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Joan,<br
off for two weeks from your chemo.<br

Holly its ok to cry but Cyd would want you to
enjoy your trip. Have a great time!! Yes I have a lot
of work to do but the Phoenix foundation has offered
to help find rooms for us all. I just have to give
her a count of how many rooms I think we will need.
They are excited that we chose their city, it is going
to be their 10th anniversary. Hope everyone is
enjoying what is left of fall. <br
on blood draw day. Karen sleep for me will ya, I
dont ever seem to sleep enough. Hope this new chemo is
working for you. Joan can you see me yet?? lol Hope the
eye surgery went well. Kathy how are You??<br
better get ready for football game yuk. I really hate
football its so cold out, but its Kyles last game and
grandma must go.<br

And one more thing, I've been thinking alot about
Cydney due this trip. Because we will be driving thru
Switzerland on the way back to Frankfurt. Maybe even spend a
night. I feel her presence and I'm sure it will be even
stronger there.<br

Oh man, guys I'm just sitting here balling sp? my head off thinking about Cyd.
<br

I hope and pray that treatment goes well with
everyone this week.<br
eye?<br
must be sleeping alot from treatment or shopping like
mad!<br
just how you feel when tests come up.<br
you done your research on estrogen/progesteron sp?
pills? Let us all know which one is picked and
why?<br
first.<br

Okay, Phoenix! Phoenix in October. Should be
gorgeous. I'm keeping my eye on tomorrow, next week, and
next month... next year seems a long way
off.<br
how is your foot? And Kathy? How're YOU doing? Joan,
how's the eye coming along... Holly, are you busting
your buttons anticipating your trip? I would be.
Betty, thanks for all your encouragements, and actually
for all the encouragements that so many of you share.
How's treatment going for folks? I go in for a
comprehensive blood draw today, then a check-up with the onc.
on November 14th. Those visits always make me
nervous, and that's one of the reasons I don't think a
year ahead... a week or a month works for
me.<br
lives are busy and good. But please folks, don't go
through rough times alone. There's so much help here,
free for the asking.<br

I have been extremely busy getting ready for this
trip. We will be in Germany, and Austria for a few days
each, but the remainder of the time which is eight days
we will be in Italy. Just last Friday I found a
really cute house to rent for a week in a Medieval town
called Montieri. <br
but it's close to Florence, Siena, and Chiantishire.
I got this house for a week dirt cheap ($350),$50
dollars a night which is less than B&B's. The house has a
fireplace, and hot tub. The house is thirty minutes from the
sea. Ken & I will take lots of pictures and talking
about pictures I finally have more to post of DM. So
yes, I'm bursting with excited! I wish we could have
left yesterday type excitement! Saturday morning can't
come soon enough!<br
Bless,<br

got to see your picture postcards...don't know why my computer never let me see
them when you sent them via e-mail. They are great. doris f

Well Ladies here is how the voting went.<br
Rouge--9<br
things.<br

Hope you enjoy, Big Hugs Betty<br
href=http://www.kissedbyanangel.com/pillowangels/
target=new

Dianna! I loved your poem. (((BIG HUG))) ~Lala~ ^^Å^^ ^^å^^
<br
why it is called the "Present"

Jeana! I know I have way tomuch on my plate! LOL!
My mom is much better and I think they are going to
try thre cortizone shots on her again as well. The
last time she was still working and they didn't help
much. She has gained 6 lbs! I did a *Happy* dance with
her. So glad to hear they have helped you. My
co-worker that I have been helping part-time had to have
open heart surgery. She is doing fine. But I will be
back to full time work for 3 months. Thank You God for
my 4 sisters! At least I have help with mom. Sending
Prayers and Angels to all of you here. Know you are
always in my prayers,(((BIG HUG))) ~Lala~ ^^Å^^ ^^å^^
<br
"Gift" That is why it is called the "Present"

I enjoyed all the pictures. Thanks. When I went into the album it said there was

Hi everyone........hope this weekend is going
good for everyone. I just finished adding to "DM,
Kathy's Version" in the Photo section. I hope you will
all go and enjoy. I am so proud of myself, I finally
figured out how to do
it!..........LOL<br

I Believe<br
dreams that will come true.<br
moments<br
believe in stardust<br
believe there's magic<br
know.<br
heart.<br
impart.<br
vain.<br
pain. <br
starts to shine.<br
spread<br
that hidden <br
magic moths and gypsies<br
sprite.<br
heart,<br
start. <br
there for you to share<br
the heart,<br
care.<br
one,<br
done.<br
me.<br
to see.<br
greatest gift of all<br
heart<br
~<br

Thanks You Betty, I hope you have a good weekend too.<br

Sorry Holly thought you were going to England but then seen it was Europe but
then again they could be one and the same with this chemo brain lol.<br
Karen

We're going to Spain and Portugal next year. We
had planned this vacation the year my bc came back
and we were going in spring, but won't until
September. I have lots of info on it. I suggest you get a
Michelin guide because they are really good to
use.<br

I want to go to Europe! I'm taking the first step
- getting my passport (hubby has his) - thinking of
Spain & Portugal. There will be that faint concern, but
don't let it rain on your trip. My youngest son's still
in Australia, I'll feel better when he's home, but
there's plenty dangerous roadways here I should worry
more about? Hugs to you all, thanks Kathy & Holly for
the welcome back - what's (where's) the "big club"??
Teunisse

Hi Teunisse<br
you will get to Europe soon. Have fun.<br
on navelbine for a year and a half. The only side
effect I have is numbness to fingers and toes. My dose
has been cut and I am on every other week now. It has
been effective for me. Has kept me stable. Wishing you
well. Love and Hugs, Joan

Holly, GO to Europe and don't you worry. You'll
have angels surrounding you and tons of prayers from
all of us. I can't think of a better way to shake off
some of this war creepiness than to get away with your
husband for some well-deserved fun. Just expect some long
lines at airports. Please let us know when your
departure gets closer so we can keep you in our prayers.
<br
Marianne's ornament on ebay is gorgeous, I hope she sells a
bundle of them! They are really precious.

