Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => Other Health Discussion => Topic started by: Gnatty on November 29, 2023, 08:21:26 PM
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I was wondering and hoping that someone might have some news on how Nas is doing? She usually keeps us informed and I feel a bit concerned we haven't heard anything since her operation.
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Me too. When I saw your post I was hoping it was an update.
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I would think that she is knackered!
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She was responding to posts on a couple of threads yesterday and was active today but I'm not sure when her op was?
Taz x
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I could be wrong but i think her op was Friday
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Hi Gnatty /everyone :)
The op was indeed Friday. It went well thankfully.
A bit of post operative fever, so they’ve kept me in an additional couple of days. I’m hoping to come out today or tomorrow at the VERY latest, as I’m EXHAUSTED from lack of sleep 😴 Hospitals are busy busy 24/7!
The histology results will take 3/4 weeks to come through. I don’t hold much hope for a good result, primarily because the cells in my lung contain breast cancer cells. This is obviously a huge worry for me.
The idea is to have another chest scan soon and probably get the fluid drained, before it starts to cause respiratory issues.
Then further scans to check the rest of my body. Maybe anti hormone therapy to try to zap the bad cells.
Having spent best part of a week at The Christie now, I’ve become part of a community of women who display strength and vulnerability simultaneously. It’s both uplifting and depressingly sad. I myself, thought I’d seen the back of my brush with cancer, 14 years ago >:(
So, that’s me. HRT has been poison for me, but surgeon is adamant I should have no regrets.
I will not be putting myself through any gruelling treatment again. Did that, bought the t shirt the last time! What ever will be, will be now.
Why are hospitals so hot 🥵??
Radiator on full blast, windows open! :o
Xx
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:medal:
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Sending big hugs Nas xx
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Morning. R U cross at yourself for using HRT? At that time U made the choice to use HRT with the knowledge that you had. Did the regime help at all? It isn't certain that it caused your current diagnosis, U may well have been facing similar without.
Try not to look back. Try to get the chest scan ASAP so that you an go into the New Year knowing as much as is possible now.
:foryou: gentle = :bighug:.
Hospitals are noisy and hot! Did U get the nighties sorted ;-). Hospitals are 24/7, I remember an Irish Sister clattering onto the Ward in the early hours in her day shoes >:(. No thought that we might like to sleep a bit longer, that perhaps slippers would have been more appropriate and it was she that would go round 'wakey wakey' knowing that none in that Ward were mobile enough to retaliate ::).
Make that list of concerns to talk to the Consultant with. xx
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Sending you an equally gentle hug Nas. I guessed the news prior to your hysterectomy may have been this. There's a lot going on physically and emotionally. Get that fever down, get home amongst those who love you best, and those bunnies. And when you are more able, if you want to, or need to, know that we can be here as and when, for rants, tears, support or swearing. It's for you to decide what is best for you at any given time.
😘 xx
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So good to hear from you Nas. Like everyone I was wondering how you were but didn't want to message until you were up to it. So sorry to hear about the cells in your lungs and that of course will be another hurdle for you. I hope you can get home this weekend and get some proper rest in your own bed. Sending hugs and good wishes galore! Xxxx
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Sending hugs and love and light Nas. I'm sorry about your lung. Hopefully they can zap the rogue cells and stop them in their tracks, its just one more thing you didnt need eh. But I'm sure they have a plan!
Hope you can get home to your son and bunnies soon and get some decent sleep too, pets are very comforting as is being in your home with your own stuff.
Stay strong and remember we're all here for you xx
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Sending you all the love in the world Nas xxxxx
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Morning Nas, it's good to hear from you. And I'm so pleased that the operation went well, that's already one of your hurdles overcome and dealt with. Hopefully your tummy cramps etc will now ease off once you get over the initial pain from the surgery.
I'm sorry you have more challenges ahead of you, we are all rooting for you every step of the way.
Fingers crossed you get home very soon, you'll be able to catch up on your sleep then and enjoy those bunnies xx
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I’m going home today!!
Sleep ( can’t wait)
Food ( can’t wait )
Rest ( can’t wait )
Sorry for the somber and somewhat negative post. Was feeling a little defeated earlier and am delirious with lack of sleep. 💤
One step at a time then… xx
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Thanks for letting us know how you are Nas but like everyone else, sorry to hear about the lung. Glad you are getting out of hospital today and yes, they are always hot and noisy places making it difficult to sleep.
Get plenty of rest and more importantly sleep when you get home! Best wishes and please keep us updated. xxx
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Feet up, keep hydrated. Don't worry initially if you keep to hospital hours ::) and don't worry if U decide to shut the door against visitors. I found that I was Ok for a few days then the effects of the GP caught up and I slept. Heavily.
Oh your own bed and bath ;-).
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Hello Nas
I am so pleased that your operation went well and I am keeping my fingers crossed for you for the future.
As soon as you are home you can begin to recover properly and I'm sure that will help you to feel better.
Wishing you well and sending hugs.
K.
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It really good to hear from you Nas - enjoy being at home and getting decent food and rest.
Hospitals are not restful places to be, they just aren't
Thanks for asking the question Gnatty 👍🏻
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Take one day at a time and rest rest when you get home. Take care and keep strong x
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I'm so sorry about your lung. Hopefully you'll feel a little better when you can rest in your own home. We are all rooting for you.
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The question is, what am I going to take, now that HRT is off limits?
Mood swings
Palpitations
Aches
Insomnia
All will be exacerbated by anti hormonal drugs :(
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Which anti-hormonal drug has been suggested?
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It must all seem overwhelming, especially having to come off hrt. Hopefully your doctor's may be able to advise you. As discogirl said maybe supplements are worth looking at, though they are a minefield of trial and error. All you can do is give yourself time to adjust and heal, as these are early days. Sometimes things will become clearer as you progress. Maybe menopausal symptoms won't be too problematic. We are all here to support you, and we all send our love x
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The question is, what am I going to take, now that HRT is off limits?
Mood swings
Palpitations
Aches
Insomnia
All will be exacerbated by anti hormonal drugs :(
Hmm. So you could try and alleviate specific symptoms with supplements? I think you'd need to be really careful with supplements designed for menopause like black cohosh for example as that has warnings about not using it for long periods as it can increase breast cancer risk. So while you need to address your symptoms, you need to avoid anything that could have an estrogenic effect. Do you have the funds / interest in seeing someone who works in functional medicine? Bit more qualified than a naturopath as can look at what anti-hrt medication you'll be on, what your illness profile is, and what you would be allowed to take / what would benefit you. I wouldn't even think to attempt this without supervision though x
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That's good advice Penguin. I remember buying some black cohosh a few years ago then got put off taking it when I read it could cause bleeding. Trial and error is not really advisable.
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That's good advice Penguin. I remember buying some black cohosh a few years ago then got put off taking it when I read it could cause bleeding. Trial and error is not really advisable.
I took it for a few months and it really mucked me up, sent my estrogen high (breasts permanently sore) and me a bit loopy tbh 🙈. I know there are defo natural adaptogen supplements for meno that help but I am sooooo wary of going down that route now and would not take anything that has a hormonal element.
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Nas, so glad you have the hysterectomy behind you & that you are home, away from the noise, heat & bustle of the ward. You have been much in my thoughts. I agree probably best not to take supplements while you're waiting for histology results & a treatment plan; at a BC presentation I attended a few years ago several supplements were mentioned as potentially harmful. If you have a nurse helpline or oncology contact number they may be best placed to advise in the short term. Sending a gentle hug & all good wishes.
Wx
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Hello Nas,
Happy to hear the hysterectomy went well and you are home. I hope you are not in too much discomfort from the op and getting little walks around the house if you can. Hoping your original pain with the fibroid has retreated now. What a rollercoaster and another tough endurance challenge for you around health. Thinking of you and sending you hugs.
Step by step with recovery first and then with the next stages for the scan, lung and plan.
With the symptoms (as HRT is off limits) if it helps at all, my own experience with having to come off HRT for endometrial cancer last year and researching until the cows come home for other alternatives to help with all manner of symptoms, some did eventually improve from the ones I had before the hysterectomy and from when I was trying to get the HRT right but others didn't and in the end I went for a very low dose of setraline. I was desperate to get some symptoms minimised at this point (although I was advised I hadn't reached a therapeutic dose of it so it might not help) but it did. Mainly helped with sleep (its still far from perfect but post op I was 2 hours a night) aches and anxiety that ramped up post op mainly to do with the tanking hormones but also probably a reaction to the cancer diagnosis and the knock on effect that brings. All the other things which I have tried over the last 3 or 4 years for meno/post meno symptoms have helped to a degree - stuff you already know I know, magnesium, diet, keeping a check on iron levels/Vit D - the usuals. Personally, I've steered away from lots of supplements and herbal things now. It's a work in progress and I will let you know if I find any other avenues that might help xx
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The other AD that is supposed to be good when hrt is ruled out is Venlafaxine. Different antidepressants suit different people though, so definitely worth discussing with your doctor xx
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Venlafaxine supposedly eases hot flushes?
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Thanks all.
It’s been a physical and emotional rollercoaster since I got home, I have to say.
I can’t get my head round the unfairness of it all. I did my stint in 2009, when my kids were only 5 and 18 months! Did what I needed to do and cracked on with life.
Now they are teens and doing well and the b*****d cells have gone bad AGAIN!! Why?
The last thing I asked before I left the hospital, was “ am I going to die”? Well we all are, aren’t we!!
My plan is to recover from this op, whilst watching for key symptoms; make a list and seek advice re: each one. The appointment with the oncologist should detail a plan to tackle this latest revelation. I think it involves taking anti hormonal tablets. So, best to start them, whilst seeking advice on supplements.
Vagifem and Ovestin are to be continued; I will not surrender those!
It’s going to be the aches, palpitations, moods and probably anxiety, which will kick in properly soon.
Tummy feels very out of sorts, also on antibiotics x 3 daily, to zap potential infection ( temp spikes whilst in hospital).
Fluid will be drained soon I’m told.
Do I feel hard done by today? Hell, yes!! >:(
Xx
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Of course! The Life you planned has disappeared, you need to grieve. With that comes rage, tears, disbelief; sadness, anger ..........
My Consultant insisted on lists of my worries to take to each appt..
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You have every right to feel hard done by! Life is flaming soul destroying sometimes and you have really been through some tough times and now facing this. You at least have a plan and I'm sure you are in good hands with the hospital. It's early days and everything is bound to feel a bit out of your hands.
You were hoping that with when the hysterectomy was completed that you would be able to start getting on with your life, but now other health problems have to be sorted. These are all really stressful things to deal with, so you have every right to feel as you do.
Just try and stay positive and take small steps to recovery. I hope that doesn't sound trite. Sending you love and hugs xxx
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To be fair Nas you have every right to be bloody raging. Yes it's unfair for you to go through it once but to be hit again along with ok the rest of the crap health wise you have every right to scream and rage. Please make sure you have an outlet for the times you need to cry and shout, or curl up and weep.
Can your hospital team help with setting you up with somewhere you can speak safely and honestly with a professional if you need it?
I very much agree with CLKD that You will be grieving for the life that has altered through no fault of your own.
You have a solid plan with your consultant and I know I warble on about this but be firm with your own notes and questions. Ask if someone you trust can go with you to hear the bits you may miss. Don't go out of that appt until you are satisfied they have covered everything you need to or referred you to someone who may better advise you.
Ask what their plans are for you, and then what you can do to support yourself safely with supplements - for each and every symptom that you expect to come back hormonal wise, the physical and the emotional/mental health.
Partner, I only realised myself these past few weeks that it's really actually ok to admit to yourself that life can be truly crap. So yes, bloody rage girl when you need to.
But also remember to be kind to yourself. Sending love and hugs, and I would send chocolate but I ate that. 😘 xx
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Life has dealt you such a cruel hand
:hug:
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Funeral planning to tomorrow. Music, venue etc.
I feel it’s got me.
Infiltrating through my body.
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What do you mean funeral planning? Please don't say that.
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Good idea to plan ahead - it's done then. It was after my Aunt's celebration years ago that I began to put my ideas together. Then I filed them away but can't remember where! I do know that no one is to wear black; music chosen - going out on bird song ;-).
Little steps. Half a day at a time.
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Ok. Can you see doing that tomorrow as just one of your plans? To have those decisions for yourself, see it as a form of being in control whilst other things are in someone else's hands. And maybe when you feel up to it see what the consultant appt brings?
I can't tell you I understand how you feel Nas because I dont. No one can, your feelings are yours and yours alone.
Do you have people with you right now to talk to or hold you if you need that? X
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What SarahT says is so true. I can't pretend I know what you are going through. I just wish I could be more help because the time you took to talk to me these last few months were so valuable and kind, I can't tell you how good it was to have your support. Stay strong Nas x
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Okay, had shower.
Compression stockings on ( I challenge ANY man to rip these passion killers off, in less than an hour! ;D)
Partner, you are right, some control does need to be had.
