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TeamIHadCancer
TeamIHadCancer
Survivor: Breast Cancer (Stage II)
Get and/or give support
New York City, NY
Female
About Me
My Journal
I am a Survivor
Type of Cancer
Breast Cancer (Stage II), 2008
Treatment Information
Stage of Treatment:

Finished treatment 5 or more years ago

Treatment Types:

Acupuncture

Escozul

Hospital:

Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (New York City)

Side Effect:

Chemobrain

Discussions (11)
Advice & Inspiration
What word do you prefer to use in describing your relationship with cancer?
November 3rd, 2017
comment (11)
Tests & Treatments
Radiation for alleviating pain?
August 7th, 2017
comment (1)
Stories by TeamIHadCancer (116)
Weekly Roundup 1/25/2016
January 25th, 2016

Hi Guys! 

In case you've missed out on what’s been going on at I Had Cancer, here is a quick recap. Please reach out to us if you have any questions, comments or requests for our team!

Recent Blog Posts (please email emily@ihadcancer.com to learn more)


Recent Dear Cancer Messages (What do you have to say to cancer? Let it out.)

  • I wish you hadn’t brought so much pain and loneliness into our lives; I wish you hadn’t made my mom suffer so horribly; I wish she never met you. However, you did not win; you did not break her spirit and even if she will be leaving us soon, she still is and always will be a wonderful mom, loyal friend and awesome woman and I am so very grateful for finally understanding that.. (click here to comment)

  • I will be two years cancer free as of May 12th! I was diagnosed with stage four RCC (renal cell carcinoma) kidney cancer, mine is extremely rare in that the cancer has only been found in a lymph node attached to my thyroid. I had a partial thyroidectomy, and I haven't had to be on any thyroid treatment other than calcium And vitamin d supplements! As of yet, no signs of cancer in my kidneys but I do go in for routine cat scans on my chest and pelvis and ultrasounds on my neck. I do have some lymph nodes and cysts that they are monitoring closely to see if any biopsies have to be done. I've had a few biopsies and a very painful biopsy of my uterus lining and all of that to check for cancer there. I'm so thankful that none has been found. I am currently separated from my husband of ten years, I have been a military wife for all my married life. My mom and sisters are been my support system now, and my two beautiful children are my light and reasons to smile (click here to comment)  

  • You really do not want to know how much I hate U! you took away the desire for me & my husbands sex life!!! WHY? (click here to comment)

Recent Facebook posts (Don't forget to Like us on FB!)

  • "'Three years in remission from Stage 3 breast cancer! Double mastectomy, 16 chemo treatments and 28 radiation treatments later and proud to be a Survivor!' Here's to Beth!!" (I Had Cancer Facebook Page)

  • "'As a 28 y/o female, I was diagnosed with a very rare Ewing Sarcoma of the kidney. I was the 2nd case they've seen. My prognosis wasnt the best, but from day 1 my motto was "I GOT THIS". As a single mom of 4 young kiddos 3-8 years old, I knew I had to give this my all. 52 weeks of chemo. No radiation because the tumor was localized. The Chemo was going to be intense. And all inpatient in the hospital. I made it through 6 rounds. Much less then my original plan. My body was giving out, I was getting a ton of blood transfusions, platelets and my body got to the point where I couldn't walk because I was so weak. I kept passing out. We decided my body had enough. I had scans, and the scans came back clear. January 20, 2015 was my last day of chemo. This was the start to a new year. A year to continue fighting, regain my strength and begin looking towards the future. Feb. 10, 2015 I was released from the hospital. 6 months in and out of the hospital for surgerys and chemo. 6 months away from my 4 amazing, beautiful children so I could fight for my life so I could continue being there for them. Today marks 1 year. Cancer free. It hasnt been easy, but every second of every day I've fought for. I deserve every breath I take and am so thankful for every day. I'm healthy, happy and Cancer FREE!' What a story. Thank you for sharing, Kati. ‪#‎CancerFree‬‪#‎YoungAdultCancer‬" (I Had Cancer Facebook Page) 


Recent Discussion Questions (Ask anything you want on our discussion board.)

