December 20, 2015

Happy Holidays....

Here is hoping all is well with everyone.

As the year ends, it always seems like it went too fast.  Some people have accomplished everything they set out to.  Some have accomplished half or fewer of those goals.   And some people promise to make those goals next year.

Whatever it may be or whatever it may have been, it is important to acknowledge anything that worked for you and what did not.  Recognize what helps you forward, and what holds you back.

I can only hope this advice helps you as it has helped me.  I remain positive and moving forward, because it is the simple advice that helps the most.  Move forward.  Be better.  Acknowledge the pain because it means you are alive.  Help when you can and accept when you cannot.

I have lots of Christmas cards to work on and plenty of holiday craziness to attend to.  I hope to continue to check in as 2016 progresses.

Enjoy your holidays.  Make some goals.  Write down fun things that happen and take note. Put them in a jar or journal to remember at this time next year.  Whatever it is, I only relay what I have learned from the people in my life.

Happy Holidays.

Love, Sosa

November 1, 2015

Hello Everyone and Welcome back.

Did your October included new efforts for breast cancer awareness? Wearing pink is a sign of hope for all those who fight this disease. But it does not stop with wearing pink.  Awareness means opening a dialogue, or gathering knowledge, and sharing with others so information can be shared about what is happening with breast cancer treatment.

This month, I participated in coordinating our annual softball tournament, which included some pretty cool trophies with pink ribbons.  It was a long day, and I was able to share my story to those who saw me there last year, when I had no hair. My friend and I are always excited to plan the event and it was a success.

This month, I sold TEAM SOSA wristbands and tournament towels as fundraisers.  I worked with a committee to coordinate a fundraiser luncheon at my work, which raised money for the Cancer Support Community and the Food Bank.  I attended the Rethink Pink Luncheon at Saint Mary's College, and showed attendees that I am still living with a Stage 4 Diagnosis.

Along with participating in awareness activities, I was very busy working two jobs and playing softball.  I haven't played in a long time, but it has gone very well.  I am grateful for my teammates and the opportunity. My body definitely hurts more than it used to. But I can still hit the ball.

All of these activities are possible because of medicine that allows my body to keep my cancer under control and slow growing. I continue to have infusion, but now every three months instead of monthly.  I take a pill which has been proven to maintain cancer growth.  With the help of my treatment, and my motivation,  I have been back to work for a whole year. 

I have learned more about the investments people made in breast cancer awareness which have resulted in better technology and science.  For example, new machines are developed to identify cancer in women with dense breasts.  There are many advancements in breast conserving surgery, which provides hope to women who are diagnosed early.  The treatments for breast cancer are continuing to develop, even from last year, when I went through treatment.

There is always more to share about breast cancer awareness and treatment, but it is up to those affected to ask the questions and share the stories.  I hope this past year has helped people with concerns to come forward and share with doctors, families, and friends.  I have met many survivors and shared memories of those lost to this disease. 

Support systems are always so important, and I wish I could acknowledge each person who asks how I am doing and if I need anything.  I am very grateful for everyone who I have met on this journey and who are still along for the ride.  I am not always behaving like the same person I was before treatment, and my friends are patient and learning the difference.  I sometimes feel like I am not strong enough, or being too sensitive, or I just don't get it right. Thank you again, every day, for your help and your love.

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I will continue with the monthly blog, and post entries on the first Sunday of the month.  I will try to post photos, but I have a new computer, and that has not been easy to figure out. 

I will place an order for TEAM SOSA shirts in the next week, so please let me know if you are interested. I also have wristbands and tournament towels.
Send me an email here: heysosateamsosa@gmail.com

October 4, 2015

As promised, I have returned the first week of October.  Here is hoping all is well, wherever you are.

I am staying busy and working two jobs.  It has almost been a year since I returned to work, which is an important milestone.  It means I have survived my first year without more chemotherapy. I still take hormone therapy to control my cancer, but, right now, its not so bad that more intensive treatment is required. 

Being a survivor means more than just surviving cancer and treatment.  It is what fuels managing symptoms and physical exhaustion.  It is learning how to distinguish aches from significant pain.  Survival is managing a busy schedule and allotting for an hour a day, or a few hours a week to chill out.  Survivors appreciate a night off from everything, and welcome distractions.

The weight of our world can be very hard to bear.  There is the physical demands of post treatment readjustments, even a year later.  There are the emotional and psychological demands of knowing your death is sooner than previously imagined.  And there is the reality, facing the truth, that this disease does not play favorites, and does not care who it goes after.