I am however, tired and hormonal, which isn’t helping my cabbaged brain!
My notebook and pen are at the ready..
Suzy, don’t feel bad. We all deal with different types and levels of shiteness in life, yes? I will be in touch in the next couple of days, to see how things are x
Take care all x
Pretty cold 🥶 I’m glad of the passion killer compression stockings I think! X
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Hi Nas,
Sending so much love to you xxx
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Thanks disco ❤️
How are you ? X
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Hope you are feeling better today Nas. I'm sorry you have been feeling low but not at all surprised, you would have to be a saint not to be very angry and saying "why me?".
You will be at your absolute lowest now. You are post op, in recovery and then there's the lung issue and the time of year which is not my favourite time of year and I imagine many others feel the same way.
Once you have recovered from the operation, you are mobile again and you have spoken to specialists and have a way forward, I think you will feel better.
By the way, thanks for spending time helping others on here when you are not at your best yourself. I really admire you for that.
Xxx.
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Hi Mary,
Yes, today has been a funny old day for sure.
You are right, I am probably at my ultimate lowest and it is not great.
The head is firmly in the sand, particularly as I have just received my letter, confirming the converstation I had with the gynae, prior to surgery. It is fair to say, that I have no idea how to handle this rollercoaster of emotions, no idea at all.
My letter tray is filling up with letters of doom and gloom :(
The time of year isn't helping one bit, not at all and all this Christmas stuff is driving me insane too.
Today I had hoped to get to Sainsbury with my partner, for a change of scenery. But the heavy duty antibiotics which the hospital sent me home with, have put a stop to that! Rang the GP and she said, as I have already done 5 full days, she is happy for me to stop. Hopefully I won't be running to the toilet every 5 minutes soon!
Spoke to DD last night. She is home from Uni in a couple of weeks and wants to go to the Christmas markets in Liverpool.
Best go and do some jobs.
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Some Hospitals provide a cancer support nurse for 24/7 advice.
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Some Hospitals provide a cancer support nurse for 24/7 advice.
They do.
Off to watch Fawlty Towers now (once the bunnies are sorted!)
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Sending you lots of love, thinking of you. X
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Thanks disco ❤️
How are you ? X
Not too bad sweetheart still waiting biopsy results stopped bleeding thank goodness and still off hrt for the minute.
Sending you every good wish possible xxx
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Glad the bleeding has stopped..phew!
Those biopsy results shouldn't take too long now.
There is ALWAYS a plan, come what may :foryou:
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Thank you so much.
:thankyou:
Im still sending those positive vibes out to you xxxxxx
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Nas,
Happy to hear the surgery went well and you're at home. A lot has changed since your cancer treatment 14 years ago and there are many non-hormonal options to deal with vasomotor symptoms, including the new neurokinin-3 receptor (NK3R) antagonists. You have an excellent team of doctors and you're in good hands. It sounds like you're experiencing some post-op depression. You've had a traumatic experience. Give your mind and body time to heal. Try not to worry about Christmas. Perhaps this year can be different and you don't have to be the one to orchestrate it. Let others help you. One step at a time.
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Thank you Ana21,
The nights are the worst, my brain goes into overdrive. The what ifs kick in and that’s it….
Trying so hard to separate each challenge, but it’s tough.
Christmas isn’t even in my thoughts. Work isn’t in my thoughts. Getting through the day is my priority.
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Morning. Of course that's your priority. Do those thoughts keep you awake, have U tried jotting them onto paper kept by the bed?
You've had a big surgical intervention and need to rest, to allow yourself to recover from some of the shock. It is early days.
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Take things steady, Nas. Thinking of you xx
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Hello Nas.
I just wanted to add my good wishes and I hope you feel better soon.
Take care and sending hugs.
K.
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Also sending you all the best Nas. Take care xx
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Slow steps Nas, your head will be full of everything, that's natural. Why shouldn't you feel these things?
Look at your own advice you have given on another post, it's ok to be not ok. Why can we often give caring true advice to others but not use it on ourselves? Partner, I'm not being trite, what's happening is huge. Good advice there to write it all down on paper and it may let some of the thoughts to away for a bit.
These are not 'normal' times for you in any way. Speak to your family about Christmas and ask if it's ok to simplify things as the stress of organising is too much right now. Make it smaller maybe, but still special, you are not recovered physically get let alone emotionally.
X
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When I'd given advice over the phone DH would call 'Pity that you don't take your own advice!' ::)
Could your Festive few days be spread over 2-3 days ....... as well as explaining that sometimes you may need to retire for some rest. Have that bed ready with a warm quilt and the bunnies ;-)
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Bunnies in the bed? Nibbling your toes? ;D No need for a hot water bottle.
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Love my bunnies Sheila :)
I draw the line at bed bunnies though..!
Off to the Christie shortly, tummy in knots, no toilets on the way!!
Bloods then seeing a doctor to ( hopefully) discuss fluid drainage.
Breathe… it’s going to be okay 👍
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Thinking of you Nas.
Taz x
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I echo Taz, we are all thinking of you x
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Bigs hugs Nas hope all goes well xxxxx
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We’re all with you in spirit, Nas. xxx
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Wishing you lots of love and hope all goes well. Thinking of you xxx
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:bighug:
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Not a good day ☹️
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You want to talk? or gather yourself together in the safety and warmth of your home. This is about you Nas, take the time for you. We will be here when you feel the need to talk, but for now you Should do what is right for you at any time. Xx
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Nas - I've not posted on your thread previously but have been following your posts.
Do whatever you want to feel good. All I can do is send lots of hugs your way :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Take good care of yourself Nas and try and gather your strength. Sending lots of love x
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Lots of love Nas. x
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I'm very sorry to hear that yesterday was not a good day Nas.
Please remember we are here for you if and when you feel like talking about it.
With very best wishes xxx
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I'm so sorry it wasn't good. Hug a bunny to feel a bit better? 🐰 Sometimes I envy their ability to live in the present and not worry about the future.
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Yes the buns are a good source of therapy, that is for sure.
I want to motivate myself to shower and get dressed, but I can’t, I’m too upset. All I am doing is crying!
I don’t know how to manage this recent revelation, or my emotions which go with it. Brain is going into overdrive and the ability to think and live in the present, has gone!
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Could you contact the support Nurse to share your worries with?
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I second what CLKD had said. Or could you call one if the main helplines, Macmillan perhaps? Sometimes it helps stop the brain going round in loops to say it aloud and talk it through with another person, even if they can't advise or fix it and even if you end up repeating yourself.
When is your next appointment? It sounds like you need to talk to someone before then x
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I can only echo the above Nas. Was anyone with you at you appt who may have been able to absorb more info at the time and know of a professional to contact to speak with? This is too big for you to take in alone. If you are unable to seek the into yourself, can someone in the home with you who can find the details for you?
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Nas, thinking of you today, just wanted you to know that. Did you find someone to call and talk things through? X
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Nas - As Penguin said yesterday, contacting the Macmillan helpline is a really good idea to talk things through.
My OH has bowel cancer and they were ever so helpful when he was deciding whether or not to have chemo in the beginning. They were always available whereas his support nurse could only be contacted by leaving a message. Yes she (or one of her colleagues) would get in touch, eventually but there was generally a wait.
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Just adding my good thoughts to you as everyone is on here. Love to you x
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Thanks everyone.
A nurse phoned yesterday from the Christie, asking how I was generally. My prompt response was “ rubbish”! I then proceeded to bawl down the phone for ages.
The shock has been overwhelming to say the least. The uncertainty regarding the future etc, excruciating.
Wednesday I have a CT to determine what exactly is in the lung, but they and I know.
Oral treatment in 2 weeks ( can’t wait!! )
Nothing more to say really…
Xx
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Thanks everyone.
A nurse phoned yesterday from the Christie, asking how I was generally. My prompt response was “ rubbish”! I then proceeded to bawl down the phone for ages.
The shock has been overwhelming to say the least. The uncertainty regarding the future etc, excruciating.
Wednesday I have a CT to determine what exactly is in the lung, but they and I know.
Oral treatment in 2 weeks ( can’t wait!! )
Nothing more to say really…
Xx
Don't give up hope Nas. Just become something is in your lung doesn't mean it's any less treatable than what was in your uterus. Surely the fact they have found it before it causes symptoms will make a difference? They are offering treatment, hang on to that. Nobody is saying nothing can be done. You may well be eligible for trials. Immunotherapy is great these days, it can work wonders. This is the beginning of a journey, not the end. I know you probably can't see it like that, I probably wouldn't either as I'd be terrified too. Uncertainty is awful. But there has been a plan and there will be a revised plan, and these people know what they are doing!!
Also to add, my cousin in Australia back in 2000 had something in his lung. Diagnosed accidentally when he fell off a chair and thought he'd broken a rib but scan showed that instead. He had about a third of one lung removed, carried on smoking (now that I don't advise 😱), but he is still here and it never came back. It happens. You are a person not a statistic, remember that!!! Big hugs, I get this is hard xxx
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Penguin, Thankyou SO much for that message. I can actually feel the positivity rise through my body. I’m going to print it off and carry it around with me!
You are right, there is always a plan, always. That’s what the oncologists said. There are other drugs to try, just sitting waiting to be prescribed, already developed.
I have to change my mind set quickly, but I am scared of the scan. Scared of hearing it face to face. Somehow I’m not scared of whatever was in my womb, probably because it’s gone! That will be another set of news for another day.
For now, faith and trust must be put into the medical profession. As you say, they know what they are doing, they are dealing with it every day of the week.
I’m not a smoker penguin, but right now, I could be tempted to smoke “something “ if you get me? :hug: :thankyou:
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Hey Partner,
I've little to say as Penguin have have some beautiful advice and encouragement. As well as carrying a printed copy of her reply, maybe we can all actually have Penguin in our pockets for when we need her words?!
At least Christies followed you up and you had that opportunity to cry with someone who can understand your fears, pain and in some ways grief. As Penguin said, they have plans, but you are yet to recover from one major surgery and facing a far different future than was expected. In no way can I advise you how to feel or act, you will be all over the place Nas. After the scan, you will know more of what to face and importantly how it will be tackled. I would be bloody terrified but once I know a full diagnosis it helps me a tiny bit to know what I am facing.
You seem to be a bit hard on yourself, why on earth should you not feel shocked and scared? Put the Penguin in your pocket, breathe and be kinder to yourself. Xx
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Yes terrified of what may be to come. What my future holds and how it all may end… absolutely bloody terrified.
Now I must hold on to the fact that Christie’s are dealing with this day in, day out. Plans are in place and then more plans.
Scared witless of that scan on Wednesday, petrified at what it’s going to reveal.
It’s so weird as all the time my body was changing, there was me, none the wiser! I was just getting on with my life, completely unaware.
As penguin said, this is the start of a journey, not the end and I must embrace it head on.
Xx
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Nas I know the scan is scary but that will give a better idea of what is going on. Christies are probably the best in the UK to have on your side just now, they really know what they're talking about. They will know exactly what treatment will be best for you :hug:
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You are right limpy, very right!
They will know how to mange it all and advise of a route forward.
The anti hormonal drugs have already been explained to me and I will collect those on 21st December. It’s called targeted therapy.
Once Wednesdays scan is done, I will know exactly what I’m
going to be dealing with. Just got to be brave and do it.
Xx
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Nas right now I don't know of anyone braver than you. You have already faced so much and with more to come. But by all the accounts here Christies seem to be the right team to have working for you and with you. do make sure some one is with you on Wednesday if you can, for practical reasons and the important hand holding x
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Hi Nas,
I will be thinking of you on Wednesday xxx
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Hi Nas,
I will be thinking of you on Wednesday xxx
Thanks disco
I’m glad your biopsy results were clear, that is a relief I’m sure? Xx
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Nas right now I don't know of anyone braver than you. You have already faced so much and with more to come. But by all the accounts here Christies seem to be the right team to have working for you and with you. do make sure some one is with you on Wednesday if you can, for practical reasons and the important hand holding x
Thanks partner,
What a rollercoaster eh??
Well, it’s gotta be done. No point going through the endless “ what ifs”
Yes Christie’s may well be the best in Europe; i feel fortunate we are within an hours drive.
I prefer to attend these scans etc alone ( weird I know) but I always have done. Then I don’t need to worry about the other persons facial expressions etc.
Here we go then…. Xxx
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It's so much for you to cope with, your cancer years ago, your recent operation, which is obviously major in itself, and now more problems. Of course you are scared, the uncertainty must be horrendous. Wednesday is another hurdle and another step on the road to recovery. It's the waiting that must be so difficult. Thinking of you and sending love as always xx
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It's so much for you to cope with, your cancer years ago, your recent operation, which is obviously major in itself, and now more problems. Of course you are scared, the uncertainty must be horrendous. Wednesday is another hurdle and another step on the road to recovery. It's the waiting that must be so difficult. Thinking of you and sending love as always xx
Here’s the thing Suzy, yes the b*****d disease is back, but I will do EVERYTHING in my physical and mental power, to prolong my life for as long as I can. I may not succeed, but at least I will have given it a good shot!