Ken and I go to Europe in a week and a half for a
little over two weeks. I'm a little nervouse because of
the "new" scare that they told us about . We're
flying into Dulles and take off there to go to Germany.
I wish I wasn't going at times and I don't want to
stress myself out. I'm was doing really well until this
new notice that Osama bin Ladan is going to do
something over the next week.<br
everyone having chemo and radiation come thru without any
hospital visits. I also pray that no one gets news of new
sites. <br
worried because we hadn't heard from you lately. I've
never have had navelbine, but I think Karen
has.<br
Bless,<br

in Des Moines loved the beautiful ornaments that
Marianne gave us...well, they are now being sold on e-Bay
and you might want to check them out. She posted a
picture of them in the big bc club in proud grandma
Marianne's album 2 Here is the information for e-Bay. doris
f.<br
on the site<br

say hello to everyone. Hope all if going ok for
all of you, and again wanted to say how nice it was
to see all of you on the tape that Holly made for
me. I know you all must have really had a fantastic
time, and it was so wonderful for Holly to sent me the
video that I could be a part of it also. Hope all
continues to improve for any of you that are still under
treatment, and for those that are not having problems right
now I think that is wonderful. Have a great day, Hugs
Betty

So good to hear from you, have been wondering
what you have been up to. Sounds like too much!! Be
sure to look up the pics.......they are fun, and at
the big club too. I am picking up more pics at
Walmart tomorrow, hopefully, and will post
them.<br

Hello friends, it's been so long since I wuz here
- thanks Doris C. for the addy - all my book marks
got erased. I've been having trouble w/ my e-mail,
memory (mine & computer's - :-)), etc - trying to keep
up w/ my job (which is my medical insurance
source!!), hip operation to put a pin in to stabilize the
bone while radiation & chemo do their jobs - back &
forth to Oahu for treatment, where I don't have
computer access. Anyway - that's why I haven't been
posting. I have alot to catch up on with you all - sounds
like you're a flurry w/ the recent trip - haven't seen
the photos but will try so I can put faces to you.
The taxotere may not be working - my doc talks about
me switching to navelbine - I know someone here is
taking that - I'd like to hear about it, side effects,
etc. Meanwhile, hugs to you all - Teunisse

All Hallow's Eve<br
-<br
scary stories of goblin visits<br
the night.<br
dead who walk in shrouded light -<br
filled with spirits.<br
bright -<br
here.<br

sending me a tape of the Des Moines trip. Harry
and I both have watched it several times. so nice to
see some of my special cyber friends, and so very
thoughtful of you to fix and send one to me.<br
that whom ever did the filming did an excellent job,
told him it mostly likely was Ken. Thanks again for
helping me to enjoy the trip. Big Hugs Betty

Karen,<br
I need to get your address again please email me with it.<br

I hope you all had a good nights sleep, I for one
could'nt sleep. To many thing running around in my head,
so I had to get up and jot them down. I think I may
have to much on my plate again, but I love it.<br
went to the Dr yesterday and got that cortizone shot.
I think it is working this time, for how long
remains to be seen. I took the afternoon off and just
layed around with the heating pad on my hip. I think
that helped it along.<br
We had so much fun this year, I cant wait till next
year. I need your votes on the next site. Denver,
Phoenix, or Baton Rouge La.<br
day<br

Just wanted to let you know I receive my tape
today. It is just wonderful, I have looked at it several
times. Thank you so much for thinking of me and fixing
me one. I just love it, you were really wonderful to
do all of these for us. Maybe one year I will be
able to go if its not too far away. Anyway with the
tape I feel like I was really a part of it. Thanks
again my friend, Hugs Betty

With a lot of consideration here are the choices
for next year. These were choosen based on the date,
wheather it was co-ed, and if there was lots of things to
do.<br
are planning on next year please send me your
vote<br
trips, contacting Komen etc.<br
volunteers to help me put this together.<br

some good thoughts for my first cousin, Lynn. She is having a biopsy this
morning. A lump was found during her mammogram and it was "iffy" . Thanks.
Doris F.

Do you have a picture program?if not,email them to me and i will fix them for
you.<br
program)just save them as jpeg or gif.

It's maybe because it is after 1 in he morning,
but I have been trying to post some pics. I got the
roll developed at Walmart, and had them put online.
When I try to post them, it says "invalid entry, needs
to be jpeg file." Mine say exe file. How do I do
this? Anyone know??<br

It is good to be here. I feel a certain closeness
with you all that I never had before. Not a closeness,
per-say, more an idenification, I guess. I am helping a
neighbor's best friend apply for SSD. She is stage 4, br ca,
and still working 3 8hr shifts a week in a busy ICU
as a secretary. She is just so against quitting
work. I feel so sorry for her. I talked with my
neighbor today, and she thinks that maybe this gal will
back out at the last minute. We made an appt for Fri
afternoon. I have such ambivolent feelings about this all. I
am just trying to spare her the hurt that goes along
with being terminated........I just know that sometime
soon, she will prob make a mistake, a big one, and the
hosp will fire her. She is so tired by the end of the
8 hrs, she leaves crying. I am asking for some
prayers for her, for clarity of thinking. I will let you
know how it goes.<br
with this url, here is a very touching
one...<br
target=new
Healing Energies,<br

Thanks so much for sharing your pictures, and I
am getting so excited about receiving Holly's tape.
Has not arrived yet, but I keep looking everyday. So
wonderful to be able to share all of this by pictures and
the tape that Holly make for all of us. Thanks for
everything my wonderful cyber friends. Hugs Betty

I got mine today to. I like the last part best. Now we are going to
haul---<br

Friendship Rose<br
and rare,<br
share.<br
caring and sharing, laughter and fun.<br
in trust and nurtured by love,<br
of grace from God up above.<br
joy, like dew,<br
you.<br
ourselves, to grow and bloom.<br
unsurpassed,<br
Hugs Betty

and I love it! Thank you so much for doing it for
us. The only part I did not like was the part showing
my face...and the reason...I'm afraid it looked like
me and as you know a lady always like to look better
than she really is.<br
something for the tape, postage, etc. I did them last year
for the group and I know how much it costs to mail
them. doris f

