In Sandra's Shoes

I had my first visit today with my oncologist since starting my tamoxifen regimen in April. I was a little nervous but knew I felt fine.
But I didn't know I'd get a pin prick on my finger so several drops of blood would go in a vial and then be measured for white and red cell count. It wasn't bad jut a surprise and the results turned out well also.
And she and I also talked about the hot flashes. As the tamoxifen pushes the estrogen out of my system, they've increased. Can't take any hormones to help but that's okay. I'm just glad this first follow-up visit went well.

And on the bra thing, found one. I went to a specialty shop and spent awhile trying on all kinds of bras. I'm happy now.

I received a note from a woman who is shooting a video with women who want to share their stories about their experiences with breast cancer. They would like to reach women of all ethnicities.

If you are interested, here's a little more information:

We are looking for post-menopausal women in the Philadelphia area who are taking or have taken hormonal treatment, specifically aromatase inhibitors, in the treatment of breast cancer.

If you are facing or have faced breast cancer and are interested in sharing your story on camera, it will be a unique chance for you to help support other women with breast cancer.

Please have women who are interested respond to ptriggia@digitashealth.net or they can leave a message on voicemail at 215-399-3259.

What cancer cannot do

Cancer is so limited
It cannot cripple love
It cannot shatter hope
It cannot corrode faith
It cannot destroy peace
It cannot kill friendship
It cannot suppress memories
It cannot silence courage
It cannot invade the soul
It cannot steal eternal life
It cannot conquer the spirit

Done in needlepoint and hanging on the wall of a doctor's office. I found it uplifting. I hope you do as well.

I stopped my morning ritual today when I heard a quiver in Robin Roberts' voice on Good Morning America today.
And then I sat down.
She told all of us she has breast cancer and is having surgery on Friday. She found the lump a few weeks ago. She said she had a mammogram and an ultra sound. The cancer was detected through the ultra sound.
Her prognosis is excellent, she said. Praise God.
But then she added one thing that I've learned as well. Early detection is key and having insurance so you can have the secondary test with ultra sound. It can make all the difference.
But the quiver in her voice caught me because it reminded me of the day when I learned I had breast cancer and had to tell my husband and children.
You know it but in those first few weeks, it's hard to say it especially when you are telling family and friends.
Diane Sawyer sat next to her and held her hand through some of the conversation. It was very moving.
You could see the strength and determination in her face that she would face this and be back at work as soon as possible.
Robin, I know you can do it. I did it.
We are breast cancer survivors.