  • I believe the cancer may have been instigated by my having severe preeclampsia during my last pregnancy and my son being born with Coombs Disease-where my blood was attacking his blood. He had to be born via emergency c section and almost didn't make it five days after birth he had to be taken via ambulance to a town 2.5 hours away to the NICU there. He had very low white and red blood cells and low platelets. He grew stronger and was a fighter. My husband was deployed to Afghanistan at the time and did not meet him until our son was seven months old. It was very hard taking care of a newborn and my daughter by myself away from family and friends. I was wondering if anyone ever felt irritated or upset that family when family brings up cancer, either telling me about people they know who had cancer and died or going thru cancer diagnosis? I also have got upset, hurt when some of my family members talk about cancer in front of me like I'm not there...a few are in the medical field and they were talking about cancer research. I just feel like they should at least include me in the conversation since I've gone thru it...anyone have any advice on this? Ps...I found out I had cancer by going to a dr appointment for a swollen neck, shoulder and I was extremely weak and when I would pick up my son from his crib my face would go numb. I thought I was just really sick from a bad cold or something and had gone to the ER a few days prior and they sent me home with antibiotics! When I went to the dr appointment he immediately said that he thought I had an obstruction in my throat and since it was close to end of day sent me to ER and they did an X-ray and found that most of my airway was blocked by this lymph node. I was then taken via ambulance to a hospital 2.5 hours away. They didn't think it was cancer until they got the biopsy results. I'm apparently one of the only people with this scenario. Lol (click here to answer)
  • I was diagnosed with stage I, HER2 positive breast cancer in June of 2014. Had surgery, 6 rounds of chemo followed by 33 sessions of radiation and a year of herception. Currently taking exemestane for the next 5 years. Saw my new oncologist today (I moved last fall) and she found a lump in my other breast. Scheduled for a mammogram and ultrasound next week. My question is, is it possible to have a reoccurrence so soon after this aggressive treatment? Feeling very low and confused. (click here to answer) 

If you'd like to sign up for our monthly newsletter, scroll down to the bottom right hand side of the site and enter your email address! 
Thanks for all of your support.
 -The IHC Team

Comment (0)
Weekly Roundup 1/19/2016
January 19th, 2016

Hi Guys! 

In case you've missed out on what’s been going on at I Had Cancer, here is a quick recap. Please reach out to us if you have any questions, comments or requests for our team!

Recent Blog Posts (please email emily@ihadcancer.com to learn more)


Recent Dear Cancer Messages (What do you have to say to cancer? Let it out.)

  • it's been 2 years now and you have provided me with some interesting medical topics to discuss along with cancer diagnosis id never heard of. I'm getting tired of the cancer topic and wish you would leave but the doctor says you are here to stay. If that's the case then I'm not going to fight you anymore. (click here to comment)

  • That day I heard you, I wasn't afraid at all.You brought many things in my life. You changed my life. Because of you, I've known those people who really cares and those who doesn't. Thank you for being a part of my life. I know , I've conquered you. I'm a better person now and I'm determined to fulfill my dreams especially for my kids... (click here to comment)  


Recent Facebook posts (Don't forget to Like us on FB!)

  • "We know many cancer fighters love watching Harry Potter films to help get through treatment. Rest In Peace Alan Rickman.‪#‎cancersucks‬" (I Had Cancer Facebook Page)

  • "'Today marks my 11th year cancer-free (cervical cancer). I was 25 years old, with 1 child, and was told that she'd be my only child. I came to terms with that. She will graduate high school this year, go on to college, and be a successful woman. I get to be a part of all of this because I got (and still get) my yearly check-ups. Ladies, please don't forget or not go. It saved my life.' Thank you for sharing your story with us, Chrissy, & happy cancerversary. #CervicalCancerAwarenessMonth" (I Had Cancer Facebook Page) 


Recent Discussion Questions (Ask anything you want on our discussion board.)