This week, my community lost another fighter.  I went to school with Charlene in Madera.  I remember when he school went to her brother's funeral, after he was killed in the explosion on the USS Iowa.  I always thought she had the prettiest eyes.  When I was diagnosed and in treatment, I saw some Facebook postings, and we sent a few messages.  She and I shared some of the demanding stories that only survivors can share.  Charlene went through so much physically with her second cancer battle.  And she came to a complete decision to return home to her family to rest in peace.  It is publicly clear, she was truly loved.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  This month focuses on the early detection programs, and informing communities of the new medicine and efforts to develop treatment.  Pink is everywhere, and it means more to me than it did two years ago.

Just this past week, I met more survivors, because I was wearing a survivor shirt.  We exchanged stories and reminded each other to keep fighting.  Because its all we do.  I appreciate those who are cancer free after undergoing treatment.   

I will wear my pink this October, as a badge of courage and strength and survival.  Because, right now, today, I survive this cancer.  

Love, Sosa

September 7, 2015

Hello Everyone and welcome back.  I would have posted earlier, but I fell asleep.  So, its still Sunday night, kinda...

Thank you for returning to check in.  I will continue to post monthly entries, and respond to your emails and messages. 

Since last entry, I have kept busy with work and personal activities.  I like having something to do after work hours, whether its going to the gym, meeting a friend for dinner, working a second job, or practicing softball with friends.  I stay busy by staying active.  I have attended a few baseball games, and some junior football games.  I joined some friends in Palm Springs and just returned from a road trip to Humboldt with my parents. September includes more running around.

***
The posted photo is an appreciation of those who I surround myself with.  I think about Team Sosa every day, and remember how important it is to surround myself with support.  Every person should acknowledge and be grateful for any support system in their lives, no matter how small.  I am very glad to know, if I need something, I can always ask.  There will always be the independent Sosa, who can do it all on her own.  One thing, I have changed in my life, is taking opportunities to ask for help.  That truly makes the hard times, a little less hard.

Part of that, too, is being open about life and what has happened in the past year and a half.  Sometimes, people still have difficulty understanding that I am still Stage 4, and "don't look it."  A lot of people have said, if they did not know I had lost my hair, they would never have guessed I did not mean to cut it short.  Alternatively, some people still look at me with sympathy, or as if I am dying. They wonder why I did not have surgery or spend months in the hospital.  I acknowledge everyone who has the courage to ask me why. I always search to find a better way to explain that I am "living with cancer," because some people only hear "cancer," and not the "living" part.....

I can also understand its very difficult for those people, just from their own experiences.  Most people have friends or family who are diagnosed, and they do not live very long.  Or, they live longer but are in obvious treatment (no hair,  lots of hospital trips, no job).  We have lived so long with medicine that does not cure cancer, it is hard to accept there is medicine that treats cancer. 

I continue to receive treatment to keep my cancer under control. It allows me good quality of life, or it has for the past year. That is the benefit of more medicine, developed by continued donations and fundraisers, like this upcoming October pink events.  I have friends with different forms of cancer who are in lifelong treatment, like me.  I also have met plenty of cancer survivors.  They have been treated and continue to be tested cancer free.  Medicine has come a long way in improving quality of life for those who have completed treatment, and those who continue to endure it.

***
Right now, I take one pill a day.  This medicine is the second in a variety of medicines I will take to keep my cancer from spreading beyond its current state.  Some people have chemo or radiation to slow down their active disease.  These treatments are advancing quickly in lowering risks of recurrence and managing dreadful side effects.

I am aware the medicine I take slows things down for a few years, before the disease becomes something else. And, I will get another CT scan this month, and all forms of treatment go back on the table. 

Until then, and as usual, I will still be out there, working hard, breaking hearts, laughing harder, crying less, and smiling more.

See you in October............................Love, Sosa

 

 

August 2, 2015

 

As promised, I have returned for another entry.  I took a few weeks off just to take a break.  I also work two jobs, which includes Sunday nights. 

 

I hope things are well with everyone, as my friends have travelled this summer, both for enjoyment and in support of their children in various sporting events.

 

I just wanted to check in to say its going alright.  I stay very busy which does not leave time for much else.  I deal daily with bone aches and pain, and hot flashes and fatigue.  Ironically, fatigue doesn't lead to great sleep.  I manage my symptoms as anyone else manages theirs.  People treat all kinds of diagnoses with medicine or exercise or alternative methods.  I do the same.  

 

It is not always easy.  Some people say I have made the treatment look easy.  The medicine makes things easier.  But easier does not mean easy.  Some days are harder than others for all kinds of reasons.  I can only focus on better days ahead.

