Christmas 2013

Merry Christmas One and All!

Yes, its nearly over.  I truly hope you all had a really good day.  Our Christmas was  really low key, just the 5 of us.  You know your kids are getting older when they get up after you on Christmas morning!

Yes, it was nice and calm.  This year, I wasn't thinking about upcoming doctor's visits or bad health reports. Low key was just the way I wanted it!

Earlier this year, a few days before my surgery in March, my family so willingly, um, agreed to have pictures taken.  So in place of Christmasy shots, here are Hutton Family Photos 2013.

Life is What Happens . . .

Ok...put up the lights, decorate the tree, go shopping, wrap the presents...Those were the plans I had last year around this time. . .
I had no idea what lay ahead for me!

Amid the holiday hustle and bustle I knew I had to squeeze in my mammogram. (smile)  It was December 4th of last year when I went in for what I thought would be a routine screening. Little did I realize how much my life would change that day!

And now its December again!  A year later!  I'm so glad I'm at this end of the year and not the beginning!

I think it would be safe to say that 2013 was my worst year ever!  The only other year that might come close was the year my mom got sick and died.  That was 1979.  That wasn't a good year either!

In both years my life changed dramatically. This year I was diagnosed with breast cancer and lost my breast. In 1979, my mom was diagnosed with metastasized breast cancer that had spread to her liver. . . and she lost her life!   I miss my mom, she's been gone for almost 35 years! . . . I can always get breast reconstruction!

Back in 79, I was mad at God for allowing mom to get cancer and for taking her from me.  Why would he allow such an awful thing to happen to such a Godly woman?

I see things differently these days.  I'm not mad at God for allowing cancer in my life.  Lots of people get cancer or other things equally bad -- good people and not so good people.  The Bible says it rains on the just and the unjust.  I just happened to be caught in the rain!

I didn't choose cancer.  I don't think anyone would.  Just like this plaque I found earlier this year says, I was making other plans...

It's very close to what the Bible says:

We can make our plans,

but the LORD determines our steps.

Proverbs 16:9

I'm still gonna make plans, but if God's plans are different than mine, I'll go with His.  Ok, . . so there's the lights, the tree, the shopping . . . .

*******

Hair/Health Update

My hair is growing, but still short.  I have never had short hair so I don't feel real comfortable going without a scarf and hat.  I know. . . I will.  I'm just not there yet. (Well, not in real life, only here in this picture!)

It's been 3 months since I started my hormone therapy medicine.  It makes me feel a little achy in my joints and muscles sometimes, but its manageable. When the weather is colder, it seems to be worse: otherwise, I'm good!

If you would like to follow me on this journey, subscribe to My Breast Cancer Journey by Email. You will be notified by e-mail when I make a new post. Thanks, Pam

Thanksgiving Top Ten List

Here are the top ten things I am thankful for this Thanksgiving.

I am thankful. . .

1.   ...that I had my yearly mammogram in December of last year even through I almost forgot to schedule it.

2.   ...that the Radiologists at the imaging center were able to detect subtle abnormalities in the mammogram.

3.   ...that the surgeon was successful in removing the cancerous tumors.

4.   ...that I was able to go through 4 rounds of chemo over the summer with very little difficulty.

5.   ...that my cancer is now in remission.

6.   ...that friends were there for me.

7.   ...that family was by my side.

8.   ...that God was with me every step of the way.

9.   ...that my faith has grown so much deeper than before.

10. ...that God will meet all my needs.

“Give thanks in all circumstances,
for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”

1 Thes. 5:18 (NIV)

I hope you have a happy Thanksgiving!  What are you thankful for?

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If you would like to follow me on this journey, subscribe to My Breast Cancer Journey by Email. You will be notified by e-mail when I make a new post. Thanks, Pam

October Baby

So, my youngest son, Joshua, turned 17 today!  Occasionally, I call him, "pumpkin" just because he is an October baby.

Happy Birthday, Josh!

He's very active in the Whitney High School Marching Band and has been for all 4 years of high school.

Josh is the first one on the right playing the tenor drums.

Last night was some kind of school rally and this is what he looked like as he played the drums.

Two weeks ago at the football game, the whole band wore pink in support of Breast Cancer Awareness.

The Saturday I was in Dallas last month, Sept 14th, Josh participated in the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life  Thanks to those who supported his efforts!