Hi Doris,<br
so glad there are groups like this! Makes it easier
to find people who can help. And I'm glad no one
minded me posting about Pillars of Hope. We really want
to help as many people as I can. <br
doctor and I don't have a foundation with lots of money,
so I can't really do much in terms of research or
funding. But I think Pillars of Hope can help people, if
we can just get the word out. : )<br
mom know about your invitation. She's not much of a
computer type, but I'll try to give her a little tutorial
on how to get here. <br
support!<br

Holly, we got our video on FRIDAY but didn't have
a chance to view it until Sunday evening. What a
precious gift you've given us. BIG HUGS to you and Ken,
thank you so very much. I'll consider it the best early
Christmas gift ever. Anxious to see your other pictures
too.<br
album, wasn't that fun? And your pictures are wonderful,
thank you so much for sharing. I'm sending them to my
sister, daughter and mother, too. Such a snazzy way to
share memories.<br

She had colon cancer 5 years ago. It was very
early and was removed. She didn't have to have chemo or
radiation. It was contained in the bowel. But it still
worries me about her back and she can't gain
weight.<br
back. I took her for an MRI this past week and they
found a ruptured disk and something else I can't
remember the name. They said it is pretty bad. She has
been in great pain this week. They are talking surgery
and it really scares me. She only only 4'11 and
weighs 90 lbs. She just can't seem to gain any? We have
bought her ensure and told her she is to drink at least
4 a day. I have been fixing meals and taking daily
so she won't have to cook. She lives right around
the corner so no trouble. I can be there in minutes
if she needs me. My step dad isn't much help. He
doesn't get around well either. I told her she needs to
get well so we can play! Please keep her in your
prayers. Her name is Emma Gene. She broke her ankle last
year and was told she has osteoporosis. They put her
on meds for it. When we went this past week they
also put her on a nasal spray for it. I'm really
worried about her...so please keep her in your
prayers.<br
the past Tomorrow is the future Today is a "Gift"
That is why it is called the "Present"

Lala, indeed your mother is in my prayers. My
daughter had ruptured disks and terrible back pain and
finally had surgery. She's like a new woman now, get lots
of opinions, then trust your doctors, I think the
surgery could really help. Also all of us who have bone
mets get Aredia every four weeks, to strengthen our
bones. I think women with osteoporosis can also receive
it, it's wonderful, amazing, I couldn't walk without
it. Could your mother benefit by having a day nurse
with her for a few hours a day? To encourage her to
eat and observe her daily activities? Please don't
feel like you must do this all by yourself, take
advantage of the many, many services available. Finally,
bless you and your mother.

Got the video........it's wonderful. Thank you so
much! What a wonderful momento to have. My favorite
part is when Joan is telling about me sleeping under
the afghan....."Afghan Queen"<br

My DM Pictures are in the album unfortunately
some of the film we used didn't get all used up so
there will be more when the film is completely used. I
also need Ken's advice on four that I am trying to
scan and load.<br
Sucked up leaves and went to the outlet mall to see if
they had my china at Dansk. Had some of my china but
not my "good" china. <br
God Bless,<br
two, so there are twenty.

Rosie! It was a great honor for me to meet both
of you. Sending Prayers and Angels to Karen. I have
4 sisters so I know how you feel. They do the race
here with me every year. It means a lot to have them
with me. Hope to bring some of them and hubby next
time. (((BIG HUG))) ~Lala~ ^^Å^^ ^^å^^
<br
"Gift" That is why it is called the "Present"

Hello All,<br
nice to put a face with a name! It was almost too much
for Karen on the way back she got really short of
breath BUT she wouldn't hear of a wheel chair. The
walk,casino,gifts,company was something that can't be bought or sold. I'm
sure we will all cherish our time together till the
next time we meet.(Hopefully in the spring) I do thank
you all for letting me be a part of this group. It
also gives me and my sister more time to spend
together and that is very special to me!<br
cleaning the house.Hope all is well!<br

click on the pink ribbon so Ford will donate
money to bc. doris F<br
with Ford, a company committed to breast cancer
awareness, in offering you a unique opportunity to make a
real difference in the fight against breast cancer.
The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation is
dedicated to finding the cure, and Ford is generously
participating in the funding of this important cause.<br
do your part, please take a moment to click on the
pink ribbon at <a href=http://breastcancer.webmd.com
target=new
will donate 25 cents, up to $25,000, for each "Click
for the Cure" program participant. <br
join WebMD, Ford, and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer
Foundation in their mission to eradicate breast cancer. This
program closes on Nov. 30, 2001, so spread the word.
Together we can make a big difference in the battle
against breast cancer.<br
Ford

hi. when i was typing earlier my brain was
working faster than my hands. my mom broke 3 vertebre in
august. she's been living w/ me. long story short on that
is we didnt know she had done that until last
thursday. her doctor didnt tell us. (she fell in the bath
tub. last thursday she fell again at my house. i took
most of the fall for her. (she landed on my legs),but
she broke 2 more then. the reason she did this was
because her cancer (which she didnt know about) had moved
into her spine. the neurologist told us this. it was
confirmed 2 days ago when the biopsy report came back. and
thats what brought me here. <br
and thank u all for the support so far. just reading
the messages gives me hope. i'm hoping and praying
that my mom can come on here and tell u what happened
one day herself. <br

Welcome to our group. <br

If anyone can help you these ladies can do it.
They will give you the latest secrets. They are all
living proof that you can live many years with mets.
After meeting these ladies this last weekend I am
thankful that they are living. They are the neatest
ladies. Prayers for your mom, dont let her give up tell
her to get mad if that is what it takes, but fight
this damn dragon with every breath. <br
HUGS<br

Nope not I, I am very anxious to see it though. You are such a sweetheart for
doing this.<br

