June 15, 2014                 Cycle 4

So its been almost four months since my diagnosis, and this is where we are.  I have endured four cycles of chemotherapy, lost my hair, and am facing life changing decisions on a weekly basis.  Those include medical choices and personal choices, which are not going to get any easier.

After chemotherapy this week, I am faced with more fatigue than I have faced before.  I still deal with heartburn and hives and pain, and I did my best to manage my medical needs over the weekend.  I am very glad it was cooler outside this weekend.  It also helped to have US Open golf and baseball to keep me distracted.  Happy Father's Day to everyone, too.

This week, I was lucky not to get kicked out of chemo, despite my badged escorts. We always have a good time; just a little louder than most..... I am blessed to have friends who remind me that I am loved, and I have support, no matter what.  Some of my visitors interrupted my naps, or just took a nap at the same time as me.  My friends keep me occupied with games on the phone, like dominoes and words with friends.  I am glad they don't mind my late night turns.

In my department, I am losing some valuable colleagues.  It is good to hear people are moving on with retirement decisions, but also that my younger friends are looking into life insurance and disability options.  Since becoming sick,  I have expressed my concern for others in my workplace, and that includes making sure people have options if they become sick or injured on the job.  If you have no disability insurance, call someone and set it up.

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Thank you, everyone, for checking in this week, via text or email.  I appreciate the prayers and well wishes every day.  I take time to listen to your messages and accept your angels.  It doesn't matter if you check in once a week or once a month, I am lucky to have support in every way possible.

For those of you who work with me, there is a luncheon at the main office on Wednesday, June 18.  It is a TEAMSOSA fundraiser and I plan to attend. Its $10 at the door, and its BBQ style.

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Love,
Sosa

June 8, 2014                                     Another Week of Feeling Better

Hello Everyone, and Welcome Back.....

As promised, I will continue to check in with you with a blog posting on Sunday.  If there is anything you want to ask, please post a comment, or send me an email at heysosateamsosa@gmail.com.

This was another week of "feeling better."  This refers to the third week after my last chemotherapy cycle, or the week before my next chemotherapy cycle.  I felt strong this week when I took a couple of long walks.  I made it through a trip home in the 100 degree heat, and handled it without any major health issues.  I saw my niece graduate as a valedictorian, and spent time with close friends and family back home.

Today, my parents and some special friends joined me at the Wings of Hope Butterfly Release and Cancer Survivors Picnic in San Ramon.  We released five butterflies, and enjoyed a sunny day at the park.  It was a good time spent playing with bubbles and having fun with the kids.

I ended my weekend in Sausalito, overlooking the San Francisco Bay.  I enjoyed dinner with friends, and conversation with some great minds, even after the wine started to flow. 
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"Feeling better" refers to the time when I am strongest after chemotherapy.  The third week is when I feel most normal, and have the strength to do all of these activities.  The down side is the next cycle will reverse that feeling.  I go on Wednesday for Cycle 4, and hope to adjust to the treatment favorably over the week afterwards.  Besides exhaustion and hives, I now accept heartburn as a not so fun side effect.  I have never had heartburn before in my life, so this incredible pain is something of a challenge.  As always, I have faith in the medicines to work with my body and make it easier for me to get through the necessary challenges of each day.

Thank you all for checking in when you do.  Whether its a text, or email, or comment, I go back to your messages and prayers more often.  This journey got a little steeper with this last chemotherapy cycle.  It will continue to get more difficult as the weeks go on.  I do my best to stay strong through the pain and stress.  My best comes from my support through Team Sosa. 

Love,
Andrea

 

June 1, 2014

Greetings from a Blessed and Busy Week

 

 

Hi there and welcome back.  Thank you for continuing to read and comment or email or message.  All of your support on a daily basis keeps me focused on what's important.  I appreciate the concern for my health and personal needs.  I chose early in this battle not to be stubborn, no matter how briefly tempting it was to do this alone.  What's important is the value of friendships and family as the struggle continues on for as long as it will be.

