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theroyalmile · 4 years ago

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No Returns, No Exchanges

Disclaimer: I have debated for quite a while whether or not I should post this blog. Social media is such a curated space for joy and happiness, it can feel oppressive at times. There is so much life-changing positivity, from engagements to new jobs; and don’t get me wrong, that happiness is great to see. But on the other hand, all of that positivity makes me feel like sharing any kind of negative information is attention-seeking and an immense overshare. So let’s ask ourselves why I feel that way. Why is happiness celebrated while the sad, sometimes harsh realities of life are thought to be oversharing? More specifically, why do we feel like life-changing news can only be shared when it doesn’t make other people uncomfortable? Our expressions of pain should not be regulated by the comfort levels of the people who surround us. There comes a time when not sharing something begins to feel like hiding something, and hiding something turns to shame. That is a feeling that I refuse to welcome into my life right now. So here we go.

It has been a while since I posted anything… a really long while. It has been rare, these past few years, that I have even felt I had anything much to say let alone write anything, mostly because my life has been fairly normal, fairly unextraordinary, and I am rather blessed to be saying that during such a difficult time for so many. The few moments where I have felt like I had something to say have been fleeting, and after a good 2am word vomit on paper, I have filed these musings under “not to be seen by the light of day” which is probably for the best.

Sometimes in the past I would find myself wishing I had something interesting going on in my life, something worthy of commentary… I don’t know, I was thinking like a cool hobby, an interesting skill, a kick-ass career, or a run in with Tom Hardy like I’d always dreamed of… something.

Well, to whoever is in charge, this is not what I meant, and I would like to request a refund.

Because as its final parting kick in the ass 2020 decided to gift me with breast cancer. This isn’t a bad punch line, it’s just the truth.Let me give you a second to process that one. I certainly needed a few.

The thing is, a little itty bitty 3-centimeter tumor- that’s not something I can give back, as much as I might want to. It’s not a too-large sweater you can return with a gift receipt, and it’s not a bad haircut you can complain about and get your money back (though it certainly will include one in a week or so!)

A lot of you already know this story and frankly it’s not one I can tell with much finesse or humor, so I will keep it brief. It was a dark and stormy 6pm when I found a lump in my breast in the shower back in November. My initial thought was “you’re a crazy lady and a hypochondriac, let’s give it a few weeks since this is probably nothing.” A few weeks, when my imaginary lump seemed to not actually be imaginary, I figured okay, it’s time to see my doctor, it’s probably nothing but we need to make sure. I was in fact so unconcerned about it that I didn’t even see my regular doctor. I figured I just needed a medical professional to feel me up and let me know what to do next. I didn’t even bother mentioning it to my parents. (For context of my laissez-faire, when I was 14 I found a lump in my breast that turned out, after little fanfare, to be a cyst which was unceremoniously drained on a cold metal table by a male doctor in a somewhat traumatizing but ultimately benign event. That’s a longer story for later).

Cue a physical exam, confirming I was not crazy and there was a lump, but it was probably nothing; an utltrasound, confirming the lump was a shape that they did not like, but it was probably nothing; and an ultrasound guided biopsy, in which the probably nothing was sampled. The week between Christmas and New Year’s was spent impatiently waiting for the news, increasingly feeling that my probably nothing was maybe, actually something.

On December 28 around lunch time I received a phone call in the middle of the work day from the radiologist, who while very nice, was someone I had only met once while she shot a needle in and out of my boob. She asked me how I was doing and then told me my test results were in. “I’m sorry to say it’s not good news,” she said.

And believe it or fucking not my immediate thought was “It’s not good news… it’s great news!” My brain supplied this as if on autopilot like some kind of 90s game show host, knowing fully well that I would not be so lucky because we are not living in a Brooklyn 99 episode. It’s weird where your brain goes under duress.

It was one of the most uncomfortable phone calls I have ever had, wherein I found myself trying to reassure a complete stranger that I was okay and I’m pretty sure I even said, “it is what it is.” I was told a breast surgeon and oncologist from my provider network would be in contact and the call ended. Ultimately, I was diagnosed with Stage 1B Triple Negative Invasive Ductal and Lobular Carcinoma. No returns, no exchanges.

I am two months into my diagnosis, and 1/8 of my way through chemotherapy, the first part of a three series treatment (to be followed by surgery and then likely radiation.) This Friday, after my second chemotherapy treatment, I will begin to lose my hair. Anyone who knows me at all knows that the hair loss will be a pill likely far harder for me to swallow than the chemo itself. And while the look may have worked for Demi Moore in GI Jane, I do not have her bone structure, nor her body. I anticipate I will look more like the yellow peanut M&M, which while obviously the best M&M of the bunch, I think we can all agree is not a cute look for me.

I do not say this to be melodramatic, I just say this because I am cynical and pragmatic by nature: I am not particularly surprised that I have cancer. And this is for several reasons, some of which probably deserve a longer blog later. To put it simply, I have been surrounded by cancer, both by choice and by cruel fate and happenstance, my entire life.

Cruel Fate and Happenstance: Having several relatives who have gone through cancer, and a mother with a BRCA 1 genetic mutation (which I had a 50% chance of inheriting, and in fact did) I always figured it would eventually happen to me. The odds this condition dealt me? “About 13% of women in the general population will develop breast cancer sometime during their lives. By contrast, 55%–72% of women who inherit a harmful BRCA1 variant… will develop breast cancer by 70–80 years of age.” That 55-72% is the kind of percentage you want winning the lottery, but the lottery this most certainly is not, and that much I understood. So, I always figured something like this would probably happen. Did I think I would be 28? No. But I figure that just makes me an overachiever.

Choice: I volunteered at a cancer support non-profit from the time I was 12 to the time I was 22, and I wrote my college senior thesis in anthropology on women with ovarian cancer, the cancer that killed my aunt Lizzy when I was 4 years old. I have likely read more books on cancer than your average newly diagnosed person, which I find to be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, I know some of what’s coming. On the other hand, I know some of what’s coming. Of course I don’t think any of these things gave me cancer but you might say I have been training for this my whole life. I think this joke is far funnier than pretty much everyone I say it to except my immediate family, because the Tenney/Koss folk are very big on gallows humor, in which case this is hilarious. Comedy is our family coping mechanism, and I am guilty of occasionally forgetting not everyone is wired like that.

So where are we right now? Taking it day by day. Do I frequently find myself wallowing in self-pity these days? Sure. But all the same I feel truly lucky. This is a feeling I am trying to hold on to, because I think the other options might be truly unbearable. Why? Well, I found this tumor. I’m 28-years-old, which means I am hardly old enough for a regular mammogram and MRI. My last yearly physical was a TeleHealth appointment (hence no actual physical) and I will be honest, I never made a habit of regularly checking myself like I should have. But this tumor just presented itself casually during a shower. Breast cancer, when caught early, is highly treatable and curable, and I am fairly confident, knock on wood, that is where this particular nightmare is headed. The fact that it was caught early: pure luck.

Another reason I feel lucky is for the most part, I feel like I actually have the stability to handle the oncoming struggle. I have a large and wonderful support system, an incredible and supportive partner, a savings account with actual savings in it, and a job where I am cared about as a human. If this had happened to me three years ago, almost none of these things would be true. There will never be a good time to have cancer, but some times are apparently better than others. Of course, the ongoing pandemic means I can’t have people go with me to chemo, or my wig fitting, or my surgery consultations, and alone a lot of this seems much more daunting and difficult than it might otherwise have been, but I am trying to make a habit of counting my blessings, and despite this terrible thing I’ve been given, my blessings are many.

There isn’t a “right way” to have cancer, but I think there might be a “right way” for me. I am a private person and I find sharing some of these details difficult and more than a little uncomfortable, but I am also intimately familiar with the healing nature of writing and comedy, so I am going to give it a shot.

And now that I think of it… the peanut M&M is going to make a really great Halloween costume.

#cancer #breast cancer #personal #newly diagnosed

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anzu2snow · 4 years ago

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It’s been a long time since I simply wrote something on here, instead of shared a link to my blog. Since it’s a little difficult right now to blog through blogger for me, I might just write stuff here.

I don’t think I wrote about my cancer directly on here before. I was diagnosed with metastatic or stage 4 breast cancer back in April. I had no other cancer diagnosis beforehand. People tell me I’m too young for it. I’m 36. (Was 35 when diagnosed, but had my birthday in November.) Younger than even when the mammograms are supposed to start up. I’ll always have this. There’s no beating stage 4 breast cancer. It’s spread to my bones (all over my skeleton) and skin.

Found out about the bone mets (lesions) first before they found the cancer. I had fallen in the shower back in March and broke my right shoulder. A month later, as I was recovering, ankle/leg swelling wouldn’t go down so I went to Urgent Care to get checked out. They found the bone mets in the imaging. They weren’t exactly sure that’s what they were at the time, and ordered a mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsies of both breasts. They found out that it’s in both breasts, too. My type is hormone positive (all of them), and her2-.

I was put into my insurance’s palliative care program in April. It’s helped me a lot. I have a cane, hospital bed, walker, a home aide that comes by to give me a shower twice a week (the broken shoulder still isn’t flexible enough to shower with), a nurse that calls once a week and sometimes meets face-to-face at home, a social worker who calls once a week, a doctor that deals with meds for the symptoms part of it, and more. I was supposed to start physical therapy through them, but haven’t yet. There’s a lot more to the program than I thought at first.

I had a radical hysterectomy back in July. That took care of the hormone powerhouses which were feeding the cancer. Had more problems with swelling afterwards. It’s been bad off and on since then. Pretty good right now, at least.

I’m on Ibrance for chemo. Luckily, it’s just an oral pill and not through an IV. Also, taking anastrazole for the hormone part. Started taking zometa recently. That is actually through an IV once every 3 months. It’s a bone-strengthening med for people like me where it’s in the bones. I was told it could give me flu-like symptoms after that 1st dose. Sure enough, it did. Had a fever, came close to throwing up, etc. the next day for 2 days after. They said that only happens the 1st time. I hope so. I’m not taking it anymore if I end up that sick every time. So, we’ll see. I take a lot of meds now for things like pain, nausea, cramps, swelling, and more. I have what looks like a little pharmacy in the dining room with all that stuff. I hate taking it all, but if I don’t, I can’t function at all.

I’ve been having a weird symptom lately. I feel like I’m going to faint/slip away sometimes. I told my new oncologist about this and she immediately said it sounded like brain mets. She quickly ordered a brain MRI to see. I just had that done yesterday. The last one I had was back in April, and my brain looked fine. I didn’t remember that there was a contrast for this one. It was louder than I remembered, too. Despite having ear plugs and mufflers on either side of my head. Ended up with a mild headache because of the constant loud thuds. They kept asking if I was ok. I love tight enclosed spaces, so I was fine. I had to have help with the gown and robe, which was kind of embarrassing. They said I should get the results by Monday. Much sooner than I expected.

On Monday, I’m getting both a full bone scan and CT scan. My last bone scan in September indicated progression. I hope it doesn’t this time. I hope it hasn’t travelled to other organs with the CT scan. However, knowing how aggressive this cancer has been, it wouldn’t surprise me if it has spread to another organ somewhere. It’s going to be a long day.

#life #blog #metastatic breast cancer #cancer #breast cancer #stage 4 breast cancer #scans #brainscan #mri

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ridiasfangirlings · 5 years ago

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So a quick rundown of two other K Fan Clan stories featuring Scepter 4. Again keep in mind that my Japanese is not great and this is a mix of google translate and what I could figure out on my own.

First, the Scepter 4 health check story. This is a short one. Basically it starts talking about Scepter 4's importance and how they're the only organization with the ability to track down Strains and that the other government ministries recognize that, however there is a mention of 'budget harassment.' Cue alphabet boys E-H, looking at a schedule indicating that the members will be undergoing a health check that appears to involve staying a couple nights at a luxury hotel. As civil servants it makes sense that they would have a regular check up but usually it's just a one hour checkup with chest X-rays, blood tests, urinalysis and a doctor's interview. The scheduled check up in front of them has hundreds of steps, MRIs and PETICT as well as gastric and colon cameras, etc. Gotou then notes that's not the worst of it, everyone has to get a mammogram as well. The boys have a moment of 'Men can get that as well?' and Enomoto notes that men's chance of getting breast cancer isn't zero after all. Hidaka wonders how much this costs, Gotou looks it up on his PDA and says that a premium executive check at the hospital is close to this and the cheapest is about 300,000. Everyone's like 'wait our dorm hasn't stopped leaking since last month, the shower hasn't stopped switching between hot and cold water,' Fuse says he thinks his and Enomoto's room has a mouse...but they have enough budget for this premium health check course. Eventually they all conclude this unbalanced budget is because the other related government ministries hate Munakata. (Everyone then gossips a bit about Fushimi seeming unhealthy and will Awashima's boobs fit in the X-ray, eventually all members were found to be healthy.)