Today I’m well, alive and have drugs to take to target this crap.
So, let’s put that scythe away ( thing is gone!) and tackle the new beast with the drugs and and the will to keep it in one blooming place! Dare it try and wander, just dare it! Xxxxx
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Ooh I can hear playground change of Fight! Fight! Fight! In my head. Good on you partner, today sounds like a good positive Nas, it's still that bloody rollercoaster and the brakes are sticking at times, but you've seen off the Thing and now it's onto the Beast. Blimey Nas it's good to hear fighting talk, which is just part of the myriad of emotions that you are going through, as best as we can we're all behind you. Xx
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Hi Nas,
I will be thinking of you on Wednesday xxx
Thanks disco
I’m glad your biopsy results were clear, that is a relief I’m sure? Xx
Hi Nas
Yes it is. Still off the hrt.
The Christie sounds like a brilliant hospital and you're getting good care there.
Sending you all my love and thinking of you xxx
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So glad to hear you are more positive about it, it's good to hear in you! X
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Ooh I can hear playground change of Fight! Fight! Fight! In my head. Good on you partner, today sounds like a good positive Nas, it's still that bloody rollercoaster and the brakes are sticking at times, but you've seen off the Thing and now it's onto the Beast. Blimey Nas it's good to hear fighting talk, which is just part of the myriad of emotions that you are going through, as best as we can we're all behind you. Xx
Partner, I feel we are part of that Clash of the Titans film.. you know the one where there are all these beasts and swords??
Yes Thing is gone, but Beast must be tackled head on!!
Partner I know you are in pain with fibromyalgia and wish I had a wand to magic it away. What are the medics suggesting? Xxx
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So glad to hear you are more positive about it, it's good to hear in you! X
Me hitting the BEAST!!
:beat: :foryou: :thankyou:
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Nas, I know you must be dreading the scan but at least you will know what you are up against.
I know you have heard it all before but there really are better and more effective cancer drugs available now. Immunotherapy has been a major breakthrough and the couple in Germany who invented the Pfizer covid vaccine are on to something really good.
One day, it will be possible to put cancer into reverse and I think it's getting close. That's the big one that the entire world is waiting for because every one of us lives under the cloud of cancer and any one of us could be next.
If you can face it, why not ask to speak to researchers at the Christie? They are involved with all the latest developments.
Good luck for Wednesday Nas and keep posting.
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Nas, I know you must be dreading the scan but at least you will know what you are up against.
I know you have heard it all before but there really are better and more effective cancer drugs available now. Immunotherapy has been a major breakthrough and the couple in Germany who invented the Pfizer covid vaccine are on to something really good.
One day, it will be possible to put cancer into reverse and I think it's getting close. That's the big one that the entire world is waiting for because every one of us lives under the cloud of cancer and any one of us could be next.
If you can face it, why not ask to speak to researchers at the Christie? They are involved with all the latest developments.
Good luck for Wednesday Nas and keep posting.
Thankyou Mary
Another lovely post of positivity.
At the moment, Christie is hell for me. I enter through the door, hold my nose, scan for my department, rush through the corridor and hold my breath until they call me! I must look crazy!!
As you say, once I have had this scan and I’m know what I’m facing, I’m hoping it will become easier and I may even converse with the relevant bodies.
3 monthly body scans is very reassuring. Also knowing I am
chucking drugs at it each and every day, in between, gives me hope.
Will keep you all updated.
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Hello again Nas.
I can't improve on the messages that you have a already had but I want to send you best wishes for Wednesday. I will be thinking of you.
Take care and sending hugs.
K.
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Hello again Nas.
I can't improve on the messages that you have a already had but I want to send you best wishes for Wednesday. I will be thinking of you.
Take care and sending hugs.
K.
Thankyou Kathleen x
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Hiya Nas ( or Jason of the Argonauts- he defeated all the baddies as well), the rising skeletons bit still scares me...
Thanks for asking, I am on the way path of seeking pain relief next, then all well next year, looking at physio and further nutrition advice from the clinic to ensure I exercise safely and don't do too much and make it worse. Bit housebound at times which sucks, but keep plodding on...
I Think a range of Go Nas T-Shirts should be made available, we are all so with you as much as we can be. You've got the best team available with you and as others say there are always new options out there. But as much as you feel able ask all the that you want to know. I get you going to these things alone. I go in appts alone so so can concentrate on my sole reactions, but I like my man waiting outside for the post discussions. All this has to be what you need at every single step. Xx
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Nas, you have probably already heard about this but here's an interesting article about that brilliant couple:
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/science/german-pfizer-laura-kuenssberg-germany-mainz-b1032986.html
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Yes Mary, it is articles like this, which offer one hope.
Just got to keep remembering that there are plenty of drugs to try, should one set not work well.
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Hi Nas, have only just caught up with this thread & just want to send very best wishes for Weds & beyond. :hug:
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Thanks Wren,
Think i somehow already know the outcome of Wednesday. Another blow to my already battered brain and body no doubt!
Oh well, thank goodness for chocolate 🍫 and biscuits!! 🍪
X
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Thinking of you. Wishing you the best on Wednesday and the journey ahead.
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Thanks Ana21 x
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Adding all my good thoughts and wishes, love and everything I can for you tomorrow. Keep us posted when you feel ready xx
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Hello Nas, I just wanted to say I will be thinking of you tomorrow. x
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Adding all my good thoughts and wishes, love and everything I can for you tomorrow. Keep us posted when you feel ready xx
Thankyou suzy, that is very kind of you x
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Hello Nas, I just wanted to say I will be thinking of you tomorrow. x
Thank you Lynda x
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Me too Nas, will be thinking of you and wish we could all give you a massive hug. X
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Adding my love and best wishes xx
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Thanks all
One foot in front the other..(and an M&S doughnut for afterwards!)
xx
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I'll be thinking of you tomorrow Nas xx
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I'll be thinking of you too Nas. What flavour doughnut?
Taz x :)
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Thinking of you for tomorrow Nas. Remember, there's a plan, there's always a plan, don't lose sight of that x
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I'll be thinking of you too Nas. What flavour doughnut?
Taz x :)
Well Taz, I’m partial to a good old strawberry doughnut. Failing that, custard!!
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Thinking of you for tomorrow Nas. Remember, there's a plan, there's always a plan, don't lose sight of that x
Dear Penguin
Once again, those uplifting words which arrive just at the right time! Thankyou x
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Hope tomorrow goes as well as it possibly can Nas.
Remember this will mean that the beast can be properly identified and a plan created to fully deal with it.
:hug: :hug: :hug:
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I'll be thinking of you too Nas. What flavour doughnut?
Taz x :)
Well Taz, I’m partial to a good old strawberry doughnut. Failing that, custard!!
Good choice Nas!
Taz x
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Hi Nas, I've been wondering how you are, I didn't like to ask on the forum and only just found this thread. I hope you get a workable treatment plan that you feel you can cope with and you're right, it feels like life is just a battle at times.
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Thinking of you today Nas xxx
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Everything crossed for a positive outcome :hug:
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Good luck at the appointment Nas. Sending hugs.x
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Survived the ordeal!
Chest, abdomen and pelvis scanned. Best say a prayer now I suppose!
Well, other than news of the beast, don’t feel too bad. 3 weeks post hysterectomy tomorrow and getting stronger by the day. Obviously if they ring and tell me the beast has gone awol, they will have to scrape me off the ceiling!
What a strange situation to be in. It’s like I’m waiting for something, but not sure what!
😊🍫🍫🍫🍪🍪x
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Hey You,
Am sure we are all relieved to hear from you. No doubt You were still digesting the M&S doughnuts. You must be exhausted both physically and emotionally. Is there any part of your body unscanned now?
Please give yourself some time to rest up, again, mentally too. When the Christie need to speak with you they will. Easy to say, but try to take some down time to recover from a hell of a month.
Sending hugs an virtual doughnuts. Custard for me. Xx
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Thanks partner
I went into the scanner room, clutching my bag of doughnuts 🍩 !! The radiologist muttered something like “ erm just leave them on the side, else we may have an unidentified object in the image” 😂
Yes when they want me, they will
call. It would be nice to know that the beast is staying put, but obviously no guarantees at all.
I like Jam and custard equally.
Hope you are doing okay partner and the journey you are on, isn’t too rough? Xxx
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Jeez hope you counted the doughnuts before you left. Love the NHS staff but they are known to grab any ones food at anytime!
Yeah, thanks partner. I have strangely relaxed into the fibromyalgia probable diagnosis. Everything seems to make sense now. And that is a relief in itself. Not spare energy for negative thoughts as they weigh me down, so adapting my lifestyle, tweaking my nutrition and hope for some graduated physio in the new year so I can exercise safely without making things worse. I so miss walking, it was my safety valve. But hope I can get back some semblance of my old self. And my missing libido, so nagging gp soon for testosterone.
What a sodding year.
Still standing ( just) has been my motto for this year. 😍
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Glad you're feeling a bit better. Did they tell you how long you have to wait for the results?
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Thursday next week Sheila.
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I'm glad it went OK Nas (and you managed to get your doughnuts!) but sorry you have to wait for results once again. At least Thursday is not too far off and you will finally know exactly how to proceed re treatment. Hopefully they will have the results from the histology following the hysterectomy too.
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Hi Nas. At least that's another appointment out of the way and a step further to getting your life back. Onwards to next Thursday for you and hope for positive news, and more doughnuts. Thanks so much for your recent message to me, especially with your own problems. It really means a lot to me xx
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Hi Nas. At least that's another appointment out of the way and a step further to getting your life back. Onwards to next Thursday for you and hope for positive news, and more doughnuts. Thanks so much for your recent message to me, especially with your own problems. It really means a lot to me xx
Suzy, you are worth messaging and keeping in touch with 😊
We will plough on through and be fine x
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Hey Nas,
Thinking of you tomorrow, remember Penguin- there's always a plan. Don't forget your pocket money for the doughnuts. We're all with you as best we can x
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Thanks partner..
Ive already bought the doughnuts and will be clutching them in the “room”.
Feeling weirdly at peace, after a week of turmoil. Probably because I know what’s coming.
Life will never be the same again. But i will be adding life to my years, rather than vice versa
Love to you all x🎄🌸🌲
Oh and I do intend to fight the beast within me, oh yes!!!!!
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Sending hugs for tomorrow Nas xx
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Hello Nas and I will be thinking of you with all my heart tomorrow. Let us know how things are, when the time is right for you. It's good to hear your positivity! Sending hugs and good thoughts xx
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Yeah I think the Beast within may have made a mistake with you.... know your enemy then give the bastard everything you've got. Sounding good tonight Nas, so many good thoughts being sent to carry with you. X
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Absolutely partner!
The “ thing” thought it had me, so it sends the “ beast”’
Grave mistake!!! I have the best team fighting my corner. And well, I also have “ alternative” resources on the back burner :beat: :beat: :beat:
Will report back soon x
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Thinking of you tomorrow Nas, look forward to hearing the plan for beating the beast! Stay hopeful, you've got so many people who have your back, a whole team of them, all of whom have decades of experience between them and a whole wealth of new research, treatments, trials at their fingertips as well as alternative options to explore! There won't just be one plan, there'll be multiple!!! In the meantime, love and light from me. ❤️ Penguin x
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Sending you virtual hugs for tomorrow Nas x
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Good luck Nas. My son's girlfriend came to this country and worked as a surgeon at the Christie hospital. You're in the best place with some of the best doctors 👍.
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All the very best, Nas - thinking of you. xxx
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Thinking of you, Nas 💖
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I'm thinking of you Nas ❤ my thoughts have been with you every day xxx
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Thinking of you Nas. xx
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Hello Nas.
Wishing you well and sending hugs and warm thoughts.
Take care.
K.
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UPDATE
Right, so here we go.
The histology showed that the THING was a sarcoma, not a fibroid. Very rare, but that’s what it was. A full hysterectomy sorted that. No further treatment required. Left any longer, I would have been in bigger trouble!
CT scan results
Spine clear
Bones clear
Brain clear.
Still can’t detect a lung growth on the scan, just the fluid and breast cancer cells.
A spot of breast cancer cells picked also picked up in the abdomen during the histology.
The plan is for the drugs to zap the hotspots. Three monthly scans to check progress.
So there we are. Two unrelated cancers having a good stab at me it seems. Quite unbelievable. Sarcoma?? WTAF!! 😱😱 It could have killed me!
Xx
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It could. I know someone who had a sarcoma in her kidneys. Have you had breast cancer previously? But the rest is good news? Is that better than you expected?
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Yes Jules, breast cancer 14 years ago. Two cancers, unrelated. How does one get their head round that?
My fear was a lesion in my spine.
I need to be able to tolerate these drugs.
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Yes Jules, breast cancer 14 years ago. Two cancers, unrelated. How does one get their head round that?