  • I am feeling terribly hopeless right now. I've only had two treatments so far and as I learn more about outcomes I find myself asking 'What's the point'? I don't want to go through all of this to die at the end anyway. Struggling to find my hope and positivity which has been a HUGE part of my journey so far. (click here to answer)
  • I was diagnosed with stage I, HER2 positive breast cancer in June of 2014. Had surgery, 6 rounds of chemo followed by 33 sessions of radiation and a year of herception. Currently taking exemestane for the next 5 years. Saw my new oncologist today (I moved last fall) and she found a lump in my other breast. Scheduled for a mammogram and ultrasound next week. My question is, is it possible to have a reoccurrence so soon after this aggressive treatment? Feeling very low and confused. (click here to answer) 

If you'd like to sign up for our monthly newsletter, scroll down to the bottom right hand side of the site and enter your email address! 
Thanks for all of your support.
 -The IHC Team

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Weekly Roundup 1/11/2016
January 11th, 2016

Hi Everyone!

The news this morning has reported the death of singer David Bowie, who lost his battle with cancer after 18 months. We only wish that he may rest in peace.

In case you've missed out on what’s been going on at I Had Cancer, here is a quick recap. Please reach out to us if you have any questions, comments or requests for our team!

Recent Blog Posts (please email emily@ihadcancer.com to learn more)



  • Nobody Told Me I Was Going to Lose My Fertility At 28- 

    Receiving a cancer diagnosis as a young adult is a lot to take in. For Nicole, possibly losing her fertility and facing important decisions within such a short time frame was just another part she had to consider. Read more of her story below. 


Recent Dear Cancer Messages (What do you have to say to cancer? Let it out.)

  • "Dear Cancer, Wow why am I even giving you anymore of my time to write you this letter maybe it is because we have spent so much time together and you have taken so many ppl from me I lack the compassion I should have when someone tells me that oh did you hear about so and so they have cancer and are having bla bla treatments real NO fucking way I have cancer to ..... but you know this well fuck you cancer your not going to make me weak to your way" (click here to comment)

  • "Dear cancer..you are gone..out of my system..you came to pass..not to stay.. As i had my last labs ..my ca 125 is stable.. under .4..my next app. With hematologist oncologist is in 6 months..which will be my 5 yrs ..my freedom from you..Little by little am rebuilding my life..got a boyfriens..still working..so bye.see you never.." (click here to comment) 

Recent Facebook posts (Don't forget to Like us on FB!)

  • ""In 2007, I was diagnosed with an extraskeletal chondrosarcoma. The tumor was located in my pelvis/abdomen and it weighed 2.5 pounds. The tumor did not show any signs or symptoms. I happened to find the tumor while I was doing sit-ups at the gym and felt a lump on my stomach. After getting the diagnosis of the tumor, I had major surgery to have the tumor removed. After the tumor was removed, I went through several rounds of radiation treatment but I was fortunate enough to not have to endure chemotherapy. The tumor has not been an issue since it was removed. Since I went through cancer treatment, I have gotten involved with the Children's Cancer Association in Portland, Oregon and have been helping kids as they battle through cancer treatments. Getting diagnosed with cancer was the worst thing that has ever happened in my life but it has also been the best thing that has happened. I have been able to help and encourage kids to fight through this horrible disease." - Nick" (I Had Cancer Facebook Page) 

  • "Rest In Peace, David Bowie ‪#‎cancersucks‬" (I Had Cance Facebook Page) 


Recent Discussion Questions (Ask anything you want on our discussion board.)