Next, my favorite of these two: Wind and Clouds! Reisi Castle!

An Idol K Scepter 4 story! There is a heavy silence on the location bus as the members of Scepter 4's 'Shitsubou-tai' (Rapid Dream Unit? Something like that...it's the alphabet boys, basically) are preparing to go to their doom. Scepter 4's 'Promotion! Scepter 4' Idol variety show has become nationally popular among all people regardless of gender. Apparently due to this popularity, it isn't unheard of for the idols to be shipped to South America, or the North Pole, or to skydive from 2000 meters in the air. So naturally the poor members are more afraid than anything of 'The Countdown' to their next recording, which is never announced in advance – they are only suddenly packed into a bus and sent on to the recording site. Kamo notes that at least it's in Japan this time and someone mentions that didn't he go to the Amazon last time (where he was apparently surrounded by toxic poisons and nearly sucked into the river, luckily he came back alive. Ganbatte, Kamo-san ;^;).

Everyone ponders survival on a deserted island, or perhaps crossing the desert (these poor poor boys..), knowing that Munakata's ideas always exceed expectation. Finally they arrive, getting off the bus at a place where there's a large tunnel. That's when a voice comes over the loudspeaker welcoming them, it's the president of Scepter 4 and one of the 'Idol Kings,' Munakata Reisi. Munakata tells them it is time for the challenge as the walls below the speakers descend and they can all see what's on the other side of the tunnel wall: a Japanese-style castle with a small but perfect castle tower is there, surrounded by moats, walls and fences. Munakata proudly explains that this is Reisi Castle, which he undertook from design to construction supervision (have I mentioned I love Munakata? I love Munakata). What he intends is that the squad will have to break through each layer of castle defenses in order to defeat Munakata, the master of the castle. In order to give them time to formulate strategy and complete this Munakata has set up a challenge period of ten weeks.

Everyone notes that up until now they've faced many challenges overseas but this project seems of a different level, having to defeat Munakata. Fuse wonders if they can challenge it now and Munakata says of course, everyone figures that capturing the castle quickly will be easiest and so they charge – and Fuse promptly yells for help as the bridge splits in two and overflows with slippery oil. Akiyama and Benzai manage to reach the top of the drawbridge and try to pull the others up, sadly Fuse dies (well okay no he doesn't he falls into the moat). On the other side of the bridge a tank (? This part was difficult ;;) appears, everyone prepares to die.

Elsewhere, someone is swiftly controlling all the traps, focusing on Akiyama. Yes, the operator of the traps is none other than Scepter 4's most popular member, Fushimi. RIP Alphabet Squad. Fushimi devised and is controlling most of the traps, he notes that Akiyama and Benzai have dropped out as he continues to deploy the traps. Vice Castle Lord Awashima sits at Munakata's side and they all watch as the poor alphabet boys fail miserably.

It takes until the 10th week for the castle to fall. The remaining members who break through the defenses reach the top of the tower where Munakata himself waits with a wooden sword. Cue 'Munakata, battou!' and the last three members are struck down in an instant, burying their small hope in utter despair. On the bright side, ratings went up 57%.

#k project #Talking K #I LOVE THE IDOL K STORY #I love that this is canon that Idol K involves S4 doing ridiculous things #the poor alphabet squad though RIP #Fushimi with the traps reminded me of him covering Mihashira during the jungle attack #again these are messy summaries but the gist is close enough I think

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smileslikeparentheses · 5 years ago

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Life update - I have cancer

Yes, it sucks.

Fuck cancer.

I don’t think anyone owes anyone personal health stories, but I feel like it’s important to talk about this stuff sometimes.

About 2 months ago I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma, a type of breast cancer. I’m only 31, so that came as a big shock. They don’t even recommend starting to get mammograms until you’re in your 40s because the chances are so low at under 40.

After two months of tests involving many needles, scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, mammograms, inpatient surgery and blood tests, it looks like it’s because of a mutation I have in my BRCA2 gene. The BRCA mutations come with a host of other problems and high risk of other cancers in other organs. After a lot of thought, I decided with my team of oncologists to have a double mastectomy to remove all my breast tissue so that I have one less thing in the back of my mind going forward.

The good news is that I caught it very early. My tumor is only about 2cm, about the size of a grape. The surgery I had last month was to check my lymph nodes to see if it has spread, and it hasn’t (hooray for small favors!). The MRI was also clear and didn’t show it spread to other parts of my torso yet. What that means is that the cancer I currently have is ideal, as far as cancer goes, but my long term health is a bit of a question mark. I’ll be having regular scans and tests for the rest of my life, even with the breast tissue gone. After I’ve healed from the double mastectomy, I will need to have my ovaries removed because ovarian cancer is also at an increased rate with this mutation.

It sucks.

It really, really sucks.

But I’m sharing all of this for a reason. I want to encourage everyone to do regular self breast exams. Once a month if not more. If you are a person who gets a period, my advice is to do one right at the start of it, that way you have a biological alarm clock reminding you to do it every month. I’ve heard a lot of people say they have lumpy breasts and aren’t sure if they would know if they felt something. But the thing is, that’s why you should be doing self exams! You will be familiar with what your “normal” is.

I had been doing self exams, one standing while in the shower and one lying down in bed. Here’s the kicker: I could NOT feel my tumor when I was lying down, but I could when I was standing. PLEASE check in both a standing and lying down position. I almost didn’t go to the doctor because I figured I was being paranoid. Don’t talk yourself out of seeing a doctor! I know it can be expensive. I know you might feel dumb if you go in an it’s nothing. But doctors won’t judge you. Even my doctor thought my lump was nothing at first, but he scheduled me for an ultrasound and mammogram just in case. And it’s good he did, because cancer had already set up shop in my boob.

Two months later and I’ve got a whole team of surgeons and oncologists and nurses that I see regularly, medical bills coming out of my butt, I’m missing work, had to cancel my trip to GenCon, put my life on hold for the foreseeable future until I am done with treatment, and have surgery to permanently remove a big chunk of my body on Thursday and will start medication shortly after. But because I found it early, I should not need to do radiation or chemo. That’s HUGE, and it’s all because I noticed it before it had a chance to spread.

TLDR; I have breast cancer, I’m going in for a bilateral mastectomy on August 8th and then begin treatment. I would appreciate any positive thoughts you can spare to be sent my way. Do regular breast self exams. Fuck cancer.

#cancer for filter #(smiles) speaks #fuck cancer #life update #cancer #no but seriously fuck cancer #it sucks #it suuuuuuuuuuuuuuuucks

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your-dietician · 3 years ago

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These Everyday Activities Proven to Cause Cancer, Say Experts

New Post has been published on https://tattlepress.com/health/these-everyday-activities-proven-to-cause-cancer-say-experts/

These Everyday Activities Proven to Cause Cancer, Say Experts

Cancer can leave you feeling helpless, the very concept an anxiety-inducing thing to read about. But we’re glad you clicked on this story, because the Big C is a health condition in which knowledge truly is power.

New research is constantly emerging about how to prevent cancer and catch it early, when it’s most curable. And that extends to risk factors. In recent years, scientists have learned a lot about what raises your risk of developing cancer, in addition to well-known factors like smoking and diet. Eat This, Not That! Health asked experts to reveal the surprising things that affect whether you might get cancer. Here’s what they told us. Read on, and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You Have “Long” COVID and May Not Even Know It.

Drinking Hot Beverages

Cup of hot coffee

“There may be an increased risk of throat cancer with people eating very hot foods and beverages due to the irritants and heat that can stimulate cell damage,” says Thomas Horowitz, MD, of CHA Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center in Los Angeles. Some studies, including one published in the March 2019 International Journal of Cancer, have linked drinking very hot beverages like coffee or tea with an increased risk of esophageal or throat cancer.

The Rx: Rich in antioxidants, coffee and tea can benefit your overall health, support weight loss and help prevent cancer. Just don’t drink them piping-hot.

Menstrual History

woman with stomach ache sitting on sofa

“Early menstruation—periods before age 12—and starting menopause after age 55 expose women to hormones longer, raising their risk of getting breast cancer,” says Nancy Elliott, MD, of the Montclair Breast Center in Montclair, New Jersey.

The Rx: Talk with your doctor about what your menstrual history means for your risk of getting breast cancer, and keep all regular appointments for screening. If you have a child and notice signs of puberty before 12, talk to your pediatrician.

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Dense Breasts

Female Does Cancer Preventive Mammography

“Breast density is determined via mammography, so it’s important to get your annual screening to know your personal composition,” says Elliott. “Abnormalities are harder to find in patients with dense breasts, because both dense tissue and cancer are white. It’s like looking for a snowball in a snowstorm. Additionally, density is a risk factor for cancer — so it’s a double whammy.”

The Rx: In addition to regular mammograms, “we recommend women with dense breasts get supplementary screening, either an ultrasound or (even better) an MRI,” says Elliott.

Drinking Alcohol

woman drinking red wine

“An analysis of 53 studies reported that the relative risk of breast cancer increased by 32% for those with who drink 3 servings per day,” says Elliott. “Compared to women who don’t drink at all, women who have three alcoholic drinks per week have a 15% higher risk of breast cancer.”

Alcohol also raises the risk of several other cancers. “Drinking an excess of alcohol can increase your risk of developing cancer of the mouth, throat, bowel, and most commonly, the liver,” says Janette Nesheiwat, MD, a family and emergency medicine doctor in New York City. “Alcohol damages cells and is toxic to the organs, increasing the chance of cancerous cells forming.”

The Rx: Alcohol may not be a surprising carcinogen, but the amount that constitutes risky drinking might. To reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease, experts recommend moderate alcohol consumption: No more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

Working Near Microwave Dishes

Microwave Communications Dish’s

No, your kitchen microwave doesn’t cause cancer. But microwave transmitters—an entirely different, industrial-strength thing—can raise cancer risk. “One potential cancer risk is working on roofs of buildings where microwave dishes are mounted as transmission devices. One can get exposed to radiation inadvertently when working in front of these, which has been linked to cancer,” says Horowitz.

The Rx: If your work puts you in the vicinity of microwave transmitters, talk with your doctor about limiting health risks.

Spending Too Much Time Sitting

businessman working on his laptop. Handsome young man at his desk

“Long stints of time on the couch, in the chair at work, or sitting in your car can increase the risks of some types of cancer,” says Cara Pensabene, MD, of EHE Health. “In one study, people who spent more than two hours sitting and watching TV had a 70 percent increased risk of developing colorectal cancer.”

The Rx: Experts, including the American Heart Association, recommend that adults get at least 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity (such as running or swimming) or 120 minutes of moderate physical activity (such as brisk walking) each week. If you work a desk job, find ways to be more active during the day, if just standing and walking around more.

Ordering Meat Well Done

well done cooked steak on cutting board

Eating charred meats—whether they’re burgers, steak or chicken—is a cancer risk. “When certain types of meat are cooked to high temperatures, they develop these chemical compounds known as heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs),” says Pensabene. “These chemicals are mutagenic, according to the National Cancer Institute, which means that they affect DNA and may make you more susceptible to certain types of cancer.”

The Rx: When grilling meat, say “when” before it’s blackened. You can also take steps to reduce the formation of cancer-causing compounds while you’re prepping: Before putting meat on the grill, marinate it for half an hour, or zap it in the microwave for a few minutes. And speaking of red meat, read on to discover how much is healthy to eat.

