SparkPoints: (101)
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Posts: 15
5/18/13 4:58 P

Hi, I am currently taking chemotherapy. I have colon, ovarian and liver cancer stage 4.
I am finding the treatments tough. I have had trouble coping with side effects such as nausea real bad, sore mouth, diarrhea, constipation, rash, hand-foot, hair thinning and weight gain. I had a real hard time wrapping my head around the "I have cancer!?"It has been 6 months since my diagnosis and at times I still have trouble believing this is my life right now. Cancer has changed my life big time. I had to stop working and my husband has had to stop working also to take care of me. The costs are been astronomical. I have one child who doesn't talk much about my cancer and another who is a little too young to fully understand all that is going on. Until you have cancer or are near to someone who has cancer, you have no idea what it is like to deal with cancer. I don't have a big support team which makes it hard on my immediate family. My husband has had to pretty much take over the household and everything that comes and goes with it. I am still in my early stages to know how things are proceeding medically. I'm scared! I look forward to learning and sharing with everyone here.

SparkPoints: (2,228)
Fitness Minutes: (554)
Posts: 83
5/4/13 2:14 P

Hello all! My name is Lori and I'm from Sarasota, FL. Lived here for the last 12 years, originally from Long Island, NY. I'm 48 years old, a recent ovarian cancer survivor and a recent college graduate (both happened in the last year).

I had my cancer surgery in October of 2012. I had a 35 pound tumor removed that was wrapped around my right ovary. I had a complete hysterectomy and my appendix removed at that time. I consider myself beyond blessed with the results of the surgery at removing the cancer and chemo wasn't in my treatment plan. My CA125 levels have returned to normal and I'm ready to do battle with my weight issues now.

I have gained 60 pounds in less than 5 months. I *know* it's going to take a lot longer to get it off. I need to be healthy. I was given a second chance at life and I want to be "all that I can be" without all the weight!

I have always struggled with my weight. I did Weight Watchers (once upon a time) and lost 75 pounds. When I stopped doing it, the weight came back. I never made it a life style change. Tracking my daily eating and activities seemed to work, now I want to see if I can manage this without WW and incorporating this with Paleo eating and exercising.

So here I am. I look forward to interacting here and have set up my e-mail for notifications. Thanks for listening!

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4/19/13 9:01 P

Hi, I'm Jessica. I am in remission from stage 2 Hodgkin's Lymphoma...I had a stem cell transplant in October 2012. I am looking to lose about 30lbs...and be healthier in general! I've been eating good/clean for about 2 months..and have incorporated exercise in over the past 3 weeks.

SparkPoints: (1,079)
Fitness Minutes: (415)
Posts: 39
4/10/13 2:19 P

Hello, my name is Deborah and I am a cancer survivor. I dont know why this team was so hard for me to come to and introduce myself. I have been on Spark for a couple days and I am still trying to navigate. I am very happy to meet you all! I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in Sept of 2008. I was diagnosed Stage 3 advanced... the cancer was spread thorughout my system and was found in both my upper and lower regions of my body as well as invading my spleen. My prognosis was 5-6 years of chemo. After my first full round I gained over 40lbs from the steroids and was unable to lose the weight. BUT I was also in full remission and there were no Lymphnodes with cancer on my PET scan! I was amazed and excited and worried. I wanted to get to a healthy weight again so I came on spark and worked through to being my goal weight of 145lbs. Since my first Spark success many things have happened. And now I am back after having my 3rd child.. Isabella Maria... she is a miracle to me and I now need to get back on track with getting back to me. I am currently 174lbs and would like to get back to my goal weight of 145 again. I am still in remission (thank God everyday for it) and want to be as healthy and active as possible so IF I would ever have to go through chemo again... I will be strong enough to go the rounds. And if I never have to go through it again... I am able to enjoy this life God blessed me with.

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4/8/13 11:04 A

Yes, keep praying and take one day at a time. You will, just like your Grandma, have good days and bad days. Hang in there. How was your weekend?

SparkPoints: (514)
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Posts: 2
4/8/13 10:58 A

Hi everyone. I am new to Spark and to the group. I am a 24-year survivor and have been back in remission for 15 months. I look forward to getting to know you all. I live in Kansas, have two grown daughters and one grandson due in July. Oh, and two furbabies, a golden Newfoundland and an orange tabby.

SparkPoints: (887)
Fitness Minutes: (15)
Posts: 5
4/5/13 1:16 P

So far I am doing pretty good. Trying not to let it stress me out. taking it day by day. i know I should go see her more often but it is hard with work. I do a lot of deep breathing and praying.

SparkPoints: (364)
Fitness Minutes: (110)
Posts: 13
4/5/13 12:15 P

Hospice would be so helpful for everyone. I hope she changes her mind. You could still go talk to them. This is all they deal with 24/7. They are wonderful. As far as chemo, they have come a long way on that. I didn't get sick. I actually gained weight. I had chemo in 2004 and 2005. They give you medicine so you won't get sick. I still lost my hair though. However, it depends on the type of chemo they give you if you lose your hair or not. How are you feeling?

SparkPoints: (887)
Fitness Minutes: (15)
Posts: 5
4/4/13 7:17 P

Mom says they have been talking hospice but my grandmom doesn't want it. The main reason she doesn't want chemo is because she saw what her sister went through back in 1984.