My fear was a lesion in my spine.
I need to be able to tolerate these drugs.
That's tough, I really can't imagine it though cancer is everyone's fear. Has the hospital offered you any emotional support? One good thing is that the sarcoma was dealt with. Try to take some time doing pampering things, it will restock your reserves and you'll cope with the treatment and recover better
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Did you ever watch One Foot in the Grave, Jules? Victor Meldrew? “ I dont believe it!”
That’s me right now.
I am not a fan of the emotional
support package. Largely because the person offering the support, will 9/10, have little actual understanding of what will be running through my brain.
I take courage from seeing and speaking to those whom I
encounter at The Christie. The sheer determination of these people, determined to navigate their way through the work of the devil; it is both inspiring and humbling.
True, cancer is everyone’s fear, but fortunately not everyone’s reality.
Tonight, I’m having a stiff whisky or 4 ! 🥃🥃
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Blimey Nas, if you do something you do it to the max don't you?
I know of sarcoma my husband having cancer this year, so if course I Googled everything relative to him or not. As you do. Your results today must have been shocking for you. Thankfully you persisted in getting full investigations as you knew something was seriously wrong.
Let's hope your body cooperates to tolerate the necessary drugs to eliminate the cancerous cells.
I suspect you must feel yet again, relieved, scared and bloody exhausted physically and emotionally. Rollercoaster doesn't even cover the last few months for you. Can you have some time for a breather, to kind of regroup until the next phase begins?
Take care Nas,
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Goodness Nas, what a journey! Now you can look forward with positivity, and try not to be so greedy in the future, one cancer is enough let alone two types to deal with :o
Enjoy that drink :)
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I'm sure that's what you're thinking. It is unbelievable. My friend had support in the form of pampering treatments that she could access at hospital. She found that helpful because it was time for her, soothing etc and free. Were they fairly positive about the zapping drugs? I wish I could say something to relieve the worry and anxiety of it all. I find one day or even one hour at a time is manageable when things are overwhelming.
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Hi Nas
goodness what a journey you've had!!! Your one tough cookie.
Im pleased bones spine and brain are clear.
so glad the hysterectomy got all the sarcoma. Just goes to show how diligent we have to be with abnormal bleeding.
And it sounds as if the drugs will target those breast cancer cells.
Enjoy those whiskys!!!
Sending lots of love ❤
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Hi to you Nas and what an array of stuff for you to get your head round there! It must have been a shocker to find out about the sarcoma, and it's rare to boot! Thank goodness it has been sorted. And hopefully the drugs will target and eliminate the other cells.I hope you feel some relief that you have some answers now. A major operation behind you, still recovering from that obviously, but you know that beast has gone. Now to get through more treatment which WILL be successful.
Time now to recoup and be extra kind to yourself. Take care and lots of love xxx
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Wow Nas, what a journey! It sounds like better news than you thought you'd be getting, if I am understanding correctly?
Are the BC cells related to your previous bout of BC then? And floating around not attached to anything so can be zapped / mopped up???
Great they couldn't find anything on your lungs.
Wow a lot to take in, you deserve your drink tonight! And big hugs to you, you are so strong and amazing to get through today and I'm sure you'll do the same with any treatment too. When does it all start?
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Yes Jules, breast cancer 14 years ago. Two cancers, unrelated. How does one get their head round that?
My fear was a lesion in my spine.
I need to be able to tolerate these drugs.
You will Nas! And there'll be things to help you with side effects to tolerate them better. And alternative things you can add in to support your body too. Message me if you want any help thinking through alternative options to add in (obvs with discussion/ agreement from your oncologist too). I'm happy to add any research I can do into the mix x
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It looks as though you'll beat it twice, that's some record :). Very good news the thing hasn't multiplied and well done for persevering with the doctors to get it removed in time. I'm sure you'll find drugs you can tolerate and you'll be monitored closely so any further problems will be picked up in time. I was afraid the news would be worse, I'm so glad it isn't.
If counselling isn't for you would a patient support group be a better option? They'll be going through the same emotions as you so will understand.
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Thanks for the update Nas, I imagine that anxiety about today aside, you must be hugely relieved with those scans results.
Great news that the hysterectomy has completely dealt with the scarcoma with a good prognosis. As you say, the drugs will deal with the breast cancer cells in the lung so you have a very good treatment plan.
I hope you are feeling better now and more positive but it just have been a worry.
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Wow Nas, what a journey! It sounds like better news than you thought you'd be getting, if I am understanding correctly?
Are the BC cells related to your previous bout of BC then? And floating around not attached to anything so can be zapped / mopped up???
Great they couldn't find anything on your lungs.
Wow a lot to take in, you deserve your drink tonight! And big hugs to you, you are so strong and amazing to get through today and I'm sure you'll do the same with any treatment too. When does it all start?
Hey positive Penguin,
How’s it going?
Yes these pesky cells are breast cancer cells, oestrogen fed ( unfortunately) If they are going to return, it’s mainly the lung, brain, spine and bones and certainly not the abdominal wall! As the lovely breast care nurse said, cancer moves in devious ways!
My drugs have arrived today; one lot targeting the beast and the other lot blocking any oestrogen I may produce. Think Pac-Man!!
I think I will start on January 1st, as can’t face any grim side effects over Christmas, when I’m still trying to gather physical strength following the hysterectomy.
I’m hoping these cells are floating, it’s hard to know. The scan didn’t pick up a tumour but they feel sure something is there. So, if tiny and its food supply cut dead, maybe the drugs will kill it. I will only know that ( probably) after the next scan in March.
What we don’t want of course, is for the cells to multiply or move to a different organ or body part.
Anyway, let’s stay positive. I have my drugs ( and my doughnuts) so I’m ready !!
Partner Sarah, how is your husband? Is he well? And Jules, your friend?
Sarcoma.. wow.. that’s a devious one alright! Taking precisely one year to cause problems. Glad that’s gone! :beat:
Mary, although now in the midst all this health chaos, I do feel weirdly positive. I was much more composed this time round. Listening and note taking and understanding what was being said. Asking coherent questions instead of one question over and over ( which I won’t post on here!).
Sheila, patient support would be excellent and I did ask about that. There is a big Maggies centre in Manchester, which I may investigate some time.
Ayesha, I will TRY not to be so greedy in future. Ironically I am
not a greedy person by nature; just when it comes to the bad stuff! 🙈🙈😱
Finally, I just wanted to say :thankyou: for all your kind words and messages of support and good luck, they have been an absolute lifesaver in truth.
Wishing you all good health and peace, wherever you are on your journey and I will of course keep
you updated on my own journey, via this thread.
Xx :foryou:
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Hi Nas and it's so good to hear you sound so positive. Sounds like a good idea to wait to take the drugs till new year Have a great Christmas and glad you have had all this support and that it has helped. Keep us up to date with your progress xxx
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Hi Nas!
Thanks for the update. Great to hear the surgery took care of the sarcoma! Excellent news. Sounds like you have a wonderful medical team.
It's good to hear you sounding strong and positive.
Wishing you a happy holiday and all the best in the battle ahead.
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Thanks Suzy and Ana
The waters may be turbulent at times, but I myself and my team are ready! X
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Nas, so pleased to hear the good news that the hysterectomy has dealt with the sarcoma with no further treatment required for that. So good too that spine, bones & brain are clear & no growth has been found in the lung. Your expert team are on the case & it sounds as though you couldn't be in better hands. The way you've dealt with all this has been simply amazing :medal:. Big hug to you & I hope you're having something of a well deserved break over Christmas.
Wx
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Hi Nas
Good you've been able to delay the start of the drugs until new year ❤️
And positive scans didn't pick up an actual tumour- logic, to me, dictates that it has to be bloody tiny to not be seen on the scans. And we all know that the earlier/ smaller things are when picked up, the better the chance of treating them effectively!
Hope you managed to have a good Christmas Day and a few drinks!!! X
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Hello Nas.
I am so pleased that everything is going well for you. I think postponing the drugs until the new year is a good idea as you will have time to rest and recuperate before you begin the treatment.
Am I correct in thinking that you will not be using systemic HRT in the future? I imagine that topical treatments for VA will be okay should you want them.
Wishing you well and please keep us updated.
Take care.
K.
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Hiya Nas,
So, New Year is the start of your plan, sounds like a wise choice indeed. Bit of time for yourself for a few days without the additional worry as tonic the drug treatments will be as kind to you as we hope. Wrensong was so right - you have been bloody amazing,and yet you still find the energy to reply to posts to offer advice and support to others. Top Girl in my eyes.
Roll on 2024, I'm all in for a positive and uplifting New Year. And I wish you the same and to all who are having a tough time. X
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Big hugs Nas xxxx
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Hi Nas
Good you've been able to delay the start of the drugs until new year ❤️
And positive scans didn't pick up an actual tumour- logic, to me, dictates that it has to be bloody tiny to not be seen on the scans. And we all know that the earlier/ smaller things are when picked up, the better the chance of treating them effectively!
Hope you managed to have a good Christmas Day and a few drinks!!! X
Penguin, I so so hope the beast is tiny and can be knocked on the head ( that is what i try to tell myself anyway!) I did indeed indulge in a Prosecco or 8 🤣 and feel pleased Christmas Day was enjoyable for my immediate family.
Wren, I don’t feel amazing and have had stern words with my body, basically asking what the heck is it playing at! Is it possessed? Or simply confused with good and bad?
Kathleen, you are bang on with your “ no HRT” thinking. I’ve had to bin it all. Never to enter my body again. Symptoms of intense itchy skin and mood swings have descended 🙈
On the upside, I will now know what I’m dealing with ( menopause wise).
Parter Sarah, are you ready for the next round? I feel we can abandon the sledgehammer now because reading up on the side effects, these drugs appear to have the ability to tackle the toughest disease cells known to man!
LTP, I sincerely hope you can access an effective type of therapy very soon. Sending strength and hugs back ❤️
Anyone else planning on watching Michael Palin in N Korea tonight? I’m intrigued! How has he even managed to access that country? Suppose he poses no threat…
Xx
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Just back from my gynae follow up. I will forever be grateful to that surgeon who performed my hysterectomy, as my ovaries and fallopian tubes were also covered in breast cancer cells!
That, along with the sarcoma, would have had a merry old time of things, trying to kill me off!
I’ve been referred to the sarcoma team, just to put closure on that episode, which is what drove me to the GP initially.
So, as one door closes, another opens, ready for the next challenge of keeping what is there, at bay.
P.s I watched Michael Palin in N Korea and realised he visited in 2018, not recently!
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Blimey Nas, it seems incredible what you have been through and how fortunate you were finally taken seriously.
So the main culprits hanging on to the breast cancer cells were scythed out and fully removed in time. And a referral to the sarcoma team which will ensure any lingering questions you have can be addressed.
How are you holding up partner? I imagine it can take some time to slow all the thoughts down, but we all do our baby steps I guess.
2024?? Im ready for you! 😁
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Just back from my gynae follow up. I will forever be grateful to that surgeon who performed my hysterectomy, as my ovaries and fallopian tubes were also covered in breast cancer cells!
That, along with the sarcoma, would have had a merry old time of things, trying to kill me off!
I’ve been referred to the sarcoma team, just to put closure on that episode, which is what drove me to the GP initially.
So, as one door closes, another opens, ready for the next challenge of keeping what is there, at bay.
P.s I watched Michael Palin in N Korea and realised he visited in 2018, not recently!
Omg Nas I am so glad they operated when.l they did and didn't delay things when they found the lung fluid. Blimey what a palava though, am I right in thinking breast cancer cells (particularly if hormome driven) are likely to respond well to the zapping? Your team are so fantastic, they're just on it now aren't they. How are you feeling after today? It must be so hard to process all this news that seems to be coming in thick and fast now after such a long bloody wait. I am SO glad you are in the system and about to start your treatment in a couple of days, what a journey hey. You're amazing I hope you know that eh x
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Hi penguin and partner Sarah,
Almost a sense of relief that all “news” is now up to date.
Fearful of future news, but no point in worrying about what hasn’t happened yet!
The team are truly amazing at the Christie. I had a question about the timing of a blood test, left a message and within the hour, had a call with a detailed answer.
I have access to all the professionals ( from consultants to nurse specialists) at my fingertips and from now on, no stone shall be left unturned.
It’s odd as I hated the place so much two weeks ago, but now, it feels safe and the outside world feels scary! That’s going to have to change obviously, but how, I don’t know.
Certainly don’t feel amazing Penguin, but in a better place mentally than immediately post op.
The journey continues …..
Xx
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Hi Nas and so good to hear of your progress. It's wonderful that you got the treatment you needed and well done for pursuing it when you knew something was wrong. It must have been a shock to learn about the cells on your ovaries and fallopian tubes. It's all going to take time to process, but as you say, having the team at Christie's to support you is wonderful. I am so pleased you are making progress and you ARE amazing! So good to hear your news xx
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That last sentence seems a bit wrong now I look! I meant it is good to hear that you are feeling positive and being well cared for by Christie's. X
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Sending you such big hugs Nas. Great to hear how positive you are. Sounds like you're in excellent hands. Wishing you all the best. xx
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Thanks Suzy and Dazedandconfused
Yes everything is sinking in now and slowly being processed.