 

That is how I seem stronger.  By focusing on the things I can affect in a positive manner, and accepting the reality that exists.  I admit there are days I do not feel as strong.  There are days I feel alone, and days I feel like its hard.  But I remember, chemotherapy is hard, treatment is hard, surgery is hard.  Dying is hard. 

 

So until it comes to that, this is easier than it could be.  I focus on what I can handle.  I focus on remaining strong. And I rely on the strength of others to help me when it gets hard.

 

 

I will return with another entry the first Sunday in September.  Email me directly if you want to chat before then. 

heysosateamsosa@gmail.com

 

Be well, Love, Sosa

July 5, 2015

This week I lost a member of my support group to cancer.  She was an advocate for others during her ten year battle and she will be missed.  Like our friend Marie, she wished for a celebration of her life, upon her departure. 
Thank you Jean, for your spirit.


Holding on to memories of experiences and lessons learned, is essential to making good choices. Learning from mistakes and accepting the past is part of that balance.  Letting go of the anger and regret with the past is much more difficult.  Even figuring out what causes anger or regret is just as difficult.

People I know have lost their lives to cancer these last few weeks.  Its very easy to hold on to the grief. Those feelings can hover and remain for more than just a few days. Eventually, it will be easier to loosen the grip on grief. I believe it is just as important to let go. That decision is unique to the individual, and can only come with time.  It is part of the balance.

As I have written, I choose to live my life as normally as possible.  But it does not mean I am not dying.  I am not in denial about the disease I have or the reality of its damaging effects.  When friends lose their family members, it is a reality check.  Do not think me foolish; I understand this road.  Being on this journey means I travel uphill, a lot.  I am reminded daily of everything.  And I am reminded more often lately, of how cancer touches the lives of people who do not have the disease.

I do not wish grief upon anyone; I acknowledge it is part of accepting loss.  Writing in the blog, is a way of accepting loss.  Celebrating the lives of those who fought bravely against an incurable enemy, is another way of understanding grief and loss.  It is finding solace in granting the wishes of how the loved ones wanted to be remembered.  Eventually, it is holding on to the memories and letting go of the grief.

Love, Sosa

I am taking a break from the blog and will return the first week Sunday in August.

June 28, 2015

Plumeria is an island flower.  I will think of Hawaii and Marie whenever I see it.  Last week, my community lost a friend to this disease.  She fought hard through a very difficult and lengthy treatment.  She has a great family and many who loved her smile.  We will miss you, Marie.

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This week, I introduced another friend to my blog.  While he isn't diagnosed, he knows people who are.  I try to communicate resources to others, because that's the necessary information to prepare oneself for the road ahead.

I was fortunate enough to sit down with another young person this week.  She is diagnosed with cancer a few months ago and in the first cycles of chemotherapy.  We discussed resources like the American Cancer Society and the Cancer Support Community.  We talked about the "new normal," and how facing the disease means adjusting to its rules.  We talked about communicating with loved ones and being selfish. 

That part will always be difficult for some people, but necessary to power through the tough days.  We talked about being emotional, but only briefly each day.  Giving time to grieve is important to understanding the long road ahead.  But it does not help to be sad all the time.  It is important to allow time to process emotions, like anger and sadness. Everyone has right to their feelings and opinions.  Then let it go.

Being able to talk with another young person about cancer is a very special experience.  When I first walked into support groups, there were very few people my age. I met a few people as the months went on, and I am glad to keep in touch.  Being diagnosed before age 40 or 50, separates a generation of people who may still want to be married, or have children, or are still working full time.  In this lifetime, there are more people who are choosing to start their lives after age 30.  Its bittersweet to think about young people who were saving those decisions for later, are now faced with a shorter time, hindered with treatments, and an unknown future.

I don't know how long I have.  But neither does anyone else.  The rest of my journey will be harder, this is true.  But it does not mean I don't want to reach my personal goals. I still want to move out of my apartment, and travel, and have some dogs, and fall in love.  I tell myself, and others, every day, that I am living with cancer.  "With" is the key word.

________________________________

Love, Sosa

June 21, 2015

Happy Father's Day.
If you know my old man, send him a hello.  Maybe you played ball for him, or he taught you something new.  Or you recognize him because he looks exactly the same for the past twenty years....


This weekend, I stopped by a Relay for Life event in Vacaville.  It was over a hundred degrees, so I could not stay too long.  It was wonderful to see all the people walking, and a few crazy people running, during the 24 hour event.  There were lots of participants when I stopped by, and I am sure there were more coming.  The American Cancer Society uses the Relay for Life event to increase awareness and honor the fallen.  It is a great experience, and I hope to participate in the event next year, or with other local towns. 