SparkPoints: (364)
Fitness Minutes: (110)
Posts: 13
4/4/13 9:58 A

My sister gave things away too. That's therapy for them as well. I can understand not going through chemo, especially at her age. Chemo is hard on your body. I had 6 months of it. Some people get very ill from it and sometimes pass away from complications of it. I wish there were words to tell you to ease the pain. I know this is so hard. Just be there for her and your family. Be kind to yourself. Treat yourself to something special. It was the same for my sister, that everytime I saw her, there was a change. Best thing is for your Grandma to be comfortable. Will hospice be involved? They are so good with the patient and the family. Great support. Keep talking. Please don't keep feelings inside.

SparkPoints: (887)
Fitness Minutes: (15)
Posts: 5
4/3/13 5:47 P

She is actually taking it somewhat ok. She is starting to give things to people. I am trying to be strong for her and the rest of the family because I know that I need to. When she was first diagnosed she kept saying that she didn't know she was sick until they told her. I hope she stays somewhat upbeat because I don't want her to give up. Her doctor suggested chemo but she doesn't want that. She says she wants "quality of life" not "quantity". I guess I understand where she is coming from but it is hard. Almost seems like everytime i see her there is a change.

SparkPoints: (364)
Fitness Minutes: (110)
Posts: 13
4/3/13 9:02 A

You are so right, It's very difficult. My sister was 51. She had breast cancer that spread to her brain. She was a voice/piano teacher and was a good Christian woman. It breaks your heart watching someone slowly wither away. Stay strong for your Grandma. However, it's okay to cry and get upset. Remember, life on this earth is temporary. When I had cancer, that's how I dealt with it. I figured God wants me home or he still has plans for me here on earth. How is your Grandma taking it?

SparkPoints: (887)
Fitness Minutes: (15)
Posts: 5
4/2/13 5:45 P

Thank you. It is hard. A few years ago, I watched my mom's 3rd husband die from pancreatic cancer. He was diagnosed Feb 2007, given 1 to 2 years but by Memorial Day 2007 he was in hospice and gone by June 2007. It is hard when this happens. I thank you for your support. I think this is even harder since my grandmother is the one who basically raised me and we are very close

SparkPoints: (364)
Fitness Minutes: (110)
Posts: 13
4/2/13 9:22 A

Hello,
I am so sorry to hear of your Grandmother. It is difficult to have someone you love have cancer as I also watch someone close to me go through it as well. My sister had it and she passed away 3 years ago. Talk to your family and friends and Pray, Pray and Pray. YOu will find so much strenth, courage and peace with prayer. Find other ways to get rid of the stress, like take a walk or watch a movie. ( something funny ) You have already taken the first step by asking for help on this website. You can write me or call me and I will support you.

SparkPoints: (887)
Fitness Minutes: (15)
Posts: 5
3/30/13 7:54 P

I am joining this group because my 80-year-old grandmother was diagnosed with Lung Cancer on her 80th birthday (in December 2012). I am very close to her and not sure how to handle and help her with this. She is already on oxygen and they give her 6months to a year to live. Thing is- she didn't even know she was sick until they told her. The only way they found out is because her PCP was concerned because she had too much calcium. Can anyone advise on how to handle this without reverting to the emotional eating?

SparkPoints: (364)
Fitness Minutes: (110)
Posts: 13
3/25/13 5:56 P

Hello,
I just came back to this sight after a few years. I have been cancer free for 8 years now. Losing weight should be a piece of cake from having cancer, but why is it so hard? Please help.

SparkPoints: (21,000)
Fitness Minutes: (4,512)
Posts: 1,300
3/14/13 7:20 A

The is out just for you!

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3/13/13 12:11 P

Wonderful Wednesday everyone!

I am honored to be a part of the Surviving Cancer Spark Team, thank you!

For years I have had health issues. It would not have been so bad if only the doctors would have listened to me. For 14 years I suffered with Hypo AND Hyperthyroidism which finally I went to a specialist and it actually turned out that I have Hashimoto's which explains why my days would vary without warning. I never knew what type of day I was going to have when I woke up each morning. Finally, I filed a patient's affair (military) complaint and won. I went to a civilian EENT doctor for my ears and asked questions about my throat. He ordered an ultrasound next thing I know two days later I'm having surgery. Pathology report showed my thyroid had not been working for years. I had a complete thyroidectomy, no pink tissue. Then two years later Mayo Clinic found a few enlarged fibroids, cysts on my ovaries. I had near complete hysterectomy., kept my ovaries so that I can go through menopause (oh, joy) Those fibroids caused me to be severely anemic, I needed blood transfusions. But let's go back a little before my hysterectomy the hospital found out during my visit to the ER that I had a mass on the upper right pole of my kidney but because I was losing so much blood (daily for nine months straight) they had to wait until that surgery in order to do a partial nephrectomy. Pathology report came back RCC/CCC-clear cell carcinoma. Had that surgery Jan 28th, 2013. I am hoping to lose at least 60 lbs realistically but would love to lose 70lbs instead. I am usually the motivator, still am...but I am not used to motivating myself therefore, I need support from others to give me that push.