Scott and I are proud of Josh.  He has over a 4.0 GPA.  I think he wants to go to Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo for college.  Love ya Josh!

The American Cancer Society's website is chock full of information regarding breast cancer and all cancers. Here is a link to info on early breast cancer detection. http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/cid/documents/webcontent/003165-pdf.pdf

I read somewhere that tomorrow is Mammogram Day (10/18).  Any day can be Mammogram Day.  Just don't forget to get yours!

I'm still feeling good and doing great!  This week I went to a Zumba class that started at church. I'm not overly excited about exercise but I try! Thanks for those who continue to pray for me.  God is good!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Did you know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness month?  I certainly am aware now!  Please please have your yearly mammogram if you are a woman over the age of 40.  Younger if you are at high risk.  It could save your life! . . Or at least detect an early tumor. (I know it did for me!)

Yes the cartoon is funny!  It is good to laugh!

I ran across the following video series explaining much of the process a woman goes through when she first discovers there is something abnormal going on in her breast.  I went through many of these same things or became familiar with the terms and information it talks about.  I recommend viewing this video series, especially if you are at high risk, or know someone going through breast cancer.  It explains a bit about breast cancer, the diagnosis, types and stages and treatment options. The whole series takes over an hour to view, but it is broken up into 1 to 3 minute segments, so you can watch bits of it at a time.  It is very informative.  (I hope my sisters take a look.) To go to the original site, click on this link: http://beyondtheshock.com/learn/1/1#1/1

 

Beyond The Shock is a collaborative breast cancer guide created by the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. (NBCF) with the support of the finest medical experts, doctors, and researchers in the world. NBCF utilized ground-breaking technology and the resources of the global medical community to create an accessible platform for understanding a diagnosis of breast cancer.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

I've been taking my hormone therapy medicine, Arimidex,  for 4 weeks now and I feel Ok.  I don't think I'm having any extreme side affects.  

Remember to schedule your mammogram!
Pam

A Family Affair

I was very privileged to attend a family reunion in Texas for my Dad's side of the family last weekend - The Soper Family Reunion!  I think the reunions started back in 1986, a year or so after I was married and before I had kids.  (I could have my dates wrong.  Life gets blurry after a while.)  The first one was at a community center in Castro Valley, CA.  We've had them every two years except one time I was told, it was stretched to 3 years.

Every other year for a reunion seems plenty often, except that not everybody can go every 2 years. The venue rotates between California, Dallas, and Spokane Washington.  I've only been to the ones held in California before this one.  I missed "California 92" when we were in Africa.  Including this year I think I've gone to 5.

Over a period of 27 years, there have been many changes. Loved ones have departed, children have grown up, babies have been born.

Something I discovered this year in Dallas is now Rosemary goes by Rose or Rosie; Marcus doesn't mind being called Marc; Suzie is now Suzanne (or it is Susan?); and Mary Grace will answer to Mary. Wow! It's hard to keep up!

Cousin Rosemary

Gordon, cousin Charlene and cousin Marc

Suzanne

Cousin Mary Grace

I met relatives I had never met.

My cousin, Mary Grace's daughter, Marla's family

Mary Grace's son, David's, daughters, Carly and Jenneh
(My sister, Jan in between.)

I met the non relatives who were there.

Some guys that live at Sheldon and Suzies

I enjoyed talking to my cousins...

My cousin Evan and his wife Dorathy

...and uncle.

Me and Uncle Len

My grandparents, Kirk and Virginia Soper  had 5 children - Ray, Reva, Edith, Rosemay, Kirk Jr. and Leonard.  My dad, Kirk and his brother, Len are the 2 remaining children .

If I counted correctly, there are 14 cousins, ages 43 to 78, and 10 of us were there!  I enjoyed catching up with them. I'm not sure about all the cousin's children...and their children.  It gets too complicated!

At some point during the reunion, the patriarchs of the family reminisced about the "old days." They told us things about the past and laughed...or maybe even cried a little when talking about those that have gone before us. We listen to stories we've heard many times before . . . or maybe for the first time.

