that would either lower or block the hormone receptors to decrease future risk).
The last thing they check the pathology for is the HER2 gene. This one is a little more complicated, but basically what happens is the HER2 gene makes HER2 proteins. This part is good. But when the HER2 gene doesn't work properly, it creates too many proteins and this causes the breast cells to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way. I tested negative for this one too. Again, if I had tested positive there are medications specifically designed for HER2 positive breast cancer, which is great because HER2 positive breast cancers tend to grow quickly and spread.
So, I'm what they call a triple negative in the bus...and it's a little bit scary because we don't know what caused my cancer to grow.
The only other avenue I could explore was genetic. This was a bit of a long shot for me...I don't have any family history of breast cancer. But since I was considered relatively young at the time of diagnosis (look at that...42 is young!!) and since I was a triple negative, it was something I wanted to explore. Matt and I met with a Genetic Counsellor in March to get the scoop. There is a test they can run to see if you have a mutation of the breast cancer gene (known as BRCA for BReast CAncer). If you qualify within their parameters, they will test you for this mutation. My Uncle Peter had strongly recommended to me when I was first diagnosed that I get this testing done. It was a relatively easy decision from my perspective to get it done, but not as easy when thinking about the rest of my family. If I was a carrier of this mutation/abnormality, than in all likelihood other members of my family would be too. And some people don't want to know. For me, through this whole experience, knowledge has meant power. But that's not the case for everyone and I understand that. At the end of the day I had to do what was right for me and then handle the information once I had the results.
So in March I had five vials of blood drawn for the test...and on Friday Matt and I went back to see the Genetic Counsellor to get the results. It was GREAT news!! With 95% certainty, they can confirm that I am NOT abnormal!! Yes, I focused on that part! The testing showed no mutation of the BRCA gene for me!! They have several markers they check along the way, and compare to a "normal" BRCA gene and I was within the variance for each marker! This is such great news and such a relief for me. Part of the worry for me all along has been the risk my breast cancer creates for those I love the most! To know that there is not a genetic disposition makes me VERY happy!! And so happy for my fellow family members!! I wanted to shout it from the rooftop!!
Of course, that still leaves me not knowing what caused my cancer to grow. I have my theories about dinners I was forced to eat as a child...you know, those yucky things your parents tried to convince you are good for you...but alas, I'm sure that's not the case either. I just drew the short straw.
C'est la vie!! Here I am, six months after treatments are done and I am grateful for the journey of the past fourteen months. I have learned so much...and I am so very happy to be here!!
xoxoxoxoxoox
Monday, September 5, 2011
Yippee! It's September!!
And that means it's my birthday month! My favourite day of the year!!
Only 22 days away!! And yes, I'm definitely counting. Just ask anyone who lives in the same house as me (they're already tired of me!!) Imagine how they're going to feel with three weeks to go! I love it!!
I'm sitting downstairs watching the US Open (Tennis) on the big screen! I am really loving tennis and have decided I need to learn how to play. I'm in the process of finding some lessons...and finding some courage so I don't back out!!
I'm sending a big shout out to my fabulous niece, Emma, who got third in her fiddle contest this weekend!! Way to go, Em!! You rock!!
I finished "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" by John Boyne. What an EXCELLENT story. It's an easy quick read (easily read in an afternoon) and is from the perspective of a young, naive boy who's father is the Commandant at Auschwitz. I should clarify what I mean by easy (big print, short chapters, small book)...the story is compelling and riveting! I would strongly recommend it!
Hope everybody had a great long weekend and found some time to sit and enjoy some time with family and friends!
xoxoxoxoxox
Only 22 days away!! And yes, I'm definitely counting. Just ask anyone who lives in the same house as me (they're already tired of me!!) Imagine how they're going to feel with three weeks to go! I love it!!
I'm sitting downstairs watching the US Open (Tennis) on the big screen! I am really loving tennis and have decided I need to learn how to play. I'm in the process of finding some lessons...and finding some courage so I don't back out!!
I'm sending a big shout out to my fabulous niece, Emma, who got third in her fiddle contest this weekend!! Way to go, Em!! You rock!!
I finished "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" by John Boyne. What an EXCELLENT story. It's an easy quick read (easily read in an afternoon) and is from the perspective of a young, naive boy who's father is the Commandant at Auschwitz. I should clarify what I mean by easy (big print, short chapters, small book)...the story is compelling and riveting! I would strongly recommend it!