Edited by: 185LYNN at: 3/13/2013 (12:17)

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3/12/13 1:11 P

Hi All,

I am brand new to SparkPeople. I just joined the day before yesterday.

I am a 52 year old mother of four. I have a myriad of health problems right now. I have thyroid cancer, fibromyalgia brought on by the cancer, bad knees, high blood pressure, and a ton of weight to lose.

I really want to lose the weight to be healthly, so that I can enjoy the rest of my life. I do not want to be old and disabled!

I am looking forward to learning from all the wonderful communites and articles here on SparkPeople.

I am also reading the book right now!

Thanks for listening,
Kathy

SparkPoints: (21,000)
Fitness Minutes: (4,512)
Posts: 1,300
3/2/13 8:14 A

JFROGGIE I know what it is to wait...think positive and keep the attitude that have expressed here and know that we will be here for you!!!!!

PUNKYSMOMMY I have no experience with them, I am sorry...I did have a friend who wanted to go but evidently not many insurances will cover their programs. You might want to check there first.

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3/1/13 9:57 A

I'm in here on behalf of a family member. I was wondering if anyone here has had experience with cancer treatment centers of america? and was it positive? She is thinking about going that route and any information would be appreciated. (She has not started any treatment yet. She has a little over a week before the first treatment is scheduled.)
Thanks in advance!

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2/11/13 4:44 P

Hi, I'm Joanna the artfroggie. It has been a challenging 8 months since I was diagnosed with first colon cancer/surgery and then liver cancer stage 4. I have been in chemo for 6 months. I just took my first pet scan and willl be getting the results on Wed. of this week. I am expecting good things. I am an optimist so I am expecting good results all around. I have a great support and prayer network and that helps. Thought it would be good to hook up with a group that can give me info and encouragement that are knowledgeable about what I am going through. Hoping for good things.

SparkPoints: (8,381)
Fitness Minutes: (5,367)
Posts: 302
2/5/13 9:36 P

Hi! I am new to this forum and to SP. I was diagnosed a year ago with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma and was recently declared in remission. I will continue maintenance treatments for 2 years. I gained weight while on treatments despite watching what I ate and exercise. I was told this is very unusual, so I checked in with the nutritionist at the cancer center. I know that tracking what I eat is the only way I can get a handle on it, so here I am.

SparkPoints: (21,000)
Fitness Minutes: (4,512)
Posts: 1,300
2/2/13 6:59 A

Hi...I am Jean. I found out that I have small cell lung cancer in May of last year. I nearly died after the first chemo treatment but they pulled me back and started the remaining three treatments at 75% to which I have responded well to. I am currently considered in remission but I do have small cell and know what that means. I do fight not losing weight as during chemo I lost down to 103. I try to hold around 121 now. (I have dieted all of my life and this is weird to fight weight loss.) When I joined Sparks originally I weighed 183 lbs. The nutrition problems that I face are my sodium which for the first time was normal in January. I am considered to be in remission and for the first time since last May have no doctor appointments in February. I look forward to sharing and finding strength in this forum.

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1/31/13 6:14 P

Returning after an absence

Posts: 2
1/9/13 8:30 P

New member! Just signed up and mentally ready to get started but I broke my toe Saturday so it has slowed me down.

I'm just over a year thyroid cancer free. Waiting on a biopsy Tuesday to see what the mass it hanging out in my thyroid bed since nothing should be there (2 surgeries in 2011 to remove it). Finally, after a year and 4 months starting back my levothyroxine we've found the right dosage. WHEW! Took long enough.

My husband and I want to start a family so we are both working on losing weight, we both have at least 100 pounds to lose to get to our ideal weight, but any little bit will help.

Posts: 51
12/28/12 6:09 P

Hi! I'm pretty new to having cancer. I found out on Sept 27, 2012 that I have MALT lymphoma (mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue) after surgery for a small bowel obstruction. It is a low-grade B-cell cancer that is not curable but is treatable. I've been sick with all kinds of stomach issues since 2009. The doctors have been grabbing at straws since then, even had my gallbladder out. I'm not happy with the diagnosis, but at least I know what I'm dealing with now. I have had 4 treatments with Rituxan. That's immunotherapy, not chemo. I have a CT scan on Jan 8th. If the lymphoma cells have been knocked back, I'll do maintenance treatments every 2 months for a few years. And I just keep hoping it doesn't spread anywhere else!

SparkPoints: (22,975)
Fitness Minutes: (16,185)
Posts: 22
12/23/12 12:03 A

Hi,
I'm new to this team and new to cancer. In August I had an ultrasound, during which a "lesion" was found on my left kidney. The radiologist recommended I follow up with a CT scan. I put it off, convincing myself it was probably nothing but after a month decided to have the test. Well, the CT showed not one, but two "lesions". One on each kidney. Two weeks ago I had the most suspicious looking lesion removed by having a partial nephrectomy and a couple of days ago learned it was Renal Cell Carcinoma. This came as a complete shock. I'll probably be having the lesion removed from the left kidney in a few months. My cancer is stage 1 and for that I'm very thankful! I haven't been exercising much lately, little too much going on! I'm so very ready to get back on track :-)