Has anyone gotten the vid yet? I'm excited to hear what you all think.<br
:)

hi doris. thanks alot. just hearing from u makes
me feel lots better. my real name is sharesa. didnt
really think about it when i was typing. what is aredia
treatments?<br
she ready to quit. She will be in the hospital
atleast for another week. <br
fell in the bathtub and broke 3 vertebre, (long
story), anyway last thursday she fell again, and broke 2
more, thats when we got the unconfirmed diagnosis. the
confirmed diagnosis (biopsy)came wednesday night. the
doctors have told her when she leaves the hospital she
can have hospice come and in and help take care of
her. i think she's planning on doing that. not because
she's ready to die but because it would be easier on me
basically. (she lives with me and my family, since she fell
the first time). she has spots in her lungs and
liver. plus masses all over her back. i'm praying that
she can come on here one day and say the same thing.
<br
u're message very much.<br

Hello Shushu, I'm sorry to hear of your mother's
mets to her bones. There are several of us here who
are living with the same condition. I personally have
had bone mets for two years now and I intend to hang
around and win this battle for many more years.
Radiation did indeed help me with my pain, but so do
monthly aredia treatments and pain killers. Some people
find it difficult to believe I have stage iv cancer,
and if you could meet many of us you might feel the
same way. <br
questions? Need support for yourself? Would your mother join
and realize she's not alone, that there are many of
us here who believed we had weeks or months left to
live, only to realize there's LOTS of hope and life
left after a stage iv diagnosis.<br
know how we can best help you. Until then, know that
angels and prayers are being sent to you and your
mother, we're here day or night when the fears and the
tears hit, and we know they will come.<br
be back on board until Sunday but there are others
here on a daily basis.<br
name? It's very interesting!<br
HUGS,<br

I hope this finds you all with smiles on your
faces! I just had to stop by and tell you what a great
honor it was for me to meet some of the bravest ladies
in the world! And thank you all for making my trip
something I will never forget. My hubby John and I can't

Just wanted to say how much I appreciated the
card that I got from Des Moines with everyone that
signed it. Will put it in my special cancer book, so
very thoughtful of each of you to do this. Big Hugs
Betty

went well...he is however in quite a bit of pain.
The surgeon said that this was one of his most
successful reattachments of a tendon. We will , of course
know for sure that it was a success when the finger is
out of the bandages, splints, etc. and he can attempt
to use it. Thanks for all the prayers. doris f

Karen(who got home safely).... so glad you
posted. I thought you had said that you were getting
chemo on Mon, so I thought you might not post for a few
days. Isn't that something about you Hgb. Well, that
will do it to you! I was so glad to meet you, and I
too wish we all had more time together. Rest up and
feel better. <br
boost your counts,<br

Well My sister and I made it home safe,sorry for
the late time in posting.<br
yesaterday then I had chemo today found out why I was so
short of breath and so tired my hemoglobin was way
down.<br
meeting you all wish we had more time to visit.<br
next time I will make it sooner so the visits will
last longer.<br
here to let you all know we are home and safe and to
read that everyone else was home also.<br
to low 30's I guess we had better get used to
it.<br
to go somewhere warm next year lol)

Oh, WOW, Holly, that was fast&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt;what a busy Angel
you are!<br

Been reading all the post from all of you that
went to Des Moines. Sounds like you had such a
wonderful wonderful time. Sure wish I could have been there
also, maybe next year. Will be watching for all your
messages telling about the trip and what all you did
together and about everything. I am so excited about the
Video that Holly is mailing. I just cant hardly wait to
get it. Doris F send me one last year and I have
looked at it so many times. Who ever I need to pay for
the video copy please let me know. I just appreciate
it so much that you thought of me to fix me one.
Love to you all, Betty

I sent out all the Stage IV groups videos, so look for them in your mail.
<br

Kathy I will post the url when I get them there. Might be a bit as I am tired
and have eye surg. on Thurs. Will let all know when I get them there.<br
and Hugs, joan

Holly, I would be happy to help you record vidios.I have two vcr's. Just a
thought. Hugs Joan

I know you told me about IFOTO, but I CRS!!! So,
please put the url here, so we can go there and see the
great pics you took!<br
who went to DM, and made this last weekend so special
for me.<br

Well I am finally home. It was such an honor to
meet all of you. I love each and everyone of you.
Holly enjoyed closing sown the hotel bar with you and
Ken, and you did not talk to much. Thats how we learn
about each other is to talk. I cant wait till next
year. We had a very long day of flying yesterday,
finally made it home at 12:30. We sure didnt have the
security problem anywhere else that we had in Portland. It
was ok but I sure didnt want to miss my flight.lol I
love being able to put a face and a name together.
Well will post later must take a shower cant sit here
in pj's forever.<br

I watched the video that we made last night on
television. It was great!! I'm going to Walmart this morning
to pick up video cassettes. Ken put our still
pictures in yesterday for development so we should get
them today. Everyone here seems so happy and I'm so
glad.<br
yesterday. Could be off for 4 weeks until we go to Italy and
Germany. Man, I was mad. They ran out of work for me to
do. Thank the Lord I went on the trip to Des
Moines.<br
complements. Emerald I have to show Ken yours.<br

Hello Sue, and thanks for introducing yourself.
You have the right attitude about support and
surviving. I was at the Des Moines race but I honestly can't
say I saw you. There were lots of women in orange
traffic vests doing lots of cheering, but whether I saw
you or not, many people did and heard you cheering
them on. <br
of Hope organization, I'll take a peek at it a bit
later. And I'm certain I can come up with a recipe for
you!<br
is stage IV or would even like to participate here,
she's more than welcome, as are you.<br
regards,<br