Here is a link: http://relay.acsevents.org/site/PageServer?pagename=relay&gclid=CjwKEAjwwZmsBRDOh7C6rKO8zkcSJABCusnbtdQ6gJMduqfKxHGT_sA14QAmyY0crJdBa1RlhWq5GhoCPF7w_wcB


Another link I would like to post has to do with a viral video about Metastatic Breast Cancer.  A woman uses note cards to explain her perspective about having the disease.  Her video encourages people to understand breast cancer and what a re-diagnosis means.  I am in the 6-10% initially diagnosed. 
Hopefully, this video and the links that she recommends will provide some more understanding for your friends and family.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDQ0FjP7J-c

Have a good week,
Love, Sosa

 

July 14, 2015

Flag Day

 

and Happy Birthday to Meg and TJ.

 

The blog has been viewed over 15,000 times since it began over a year ago.  I appreciate those who take the time to look at past entries and share with others.  People are diagnosed every day, which means family and friends are faced with understanding and accepting the change that cancer has on their lives.

 

One thing that I don't discuss too much is mortality.  I continue to put faith in the medicine that is extensively researched and proven to work. Even knowing that the standard treatment of surgery and chemotherapy will not save me. Research has proven that catching breast cancer early and treating it aggressively can ensure a long, cancer free life.  Research has shown that those with cancer that returns later in life, can continue to live life with available treatment.  Quality of life is improved because medicine controls the spread of the disease. 

 

That means more people are living after being treated for breast cancer. 

 

And, more people like me are living with the treatment for breast cancer.  That means my quality of life is good, because of improvements in medicine.  I will continue on my current non-chemo treatment until my doctor decides chemo or surgery is that way to go.  It is not an easy task not to think about cancer every day, because it just isn't.  That is part of my life now.  But it is not my whole life. 

 

I do not think abut dying as if that's my only reason for living.  Yes, cancer is devastating because it affects the patient and their friends and family.  But, unless it has taken over your everyday functions, it doesn't have to be everything and anything.  I remain very active and live with the disease.  It's all I can do.  I am no more different than anyone else, but I adapted a different perspective on a lot of things. 

 

Accepting my disease means I accept my mortality.  Some things may happen to me sooner than others, or not.  Some people will be diagnosed after me, and leave this Earth sooner, because of the disease they have and the journey chosen.  As anyone who has experienced the trauma of loss can attest, the experience is not easy, or brief, or simple to explain.  But, after time, and education, and support, and grief, acceptance will eventually come.

 

One day, it will get more difficult.  One day, it will become very, very hard.

 

But I don't think about that day.  I think about tomorrow.

 

Love, Sosa

 

Go Dubs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 7, 2015

 

 

The photo above is of a gift from Major League Baseball for being a finalist in the Honorary Batgirl contest.  I now have two little pink bats and one very special big one. Pretty cool.

 

This week was rough at first, but eventually much easier because I was distracted with work and life.  Watched some softball, some basketball, and went to a Giants game.  I am very lucky to have spent lots of time with friends. 

 

And now I have a cold. And I stubbed my toe.  Oh well, so is life. 

 

__________________________________

 

This was a week of very happy news for friends and very tough news for others.  I watched people focus on the negative aspects of certain events.  There is so much time wasted on anger and frustration with the things that cannot be changed.  It is so fruitful to take the time to see things differently, and fight through the emotions that challenge us.  Accept the help from others, regardless of your pride.   Its hard, I know.  And trust in whatever you need to trust in.

 

________________________________

 

On Facebook this week, I watched and shared a video of a woman who was treated for breast cancer, which returned later.  She reminded her audience that there is no cure once it returns.  Early diagnosis is key to preventing the recurrence.  And its true that treatment is not a guarantee.  But the science has developed to give more men and women a greater chance than ever to prevent recurrence and live long healthy lives.

 

What else is good about the medicine, as this woman said in her message, is that survivor like me, who are in the 10% of diagnosed with Metastatic Cancer at their first diagnosis, is that the medicine is there and allows us to live while in treatment.  She used the term "Lifers," which I think is appropriate.

 

I say this often, but it is a reminder.  I may have a cold, or car problems, but I still cook and clean and get up every day.  I choose to live. 

__________________________________

 

 

The word "WARRIOR" means a little bit more this week.  Go Dubs.