Posts: 5,391
12/18/12 2:36 A

I decided to join this team today because I felt I finally had something significant to contribute.
I want to start by saying that I have had cancer 3 times, Hodgkin's (lymphatic cancer), Melanoma and Breast cancer. I consider myself cured, thanks to catching all 3 early but of course I know that everyone always has a few cancer (faulty) cells in their body.
What I wanted to share today is that after many years of researching cancer prevention through nutrition I believe I have found something that may be very helpful for many people. I have shared it in my blog over here:
www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal.
asp?id=HOUNDLOVER1

Birgit

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SparkPoints: (20,161)
Fitness Minutes: (7,652)
Posts: 3,861
12/6/12 3:06 P

Hi Everyone, I'm not new to SP nor new to this team. However I'm not sure if I have introduced myself. I am in remission for 2 years (or nearly), I had brain cancer, non-hodgkins lymphoma. I was having some problems with allergies, over time I started getting numbness on the left side of my face which soon spread to the entire left side of face & head. After many visits to my primary care dr I finally went to my allergist who was concerned with the numbness. He sent me for a cat scan and from there it was a whirlwind trip. Within a few weeks I was scheduled for my biopsy, given an oncologist and was going in for chemo (3 days a week for several months of treatments) then on to radiation (5 days a week for a month). I won't go into any detail of the treatments or they affect they had on me, but in the end I lost my job due to memory issues (result of cancer & treatments). I was fortunate in being able to be approved for disability the 1st time I applied. It's been a bit of a adjustment for me but I've made it through to today. Yesterday was my birthday and I was very excited about that. Friends/family couldn't understand the excitement of being another year older. I wasn't thinking about the age factor just very excited about being alive after being told that I had less than a 50% chance of beating the cancer to even be here today.

I haven't been on this site much because it's just too hard for me. I had a hard time accepting the cancer in the first place and now that I'm in remission still having a hard time. My dr. prescribed for me a medication for the depression, which seems to work most days. I still have approx. 6 months before I can apply for medical so my dr visits haven't been very regular. Everyday I think what if its back and I don't know it. At the same time I think I beat it and I'm ok.

Any way I felt like I needed to at least touch down with this team even if I don't visit regularly. I will make more of an effort but please don't judge me harshly if I don't visit often.

Karen

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12/4/12 12:33 P

Nice to meet you and glad to have you with us

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Posts: 9
12/4/12 9:30 A

Hello!

My name is Amy and I was diagnosed with stage III hodgkins lymphoma in February of this year. I finished chemo in August and all is well at this point. I managed to put on 20 pounds during the last 1/2 of chemo and the month following - I'm working on losing that weight and returning back to my goal weight. I've started running and have returned back to my happy, healthy eating rhythm - goodness eating during chemo was a crazy ride!

I'm looking forward to chatting and getting to know others working through this too.

Edited by: AMYKRU76 at: 12/4/2012 (09:33)

SparkPoints: (2,125)
Fitness Minutes: (70)
Posts: 37
12/2/12 2:49 P

Hi Im tasha. I am just starting my journey down the path of being a cancer survivor. I was diagnosed last month with stage iv ovarian cancer. I have tumors on my ovary in my cervix on my liver and in each lower lung. I have yet to meet my oncologist, mostly i think cause Im waiting for my medical to get approved. I have clue what Im in for, but look forward to the day my period stops. Been 3 months already non stop. If you are interested i posted a blog about my cancer. Nice to meet y'all and thank you for having me

current weight: -33.0  under

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SparkPoints: (76,424)
Fitness Minutes: (41,270)
Posts: 9,018
11/19/12 4:41 P

I am new...my name is Amy. I was diagnosed in 2009 with uterine cancer, hysterectomy fixed it. No chemo needed. Praise the Lord. Now in 2012 I have been diagnosed with thyroid cancer, thyroidectomy was the treatment. October (when I turned 50) it has now been lung cancer, wedge resection and soon chemotherapy to start. Needless to say, it has been a hard road to travel. This last one being the scariest. I have a very supportive husband and children. My parents and siblings live several states away. I am keeping a positive attitude and I have faith in God to get me through this latest journey. Support from my SPARK family has been awesome and amazing, without them I know I could not be doing as well as I am.

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10/23/12 3:56 P

Just wanted to stop in and introduce myself. I have stage 3 breast cancer. I had surgery last January. I had a double mestactomy, I am now going through radiation treatments. ihad to have 33 radiations and just have 6 more to go. I gotta say I am getting pretty sore. I went through a year of chemo. I'm doing well and no more cancer so far. Yea me!

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10/19/12 9:55 A

I agree! I try to stay positive and laugh my way through life. It sure helped during treatment!

Posts: 100
10/18/12 12:29 P

That's awesome, SHAOLINCHICK!

I've found emotional health is important, too. 90% of illness and disease is caused by stress.

So I've been working on my relationship with myself and mental self-talk, too!

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10/18/12 12:16 P

Hi all! I just came back to sparkpeople this week. In January I was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer. Since then I've combated chemo, a bilateral mastectomy, finishing reconstruction and on the road to health again. I am happy to say that I am cancer free!

This last year put my life into perspective and made me realize that I am a fighter and REFUSE to be back in the claws of cancer again. I'm taking my health and nutrition to a new level and am ready to get back to life.