I’ve got myself a notebook and have written all important contact details down. Also, a synopsis of what has been discussed at appointments etc.
Next challenge is on Monday, when i take my first lot of daily medication. Please let it be kind on the stomach, as I’ve only just got that sorted following the hysterectomy!
I’ve been thinking about work today and how I’m going to broach the subject. I’m a bit a worried they will try to get shot of me! The Head hasn’t contacted me once since I was signed off in mid November ( busy I suppose) Colleagues aren’t going to get it either. Even my aunt who has had BC herself over 20 years ago, can’t understand why it would come back in another part of the body other than the breast. Regular life will have to resume eventually, so I guess I will have to ride this one with you lovely ladies and what ever support I can find elsewhere 😊
Suzy, I will drop you a message this week ❤️
Xx
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Hi Nas
Good idea to keep a diary of important numbers and stuff.
Its a shame that the Head hasnt been in touch but I wouldnt even be thinking of work just yet.
They couldnt just get rid of you, if they did you'd definately have a case of unfair dismissal.
We are with you all the way Nas xxx
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Partner I think it's a good thing to feel safe at Christies, it shows a confidence in your team who are clearly working with you, and you actually feel included in all that is going on ( something our amazing NHS cannot always provide, as much as they would like, as they are stretched so far). I get that you now feel a bit nervy in the ' outside world' and that you need to find a half way balance- so use us! We all want to be able to support you and mad as we all are ( Well, I speak for myself there naturally) we will always be a sounding board. Heaven knows you've done that enough times for me and so many others.
In your trusty notebook do write a few lines ready to talk to your boss,don't let them brow beat you into something you are not ready for. If we feel weak, physically and emotionally it can be the worse time to try to stand up for yourself. Be prepared. If send them this way and let us have a go at them for you ;D
Take care partner x
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Thanks disco
I’ve got a permanent contract and have been there 5 years. I fear they will say my role is redundant! I don’t want to be seen as the “ sick “ one if you get me?
I don’t do social
media much and have posted zero on my Facebook page re my health.
Will see what happens I guess. How are you disco? X
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Thanks disco
I’ve got a permanent contract and have been there 5 years. I fear they will say my role is redundant! I don’t want to be seen as the “ sick “ one if you get me?
I don’t do social
media much and have posted zero on my Facebook page re my health.
Will see what happens I guess. How are you disco? X
I have just looked to see if cancer is a protected characteristic (I'd thought it was) and have found out it is classed as a disability which means they cannot make you redundant for anything at all to do with the cancer, or do anything that means you are treated less favourably than someone without cancer. The fact you have a permanent contract is also a very good thing.
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Sorry that was a really quick and abrupt one from me as I hate the thought of you having to worry about work when you already have enough on your plate!
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Partner I think it's a good thing to feel safe at Christies, it shows a confidence in your team who are clearly working with you, and you actually feel included in all that is going on ( something our amazing NHS cannot always provide, as much as they would like, as they are stretched so far). I get that you now feel a bit nervy in the ' outside world' and that you need to find a half way balance- so use us! We all want to be able to support you and mad as we all are ( Well, I speak for myself there naturally) we will always be a sounding board. Heaven knows you've done that enough times for me and so many others.
In your trusty notebook do write a few lines ready to talk to your boss,don't let them brow beat you into something you are not ready for. If we feel weak, physically and emotionally it can be the worse time to try to stand up for yourself. Be prepared. If send them this way and let us have a go at them for you ;D
Take care partner x
Hey my lovely partner!
You are right of course. I’m going to write down what I plan to say. Just the facts I think and no more. I don’t know who knows what at work, but i do get the sense that now the hysterectomy is done, that’s it, end of.
I love having the knowledge that you are all here as a sounding board, which gives me huge relief, more than you will all ever imagine.
I will find a way through the next phase… xxxx
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Hello again Nas.
I realise that your Aunt means well but perhaps her knowledge is a little out of date.
You have told us that you had breast cancer fourteen years ago and that a type of cancer was found on your womb, hence the hysterectomy. I am pleased that all that is behind you and I hope the medication is kind to you on Monday.
I understand that you have had an issue with your lung and obviously I hope that isn't going to be a problem but I know a sixty year old woman who developed lung cancer after two episodes of breast cancer. A part of her lung was removed recently and she is cancer free and recovering well.
I hope you don't mind me saying all the above but I wanted you to know that even if your lung is affected, the treatment is straightforward and successful.
Wishing you well and take care.
K.
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If work aren't aware of the cancer they may just be leaving you to recover until closer to your expected return date (though a 'hope the op went well' email might have been more appropriate). It would be good to put them in the picture so they know what to expect. I don't think they can make anyone redundant when their on sick leave? In any case it might be worth looking at your contract just for peace of mind, it should state how long you can be on sick leave for before they can terminate your contract. I hope you don't feel too rotten once the treatment starts. As above, I think lung cancer is treatable as long as it's caught early and you will be watched very closely.
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Are you in the NEU? If not, join now.
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Are you in the NEU? If not, join now.
I’m with Unison
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Thanks disco
I’ve got a permanent contract and have been there 5 years. I fear they will say my role is redundant! I don’t want to be seen as the “ sick “ one if you get me?
I don’t do social98
media much and have posted zero on my Facebook page re my health.
Will see what happens I guess. How are you disco? X
Hi Nas
Yes I understand but theyre lucky to have a member of staff like you. You have enough going on without having to worry about work.
I'll be thinking of you as you start your meds on Monday and also hoping they'll be as kind to you as possible.
Oh Im ok you how it is. 5 steps forward and 10 steps back. Feel like im dancing the dark.
Youve got such a strong mind. as well as having had a hysterectomy, having to cope with getting them pesky breast cancer cells sorted, youve also had to come off hrt and you find it within yourself to ask how I am. You're one amazing woman xxx
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Dancing in the dark… ah disco.. we can dance together! 🕺
Coming off HRT abruptly can be tough. I don’t know about you but my moods are very hit and miss and I don’t know how this is going to affect my driving for example, as I had awful driving anxiety prior to going on HRT.
Hopefully disco, things will calm for us as our bodies learn to accept that we won’t be adding in hormones .
Keep us posted on how you get on xxxx
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I'll get me glittery shoes out!!!
Funnily enough I dont drive now due to anxiety.
I'll keep you posted how I get on xxx
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I'll get me glittery shoes out!!!
Funnily enough I dont drive now due to anxiety.
I'll keep you posted how I get on xxx
:foryou:
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Aw thank you Nas, here's one for you xxx :thankyou:
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Hi nas. Wishing you so much goodness and happiness for the new year. I hope you are not having too many adverse effects from coming off hrt. Also , good luck with starting your meds tomorrow also. So much for you to contend with, but we are here to support you as best we can. Sending love and happy new year. Xxx
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Hi nas. Wishing you so much goodness and happiness for the new year. I hope you are not having too many adverse effects from coming off hrt. Also , good luck with starting your meds tomorrow also. So much for you to contend with, but we are here to support you as best we can. Sending love and happy new year. Xxx
Thank you so much Suzy ❤️
I can honestly say I wouldn’t have coped half as much, without the support of all you lovely ladies.
Suzy.. I WILL message you this week. You are often in my thoughts x
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Take care of yourself first, you have more to face than I have. Xx
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Oh god, I’m sat staring at “ the drugs” .. still not taken them. Planning on gulping down with my dinner tonight!
Urghhh.. really don’t want to take them.. I feel well!
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Oh god, I’m sat staring at “ the drugs” .. still not taken them. Planning on gulping down with my dinner tonight!
Urghhh.. really don’t want to take them.. I feel well!
Do you have to start them all at once? Could you maybe stagger start over a couple of days? Also wonder if you'd be better taking daytime (unless they've told you to take at night) for first dose, so you can see how you feel after taking them?
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I was planning on taking them this morning with breakfast, but didn’t get up until late, so had breakfast late.
Ideally they are meant to be taken at the same time each day.
Will take tonight and then in the morning going forward.
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Hello Nas
Wishing you well for when you begin taking your drugs.
Are they the kind that you have to take daily for six weeks? A friend had that regime and she told me that the experience wasn't at all bad and became easier as her body got used to the treatment.
Take care and thinking of you.
K.
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Hello Nas
Wishing you well for when you begin taking your drugs.
Are they the kind that you have to take daily for six weeks? A friend had that regime and she told me that the experience wasn't at all bad and became easier as her body got used to the treatment.
Take care and thinking of you.
K.
Hi Kathleen
One drug ( letrozole) I take daily ( probably forever) and the other ( ribociclib) I take every day for 3 weeks, with a break for 1 week, to have a blood test to make sure my cell count is okay.
I’m so hoping I will be okay 🤞
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Tablets taken !!
X
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Good luck! You've made a start so fingers crossed! X
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Good for you Nas. Keeping everything crossed that you have minimal side effects, or none at all xx
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Well done in finding yet more courage to help your body carry on fighting. I know it's hard when we kind of feel ok so think so I really need these? Trust Christies, they have been a huge support to you and this is part of their treatment to help you further xx
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Thanks partner Sarah, you are right yet again.
It’s funny how fear can grip you, until you are convinced that you do not need these necessary drugs ( which of course I do).
It’s the beginning of the next chapter and it’s going to be tough in the respect of my body needs bloody oestrogen! The symptoms are coming thick and fast, so I’m trying to address each symptom separately.
If I can nail the anxiety, I may be okay. So far I’ve come up with rescue remedy, CBD gummies, lemon balm tea and lots of deep breathing! I’m loathed to take any anti anxiety meds, whilst starting the new meds.
Could anyone else share their non HRT remedies for anxiety I wonder?
How are you partner? What’s our 2024 song right now? Xx
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Hello 2024 Partner,
Well, I am not a huge EJ fan ( was him live once by accident and he was fab) but I keep hearing I'm Still Standing in my head, something relevant for many of us.
I used to use rescue remedy a lot in years past, something's may be more of a placebo effect, but I swear by taking something like that it can help our minds to be able to calm and strenghten our bodies a bit as well. So as long as we use these things and they give a positive help then I am all for it.
Many years ago a previous dr told be the evening primrose oil I got on prescription ( nhs) was withdrawn as they had decided there was no proven benefit. She gave me an understanding look and said I have SO many ladies who take this regularly as it helps enormously so carry on regardless ( Was Sid James in that film?!)
As for safe and kind methods what about aromatherapy oils? When I had ME many years ago I got hold of Aromatheraphy A-Z by Patricia Davis, and I found this helped enormously. Has individual ' symptoms ' to see what may help, as Well as info on each oil.
Do use safely- some oil can cause adverse effects, and just NEVER be used on the skin, but those many like that ARE suitable to use on skin must always be diluted with a carrier oil, I like SweetAlmond organic oil as it is kind on my skin. Maybe an oil burner to gently scent the air? My copy of this book is so underline and highlighted ( and this is someone who considers defacing any book a hanging offence!)
I can't emphasis enough, oils can help so much ( think how uplifted we feel smelling a rose in the garden) BUT must be used with research and respect - and we will all react differently to scents of course.
Hugs and X as always
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Some great suggestions there partner, Thankyou. I do find essential oils very calming, so may investigate further. I also have a burner, so can experiment a bit.
Sid James was indeed in Carry on Regardless..( he was in most of them wasn’t he ??)
I’m still standing is most definitely the song for us all!! It covers all of our differing journeys very nicely.
Today , I joined a fb group for women on the same/ similar treatment as me. One lady whom I met at the Christie first time around, was also sadly in the group. We were friends for a while ( she lives not far from me ) and then we lost touch. She was diagnosed 4 years ago ( bones ) and is doing well.
Many women in the group, are years into treatment. This is VERY encouraging and this is NOT a death sentence I’ve realised!
Feeling positive today ❤️👍😊
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I'm so glad to read the positivity in your posts and great that you have joined the Facebook page so you can get relevant advice and support from women who are facing similar health issues. There is good advice here about coping with anxiety and coping with coming off hrt, can't really add anything unfortunately. Just keep going a bit at a time and be encouraged by how far you have come xxx
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Nas, such a positive post given your massive ups and downs. Nothing like being able to 'talk ' with someone who can fully understand all your questions and fears. Sometimes we keep stuff inside us mostly because we feel we have to keep a brave face for those we care for or just because we are sure no he else feels the way we do. Your FB group will be a safe place to speak freely.
And the knowledge from other women who are going through the same things that are still here, and that must be a massive boost for you. Do share Elton with them too. We are all pretty amazing when you think about it.😘
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Hello Nas,
I hope the first few days with letrozole and ribociclib are going ok. Just wanted to send good wishes for your first week and thinking of you. xx
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Thanks everyone again,
Not a bad 4 days so far. A little nausea and fatigue, but upright, mobile and doing stuff.