Hi,<br
Des Moines Race for the Cure this past Saturday,
GREAT WORK! If you did the 5K OR the 1M, I was the
volunteer in the blue coat and orange traffic vest cheering
everyone on at the place where the two courses met. It was
my first time at the Race for the Cure, and it was
amazing to see how many people were there.<br
I'm here, I also wanted to let people know about a
new nonprofit organization, called Pillars of Hope
(<a href=http://www.pillarsofhope.org
target=new
patients and their
friends and family members. <br
survivor (two years now!), I wanted to do something to
help, and knew that breast cancer patients AND those
who support them needed more support
online.<br
designer and handmade hats to women who have lost their
hair during chemotherapy, a mentoring program
(matching survivors with newly diagnosed patients and
experienced caregivers with friends and family members of
newly diagnosed patients), chat rooms, message boards,
and lots more. At the Pillars of Hope web site
(<a href=http://www.pillarsofhope.org
target=new
requesting or
donating hats, finding or becoming a mentor, and how to
help Pillars of Hope. We're currently accepting recipe
donations for the Pillars of Hope 2001 Cookbook, and each
person who donates a recipe will receive a free
cookbook! <br
can stand alone, you don't have
to.<br
Hope<br
target=new

to all of you who participated in Des Moines...I
went to the National race in DC in June...It's such a
wonderful experience...I wish I could have been there to
meet all of you. You all just sound so
terrific.<br
need healing angels...<br
the Making Strides walk at Jones Beach...We were
pleasantly surprised that it was such a well attended
function. So many other causes here in NY have
suffered.<br
each of you.<br

Doris F., I am so glad that you have made it
home, and that your grandson's injuries aren't as bad
as you feared.<br
glad that you both made it home alright. I got home by
4pm. The home front did well without me. I am so
inspired by all the ladies I met...face-to-face...this
weekend. We are one great bunch of people, the ladies of
the clubs, their husbands and all who came with us.
We had a wonderful time, and Joan, I agree, I would
go again, in a minute, too.<br
write more tomorrow.......<br

and posted some pictures in the big club...did

Ladies, it's 11:16 a.m. Nebraska time and I just
pulled into my driveway... have hugged the dog and
husband (in that order) and wanted to ask for prayers for
Doris F. She got word yesterday afternoon that her
grandson had an accident with a machete in which both
hands were badly cut. Doris left Des Moines immediately
trying to get back to Louisiana late today. Her grandson
is scheduled for surgery this Tuesday and that's all
the information I have at this point. But please keep
her and her grandson in your prayers. As you can
imagine, the news was extremely distressing to Doris
F.<br
just say, WOW, what an amazing bunch of incredible
women.<br

Hi all<br
a wonderful trip. I enjoyed every minute! It is so
nice to share our feelings of sadness and joy with one
another. There was tears and laughter.Would go again in a
minute. Will tell more and post pictures another day.
Much tired tonite. Love and Hugs to all. Joan

bit to help raise money for breast cancer
reserch, education, etc. It rained! But we walked
anyway...we got back to the hotel soaked but happy....going
to Marianne's room now to eat lunch...we all brought
goodies from home and bought some local goodies at the
Farmer's market down the street....more later. doris P. S.
Holly, Karen and Lois made it in last night...all
arrived safely. doris fandal

Hey Doris.. That is wonderful that you won a gift
certificate. Glad to hear that both Joan and Doris C. arrived
safely. Thanks for posting this update and look forward
to more if you get a chance..telling us our
"sisters" arrived safeley and you are all have a GRAND
time. Wishing I was there..Hugs Julie

This is Doris Fandal posting from Des MOines. We
arrived last night; Doris C. and Joan W. arrived
today...we attended the survivor's luncheon and I won a
$50.00 gift certificate for a fancy dept. store's
cosmetic counter. Will tell all later what I won. Susan N.
from the other club also won a prize...a beautiful
pink comforter. We are having a great time....later
...doris

Well all my bags are packed and I know I will
have a blast but my sis is not feeling well hope she
is better by morning.<br
to me if I had it to all over again I would just
have drove.<br
on Friday night look out bought all the stuff today
being slow here I guess.I'm not very good with drawing
or stuff like that so we shall see what it will end
up like lol.<br
IN OUR HEARTS.<br
restfull weekend doubt I will if I get on a roll might be
making the hotel shake up lol.<br
of Love<br

when you walk that first lap at the cancer walk. I just envy all of you that are
about to meet each other and have such a wonderful time. Love you all and God
Bless. Hugs Betty

Thanks Betty. I am sorry you can't be with us but
we know your spirit will be there. You are truly a
great friend and hope we will be together another year.
I will certainly have pictures for you.Love and
hugs, Joan

Wow, I just caught up on another big batch of
wonderful posts... I think I may give up entirely on

For all of you ladies that are going to Des
Moines I hope you have a wonderful time. I just know it
is going to be such a wonderful experience meeting
everyone. Kinda like a big spend the nite sleeping bag
party. Remember how we use to do that in school, well
hope you have a great party. Will be looking forward
to hearing from you when you return. Hugs Betty

And a Happy Anniversary to us all......sharing in
the Club's 2 years....however many we have been
posting.<br
for the weekend. No rain, and highs in the 60's. But,
a friend of mine who visits Quincy on a regular
basis, says to pack warm clothes anyway, that it gets
colder up there!<br
cell phone number who sent it to me, incase I need it.
I will be leaving Fri morning. It is a 7.5 hr drive
for me, so I will get there when I get there, and am
looking forward to having lots of fun, seeing everyone,
and walking in the Race. <br
of you who aren't attending, that you are all with
us, anyway, in spirit. I'm sure we will take lots of
pictures and post them on the site. I didn't get to go
last year, and thought of everyone the whole time they
were gone.<br
and family are all so surprised that I am undertaking
such a trip by my self, but I think it will be good
for me, and I am so looking forward to seeing
everyone.<br

I envy all of you so much. Wish I had been able
to go this year, but just too far from here. Hope
allof you have a wonderful time, if anyone takes some
pictures I would really like one and the names so I can
put faces with the picture. Will be thinking of all
of you, also here is a great screensaver you might
like to download, changes pictures and has music. I
have it and really enjoy it, you just might would like
to check it out.
<a href=http://www.acpressions.com/screensavers/autumn/
target=new

Hi, if you or someone you know is suffering with
painful mouth ulcers or canker sores due to stress,
chemotherapy or radiation, please feel free to email me
privately for information and links that will help.
chesleyroad@...

