Recent Posts
Topic: Need support (kinda long)
It has been a very tough year. School started out bad and by the third six weeks, it resolved itself. My dad has had colon cancer (the best for what it was), cancer removed from his ear and had a pacemaker put in. Then in March my mom had a pain in her back. She was put in the hospital with a plueral effusion...which contained malignant cells. Eventually they did a pet scan, and found that the cancer was in the uterus...the probably source. She had a radical hysterectomy in May...and now we are beginning the process to get her chemo. She is terrified and so am I. She is extremely sensitive to medications...even the dye in lipstick....and the gyn ocnologist and the staff is wonderful and very supportive...but the cancer center we are going to ... very abrupt and to the point...not much time or patience with questions.
I had lap band surgery Dec. of 2007...I was doing great with losing about 85 pounds...During this last year I have gained about 20...I have found that I am resorting back to stressful eating...I don't want to mess up but I am if I don't get in control. I had an xray done and I know that I told them about the lap band...I don't know if it is the lap band showing up or if my pouch is enlarged. I pray to goodness that is not the case. I still have so much to lose...I don't need to be going the other direction.
If you care to keep in touch...or supply encouragement...please email me.
I had lap band surgery Dec. of 2007...I was doing great with losing about 85 pounds...During this last year I have gained about 20...I have found that I am resorting back to stressful eating...I don't want to mess up but I am if I don't get in control. I had an xray done and I know that I told them about the lap band...I don't know if it is the lap band showing up or if my pouch is enlarged. I pray to goodness that is not the case. I still have so much to lose...I don't need to be going the other direction.
If you care to keep in touch...or supply encouragement...please email me.
Banded 12/26/07
1st fill- 3cc on 2/20/08---2nd fill- 2cc on 5/28/08---3rd fill-1.5cc on 7/9/08---unfill -2.0 on 8/13/08--4th fill- 0.5 on 9/25/08--5th fill- on 12/29/08---6th fill- 2/09--7th fill on 6/18/09 Band removed due to erosion on 9-11-09. Planning revision.
Dr. George Merriman.......Shreveport, LA
http://freedomfromobesity.net/
Topic: Lump found Post Breast Augmentation a month later
I had breast Augmentation in april all went well but when the swelling sub sided I found a lump. I do have fibrocystic disease, I will have biopsy tommorrow . My sister was DX with breast cancer 3 weeks ago stage 4 hers2 positive and came on so fast. I had digitial mamo and ultra sound 6 mos ago. My aunt and grandma both died of fast moving breast cancer which the mamo did not pick up, ,My sister had a mamo 13 mos ago. My faith in mamo is shaken and now i got a lump, She had pain, I have lump located in tail section of the breast, Hers did not follow the rule.. I am worried, I know I have 80% it will be nothing, My doc told me the fact I had BA it could be just related to that but biopsy is must, I hope anyone can shed a new spin on this I am sure I am not alone.
Lisa
I had breast Augmentation in april all went well but when the swelling sub sided I found a lump. I do have fibrocystic disease, I will have biopsy tommorrow . My sister was DX with breast cancer 3 weeks ago stage 4 hers2 positive and came on so fast. I had digitial mamo and ultra sound 6 mos ago. My aunt and grandma both died of fast moving breast cancer which the mamo did not pick up, ,My sister had a mamo 13 mos ago. My faith in mamo is shaken and now i got a lump, She had pain, I have lump located in tail section of the breast, Hers did not follow the rule.. I am worried, I know I have 80% it will be nothing, My doc told me the fact I had BA it could be just related to that but biopsy is must, I hope anyone can shed a new spin on this I am sure I am not alone.
Lisa
Topic: RE: How to proceed - non hodgkins lymphoma??
I am 27 and was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma at 24. I had 6 months of chemo and a month of radiation. Thankfully I've been in remission for 2 years. My surgeon required a letter from my oncologist before proceding.
My oncologist's concern was mainly about the ability to get enough nutrition during treatment, should I develop cancer again in the future. I have having the DS surgery on July 7! I'm not sure which sugery she is considering, but I've had both RNY and DS surgeons (I originally investigated both procedures) assure me that the intestinal portion can be reversed to bring back "normal" absorption if needed down the road. The stomach portion of the RNY can be reversed, as well. There is always the option for TPN if she still isn't being nourished enough during treatment.