Drove for the first time in weeks today ( albeit to Asda, which is 5 mins away!) but did it anyway.
Meno symptoms are bothering me more; anxiety and joint pain ( which is a s/e of letrozole anyway) so got to find a way through that next.
Summer , your message contained some great ideas ( juices/ diet etc ) so will look at that again.
Day 5 tomorrow… ✔️🙏x
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Well done Nas.
Keep going xx
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Glad to hear you are not having major side effects. You've nearly done a week now so onward and upwards! Xxx
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Go girl! 😍
Ok so the car trip was small.and not very exciting destination but it's another first and helps up for confidence in doing these things again.
Joint pain wise, if it's practical, heat helps. I get it so bad in my wrists and a flat heated wheat bag helps relieve it a bit, albeit temporary. I think there is a vegan glucosamine supplement which may be worth looking at? Needless to say you need to see if it is compatible with your medications. Oh, and the hard bit, try not to sit in one position for more than 20 mins to avoid excess stiffness. ( and I did ask, but apparently a walk to see what's in the fridge actually is detrimental to things. 😥)
a great start for you x
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Wishing you all the luck in the world going forward NAS. Baby steps and you will get there. I know myself not driving for a week or 2 can be challenging when going back to it (and that's not after all you have been through) what a bloody journey! - you have been on and still finding time to help others on here - you are one truly amazing lady! :foryou: Not that you should be worrying about work just now but I noticed in one of your earlier posts you were a bit concerned - I have used Acas in the past who have helped me and even got me money back from an awful employer so they may be able to give you some reassurance I am sure.
Take good care and look after yourself - onwards and upwards - keep your chin up Mrs - sending some virtual hugs your way xx
We are ALL behind you here! - group hug - team meno :hug:
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Thanks for the tips partner.
I do have some heat packs, so will experiment a bit with those. Also have some hemp cream, containing tumeric and arnica, which seems to work well ( when I remember to use it!). When I have my medication review in a couple up weeks, I will run various supplements past the oncologist then.
Yes the car trip wasn’t exciting I agree ( got to go to the tip next !) but at least it was a tiny start. Driving anxiety was my very first meno symptom and for that to return in full capacity, would be very debilitating. Xx
Wishing you all the luck in the world going forward NAS. Baby steps and you will get there. I know myself not driving for a week or 2 can be challenging when going back to it (and that's not after all you have been through) what a bloody journey! - you have been on and still finding time to help others on here - you are one truly amazing lady! :foryou: Not that you should be worrying about work just now but I noticed in one of your earlier posts you were a bit concerned - I have used Acas in the past who have helped me and even got me money back from an awful employer so they may be able to give you some reassurance I am sure.
Take good care and look after yourself - onwards and upwards - keep your chin up Mrs - sending some virtual hugs your way xx
We are ALL behind you here! - group hug - team meno :hug:
What a lovely post fifty plus :thankyou:
Thanks for the advice re: acas. I will bear that in mind. As a public sector worker, I’m with UNISON, but haven’t used them yet. I made contact with the Head teacher yesterday and explained
all that has happened. He seemed okay about it and we agreed that would come in prior to my return, to discuss a plan of ( I’m hoping phased return). My note has been extended for a few more weeks to get in better shape physically and mentally.
Not much of else to report.
Hope 2024 is kind to all of us at the wonderful “ team meno” ! :ola:
Xxx
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Hi Nas!
Catching up on your thread. Thinking about the return of your meno symptoms and the anxiety.
A non-hormonal option I would consider is purified and specific cytoplasmic pollen extract. It's a nutraceutical with inhibitory action on serotonin reuptake. It's used to treat meno and PMS symptoms, so it has the potential to address hot flushes and mood changes.
A couple of articles you may find interesting:
Purified and specific cytoplasmic pollen extract: a non-hormonal alternative for the treatment of menopausal symptoms
https://escholarship.org/content/qt42v877kg/qt42v877kg_noSplash_21620a71d4ca38999ca8e0638cf130fc.pdf?t=q6d4ap
And this article refers to a more recent formulation that includes magnesium (56.25 mg per capsule) and melatonin (1 mg per capsule) to improve sleep. (Although it's not named, I think the product they're referring to is Femal Notte. I already take magnesium and melatonin so I wouldn't need the combined capsule.)
Purified and specific cytoplasm pollen extract for the treatment of vasomotor menopausal symptoms: A review
https://gremjournal.com/journal/0203-2022/purified-and-specific-cytoplasm-pollen-extract-for-the-treatment-of-vasomotor-menopausal-symptoms-a-review/#:~:text=Purified%20and%20Specific%20Cytoplasmic%20Pollen%20Extract%20has%20proven%20to%20be,contraindicated%2C%20as%20breast%20cancer%20survivors
Cost is always a concern so I've done a quick search of brand names for comparison.
Brand names include: Serelys (FR), Femal (UK), Femal Notte (IT), Relizen (US), Femalen and Femalen Forte (AT)
Hope you're hanging in there. Keep us posted on what works for you.
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Hey Ana
That information came through at the exact right time, thanks!
I will certainly have a good read through, as only today, I have been sat staring at my lap top, thinking "how an earth am I going to get round this whole meno business now" particularly when returning to work.
Will keep you upated!
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Hi Ana21, a friend living in France was prescribed Serelys alongside her HRT. Thank you for posting about it here. The research is very interesting.
I'm looking for additional means of managing night time vasomotor symptoms that are proving frustratingly resistant to HRT. I see the night time version containing melatonin & magnesium is not advised in women with autoimmune disease (I have Hashimoto's hypothyroidism) but as far as I can see from a quick trawl this morning that's not flagged up for the basic product. Will be very interested to know if anyone here tries Femal & how they get on with it. Can i ask have you tried it?
Wx
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Hi Wrensong!
Sorry to hear you're still not sleeping. You have my deepest sympathy. During my Estrogel experiment, I was waking several times a night with night sweats. It became a struggle to function.
No, I haven't tried Femal yet. I'm back on oral estradiol but using it sequentially this time around. My new doctor wants to see how well it controls my symptoms, so I can't take anything else at the moment.
I'm patiently waiting for estetrol (E4) to reach the menopause market. It's already been approved for use in oral contraceptives so it shouldn't be long now.
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Hi Ana21, thank you for your empathy - the relentless sleep issue is close to making me lose my mind, but I'm sorry to know you have also been suffering badly with vasomptor symptoms.
So you are taking oral ostradiol with a progestogen sequentially now? Have you been able to assess how that's affecting your symptoms yet or is it too early? I'm sorry I can't remember whether you are pre or postmenopause, presumably post if you were previously on continuous HRT?
I'm progesterone intolerant & recently underwent hysterectomy for that & other reasons, but oestrogen alone is not controlling my night time vasomotor symptoms though I don't suffer much from flushing by day. Like you I find Oestrogel especially bad for night time awakening & I assumed that was because of the once/twice a day application method leading to less steady hormone levels than with patch administration, but I don't know for sure. I am interested in the association between oestrogen supplementation & cortisol, especailly the cortisol awakening response which I suspect is gong badly awry with me.
The overheating at night has worsened since hysterectomy last year but I had already had both ovaries removed some years ago so it's not the loss of any residual ovarian function causing the more recent worsening. I am better for not being obliged to take any form of progesterone which was horrendous for my sleep, but much less well on HRT than I was some years ago.
Like you I am very interested in Estetrol but can't find any indication of when it might be available as a menopause treatment. Do you know?
Sorry for taking this thread off track, but it's so helpful to talk to others in a similar situation. Please PM me if you feel that's more appropriate.
Wx
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Hi Wrensong!
Yes, I'm now taking oral estradiol 2mg and Prometrium/Utro 200 mg x 12 days per month. Symptoms improving rapidly. It will take me a few months to stabilize and I expect that will bring an end to the night sweats. My vasomotor symptoms are definitely associated with cortisol level, so they're at their worst in the morning, starting with night sweats in the early hours and continuing with occasional hot flashes and everything that comes with elevated cortisol. As the day progresses and my cortisol level falls, my symptoms dissipate. I don't have hot flashes once the sun goes down and I feel better as the evening progresses. I'm a true night owl. I feel my best late in the evening. It's a very productive time for me. My body cools down in the evening and I often curl up with a book and a heating pad at bedtime.
I know you don't sweat. I sweat profusely so it cools me down and hot flashes pass quickly. It's not distressing, only inconvenient, and less inconvenient now that I have a sweat-proof wardrobe. I feel the physical symptoms of morning anxiety but I know it's elevated cortisol so I don't experience it as anxiety. That helps, I think.
I've read that hot flash bother tended to be associated with higher overall cortisol levels and higher baseline levels of plasma norepinephrine. Night sweat bother, on the other hand, was associated with higher overall cortisol levels and tended to be associated with higher interleukin-6.
I mention that because "IL6 has substantial impact on thyroid function, particularly in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease." In a study to investigate the potential association between serum inflammatory cytokine levels and thyroxine replacement dose in patients with Hashimoto disease, thyroxine replacement dose showed significant positive linear correlation with serum IL-6. Dose per kilogram of body weight was also positively correlated with serum IL-6. You may be aware of this already, but thought it worth mentioning.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1043466606002262
https://academic.oup.com/endo/article/149/6/3062/2455199
I don't have thyroid issues and stumbled on the association while reading about IL-6. I wonder if that's playing a role in your VMS. With the stressful year you've had, it's not surprising that your cortisol has gone up and impacted your estrogen levels. Lisa Mosconi puts it this way: "Stress can literally steal your estrogens. And that's because cortisol, which is the main stress hormone, works in balance with our estrogens. So if cortisol goes up, your estrogens go down; your cortisol goes down, your estrogens go back up."
Exercise is the one thing that works for me consistently to improve VMS and quality of sleep. I need to exercise daily. If that isn't possible, I notice the impact right away. It might not work for everyone, but it works for me. Even when my estrogen is rock bottom (undetectable on blood test), it helps. For me, taiji is the best medicine for high morning cortisol. It brings immediate relief. It's a great stress reliever. For me, it combines the benefits of meditation and exercise. I aim for 30 min of cardio per day. On a bad day, when I'm struggling with hot flashes, working up a good sweat will reset my thermostat. When the day comes that I can no longer take estrogen, I'll still have taiji.
My doctor doesn't think we'll have to wait too long for estetrol to be approved for menopause treatment, since it was approved for use as an oral contraceptive in 2021. No idea whether it will be offered as a combined tablet or on its own.
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Just wanted to correct something I wrote in my prev post. Referring to exercise, I wrote: "Even when my estrogen is rock bottom (undetectable on blood test), it helps." I was referring to Estradiol (E2) only. When using transdermal estrogen, my E2 is so low that test results show "<40 pmol/L", so anywhere between 0 and 39 pmol/L. I will still have other estrogens in my body. At least where I am, there is no test for estrone, so I have no idea how oral estrogen affects my estrone levels or what my body produces. That would be interesting to know. And then there's also brain-derived estrogens, etc.
My apologies for side-tracking this thread. I wanted to respond to Wrensong. I should have sent her a PM instead.
Hi Nas! I hope the sertraline and GABA tea help. Curious about the GABA tea.
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Ana21, thank you so much for taking the time to reply so helpfully & at length. I'm not on the forum much at the mo so I have copied out your reply & will look into the IL-6 association later as this is something I have not looked at before.
It's good to know you are able to manage your vasomotor symptoms adequately & I hope once you stabilise on your latest HRT regimen you will be rid of sleep disturbances, as you expect.
I hope your doctor is right about Estetrol as we could all do with as many options for menopause treatments as possible.
Wx
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Just wanted to correct something I wrote in my prev post. Referring to exercise, I wrote: "Even when my estrogen is rock bottom (undetectable on blood test), it helps." I was referring to Estradiol (E2) only. When using transdermal estrogen, my E2 is so low that test results show "<40 pmol/L", so anywhere between 0 and 39 pmol/L. I will still have other estrogens in my body. At least where I am, there is no test for estrone, so I have no idea how oral estrogen affects my estrone levels or what my body produces. That would be interesting to know. And then there's also brain-derived estrogens, etc.
My apologies for side-tracking this thread. I wanted to respond to Wrensong. I should have sent her a PM instead.
Hi Nas! I hope the sertraline and GABA tea help. Curious about the GABA tea.