Posts: 100
10/17/12 4:26 P

I'm trying to remember all the teams I used to belong to the last time I was here.

Hi, everybody! I'm home! :-D

Got a few pounds to lose after my most recent surgery.

Can't wait to interact with you all.

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SparkPoints: (77,661)
Fitness Minutes: (26,393)
Posts: 1,057
10/1/12 3:02 P

Greetings,
I go by Moon, to everyone but family anyways. I am a cervical cancer survivor (very recently). All my children are grown with children of their own. I am a stay at home wife. I have been on Spark people for awhile. I lost 90 pounds but have gained back most of that. I am determined to loose it and the rest this time. I don't want the cancer to come back, nor for me to have any other health problems (if possible) in the future.

Moon

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9/28/12 5:51 P

Hi,
I just joined Spark People today. I am a Breast Cancer survivor and currently have Stage IV Lung Cancer. I was diagnosed with Stage IIIB Inflammatory Breast Cancer in 1993, at the age of 25. I had a mastectomy, high-dose chemo, a stem-cell replacement and radiation. All was well until June 2010, when I was diagnosed with Stage IV Lung Cancer. I went through several months of chemo. My oncologist stopped the chemo because my body just couldn't take any more. Then, miraculously, I started doing better. The last three chest x-rays I have had were "normal." I feel okay now, except for getting a little winded once in a while. Now I want to concentrate on my over-all health, starting with my weight!

SparkPoints: (44)
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Posts: 1
9/26/12 9:29 A

Hello All,

My name is Amber and I'm 28 years old. I have stage three Multiple Myeloma cancer. This is my main motivation for losing weight, before the cancer I weighed 193 and then lost some of it on weight watchers before I got diagnosed. When I was diagnosed I weighed 183 having gained some of that weight back. Since then I've reached 159 pounds which is pretty amazing for me but I still want to get into better shape before my bone marrow transplant so that's the real goal not the weight.

I also want to send my thoughts and prayers to the rest of you dealing with cancer, it's no fun but with hard work and love and support we can all beat it!

SparkPoints: (132,516)
Fitness Minutes: (136,422)
Posts: 23,719
9/22/12 1:14 A

Hello, I am Amy, 43 a single mother of 3 young adult children. I live in the Denver, Colorado metro area. I have been a member of Spark for 3 years. I am a 15 year Hodgkins Lymphoma survivor.

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9/19/12 8:30 P

Hi Im marechelle & I just joined today

SparkPoints: (418)
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Posts: 3
9/18/12 1:33 P

HI my name is Stacie. I am 41 years old and in the Fall of 2011 I was diagnosed with a rare form of thyroid cancer and had a TT in Oct 2011. I under went RAI ablation in Dec of 2011 and they have just recently got my numbers back where they need to be with Synthroid. I have had a terrible time with weight gain, I was already over weight and I have gained atleast 30 extra pounds since my surgery. I am looking forward to losing the weight and feeling better about my self.

SparkPoints: (377)
Fitness Minutes: (60)
Posts: 29
9/12/12 6:05 P

Hi, my name is April. My boyfriend was recently diagnosed with lung cancer March 2012...I feel like if he has cancer, I have cancer...he is not fighting this alone. I can't say that I know what he's going through cause only he knows but I can say that there are a lot of things I go through with him and it's a tough journey. We are both only 29 and have been handed a really tough life but we take what we have and live life to it's fullest. We are currently waiting for a call from MD Anderson in Houston. Anyone have any information about MD?

SparkPoints: (175)
Fitness Minutes: (120)
Posts: 6
9/10/12 8:54 P

Hello...my name is Patricia. I just joined Sparkpeople today....and just learning how it works. I am a 4 yr breast cancer survivor. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2008 after I found a large lump. I had not followed through with my mammograms so I strongly urge anyone that is due for one....get them! I had a mastectomy on my left side with reconstruction. 4 months after I was diagnosed my mom was diagnosed. She also had a mastectomy on her left side. Her chemo treatments weakened her system and she ended up having to get a partial amputation to her leg. Now, today my little sister has had a biopsy and is waiting the results. Right now it looks to be atypical hyperplasia with the chance that it still might be cancer. Either way...it is a dangerous situation. I just pray that God will be with our family as we struggle through this disease. I tested for the BRCA genes and am not a carrier but the doctor told me that we could still have it in our genes....just not that one. I have 2 grown daughters and I pray that they will stay healthy and not have to go through this. I have lost 30 pounds and kept it off but have somehow lost the momentum to get my last 40+ pounds off. I thought if I tried a support system that I could access frequently that it might give me the encouragement that I need to finally get the rest of my weight off. I know being overweight can be a risk factor of it recurring as well as the aggressiveness of the cancer that I had. So....I keep pushing forward.....any encouragement would be most welcome! Thanks!

Posts: 345
9/10/12 5:37 P

Hi. In June I was disagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma after the doctors finally put a name to symptoms I've had for 2 years now. Apparently it is most common in people 15-39 years old. At this point I have 10 chemo treatments left.