Not sure about your daughter's experience, but I actually GAINED weight during my chemo - about 40 lbs - and that is what finally pushed me to have WLS.
Good luck!
My oncologist's concern was mainly about the ability to get enough nutrition during treatment, should I develop cancer again in the future. I have having the DS surgery on July 7! I'm not sure which sugery she is considering, but I've had both RNY and DS surgeons (I originally investigated both procedures) assure me that the intestinal portion can be reversed to bring back "normal" absorption if needed down the road. The stomach portion of the RNY can be reversed, as well. There is always the option for TPN if she still isn't being nourished enough during treatment.
Not sure about your daughter's experience, but I actually GAINED weight during my chemo - about 40 lbs - and that is what finally pushed me to have WLS.
Good luck!
Topic: RE: How to proceed - non hodgkins lymphoma??
I posted this article a while back. It may help sway your daughter's onc:
http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/cancer_survivor/3816729/Bariatric-Surgery-Reduces-Cancer-Risk-in-MO-Patients/
Oncologists are conservative by nature. If your daughter can articulate why surgery is a best option for her, he's more likely to be supportive. They sometimes want patients to wait a certain amount of time/years before they get on board with any life change, such as having a baby.
Let us know how it turns out!
http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/cancer_survivor/3816729/Bariatric-Surgery-Reduces-Cancer-Risk-in-MO-Patients/
Oncologists are conservative by nature. If your daughter can articulate why surgery is a best option for her, he's more likely to be supportive. They sometimes want patients to wait a certain amount of time/years before they get on board with any life change, such as having a baby.
Let us know how it turns out!
Nicole Lab rata data link- One-half of a DS couple! - I'M BELOW GOAL!
http://bit.ly/DSExp After a very rough start it's official--I
my DS! Romans 8:28
Looking for DS information? Start at http://bit.ly/newDS and DSFacts.com
http://bit.ly/DSExp After a very rough start it's official--I
my DS! Romans 8:28 Looking for DS information? Start at http://bit.ly/newDS and DSFacts.com
Topic: How to proceed - non hodgkins lymphoma??
My daughter - age 20 - has the same weight issues that I have. We attended a seminar and are interested in proceeding with surgery.
My question. She was diagnosed and treated (chemo) for non hodgkins lymphoma last year. Test results to date have been exceptional. During her last consultation, I mentioned weight loss surgery. It was obvious from the start that her doctor seemed against it .......... for everyone. I asked several specific questions, and never got real answers. So I'm frustrated.
I hope this doesn't seem like I'm pushing my daughter to risk something. Nothing could be further from the truth. We are just looking at the facts. People in her age group who had lymphoma have a higher than normal chance of getting another form of cancer later in life. Obesity is know to increase the risk of some forms of cancer. A healthier more active lifestyle would seem to be a perfect option.
Yes, the mental part of this also plays a part, but I've never mentioned it when we talk. It breaks my heart knowing/seeing all the things she's missing due to weight issues. The looks, the discimination, and how she's drifted away from all the things she used to love. I know it first hand ........... and I know it hurts.
We were told it would help get surgery approved if we got a letter from our doctor. He's given his blessing for me ......... and would for her .......... but wanted to differ to her oncologist. I'm thinking this could create a problem.
Has anyone dealt with this issue or know where I might find additional resources?
Thanks
My question. She was diagnosed and treated (chemo) for non hodgkins lymphoma last year. Test results to date have been exceptional. During her last consultation, I mentioned weight loss surgery. It was obvious from the start that her doctor seemed against it .......... for everyone. I asked several specific questions, and never got real answers. So I'm frustrated.
I hope this doesn't seem like I'm pushing my daughter to risk something. Nothing could be further from the truth. We are just looking at the facts. People in her age group who had lymphoma have a higher than normal chance of getting another form of cancer later in life. Obesity is know to increase the risk of some forms of cancer. A healthier more active lifestyle would seem to be a perfect option.