 

 

This week, I spent two big days at three Bay Area sports venues.  On Wednesday, I went to San Francisco and watched the Giants defeat the Cubs. Then off to Oakland and saw the A's defeat the Tigers, in walk off fashion, of course.  That was a big day and crazier night, where I learned a new game, and stayed up way too late.  On Sunday, I went to Golden Gate Fields to watch the horse races for the first time.  I was reminded of my mother and her memories of the horse and dog tracks in the 1950s.  The weather was great this week, and I am glad I was able to physically handle the demands of the big days. 

 

 

This week, I was blessed with special gifts from my work community.  In place of a greeting card, my friends gave me a  personalized pink Louisville Slugger bat, signed by my coworkers.  I was also given an MLB baseball, with pink laces for breast cancer awareness.  These are so special to me, because my work family recognizes my love of the game.  It is a fitting gift, and I am very lucky.

 

 

This week, I was humbled with the generosity of my support community.  This is not a journey I chose to be on, and I continue to be amazed by the paths I walk upon.  My work community has volunteered to support me with messages and love, and through significant fundraising.  I wish every day I was never in a position to call on others for help.  However, knowing the support is there, gives me some peace, alleviates some of the pressure, and will provide me with continued strength as I continue travelling uphill, for the months and years to come. THANK YOU TEAMSOSA.

 

As for my health, I am doing as well as I can.  Hives are not fun, especially when trying to color someone's hair... I have stayed hydrated with my extra activities, and made sure to rest as often as I can be comfortable enough to do so.  One more week of feeling "normal" before doing it all over again....

 

Next week, I plan to go home for my niece's graduation and see the family and visit with some loved ones.  My support from Madera and Fresno comes from the place I have known all my life.  Just as it is important for my Bay area family to see my face, I hope to get some hugs from my Central Valley family. 

 

Lastly, on June 8 in San Ramon, is the Celebration at the Ranch honoring cancer survivors and their families.  I will participate in the butterfly release just before 11 am, honoring the women in my family.  My parents and friends have agreed to come and I hope to see more of you there, too.  You can RSVP to me if you want lunch, or just to let me know you might be stopping by.  It should be a nice day just to lay around and visit, or enjoy some of the activites offered by the events.  

 

Thank you all, every day, for coming back and viewing the blog.  You can always email me here at heysosateamsosa@gmail.com if you have questions, or you want to talk, or would like me to address something in the blog.   

 

Love, Andrea

 

 

 

 

 

 

May 23, 2014   Cycle Three

 



Hello Everyone and Welcome Back,

I am really glad that you returned to read the blog and check up on how it's going.  The blog has nearly 5,000 views, which is amazing.  I may not be working right now, but I take pride in being responsible to everyone who wants to know what's up with me. 

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That's me in the picture, at chemotherapy this past Wednesday.  My friend came with me and kept me company to pass the time sitting in the chair for about three hours.  It really helps to have the company and I am very appreciative of those who will accept that role. And I will spring for lunch!
FYI, there were a few people who were there already when I arrived, and were still there when I left.  Helps keep things in perspective... 

The end of May marks the end of two months of chemotherapy.  I have four more months scheduled of these treatments, once every three weeks.  Provided we have no reason to stop, we will see what decisions are to be made around the end of October.
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So ,this week after chemotherapy has been a bit rough.  Each cycle has been more difficult than the last.  I am more tired than the last cycle, and my body is not putting up with any extra activity.  Lots of fluids and remembering to eat have helped me maintain as best I can.  I am grateful for powering through it without nausea, and I realize that could happen anytime.

A funny side effect is different taste buds.  The best way to explain it is the feeling one's tongue has after eating sunflower seeds. Like, a LOT of sunflower seeds.  Chemo affects my taste buds buy nearly eliminating my ability to taste altogether for a few days.  Because its unappealing, I don't have a "taste" for food for a few days.  Its not like I want to eat spicy food or anything, I just can't really enjoy the taste of the food I am eating. Eventually it wears off, but its not fun.