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5/13/12 12:31 P

Hi ~ I am new to this team but not to surviving cancer. I am 58, married for 39 yrs., have 2 sons, a DIL and two beautiful grandchildren, the youngest is 2 weeks old today.
I was diagnosed with advanced cervical cancer in 1983. I was given 5 weeks to 5 months to live at the time...guess they were wrong! It was a long road, 3 surgeries and radiation treatments but I am still here 29 yrs later!
I believe we all have to be responsible for ourselves, we have the ability to heal when we learn to listen to our inner voice. I chose to live; this involved making choices, I got rid of specialists I wasn't comfortable with ~ I picked a great team of doctors (family doctor, surgeon, oncologist) I had a supportive family, radiation therapy, I taught myself healing through meditation (Dr. Weil) & guided imagery. I have some issues I believe are related to the radiation treatments but haven't had success finding information on this subject.
I would like to offer support to anyone who is going through this battle, it is beatable and the success rate is even higher today than 30 years ago.
Funny but it may have been easier to beat the cancer battle than it is to fight the weight war! I am not giving up, I've been stuck losing and gaining the same few pounds for months now but one day soon I may beat that evil scale in my bathroom once again! Pat

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5/7/12 3:49 P

Welcome Barbara, Kayla, Kattty, Janis and Lori!

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4/17/12 3:43 P

Dear Lori,
By sharing what you are going through, people get the opportunity to get to know you a little and to keep you wrapped in prayers and uplifting moral support.
Please know that you are in my prayers.
Sincerely,Janis

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4/17/12 3:09 P

Hi. My name is Lori. I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2004. I had a hysterectomy and chemo. This past monday 4/9/12 I started chemo for the third time. I will keep doing what I have to and surviving the disease. I am an on and off SP member. I seem to lose motivation when health issues come up but I had made the decision to get back into me so here I am. The chemo can take care of the cancer and I will take care of the rest of me.

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Posts: 1,892
4/16/12 7:19 P

Hi, my name is Janis and today I was told about your team and since I'm a breast cancer survivor, I thought I need to get involved here, and I'm so glad I did.
I found out I had breast cancer on November 20th of 2008. I've met so many wonderful people since finding out about my cancer. I've been blessed in abundance.
I just wrote my story of my cancer in the last couple of hours in that forum. I was glad to refresh my memories when that happened.
I'm a Catholic, and I'm involved with ministries in the Church I belong to, being an Extraordinary Minister anda Lector. I feel it is such an honor and a priveledge to partake in these Ministries.
I'm 66 years so I have alot of time to do things I want. One of those things is being involved with a group of recovering women. I feel very rewarded by the things I do. Spark People is another involvement that has blest my life. I love Spark People. I have so much to learn and look forward to it. I first came on Spark in August of 2010.

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4/3/12 8:49 P

Hi everyone, I was diagnosed with Breast cancer last summer, had a double mastectomy, chemo and radiation that finished three weeks ago. It is now time to deal with all the extra weight I am carrying around. Plus, I would like to boost my immune system to prevent it from ever coming back. Anxiety, lymphedema and sheer weariness is so draining. I try to keep a positive attitude, but if one more person says how they "admire" my strength, I am going to scream...Whining about how I feel doesn't change anything, but man is it hard not to pig out on comfort foods. Any thoughts on how to avoid this bad habit?

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1/23/12 6:23 P

HI all, I am 26 years old, was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma last February 1st at the age of 25. I completed 6 months of chemotherapy (April - September) and am now tackling the weight I have been carrying around for years. I'm finding one of the most challenging things of post-cancer life is the anxiety I have about it coming back. It makes me want to just sleep all the time and eat whatever I want. It comes and goes. In fact, I have been doing really, really well the last few months but the past few days I have been an anxious mess.

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1/16/12 10:17 A

I have been on SP awhile but was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year. I had robotical radical prostatectomy on December 13. Post-op biopsy showed the cancer had grown through the wall of my prostate. Waiting on more testing to determine what to do next. I have read several articles that say cancer patients have a better chance of surving when exercising so I run on an ellptical machine at work for 6.2 miles Monday thru Thursday and 1.4 miles on Friday for a total of 26.2 miles a week (marathon). I feel like I am running for my life.

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SparkPoints: (121,343)
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11/8/11 3:48 P

Welcome to all the new members.

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11/8/11 8:38 A

Hello, I am new to this team, but have been on SP for a little over a year now. I was just recently diagnosed with lung cancer, that has spread to my liver and the lymph glands under my arms. I had my biopsy yesterday and I am still feeling it. Not bad, but it hurts a little.
I hope to find out the results by the end of the week. I don't know what happens after that. I work but my status is "on call" after a year and a half, so I don't have any insurance. I have been going to the county clinic. I am worried about getting good quality treatment, and in a timely manner because of this. It took over a month just to get the biopsy. I had the catscan on Oct. 6th and the biopsy on Nov. 7th. Is that average for anyone else?

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10/26/11 7:42 A

Hello all, I'm new to the site but glad I found you all. I was diagnosed with bladder cancer in October 2010, had a turbt to remove tumors and luckily they were low grade ta1. Unfortunately they are apt to return & they did in Sept. 2011. I have been feeling down as this body of mine seems to have a mind of its own. I go back for another cystoscopy of the bladder in January 2012 so really hoping if I can keep down my stress levels I'll get an all clear. I am turning 60 in Nov. live in Northern Ont. Canada, am happily married to a wonderful guy, mother of 2 with 3 wonderful grandchildren. My main reason for joining Sparks is to exercise to reduce my stress levels as my weight is fine (one of the lucky ones in that respect). Hoping I can encourage others as they battle cancer & survive. Cheers everyone !!!