Doris,<br
commitment. One of the other feelings that I have been going
through is depression. I bury myself in church and work
so that I don't have to think. Then I look, and it's
been a couple of weeks since I posted. Now, we are
really at war. In a strange way I am glad that I went
through cancer before this happened. The strength and
courage that all of you women show...the determination to
go on the best you know how. It's not just an
inspiration for bc, but it's an inspiration for fighting the
other cancer, terrorism. We learned to face life and
not let cancer steal our today. We can show the world
a thing or two about how to deal with something
mysterious...something that can attack any time any place...Can't
we?<br

Ladies I have to work tomorrow evening, so I
wanted to tell you all to have a safe trip. I will see
you when you get there. I will leave a message for

Ken & I have a twelve hour drive ahead of us. Oh brother! Starting Friday
morning because Ken's out of town until then. That's why we are getting in
late!<br

No kidding, we are all getting a bit excited
about getting together, aren't we? The three of us, if
we can all drive and get there, well, where there is
a will........there is definatly a way.......isn't
there, Ladies? I need to get van serviced tomorrow or
the next day. Apparently there is no waiting at the
dealers for service, I have heard. The kids are
like......."Oh no, your leaving us this weekend??" I am sure
they are worried about who is going to cart them
around all weekend. Tom is a great step-father, but he
is much less accomodating than I am. I think at
breakfast tomorrow, I'm going to talk to them about being
extra super nice to him this week so maybe he will
drive them around this weekend. He is always there for
games and practices and stuff like that, but a little
less about the other stuff. I am rambling.......Good
Night.......Kathy

that she hopes she will recognize some of
us...<br
who and most of the time we were pretty good at the
guessing game. So don't put a name tag on until you have a
chance to see the others. Anyway, I have the name tags
so maybe I won't give them out until we are all
together, then I could try to give the right tags to the
right lady and also to the right husband, dtr., sister.
I am so excited about getting to meet all of you.
Seems like only yesterday that we were in Baltimore and
then sometimes it seems like forever. I wish everyone
could come to one of the races in Louisiana next year.
My town's race is nice...small but very friendly.
Unfortunately the city is not too full of touristy things to
do. But if we did want to come here, I could promise
to put on a big Mardi Gras party in Sept. for any
who came. I cook a mean pot of gumbo!!! doris f. P.
S. Joan, if you are looking at last year's pictures,
add a few pounds and a lot of extra grey hairs to my
pic if you hope to recognize me.

How cool that you sang with them, Doris. My
daughter Genevieve (who just turned 16 last week) sings
with the Sweet Adelines in Bremerton, WA. She loves it
so much, and it is so good for her!<br
pretty smart cookie, too. She told me that she views the
ladies as mom-types, and that if (when) something
happens to me, she will have a whole group of surrogate
moms that will watch after her.<br
of all you guys who are getting together. I can't
wait to see all the pictures.<br

I added some new pictures to. One is the quilt.<br

Hello all,<br
is coming thats great.<br
get away from all the news of the bombing going on
now.I knew it was going to happen but just didn't know
when.<br
Friday but I do have the Faith.We will be in DM around
2:30 in the afternoon so we won't be able to make the
lunch thing.Our flight leaves out on Sunday
afternoon.Holly the paint on the face sounds so cute I would love
to join along and so would my sister.The Hotel told
us that to just call for a pick up and they would be
there.<br
I know I will change my mind at least 20 times
lol.<br
girls over there fighting.<br
Love<br

I am getting to like this photo thing. Its lots
of fun. I added some more. Everyone getting ready?
My husband wants me to take the train if no one can
ride with me. I don't know about that since the events
of today. I still think I will enjoy the ride, by
myself. Today we were with my Mom and Dad at a Jublilee
Mass celebrating 25 and 50th anniversary years at our
Cathedral. How wonderful. There were over 300 couples
celebrating either 25, 50 or 50 plus years of marriage. It
was a wonderful celebration, a beautiful mass, that
lasted over 2 hrs. We took some pictures afterward. They
are enjoying their new house, I am so glad, since it
is so much smaller than the other one.<br
great day,<br

DM.....they better watch out, they dont have a
clue what they are in for. lol We may flood the place
with all our tears....Yes I will probably cry lots of
them. Doris I am really just an old softy. Yesterday I
got to meet a new member in the big club, it was such
fun she is a sweety. She has stage 4. We walked in a
cancer walk together. Took lots of pictures, will post
as soon as they are back.<br

I am getting so excited, and so glad so many of
us can go. My Mom keeps voicing her concerns about
me driving by myself, but I think it will be great
to be by myself for a change. I plan on getting some
books on tape to listen to. <br
us all for uneventful journeys<br

what a great idea. thanks Holly<br

I'm bringing pink face paint to put pink ribbons on my face cheeks. Anyone else
interested can use it too!<br

I just remembered...when we are at the race site
the morning of the race, we will be getting a lot of
goodies and sometimes the bags they give you are too
flimsy to hold everything...so if you have a kind
denim/heavy fabric tote bag, you might want to bring it
along...you can use it for Camera, film, etc. and all the
goodies. <br
usually started dragging ourselves down to the hotel
restaurant/coffee shop to eat together...that way, we did not all
have to get there at the same time. We really did stay
up late so we never ate breakfast too early. The day
of the race, there will be all kinds of food for
us...yogurt, fruit, bagels, donuts, coffee, juice for an
example. Some races have more food that others so don't be
surprised at the amounts and variety. In Baltimore, they
did not put out spoons for the yogurt so we had to
kind of drink it...LOL I wonder if I should put a
plastic spoon in my bag???<br

Dear Marianne-
I looked at your webpage and read "The Women You Love". It was wonderful. You
must be very happy and proud of your husband.