Hope everybody had a great long weekend and found some time to sit and enjoy some time with family and friends!
xoxoxoxoxox
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Sum...Sum...Summertime...
I love summer! I love the heat, the sun, the smiles of everyone enjoying the great weather! I love sitting outside and reading the paper or having a nap. I love connecting with neighbours who are out and about, also enjoying the summer...and I love sitting in a backyard with friends enjoying a drink and maybe a dip in the pool!
As August comes to a close and I hear all the ads on the radio for "the most wonderful time of the year" and back to school sales, I know summer is coming to an end. I'm starting to think about all the things I didn't do this summer and I can't help but feel a little bummed. I think summer should last as long as winter does.
That said, fall is almost upon us and you know what, I love the fall! I love the colours, the sunny days and cool nights and the parade of kids heading back to school! I love the predictable routine that returns after summer holidays and the return of my favourite tv shows as the fall tv schedule begins. And I love digging out my favourite sweatshirts and thinking about the return of Kitchener Ranger hockey!
While I'm not a big fan of the cold that comes with winter, or driving in snow and ice...I am grateful for the change that comes with each season. For the opportunity to embrace the best of each season and the beauty that comes with it. And I guess being a Canadian means tolerating winter even if I don't want to!
I'm getting ahead of myself...winter is still (hopefully) months away! It's pool party time and I still have some summer things to enjoy!! I'm going outside!
xoxoxoxoxoxoox
As August comes to a close and I hear all the ads on the radio for "the most wonderful time of the year" and back to school sales, I know summer is coming to an end. I'm starting to think about all the things I didn't do this summer and I can't help but feel a little bummed. I think summer should last as long as winter does.
That said, fall is almost upon us and you know what, I love the fall! I love the colours, the sunny days and cool nights and the parade of kids heading back to school! I love the predictable routine that returns after summer holidays and the return of my favourite tv shows as the fall tv schedule begins. And I love digging out my favourite sweatshirts and thinking about the return of Kitchener Ranger hockey!
While I'm not a big fan of the cold that comes with winter, or driving in snow and ice...I am grateful for the change that comes with each season. For the opportunity to embrace the best of each season and the beauty that comes with it. And I guess being a Canadian means tolerating winter even if I don't want to!
I'm getting ahead of myself...winter is still (hopefully) months away! It's pool party time and I still have some summer things to enjoy!! I'm going outside!
xoxoxoxoxoxoox
Monday, August 22, 2011
What a Girl!!
Last week I received an email from Matt's sister-in-law, Leslie that I would like to share with all of you. It's about her daughter (Matt's niece), Kathryn. Kathryn is a wonderful girl and I love it when I get the chance to visit with her and hear what she's up to. Here's Leslie's email:
After a year of growing her hair, and much frustration over brushing such a long mane, Kathryn has donated her locks to be made into wigs for cancer patients. She made this decision a year ago when she learned our dear family member, Sue, would be losing her hair during her cancer treatments. We are very proud of Sue and we love Kathryn's new look!
I am so proud of this amazing ten year old!! Great job growing your hair and doing something so generous, Kathryn!! I know that someone will be very grateful when their hair falls out and they can wear some of yours!! And I love your new haircut!!
On an entirely different note, I got to have lunch with an old friend of mine on Sunday. In the summer of 1987, I was a bridesmaid in my friend Sheryl's wedding. We went to high school together and she is one of the kindest people I have ever known. Somehow, a year or so after Sheryl's wedding, we lost touch. Sitting across from her on Sunday, 24 years later, I wonder how that happened. I am so glad she found me on Facebook and we reconnected. I am grateful for the opportunity to catch up, and for how great it felt to give an old friend a big hug.
xoxoxoxoxoxo
After a year of growing her hair, and much frustration over brushing such a long mane, Kathryn has donated her locks to be made into wigs for cancer patients. She made this decision a year ago when she learned our dear family member, Sue, would be losing her hair during her cancer treatments. We are very proud of Sue and we love Kathryn's new look!
I am so proud of this amazing ten year old!! Great job growing your hair and doing something so generous, Kathryn!! I know that someone will be very grateful when their hair falls out and they can wear some of yours!! And I love your new haircut!!