Posts: 4,106
10/16/11 1:02 A

Hi and welcome to all new members. You have chosen a team with a great leader and the very bestest people for support... I'm a teeny bit prejudiced, because I have, on many occasions been on the receiving end of their love, support & prayers! I'm MarilynC from No. rural FL... I'm married with 5 adult children - 5 adult children-in-love - 14 grands - 2 greatgrands & 2 furbabies and a Father who is always just a whispered prayer away! I was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2003 and treated with surgery & radiation (no chemo avail at that time). My surgeon told me then, "when" it came back there would be chemo (like a very good nurse I tried to conform him to use "if", but like a very good doctor he held firm to "when"). In 2010, I was diagnosed with mRCC (medically correct term for metastaticRenal Cell Cancer) to my chest wall, treated with surgical removal of 2 encapsulated lesions and 3 non-encapsulated lesions left for chemo treatments. mRCC is slow-growing, non-curable (neither is diabetes or heart disease), but treatable with oral chemo (just as beasty as IV)... 2capsules for 28 days, then off 14 days (FOREVER)... as of my last scan 1 baby lesion is off the CT & the other 2 are 2/3 smaller with no new sites & I'm at my lowest dose. Yes, I'm a survivor, but only by the grace & mercy of a very loving Father for His glory... I am healed for just one day at a time!
MarilynC.

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10/16/11 12:15 A

Jen... you asked what I see as a very important question... "At what point do I get to go from "breast cancer patient" to "breast cancer survivor"?" You are already a cancer survivor! The process began when you were diagnosed and made the decision begin the journey to put circumstances in proper perspective... you control your cancer (by treatment, acceptance & making your life an experience daily) rather then letting your cancer control you! If you notice, I spell cancer in small letters... often on this board, I offer to new members a mantra given to me by my radiology oncologist some years ago... cancer is a WORD, not a SENTENCE. Survivorship is living out all the terms of the Serenity Prayer every minute of every day, & giving God the Glory!
MarilynC (mostly a lurker)

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10/14/11 4:03 P

Hi, I'm Kathy. In 2006 I was diagnosed with Hepatits C. In 2008 I had a large basel cell carcinoma removed. Four months later I was diagnoded with stage II colon cancer. Three weeks later I had resection surgery and had 16 inches of my colon removed. Since then I've been tested for ovarian cancer; no cancer, but other problems found. My follow-up appointment is next Friday. Anyway, I've been cancer-free for 18 months now. I'm the eternal optimist and truly believe I'm done with cancer. Hopefully my optimism isn't misplaced.

Posts: 262
10/10/11 8:59 A

Hi,
My name is Jen and I was diagnosed with DCIS--stage 0 breast cancer--on Sep. 7. The confirmed DCIS is 6mm in diameter. The other breast, which is not confirmed DCIS, has a suspicious area 7 x 2 x 8 CENTIMETERS. I'm going in for a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction on Nov. 8. My prognosis is good. The cancer has been caught early and is non-invasive. They're doing a sentinel lymph node biopsy to confirm.

My prayer is to glorify God in my reaction to this experience and to encourage everyone I know to get their health screenings. My cancer was caught through a mammogram. They had been monitoring "suspicious" activity for a while and this time it changed.

At what point do I get to go from "breast cancer patient" to "breast cancer survivor"?

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8/19/11 9:56 A

Hello my name is Carol Im 51yrs old I was diagnosed with endometrial cancer in May and on June 22 of this year I had surgery to have huge tumor removed plus a full hysterectomy and I go for chemo treatments every 3 weeks till the end of the year with radiation to follow. Ive had 2 treatments and Im doing ok so far and feeling good just adjusting to it all.


Jesus first

Edited by: GRIFF2734 at: 8/19/2011 (09:58)

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8/8/11 11:13 A

Hello Everyone,

My name is Barbara and I am a BCC survivor. I was pronounced cured last October when I had my port removed. I am taking tamoxafin but am wondering if it is causing the weight gain and muscle/joint aches and pains. Does anyone have any experience with this? I am meeting with my oncologist this week to ask about it.

Have a great day!

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Posts: 1,756
7/14/11 8:17 A

Hi Everyone,
My name is Linda and I have been a Sparker almost 5 months now, but just saw this team on someone's Spark Page. I am officially 18 months cancer free and am here to learn to lead a healthier and happier lifestyle. I have a rarish type of uterine cancer called MMMT (Malignant Mixed Muillerian Tumor//spelling?) Anyway, about 3% of uterine cancers are this type and the survival stats are pretty scary. Having said that, I fully intend to be a survivor!!! I am finally at the point where I do not think about having "had" (because I believe it is gone) cancer on a daily basis. That is important to me as I continue to get on with my life.

I look forward to getting to know you all better. Keep the faith!!!
Linda

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6/22/11 4:44 P

Hello everyone,

My name is Cristin and I am a 30 year old mom who was just diagnosed with cervical cancer. I fought with pre-cancerous cells in 2004 and in 2009 but apparently neither one of those treatments worked.