I'm goin to Des Moines. My boss is letting me take next Friday off after all.
Ken and I won't be there till late though. Is there still a Saturday night
dinner? I'm really excited.<br

Holly, you know no one here will let you out of
going now, don't you??? Good for you. It was so sad
hearing you wouldn't be there. But if you're staying at
the Hotel Fort Des Moines, ask if there are any
messages for you when you check in. We will make SURE you
know what rooms we are all in and what time things
start. If you didn't get registered ahead of time, I
think you can do that on Saturday, too. I guess this
means you and Ken will be driving, right? And yes,
there is going to be a big group dinner on Saturday
night, and more than likely we'll hang out together for
breakfasts and lunches as well. This is really wonderful
news, Holly. I know you won't be sorry.<br
hugs, Doris C.

Hello Rose, good to hear from you again. You
know, sometimes I feel sorry for my friends and family,
even the extended family. They can't win with me
because nothing they say or do can make this go away, and
ultimately that's what I want. I don't like to make them
uncomfortable around me so I try to be as "normal" as possible
and in lots of ways, that's dishonest. I so
understand Kathy wanting to scream at her husband that she
hasn't been alright in three years. That's honest! But
we know we would wear out those closest to us if we
were brutally honest every day, so we come here. And
somehow the honesty and the tears and the complaints just
don't wear us down at all. I truly don't understand it,
but that's how it is here. I can mention in passing
that my back hurts here, and for days after that,
people remember and ask. They understand that even the
mention of pain or discomfort usually means that there is
much, much more under the surface. I don't know how to
help my friends and family, but I sure am glad no one
is telling me I'm good enough that I should get back
to work and stop feeling sorry for myself. Kathy,
you're very kind toward your mother who would love to
have the power to simply declare you well.
<br
really let it hang out, people in your family would
start to feel more comfortable around you and find it
easier to ask the simplest question about how you're
doing without fearing that they will unleash an
avalanche of unpleasantness. <br
Joan said, that cancer doesn't make saints out of
anyone... not us, and not those around us. When I first
realized I was stage iv, I didn't want ANYone to encourage
me, I was so angry about the diagnosis. I didn't want
to believe this could possibly be an opportunity for
growth for me, either. But it has been an amazing
journey of growth. I think it's one way that the higher
power of this universe gets our attention, not that he
gives us cancer to get our attention, but once we get
it, that power definitely has us listening more
carefully. And then we're so much more ready and open for
the changes we need to make in our own lives. I can
tell you that the person who has changed the most
since my diagnosis has been me. And I'm grateful for
that. <br
brought you here so we can become friends. There will be
people participating in the Komen Race for the Cure in
Des Moines in about a week and a half and we will be
carrying your name on our shirts. Expect goodness, Rose,
because miracles really do happen.<br
C.

Jeana........I have a 7 hr drive, or 8, and I
will be leaving Fri morning. I want to say that I will
be there for the luncheon, I want to be there, but I
don't think I will be able to make it. I am getting so
excited about the trip.<br
of St Francis of Assisi. Don't forget to kiss your
pets in his name...........Kathy

Karen & Kathy are you planning on attending the
luncheon that the Komen people are putting on. Please let
me know. Virginia needs to put your name on the
list. This luncheon is free for cancer
patients/survivors etc. Doris I put you name as a possible.<br

I guess if your weren't real close to the
relatives before BC they will retreat to their own
ways.<br
6yrs. Right now I have had steady treatments for a year
and a half. I do not hear from them only occasioally.
They are busy with their lives and family. Sometimes
it is hard for them because they don't know what to
say! I always tell them I know they care in their own
way.<br
needs don't get met by relatives, they sure will here.
All your have to do is ask and much support and love
is found here.<br
and share with us how you feel. We will listen. It is
not easy living with this disease. We all need
support and encougement from friends and relatives from
time to time. It is a journey we cannot go
alone.<br

HI, I HAVE NOT POSTED FOR A LONG WHILE, BUT HAVE
BEEN READING YOUR POSTS. NEED TO ASK A QUESTION FROM
LONG TIMERS OF B.C. SURV..<br
I AM A 2 YR., SURVIVER OF B.C. STAGE 3A, LUMP., 4 -
CEMO., 28 RAD, 12/4 POSITIVE NODES, LYMPHEDEMA LEFT
HAND. IN REMMISION.<br
THE RELATIVES IN MY FAMILY FOR THE PAST YEAR HAVE
TAKEN BACK THEIR LOVE, CONCERN, CARE AND COMPATION.
THEY RARELY CALL AND ARE EVEN AFRAID TO ASK HOW I AM
REALLY FEELING AND WHAT IS GOING ON WITH MY HEALTH AND
OR TREATMENTS. (WHICH WILL BE WITH ME FOR THE REST
OF MY LIFE!) MY SISTER WHO IS MY ONLY SIBLING
CHOOSES NOT TO TALK TO ME (SAYS I AM TO MUCH OF A
NEGITIVE PERSON IN HER LIFE,). BUT WE WERE NEVER CLOSE,
SHE IS 4 YRS, YOUNGER THAN ME. MY MOTHER JUST WANTS
TO HEAR THAT ALL IS WELL, SO THAT IS WHAT I TELL
HER.(SAYS THAT BECAUSE OF MY B.C., SHE GOT DIABITES, WHICH
DOES RUN IN MY FAMILY, AND I HAVE HAD IT FOR OVER 7
YRS, TYPE 2, I TAKE MEDS FOR IT .) MY FAVORITE CUSINS,
ARE TO BUSY WITH THEIR OWN LIFE. SAME WITH OLD
FRIENDS? WHAT IS GOING ON, IT IS NOT AIDS, IT IS
B.C.???<br
NORMAL OR AM I JUST TO SENSETIVE??? I FEEL AS THOUGH I
AM THE BLACK SHEEP OF THE FAMILY, NO ONE IN MY
FAMILY HAS EVER HAD CANCER.<br
HAVE MY HUSBAND. WHO HAS BEEN THERE FOR ME 150% AND MY
SONS. BUT I FEEL THAT I AM TO MUCH OF A BURDEN ON THEM,
ESPECIALY WHEN I GO THROUGH ALL THESE TESTS AND UNTIL I GET
THE RESULTS,I DO NOT SLEEP WELL, I CRY, GET
DEPRESSED, AND VENT ON THEIR SHOULDER.<br
FWD TO HEARING FROM YOU. THANK YOU. R.S.M