Pregnancy

pregnant african american woman drinking green vegetable juice or smoothie at home

“Many women don’t realize pregnancy, or lack thereof, also affects their risk of breast cancer. If your first pregnancy is after age 30, you never breastfed, or you never have a full-term pregnancy, your risk increases,” says Elliott. “As women have children later in life, this is something to keep in mind.”

The Rx: Talk with your doctor about what your childbearing history means for your breast-cancer risk. Follow their recommendations about screening.

Sleeping With the TV On

Young woman sleeping passed out on couch after watching tv with a food coma

“According to a study published in Environmental Health Perspectives, men who are exposed to more light at night have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer,” says Pensabene. “More research is needed, but it’s suspected that exposure to artificial light during sleep interferes with melatonin production and the natural sleep cycle, which can have affect antioxidant levels in the body.”

The Rx: Try to sleep in darkness, undisturbed by the TV or bright night lights.

Always Skipping Salad

mixed green salad in glass bowl no dressing

Consuming dietary fiber isn’t just about staying regular—it’s also a potent cancer fighter. “Eating a diet that is not sufficient in fiber, fruits and green leafy vegetables can possibly lead to colon cancer,” says Nesheiwat. “Vitamins and minerals in plant-based foods act as antioxidants to help fight free radicals, or atoms that cause damage to cells. Lack of this healthy protective fiber can increase your risk of free radicals and can ultimately cause cancer.”

The Rx: Experts say women should aim to consume 28 grams of fiber per day, and men 35.

Getting Even Occasional Sunburns

elderly women Wearing blue sunglasses Walking around the sea

“Even getting a sunburn just once every two years can increase your risk of skin cancer nearly threefold, including melanoma skin cancer,” says Christopher Zoumalan, MD, a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon based in Beverly Hills, California.

The Rx: “Be your own health advocate by conducting regular self-exams, and if you find anything suspicious, see a board-certified dermatologist,” says Zoumalan. “Avoid sunburns, tanning and UV tanning beds. Cover up with clothing when you go outside, including a hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. Use a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen to your entire body, with an SPF of 30 or higher.”

Using Toothpaste With This Ingredient

Toothpaste on toothbrush

“Toothpaste or oral products that contain triclosan have been recalled by the FDA for its link to cancer as well as endocrine diseases,” says Dr. Rhonda Kalasho of Glo Modern Dentistry in Los Angeles. “I recommend discontinuing the use of any such products that contain that triclosan. It is used to kill bad breath odor and is even found in some facial antibacterial soaps, as well as hand soaps.”

The Rx: “In 2016 the FDA restricted consumer products that contain the dangerous chemical, and by 2017 they also restricted the chemical in health care settings,” says Kalasho. “However, some of the products could still be out there, so you should remain vigilant.”

Eating Oats Sprayed With This Chemical

Pouring oats into bowl to measure portion on scale

“Glyphosate is a pesticide sprayed on many crops, including wheat and corn, which we eat as part of a ‘healthy’ diet,” says Terhune. “A study in 2019 measured glyphosate exposure in breakfast cereals and found that every cereal they tested went above the safety limits for children. Glyphosate disrupts our beneficial gut microbiome and impacts our immune system defenses. Glyphosate has now been legally linked in many lawsuits of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma patients.”

The Rx: Opt for organic oats, grains and vegetables whenever possible.

Not Getting Enough Sleep

Woman having trouble sleeping

Why do we feel so rested after a good sleep? That’s because the body repairs itself — fixing cellular damage, sweeping toxins out of the brain and ensuring our metabolism stays on track. When you don’t get enough shut-eye, all kinds of bodily processes suffer. Poor sleep has been connected to an increased risk of heart disease and cancer.

The Rx: Experts, including the National Sleep Foundation, say that adults of every age need seven to nine hours of sleep a night—no more, no less.

Working the Night Shift

Businessman working overtime in office.

Researchers believe that sleeping at night replenishes our stores of melatonin, a hormone that regulates the body’s circadian rhythms and seems to have a role in preventing cancer. Studies have found that people who work at night and sleep during the day have an increased risk of cancer. In 2007 the World Health Organization classified night shift work as a probable carcinogen because of that circadian disruption.

The Rx: If you work nights, talk with your doctor about how it may affect your cancer risk.

Processed Meat

bacon strips on grill

Bacon, ham, hot dogs, sausages, salami—all those staples of a All-American diet we all grew up with—are now considered as big a cancer risk as cigarettes. Literally. The World Health Organization has named processed meat a Group 1 carcinogen, the same as tobacco, because there’s evidence that consuming them regularly can lead to colorectal cancer. How? Researchers believe that nitrites, used as a preservative for processed meat, interact with natural compounds in the food to create a cancer-causing chemical.

The Rx: The American Institute for Cancer Research says you should not regularly consume processed meat including ham, bacon, salami, hot dogs and sausages, as any amount raises cancer risk. “AICR recommends avoiding bacon and other processed meats, saving them for special occasions,” says the organization.

Red Meat

ribeye steak dinner with potatoes on wood board

Even eating red meat that isn’t processed—including steak, burgers, lamb and pork—has been associated with an increased cancer risk.

The Rx: The American Institute for Cancer Research recommends limiting red meat consumption to no more than 18 ounces per week.

Having CT Scans While Young

CT (Computed tomography) scanner in hospital laboratory.

A CT scan is like a chest Xray on steroids: CTs use radiation to create 3D images of the body, and they’re useful in detecting issues that were previously only discoverable with exploratory surgery. But a 2013 Australian study, which looked at the medical histories of 11 million people, found having one CT scan before the age of 20 raised a person’s lifetime risk for cancer by 24 percent. The higher the radiation exposure and the younger the person, the greater the risk.

The Rx: Experts urge caution about those findings. CT technology has improved over time, and most doctors prescribe them only when absolutely necessary. But if you’re being asked to undergo multiple CTs, it’s reasonable to ask if low- or no-radiation scans like ultrasound or MRI can be used instead.

Ejaculation Frequency

Sperms viewed from the microscope

In a study published in the journal European Urology, researchers looked at the self-reported ejaculation frequency of 1,000 men. They found that men who reported more than 21 ejaculations per month had a 31 percent lower risk of prostate cancer than men who ejaculated four to seven times a month.

The Rx: First, remember that correlation is not causation. Science hasn’t conclusively proven that infrequent ejaculation is a prostate cancer risk, although researchers theorize that ejaculating may clear the prostate of toxins and irritants. And most men would argue that upping that frequency definitely wouldn’t hurt.

A Common STD

Doctor and patient

The sexually transmitted infection trichomoniasis is very common. About 3.7 million Americans have the infection, caused by the protozoan T. vaginalis, and only 30 percent will develop symptoms. More concerning: A 2014 study found that T. vaginalis secretes a protein that promotes inflammation in the prostate and stokes the growth of both benign and cancerous prostate cells. In a 2009 study, 25 percent of men diagnosed with prostate cancer tested positive for T. vaginalis infection and were more likely to have an aggressive form of the disease.

The Rx: Although the science hasn’t found a conclusive link, if you’re sexually active and may have been exposed to trichomoniasis, talk to your doctor about your risk factors and the benefits of regular STI testing.

Acid Reflux

woman having or symptomatic reflux acids,Gastroesophageal reflux disease, drinking water

Heartburn, or acid reflux—in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing burning or pain in the chest or throat—is often considered a simple nuisance. But over time, stomach acid can damage sensitive tissue, leading to a precancerous condition called Barrett’s esophagus. That could develop into esophageal cancer.

The Rx: If you suffer from regular heartburn, talk to your doctor. They might recommend a prescription, lifestyle changes or further testing.

Coffee

male creative sits by window having coffee

Coffee may be an underrated cancer fighter, thanks to its high antioxidant content. In a meta-analysis of studies published in the journal BMC Cancer, regular coffee consumption was linked to a reduction in risk of at least 11 types of cancer, including breast, colon, pancreatic, esophageal and prostate. And a November 2015 study in Circulation found that coffee consumption was associated with an 8% to 15% reduction in the risk of death overall, with larger reductions among those who drank more.

The Rx: Drink up. Just try not to drink caffeinated beverages after noon, as it’ll affect your sleep.

Sugary Beverages

Woman hand giving one glass of Soft drinks with ice. and one Glass with ice in glass ready to refresh you

You may know that drinking too many sugary beverages, like soda, increases your risk for obesity and diabetes. But a March 2019 study published in the journal Circulation found an association between sugary drink consumption and cancer. Each 12-ounce serving of sugary drinks consumed was associated with a 7 percent increased risk of death from any cause, and a 5 percent increased risk for death from cancer.

The Rx: Skip sugary beverages, and shun those with artificial sweeteners as well—they come with health risks of their own. Hydrate with tap water, seltzers, or homemade fruit-infused H2O.

Sleeping Pills

Man sitting on bed about to take sleeping pill or night medicine. Suffering from insomnia

Some studies have linked the use of hypnotic (a.k.a. sleep-inducing) drugs with an increased risk of cancer and death. Researchers haven’t found the exact connection, but why risk it?

The Rx: There are several sleep-hygiene strategies you can follow before requesting a prescription for sleeping pills. They include meditation, relaxation techniques, and avoiding screens for the hour before bed. If you’re having trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor about them.

RELATED: Sure Signs You May Have Dementia, According to the CDC

Ignoring Your Family History

Fill out the family history section in the medical questionnaire

If your parents had a particular illness, there’s no guarantee you’ll get it too. But there is a genetic component to certain conditions like heart disease, diabetes and particular cancers.

The Rx: Make sure your doctor knows about your family history of serious illness, and ask if any screening tests are warranted.

Not Getting Colon Cancer Screening

Probe colonoscope. Doctor gastroenterologist with probe to perform gastroscopy and colonoscopy

What’s the primary risk factor for colon cancer? Age: Your risk of the disease rises significantly after age 50. When detected early (as localized polyps), colon cancer is one of the easiest forms of cancer to cure.

The Rx: The American Cancer Society recommends that you get your first colonoscopy at age 45, and repeat it every 10 years. Your doctor may have different recommendations based on your family background and personal medical history.

HPV

Doctor vaccinating women in hospital

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 79 million American men and women are infected with HPV (human papillomavirus), the most common sexually transmitted infection. HPV can lead to genital warts and cancer in both men and women—including cancers of the cervix, penis, anus and throat.

The Rx: HPV is so common that most adults are exposed by the time they’re in their 20s. But because six different strains of HPV cause most HPV-related cancers—and the FDA has recently cleared the HPV vaccine up to age 45—getting vaccinated might be beneficial if you’re sexually active. If you’re concerned about HPV-related cancer, talk with your doctor.

RELATED: The #1 Cause of Diabetes, According to Science

Uncircumcised Sexual Partners

couple in live holding hads while lying in bed together

“Partners of uncircumcised men have a higher risk of cervical cancer,” says Horowitz. Why? According to a 2017 review of studies published in the Lancet, researchers found that circumcised men were less likely to contract HPV (human papillomavirus), which causes most cases of cervical cancer.

The Rx: HPV is so common that most adults contract it by their early 20s. But some forms can cause cancer, so it’s important to talk with your doctor about your risk factors and regular testing.

The Epstein-Barr Virus

Blood sample positive with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)

“One really lesser-known thing that can contribute specifically to Hodgkin’s Disease is the Epstein-Barr (or mono) virus,” says Kylene Terhune, FDNP, CPT, a nutritionist and certified personal trainer who herself had Hodgkin’s. “This is a virus that in most people lays dormant and inactive after experiencing an acute bout of mono, but in some it can become reactivated under stress, such as food sensitivities or emotional or physical stress.”

The Rx: If you’ve had mono or EBV, talk with your doctor about how to stay healthy. “Someone with chronic EBV should become aware of how to manage it and support their body, since it’s been associated with up to 40% of Hodgkin’s cases,” says Terhune.

RELATED: The #1 Cause of Heart Attack, According to Science

Hormone Replacement Therapy

For decades it was prescribed regularly to older women to ease symptoms of menopause like hot flashes and decreased sexual desire. Today, experts say hormone replacement therapy is associated with a higher risk of breast, ovarian and endometrial cancer.

The Rx: “Well-conducted studies have led many doctors to conclude that the risks of MHT often outweigh the benefits,” says the American Cancer Society. But it has issued no guidelines about menopausal hormone therapy, stating that the decision should be up to a woman and her doctor after discussing the risks and benefits. And to get through this pandemic at your healthiest, don’t miss these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.

