LovesLife

Hugs to you both! Linda

Many prayers for Marisa and her family. Those steroids are not always easy to deal with! Linda

Thank you SO-O-O much to everyone who replied. Much to my delight I received a phone call after I got home from work tonight from the hospital. The girl I had been dealing with told me that she went to the radiologist and explained my concern as to why was it being done with contrast this time around - she told him that I was now worried that he had seen something untoward that was missed by the previous radiologists. She told me that he immediately asked for my file and all ct scans and read them then and there. He told her that I was absolutely right and that there was no indication that I would need a contrast CT. I apologized to her again for being so persistent and she very kindly told me that she appreciates a patient who stands up for themselves - as you guys said - it is my body! She agreed that there is absolutely nothing wrong with getting more aggressive testing IF it is needed. Luckily in this case it wasn't. Perhaps this doctor always orders them with contrast (I have not had this radiologist before even though I am going to the same facility), but I feel better that he has actually looked at my previous scans and is agreement that I can continue as is. So, 4 months until I can really start my scanxiety stressing. I'll be looking forward to you all propping me up and getting me through at that time once again (does it ever get easier?!) Thank you all for making me feel better (I really wasn't sure anymore if I was being ornery for no reason ) Again thanks guys - you're all the best!!! Hugs, Linda

I have yearly scans (CXR at 6 months) and my next appointment for CT scan is already scheduled for May 26th. However, this time the radiologist (not my thoracic surgeon) has requested a scan with contrast. I haven't had this test done since prior to my diagnosis. All my previous scans have been fine. I contacted my surgeon's office and the receptionist stated that it was the radiologist that made this determination as they simply requested a regular scan. After repeated calls to the radiology department to find out why (I was told the radiologist wouldn't tell me why - only the doctor!) I told her to tell the radiologist that I refused to get the contrast unless he could explain why. Do you think I am being ornery? Having worked in the medical field for many years, perhaps I am a little more tainted than others and don't just follow along and do what I am told. I am just nervous about putting stuff in my body when it isn't necessary. Anyhow, give me the truth folks - if you think I am behaving badly I will listen and back off. Thanks, Linda

I have fond memories of the milk delivery too! I told my teenage kids a short while ago about how my mom would put our empty milk bottles in the milk box (it was a designated spot outside the house with a latch and all!) and how filled milk containers would mysteriously appear. By the looks on their faces they think I am insane and made up the whole thing! Thanks for the great memory! Linda

Melanie - you brought me to tears reading that. I got that very same card from my best friend on my diagnosis and I still recall the feeling it brought to me - great peace. I knew, after reading that, no matter what that I was loved and had a strength I couldn't even imagine. I still have that card tucked away in my memory box and always will. Thank you for bringing back such a beautiful memory and feeling Melanie. What would we do without our friends! Linda

Excellent advice! Linda

Joining the late crowd Denise - what FANTASTIC news!!! The onc sounds like a great guy ... sure glad he didn't fail the boards - he's been a real life saver! CONGRATULATIONS to both of you. Linda

Melanie - one thing I think is important - I am more than 3 years out from the surgery and while I remember I had some pain, it's a very distant memory. I guess it's like child birth - it sure hurts like crazy at the time, but our mind has a wonderful gift of being able to know that it hurt, but not relive it over and over again (otherwise we'd all just have one child and be done with it!) So, hang on to that thought - whatever pain you come upon with your surgery - God willing it will be short lived! We are all rooting for you here and waiting with you. Hugs, Linda

Hi Melanie - great news that it is contained within' the lung. As to the epidural and catheter - I don't recall having any big issues with either of these. I do, however, remember that I had some significant pain from the chest tubes; however, once they were out it was fine. I had a reaction shortly after surgery (an overdose actually-we found that I don't need alot to keep me pain free) to the pain meds and they actually had to give me a drug to counteract the pain meds. Thus, I went from feeling really happy and pain free (albeit not breathing at times although I didn't know it!) to no pain meds and severe pain within seconds. So, my pain from the chest tubes could have been legit; however, it could also have been from that incident. In any event, I remember through it all chanting to myself about how "lucky" I was (and I still consider myself very lucky) to be able to have surgery. This hurry up and wait stuff is definitely hard! I hope the time passes quickly for you and before you know it the surgery date is upon you. Take care, Linda

Whoo hoo! Congratulations Kasey!!! Linda

Melanie - hi again - I don't visit very often but I will definitely be back to check up on you and see how your visit went. Wishing you the very best results!!! Linda

Melanie: I am with Debi - it was my first surgery ever as well (and like her not on my top 10 of things I'd like to repeat) but I must say that it was very manageable. On my 3rd day post-op (they kicked me out of the hospital less than 48 hours after procedure-VATS though) I was out walking (did about 1/2 mile). I stayed on minimal doses of T3's for a week and then was off them completely. Everyone is different and each surgery is different (even if they go by the same name!), but you definitely have the benefit of being younger. I am sorry that you have to go through such a rotten experience at such a young age though. Take care, Linda

Another great check up - whew - no matter what I always sweat until the results are in. CT scan is in June and I am ever hopeful that the good news continues. Best to everyone, Linda

Donna - way to go girl!!!! Twelve years - you ROCK! Here's to many, many, many more. Linda

This is so horribly sad. I, like everyone else, thought that Rich was indestructible. I am so sorry for his family and many friends for this huge loss. His upbeat "can do" attitude will very much be missed. Linda