On an entirely different note, I got to have lunch with an old friend of mine on Sunday. In the summer of 1987, I was a bridesmaid in my friend Sheryl's wedding. We went to high school together and she is one of the kindest people I have ever known. Somehow, a year or so after Sheryl's wedding, we lost touch. Sitting across from her on Sunday, 24 years later, I wonder how that happened. I am so glad she found me on Facebook and we reconnected. I am grateful for the opportunity to catch up, and for how great it felt to give an old friend a big hug.
xoxoxoxoxoxo
Monday, August 15, 2011
I'm Engaged...but not "Engaged"...
So, the last couple of weeks at work I feel like I have turned a corner. I made the comment at work that it's so much better because I am engaged. I meant that I am engaged in the work, and feeling drawn in to what I am working on and want to work on more stuff (definitely a good sign and a big change from a couple of weeks ago). And even though we had been talking about work and how I was doing working through the piles, as soon as I used the word engaged, the response I got was an incredulous "You're engaged??!!". Darn english language...darn double entendres.
So, while I am becoming engaged at work (meaning look at me getting caught up in the work and having no trouble filling in a full day)...I am not engaged to get married. Silly people.
I was very tempted to title this blog entry simply "I'm Engaged"...knowing full well there might be a few screams, gasps as breaths were drawn in and "Holy crap, I can't believe she didn't tell me"...I decided I wasn't quite that cruel. Well, maybe I am a little bit...since I'm sure I drew in a few of you with the title I did use...
I'm up to three full days this week. It sure is a lot more fun to go to work now that my brain seems to be working better and I'm much more "engaged" with what I'm working on!!
On a more somber note, I am sending out my sincere condolences to the whole Lunz family on the loss of their Mom and Grandma, Leona. A lovely lady with a quick smile, I know she will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with all of you.
xoxoxoxoxoxo
So, while I am becoming engaged at work (meaning look at me getting caught up in the work and having no trouble filling in a full day)...I am not engaged to get married. Silly people.
I was very tempted to title this blog entry simply "I'm Engaged"...knowing full well there might be a few screams, gasps as breaths were drawn in and "Holy crap, I can't believe she didn't tell me"...I decided I wasn't quite that cruel. Well, maybe I am a little bit...since I'm sure I drew in a few of you with the title I did use...
I'm up to three full days this week. It sure is a lot more fun to go to work now that my brain seems to be working better and I'm much more "engaged" with what I'm working on!!
On a more somber note, I am sending out my sincere condolences to the whole Lunz family on the loss of their Mom and Grandma, Leona. A lovely lady with a quick smile, I know she will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with all of you.
xoxoxoxoxoxo
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Shout It...Shout It...Shout It Out Loud!!
Last week Matt and I went to Windsor to see KISS live at Caesars Colosseum. Matt has been a huge KISS fan since he was a teenager and he still loves their music! He can sing (almost) all of their songs by heart...and does...often!! When provided with the opportunity to go see them live, he just couldn't turn it down! Me, I'm not really a KISS fan, but I do have a lot of respect for a band that comes out and hits it...and interacts completely with the audience the entire two hours they are performing. These guys really do know how to entertain!! And who doesn't like a little "Rock & Roll All Night"??
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| I love this shot...you can totally tell how close we got!! |
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| Gene...hard to believe he's 62. For those followers of "Family Jewels", the girl in the front row with the sign that said "Ask 4 me after please" added some insight into why there may be marriage problems! |
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| Last time we saw KISS, they wouldn't sing Beth...and we heard somewhere that they won't sing it anymore out of respect for Peter Criss...I am happy to report that Eric Singer (the new Catman) did a great job with it!! |
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| Me and my man!! He was one of only a few with the make up on. What a die hard!! |
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| As the concert comes to an end, Paul Stanley struts his stuff one last time for us! |
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| Love the confetti cannon!! Really, it's probably my favourite part! |
It's been a day of reflection for me today. One year ago today I had my first chemo treatment. And right about now I was tossing my cookies, for what would be the beginning of fourteen hours of yuckiness. I'm so glad to have all that behind me!!
I went to see the final Harry Potter movie last night with my friend, Kim. We've seen all the movies together and the last one did not disappoint. I now have the desire to watch them all in sequence and see what I missed the first time around! Tomorrow I'm off to see the Smurf movie with my little friend, Jenna, and her mom, Bette. I think I'm looking forward to it...although I have to admit I already have that darn Smurf song bouncing around in my head...
Sending some sunshine vibes out to my friends who are camping this weekend. Hope you have some great weather and a fantastic time!!
xoxoxoxoxoxox
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