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katiejtravis-blog · 7 years ago

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Why I'm Choosing to Chop Off My Boobs.

Aunt Louann, Aunt Lydie, Aunt Julie, Aunt Amy. These are the brave women in my family who have battled Breast Cancer. Three out of these amazing four women were diagnosed in their mid-thirties. Three out of these fierce four women ultimately did not survive. I'm not trying to be dramatic and I'm not trying to depress you...but this is a cancer related blog post. Nobody likes a depressing blog, so I'll spoil the ending quickly by telling you that on October 18, I will be chopping off my boobs, Angelina Jolie style. Let's be honest, she's a badass. So I'll be channeling my inner Jolie these next few months as I go through this journey. If you haven't read her article, here it is: https://mobile.nytimes.com/2013/05/14/opinion/my-medical-choice.html The good news is, I'm totally healthy. The "meh" news, is that I am a carrier of the BRCA gene mutation. (BRCA2, to get specific.) BRACA stands for BReast CAncer Suseptibility. Here are a few fun (not fun) facts according to www.knowbrca.org about being a BRCA carrier.

-"About 1 in every 500 women in the United States has either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation."

But you see, for me, as "not fun" as these facts are, the amazing thing is that there are options to do something about it. I know what I am susceptible to. It is possible that having breast cancer could be my "fate." But the beautiful thing, is that I can live my life with that knowledge and do all that I can to keep living as long and full of a life as possible. After I found out I was a "BRCA babe," (as some women online call themselves) I was given some options as to how to have a little "control" with the knowledge of being BRCA positive. The options were the following- 1. Early Detection. This means doing rotations of MRIs and Mammograms at least twice a year, in addition to ovarian surveillance.

Essentially, the way the Geneticist put it was, "When we catch it, we will catch it early."

*Fun (not fun) fact to mention-this is a higher amount of radiation being put on an already susceptible area of my body. Although it's a perfectly normal and healthy option, this choice alone didn't sit right with me.

2. Hormonal Therapy Medications- Tamoxifen, specifically was recommended by my geneticist. Other options are Evista (Not to be confused with "Evita"..Musical Theater NERD over here.), Aromasin, and Arimidex. The trouble for me is-they impact your ability to have children for 5-7 years.

*Fun (not fun) fact is that after all of this ovary and kid talk, it made me feel deeply about wanting kids some day. I ended a relationship, in fact, because of this. (A story for another day.)

3. The Chopping off of the Boobies (My very medical term)-According to www.breastcancer.org, "Preventive or "prophylactic" mastectomy, or removal of both breasts, has been found to reduce the risk of breast cancer in high-risk women by about 90%."

*Fun (not fun) facts-You can't breast feed and you most likely lose sensation on your breasts. OK. I read the numbers. I looked at the options. To me, it felt obvious. At the time, I was playing Christine Daae in the North American Tour of Phantom of the Opera. Because of this job, I had and still have amazing insurance with Cigna. *ACTUAL FUN FACT-Cigna covers this surgery and the reconstruction. I repeat. Cigna covers this surgery and the reconstruction. As time continues, I will write more about the specifics of the surgery. It's probably important to mention that I write this from a hotel room in Qatar. Yes, Qatar. Tomorrow I will arrive in Tanzania, and in a little over a day I will begin climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. I want to move mountains and climb mountains and make, and build and change the world. I want a life with meaning. And I want as long a life as possible. I want important, deep and meaningful relationships. I want to chase my dreams and tell my friends they can chase theirs too. I want to be healthy. And I want to recognize how lucky it is to be healthy. I want to LIVE. Aunt Louann, Aunt Lydie, Aunt Julie, Aunt Amy. These women bravely paved the way to give me information about my genetic makeup. Because of their struggle, I'm making this choice. I'm chopping off my boobs, because I'm choosing to live. (More soon) KT

My inner Jolie is coming OUT this fall.

Oh you know, just trying to be sexy in my MRI gown. (Please excuse the tampon behind me.😝)

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motivatehopestrength · 6 years ago

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It‘s beginning to feel like a big prank. I am looking around for someone, or maybe something like a hidden camera because I love a good joke. But it could be karma or some kind of payback, or maybe it‘s just you God, testing me again? For what, I‘d sure like to know. Seriously, who is this puppet master behind this life debacle and what exactly is it that I did to be thrown all these crappy things over the last few years? I‘ll admit I was a mean girl in high school when I kissed Suzi‘s boyfriend Bill. But I only kissed the guy once, I didn’t screw him. They even got married!!! Meanwhile look at who got cheated on and divorced. And how about that surprise open heart surgery tossed my way in 2016? That was no walk in the park. Seriously, I just finished paying my medical bills and along comes another one of life‘s surprises. Enough with testing my strength. It’s weakening my savings account by paying lawyers and medical bills. Money that needs to instead be going towards two weddings and a facelift. Who or what decided it was time to pull an Alan Funt with a “Surprise… You have breast Cancer.” (for those of you under the age of 50 insert Ashton Kutcher for Alan Funt) Regardless of the 5 Ws, I am shocked because I know I am not being punk’d but once again being tested. Someone is really trying to break me. However, I am a competitor and I love a challenge. Let me remind you, I hate to lose and my track record reflects that fact. So cancer, you probably should have checked with Karma, God, Suzi and even my ex-husband because they all would have told you, you picked the wrong bitch. I fight hard and I fight dirty. I am a Philly girl. #fucancer #bringit

A LUMP OF FAT ( and it goes a little something like that)

While on vacation in Iceland, I felt a slight pain on my left side of my chest. I see several heart doctors who routinely ask “Are you experiencing any chest pain?” My answer is always no, and I always find this a rather strange question. The doctors have all told me that my heart is strong and healthy and that I just had a bad valve. So I‘ve never looked for nor worried about chest pain. However, being out of the US, I began to worry. This slight pang came and went so I remained calm knowing in less than 24 hours I would be hearing the pilot say “Welcome to Philadelphia.” Once back in the City of Brotherly Love, my plan was to call my cardiologist first thing in the morning. However, that quickly changed to my gynecologist when I discovered that evening that this dull pain was not coming from my heart but rather an oddly shaped lump in my left breast. Oh boy was I relieved.

To say I know my body is huge understatement. My unknown congenital heart defect began to show signs when I was in my mid-forties and the complaints I voiced to my doctors were dismissed constantly for 6 years with them all telling me I’m fine, it’s stress and of course the reason all women are crazy…MENOPAUSE. Turned out it was a bicuspid aortic valve that formed an aortic aneurysm. This thankfully a new doctor caught it in time before it had ruptured. From May of 2017 up to my diagnosis of breast cancer on February 2018 I had this eerie deja vu feeling. Instead of hearing the words “You‘re fine“, I heard “There’s nothing there.” First, after having a breast exam by my Gynecologist I was sent for a diagnostic mammogram and an ultra sound of my left breast. All of these tests came back normal showing no mass. So, I was told to wait 4 months until my next visit because it was “probably a lump of fat or a lymph node” and “would likely go away on its own.” When I was still feeling the lump 4 months later in September I was sent to see a breast surgeon. I was excited that this appointment would give me peace of mind and a definitive answer as to what this lump could be. I was, after all, seeing “Philly’s Top Doc” of breast surgeons so she should know, right? Ushered quickly into an examining room I am informed that the doctor has a meeting so she needs to see me right now. My vitals will be taken “after” the doctor examines me. “Everything off from the waist down. Ties open in front.” I am handed the gown in a plastic bag in which I change into and I sit hopeful, my legs dangling off the end of the table and my boobs dangling in my gown. Without even looking at my face, the doctor entered the room, introduced herself as she went to the sink and washed her hands. She asked me a couple of questions. “Does breast cancer run in your family?” “No,” I said. I was instructed to lay back. Normal for a breast exam. When did you first feel the lump? “The end of March, but I need to stand up to find the lump for you.” She told me to sit up, and I watched as she quickly made some notes on the computer and then stood up and walked to the door. The “Top Doc,” said she really doesn’t feel anything and that it’s probably a lump of fat or a lymph-node and that I should come back in a few months if I’m still feeling anything. Before I could get a question out she was gone. She did have a meeting. “But Doctor… can I get an MRI?” I have questions, “umm is she coming back in? What about my vitals?” These questions weren’t really asked. No one came back for me to ask them too. I tossed my lovely gown in the bin, got dressed and left. Vitals? Not taken. My blood pressure was HIGH! I did however go get that second opinion you should always get. Surgeon number two and her tech could not find a mass on the ultrasound, so once again I was told it’s probably a fatty deposit or a lymph-node. This time I asked the doctor for an MRI but am told to come back in 6 months if I still feel something. As I leave, I am frustrated but know regardless I will not be back to this hospital, they don’t even have a Starbucks.

PAGING DR. GOOGLE & MS. KNOW-IT-ALL

To speak beyond ones sphere of knowledge is called a ultracrepidarian. Dates back to the story of Apelles, a famous greek painter who heard a cobbler criticizing how he had rendered a foot in a painting. The painter remarked back to the cobbler that he should stay in his own station and not go “beyond the sole“, hence the latin phrase ultra crepidam. Often, when I am running my mouth about something I just made up, half read, googled, might have overheard, my really good friends will laugh in my face knowing I am talking “out my ass“, hence the verb “bullshitter”.

My daily research on breast lumps, bumps and lymph nodes was giving me a feeling deep in my gut that I needed to be persistent, so I kept an appointment I made way over 3 months ago and went and saw surgeon number three. I was prepared to be an ultracrepidarian. Sitting in the exam room, I knew I wanted an MRI, and therefore wasn’t leaving without being sent for one. Petite Dr. Julia Tpchou entered the room and I don’t just jump on her, I attack. Full on crazy patient with tears. Here‘s where the movie director will add the violins: For 6 years I saw zillions of doctors complaining about not feeling well, only to find out I had a BAV and an aneurysm. I know my body! There’s a lump in my breast that should not be there. It’s not fat! I know my body! I know that mammograms are 87% correct in identifying breast cancer (I just threw that stat in my blog) and all of my ultrasounds shown nothing but I can feel the lump. I know my body! Dr. Tpchou told me that when she was in medical school a professor taught her that when a patient says they know their body, they usually do. Thanks Mr. Professor. She examined me thoroughly and she felt the lump, and she sent me for an MRI. That Friday afternoon following my MRI, I received a phone call from an office assistant with the results of my test. Great news. My MRI report was normal.

“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” Edgar Degas

THE RENDERING WAS WRONG. THE COBBLER WAS RIGHT!

That Monday morning following my Friday afternoon call, I received a call that Dr. Tchou wanted to see me at the hospital immediately, so I knew something was up. I finished training a client and drove straight to The University of Pennsylvania Hospital. Over the weekend, Dr. Tchou explained that when she saw that my MRI report had come back normal, without even a “suspicious mass“ noted, she decided to look herself at the MRI images. She pulls up my MRI on the computer. With my eyes focused on the screen she fired away at the enlarge key, and I watched as this tiny white dot appeared and grew bigger. “There’s your lump.” Finally a doctor who listened. I was scheduled for an ultra sound guided needle biopsy. University of Pennsylvania being a teaching hospital, usually has a fellow who checks on you before the attending physician. “The lump gets lost when I lie down.” This fell on deaf ears. The fellow, although determined to locate the lump on the ultrasound, did not succeed. Moments later the Radiologist entered. Petite woman, with a rather large presence, and she says to me “find the lump.” I need to stand to find it, so she firmly says, “Stand up. Find it. Put your thumb on it.” She took the cold, gelled probe, placed it firmly right where my thumb was and instantly started measuring the white looking image, aka: lump that appeared on the sonogram screen. In what was her last year of residency, the young doctor commented to me how she learned something new today. Was it that you can do a breast ultra sound to a standing patient, or that you should listen to what a patient has to say? Days later I found out that all six samples from my ultra sound guided needle biopsy had all come back inconclusive. I would next be scheduled for a lumpectomy. You know to remove a lump of fat.