Some good things this week included lunches with friends and a few visits and phone calls. I am so grateful for my friends who make me laugh.  I received some great pictures of a new member of my work family (Welcome Delaney!). I made it out of the house to do some errands and use some free coupons.  My friend and I were very lucky with an anonymous free lunch while out in Walnut Creek. We don't know who it was, but our lunch was paid for, and we are truly grateful.   I am always fortunate to have friends who will let me come to their houses and do laundry and watch Hallmark movies and hang out with their doggies. 
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This week, I get to go to the ballpark and watch the Giants play.  Its my first game of the year and I am looking forward to some baseball and sunshine and time with friends.  Hoping to catch the A's game too....

All my love,
Sosa


Just a reminder about the June 8th event in San Ramon.  My parents and I will be there for the butterfly release, and wearing my Team Sosa Tshirt.  Everyone is welcome, and you can RSVP directly to me if you want a free lunch.  Its a picnic so I will bring some blankets and some dominoes.....  This might be a great opportunity for a "company picnic/get together"......

 

May 18, 2014

 

 

 

What a week for me and for Team Sosa!

 



This photo is from a few weeks ago.  I was trying out the sunglasses and scarf thing and I had to double check with my friends to make sure I did it right....
Since shaving my head about three weeks ago, I have experimented with different looks and hats and scarves to see what feels good and looks right.  I find myself beginning a collection of headwear.  And, those who know me, realize I can quickly accumulate items such as shoes and purses, especially when I find something I like.  Uh oh.....

The summer weather makes it easier to go without a head covering at home, but I have to avoid  the outdoors and too much direct heat on my head during chemotherapy.  That includes pool time, which is one of my favorite things in the world.
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My next cycle of chemotherapy is this week and I am preparing for another week of side effects like exhaustion and pain.  I have been powering through them and that is the plan.  This week, I experienced a delayed allergic reaction/side effect to the treatment: hives.  Side effects can occur anytime, and while most happen right away, some are delayed by a few days or weeks.  I have never had hives in my life, and this was definitely something new.  My oncologists gave me medication and my symptoms were relieved quickly.  I looked into forums and online posts, as well as consulted with my mentors/survivors.  Hives and rashes can happen and the delayed side effect can happen two weeks after the treatment day. If you recall, my hair loss started two weeks after my first treament....I hope this is the only time this happens, because it was miserable!

Yet, I must not be selfish and I must keep things in perspective.  Just like the different levels of pain I have experienced so far, there will be different levels of side effects.  I am grateful for medicine and for my body's cooperative reaction with treatment.  This was another bridge to cross, and I was able to get through it. 

I use that attitude to get through the days when I am tired. And to get through the days I wish I could exercise or be more active.  I find myself frustrated with not doing as much daily as I have in the past.  So, this week, I took a long walk and mild exercise.  I usually do a yoga class during the week but my hives prevented that.  It was nice to get out and see how far I could go without being too tired.  It was also good to know my limits, because my body was not sore afterwards, but I was tired, which I think I earned.  While my mind wants to run around the block a few times, my body reminds me that is not a good idea....

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TEAM SOSA did a fundraiser luncheon at work that went very well!! If you have Facebook, you may have seen pictures posted by my work family.  There were approximately 100 people who came out to show support.  There was lots of homemade food created with love by Team Sosa.  These fabulous people wore their Tshirts and coordinated a lovely luncheon in a hot gym and shared good times with people I have worked with, and grown with, over the past 15 years.  I was unable to attend, but I was visited by friends afterwards who brought food and shared the fun times had by all. Including naps on the floor.... The event was supposed to be a surprise, but you know how that is..... 

I am truly grateful for anything that brings my work family together in a positive manner.  Seeing those smiles makes my day, every day.  THANK YOU.
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Occasionally, I get questions about if chemotherapy is working, and "when do we know if you are all better?"  The plan is to continue with chemotherapy for four more months and reevaluate.  While I have reacted well enough to the treament and the side effects, the actual medicine works over time.  It will take time for my cancer to diminish, and we will know more further down the line.  It is important to put faith in God or medicine or oneself.  Results manifest through faith.

I hope you understand that I can meet or talk or answer questions if you think things are worse than they are.  For quite a few people, they need to see my face or hear my voice.  Just let me know.