The GABA tea is amazing, that shop does both Amber and Ruby. Ruby is about 25% stronger but I've found Amber is always enough. I got it to help me over the withdrawal I get at the end of the utrogestan phase on my sequi regime. You get a dip in GABA then which spirals my anxiety and it worked for that, but I've found it so calming that one cup (made with a teaspoon of tea) is equivalent to a 2.5mg dose of diazepam so I now use it all month long, picking time of day depending on how anxious I feel. It calms my body but with a clarity of mind you don't get once you pop a benzo
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Am I right that gaba, amber and ruby are all teas (sorry I haven't heard of them before) - which one is equivalent of diazepam and where could I buy them? x :)
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Am I right that gaba, amber and ruby are all teas (sorry I haven't heard of them before) - which one is equivalent of diazepam and where could I buy them? x :)
GABA is a neurotransmitter which calms the nervous system. Certain oolong teas are harvested in a particular way to have high concentrations of it. Meileaf tea company sell both a amber gaba tea, and a Ruby gaba tea. The Ruby gaba has higher gaba in it but I started amd stuck with the Amber. It is immensely calming. I will find you a link to the shop and post below.
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Am I right that gaba, amber and ruby are all teas (sorry I haven't heard of them before) - which one is equivalent of diazepam and where could I buy them? x :)
Just realised they also sell an amethyst one, I don't know anything about that. But the amber and Ruby were recommended by my acupuncturist/ Chinese medicine practitioner x
One teaspoon in a mug of boiling water, wait 5 mins then scoop the leaves out and drink as is.
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link removed
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@Penguin, thank you so much - much appreciated x :)
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Am I right that gaba, amber and ruby are all teas (sorry I haven't heard of them before) - which one is equivalent of diazepam and where could I buy them? x :)
Just realised they also sell an amethyst one, I don't know anything about that. But the amber and Ruby were recommended by my acupuncturist/ Chinese medicine practitioner x
One teaspoon in a mug of boiling water, wait 5 mins then scoop the leaves out and drink as is.
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link removed
Hi Penguin
Sorry to jump in. Could I possibly have the link for that tea as well please xx
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I love this. We are all on the Gaba tea? ;D
It is indeed very relaxing, I will say that.
My next stop is CBD. Been there before with it, but will re visit.
Hormonal anxiety is horrid today. Literally felt as though I couldn’t breath earlier at the tip. Or it could be a combination of the thought of returning to work, stuff that needs doing in house, meno, getting DS through his GCSES and life itself!
I joined a f/b group the other month. Possibly a bad idea at the moment and may fuel my anxiety further :-\
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Am I right that gaba, amber and ruby are all teas (sorry I haven't heard of them before) - which one is equivalent of diazepam and where could I buy them? x :)
Just realised they also sell an amethyst one, I don't know anything about that. But the amber and Ruby were recommended by my acupuncturist/ Chinese medicine practitioner x
One teaspoon in a mug of boiling water, wait 5 mins then scoop the leaves out and drink as is.
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link removed
Hi Penguin
Sorry to jump in. Could I possibly have the link for that tea as well please xx
Hi I had an email from Emma to say the link I posted had been removed as we're not allowed to post links to commercial companies.
Hpwever, the name is meileaf tea so if you google that it should take you to the tearoom and you can order via there. The products are hard to find but if you use the search function for amber gaba it will come up x
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Thanks so much x
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Thanks so much x
Pm me if you cant find it and I'll try to help further x
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I will Penguin. Thanks again take care x
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Thanks Penguin for the info on Gaba tea! Really helpful.
Nas, sorry to hear your hormonal anxiety is through the roof. That must be horrendous. You'd mentioned that you were planning to ask your doc for sertraline. Have you started it yet? Is that the best drug for what you're experiencing? You're experiencing something beyond the trauma of cancer and menopausal symptoms, as your brain is no longer able to synthesize the hormones it would normally produce. That seems different from the type of anxiety we usually discuss here. I've been wondering whether treatment differs as a result. Is this part of the what-you-can-expect discussion before you start meds?
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Hi Ana21
No, I don’t speak to the GP until next Monday. The previous GP whom I spoke to a couple of weeks ago ( to extend my fit note) seemed to think I was traumatised, rather than anxious.
I recognise this anxiety well. The fear of doing simple tasks, such as driving my car, which incidentally drove me to HRT to begin with.
In truth, the very professionals who work endlessly to prolong life, simply do not recognise how a life with NO hormones might be; and any hormones which dare lurk, get zapped quite quickly!
To me this is beyond sustainable when only 52 and having to work.
Maybe when my time is up and the drugs no longer work, I will feel differently.
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Hi nas and so sorry that your anxiety is escalating. You mentioned about returning to work, which obviously you want to do at some point, but maybe that should be on the back burner a while so that your body can adjust. You say you've had your fit note extended, so take as much time as you can. Although I haven't had the health problems you have had, I recognise how you describe your anxiety. Sometimes finding it almost impossible to do simple tasks. I think mine is worse since menopause and as you say, the lack of hormones is debilitating. As you say, you are only 52 and it all seems so flaming unfair! I wish I could offer more practical help, but you will always have the support of us on this forum. Please take care of yourself x
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Thanks Suzy x
Just having an “ off” evening :-\
Tomorrow is a new day and I am alive and well. Just so frustrating all this hormonal upheaval isn’t it?
I seem to have think about every task these days and it drives me mad.
Right, onwards and upwards 👆😊
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Hi Nas!
Good to hear your doctor acknowledges the trauma. You've had breast cancer. This must trigger cancer-related post-traumatic stress. How could it not? And you're not alone, which is why I'm surprised at how hard it is to find good info about the best ways to treat the emotional and other side effects of aromatase inhibitors.
Surprised to read you were back at work. I know you need to carry on. I hope your doctor's appt brings some relief.
Thinking of you.
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Hey You,
I have only been rolling in and out the forum lately, too much Life Stuff messing me around.😠 I agree with Ana, in that with the huge and drastic health issues you have been going through, and do this to recover its no wonder you feel as you do. And no hrt to help cushion some of those feelings.
. A quick thought, are you expecting too much of yourself right now? Given the enormous physical and mental stress you have been under your whole being has altered and surely needs time to recover more? Maybe your lessened ability to do simple tasks may be your body and mind switching to ' emergency mode ' if you like? That it is so overloaded that it can only perform the basics right now?
That's just my thought based on how I have been when at some of my lowest states, in time once I realised this and ( sort of ) accepts this, it lessened my pressure on myself and gradually I could do more tasks without trying to be the person I was before all the madness hit.
I hope the Christie or your gp can point you to someone who can talk with you about this. And don't forget to be honest with those closest to you. That day to day stuff is hard right now and it's going to take some time to build up.
Out bluntly - be kind to yourself. Xx
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Hi Nas. I hope you get some positive outcomes from your GP appointment tomorrow as it sounds as though you are really struggling with anxiety. You have been through major trauma physically and mentally and it will take time to heal. But you need something to help you now, so hopefully your GP will prescribe sertraline or something else. Anxiety is terrible to cope with and although my circumstances are different to yours, I have struggled with it like many others on here. It's unbelievable how debilitating it is. At times in the past, trying to cope with various life events, it has totally floored me, unable to do simple tasks.
I was on antidepressants for a long time but came off them nearly 10 years ago as I didn't want to rely on them for the rest of my life.
Withdrawal was horrendous.
Since then I've tried all sorts, St John's wort, 5htp, acupuncture, CBT, for example. I'm too agitated to meditate! Walking seems to help. I haven't really found anything that's satisfactory and menopause hasn't helped.
Are there any talking therapies/groups connected to your treatment? I think others on here have mentioned this to you.
Of course your situation is very different and I'm not comparing. But I know what anxiety can do you, and how getting through the days is a task in itself at times. I'll be thinking of you tomorrow at the GP and I hope you have a positive experience with them. Sending love x
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Thanks Sarah and suzy
Sarah, I hope the life stuff is being kind to you?
Not really sure what is going on right now. Perhaps you are right and I am expecting too much of the body and mind.
I feel as though I NEED to get EVERYTHING done and quickly. I have made several lists and (long term, short term and daily!) Rushing around like a loon, in an effort to get through them.
Think you are totally right, in that some kind of acceptance is necessary, as I come to the realisation that life as I knew it, has gone and it is time to adjust to my new "normal".
How are things with you partner? :) Are we still on the same song?? I think it is a good shout, if we are!
Suzy, I had a productive discussion with the GP today, thanks. She has prescribed my sertaline and extended my fit note for work, for another week, whcih gives me time to adjust to the sertraline and get my head sorted. I hear what you say re: the anxiety and you are right, it is nothing short of debilitating. As you say, trying to complete the simplist of tasks, can seem huge and take three times as long (very frustrating!)
Which anti D did you take suzy? (was it sertraline?) That is my only fear, being addicted and then having to come off them and fall from a great height! I think what will happen is, that I will collect them tomorrow and they will sit in my drawer for a month!
Anyway, i will drop you a message this week to catch up properly xx
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Hi Nas and good to hear from you. I took seroxat also known as paroxatine for over 10 years and stopped nearly 10 years ago. But I am not against anti depressants as they are useful in certain circumstances. Seroxat I think is a difficult one to come off and it all really depends how it's managed. I shouldn't have taken them for such a long time and I went about coming off them all wrong. It's a difficult decision and maybe do some research regarding sertraline, not sure but I think it maybe a different class of ad's than seroxat.
I can understand you wanting to get loads of things done and it must be hard to accept, as you say, the new normal. But you are still you with the same desires, needs and loves. Those things can't be taken away from you x
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Good to hear from you Nas. What a journey! I can't really add anything to what others have said or offer advice. All I can do is send much love and positive thoughts to you. xx
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Hi Nas,
Just wanted to say I'm still thinking of you.
I'm pleased you got your sertraline. Will you taper off your amitrypline?
Keep standing sweetheart, you've had a rough ride but your a tough lady xxx
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I am still thinking of you too and hope the serialise works for you.
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Hi Nas,
A productive appt with the gp. I was on Sertraline for about 2 years just before I went into hrt and it did have a positive effect for me- no jumping for not of course but helped with the anxiety. I think the main advise when it comes to stopping any AD is to wean off slowly. I came off far too quickly and it through me right out of sync. I definitely see an AD as an extra support, I try to think of them as not for entire life but definitely needed at some times in our health. I think once that helps to settle the anxiety Other things may fall into place a little easier.
I'm fancying a change of tune in the literal sense. Something not to loud or energetic but encouraging.... What says you? I can't quite reach the perfect song yet. I welcome your suggestions for our new theme!
Thanks, life keeps chucking the crap at me, but am working with the fibro\ chronic fatigue it's one of those things that changes day by day ( or hour by hour! 😠) so I am learning how much I can do physically before my body gets in too much pain or exhaustion. But have discovered chair yoga ( thanks Penguin!) and a YouTube of yoga for those with chronic fatigue so am feeling happier I can do something at my pace and is beneficial. Thankfully my home life means I can work with this.
Am cutting cra p out of my diet.... Would have saved you the last bar of chocolate but I ate it before I cleaned my diet up. Sorry. Sort of. Xx
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Hi Nas,
Just wanted to say I'm still thinking of you.
I'm pleased you got your sertraline. Will you taper off your amitrypline?
Keep standing sweetheart, you've had a rough ride but your a tough lady xxx
Hey disco, not sure if I will taper off the amitriptyline yet. I guess it depends how the sertraline affects me. It’s still sitting in Asda pharmacy!
How are you getting on without the HRT?
Suzy, I will steer clear of seroxat, it sounds grim! That’s the trouble with these anti depressants; coming off then can be tricky to say the least.
Good to hear from you Nas. What a journey! I can't really add anything to what others have said or offer advice. All I can do is send much love and positive thoughts to you. xx
Thanks :)
I am still thinking of you too and hope the serialise works for you.
I hope it works too. Sorry to hear of the passing of your MIL.
Today I met the leiosarcoma specialist. He’s confident it’s all been cleared, so that’s good. I will archive that one now.
Nothing much to report. My thoughts are turning to work
and a job change ( maybe ).
Just don’t want to work 5 days any longer now, but need to keep earning.
My daughter is home from university this weekend, so that will be nice.
Right, time to tackle today’s jobs! :)
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Hi Nas
That sounds like a plan. Fingers crossed that sertraline will help.
And still dancing in the dark I think 10 steps forward, 10 steps back.
Take good care of yourself x
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Hi Nas, it's great to hear some positive news from your specialist. I am sending some love and virtual hugs your way :bighug:
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Thanks fiftyplus!!
Yes, i feel better days are coming !! :ola: :hug: :spin:
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Wonderful news from the specialist, that must be so good to hear. You sound as though you feel more positive about the future which is wonderful. It's lovely to hear your good news x
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Wonderful news from the specialist, that must be so good to hear. You sound as though you feel more positive about the future which is wonderful. It's lovely to hear your good news x
Thanks suzi 😀
It’s good to know at least one of the beasts is dead and buried. Now to deal with beast number 2.. bring it on!! 💪💪 Xx
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I am still thinking of you too and hope the serialise works for you.
Blooming predictive text! >:(
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I am still thinking of you too and hope the serialise works for you.