BIG GIRLS DO CRY

I am told that I wear a tough exterior, but these past few years I know I have become softer inside. I cry a lot easier, which according to the real Dr. Google is hormonal. But the kind of crying that takes your breath away, leaves you unable to speak, feels like a panic attack… well, that has only happened twice to me. The first being when I put my dog Rocki down, and the second was when Dr. Tpchou phoned and told me that I had breast cancer. When I finally caught my breath, I replied “I really did not expect “it” to come back positive. I know what you’re thinking. Really Hope? Yes really! No one in my family has ever had cancer. Sitting on a Bosu ball in the private place where I went to take this call, an empty aerobic room, I looked at myself in the mirror and thought this can’t be happening. I call my very quiet, kindhearted boyfriend who not only listened to my crazy lump stuff for the last 6 months, but also spent his birthday sitting in a hospital while I had my lumpectomy. In-between sobs I very angrily tell him that I’m not a hypochondriac and “it” wasn’t a fucking “lump of fat.” I HAVE FUCKING BREAST CANCER and yes, I was right. I‘m always right! It wasn’t nothing and go ahead dump me. He should dump me. I would dump my sick ass. We’re not married so here‘s your chance to get out now. RUN! I won’t be mad at you. When I was done with my well justified rant, he assured me he wasn’t going anywhere because he said “That would be really bad juju.” “Ok then, sniff sniff You know I am so fucking mad.” He knew. With my adrenaline up I stuck my headphones back in walked out of the aerobic room and finished lifting. #chestday I did not tell my family, friends or announce it on Facebook. I knew nothing so there was nothing to tell. But what I did confirm is I have a few special people in my life whom I cannot thank enough for their help from my appointments to answering my questions to just being there. In February, 9 months after I first discovered that darn lump I had a lumpectomy, followed a few weeks later with a lymphadenectomy. The latter is done to see if the cancer had spread into my lymph nodes. Thankfully it had not. While I personally experienced more pain and difficulty in healing from my lymphadenectomy, I did not have a mastectomy, and would not dare to compare my procedures to the surgery of a mastectomy.

THERE IS NO “I” IN TEAM

Lumpectomy, Lymphadectomy & Proton Radiation (skin reaction 2 weeks after Proton partially due to sweaty jog bras)

Now

A slice of my tumor was mailed off to a lab for an Oncotype DX breast cancer test. The information gathered from this test would determine my cancer treatment. I needed this test to come back with a number that would allow me to skip chemo and jump right to radiation. While most patients discuss the side effects of their treatment with their doctors, I just needed to know if I would complete my treatment in time to go on a safari in Africa. For this amazing trip, tops on my bucket list, I was lucky to be asked to be part of prior to my diagnosis. The results of this tests held that answer. I sat weeks waiting for my oncotype score (because of a mix up) but finally got the results. I would not need chemo and that meant a shorter treatment plan. This was a giving me hope for Africa. It was now time to meet my “C” team. To my list of doctors I now add an Oncologist, Radiation Oncologist, and a Cardiology Oncologist. The last doctor, who will approve my treatments, Dr. Joseph Carver, wears giant red Beat-like cordless stethoscope headphones. His specialty is cardiac problems and cancer. He is my bonus doc because of my heart valve replacement and other leaky valves.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN

As if I was just here yesterday, I ran around the busy Perlman Center alone at Pennsylvania Hospital. Dressed in my work clothes (gym clothes), there I am squeezing in and out of crowded elevators, grasping my files, holding my Starbucks, running up and down the escalator, dropping papers, meeting doctors, googling words, spilling my coffee on myself, scheduling test appointments, checking my Facebook, and ducking familiar faces all while thinking, “is this for real?” The only things that have changed were the locations of the waiting rooms and the doctors. First, I see the quarterback of my team, my Oncologist. She sketched everything out for me. Explained and confirmed that there was nothing I did that gave me cancer. Not even drinking from the hose while playing outside as a kid. Having lost my period at 43 years old this caused me to enter menopause at a rather early age, and therefore produce higher levels of estrogen, which most likely fed the tumor causing it to grow. I found this tumor that wanted to hide and a lot had to do with having low body fat, and the pain I felt causing me to explore that area. But it was also found with persistence. Had I been older, heavier, would I have found it? Would I have listened to the doctors and have been satisfied with what they were saying along with the normal test results? My doctor assures me that my cancer cell being fed earlier gave it a chance to be found earlier and that was actually a good thing. I caught it at at stage one.

When cancer came calling I was ready. Since I live with the belief that exercise is a gift and something you should not take for granted, I am always in training for life. Knowing I have an upcoming open heart surgery within the next 8 to 10 years, possibly sooner, I will be prepared. As with most health issues, it’s always quite fascinating how several people can have almost the same exact diagnosis, and yet have totally different methods of treatment and recovery. Your overall health plays a major role in this. For my game plan, I sat with Dr. Gary Freedman and he sketched out for me several radiation options. All of the standard treatment plans would span 8 to 10 weeks. However, in a circle on the right side of the paper was the word “PROTONS.” Explaining the difference between photons and protons, Dr. Freedman informed me that I was an excellent candidate for Proton therapy. This treatment would in fact be a better option for keeping the radiation away from my heart. He offered me twice a day treatments, early morning and again later in the day that I could bang out in one week. I could hear the elephants from the savannah at that moment. Timing was perfect. I’d finish with enough time to grab my safari hat and my anti-malaria meds. But before I began any treatment I needed to tell my home team, my “A” team, my daughters. Tell them why an awful lot of their calls have gone to voicemail this past year, and why I’ve seemed so short lately. I have one living in NYC and one away at PSU, and I am their only parent. So I must do what I do best at times like this…..lie. I just found this little lump in my breast and the doctor took it out. (Insert joke and laugh) it was a little cancer, blah blah blah, it’s gone, went bye bye. Mom’s all good now. Just going to get a couple quick zaps of radiation before I go away….. And like deja vu from a few years ago when I gave my “I’m having a little heart procedure” speech, it worked perfectly for one of my two favorite daughters. Cue: violins, beating drums and cello …..Tears, anger, and fear.

THE WORLD AIN’T ALL SUNSHINE AND RAINBOWS

Wanted: women of Russian/European decent for extras in Creed II, being filmed in Philadelphia. According to my mom mom, and backed up by my Ancestry.com results this describes me. I love the movie Rocky, named my female boxer Rocki, and have seen all of the Rocky movies. This is my chance to use that college theatre degree and hopefully see Sylvester Stallone and Dolph. So what are my odds of receiving an email saying I was selected to be an extra for Creed II and it’s in the middle of my proton therapy? I‘ll tell you, according to real data much smaller than this Askenazi Jew of Russian decent getting breast cancer. FU cancer! #iwillbreaku

I thought I was strong and could do this myself, but apparently I was wrong. The 6am driving into the city was easy. I would come home and train one or two clients, workout, shower and then drive back for round two. While I was told, fatigue would kick in by mid week; it never did. Nor did it really kick in the following week. The metallic taste came quickly by day two. But seeing all of the children with cancer, nothing could prepare me for that, and the sadness that still resonates inside of me.

There are five treatment rooms that contain four gantries or cyclone machines and two waiting areas. That week I sat in the same waiting area with the pediatric cancer patients from The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia dressed in my hospital gown and them in their own little gowns. Children of all different ages. A college kid popped in every day in-between his classes. I listened one day as he sat talking to a parent giving her hopes that her daughter would get the same positive outcome he was having. I’ll never forget my second treatment on my first day. When I came out of the dressing room in my gown, an entire family filled the patient waiting area. This little boy, about six, was giving a tour of his super cool looking proton cyclone to his huge family. They had all come to celebrate his last treatment. “They look like spinning space tunnels”, I said to his parents. I learned that he and most kids didn’t know the cyclone spins because they wear a molded mask to keep them immobilized and often use headphones to listen to music.

Making My Mold

These masks, some painted by the patient to look like a fake super hero, hung along side my body mold and too many other real super hero’s masks all week. When the little hero rang the bell, which is a distance away in the main lobby area, I was laying in my proton bed awaiting the beam, but I heard the bell, the applause and the cheering. It was a beautiful ring. I knew I was a lucky mom and a lucky woman. That week, twice a day I sat in the waiting room like the kids in a routine matter and when one of the Proton techs said “Hey Hope… Let’s do this.” I too would pop up and go into the space tunnel. Cause I too thought it was really cool.

Hey Nike, this is what a fitness addict looks like. My athletic apparel took me from the gym floor to the cyclone, and back to the gym. I even taught a spin class.

JUSTDOIT

DOING

On my last day I thanked the wonderful technicians who pulled, pushed and aligned my body up so precisely for the proton beam. With my left arm stabilized over my head and my bare boobs marked up, tattooed up and stickered up, I would wait for the beam to be directed to my cyclone. Every treatment seemed surreal. On my final day I bent down to say goodbye to a little boy about age 7, who was playing a video game on the floor. He had a brain tumor that had grown back for the third time and now he was trying Proton therapy at Penn. “Hey buddy I never ever want to see you here again. Ok?” Ok, strange lady, is what I’m sure he was thinking as he looked at me oddly and then went back to his video game. His mom told me that everyone says that to him, but he doesn’t get it. I think to myself, that’s a good thing.

Friday night around 6 pm at the time when most people are rushing home from work or to happy hour to hang with friends I concluded my proton therapy. Check out from this weeks stay included one last visit with Dr. Gary Freedman, who is the brilliant doctor that prescribed my beam’s precise pathway, it’s dose calculations, and everything needed to stop the protons in the bad area and keep the healthy organs and tissues healthy. While knowing that I do still have follow up appointments with my other doctors regarding future treatment, I ask Dr. Freedman the magic question, “Do I still have cancer?” He tells me I am a survivor. So like a little kid, on my last day I showed off my super cool cyclone spaceship to my daughter and my boyfriend who came to celebrate my final treatment with me. We then headed straight to the usually very crowded lobby so I could go ring that big silver bell. I pushed open the door and proclaim a big WTF? It’s 6:30pm on a Friday night the lobby is bare. The pranks just keep on coming. I rang the fuck out of that bell. ( Actually God it would have been even more funnier and pathetic if Madison and Kevin had not been there and I had to go ask someone to take my picture)

THE BIG “C”

Cancer, yet another eye opener in my life. I got even more clarity on where I stand in peoples lives. Your actions, not your intent, not what you post on social media, or who you claim to be, speaks louder to me now. Busy people make time for people that are important in their lives. Selfish people are always too busy, and only make time for themselves. Having a stressful day or a bad week is not an excuse for rude behavior. It’s called being a selfish asshole. Have a blessed day, you’re not sitting having cancer treatment.

I discovered I had this lack of knowledge about cancer and the medical “scientific facts”, and was woken up to people’s ignorance they are willing to spew from non-scientific sources. I do not have cancer from food, medicine, surgery, traveling, or too much exercise. Using organic soap and essential oils would not have prevented me from getting cancer. #womenlovewastingmoney Yes, people asked me some of these questions. Yes, I am a trainer. Yes, I am well aware I‘m not as strong or cut as I use to be I don’t need you to point this out. I‘ve been kinda busy. Yes, I eat a healthy diet. No, I am not giving up meat. There is no scientific evidence that changing your diet to just eating “alkaline” rich foods such as fruit, green vegetables, and other plant-based products discourages the growth of cancer cells by raising blood pH levels. This is not going to change the pH levels of your blood, because they are tightly regulated by the kidneys and lungs regardless of foods consumed. While a good diet is always important, it can’t cure cancer. (Please stop saying that a certain food “cures” cancer) There are cancerous cells in the body of every person that at any given moment and through lifestyle choices can become a full-blown disease. Some these cells will divide and become abnormal and cause cancer for no reason other than bad luck. Breast cancer does not run in my family. I am the first one to have been dealt this unlucky card. That does not mean my daughters will get breast cancer. So before you ask, I did get genetic tested. In fact I got the entire breast cancer panel test done which included the following genes: ATM, BRCA1, BRCA2, CDH1, CHEK2, PALB2, PTEN, STK11, TP53 (a total of 9 genes). All were negative. Regardless, this does not mean I will not get any of these cancers; it just means I am not carrying the gene. Just as if any had come back positive, it does not positively mean I will get that cancer. It just means I carry a gene and depending on other factors my odds would increase. Having a genetic counselor through Penn’s Cancer Risk Program conduct these tests, and a full evaluation of me and my families medical history pertaining to cancer and discuss how this all works was very comforting and informative. Probably fewer mastectomies would occur if all women had access to these tests and also had genetic counseling. #healthcareforall

ON WEDNESDAY’S I WEAR BLACK (Actually everyday I wear black)

Around the same time I received my diagnosis of Stage 1 breast cancer a friend was diagnosed with a much more invasive cancer. It sucks that my friend’s battle is tougher, and all I can do is drop off food, a FUCK CANCER tee and drag her out to dinner and a cabaret. #thecountessandfriends There’s no ribbon for her rare cancer. Plenty of pink ones for mine. I find nothing pretty in pink about cancer and am not one to be a member of this pink ladies gang. It is, however, the color associated with the most successful marketing for a cause in history, raising a lot of money in the name of breast cancer awareness, but not for prevention and finding a cure. Despite all the pink products being sold, each year 40,000 women die from breast cancer.

