Winnie’s Warriors #8 | Surgery Confirmed

Dear Family and friends:

Well, after being relentless and badgering the admin staff of both my general and plastic surgeons, I have secured a surgery date. (Finally!) They must ‘like’ me, since I have the first surgery time of the day.

It is going to be on Tuesday, April 19th at 8 a.m. Women’s College Hospital.

I am not particularly stressed about the surgery, however, am feeling a little anxious about it. I’m sure it will go away soon…..The important thing is that I have a date and it means that another stage of this journey will soon be over. Now that’s exciting!

I thought I would take a moment to answer some “FAQs” – frequently asked questions

Q: When is the surgery taking place? A: April 19th, 8 a.m., Women’s College Hospital (yes – I know it’s above – but just in case you missed it…..LOL)
Q: How long will the surgery take? A: About 3 hours or so
Q: How long will you be in the hospital? A: About 6 hours or so – – it’s considered day surgery in most cases – – so after being monitored for a few hours after you wake up – it’s see you later!
Q: What kind of surgery are you having? A: Modified Radical Mastecomy and immediate reconstruction
Q: What does that mean?? A: Modified Radical Mastecomy: removal of the breast and tissue; and all my lymph nodes in the underarm area (axilla)
Q: What does that mean?? A: Immediate breast reconstruction: this is actually a 2-step procedure, but starting now, it will save an operation (going under too). The plastic surgeon will use the same incision as the general surgeon to insert a tissue expander that will be inflated over the next 6-12 weeks. Once it is stable, another operation will have to be done to take out the expander and replace with an actual implant.
Q: Why are there 2 surgeons? A: See above
Q: What is the recovery time? A: Generally 4-6 weeks – – but you can still work from home; and try to do normal activities when you feel up to it – – like going through chemo!
Q: Can you go out? Get around? A: Sure – depending how woozy or dizzy I feel. They will continue to supply antibiotics and narcotics. Driving may be tough – will be accepting volunteers
Q: How will your mobility be? A: I will have drains for the first week, homecare/nurse will come around; Apparently I have to take a break from cleaning, cooking and ironing! (LOL)
Q: What can I do to help? A: There will be some things I’ll need help with but, – worry not – I will call you!
Q: Anything else? A: Just pray and send your positive thoughts to me, the hospital staff, and my surgeons, Dr. Cil & Dr. Beber that day.

Between now and then, I am going to get as much done as possible at home & work; mentally: get prepared for another battle; physically: hit the gym to get my body stronger and in good shape (not my usual way to stay in shape, but alas, probably the easiest but not the most fun); AND, going “dry” between now and then…….no drinking……..well, maybe one here or there – – after all, my oncologist did say that it was better to drink a little than none at all!! LOL!!

Thank you again from the bottom of my heart for being there for me. I often get asked how I stay so full of energy and positive, and I say it is because of my amazing circle. They inspire me as I hope I too, inspire them.

Family/Friends: We are almost there!

With love and hugs,

Winnie xoxo

Winnie’s Warriors #7

Mar18

Dear Family and Friends:

It’s been 3 weeks since my final chemo treatment. I am feeling much better. Still a little tired and achey here and there, but manageable.

As I am awaiting a surgery date, I started to think that my little tumor and cancer cells are going to go through “chemo-withdrawal” – normally, they would have been blasted and raging battle in my body this past Wednesday. I don’t miss the treatment, but I am thinking that they might! (Hopefully not – – I wouldn’t want them to think they are free to start roaming and causing havoc again….)

I will update you when I finally get my surgery date planned and set. Then, it’s “call in the favours” time. I know during chemo I remained fairly active and independant, however, they tell me that I’ll be down for the count (mobility-wise) for a couple of weeks. So get the recipes ready – there may be a need for some home-cooked meals! No carrots please!

A little bit of good news – as there always is – at this point, we have decided not to do radiation at this point (unless after my surgery, the pathology reports suggest that I might need to reconsider). My radiation oncologist doesn’t feel obliged to radiate based on my situation. So let’s keep our fingers crossed that his hunch and gut feel (and I agree) is right! My surgeon is on the same page as well. All positive.

Some great news – – my MRI looks much better than it did before I started chemo; AND, although the tumor is still there, it may be a little smaller – at least it didn’t get bigger. My lymph nodes are not as enlarged – to which the radiolost who did my ultrasound said that was “tremendous”! The chemo has done some good, even though some of side effects have not been pretty!

Will keep you all posted. Hope for a surgery date soon in April. It’s making me crazy not having one. Never good for a “planner” like me!! haha.