 

 

 

Love, Sosa

 

 

 

 

 



May 31, 2015

Stay Focused.  Do What You Gotta Do.

When I prepare the blog on Sunday night, I use internet images to post pictures to go along with the week.  This is one of the fighters I found, and I think she is kind of cool.

The blog will pass over 15k views this week.  I appreciate the support of everyone over the past year.  I appreciate the sharing of this blog with those who think it may help cancer survivors or their families and friends.

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As I have done the past year, I have included readers of the blog with steps in my treatment.  Without going into great detail, I had outpatient surgery in order to begin a new medication to battle my disease.  It was a decision I made to give me a greater chance of responding to cancer treatment.  The recovery has been painful and emotional, which is standard for anyone going through this disease.  This last week was another battle in the war that I will continue to fight for as long as I live. 

I appreciate the support from everyone who checked in with me this week.  While I continue to be stubborn (I prefer "independent"), I may not need anything, but I appreciate hearing from you.  Thank you for the help, and the visits, and the ice cream.  Thank you for the emails, calls, and texts. Thank you for wearing your Team Sosa shirts and letting me know I am not alone.   

Love, Sosa

May 24, 2015

Hello Everyone and Welcome Back,

I am happy to report that I found time in a very busy schedule to find a solution to my computer issue. Apparently, five years is "old" for a laptop.  So, I found a good deal, and purchased a new one.  I would not have been able to have a good deal if friends hadn't provided me with sound advice and a portable hard drive. Thank you for that.

__________________________

I included the picture of the ribbons and the colors in today's blog because I am not sure if the readers were aware of some of them.  It is really interesting to learn there are designations out there for supporting different cancers.  Maybe you didn't know this, or maybe you did. Maybe you saw the magnet on a car or a ribbon on a lapel.  There is support for so many people that may not even know.  This might be a good conversation starter for families and friends who are facing cancer in all its forms.
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This week, I have been very busy with work and life. Its exhausting sometimes, and I realize I have to pay attention to my body and abilities.  Facing cancer is hard every day, because it facing the disease, and mortality, and everything that goes with it.  Going through treatment is a different kind of hard, because it is side effects, and trying to adjust to those side effects on a daily basis.  Its a new normal and I have to be aware of what I can say yes or no to doing.  And heed the advice of those who remind me not to do too much.  And only do what I can.  As time passes, I start to feel better and keep engaging in lots of activities.  But, then something happens and my body provides the slow and painful reminder.  But I keep my head up, and take the meds I need. And sleep.
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Lastly, lots of my friends are travelling the world this week.  Big things are happening to them in Spain, Italy, and Peru. I wish them well.

Love, Sosa

May 17, 2015
Due to technical difficulties, I do not have my normal blog entry.
So no pictures or images this week.

My laptop is now considered "very old," and must be fixed.

Luckily, it is a fixable problem.

......

I would like to say Thank You to everyone who contributed to the Two Week fundraiser for the Cancer Support Community. Your contributions raised $500 for the organization. Thanks to those who joined me for the walk on Saturday. Over 150 people walked and they raised $70,000.

Have a good week. Hope to be up and running soon.

Love, Sosa

May 10, 2015
Happy Mother's Day

This has been an incredibly busy week for me, and I am exhausted.

First, besides work, I spent a few days in Las Vegas, visiting with family and watching Fresno State softball win the Mountain West Championship.  Our girls played some great games and head to Oregon for the NCAA regional.  First game is Thursday versus North Dakota State.  I am very grateful to have met the players and their families this season. 

Second, I started some fundraising for the Hope Walk for Cancer Support Community on 5/16 in Walnut Creek.  This is a fundraiser for an organization that provides FREE support services to patients and their loved ones.  This includes support groups, exercise classes, therapies, and children's services.  The walk is on Saturday and you can pay $25 to support a good cause.  Tax deductible, of course.
Love the large, heavy bag of pennies a coworker produced from her desk for me last week.  Wonder what else I can find.................

And finally, the picture above is from today's Giants game versus the Marlins. Along with the other honorees, I was welcomed onto the field and they announced all of our names.  There was a video on the Jumbotron, and we were all very lucky to be part of it.  I am pictured with Lou Seal and his mother, Louisa.  I have a Team Sosa shirt in my pocket, which came with me onto the field.  I touched the dirt and took a thousand pictures.  Friends and family were in attendance all over the park.  I also saw the Honorary Batgirl winner. 

And they took us to the ninth inning, and won in walk-off fashion.  I would not have it any other way.

Love, Sosa

Very Early Monday, May 4, 2015................