While breast cancer is one of the top 4 cancers, it is lung cancer that kills more men and women than breast cancer and the other three top cancers combined. Just saying the word “cancer”, one feels they must whisper. She has cancer.But no one whispers she has heart disease. Heart disease is the number one killer of all women, more than all cancers combined. I‘m all for saving the tata‘s, but if the heart ain’t beating do I really care about my breast? Being that there are over 100 types of cancer can we just agree they all suck, wear a black ribbon for all of them, and have 100% of the money raised go to finding a cure for this awful disease? Please? Oh, that’s already taken by skin cancer.

Another storm survived. More contacts to the list, more tests pre-scheduled and now these awful meds I am being told I should take to prevent breast cancer from coming back. But who knows what storms lie ahead or in my body, and if there is anything to stop that storm from coming.

9/18 Post MRI Coast Looks Clear

If I learned anything this past year, it would be that no matter how physically prepared I am, I might not be mentally prepared to have the words when fate is questioned. I don’t need to always have the right words or the right answer but I will always speak from my soul and of course beyond my sole. #ultracrepidarian

I don’t know Only god knows where the story is For me, but I know where the story begins It’s up to us to choose Whatever we win or loose And I choose to win

So God, Please NO MORE DRAMA in my life!

CANCER, KARMA AND YES YOU TOO GOD ……I WIN!

My intent for writing this blog was not just to share my experience, but that hopefully someone who is ignoring a lump reads this and goes and gets it checked. I also found it frustrating that as a fitness professional over the age of 50, and someone who entered into menopause at and early age, 43 there were no blogs or info that I found giving me insight into treatment, recovery and especially the medicines and their effects on post-menopausal women who still lift weights..heavy. There are plenty of blogs and articles from ladies in their forties and below in the fitness profession who are pre-menopausal. Maybe eventually I’ll get to writing something for the fitness gals in their 50’s and 60’s who are still hitting the heavy weights, doing pushups galore etc. and discuss more of my personal issues. In the meantime feel free to message me if you have a question. As for the treatment plan I chose moving forward after my Proton therapy and the medications that were offered to me to avoid breast cancer I’ll leave it at this.

Everyone has their own journey and sometimes you have to go with your gut.

AFRICA- Check

KENYA May 2018

AFRICA – KENYA 2018 Checked it off the bucket list! (Thank you, Jill Schuler)

Please help CRUNCH out Pediatric Cancer. Like these amazing folks did this past September by spinning with me at Crunch Fitness for this great cause. Please donate to The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Cancer Center.

I also was so fortunate that during this past year, the weekend following my Lumpectomy to be part of an event that was so close to my heart nothing could have stopped me called the PHILLY SPIN-IN. A giant cycling event raising funds for pediatric heart disease. This event was truly amazing. A giant event for little hearts. I will post info on how you can donate and or be part of my team at the 2019 event. Please message me for information. Corporate donors wanted! [email protected]

PHILLY SPIN-IN

MOTIVATEHOPESTRENGTH.COM

Personal Training

610-608-6087

Contact Hope Nagy

Email [email protected]

Are You there God? It’s Me Hope,WTF? It's beginning to feel like a big prank. I am looking around for someone, or maybe something like a hidden camera because I love a good joke.

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hotfitnesstopics · 7 years ago

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Hi friends! How are you? Hope you’re enjoying the week so far. We jumped back in the weekly routine, and made signs on Monday to pick up the Pilot at the airport. He was gone for 3 1/2 weeks (don’t forget that extra 1/2): 4 weekends. We missed him so much, but I also looked forward to spending some solo time with the girls and trying to make an adventure out of it while he was away. We did things like have breakfast for dinner, enjoyed more frequent movie nights, I let them sleep in our bed, and we planned extra events to stay busy and entertained. While the Pilot was gone: -The girls and I slept horribly the first week, until I let them fall asleep in our bed. I also slept more soundly knowing my baby chicks were close by. -We actually had a lot of real dinners! I could easily see myself hopping on the takeout train since it was just the three of us, but there aren’t a ton of takeout places here that we love. So I cooked quite a bit, and while the meals were way more casual than usual, everyone was fed haha. – We took two road trips. I’d been wanting to take the girls back to Disney, and figured that we might as well make the most out of our passes. The 3 1/2 hour drive is pretty fast and the only really tricky part about this trip was navigating rides. Liv likes to go on more intense rides now (like the Barnstormer roller coaster), while miss P is not a fan. I told Liv this would be more of a trip focused on gentle rides, character experiences, and parades. Of course, she was totally cool with that. (Snack bag is key! I always have a giant bag of snacks in my suitcase and use it to refill each of the girls snack bags I carry in my backpack during the day. We eat full meals either at the hotel, Disney Springs, or the parks, but these are clutch when the girls get snacky and we’re on the bus or waiting in line.) We also had an amazing weekend getaway to Jacksonville to stay at our favorite spot. -I launched a project I’ve been working on for the past year! The Fit Guides are rocking and rolling, and it’s a blast connecting with all of the Fit Guide participants in the Facebook group + designing new workouts. We’re going to be including RD-created meal plans (at the same price) in the next couple of months and I’m so thrilled to add it to the plans. Sign up here now if you haven’t already! -Livi lost a tooth! She pulled it out herself.. thank goodness because I was a little creeped about having to do it. On a not-so-fun note: -I also had one heck of a health scare. I want to start this off by saying I’m ok for now, but continue to hope and pray that this is true in the future, too. A week before the Pilot left, I found a lump in my left breast. It felt like a hard bean and was enough to alarm me. I immediately made an appointment with my PCP to get it checked out, especially since we’ve had one incidence of breast cancer in our family. He took at look at everything, told me he thought it was probably an inflamed old milk duct from nursing P (especially since my left side did 90% of the work), and that I’d get an ultrasound to be sure. (I asked if I could do an ultrasound instead of mammogram since the thought of getting them smashed after my surgery gave me the creeps.) Of course I consulted Dr. Google, spiraled into mental doom and gloom, and the day of my ultrasound (the day before the Pilot left), I was literally shaking in the lobby. Thankfully my BFF Betsy was giving me a text message pep talk and called me as soon as it was over. The ultrasound tech was kind and lovely, and while she was performing the ultrasound, I kept checking the screen to see if anything stood out. I said, “You’re probably not allowed to tell me if you see anything, right?” and she responded, “I ain’t no doctor, but I don’t see anything.” She’s been a breast ultrasound tech for 30+ years (!) so that gave me some peace of mind. A couple of days later, I got a letter from the hospital indicating that they didn’t see any definitive markings for cancer, but that they recommended additional screening through mammogram. They said to continue to monitor myself and notify my doctor if anything changed. I thought this meant I was off the hook, and celebrated. (In this case, I had a glass of wine and bought myself an outfit online after the girls were asleep.) A couple of days later – by this point the Pilot had been gone for a week – I got a phone call from my doctor’s office while P was sleeping on the couch next to me. It was a nurse asking to go over the results of my ultrasound. “Hi, we got the results of the ultrasound here. Since you have a worrisome mass, we’ll need to get that checked out with an MRI.” “Wait… a worrisome mass? What do you mean? How big is it? Where is it?” “Well, the ultrasound doesn’t give a lot of details so that’s why we’re going to request an MRI. Originally they stated mammogram but we have in your chart that you’d prefer not to get one, so an MRI will be a good option. We’ll call you after the referral has been processed to set up your appointment.” I’m not sure what I said or how the phone call ended, but I literally crumbled after I hung up. Our living room was a juxtaposition of emotions: P slumbering peacefully on the couch, and myself, panicking with fear and sadness. I sank onto the floor and sobbed harder than I have in years. These two words kept swirling in my head: worrisome mass. I felt like I’d been punched in the stomach, and as I watched P sleep, I went through every worst-case scenario in my mind. I also felt more alone than I’ve felt in a long time. After I’d calmed myself down a little, I called the Pilot, my mom, and Betsy to let them know what was going on (they said they’d hop on a plane immediately if I needed them to) but in that moment, all I needed was someone, in real life, to tell me it would be ok. And that was something very difficult to go through by myself. I assured my mom, the Pilot, and Betsy that I’d be ok until I got the MRI and that if anything changed, I’d probably call for backup. I didn’t want to tell any of the wives or any of my local friends about it because it felt really personal.. and really scary. I kind of didn’t want to talk about it. I ended up calling the doctor’s office a couple of times trying to get answers (why did I get that letter from the hospital if everything wasn’t ok? What did the ultrasound show? How big did it look? What were treatment options if it ended up being something?), and while the nurses were kind and took their time speaking to me, I didn’t get a lot of substantial information. The promised me it was likely nothing, but it’s better to get things checked out to be sure. [In the end, I found out that my PCP was the one who called it a worrisome mass because I, the patient, was worried about it, but the ultrasound didn’t show anything abnormal, which is why I got the “good news” letter from the hospital. In a nutshell, the first nurse who called me didn’t exactly read the chart correctly.] So, I continued to go through the motions of life, trying to enjoy time with the girls and savoring every second with them (even when they bickered and refused to sleep), meeting up with friends here in town, and teaching classes… and then crying pretty much every night. It was a hard couple of weeks. By the third week, I felt pretty numb to the whole thing, but there was an underlying cloud of worry in my day. I had just gotten used to it at this point. I went in for my MRI appointment last week (which was just a bundle of fun), and got the results back yesterday. It looks like “excess glandular tissue,” so now I have to get a biopsy to make sure it’s benign. I’m pretty freaked out by the whole thing, but my doctor seems confident that it will be fine. He just wants everyone to have peace of mind and know for sure what it is, which I genuinely appreciate. This is going to be hard for me to write about articulately because I still feel like I’m in a shaky blur, but this whole thing was kind of like a reality check I didn’t know I needed. I stopped, listened, watched, absorbed, and was more present. I usually wake up so thankful for every single day, but I found myself mentally making gratitude checks for everything, all day. It was only thing that kept me from turning into a crying mess. I was able to mom, chore, work, socialize, and do all the things I needed to do, even though on the inside I was paralyzed with fear. When I would start to worry, the girls would say or do something funny, or surprise me with a hug or reach up to hold my hand. Gratitude, and our sweet babies, kept me from falling apart. At the end of each long day, I’d pour a mug of tea and call the Pilot, my mom, or Betsy, who were always there to talk me off the edge and help me maintain perspective. I’m still afraid and worried, but am trying to maintain a positive mindset over the next couple of weeks. Please know I’m thankful for all of YOU. Thank you so much for reading and being here now, and also while I was wrangling the girls on my own + dealing with this craziness. So, there ya go. I’m going to say here’s hoping the next few months are uneventful.

http://www.fitnessclub.cf/2018/05/since-he-was-gone.html

#IFTTT #Blogger

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burnsthroughherbookshelf · 7 years ago

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So, bearing in mind that for me “years” are academic rather than calendar-this has been literally the worst year ever. Here is the highlights (or rather the low lights) and some lessons learned.

Warning-some of what I will share is a bit graphic and will be embarrassing for both of us…but much like Ilona Andrews I feel that it is important to be a little more honest and open about things in hopes that someone else gets what they need.

