October 5, 2014

 

 

Welcome,

 

Its the MLB Postseason....This week, I spent some very long, long days rooting on the A's and Giants.  The Wild Card games began a week of playoff baseball, including many "free" extra innings.  I was not as physically exhausted, as  emotionally exhausted.  But Giants fans are used to it.  Many thanks to all those who joined me in watching games; I appreciate those who understand this "Gamer Babe." Thanks, Mom and Dad.

 

Many of you may have noticed more pink around the stores this week, so thank you for purchasing products that contribute to breast cancer research.  The NFL home teams supported fundraising with pink on uniforms, signage, and ribbons.  Each team had a large group of survivors stand on the field to demonstrate for the cause.  Thanks for the pictures from Levi's Stadium.

 

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It was good this week to feel a little more normal and gain more strength and energy.  During chemotherapy treatment, there was no way I could have walked very far, never mind more than once a week.  It was difficult to enjoy things I usually enjoyed, like spending time with friends, because of my lack of energy and pain level.  I am a little over two months out of chemotherapy, and its great to feel stronger. My pain level is very slowly reducing, and I hope it will be more manageable by the time I return to work.  It was surprising to be able to walk a little faster, but I can only credit my inspirational company. I am adjusting to current cancer medication, aid I can only believe it will continue to work so I can live a long life. I agree with those who observe me stronger, and more like myself.  It was a very long summer, but it was not a "brain transplant."  Among many lessons, this journey has made me "better, but not broken."

 

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I just want to acknowledge some fellow survivors who are still fighting the fight with me.  Some are in chemo, and some are receiving radiation.  The side effects are sometimes seemingly unsurmountable, and unable to be ignored.  Its the bruises and scars that are signs of battle and strength. Conquering the emotional fears are courageous uphill battles that may take years to overcome. Rely on your support system, and ask for help. 

 

Breast cancer research has developed medicine so women like me can live longer and survive. I can only hope that research will continue to develop so my friends with leukemia and lymphoma can receive bone marrow transplants in the next few months.  I can only hope that the recently diagnosed can benefit from better medicine and more accurate therapies to sustain good quality of life.  And those with returning cancers are receiving better care since their first time around. 

 

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Have a good week,

Sosa



 

September 28, 2014

 

Hello everyone and thank you for coming back every week.

 

This week begins another October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. There will be lots of pink everywhere, on products sold in stores, and on pink ribbons worn by millions. Professional athletes will wear items with pink as another way to advocate for awareness.

 

Over the past years, October has always been special to those, including myself, who are close to those who have battled breast cancer.  I remember a time when two friends were bonded because their mothers were diagnosed and treated the same year. When I was diagnosed, I took a look around and found all the small pink items I had collected over the years. 

 

October will be a little different this year.  That inundation of pink that always comes around in the fall means a bit more.  While some argue how much money is actually contributed, the truth is each purchase contributes something towards breast cancer awareness and research. In fact, I feel the medicine I was fortunate to receive, and continue to receive is a result of development funded by dedicated efforts to fundraise and bring the reality of breast cancer to those who may not otherwise understand. 

 

Awareness is about education.  Paying attention to family history and a variety of risk factors will provide information to those who may never considered themselves a candidate for this disease. Opening up a dialogue with friends, family, and medical professionals will bring awareness about cancer.

 

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer.  One in eight.  Look around you today. Do the math.

 

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Yesterday, I was lucky to spend time with coworkers and catch up with some who I have not seen in awhile. It is great to hear from those who read the blog and are not afraid to ask questions or share stories. It makes me happy to know I am part of your Monday morning routine.  Reading the blog may be the only way some know how to check in with me, and that is a big reason why I write to you every week. 

 

 

 

Love, Sosa

 

 

September 21, 2014

Thank you again for returning to the blog and checking in with me during the week.  I appreciate all of the love and support every day.

Living close to work means I often run into coworkers and friends in the area.  Its always fun to catch up with people, even if only briefly.  Its hard to believe I have not seen some of my coworkers or friends since I gave them the news in March. While I may not have seen some people in person, I am fortunate that social media and technology allows us to communicate and keep updated.