Yes, the mental part of this also plays a part, but I've never mentioned it when we talk. It breaks my heart knowing/seeing all the things she's missing due to weight issues. The looks, the discimination, and how she's drifted away from all the things she used to love. I know it first hand ........... and I know it hurts.
We were told it would help get surgery approved if we got a letter from our doctor. He's given his blessing for me ......... and would for her .......... but wanted to differ to her oncologist. I'm thinking this could create a problem.
Has anyone dealt with this issue or know where I might find additional resources?
Thanks
Topic: OT - I need your help
I had a brainstorm this morning. Tell me what you think.
I was thinking about fundraising for the 2010 AVON Breast Cancer Walk and saw an advertisement about a fundraising cookbook. I know that in the past I have purchased cookbooks from churches. I thought it would be a good idea to ask people to send us their recipe and tribute to someone that has been affected by breast cancer.
So, here is where I need your help. If you have been touched by breast cancer or know of someone who has and would like to contribute your tribute to that person, please send it to me at [email protected]. I think this will be a great way to make people aware of this disease and tell our stories and pay tribute to anyone battling or who has fought this disease.
So please take a few minutes and jot down your tribute and your favorite recipe and if you have a photo of your person and e-mail it to me at [email protected] or you can mail it to me at PO Box 573, Cambridge, MD 21613.
Thanks in advance. I’m so excited and can’t wait to read your stories!
Lisa Z.
When we believe, all things are possible!
Topic: RE: Question for those with breast reconstruction. Long, but I am so confused!
Hi,
Well, I just found this wonderful site and this particular board is so timely to me. I was diagnosed with breast cancer 2 years and 4 months ago (ya know we count those months)...I did not have reconstruction. I had a total masectomy with 10 of 10 lymph nodes involved. I decided to wait to do recontruction and last year decided to really look into it.
Because my skin was so radiated I was not a canidate for tram (no skin to stretch) and alot of scares from an infection I had in the incesion....so I was told that the DIEP would be the best thing for me. Now, for the good\ bad news and why I am now pre approved for WLS---I have to get my BMI down to have the surgery performed--I have tried just about everything (like all of us) but now with the aromsin, hysterectory and stress....have not been able to loose no matter how hard....so my gp reommended the surgery.
Anyway, once I have reached the bmi required I will get the DIEP surgery.....and I WILL get the other breast removed. It is one less place that those little cancer cells can go....so for me....not only will I get to identical breast (with sensation back in most cases) I get a tummy tuck too....soooo---that is my two cents.....
Now, I have a question....I have been preapproved for surgery.....now they want me to write my history.....not sure where to start....do they want pictures???? What seem to cause the weight gain???? Does being preapproved by the insurance company mean I can get the surgery?????
Teresa in Texas
So, for me.....
Well, I just found this wonderful site and this particular board is so timely to me. I was diagnosed with breast cancer 2 years and 4 months ago (ya know we count those months)...I did not have reconstruction. I had a total masectomy with 10 of 10 lymph nodes involved. I decided to wait to do recontruction and last year decided to really look into it.
Because my skin was so radiated I was not a canidate for tram (no skin to stretch) and alot of scares from an infection I had in the incesion....so I was told that the DIEP would be the best thing for me. Now, for the good\ bad news and why I am now pre approved for WLS---I have to get my BMI down to have the surgery performed--I have tried just about everything (like all of us) but now with the aromsin, hysterectory and stress....have not been able to loose no matter how hard....so my gp reommended the surgery.
Anyway, once I have reached the bmi required I will get the DIEP surgery.....and I WILL get the other breast removed. It is one less place that those little cancer cells can go....so for me....not only will I get to identical breast (with sensation back in most cases) I get a tummy tuck too....soooo---that is my two cents.....
Now, I have a question....I have been preapproved for surgery.....now they want me to write my history.....not sure where to start....do they want pictures???? What seem to cause the weight gain???? Does being preapproved by the insurance company mean I can get the surgery?????
Teresa in Texas
So, for me.....