At the beginning of last summer my left nipple suddenly inverted. My dad’s side of the family has quite a bit of breast cancer so I am very consistent with my self checks. Since I was 35 and knew my first mammogram was coming soon anyway I called my gynecologist and had her order the test a bit earlier than was originally planned. To be honest, it wasn’t as bad as it sounds, you stand there and get your boobs squished feeling a little awkward and embarrassed and then it is done. Unfortunately for me I have very dense breasts so they couldn’t really see anything so they had to refer me for a fancier mammogram and a diagnostic ultrasound. The fancy mammogram still could not see anything, but the ultrasound showed some simple cysts and a complicated cyst in my right breast, and 8 small simple cysts in my left breast. It also found a 1.5×1.5×0.6 cm mass on my left breast that they categorized as Bi-Rads 3 which they consider probably benign…so I was recommended to have a 6 month follow-up.

While in the waiting game for this, in August Hurricane Harvey hit which completely borked everything up. Lots of stress all around. Our home made it through OK but many of our friends and loved ones were not so fortunate.

Then I tweaked my right hip/glute and gave myself a raging case of sciatica and piriformis (i.e. old lady hip) and spent the next 6 months limping around.

Then my grandmother took a turn for the worse. She died the weekend before Thanksgiving. Now I am not one to go to funerals but the cousin I am closest to called and requested my presence for emotional support. This meant that during Thanksgiving week I had to get myself, one of my sisters, and my mom from SE Texas to Illinois-flights were crazy so we ended up driving straight through for 14 hours. Not good with the raging case of old lady hip.

The funeral was the big catholic extravaganza. Enough said. Got to see family I had not seen in a while so it wasn’t all bad but definitely not the most joyous of Thanksgivings… and I picked up the plague.

SO there I am hacking, wheezing, feverish and limping and that is how December passed.

In the midst of this [redacted1] decided to divorce [redacted2], and [redacted3] decided to sue [redacted4] over [redacted5] so [redacted4] counter-sued over [redacted6]. (Family members have been redacted because I am not ready for more arguing.) Much stress and terror has ensued and [redacted1] not only closed [redacted2]’s bank accounts throwing bills into unpaid status, but apparently has a girlfriend my age now which is creepy and gross.

Meanwhile I was still limping around and trying to find my lost referral for my follow-up diagnostic breast ultrasound.

Lesson #1: When you are supposed to have a 6 month follow-up that requires referral, call the month before it is due to make sure it exists.

I got that referral straightened and finally got a referral for physical therapy for my old lady hip. Went in for my follow-up and started physical therapy right about the same time. Follow up ultrasound showed the mass had grown to 1.8��1.7×0.8 cm which then required referral for a biopsy. In the midst of sending the referral for that, the ice storms hit sending the SE Texas region into an uproar and shutting the cities down for days. Seeing as it was only 17 degrees out for days on end, the warmest we could get the house to was like 58 degrees with all the heaters on. Houses in this area, especially old ones, jsut aren’t built for that kind of cold. The first referral got lost so a second one was sent at which point in time I got frustrated and called the person I was getting referred to and they indicated that they were not in network and that they had faxed that information back to my gynecologist who somehow did not get it.

Lesson #2: Always verify the doctor you are getting referred to is in your network and save yourself some time.

So then my gynecologist sent a referral to someone in my network and it kept getting kicked back from my insurance company. Many phone calls were made between myself, my gynecologist, the doctor I was being referred to, and my insurance company to get it straightened out.

Lesson #3: Always verify WHO can make certain kinds of referrals as per your insurance company’s policies. Turns out while Texas BCBS allows gynecologists to make referrals for ultrasounds and mammograms they do not allow them to refer for biopsies, so I had to call my primary care doctor’s office and it turns out he had not been reading the reports and had no clue what was going on. Finally got that office to send a proper referral through.

So I showed up to the surgeon’s office for what I thought was for my biopsy. Fortunately I was pro-active and brought my scans with me. Unfortunately, the first question he asked me was where my biopsy results were.

Lesson #4: Always make sure they doctor you are being referred to knows EXACTLY why you are being referred.

So once we got that confusion straightened out (turns out other imaging centers often do their own biopsies, mine did not) they got me referred for an ultrasound guided biopsy. Took a bit to get that scheduled and while it wasn’t my favorite thing ever, it wasn’t that bad except for the fact I had a violent reaction to the steritape.

Here is what happens with an ultrasound core needle biopsy. You have to bring someone with you because they don’t want you driving afterward. They may let your companion sit with you through the initial talks and even the initial ultrasound, but they are very unlikely to let that person stay for the actual biopsy. There are likely to be three medical providers in the room with you; the ultrasound tech, a nurse, and the person actually performing the biopsy. They will ultrasound all over and find the best place to keep the ultrasound wand, which is usually right over the mass the closest they can get. This means that the biopsy kind of has to burrow through more tissue than you might expect. This is awkward but not necessarily a bad thing, because you want them to see what they are doing as well as possible. Then they will do a series of lidocaine shots that go deeper and deeper to numb you up. Then they put a giant hollow needle into you (DO NOT LOOK AT IT) and using the ultrasound guide it into the mass. And here is why they have the extra people in the room. They might have one person hold onto your legs and one person hold onto your arms to keep you still. Because what happens next is they slide a weird device into that hollow needle so it goes into the mass and it makes a loud weird snapping noise and it takes a piece of the mass out. They will do this at least 3 times. If you are still then the other people will stop holding you, or at least mine did. Then they put in a little titanium “clip” or BB to mark where the mass is for future imaging. Then they apply a lot of pressure to stop the bleeding and then steritape you up. Then they send you in for another mammogram to check placement of the “clip”. This may cause you to start bleeding again and you can ask for them to redo the steritape because you aren’t allowed to get it wet for the next day or so or to remove it for several days. Also, ask for a boob ice pack. One could wish for black and skulls and cross-bones, but they are the perfect size and shape for this, nothing you have at home is going to work so well…even though it looks like meemaws wallpaper.

Lesson #5: Take a second day off after a biopsy, don’t go to work the next day even if they say you can. You can’t wear a bra, you have to keep using an ice pack on and off, and if your biopsy entry site is in the side boob area, every time you move your arm you will inadvertently smack it. This is not weakness, it is self-care and it will save you time and trouble in the long run.

Also I got released from physical therapy and my hip is feeling much better.

Lesson #6: Don’t assume that pain and discomfort is normal, and if you have something in a place you can’t see on your own, like the side of your boob, have someone else look at it. And if something hurts, and you don’t want to take pain pills, push for other options.

Once the steritape came off, along with all my skin, I started feeling much better. And the result of the biopsy was benign. So one good thing down. Unfortunately, turns out the mass that they were tracking had literally nothing to do with why my nipple inverted. Yikes.

Lesson #7: Don’t ever assume what your doctors are focusing on actually has anything to do with your primary complaint. Stand up and explicitly ask whether or not the thing they are focusing on actually has anything to do with your problem.

So with that being the case they referred me for a breast MRI. I got that scheduled during spring break. Unfortunately, the day before it was supposed to happen they called me to AGAIN ask when the first day of my last menstrual cycle was.

Lesson #8: It turns out that breast MRIs must be done in a very small window, days 7-10 of your menstrual cycle. I don’t know how I could have prevented this scheduling snafu because I had no way to know about that requirement, so just consider this your PSA about breast MRIs, schedule them 7-10 days following the start of your presumed next menstrual cycle (i.e. 7-10 days after the start of your next period).

I got that rescheduled and then the next day (the day I was supposed to be having the MRI) was our 8th marriage anniversary and almost 18 years together which is half our freaking lives so we were all planned up for a fancy night out when I found out once of my best friends since we were 5 years old died.

Lesson #9: There is never as much time as you think there is. Take every chance you have to cherish the ones you love.

We hadn’t talked much the last 8 months because I knew she had a lot going wrong in her life and the last thing I wanted to do was dump on her the misery I have been just dumping on all you readers. Which was stupid, so very stupid, because I know she would have been there for me and maybe I could have been there for her.

This wake I went to of my own accord to try to perform one last service for her.

Which brings me to today. Today was the breast MRI. Let me tell you about breast MRIs. As you may know, MRI machines are uncomfortably small tubes to start with. But for a breast MRI they have this oddly contoured table you get put on which drastically reduces the amount of room in that tube. You can go here to see what that looks like. SO you have an IV in the crook of one arm while you are trying to crawl up on it with a gown that is open in the front to lay down on it. There is an open space where your breasts dangle down and a bar that goes between the breasts. Then once you are lain down and torqued into that odd position they have clamps on either side of your breasts to squish them in together into the bar between them. It isn’t super uncomfortable, mostly it is about like getting a mammogram. Then they slide you into the tube.

As I said though, small tube is made even smaller by this table. They asked me a question and I instinctively looked up hitting my head on the top of it. This made me look to the sides and all I could see was the walls of the tube…which made me try to lift up but I couldn’t because my breasts were clamped to that table. So I ended up a sobbing hysterical screaming mess and they had to pull me out so I could calm down and try again.

Lesson #10: MRIs are hard, breast MRIs are a little bit harder still (I have had both kinds so I know). SO if you have any issues with claustrophobia be, up front and don’t feel like a weeny, lots of people have this problem. Even if you think you will be ok but you sometimes have trouble with enclosed spaces, just go ahead and tell them because they know all the tricks for making this as easy as possible. What they ended up doing was taking all the blankets off me and turning a fan on me very high so I could feel the breeze. Yes it was excruciatingly cold, but it helped a lot. I also declined the headphones because they made me feel even more enclosed. My biggest take-away is close your eyes, breathe, and whatever you do-DO NOT LIFT YOUR HEAD UP. Just imagine it bigger than it really is and do nothing that might alert you to the true size and shape of what you are in.

And I say all that not to discourage anyone from following up. I just want people to know a little bit more about what the process is like. Yes it is scary, but it is less scary I think if you really know what to expect. And nothing about that process, awkward and uncomfortable as it has been, is worse than the worry and the waiting and the not knowing. So if you have been putting of your mammogram, or haven’t gone in for your follow-ups, please do, none of it is insurmountable but the worry will eat you alive.

So right now it is just more waiting. Which sucks. And I’ll admit that it all sucks. But I am putting this out here because almost half of all women aren’t getting the mammograms that they ought to be getting. And while I thus far haven’t had the very worst outcome, I have hit most of the high and low points and I can safely say it is all surmountable. 1 in 8 of us will end up with breast cancer, and your chances of a long and healthy life go up dramatically with earlier intervention.

As for cost, lots of places offer free or low cost screening mammograms, especially in October. Call all the local places and ask what their cash prices are, particularly at offsite imagining only type centers. Yes, based on my experiences you might have to be a bit more proactive with your own paperwork, but the place I went to did every day cash prices of $85. Even if you still can’t afford that, remember that 1 in 8 number, there are almost guaranteed to be people in your life who would be thrilled to pony up the money for you to get tested. And if not, there are organizations where their whole missions are to get people mammograms.

The worst year ever and lessons learned from a balky boob. So, bearing in mind that for me "years" are academic rather than calendar-this has been literally the worst year ever.

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enzaime-blog · 7 years ago

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Alison Kovalchik: genetic postive breast cancer

New Story has been published on https://enzaime.com/alison-kovalchik-genetic-postive-breast-cancer/

Alison Kovalchik: genetic postive breast cancer

I have always led a very busy life, between raising my children, working both as an art teacher and in the field of graphic arts, teaching religious school, and cantering and singing with the volunteer choir on Friday nights at my synagogue. However, extensive medical issues forced me to stop working and go on disability in 2013.

That same year, my OB/GYN suggested I get tested for the BRCA gene mutation that increases the risk for developing breast cancer. I met the parameters for genetic testing because I am of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, and I have first- and second-degree maternal relatives who had breast cancer, including my mother and her brother. In May 2013, I found out that I tested positive for BRCA1. I truly did not expect it to be positive. But, in retrospect, the break I received was getting tested and getting an answer. Otherwise, I would never have known or been able to be proactive—nor would I have found the team of doctors I did at Fox Chase Cancer Center.

After receiving my test results, I turned to my OB/GYN for guidance. He immediately sent me to the Risk Assessment Program at Fox Chase. His office arranged for me to be seen by a genetic counselor in a few days. The counselor was very informative and reviewed as much of my family history as I could provide. The counselor also advised that my children have a 50 percent chance of carrying the mutation and that they and my siblings and their children should be tested.