Hey BAC sister - I talked to my thoracic surgeon and he said I should get it as this is a flu that really affects the lungs. I got mine on Friday and aside from a sore arm and feeling a little fatigued for a day or two, it went fine. Mind you, I never had any problems with any previous shots either like you experienced, but if it helps any the virus is dead (at least here in Canada-maybe not there though?!?) so you shouldn't get sick from it. Like I said though, perhaps the vaccines are different there than in Canada. This is really a personal choice for so many...I know a lot of people in the medical field here and just went on their perspective. If you trust your family doc go with that. Good luck with whatever decision you make. Take care Pam, Hugs, Linda

Congratulations to both of you - you walked it together and you get to celebrate this huge milestone together! Ditto to many, many more to come! Linda

(((Michelle))) - my heart is so sad to read this news. The tears are flowing freely as I read the words of love between you and the love of your life - what you gave to each other is absolutely amazing. I am so very sorry that your time together was cut short - it is so horribly unfair. I hope the memories and love will help you through the difficult days and years ahead. My deepest condolences. Linda

Happy Birthday Cindy! I agree with you - birthday's are wonderful, especially with the insight we have. Congratulations on the retirement package - sounds like a good opportunity to improve that golf game and "putter around the house" until something else beckons. The road back to "normal" is emotionally trying, but it sure sounds as though you are all the way there. I am 3+ years out and still find there are times when the fear gets a hold of me (usually when I have some symptom that is out of the norm-then I am certain the cancer is back!) and it is at those times that I think of you, Debi, or Snowflake (to name a few) and it strengthens me. So, I thank you, and the rest of the members here that help prop me up when I need it. Take care Cindy, Linda

Bruce - this is the week we could use some good news and this is definitely AWESOME! I am so happy for you - I will definitely tip a good ol' Canadian (or Bud - whatever is handy) to your great news. Linda

www.mccallbros.com/sandra-lenz-nee-sills/ Sandra Lenz (nee Sills) Lenz, Sandra (nee Sills) Jan. 21, 1964 – Oct. 3, 2009. Sandra will never be forgotten, greatly loved and missed by her family – husband Patrick, daughter Samantha, son Nathan, mother Margaret Sills (Regina), father Gregory Sills (Shirley) White Rock, sisters Karen Haverstock (Brent) Calgary and Darlene Toews (Vernon). She is also cherished by her in-laws June and Peter Lenz (Taber, AB) and sister-in-law Jennifer Eriksson (Chris) Calgary as well as her 7 nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. She was given courage and support from her best friends Monica Tolson, Linda Kuntz, Daryl and Wendy Wingerter. Sandra was born in Vancouver and then grew up in Regina where she completed her elementary, high school and university education, followed by her Chartered Accounting designation while employed at Saskatchewan Provincial Auditors. Her move to Victoria in 1993 was soon followed by her marriage to Patrick on Aug. 13, 1994. To be a wife and mother are her greatest achievements along with a highly successful career at the BC Auditor General’s Office and the BC Pension Corporation, where she rose to the position of Chief Financial Officer. Sandra’s motto was to Live, Laugh and Love. She carried these through everything she did. Love and prayers carried Sandra through her courageous battle with cancer. She kept strong each day for her family, accompanying them on an Alaskan cruise in August. The Mass of the Resurrection and celebration of Sandra’s life will be held 11:00AM Wednesday, Oct 7 at Sacred Heart Church, 4040 Nelthorpe Road. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may donate to the Canadian Lung Association. Offer Condolence for the family of Sandra Lenz (nee Sills) To send a private condolence, click here

Hey Debi! I am 3+ years since surgery and like you told me repeatedly - it does get better as far as the anxiety and constant waiting for the other shoe to drop. I still manage to get myself pretty worked up at my annual scan time, but even that seems to be improving as time passes. I remember so clearly thinking once I heard those words "you have lung cancer" that I best start preparing and planning for the worst. At that moment I never thought I would be here today fully participating in life and making plans for the future. I started working last year (in a totally different field - I was a medical secretary many years ago and now I am a bank teller!); we bought a big trailer that we enjoyed camping with every weekend this summer; and I have watched my kids grow in inches and attitude (teens!). There is definitely life after cancer. Thank you for being my beacon Debi - you guided me through the most miserable moments and by requesting our stories you are helping many others new to this journey. BTW, you look awesome girl! Linda P.S. Muriel - good luck with your upcoming scan-can't wait to read your update in the Good News section!

Patti - you are something girl - I have nothing but admiration for your daily courage and the way you put yourself out there for everyone on these boards. Hearing your good news was much needed today in the face of so much bad news lately. I will look up your name once it is entered in the Guiness World Record Book which should be there for your tenancity and kick a** attitude! A huge CONGRATULATIONS on 3 years ... you will be at Nick's graduation and all the other milestones that he has! Linda

The tears ... the heartache. I so identify with Bruce - we became friends over the past couple of years ... sharing stories of our children, our lives, our hopes and dreams and our fears. We, too, talked about getting together to actually "meet" and share some laughs. And now ... There are no words to describe the sadness I feel for Sandra's family - I know she never wanted her children or her husband to have to deal with the insanity of this disease. With a heavy heart and many tears I say "God speed, my friend, until we meet in heaven." Linda