  • Anyone else get feelings of guilt for what they have put their families through emotionally, physically and financially? I just had a meltdown in front of my mom. I am one year cancer free, two years since diagnosis. I know some of us go through some rough financial times after cancer. Although we are not doing so bad but at times I still feel guilty because if it wasn't for me getting sick we wouldn't have to be paying off loans right now. We would be able to do the things we want and need to that are just not possible at the moment and we wouldn't be living from paycheck to paycheck. And at times I see that my mom is tired of it too and so is my husband, but neither one of them will ever say anything or complain for that matter. Don't get me wrong I am grateful that I am alive, but I just asked God if life will just continue to crap on me then why did you me bring out of cancer? Why can't it just be a little easier? Why can I just feel better physically and emotionally? What did I do so wrong that I seem to be paying for it for most of my life? I had never questioned God before but yesterday and today I did... Right now I feel completly defeated and I do know I am sick and tired of fighting...fighting for my life and fighting for a better life. I have no more positive words to give myself. I have no more encouraging words to say for everyone to hear. I no longer have any fight left in me...I'm just so tired!  (click here to answer) 
  • I had a PET scan and it showed my NHL Follicular has shrunken in my spleen and my neck, but my ovary lit up. The doctor didn't seem worried, but he showed enough concern to say I must have another scan in 3 months. Any thoughts on this? (click here to answer)

If you'd like to sign up for our monthly newsletter, scroll down to the bottom right hand side of the site and enter your email address! 
Thanks for all of your support.
 -The IHC Team

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Weekly Roundup 1/6/2016
January 6th, 2016

Hi Everyone!

We hope everyone had a happy and healthy holiday season and new year! Reminder that January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month!  Below is a blog we've shared containing a visual guide to Cervical Cancer. 

Cervical Cancer: A Visual Guide- Do you want to learn more about Cervical Cancer but you don't know where to start? We have worked with Healthline.com to create an infographic that gives you the vital information you need all in one image. 

In case you've missed out on what’s been going on at I Had Cancer, here is a quick recap. Please reach out to us if you have any questions, comments or requests for our team!

Recent Blog Posts (please email emily@ihadcancer.com to learn more)

  • 10 Things Cancer Survivors Want You To Know About Chemo Brain- Our community has shown us the importance of solidarity in empowering one another throughout the cancer journey--especially after treatment, when some believe the fight ends. To keep you from endlessly repeating yourselves, here's a list to share with someone who may not understand chemobrain. 


  • My New Year's Resolution Is Simply To Live-  With the new year inevitably comes New Year's resolutions. They can be big aspirations or small promises, but either way, New Years is a time of reflection and looking forward. Read how one cancer survivor views these resolutions and the "new normal" below. 



Recent Dear Cancer Messages (What do you have to say to cancer? Let it out.)

  • "Dear Cancer, Even though I am in remission with you, Each day is clock watching, of when to take those oral Meda, but I am grateful that's all it is. Every 12 hours the Meda cally name. Stop eating before you take them, will drive me insane. Thankful to be here, lifelong meds, rather be here, instead of being well. You know. They caught it early, blood cancer, Leukemia is what they said. You can live a normal life span in remission, I'm so glad!" (click here to comment)

  • "Dear Cancer, I guess you are the cause of my father die, and die bad. Not in peace, with pain. I dont know who blame, you cancer or life to put cancer in his body. But its killing me too just watching a person deteriorate like this.. Its not fear with anybody... I really dont know how to feel, or be." (click here to comment)  

Recent Facebook posts (Don't forget to Like us on FB!)

  • "My name is Paula and on September 26th, 2014 I was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma invasive breast cancer. Being diagnosed came as a shock because I have no family history, but through my entire journey, I've learned that many women are the same as me. Getting the word out to the women who think it will not happen to them is my priority & every time someone will listen, I will tell my story. I choose to take the positive route, once I got past the scary part (of course). My motto became "Cancer doesn't like happy" and today, this cancer-free girl is smiling." (I Had Cancer Facebook Page) 

  • ""I am a 26-year-old mum of one. I was diagnosed with primary kidney ewings sarcoma which is extremely rare. I endured 10 months of intense chemotherapy. Lost all my hair within two weeks. I was so weak i couldnt even sit up to kiss my son, or ask if he had a good day. I lost so much weight it scared me. I was frightened for my life and more so for my child's life without me. But here i am, 6 months NED and life is back to normal. I am enjoying every single moment with my son and making so many memories. You just have to find something or someone to fight for. It's one hell of a roller coaster and I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy...but I'm on the other side now, and for those of you who are still going through it, it will get better." - Lianne" (I Had Cancer Facebook Page)


Recent Discussion Questions (Ask anything you want on our discussion board.)