I am just getting in from attending a concert in San Jose.  For the third time, in so many years, me and my godbabymama saw New Kids on the Block.
We keep getting closer and closer to the stage...  I was very happy to be able to attend this year, and stand for a majority of the show.  And scream, of course.
Looking back, there is absolutely no way I would have been able to see them last year.  Ironically, they did not come into the Bay Area last year.  As if they knew I was unavailable, of course....My ears are gonna be ringing for a few days.............
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This is a very busy week for me, as I head to Vegas to watch Fresno State Softball secure the first division championship in six years.  And, on Sunday, I will be on the field at AT&T Park as part of StrikeOut Cancer.  I am among honorees who were selected by the Cancer Support Community to participate in this cancer awareness event.  I would love to meet with you if you plan to attend on Mother's Day.  Its going to be an emotional day for everyone involved in the event.  And there will be a ballgame too.

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Last, but not least, I am fundraising until only May 15th for the Cancer Support Community.  There is a Hope Walk at Heather Farms in Walnut Creek on May 16.  I would love anyone and everyone and their dogs to come walk with me.  This is a fundraiser, so it costs $25 to walk.  If you can't make it, I will be around to collect donations of any amount.  Maybe you have some change in your car?

The Cancer Support Community has provided free services to patients and their loved ones for over 25 years, and not just in the Bay Area.  The organization is in most major cities.  I cannot stress how important support is to the journey that I have been on.  Cancer patients depend on the support of others, whether its family, friends, or medical professionals.  Some of the best support is from others who understand treatment because they survived it. 

You never think you need this service until you need this service.  Please help in any way you can.
http://www.cancersupportcommunity.net/events/hope-walk/

Sunday, April 26, 2015

http://www.cancersupportcommunity.net/

http://www.cancersupportcommunity.net/events/hope-walk/

Thank you to everyone who continued to vote over the past month for me to be a Batgirl with Major League Baseball.  I was a finalist, among ten women, who competed to be a part of the San Francisco Giants on Mother's Day.

Unfortunately, I did not win the Batgirl.  However, I have wonderful news to share.

During the past year, I visited the Cancer Support Community in Walnut Creek on a weekly basis.  I benefited primarily from the support group where I learned so much about the journey that cancer has become in my life and the lives of others.  The Community provides therapeutic classes to encourage wellness and healing, and education on how cancer can affect so many different parts of one's life.

The Cancer Support Community, along with Strike Out Cancer and Genentech, selected me as an Honoree for the Cancer Awareness event at AT &T Park on Mother's Day.  I join a group of survivors who will be interviewed to share our stories and be featured on the big screen before the game on May 10.

I was very surprised to be asked, as I will be stepping onto the field as a survivor.  Last year, was so long of a year.  And Giants baseball helped me through. Myself and another Giants fan who went through treatment last year, relied on our team to get us through the longest summer.  And the championship means something else to us.

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The links above are to the very first Cancer Support Community Hope Walk in Heather Farms.  This is a fundraising event to contribute to the nonprofit organization that provides entirely FREE services.  I will post more information next week as part of my THREE WEEK fundraising drive.  I will be stopping by different work locations and call on people for their spare "Change for Cancer" awareness.

I hope that readers share this link and encourage others to join in this walk event in Walnut Creek on May 16, 2015.  Its a Saturday morning and its a great way to participate and get some exercise.

So many people's lives are touched by cancer.  This is a small way to do something of support. Its easy to walk on a Saturday morning.  Its easier to contact me and donate any amount to contribute to the Cancer Support Community. 

I will be providing prizes such as Team Sosa T Shirts, pink bracelets, and raffling off Giants tickets, as part of this THREE WEEK fundraiser push.  I will sell cookies, too!

I need your help to contribute in any way.  Please share this blog and contact me or check out the links to the Cancer Support Community.  Come walk with me for $25. Bring your friends, family, and dogs, out to Heather Farms.

For example, $25 donation provides two weeks of services for anyone. 

Love, Sosa

 

April 19, 2015

 

Me and my parents at Fresno State Softball

Cancer Awareness Weekend

GO TEAM SOSA

 



We wore our Team Sosa shirts as part of the weekend's activities.  Louisville Slugger also gave away mini pink bats, similar to the one I received from Team Sosa last year.  There were lots of survivors out at the field this weekend, wearing lots of pink.

The community at Fresno State Softball has offered me support in many ways since last year.  From the parents, to the team, and from the fans that I have known all my life, there is new meaning to coming home.  I am very grateful to participate this season, after I missed last year. 