Big hugs,

Winnie

Winnie’s Warriors #6

Feb28

Hello Everyone:

Well here we are on the last day of February 2011. It’s amazing how quickly time sometimes passes. Last Wednesday, February 23rd, I had my last chemo session and rang the bell aptly named, the “Bravery Bell” as I walked out. Thank you to those who came to cheer me on and be there as I completed the most taxing and crucial step in my journey. I have to share that I was so excited the night before the treatment. Almost giddy….when I thought of the moment of the bell ringing and my friends and family around me, it always brought tears to my eyes. Couldn’t believe the day was coming and so close at hand. Hardly imaginable back last November when the treatments started! Then the moment came, and I rang the bell proudly with my blond wig – it was a bit of a shock to everyone who showed up as I did not disclose the hairstyle choice beforehand. I got a few ‘second glances’ – guess to make sure that it was me under that hair! A man in the next corner told me I looked and sounded like “Hannah Montana” (loud and obnoxious?!). I thanked all those who were there, especially the nurses and told them that I hoped not to see them again under these circumstances! However, the last laugh was on me, as I realized after we left that I had left behind my “neulasta” (immune drug shot that I needed the next day), and had to go back to get it! When I walked back, my nurse Sharon brought out my neulasta right away as she “heard” me. What can I say, I wore a pair of leopard print Manolo Blahnik stilettos with my jeans to chemo that day. Leaving my mother and others shaking their heads – – and saying, “WHO does that?!”.

This last treatment has taken its toll on me. I know it’s the cancer trying to last and linger as the chemo, my body, my mind and spirit keep the fight on to make it weaker and get rid of it. And, of course, all of you who have kept right there with me every step of the way and more so recently in some darker days. It is in knowing that your positive thoughts and prayers are with me that helps me get through some days with just a little cry and then I can smile and soldier on. It’s amazing.

Talking, speaking and seeing others who are in similar circumstances, I am humbled and know how wonderfully blessed and cared for I am in my life.

In June, I have been asked to model and speak at a fund-raiser being put on by a nutritionist at the Women’s Fitness Club of Canada. Maybe some of you will want to come – I am going to fund-raise for them as well – they are raising funds for Women’s cancer and the Wig Salon at PMH. I want to do what I can to help inspire people and create awareness. To pass on my good fortune and blessings to others. Pay it Forward.

Next step: surgery. That will happen in the next month or so. Going to need some more mental preparation for that. But, after chemo, how bad could it be?!

Hugs, Love, Laughs, Tears and a few Fears (left to face),

your warrior, Winnie xo

Winnie’s Warriors #5

Feb7

Good evening everyone:

Thought I would write a little update before I pass out into la-la land with the odd wake up of aches and pains here and there. As you know, I went through chemo treatment #5 last Wednesday, on Chinese New Year’s Eve. So happy to welcome the Year of the Rabbit! Even better news is that I only have ONE more treatment to go!! It has been a long haul and each treatment does get tougher to handle and bounce back – but I’m getting there again. This is a very good reason to have great sheets – you spend a lot of time in bed. Getting a lot of beauty sleep these days!

I must be feeling better – as I painted my nails tonight. Fire engire red for good luck in the new year. I was getting tired of looking at the black spots caused by the taxotere drug. Look good, feel better!

And, at the urging of some, I did manage a break through and purchased a ‘blond-ish’ wig! Be prepared, as I will wear it out without notice or warning! It’s not too bad – – and I did get the approval of my wonderful fashion designers – – Chris and Jim. Who wouldn’t dare steer me wrong?! Actually, my Mom thinks it makes me look pretty cool. (Now seriously, who just read this and didn’t wonder what or who I’d look like?!)

Last treatment is set for Feb 23rd. Have to say I’m still lucky even though I feel like my legs don’t belong to me. New best-friends: my heating pad and steam saunas. Had to give up the Hagen Daas. Zantac works much better without the calories. Still can’t do the ‘light’ ice-cream. Defeats the purpose. Ha.

One last thing: if you ever find that your taste buds are ‘off’, don’t drink milk or good red wine. Only pure spirits such as Vodka and Single Malts can give the metallic chemo a run for its money!

Take care. Continued thanks for all your thoughts, prayers and positive thoughts. I couldn’t keep up without them.

Love and hugs, Winnie

Winnie’s Warriors #4

Jan17

Hello Everyone:

Thank you for all of your messages, calls and offers to assist. I am 2/3 of the way through chemo treatments. Thank goodness. This new series Taxotere is a rough one. Aches, pains, headaches and the metallic taste is so prominent now. I have been taking sleeping pills and major pain killers the past few nights to help. My body feels like it is at least a hundred years old! I’m likely though. I suppose that there are people who live with chronic pain like this for much of their lives. The cold weather doesn’t help either but baths and heating pads are very good. I am trying to get out and keep active a little. The fresh air helps. I’ll soon be seeing me doing the early morning “mall walks” at Bayview Village! Trading in my stilettos for my MBTs!

So far, my weight has remained fairly constant and my colouring is still the same “yellow” and I am thankful for that. I know that I have had a good first half – so I can’t complain.

From what I have experienced this week, I know that the next two treatments are going to be difficult and not to worry – I have all your numbers to call out for help!

Still the same feisty, fabulous fighting Winnie sending you all big hugs and smiles!! xoxo

Winnie’s Warriors #3

Dec5

Hello Everyone:

It’s Sunday – – currently watching to see if Tiger Woods is going to win his first tournament in 2010. Going into a playoff. Exciting way to spend the day no? (That and watching the NFL and sleeping!). Actually, I have spent most of the day sleeping.