Topic: RE: wls, breast cancer and tamoxifen
Hello to everyone that posted here,
I am also a breast cancer survivor. I was diagnoised on June 5, 2007 with stage 3 invasive ductal carsonoma,estrogen + on the left, and stage 2 invasive ductal carsonoma, HER2NU+ on the right. This proved to be a quite drawn out process due to the fact that I also have congental heart failure. My onocologist was recommending massectomies after chemo to shrink back the cancer then possible radiation.Several doctors later it was determined with my heart and the weight combination I had the bi-lateral mastectomy was too long and too much. So I went for a second opinion at Stanford U and had them do the bi-lateral lumpectomies. That's also kind of a long story but I'll get to the quick. I just finished up the radiation in the beginning of August of last year and my dr put me on Tamoxifen to be taken for 5 years. When I went in for WLS consult I asked if that would put any complications and my WLDoc said it would not be an issue, but he would consult with my onocolgist on that and other issues as well. I talked to my onocologist as well and he said he didn't see any issue with it and was very encouraging for the surgery because of the weight being a factor of reocurring cancer. I had the RNY last week (4/17) and have continued to take the tamoxifen right on thru. I lost 11 lbs already and am thrilled with the results. Everything on schedule and I'm able to go off the blood pressure meds already YIPPEE!! In fact tamoxifen and the vitamins are the only thing I"m taking right now.
I see that several of you have had the WLS for awhile now. Have you had any bumps in the road with that involve any of your treatments/surgeries or drugs you take for the cancer?
I am also a breast cancer survivor. I was diagnoised on June 5, 2007 with stage 3 invasive ductal carsonoma,estrogen + on the left, and stage 2 invasive ductal carsonoma, HER2NU+ on the right. This proved to be a quite drawn out process due to the fact that I also have congental heart failure. My onocologist was recommending massectomies after chemo to shrink back the cancer then possible radiation.Several doctors later it was determined with my heart and the weight combination I had the bi-lateral mastectomy was too long and too much. So I went for a second opinion at Stanford U and had them do the bi-lateral lumpectomies. That's also kind of a long story but I'll get to the quick. I just finished up the radiation in the beginning of August of last year and my dr put me on Tamoxifen to be taken for 5 years. When I went in for WLS consult I asked if that would put any complications and my WLDoc said it would not be an issue, but he would consult with my onocolgist on that and other issues as well. I talked to my onocologist as well and he said he didn't see any issue with it and was very encouraging for the surgery because of the weight being a factor of reocurring cancer. I had the RNY last week (4/17) and have continued to take the tamoxifen right on thru. I lost 11 lbs already and am thrilled with the results. Everything on schedule and I'm able to go off the blood pressure meds already YIPPEE!! In fact tamoxifen and the vitamins are the only thing I"m taking right now.
I see that several of you have had the WLS for awhile now. Have you had any bumps in the road with that involve any of your treatments/surgeries or drugs you take for the cancer?
Topic: Anyone with Thyroid Cancer post RNY? (cross post)
Hey all!
I had Thyroid cancer 5 years ago. My labs are showing a re-occurance. I'm curious about the RAI, specifically the pills. Best I remember, They are BIG! Has anyone had to take this for a scan or treatment post RNY? I'd love to ask you some questions.
Thanks!
I had Thyroid cancer 5 years ago. My labs are showing a re-occurance. I'm curious about the RAI, specifically the pills. Best I remember, They are BIG! Has anyone had to take this for a scan or treatment post RNY? I'd love to ask you some questions.
Thanks!
Topic: RE: Cancer in remission 4 years... still hard to get approved
I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2006 when I was going through the pre-op testing for a lapband. I had to cancel my band surgery and start chemo. My cancer was caught early thanks to my WLS tests and now, less than three years later, I have the green-light from both my oncologist and PCP for WLS. Rather than the band, I have now decided to go with a VSG - since I do not want to deal with a foreign body. I chose VSG since it has good success and I do not have to deal with malabsorption issues. This is my personal choice only and I wish you the best success with whatever bariatric surgery you choose. Perhaps you could get a second opinion from a different oncologist. Hodgkin's Lymphoma has a high cure rate and after 5 years of having clean scans it generally is no longer even monitored. Best of luck!
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