This week, I started another infusion drug, which along with supplements, will help strengthen my body against cancer.  Most women need extra vitamins as we get older, and I get some help, because of the way cancer has weakened my body.  The side effects are rough for a couple days, which is to be expected.  It could also be considered another weapon in my battle.

I am glad to be strong enough to contribute to the planning of my job's upcoming picnic, which will be another opportunity to spend time with friends from work.  I am also thankful to be able to drive to the city to see my parents and friends, and watch football there.  Its always fun to cheer with the crazies and root for the kids.

While it isn't always easy, I keep trying to build strength and adjusting to the new normal.  I can only hope that my story can help those who are also adjusting to cancer.  I am grateful to those in my support groups and the contacts I have made, all who have shared their stories with me.  My journey is difficult, but nothing compared to the struggles of children, or the challenges adults face.  These friends of mine keep me in perspective, because my road could be much harder to travel one day.

Love, Sosa

 

September 14, 2014

Hello everyone and thank you for coming back...

Thank you to everyone who takes some time Sunday night or Monday morning, every week, to check in and read what I have to say about this experience.  Thank you to those who share this blog with others, or share on Facebook, because you think it can help someone you love.  Sometimes, it helps those who have breast cancer, but this blog is also meant to help those who love the women who have breast cancer. 

Thank you to those who take the time to talk to their family members and open a discussion on how breast cancer may affect the family in the future.  Thank you to the women who have decided to pursue early detection, such as mammograms or genetic testing.  Thank you to everyone who took the time to look at websites with information on breast cancer and breast cancer treatment.  It means so much that you did research or just asked me questions.  Some people never know enough until it is too late, so those efforts may actually save someone's life.

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I am always fortunate to hear from everyone who checks in to see how things are going.  I often communicate or meet with friends, because its important for me to get out, and for people to see how I am doing.  Cancer has not restricted me from going to movies or attending football games.  Its important to continue to enjoy everything that I always have. 

Having breast cancer is a part of my life, but is not my whole life.  However, I felt like it was, as I accepted the new reality that started in February of this year.  I am still reminded hourly that something "life changing" has happened.  I am reminded every time I look in the mirror, or open the medicine cabinet.  But "life changing" does not mean "life ending."  I will continue some form of treatment throughout my life, such as a daily pill or monthly infusion.  The medicine has improved to allow me to function as normally as I ever did, just in a different gear.  Before I return to work full time, I will continue to take the necessary time off to adjust to new medications and build strength. 

Living is possible. Life is what you make of it. 

Love to all,
Sosa

September 7, 2014

 

 

It's actually September.  The year has gone by so fast. Some days have been longer than others, but its all about how you spend your time.

 

I spent this week as usual, attending yoga and support with the Cancer Support Community.  Watching baseball and waiting on football to start has helped the past few months go by.  Good TV and bad TV always helps, as we all wait for the Fall shows, and the final season of SOA.  It always helps to hear from friends with the phone calls and texts. 

 

I am getting more energy to get more done on my to-do list, which was not easy during chemotherapy.  I am walking more often, and finding it is less difficult each time.  Unfortunately, what will continue to happen for a few months is the muscle stiffness as my body adjusts after chemo.  I told my friends, I will get there, just a little slower...

 

My friends were nice enough this week to include me for some doggie quality time, which is wholly therapeutic.  If my apartment was bigger, I would have a dog or two or three. But I must settle for visits and pictures and Facebook posts.

 

Football has also started, so its time to root for the Dogs, the Rams, and #81.

 

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As I have said before, this diagnosis, this journey, has connected me with so many.  Friends have shown unbelievable support.  Past friends have reconnected, and shared prayers and hope.  I have learned how breast cancer has affected many of the women in my life, and the lives of friends and families.  I am fortunate to hear the stories of survival and tributes to those lost.  Answering questions for some, but just being able to listen to others, has given me the opportunity to find perspective on how to continue to fight.

