[Mariposita]

Thanks guys for the support. The surgeon's appt is not until Thursday and mum is coming back home tomorrow. I hit the gym today and worked off some stress for 1 1/2 hours

The only remodelling news I have is that we finally got our pulls (last batch yesterday), and we have about 3/4 up already. Somehow remodelling sounds like major fun now

Will be back to let everyone know how we're doing.

[Mariposita]

My mum has been undergoing different tests, and recently completed another ultrasound and MRI of the right breast (left has cancer). So far, they told her that it has not spread to the other breast, so that's something to be thankful for. They however are concerned about the lymph nodes (two) and would like to do a Cat Scan, bone density scan and another bone scan? I wasn't too clear on this one. There is the thought that the cancer might have spread to other areas. Still, she's in great spirits and is going on vacation with us before surgery which is scheduled for the 19th of July. Thanks guys for your well wishes. The shock has passed

[Mariposita]

My mum has been undergoing different tests, and recently completed another ultrasound and MRI of the right breast (left has cancer). So far, they told her that it has not spread to the other breast, so that's something to be thankful for. They however are concerned about the lymph nodes (two) and would like to do a Cat Scan, bone density scan and another bone scan? I wasn't too clear on this one. There is the thought that the cancer might have spread to other areas. Still, she's in great spirits and is going on vacation with us before surgery which is scheduled for the 19th of July. Thanks guys for your well wishes. The shock has passed

[madp67]

Glad you're in good spirits Mari and a big hug to you.

Keep the positive thinking as it appears to be helping.

Have a wonderful vacation with mom - enjoy the now - as you appear to be doing. Once you're back, then you can focus on the surgery.

Wishing you and her all the best.

[dafogle]

Hey Mari: Enjoy the vacation ... I've had both a bone density and a bone scan - they are both very easy.

The bone density (DEXA scan) is very low radiation - the tech stays in the room where I have mine done - you lay on a table and the table vibrates while the machine does its' thing - its' quick and quite relaxing. It only looks at 3 or 4 specific spots - hip, spine - this test won't tell anything about the cancer - they are just checking the density to see if she's got osteopenia or osteoporosis.

The bone scan is to detect any possible spread of the cancer to her bone. She'll go in and have an injection of some tracer material - and then go back several hours later for the bone scan. This is an easy one too - she'll lay on a table and the machine will move from the top of her body down to the feet - for this one the tech was also in the room looking at the computer while the scan was underway - the won't tell you a thing - only the doctor can communicate the findings. If something "lights up" - it doesn't mean there's cancer - it could be prior injury, arthritis - etc.

The CT will be looking at other common areas that breast cancer typically metasticizes to.

Sounds like your mum's doctors are being thorough - that's great! But... also stressful and full of anxiety for your mum, you and the rest of the family. Your mum's lymph nodes were doing their job ... I've got my fingers crossed that its' limited to those two lymph nodes and there's no mets - but... if there is .. just know that there are sooo many advances - and there are many many women living with bc mets ... and living full, happy lives.

Signed with Hugs and prayers,
Doreen

[DulcineaK]

thoughts and prayers are with you, your mom and your family!

[Mariposita]

We're taking her to Playa Del Carmen for three weeks. Her wish is to wear a swimsuit with her "real breasts" for the last time. She's more excited about the trip as we get closer and less preoccupied with her condition, so that's a good thing. The surgeon says a few weeks makes no difference with her cancer.

Doreen, mum has been reading a booklet on the surgery and trying to educate herself. She is of the "old" school where they tend to leave every decision to the doctors and not ask questions, but I take whatever information I've gathered (lots from you, thanks!!!) and arm her with more knowledge so she can ask her doctors and feel comfortable with what they're saying.

I need the break before her surgery as well. I'm already scared for the actual day-to-day care that we will have to give, because I am the only sibling in town and not sure if anyone will be coming to help me. I'll need the support

[laurie]

How is your mom doing?