LovesLife

Hi Angie: I joined just a couple of years ago so I don't know you, but welcome back! One thing I must say - you should never ever be ashamed of when you come or when you go - you come when you are able. I take breaks from here - I am sure most do. While it is a wonderful place for support and you meet the most wonderful people - it does take it's toll. Hearing bad news, losing friends ... it all hurts. There are also the wonderful moments - hearing the good news and celebrating with those you care about. You lost your dad and you did what you needed to do for yourself. I am so happy to hear that you are doing better emotionally. I am sorry for the loss of your dad and I'm sure he would be so proud of you for coming back to help others who are going through this. Nice to "meet" you Angie and welcome back! Linda

Hi Joyce - your nickname from your dad made me smile - my husband and I always call our daughter (13) Missy Moo (not quite as endearing as Sister Sue) and while she sometimes gives us the eyeball roll when we say it, we know deep down she doesn't mind at all. Wow, what a journey you have had. It all seemed so benign - who doesn't have acid reflux at one time or another. I am so sorry that it brought you to a lung cancer diagnosis. I am glad you got rid of the insensitive clod who gave you your diagnosis and then didn't have the decency to let the oncologist give you the details - grrr!! It sounds as though you have much to fight for (future grandchildren) and your own family. Welcome to this "family" and I look forward to getting to know you. Linda

Thanks Katie - NED and out living life - great news!!! Linda

Katy - what wonderful news for you and Gene. Good news always does wonders for the psyche! It is great to hear he enjoyed some clam chowder - onward and upward to popcorn in the future. Linda

(((((Judy))))) Many, many hugs, Linda

Jim - AWESOME news - enjoy mowing the lawn, riding your motorcycle and all the other fun things that summer brings! Linda

Hi RocknRollPaddy and welcome, although I am sorry that you have need to be here. When I received my diagnosis (almost 3 years ago) my kids were 10 and 11. It certainly affects everyone in the family. My daughter had a great deal of difficulty being away from me (especially at night-constantly had need to sleep with me/near me in order to sleep). I did get a counsellor to help her as there were things she just talked to her about that she wouldn't discuss with me (her fears about death, etc). It was also helpful to keep the teachers in the loop so they could let us know if there were any changes in behavior. After hearing those words "You have lung cancer" my perspective of what to gripe about has certainly changed since then. I was, until diagnosis, like everyone else - ignorant and unaware of how life can change in a heartbeat. I am still no saint-still lose my patience and still human, but I am more aware (if that makes any sense). I guess I have less empathy for the stupid arguments that people have - they seem pointless and sad all at the same time. I imagine you see that daily in your work! I can't imagine how difficult it is to get through the work day when fatigue is such an issue. Is there any possibility of cutting back hours to a more manageable level for you? Or does work keep you sane? I am so sorry that you and your family are having to go through this. We are here for you. Linda

Paul, I am so very, very sorry to hear about Michael. This disease is absolutely unfair and I am so sorry for your loss. You were both so fortunate to have each other and I hope you find the strength you need in the difficult days ahead. Hugs, Linda

Ginny - many prayers for your friends. Linda

Connie - thank you so much for starting this thread - I look to see if she has posted an update everytime I stop in. Thinking about you Tiny and hope to hear from you soon! Hugs, Linda

Katie - as usual a day late to the party Anyhow, ditto everything Susan said - you are the best and I hope you had a wonderful birthday. Linda

((((Sandra)))) ... your post brought me to tears and I wish there was something, anything, that I could say or do that would make you feel better. I hate that the pain is back, I hate that you can't feel secure about making plans and I mostly hate that you have to deal with this at all in the first place. You are right - it is so unfair. I hope you know that I keep you in my prayers (not just saying that - your name is mentioned quite often at our dinner table at prayer time) and hoping that our prayers will be answered. You are such a sweet and brave lady and you have touched my heart. I hope tomorrow brings a better day. Sending a great big hug from not-so-sunny Alberta. Linda

Caren - I am so very sorry to hear about your dad. No matter how we try to prepare, we are never prepared for them to leave, so I understand the shock. I am sure that the day will be everything you want it to be and more - you loved him deeply and that will show in every action. I am wishing you peace and strength in the difficult days ahead Caren. Linda

Shelley - wow, your mom is something! It's great that she not only exceeded her doc's expectations but pretty much blew them out of the water. Living life to the fullest - she is doing just that!! So very happy for all of you. Linda

Mitch - I am so sorry to hear what happened to you; however, like you said I'm glad the idiot didn't have a weapon! You look awesome and you put me to shame with your 2 hour work outs - I try to do 30 minutes on my bike and some days that is a challenge. I'll have to remember your committment and try to bring that to the table (so to speak! I believe the table is where the problem started-LOL) I am so glad to hear that your mom is doing so well. I think of her as she and I were diagnosed pretty close to the same time period and it makes me so happy she is hearing those magic words "NED" time after time. I hope your recovery goes smoothly and that this is just a blip in the road that is soon a distant memory. Take care my friend, Linda

What great news Tom and Denise! So happy for you both. Linda

What great news Eileen - you both rock! Linda

Great news Rob! Enjoy the summer. Linda

Pam - I am definitely chiming in with everyone else - CONGRATULATIONS! I am hopeful I will follow in your fantastic footsteps at my year CT scan in June! I am so-o-o happy for you!!!! Many hugs, Linda

Tina - I am so sorry to hear about your mom. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Linda

Please accept my condolences on the loss of your wonderful Pop-Pop. I wish you and your family peace and strength in the difficult days ahead. Linda

Tina - I am so very sorry to hear about your mom. Wishing you peace and strength in the very difficult days ahead. Linda

Excellent news Nonni! I always keep an eye open for your updates and so happy that you had another great result. Hope you enjoyed the celebration! Hugs, Linda

((((Wendy))) ... I certainly do remember you and Maurice and I am so terribly sorry to hear of his passing. He fought so hard and endured much and he was so lucky to have you by his side every step of the way. I wish you peace and strength in the difficult days ahead - my heart absolutely aches for you. Hugs, Linda

Corinne passed away on Wednesday - she is no longer in pain and is hurting no more. She was a very special lady and will be missed very much. Linda