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Before I sign off, please take look at the post from May 11, Mother's Day.  I posted information about a FREE event in San Ramon on June 8.  I will be there and I invite everyone to attend.  Spend a few hours at the park or stop by and say hello.  This event acknowledges survivors of cancer and I think it will be a great day at the park.  Lunch is free but you must RSVP to eat, and you can purchase butterflies for release if you want.  The groups that sponsor the event work around the Bay Area in cancer research, treatment, and community support.

Love to you all,
Andrea

 

May 11, 2014

Happy Mother's Day

 

 

Hello Everyone,

 

Welcome back and thank you for coming back. It has been a good week of gaining more energy so I can spend time with friends and family.  I was able to do both when I travelled to Reno and watched the last games of the season for Fresno State softball.

 

And I must acknowledge everyone who checked in with me and sent messages and love my way.  This week, my union presented me with a lovely gift and I was able to see coworkers, and let them see me.

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Many of you have asked about the Team Sosa Tshirts. The picture at the top of the blog today is the Tshirt design for Team Sosa.  My dear friends at work made the design and will be placing another order very soon.  Please email me here at heysosateamsosa@gmail.com and I can refer you to those placing the order.

 

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Below is an event on Sunday, June 8, in San Ramon.

It is a FREE event, lunch included, for cancer survivors and their families.

 



I will be attending the event and I am inviting my friends and family to join me.  It will be picnic style, so bring your blankets and chairs or games and enjoy a day at the park with me.  LUNCH IS FREE BUT YOU MUST RSVP.
You may purchase a butterfly (or more than one) for a ceremonial release at the picnic.   You can call 925-933-0107, or,
Here is the link: http://cancersupport.net/events/wings-of-hope-butterfly-release/

Hope to see you there!
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It is Mother's Day weekend, and I spent some time with my parents this weekend.  We watched softball and spent time with friends.  We are glad to see each other when we can, and I know they are always there if I need them.

I hope to spend the next week gaining more energy and strength to get ready for the next cycle.  And work on a project or two.  Hope you all have a lovely week and I will post again next Sunday.

Please email me if you have questions or just want to check in.
Thank you all, every day, for your support.

Love, Sosa

May 4, 2014

May the Fourth Be With You

 

 

Welcome Back Friends and Family,

 

Thank you to everyone who has checked in or messaged me this week.  It means so much to me to hear your support.  It's great to hear about life outside this cancer world.  Sometimes, its the interesting stories from work, or its the general comedy that is our children and friends.  This week, its a silly pink mustache on an old friend, a picture of a another beautiful bald breast cancer survivor, and flowers from Utah. And, as always, its the regular conversation about baseball, the Kentucky Derby, basketball playoffs, and college softball. 

 

On Wednesday, I had Cycle 2 of my first (and hopefully, only, single Round) of chemotherapy. I was accompanied by two of my favorite funny ladies, who made the time fly by.  My side effects have been manageable, mostly fatigue and lightheadedness. My body is responding well to the medications, and I am listening to my body when it tells me to rest.

 

Its been one month since the treatment plan began and I still have five months to go.  That means Cycles every three weeks, and I can only hope each Cycle continues to work on destroying the cancer in my body.

 

This week, I experienced significant hair loss, and shaved my head.  As I said in the last blog post, my hair loss was significant and continued to progress rapidly.  I had discussed the issue with my friends and I was growing more frustrated with losing hair all day long.  On Saturday, after measuring my growing frustration, I made the decision and called a local barber shop. 

 

While it was stressful, two of my friends joined me and made it a lot easier.  I was already feeling overwhelmed from chemotherapy.  But it had to be done.  It is about being empowered, and about feeling better during the hardest times.

 

I do not want anyone to shave their head "in solidarity." I have plenty of friends who are already bald and beautiful.  This week, the "Team Sosa" shirts began delivery, and I am asking for photos of my supporters with their shirts.  I feel the support and appreciation every day in so many ways, and I am truly blessed and grateful.

 

Love you,

Sosa