  • I'm new to this site, and had my left lung removed in October and doing chemo for four months. My question to anyone that had a lung removed.....are you on any inhalers, medications or oxygen ? I am not, but will be seeing my pulmonary doctor and wanted to ask him questions. I have noticed that my breathing was better before I started chemo, now with chemo I'm always catching my breath, did anyone notice a difference ? Also, are their breathing exercises you do to increase your breath and lung ? I appreciate any responses.  (click here to answer) 
  • Hi I've just had my treatment changed from tamoxifen after a year to exemestartan for 5 yrs and a zoladex implant injection, does anyone know how long I'll have to have the zoladex for as my pharmacist says he doesn't think I'll be on it for the 5yrs too, I'm waiting for an answer from my oncologist just wondered if anyone knew??? Thanks Angie xx (click here to answer)

If you'd like to sign up for our monthly newsletter, scroll down to the bottom right hand side of the site and enter your email address! 
Thanks for all of your support.
 -The IHC Team

Comment (0)
Weekly Roundup 11/16/15
November 16th, 2015

Hi Everyone!

Reminder that November is National Family Caregivers Month, in addition to Lung Cancer, and Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month- everyone should be raising awareness and showing their support for these very important causes! 

In case you've missed out on what’s been going on at I Had Cancer, here is a quick recap. Please reach out to us if you have any questions, comments or requests for our team!

Recent Blog Posts (please email emily@ihadcancer.com to learn more)


Recent Dear Cancer Messages (What do you have to say to cancer? Let it out.)

  • "Dear Cancer, I beat you! But I don't feel like I suffered enough. I had a kidney removed because of you but I didn't need any treatments. I'm glad you were all encased in that 3cm tumor but I feel sometimes like I really didn't survive anything major. If I had needed treatments of some kind would I feel more like a survivor? I don't know. Please don't come back so I can find out. I listen to other people's stories and when they ask what treatment I had, I feel like I don't have much of a story to tell after that. I guess I need reassurance that I truly am a survivor. Dear cancer, don't get me wrong. I DON'T miss you. I just need to feel like everyone else-I survived and life goes on!" (click here to comment)

  • "Dear Cancer, I beat you because I had a liver transplant. Others were not so lucky because I live in the USA, a country where most of the population are hypocrites who brag that they are saved or blessed and that Jesus is their personal savior BUT they refuse to donate their organs when they are dead. Even though those organs can save lives and will rot in the ground if you don't donate them and even though these mean-spirited hypocrites believe they are going to heaven, they still would rather see those organs wasted then save an innocent person." (click here to comment)  

Recent Facebook posts (Don't forget to Like us on FB!)


Recent Discussion Questions (Ask anything you want on our discussion board.)

  • Does anyone have experience with lung cancer metastasized to the brain, undergoing resection, suffering a stroke, then enduring hydrocephalus to have shunt placed with persistent difficulty with dizziness and vomiting? I am a supporter/caregiver, this is my dad's case. Looking for some insight on treatments that worked or what I can expect next.  (click here to answer) 
  • Greetings! Brand new member posting my first question. I'm sure someone has probably asked it before, but here goes~ As the parent of a child (no matter their age, they are always your baby) who was diagnosed with cancer, how do I deal with the constant fear and anxiety of the cancer coming back or a new cancer developing? (click here to answer)

If you'd like to sign up for our monthly newsletter, scroll down to the bottom right hand side of the site and enter your email address! 
Thanks for all of your support.
 -The IHC Team

Comment (0)
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