 Kirk and Len

Of course no reunion is complete without food.  We had lots!  Friday night, we ate barbecued ribs and tri-tip with all the side dishes at Suzanne and Sheldon's.  Though they are recent California transplants, they did well to live up to the Texas reputation of doing things bigger.  Saturday, Mary Grace prepared beef brisket, chicken and ham and all the fixins. Thanks so much to our host and hostesses!  It was such a pleasure to be with you!

Suzie and Sheldon

Me and my cousin Mary Grace

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I am feeling well, except I do get tired.  I heard this may be a side effect of the Arimidex I am taking or a side effect of just living!

If you would like to follow me on this journey, subscribe to My Breast Cancer Journey by Email. You will be notified by e-mail when I make a new post. Thanks, Pam

A good day for the Huttons!

This is a very good day for the Huttons!  Two Hutton men started new jobs today!  (Yes, TWO, count 'em!)

After I wrote my last post, Scott received word that he was hired at Esurance, which is right down the road from us!  That is an answer to prayer!  For the last five years, Scott had to work out of town almost every week.  Many weeks he had to work in Pennsylvania . . or Ohio . . or Wisconsin, which is a full day of travel from California one way;  to be able to get to work in five minutes is unbelievable! Thanks for you prayers!

Scott on his first day of work.

The second Hutton to start a job is Matthew!  He graduated from college with a communications degree with an emphasis in media. For several years prior to going away to college he spent many hours volunteering in the media and tech department of our church. Now he is hired on to make videos!

Matt after work.

I'm very proud of both my men!  Good job!

God has been good to us!  Probably more than any of us deserve.  I even got to go to my family reunion in Dallas this last weekend.  I enjoyed it so much.  It was kind of a quick decision for me as I wasn't planing on attending until the day before!  Yeah, quick!  I'd like to think it was my prize for finishing chemo treatment!  I saw cousins I hadn't seen in years.  I met people I'd never met.  It was fun!

I'm feeling good.  My hair is slowly poking its way through my scalp! But not enough to go bare headed!  I might just show a picture.
Don't laugh!

Chemotherapy Treatment is Over! - wk 12

My chemotherapy treatment  is over!  The weekly blood draws are done!  No more neupogen shots!  I feel good!

Week 12

Aug 25, Sun
We all went to church!

Took Zach to the train station.  He had to be there for the 2:15 train, so we were rushing to get there in time after church and a quick bite. It takes about 30-35 minutes from our house. When I picked him up, I took the wrong freeway and it took me twice as long!   Now that I know the route, it is a bit easier.  It is sort of like going to the airport, so instead of my weekly trip taking Scott back and forth, I take Zach.

Aug 26, Mon
I suppose if someone gets cancer, they might as well get the perks that go along with it!  The American Cancer Society has a program called, "Look good, Feel better!" This is a hands on class for cancer patients showing how to put on makeup.  The best part about it is- all the free makeup and products they give away!  I went to this class this afternoon and received a bag full of goodies!

Aug 27, Tues
I had an appointment with my Oncologist, Dr Bobolis this morning. She was happy with the way my chemotherapy went and we talked about the next phrase of my treatment.  For the next five years I will have hormone therapy.  This will be in the form of a pill that I will take everyday.  My particular cancer feeds on hormones  so the idea is to lower my hormone levels as much as possible so the cancer will not come back.  The thought of having no female hormones is a little disconcerting, but this has been a well proven course of treatment.  Thoughts of me having a lower voice and growing a beard have crossed my mind, but I don't think that will happen. (At least I hope not!)

Another doctor's appointment today with my general practitioner. Just a follow up on my blood pressure meds.  No problems with this one. (I'm referring to a problem I had with an earlier medicine.  If you want to read about it, click here.)

Tech meeting at church to go over Bible study tomorrow night.  This is the third year that I've been the tech person for our women's bible study.  I run the sound board, pro presenter (the computer program used to play the media message that is presented on the screen) and control lighting and music cd.

Aug 28, Wed
Had a nice walk this morning.  I love my walks. I go down a path by the wetlands in our neighborhood.  I can't help but think of God's creation as I turn down the path.  I'm sure God loves beautiful things because He made beautiful things for us to look at and enjoy.

Scott interviewed for a local job.  With him traveling so much for the last five years, it would be wonderful if he could get a job locally. God already has the right job picked out for him.  I know He will provide!

Bible study starts tonight.  We are studying Gideon by Priscilla Shirer.

Aug 29, Thurs
I also do the tech for the Thursday morning Bible study.