I am working with a great doctor but unfortunately good medical care is not available in my local area so that means a 3-1/2 hour drive one way for treatment. I guess I will get really comfortable with that road or rack up a lot of frequent flier miles. I live in a small town in Alaska called Kenai where some of the best fishing in Alaska is. We stay really small in the winter but in the summer we have all kinds of people down here.

I live with my dh and our four children - 15, 13, 11 and 8. The diagnosis hit me really hard and it was tough on the kids too. I am looking into all of my treatment options but at this point because we have had failures with other treatments I am seriously considering a hysterectomy. Once that is done we will find out if chemo or radiation will be required.
I look forward to getting to know all of you during the course of our personal journeys.

I also have several other medical conditions that are making weight an issue for me. I have lost over 200 pounds in the last 8 years but I still have more to go. I have PCOS, Celiac Disease, High Blood Pressure, Chronic Pain, Cervical Degenerative disk disorder and diabetes. Due to all the health issues, I have competing requirements for food so for me Spark has been a lifesaver.
Talk to you all soon,

Cristin
Cristin

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4/28/11 3:24 P

Hello everyone. I am in the middle of my SECOND battle with cancer. My first exposure was just over 6 years ago when during a regular annual physical the nurse (While Taking my Blood Pressure) found a discoloration on the back of my arm that looked like a birthmark. She asked how long it had been there and I told her I thought it was a birthmark and it had been there naturally from birth. In reality, I had no idea it was there and was just guessing.

My physician came in and was also concerned and convinced me to let her surgically take a biopsy right there in the office. I reluctantly agreed. Thank God I did because 48 hours later they had me at a Dermatologist/Oncologist's office for further review. She (I have an affinity to female doctors) did in office surgery on the original site as the lab reports showed that all of the melanoma had not been removed. She - upon a full body inspection - found a second melanoma under my chin that I had not even noticed. She removed that as well. The fact that there were two separate sites immediately placed me in stage 4.

Luckily, lab analysis of both sites indicated that the melanomas were "in situ" (spelling?) and did not require an chemotherapy despite the stage four diagnosis. The following years were a living hell for me as I hid from the sun - sold my Harley Davidson - and even only went to get the mail after sunset. Thankfully, all follow up inspections resulted in a clean bill of health and after 5 years they declared me cured.

Now, for my second fight. I began passing blood in my urine and and for 14 months the specialists and all tests found no logical reason. I even had one doctor tell me that it appeared I was one of those people that just passed small amounts of blood in the urine and that I should not worry about it.

Soon, however, two years ago I began to intermittently pass PURE blood. They finally admitted me to the hospital for tests and after two arduous days they diagnosed me with stage 3 Transitional Cell Carcinoma. My left kidney was surgically removed as it was totally consumed by the cancer and my left ureter was removed as a cautionary measure as was a cuff of my bladder. I was on the operating table for over 7 hours and the incision was from my upper chest to the pubic area. It looks like I have been bitten in half by a shark.

I was told I could not take chemo therapy because - on top of everything else - they found I had stage three kidney disease in the remaining kidney. They placed me on a three month cycle where my surgeon/oncologist 'scoped' me every 12 weeks. By scoping I am talking about them inserting a camera on a cable to inspect the bladder and the urinary tract (what was left LOL). The tube, by the way was inserted in a manner that no male desires if you catch my drift.

Six months after the initial surgery the quarterly scoping found another cancerous tumor in the bladder. It was removed 8 days later.

I have now been 'clean' for right on 18 months and I am confident but still sitting on pins and needles.

I used Spark People some time ago as a weight management tool and loved it. I found it an easy way to watch my diet and assist my health.

NOW I am back yet again but with a different need this time. I am now a Diabetic. I now have severe cholesterol problems. I now have kidney disease. Each of these issues carries with it certain dietary needs. Trying to balance the needs of the three differing dietary needs seemed impossible. My physician gave me certain targets for calories (yes I also must lose right around 35 pounds), fat, protein, and carbohydrates.

I fully understand that my situation is complex and any hope of finding someone with the same set of problems is slim to none. I am, however, looking for anyone addressing dietary needs from several often conflicting direction and anyone that has or has had Transitional Cell Carcinoma.

Thanks to all, and have a pleasant day

Dan

Edited by: DAN2851 at: 4/28/2011 (18:27)

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Posts: 10
4/25/11 7:37 P

Hi Gina, Its scary, isn't it? I was just diagnosed with breast cancer last Thur. At what point will I feel like it isn't a bad dream? I didn't know any one who has ever had BC before so I am looking for friends to help share with me. Take care of yourself, xo, me

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Posts: 10
4/25/11 9:04 A

Hi, Up until last thursday my life was perfect, I married my high school love at 18 and love him even more now. we have three wonderful children, two with spoused and one with a long time girl friend, and I love all 6 of them, and the cherry on my sundae is three beautiful grandchildren, a 5 year old boy and twin one year old girls. Perfect perfect perfect,And than. I found out I have breast cancer. It is crazy scary! I was reading some of the other blogs and it is comforting to hear about other people,fighting this fight, you sound like such a great group! Thanks for listening and I hope to find some new friends. xo jill