Hello everyone!

Still alive and kicking.  Been awhile I know.  I have been waiting because of some big news that I needed to keep quiet on for a bit.

Things have slowed down as far as my medical status which is so refreshing.  I only have to go to the hospital once every three weeks to see my Onc for a check up on my Xeloda chemo pills side effects and blood work.  Blood work is used to show how my kidneys and liver are taking the meds as well as anything else that may be off.  So far so good 👍

My side effects have been okay.  They seem to be getting collectively worse as I go along.  First round was a small Hand-Foot Syndrome  (HFS) on my big toes.  The second round my mouth was very sensitive to heat, spice, and hard objects, kind of like it's thinned out.  This third round I have really started to experience the HFS.  My fingertips are very sensitive, and the bottom of my feet hurt when stepped on, I also have developed GI issues that can be double over painful but do subside, and a rash on my chest.  I see my onc next Thursday.  So, the fun continues.  Only 4 months left.  Can't wait to see what comes next!

I have big news for me.  Like Alice Cooper stated......

I have resigned from Franklin Public Schools.  With my medical status being uncertain and the stress that the job caused, my doctors advised me to not return at this time.  Being beyond the one year contract we had come to, it was negotiated that I leave.  At first it was sad.  How do you say goodbye to a work family you have been with for 24 years?  I know some people as well as my own family members and will miss the daily interaction. That is the hardest part.  As time goes on I know I will be very happy.  I now have time to do all those things everyone dreams of while they are sitting at work.  With my medical issues always being uncertain, I jump when I can and I sit when I must.   I wish all of them the best.  They have been an intricate part in my journey.  I hope they too can find the happiness that I have.

I have sent a volunteer application to ABCD, After Breast Cancer Diagnosis.  Haven't heard back yet, but want to try and help others get through this shitty experience.  I hope to find others like me with the Trifecta of breast cancer (triple negative, IBC, BRCA2+).

I am going to use this time to get back to healthy.  I'm returning to the gym (I abandoned) with my husband.  Maybe take a yoga class or two.  I have also discovered I enjoy crafting.  I find it helps me relax, I watch something come to life, and it keeps my mind off cancer for awhile.

For anyone that hasn't watched Greys Anatomy lately, there is a new storyline of the mother of a main character that was given an IBC diagnosis.  I look forward to the story unfolding and seeing how they depict this relatively unknown form.   Very glad to see this covered on a popular series.  Even if its short lived, it has made it to the public better.

As always, set aside a few minutes each month to give the ladies a once over.  Early detection is so vital, especially with rare forms.  Men, you too.  You are not exempt.  Check out this link.

                                        It's more than just a lump.

I will continue my updates but they will be less often, probably once a month unless something comes up to discuss.

I am open to talk any time anyone wants.  You can contact me via Facebook, phone, text or email.

Enjoy the end of Winter and welcome Spring.  Bring on the warmer weather and sunshine!