Blooming predictive text! >:(
😊❤️
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Hi Nas,
Happy to hear it went well today & with the news the leiosarcoma is dealt with. Into the archive it goes :)
xx
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Morning all :)
Had a scary time Thursday. Felt
“Off” on Wednesday afternoon/evening. Struggled to breathe a bit etc. Rang Christie hotline on Thursday and was advised to go to a&e. So off I went; had bloods, ecg, chest X-ray etc. Bloods tested + for a blood clot on lung!
Then had a full CT, came back normal, no blood clot, but beast cells have invited more friends to join them ( totally uninvited!) and they are having quite a party in there 😡
So, have left message with breast nurse, as I want the fluid drained now.
Feeling slightly deflated as my poor lung doesn’t deserve these b*****d intruders who are trying their hardest to stop lung working to capacity.
Looks like we will need bigger scythe? Or even a device beginning with M and ending in E !
Onwards and upwards and definitely not backwards and downwards! 💪
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Morning Nas
Sorry to hear you are going through such a hard time. I'm obviously still pretty new to the forum and don't really know your full history.
I do know you are an amazingly strong lady and have been very supportive and helpful to me over the last few months for which I am truly grateful.
Onwards and upwards as you say.....sending you big hugs and positive thoughts xx
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Oh yikes sorry to hear that Nas, hope you can get the fluid drained quickly. Can you breathe okay at the moment? Assume they'll give you a follow up appointment sooner now to work out next stage of the plan?
I think the M and E is definitely in order, I'll order one from amazon! X
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Really fed up and sorry to hear the news Nas. What else will life throw at you? Thinking of you as ever and hope everything improves for you soon. Sending hugs and good thoughts x
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Suzy, where there is breath, there is life. Where there is life, there is hope ❤️
Penguin, make sure you order on Amazon prime!! Yes will speak to the team on Monday.
Northerngirl, how are you doing? How long until the results are in?
You have been incredible over the months, particularly as we all know how utterly stressful it’s all been for you. Thinking of you x
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Nas, they said results back in 2-3 weeks but I've heard from the nurses they're more likely to be about 8-9 at the moment....more waiting!!!! I am doing ok today. I'll let you know. Take care :bighug
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8/9??
Okay , remember, IF any thing untoward shows up , IF, they will call you way sooner.
Hang on in there, we are all behind you… :ola:
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8/9??
Okay , remember, IF any thing untoward shows up , IF, they will call you way sooner.
Hang on in there, we are all behind you… :ola:
Agree with you! That's usually the way, they prioritise the call backs x
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Nas and Penguin, 8-9 weeks....apparently that is bad news results at present. I did question the consultant when she said 2-3 but she didn't say much. You know what the waiting times have been for
everything else so I'm not surprised
by this at all. She did say after the hysteroscopy/biopsy that she couldn't see anything and I didn't have any polyps or anything. Just hate all this waiting....is it just me or does it seem like all of us ladies spend most of our time waiting for scans,tests ,results, diagnosis etc etc. Life used to be soooooo much easier xx
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Northerngirl, I feel women’s health in general is massively undervalued. We are expected to “ put up” with so much these days.
8/9 weeks for not all clear, is an absolute joke! Seriously, what do the expect people do?
Anyway, I’m feeling confident you will be okay 👍😊x
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Crikey Nas,
Once the M******E gets delivered I am happy to give it a few swings to test its strength, sound like you are Going To Need A Bigger Shed to store the tools.
Thankfully you yet again listened to your body struggling and got seen immediately. Those bloody cells just aren't listening are they? Please accept ( or ask for) any help and support from those around you. Now isn't the time to put on that smile and carrying all on yourself, do let them figuratively or literally hold your hand when you need it. You are amazingly strong but do that thing we are all shite at doing - remember to be kind to yourself.
I'm thinking a Bit of Shania Twain never goes amiss... Gather even more strength and " Let's Go Girls! ", always songs for me to shout along to!
Let us know how you get on.x
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Hi Nas, I am gutted to read this - I can't type what I really want to say (too many bad sweary words)
I don't know you really well but what I do know is you are a fighter and you will get rid of this too - hang on in there girl we are all behind you! :ola: onwards & upwards
Take good care of and look after yourself Mrs xx :hug:
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Yeah not happy today.
Just bloody bloody annoyed at everything! Scared myself shitless last night. Watching TV in bed, went downstairs to lock back door, came back up… couldn’t get breath..
Since turning 50, the s***t has hit the fan. Menopause, bleeding, doctors, scans, xrays, the “ thing”, hysterectomy; now this shit!
Massive CBA today ( can’t be arsed !) Think I will just eat junk, take up drinking, do the odd puff and maybe the little critters will become obliterated; death by macdonalds!
Partner, we may require something nuclear by the looks of things! Not readily available on Amazon I don’t think! X
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You know what Nas, I was shocked by the range of weapons actually available on amazon prime when I looked yesterday- I think we can defo up the ante on the beast!!!
Totally understand your anger BTW, as if the thing wasn't enough to contend with. Did the nurse call you back yet?
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Maybe we need to take shares in Amazon, what do you think Penguin? I feel we need a more let’s say, “ industrial strength “ weapon and probably a larger shed/ outbuilding to store it.
Will ring Christie’s first thing tomorrow. They were short staffed on Friday x
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Yeah I think you should. I was wondering actually, and may be far off the mark, but has the shortness of breath come on right after stopping the first drug (the one you were just taking for a few weeks)? Perhaps it was really helping....
*goes off to look up sheds on amazon- might have to give up on idea of infra red sauna as garden too tiny for both*
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Indulge yourself with whatever takes your fancy! You deserve loads of treats and then some. I hope you get help from Christie's tomorrow. It's bloody awful all the waiting, waiting. Try and stay strong, you have so much support. (but life really can be a bitch sometimes). Xxx
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Penguin, I took the drugs from January 1st to 21st. Then stopped for 7 days. Recommenced on Monday 29th. Problems started Wednesday 31st, in the afternoon, so I don’t know. What I do know, is that it’s all a headache.
Good luck with shed hunting! 🤞
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Indulge yourself with whatever takes your fancy! You deserve loads of treats and then some. I hope you get help from Christie's tomorrow. It's bloody awful all the waiting, waiting. Try and stay strong, you have so much support. (but life really can be a bitch sometimes). Xxx
Thanks Suzy.. it’s relentless isn’t it? ❤️😊
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Penguin, I took the drugs from January 1st to 21st. Then stopped for 7 days. Recommenced on Monday 29th. Problems started Wednesday 31st, in the afternoon, so I don’t know. What I do know, is that it’s all a headache.
Good luck with shed hunting! 🤞
Oh it sounds like it, glad you'll be talking to the experts tomorrow, they'll know what to do I'm sure! Next stage of the plan x
Sheds are not as exciting as M an Es!
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Sheds are not as exciting as M an Es! ;D
:beat: unwanted guests!
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Nas, was the breathlessness part of an anxiety attack? Already hyper stress because of the almost unbelievable health issues you have been forced to endure, and the (?) unusual scary thoughts? Wouldn't be a surprise that your anxiety is through the door right now manifesting itself in such ways maybe.
I feel Penguin has odd priorities.... why give up an outdoor sauna for a tool shed??? Shove the tools under an old tarp and if need be, use some WD40 ( my weird fetishy smell btw) no one should consider any other option!
I hope this evening can bring a better peace not mind knowing Christies are there in the morning. It just bloody sucks that you are under attack yet again. You understandably should feel like it's another crap hand to be dealt. You need a day ( at least ) to say you can't be arsed. We 're still all behind you as best we can x
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No idea if the breathlessness is part of anxiety partner. Judging by today’s performance, I’m thinking not.
Not going well at all.
Having severe reactions to this ribociclib. Christie have advised to stop it immediately and they will formulate a new plan and be in touch tomorrow.
Can’t see a way out of this crap right now :(
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Ok partner, so Plan A of treatment not suitable but they WILL have their plan B. Naturally this is massively personal and scary for you, but they have worked with so many scenarios over the years, working with so many people that they will be experienced to find the best alternative for you now that is kinder on your body.
They haven't left you on your own with this Nas, I know it's easy for most of us who read your posts - we can't have a clue as to the stress and pain you are under. Trust in your team. And make sure you keep in touch with them as often as you need to. And us. Mad bunch I know but the Maxxxxe Team are here. X
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So sorry to hear you're having such a rubbish time Nas, and to be reacting to the drug as well, must be so frustrating. Pleased that your team is on it though and that turnaround for a new plan is tomorrow.
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I can't add much to SarahT's positive words. You must feel really scared and stressed and so emotional. Try and stay strong and positive, which I know is easy to say, but you will get through this. Sending love and everything and keep in touch with us all xxx
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I'm just catching up on this.
Jesus, Nas, you're proper going through it at the moment. I haven't got anything good to say, but agree with Sarah T - especially about the tarps and WD40.
x
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so sorry you're having such a rough time. We're all with you. lots of love xxxx
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Nas and Penguin, 8-9 weeks....apparently that is bad news results at present. I did question the consultant when she said 2-3 but she didn't say much. You know what the waiting times have been for
everything else so I'm not surprised
by this at all. She did say after the hysteroscopy/biopsy that she couldn't see anything and I didn't have any polyps or anything. Just hate all this waiting....is it just me or does it seem like all of us ladies spend most of our time waiting for scans,tests ,results, diagnosis etc etc. Life used to be soooooo much easier xx
Hi. You put it in a nutshell. I feel that's all I do. I've been waiting 3 months for stomach biopsy results and have had to write to the consultant concerned. 4 months last year and actually rang histology myself. You really have to fight your corner.
Nas, I'm only just catching up. I'm so disheartened for you, it must be so difficult to remain positive and motivated but you do have a great hospital behind you and you sound like you have a lot of nous so there should be a new plan soon.
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Jules having to wait 3 months for biopsy results, is abhorrent. You are right, there is no way round things now healthwise; you must fight your corner, or you are left to procrastinate for further weeks and months. I feel sure it is pretty much the same everywhere sadly.
Northerngirl, I do hope you are getting through each day the best you can; the waiting is spectacularly rubbish. I am thinking of you.
As for me, struggling to be honest. The oncologist wants me to "crack" on with the industrial strength daily dose of drugs and whilst I am finding it nigh on impossible to "crack" on, what choice do I actually have?
Depleted of hormones, now on hormone blockers, coughing for England, feeling sick day and night, fatigued from life and having to contemplate returning to work soon. In truth, I need a new job, probably in solitary confinement with a toilet close by!
Now is not the time to be reflecting on all the stupid life decisions I made, many years ago, which have not allowed me to even contemplate taking any kind of early retirement. Somehow, I need to find a job which pays equal or more. That is next weeks task!
I feel now, I am so much wiser and in tune with the life decisions and how making poor ones, can deeply impact quality of life later on.
Or, is that we do what we think is right at the time because we can't see into the future?
I don't know, but I am off for a walk! :)
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Nas, thank you for thinking of me whilst you are going through your troubles. It is much appreciated. I'm still waiting and will let you know.
I can only repeat what the other ladies have said, that you have a great hospital looking after you and I know you are an amazing person always strong a d advising others while you're struggling.
Hope you enjoyed your walk, it's always good to get out and about in the fresh air. Good luck with the job hunting also. Take care lovely lady :)
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Hey Nas,
First,you are a bloody fighter you! Yes everyone has choices and yours is still to fight, despite the absolute awful effect on your body, so carry on giving yourself credit for still battling on, and it's a huge battle.
Is there any way, or useful point, in trying to reduce your workdays in your current job? Less pay, but would it be feasible or give you enough income? Or maybe it is indeed a better prospect in a new job, a kind of reward to feel you are in a new place and actually appreciated? Dust up your cv or whatever it's called now to show you at your best. Join an agency?? You can always say no if offers don't suit your needs.
some crazy life decisions are a part of all we all are, some work,some dont. But they all lead us to who we are. If you are looking back, don't forget to celebrate the good choices - it's so easy to think of the stupid decisions. We all have plenty of those....Bet you have some good ones too.
Hope the walk was refreshing and blew away some cobwebs. It's sunny and bright here but I've a feeling Mr Rain is coming back soon. So we are enjoying the bright blue sky. 😍
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I'm certain it's natural to reflect in tough times. I've done it. I wish, if only...... it seems to just make me feel worse as theres nothing i can do about it. You shouldn't have to even be worrying about that at this time though. Its unfair.
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Hi Nas and so bloody sorry you are struggling so much and having little choice but to take such strong drugs. I know you said about getting a cold off your son which won't have helped, but as you are at a low ebb you will be open to catching things that are around. I'm not sure what hormone blockers are, I will look them up, but they are probably making you feel crap as well. Do you have to return to work? You don't sound in a good place to go back. Or maybe looking for something new will be a welcome change.
We have talked about bad life decisions before and know it is futile to beat yourself up about them, but it's hard not to sometimes. But we can only work from where we are, which sounds a bit trite but unfortunately true
I can't tell you how much I hope you feel better soon as does everyone on here . Hope the walk has helped and just keep going day by day. What else can you do? Thinking of you and sending love and hugs xx