Yes she is quite the little mother. You are just
going to love her. I sent a list to Virginia telling
her who all is going to be in DM. She is going to
find a restaurant so we can get together for dinner
friday night. She said that there is a lot of cheap
places to eat near our hotel. Yes comfortable shoes are
a must, we walked everywhere we went. Except the
day we went sightseeing. Are you getting pumped,
sounds like Karen will be. lol Karen isnt it funny I am
traveling to Iowa to meet you. I seems like yesterday that
you were in Oregon. Saturday I am going to walk in a
cancer walk put on by the sophmorist to benefit people
that have no insurance and have cancer. I will meet
Laura who is a member of the big club, cant wait for
that either. She lives in Jefferson, and the walk is
in Aalbany where I grew up. Most of my family live
there. I am going to waear myself out
walking.lol<br

Ladies, Doris F. who was at the Baltimore race
last year recommends that we plan on wearing kthe most
comfortable shoes we own for the entire time we are in Des
Moines. I'll bet her kids rarely caught a cold, do ya
think??? Thanks, Doris F.

Karen so happy you will be there. Will finally
get to meet!! Its OK it your bouncy!! I am going to
drive. I can't take any thing for pain while driving. I
will just have to get out and move every couple of
hours. Its mainly my lymphodema arm that gives me
problems when driving. Its a little over five hr drive.
Plan to take pillows to prop it with. OH Well it
certainly could be a lot worse.<br
till me meet. Love, Joan

Hello all,<br
I'm excited and a little scared the flying part has
me a little scared.But thinking of meeting all of
you will help me alot.We won't be in for the Lunch
thing Our flight gets in around 2:30 so we should be at
the Hotel around 3 or 3:30.Has anyone made any plans
for the evening for supper and stuff?<br
the ONC yesterday and got my Aredia and Herceptin and
he wanted me to go on the 50mil patches to help my
pain and I told him they make me to sleepy so guess
what he is putting me on Ridlin you know the stuff
they give to kids for ADD.Well he told me it would
work the oppisite on me it would give me spark and
want to get up and go so look out girls I might be
banging off the walls when I get up there lol.<br
today to get my prescibtions filled and will take it
for the first time tomorrow so will let you all now
how it goes.<br
to meet in DM but you sure will be in our minds and
hearts.<br
carpet so I better go I can't wait for my new carpet and
I even get new furniture it will look so nice
something I have been wanting for a few years.<br
all and we will be counting down the days.<br
Hugs and Lots of Love<br
bouncing ball of the party lol)

I woke up this morning thinking of Des Moines and
what I want to take and what to do to include
Holly.... it's going to be good for me to have a project to
focus on as well as having a rip-roaring time.
<br
doing okay? How are folks doing? <br
all,<br

They are not regulation and some people do make
their own...in fact, I think I will use pink paper and
make my own so I can get it all printed out ahead of
time. I can use the one I had last year as a guide. But
the ones they give you just say <br
of... and In Memory of (or it might be In Loving Memory
of). doris

Doris........You are so sweet to make the journals. I'm sure we all can send
Holly something too......Kathy

Doris F., are the In Celebration Of and In Memory
Of cards regulation? Provided by the Race
organizers? Or can we make our own cards at home, perhaps in
a different shape than a rectangle? Thanks for your
help....<br
of October. And I will also be happy to send to
Holly as many memories as I can create.<br
friends.<br

Jeana this is a great idea, sure want to get a copy of your articles when you
are finished. I am sending you one that happened to me by your email address.
Hugs Betty

Hi Holly,<br
to go. Of course I am not going either, just too far
from Georgia, but I know we both with there with them
in spirit. Sounds like they will be having a
wonderful time, but I am sure they will give us a full
report on everything when they return. Just wish we both
could be involved but sometimes it is not possible.
Hugs Betty

This was in my Fuzzy stories today, but for those
of you that do not get that I wanted to
share.<br
friends need friends<br
full life depends<br
acclaim<br
knowing that someone cares<br
their thoughts and prayers<br
knowledge<br
wonderfully good<br
greatest need<br
heed<br
kindred spirit<br
longing<br
make us aware<br
richness depends<br
loved ones and friends. <br

cards" that we wear on our shirts at the
Race.<br
the opportunity to pin a big tag on their back with
the names of someone who has lost this battle with
breast cancer on it. The top of the tag (which is a big
rectangle) says, "in Memory of". <br
tag which says "in Celebration of". This is for
friends, family, etc. who are fighting this battle and are
surviving.<br
your first names...sooooo if you would please send me
(or perhaps you could send the list to Doris C.) your
first name, I can include it on my list. Since I know a
lot of survivors, I usually type my list before I go
so I don't have to spend the entire day writing.
Last year, my card "in celebration of" was so full but
there is always room for just one more name.
<br
first names of the members here, please send them to me
when the list is complete (but before the 10th) so I
can start tying them onto my card. Thanks.
Doris<br

Ladies, in the big club some of the ladies have
been exchanging stories about their prothesis. They
are so funny, so I made a suggestion about putting it
all in a book. I have been elected to do this. So if
you know any funny stories about prothesis, send them
to me and I am going to put it together in a book.
Or if you know someone who would like to share a
rather embarrassing or funny thing, send it to me at
jdc@...<br

Joan, I will have a pulmonary lab workup this
Wednesday and maybe they will decide it's allergies also.
What I do know is that my dr. has promised to finish
this for me. I suppose there are several things it
could be, but what I mostly care about is getting it
stopped. So, yours went on for years? And I thought 9
months was a long time.<br
encouragement.<br
Doris C.

Ladies,<br
of my work. I'm temping right now and I can't get
the time off, also we need the money. So sorry. I
really would like to see everyone that's why this
decision is coming at the last minute.<br