Thanks to Team Sosa, I am a finalist with the MLB Honorary Batgirl and I will find out this week if I won.  I appreciate everyone who took the time to vote, and everyone who spread the word within their communities to vote for me.  I also hope you took the time to read and vote for the stories of the other nominees who are cancer survivors like me.

April 12, 2015

Hello there and welcome back.

Just a quick note for your week ahead, about the note above. 

I like posting short images I find online because they resonate with me and I hope they resonate with you, too.

Remember,

It takes courage to face everyday challenges, whether its a new job or life changing decisions.  It takes strength to follow through with the decisions you make. It takes patience to listen and try to understand why people think the way the do, or say the things they say.  And it takes love to forgive.

When you go to sleep, and when you wake up, that's the best time to say it's time to try again.  Because if you live in the past, you are wasting time and energy you don't have anymore. 

I know I start over every day.

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I hope you are continuing to vote for me to be the MLB SF Giants Batgirl on Mother's Day.  This is the last week to vote and you can vote multiple times a day.

Click here for the site and go to the Giants page.  Scroll through to the picture of me and Team Sosa.  Click on my picture and you can type in numbers to vote.  Check out the stories of cancer survivors from all of the teams.

http://mlb.mlb.com/honorarybatgirl/2015/gallery.jsp

So many people have told me they continue to vote daily... Thank You.

April 5, 2015  Happy Easter

Today is an important day for renewal for most people I know.  It comes in the form of Resurrection, or returning to Church.  For some people, its spring break, or spring cleaning.  And for others, its the time of year when baseball returns.

I find a similarity to those who use the spring for a new start.  Cleaning, reorganizing, mentally preparing for the next few months.  Not surprisingly, I am on board with those who are ready for the return of baseball.  Its been a long off season.

But, I have to acknowledge those who believe in renewal, whether or not it has religious basis.  I understand the importance of suffering and recovery.  Taking the time in the spring to reevaluate, by giving up something for Lent, or thinking about the importance of penance, are parts of the Easter season. Then Easter Sunday comes and most people believe in a fresh start.

This concept is not lost on those who are not religious.  Its important to validate those who consider their struggles and decide to push through.  This doesn't have to happen only in the spring.  This doesn't have to happen each time something bad happens. This doesn't have to happen when the really bad thing happens.  Don't wait for the bad thing to happen to reevaluate.  Don't wait for it to happen to the people you love, or to yourself.

Its okay to start over whenever you choose, with a positive attitude and forgiveness.  It isn't as hard as one might think.  It might be easier when you are faced with the bad thing.  But don't wait for that to happen.

Some of the best advice I have integrated into my life has to do with dealing with anger or sadness or loss.  Let the bad feeling pass through; give those emotions or thoughts a few minutes.  Then be done.  Let it go.  Start over.  Whatever is still happening is still happening. 

But only you can choose how to look at it.

Which may open your mind to another way to deal with it.

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Thank you all for continuing to vote for me to be the Giants batgirl. Please keep voting this week, then vote ten more times every day. Here is the link, go to the Giants team page and scroll through the pages for Team Sosa.

http://mlb.mlb.com/honorarybatgirl/2015/gallery.jsp

March 29, 2015

I hope you have been voting! The Honorary MLB batgirl contest continues for the next few weeks.  I appreciate everyone who is taking a few momemts out of their day to vote a few more times.

Here is the link again:
http://mlb.mlb.com/honorarybatgirl/2015/gallery.jsp

Go to the Giants Team page and scroll through the pages for Team Sosa.  Click on my picture and click on vote.  Type in the number, then do it again and again.

I found out a friend of a friend is a candidate for the Oakland Athletics Honorary batgirl, too.  The winner participates in the game ceremonies on Mother's Day.

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I saw some daffodils today and bought some bouquets. A year ago, a friend bought me some to wish me well and I kept buying them until the Easter season was over.  Last year at this time, I had left work to start treatment and seeing these flowers made me smile.  The American Cancer Society offers Daffodil Days as a popular fundraiser for cancer awareness, as a sign of hope and life.  This year's campaign is over, but here is a link to the program:

http://www.cancer.org/involved/participate/daffodildays

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I hope you all have a good week. Thank you again for all of the continued support.  I don't know how I would have made it through the past year without the support of everyone. 

Love, Sosa

 

 

March 22, 2015

 

 

I am taking this opportunity to share some news from TEAM SOSA.  I was at work one day last week when I received the call from DP to consent to the application to be an Honorary BatGirl with Major League Baseball.  She left me a voicemail and I did as I was told. Seriously...