I have put up my little Christmas tree and wreath is hanging on my door – so with the snow today – it is really starting to feel like the holidays. That’s nice and comforting. Peaceful.

I had my second chemo treatment on Wed. Dec. 1st. I’m a little more tired this cycle. A little more heartburn and nausea. I have found a new friend in Hagen Daas ice cream! Thankfully, no vomitting and excessive pain. Sleeping is always difficult in the first few nights, but I am hoping that I will get back on track in the next few nights.

Good news – is that 2 treatments down, and only 4 to go. One-third of the way through chemo. That’s a positive. Another thing, I am still eating. Hopefully, it will be as good as the last cycle.

On the subject of my hair – – it’s coming out fast now. I really may have to just get Brian to shave it all off.

Feeling sluggish. Going to have some dinner soon and call it a night.

Thank you all again for being there. See you and catch up soon.

Winnie xo

Winnie’s Warriors #2

Nov14

Hi Everyone:

It’s Sunday afternoon. Thanks for your calls and emails. It’s now been four days since my treatment. It has been going better than I have thought. No vomitting so far – – just fighting the nausea. It wakes me up during the night – – but I spent the last 12 hours in bed. Fortunately, my appetite hasn’t been completed curbed. (As Joanne W said to me – – – if anyone’s appetite is going to stay healthy, it’s going to be mine!).

My hair has started to grow back already – – actually, this ‘edgy’ look is working for me – – I’m a new hat girl now.

I went over to the Wig Salon at PMH – – and told the gentleman about my event – – they want me to post it on their website – – with pictures – – to inspire others by taking control of what we can. I agreed. As Ekat said, “we cannot change what we are dealt with, but we can choose how we deal with it”. I will bring all the donations and addresses down to them at my next session on December 1st. (In case anyone was wondering why their cheques haven’t been cashed!).

I look forward to seeing all of you again soon, for a coffee, lunch or dinner (and maybe even a glass of vino – my oncologist did say it was better to drink a little than not at all!). I knew I liked him! haha.

Take care. Big hugs to all of you, my warriors….my friends.

Winnie xo

Winnie’s Warriors #1

Nov11

Hi everyone:

Just wanted to keep you posted. I went to my first chemo treatment yesterday. All in all not so bad. I have made it one day without too much nausea or vomitting. (Although I had a couple close calls). These new drugs they give you must be working. Although I heard that there is always the real medicial stuff – – the weed! (haha). Don’t think I need to resort to that yet!

Went to lie down at 9 p.m. yesterday. Floated in and out of sleep. Better than I thought.

Going down to the hospital to get my injection for the immune system drug. I spoke to a couple of people yesterday at the hospital (patients too) who said that it really helps keep you out of the hospital for serious infection. Hope so.

Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts.

Talk soon!

Regards, Winnie

Winnie’s Warriors – Prequel

Nov3

Hello everyone:

Thank you for coming out on Monday and making the event so memorable and fantastic. It was more than I could have hoped for and imagined. The support, love, and care was truly amazing and inspiring.

Thank you also for the generous donations that I will be sending off to PMH – Patience Assistance (Wig Salon); I will be giving them your addresses to send you your donation receipts – – but won’t be able to get that organized until at least next week.

I wanted to send you a quick note now, as I am off for Vancouver for a few days of R & R before the real ‘fun’ begins next week.

Take care.

See and speak to you soon.

Winnie xoxo

Welcome to the Club of Winnie’s Warriors

Oct29

Hello dear family and close friends:

Monday, November 1st is going to be a big day for me and I invite you all to be with me as I shave my hair to donate to Wigs for Kids. Brian Philips from World Salon will do the honours.

Any funds that you wish to contribute to my cause will go to the Princess Margaret Hospital Wig Salon to give those who cannot afford one, a wig. I think that would really brightened up someone’s day who has to face this challenge.

I have opted to start chemo treatments now and will have surgery and radiation to follow in the new year. November 10th is my first one.

I thank all of you from the bottom of my heart for all the support and care that you have given and shown me over the past few weeks. It is going to be a long and hard journey, but I am ready to face it knowing that you are all there for me. I am blessed and privileged to have so many wonderful people around me. And so, welcome to the club of Winnie’s Warriors.

I ask you to come out, have food and drinks with me – Monday, November 1st – Centro Restaurant & Lounge, 2472 Yonge Street.

In the Lounge: Drinks: 6:30 p.m. “Show” 7:00 p.m. and Dinner to follow.

Regrets only.

See you there.

Winnie xo

Winnie's Warriors

Chronicles of a Warrior.

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Winnie’s Warriors #8 | Surgery Confirmed

Winnie’s Warriors #7

Winnie’s Warriors #6

Winnie’s Warriors #5

Winnie’s Warriors #4

Winnie’s Warriors #3

Winnie’s Warriors #2

Winnie’s Warriors #1

Winnie’s Warriors – Prequel

Welcome to the Club of Winnie’s Warriors