 

I was reminded by my cousin about my aunt and godmother, who was diagnosed with breast cancer, and lived for many years after surgery and treatment.  We were both too young to remember her being sick, but even if she was, I don't think she would have shown it.  My cousin reminded me that she was up and moving within a year, and was never one to cause worry for her loved ones.  He said I am like her in that way.

 

I spoke with another survivor who reminded me of "moving forward," despite cancer, as it continues to be a part of my life, for the rest of my life. As my treatment continues, I will carry my cancer with me in a fancy purse, because I only have fancy purses.... Anyone can choose to let cancer or any disease, or any struggle, defeat you.  It will kill you if you allow it.  Living with breast cancer, living with difficult treatment, and accepting its reality, is the path I am on.  There is no reason I cannot work, or travel, or enjoy life, as I did before.  Just make adjustments, cause we got stuff to do.

 

Love, Sosa

 

August 31, 2014

Hello Everyone! Hope your Labor Day weekend is filled with good weather and no traffic.  Its been warm in the Bay Area, and the breeze is welcome. Let's hope the heat in the Central Valley reminds certain parents of mine to leave the yardwork for when its cooler....

I am continuing to walk as much as possible.  My muscles are going to have trouble adjusting for a few months, and I am doing the best I can to stretch and be active.  According to my friends, I am still walking on a good pace.

This week, I was lucky to spend time with many of my friends. I saw my godson, and he will be taller than me soon.  I received cards, and a surprise care package from a college friend. There were dinners, and surprise meetings on the side of the road or parking lots. I ate some good food, including homemade chicken pot pies. And, I was able to see some doggies.

On Thursday, I went to the Giants game with another breast cancer survivor.  She is my age, and we went through chemotherapy around the same time.  We are both Gamer babes, and we enjoyed great seats and sunny weather.  Turns out there were quite a few friends at the game as well.

Thank you all for continuing to check in, play games, send pictures, or send messages.  I appreciate hearing how everyone is doing, and what's new in your world.  The picture on the blog says "Live."  Do something this week that reminds you to do so: Live.

Love, Sosa

P.S.
If any of you are BRCA1 or BRCA2, or know someone who is, there is an observational study being conducted by UCSF.  You are compensated, and it requires minimal participation (twice a year). The link has the contact information to call or email.
Here is the link: http://www.cancer.gov/clinicaltrials/search/view?cdrid=754972&version=HealthProfessional

August 24, 2014

Hello Friends,

 

Did you survive the earthquake? I jumped out of bed and stood in the doorway.  It was definitely a roller.  And if you want to know what's really going on, check Facebook for the news updates.

 

I am grateful for everyone's support as my chemotherapy has ended.  It has been one month since my last infusion.  What has happened since is my body's adjustment to the medicine leaving my body.  While I have more energy, I find I do not have as much strength.  During chemotherapy, I experienced extensive bone pain during the week after infusion.  Now, my muscles are incredibly sore most of the time, even after sleeping or sitting.  Which is odd, if you aren't running the ten miles like you feel you have.  What is good is that I am walking more often, which I enjoy.  I continue to practice yoga, which is a great way to stretch out and focus energy in one's body.

 

The poison that has been in my body will take months to leave.  In fact, the best sign is when my hair grows back.  That will happen in four to six months, and that is the most obvious sign that my body has recovered from the most "ironic" way to treat cancer.  The drugs had to destroy so much of my system, thus destroying the cancer. But, I choose to do what it takes to survive.

 

In fact, another survivor pointed out to me that each day after diagnosis, is a day of survivorship.  Accepting the diagnosis and the treatment options, whatever they may be, means making choices to survive.  Every day you choose to live and fight, is a day when you choose not to let cancer win.  Some people consider landmarks, like five or ten years of being cancer free, as a survivor.  Some people say if you survived treatment, such as chemo, then, you are a survivor.

 

I think anyone who continues to move forward is a survivor. Whether its through early detection or trusting in treatment, deciding to put faith in the medicine is a choice to survive.  Regardless of the severity of the treatment or the extent of the disease, if you choose to keep living, then you are a SURVIVOR.

 

Keep your spirit positive and keep appreciating what's good in life.  

 

Love, Sosa