 

I have posted the link on Facebook and Instagram, and many friends and family have voted multiple times a day.  I have sent out emails which have forwarded the link as well.  I smile when I think of the opportunity, and I am grateful to be around to participate in any way.  Last year, the entire baseball season carried me through the longest year.  Another friend who was diagnosed, who is also a big Giants fan, attended a game with me, and shares the passion.  Having the Giants win the World Series was an emotional experience made more so by the reality of the disease that could have taken that experience from us.

 

I am sharing what my friends wrote about me for the website, as well as the link to vote.  I hope you will take some time to vote, as well as read about the other nominees for the Giants and other teams: 

 

"Even though I have a history of Breast Cancer in my family, it didn't truly hit me until February 2014. A co-worker and amazing friend told me of her diagnosis - Stage IV Breast Cancer. I was in shock that a 37 year old, vibrant person who I knew so well, was diagnosed this severely. I also felt honored that she wanted to share this with me and 2 other co-workers in person at my house. From this point forward a game plan was set in place and has continued to move forward. The support from not only her friends but ALL of our co-workers as been amazing. But that's how Sosa is - Amazing. She has written a weekly blog to keep us informed as she goes though her treatments and life. She has been to many Breast Cancer Functions and has spoken to not only inform but inspire others. As you see by the picture below, her smiles continue to shine. No matter if it is during her chemo treatments, getting her head shaved, or attending softball games at Fresno State and San Francisco Giants Baseball Games - Her Smile is As Big As The Sun. Sosa knows that this will be a lifelong commitment but that's "Our Sosa" - fully committed to everything she does until the end."



 

 

Click the link below and search by team: Giants, then scroll through the pages for TEAM SOSA.  There is a picture of me from the second week of chemo, and I am wearing my Giants gear. Click on my picture to vote.  You will be given a number to type in, and there you go.  No registration needed.

 

http://mlb.mlb.com/honorarybatgirl/2015/gallery.jsp


Love, Sosa

March 15, 2015

Hello Everyone,

I spent the weekend with friends and family back home watching softball.  Because 90 degrees in March is just normal.

I was lucky enough to have a conversation with another cancer survivor who is my age.  While her type of cancer and subsequent treatment was different, being able to have the conversation is a reminder of the struggle to survive.  Many people will offer welcome and support, however, the people who have gone through treatment, like chemotherapy and radiation, are the only ones who went through treatment itself.  Survivors share a common, painful, and real understanding of what it requires of someone to live through what we live through.

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Just a few things for people to have a better understanding of breast cancer and breast cancer treatment options:

I have been approached by many who may not understand why my breast cancer diagnosis did not require a mastectomy or breast removal.

When breast cancer is caught early, through mammograms or additional testing, minimal surgery can be recommended to remove the cancer and margins surrounding the area.  Chemo, along with radiation is a common treatment for women, to ensure the best chances for cancer not to recur.

When breast cancer has been discovered, and it has metastisized or progressed out of the breast and into the lymph nodes, surgery is also sometimes recommended to keep the spreading of cancer throughout the body.  Chemo and radiation also usually follow, as the best way to treat cancer in the body.

And then there is me.  My breast cancer started with a large tumor that metastisized to my lymph nodes, and progressed throughout my body, to my bones.  Women with Metastatic Breast Cancer are also sometimes referred to as Stage IV or V.

Unlike patients who have been diagnosed early, surgery is not an option to treat my cancer.  What that means is the cancer cannot be cut out of my body without cutting all the other places where the cancer has spread.  I will live with cancer and be treated for the rest of my life.  I have accepted my disease and I continue to live because I can.  At some point, I will try different medicines and face chemotherapy again. 

But, I am not dying. I feel pretty much normal with my medicines. I'm sore a few more days than I used to be, like after a night of dancing.  As long as research continues to develop, I should have many more years to do what I have always wanted to do, travel wherever, and live and love, as if I did not have a shorter life.  I appreciate everyone who joins me in this understanding of my cancer. 

Patients who have their breast cancer found early, can eliminate the cancer with minor or major surgery, and very likely prevent it from recurring elsewhere.  The development of newer drugs and better chemotherapies has resulted in survivors on a greater scale then ever before.  Continue to get the early screenings, especially if you have a family member with a breast or ovarian cancer diagnosis.  Consider genetic testing and understand your chances of developing cancer in your lifetime.

If there is someone with cancer that may benefit from this blog, please share it with them.  I am available for support for the loved one or for the ones who love.

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If you are participating in cancer awareness walks, please let me know because I would like to join your team.