Picked up Zach at train station.

Josh had to get his senior picture taken for the yearbook.

Aug 20, Fri
Matt and I grocery shopped.  It is so much easier when he goes with me.

Josh plays tenor drums (or quads) in marching band. The band played their first football game of the year tonight.

Aug 31, Sat
My last blood draw! (For 3 months!)  I won't miss this!

Lorri came over for a float in the pool.  The first time she came over for a swim this year!

*************

Now that I have completed chemo, friends have asked me the status of my condition and I haven't been sure how to answer.  My oncologist told me that I am in remission now, and have been since my mastectomy.  Technically, I can't say I am cancer free until five years from now.

. . . But I am going to live each day believing the cancer is gone!  I'm going to try my best to take care of my health.  I'm going to smell the roses . . . or the tulips . . . or petunias.  I'm going to count my blessings.  And I'm going to thank God each day... for each day!

This is the day that the Lord has made!

I will rejoice and be glad in it!

(Psalm 118:24)

If you would like to follow me on this journey, subscribe to My Breast Cancer Journey by Email. You will be notified by e-mail when I make a new post. Thanks, Pam

Almost Over! - wk 11

The end of my three month course of chemo treatment is almost over!  My weekly bloodwork will end soon and so will my frequent oncology visits.  I have continued to feel good and gain strength. 

Week 11
Aug 18, Sun
Church

Aug 19, Mon
Matt, Zach and I went to Santa Cruz to drop off Zach for college! He will be staying at my sister and her husband's house, Bev and Jim, and commuting to San Jose State on the Hwy 17 commuter bus. 

Zach and Josh
(before we left home)

Lunch on the wharf
Mom and Matt

Zach and Aunt Bev

Aw, the ocean

Boardwalk

Aug 20, Tues
Scott and Josh stayed home because school starts for Josh today. My baby is a senior in high school!  He already started marching band practice two weeks ago.

Matt and I came home from Santa Cruz today.

Aug 21, Wed
School started for Zach.

Aug 22, Thurs
Since Zach only has classes scheduled on Monday and Wednesday, this was a short week for him. He rode the train to Sacramento today and I picked him up at the train station.  He'll go back on Sunday. This has been a week of buses, trains and automobiles for sure!

Had to get my blood work done.

Aug 23, Fri
A dip in the pool!

Aug 24, Sat
Another day!

**********

Keep praying for us!!!  Thanks

If you would like to follow me on this journey, subscribe to My Breast Cancer Journey by Email. You will be notified by e-mail when I make a new post. Thanks, Pam

It's the most wonderful time of the year! - wk 10

Despite the warm weather we still endure, a new session is quickly approaching - the start of school!  The Staples commercial from the mid 90's is still one of my favorites.   When Zach was young, he would go around singing it and believed every word he was saying.  How quickly they grow up!

Week 10
August 11, Sun
Josh and I ran the cameras at church.
Zach and I went to small group.

So this is what Josh and I do about once a month at church.  We are upstairs in the tech room overlooking the auditorium, but we basically just look at the monitors.  It's actually kind of fun!

My job switching the cameras on Sunday morning.

Josh using the robotic camera, Camera 2.

It's usually more like this,  "Enough all ready Mom!"

Our Pastor, Greg Fairrington

From behind the scenes.

We often have Danny Gokey leading worship.  He is a former American Idol contestant.

More from the Camera Monitor

 

Sunday evening our small group met.  This is just some of us girls!  Thanks friends for being there!

Dayna, Pam, Kristi, Barb

August 12, Mon
Not feeling so well.  This is day 4 after chemo.  It's not my best day. Kristi brought dinner.

August 13, Tues
Still not my best.

August 14, Wed
Feel much better.
Blood work

August 15, Thurs
What do you know! - My neutrophil numbers are good, so I don't need neupogen shots this round!

August 16, Fri
Janelle brought dinner.

August 17, Sat
Helped Zach get ready for college.  He's going to San Jose State next week.

*******

I continue to feel good each day and am on my way to good health! All I need is my hair to grow back!

Scott is still on his job search, but it looks promising. I know God will take care of us!

If you would like to follow me on this journey, subscribe to My Breast Cancer Journey by Email. You will be notified by e-mail when I make a new post. Thanks, Pam