Learning I carried the BRCA1 mutation left me reeling. I wanted to be seen by a group of doctors with vast experience with this mutation. I have to admit that I was wary, so I sought several opinions. Because of my multiple health issues, doctors have often described me as “complicated.” I’ve been diagnosed with lupus, fibromyalgia, multiple cardiac issues, severe reflux, previous lung ulceration, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), gastroparesis (slow motility of the stomach), colonic inertia (very slow motility of the colon), hypogammaglobulinemia (low gamma globulin levels), and severe osteoporosis. I was worried that I would continue to be considered a “problem patient.”

Even though Fox Chase is a cancer center, its staff considers the patient as a whole person, which is something I hadn’t encountered elsewhere, and, to me, it is a true miracle. Fox Chase Cancer Center’s doctors worked as a team to treat me.

Because of my compromised health, I most likely would have been unable to tolerate the aggressive chemotherapy used to treat patients with this mutation. Therefore, preventive surgery was recommended—specifically a prophylactic bilateral mastectomy and a salpingo-oophorectomy, removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes. However, until many of my medical issues were resolved, I would not be able to have the surgery. Due to lung scarring, I was considered a high-risk surgical candidate, which makes it more difficult to have anesthesia. The cardiac issues were another concern.

I first met with a pulmonologist at Fox Chase. If I had any reservations about seeing yet another pulmonologist, they were completely dispelled after my experience at Fox Chase. My pulmonologist performed further pulmonary function tests and confirmed the difficulties I had with breathing, even while just sitting. Upon evaluation, we recognized that my gastrointestinal (GI) condition needed to be addressed first. I was so worried that I’d have to find another hospital to be treated for my GI issues, but the care team assured me I could be cared for at Fox Chase—even if I didn’t have cancer.

I was then referred to Dr. David S. Weinberg, a gastroenterologist at Fox Chase. Dr. Weinberg was patient and thorough with my care, and he is very knowledgeable about motility issues. He was attentive to my GI issues, and he referred me to surgeon Dr. Paul G. Curcillo. Dr. Curcillo and Dr. Weinberg worked collaboratively to develop an individualized treatment plan for me.

In April 2015, Dr. Curcillo performed a temporary ileostomy while his partner (and wife), Dr. Stephanie A. King, a gynecologic oncologist, performed a salpingo-oophorectomy at the same time. These were the first items checked off the list. One year later, in April 2016, Dr. Curcillo reversed the ileostomy, fixed the peristomal hernia, and created a temporary colostomy closer to the beginning of the colon. I am grateful to Dr. Curcillo who thought through my treatment plan and made my ostomies temporary so they could be reversed if the procedures did not remedy my medical issues.

My team of doctors worked extremely well together, in a way I hadn’t seen before. I continue to be seen every six months for checkups, including a mammogram and a breast MRI. Dr. Curcillo emphasized that I could call him at any time if there was a problem, day or night, and I did need to do so. He was kind, gracious, and understanding and was able to address my concerns.

As of May 2016, I am faring well and will be scheduled for a prophylactic bilateral mastectomy. My Fox Chase team now includes Dr. Sameer A. Patel, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He has offered me the option of getting an implant. Each of the doctors wants to be certain that the implants don’t hinder my breathing because they will go behind the chest muscle. Because I have COPD, it can be an issue.

I trust my team at Fox Chase. My doctors gave me my life back—in all ways, not only with the BRCA mutation risk. I know I’m in the best hands for my care.

In 2016, I turned 60 years old, but I tend to believe I am still in my 30s. I have two incredible and supportive children. My daughter was tested for the BRCA gene mutation and tested negative; my son will be tested for the mutation in the future. My friends and family continue to tell me that I haven’t looked this healthy in years. I am feeling more like I did many years ago. I still express my creative talent with my artwork, which is a huge part of my spirit, and I now create wire and bead kippot (yarmulkes) for women, jewelry, and Hamsas for wall art. I also love to read when I’m too tired to create.

I’m learning to pace myself but need to make myself happy. It gives me the strength to heal and to continue to move forward.

#BRCA gene mutation #breast cancer #Risk Assessment Program #surgery #Cancer

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ongames · 8 years ago

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Why You Should Always Ask For A Second Opinion

Two years ago, when actress-singer Rita Wilson was 58, she underwent a double mastectomy and had this to say about it: Getting a second opinion saved her life.

Wilson was right to insist on a second opinion, according to a Mayo Clinic study released this month. Of 286 patients who sought a second opinion from the clinic over a two-year period, 88 percent received a diagnosis that was either modified or completely different from the first one they received. Sixty-six percent of patients received a refined diagnosis and 22 percent received a completely different one, the study found.

Only 12 percent received confirmation that their original diagnosis was complete and correct.

“Knowing that more than 1 out of every 5 referral patients may be completely [and] incorrectly diagnosed is troubling,” Dr. James Naessens, the study lead and a health care policy researcher at Mayo Clinic, said in a statement. “Not only because of the safety risks for these patients prior to correct diagnosis, but also because of the patients we assume are not being referred at all.”

The study involved patients with provider referrals for a second opinion, meaning their first diagnosis was serious or complicated enough to warrant more attention, Naessens said.

“Either the provider felt it was important to get additional information or they agreed to facilitate the referral for the patient,” Naessens told HuffPost.

“Our study should not be interpreted to say that 20 percent of all diagnoses are wrong,” he said. “However, it is also important that health care reform efforts do not prevent patients from getting second opinions when their providers feel they need further study or when the patient is not responding as they expected.”

The study, published in the Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice, examined the records of 286 patients referred by primary care providers to Mayo Clinic’s General Internal Medicine Division in Rochester, Minnesota, from Jan. 1, 2009 to Dec. 31, 2010.

Second opinions are on the decline.

In Wilson’s case, she has an underlying condition of lobular carcinoma in situ, abnormal cell growth that was being monitored through yearly mammograms and breast MRIs. In a breast biopsy, she was told that the pathology showed no cancer ― and was greatly relieved.

But a friend who had had breast cancer strongly urged Wilson to get a second opinion anyway. The second pathologist found invasive lobular carcinoma, and yet another pathologist confirmed his diagnosis.

“I share this to educate others that a second opinion is critical to your health,” Wilson said. “You have nothing to lose if both opinions match up for the good, and everything to gain if something that was missed is found, which does happen.”

You have nothing to lose if both opinions match up for the good, and everything to gain if something that was missed is found. Rita Wilson

Seeking a second opinion was once considered routine advice for any serious diagnosis. But for several reasons, that’s not always the case today.

One reason is that health insurers often restrict patients to care within their provider network, effectively limiting referrals in an effort to manage costs.

Patients’ reluctance to seek a second opinion is often based on finances, according to Erin Singleton, chief of mission delivery at the Patient Advocate Foundation, which helps people with financial assistance related to second opinions.

“It may be that the MRI that they want to do again won’t be approved,” Singleton said. Many insurers won’t pay for diagnostic or other tests to be redone, she noted to NPR.

Patients who see an out-of-network specialist for a second opinion may encounter significantly higher out-of-pocket costs, particularly if they subsequently want to receive treatment from that provider.

They may also use online second opinion sites like the Cleveland Clinic’s MyConsult service, which is one of the most recognized. Getting a second opinion from MyConsult costs $565, plus $180 if a pathology review is required. The service does not accept Medicare or any private insurance at all ― just credit cards or checks ― though patients can submit their bills for reimbursement if they have out-of-network coverage.

Another reason primary care providers don’t send more patients for second opinions is that they “may be more confident in their diagnostic expertise than warranted,” according to the Mayo Clinic study.

In other cases, patients may lack the knowledge or assertiveness to request a referral, said the study. Some patients are reluctant to challenge their doctor’s knowledge.

But the consequences can be major. Failing to seek second opinions “may prevent identification of diagnostic error, and could lead to treatment delays, complications leading to more costly treatments, or even patient harm or death,” says Naessens.

Conversely, getting second opinions could lead to quicker access to lifesaving treatment or stopping unnecessary treatments, the study noted.

Other studies affirm the value of a second look.

Past research also suggests that seeking multiple opinions often impacts the treatment course.

In a 2006 University of Michigan study of breast cancer patients, more than half of participants changed their treatment approach after getting a second opinion from a “tumor board” of oncologists, surgeons and radiation experts.

Another study that reviewed the biopsy slides of 6,171 patients referred to Johns Hopkins medical institutions for cancer treatment found that 86 patients had diagnoses that were significantly wrong and would have led to unnecessary or inappropriate treatment. While the error rate was low ― 1.4 percent ― it is not insignificant. Across the country, it could add up to an estimated 30,000 mistakes a year.

The Mayo Clinic researchers also identified the costs associated with second opinions and found that they were significant. “Total diagnostic costs for cases resulting in a different final diagnosis were significantly higher than those for confirmed or refined diagnoses,” Naessens notes, “but the alternative could be deadly.”

-- This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.

Why You Should Always Ask For A Second Opinion published first on http://ift.tt/2lnpciY

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yes-dal456 · 8 years ago

Text

Why You Should Always Ask For A Second Opinion

Two years ago, when actress-singer Rita Wilson was 58, she underwent a double mastectomy and had this to say about it: Getting a second opinion saved her life.

Only 12 percent received confirmation that their original diagnosis was complete and correct.

The study involved patients with provider referrals for a second opinion, meaning their first diagnosis was serious or complicated enough to warrant more attention, Naessens said.

“Either the provider felt it was important to get additional information or they agreed to facilitate the referral for the patient,” Naessens told HuffPost.

Second opinions are on the decline.

You have nothing to lose if both opinions match up for the good, and everything to gain if something that was missed is found. Rita Wilson

Seeking a second opinion was once considered routine advice for any serious diagnosis. But for several reasons, that’s not always the case today.

One reason is that health insurers often restrict patients to care within their provider network, effectively limiting referrals in an effort to manage costs.

“It may be that the MRI that they want to do again won’t be approved,” Singleton said. Many insurers won’t pay for diagnostic or other tests to be redone, she noted to NPR.

In other cases, patients may lack the knowledge or assertiveness to request a referral, said the study. Some patients are reluctant to challenge their doctor’s knowledge.

Conversely, getting second opinions could lead to quicker access to lifesaving treatment or stopping unnecessary treatments, the study noted.

Other studies affirm the value of a second look.

Past research also suggests that seeking multiple opinions often impacts the treatment course.

-- This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.

from http://ift.tt/2p52KQx from Blogger http://ift.tt/2qfN8XZ

#http://www.happiness2arab.tk/2017/04/why-you-should-always-ask-for-second.html

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imreviewblog · 8 years ago

Text

Why You Should Always Ask For A Second Opinion

Two years ago, when actress-singer Rita Wilson was 58, she underwent a double mastectomy and had this to say about it: Getting a second opinion saved her life.

Only 12 percent received confirmation that their original diagnosis was complete and correct.

The study involved patients with provider referrals for a second opinion, meaning their first diagnosis was serious or complicated enough to warrant more attention, Naessens said.

“Either the provider felt it was important to get additional information or they agreed to facilitate the referral for the patient,” Naessens told HuffPost.

Second opinions are on the decline.

You have nothing to lose if both opinions match up for the good, and everything to gain if something that was missed is found. Rita Wilson

Seeking a second opinion was once considered routine advice for any serious diagnosis. But for several reasons, that’s not always the case today.

One reason is that health insurers often restrict patients to care within their provider network, effectively limiting referrals in an effort to manage costs.

“It may be that the MRI that they want to do again won’t be approved,” Singleton said. Many insurers won’t pay for diagnostic or other tests to be redone, she noted to NPR.

In other cases, patients may lack the knowledge or assertiveness to request a referral, said the study. Some patients are reluctant to challenge their doctor’s knowledge.

Conversely, getting second opinions could lead to quicker access to lifesaving treatment or stopping unnecessary treatments, the study noted.

Other studies affirm the value of a second look.

Past research also suggests that seeking multiple opinions often impacts the treatment course.

-- This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.

from Healthy Living - The Huffington Post http://huff.to/2oNgehb

#Healthy Living - The Huffington Post

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