I have cancer....the road to recovery

[Dorothy39]

Remember , Slick is from the "Island of Misfit Toys!!!

She is hard to reach? I think not, in your case.

I'd go for it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Dorothy39]

Hi Slickster, I just had lunch with ETS and of course we talked about many things (as usual) but also of course, talked about you. She told me about a shuttle bus that can take me right from the Seattle airport directly to the Vancouver airport. Only takes about an hour. Hell's bell's that's faster than taking a plane, considering the airport security and all. Sooooooo... *puts on thinking cap, gets out paper and pen, checks calendar*

I meant that last reply for you!!!

[K9karen]

Sorry for the delayed response, which is, BTW, *D##N!*

If anyone can beat this, you can. And I know you will. You asked if anyone knew about this kind of "thing" and yes..my elderly uncle just had the same sirjury last summer and is fine. No further treatment. He was in the hospital almost one week, but went about his normal routine when he came home. Except for feeling tired and sore (oops i gave him a bear hug ))he looks and feels great. You will too!

Be sure to let us know where you want the pizzas delivered.

Wish I could be there for you too. You're awesome and I love you....Karen

[Barbara]

My insurance covers a private room but at the hospital I was there were only rooms for 2 persons

I had to share a room with a girl (ok like eary 30s) and she had two kids who whenever they came to see her they were not worried about their mom (they were like ten) they only said how difficult it was to get around as she could not do the driving because of her damn brain tumor. Then she cried all the time after they left!!!!!! I hope you get that private room!

[emily_the_spoiled]

Hi Slick,

I am originally from Canada and haven't lost all my connections

Unfortunately I don't have enough connections at VGH to get you a private room. Usually if you request a private room they will do their best to get you one (especially because you will be in for a week). I know people at other hospitals, just not VGH...

[Pembroke_Corgi]

I'm really sorry to hear about this news. Having a positive attitude makes all the difference in the world, and it really seems like you have the right approach. I hope the surgery and everything goes well, and everyone here will be thinking of you.

[catland]

I think its pretty obvious by now that you are far from being everyone's last choice.

Keep your sense of humor intact and all else should fall into place.

(((hugs))))

Julie

[Cincy'sMom]

Slick, your story about the mail slot reminded me of a friend who has been battling breast cancer for over 6 years. She lost both her parents and grandparents to breast cance, and alwasy felt for her it was a matter of when, not if.

What really has amazed me through her battle has been attitude. Her motto has been "Find a bigger problem" No matter how bad things seem for you, someone else is dealing with something worse. Sorat of the same idea of it all being small stuff, but a little different twist.

Lots more thoughts and prayers coming your way

[Soapets]

Hi. I'm just reading this now. You have a very positive attitude, and that will help LOTS. This is difficult for me to respond to. I'm glad it isn't the kind from smoking or second-hand smoke.

It's good that you have LOTS and LOTS of resources available to you. When this is all done and over with, your experience will be a priceless asset to you in relating to others with cancer.

God is working in your life, even though it probably isn't the manner in which you might have expected! Just keep the faith, and ask God to be with you every step of the way. You will do fine.

I will keep you in my prayers.................

Deb

[Karen]

Oh, yes, Slick - I forgot to mention that, but excellent slippers are key! You will be a celebrity when you walk the floor in your kitty slippers, as I was when I had my tiger-head slippers. They were huge, and had plastic fangs so it looked like they were chomping on my ankles. Whenever I walked, I'd get "Oh, you're the girl with the slippers!" Way better than those whimpy, characterless hospital-issued things.

And about the food gifts - I'd wait until you see how you feel after waking up - I wasn't hungry for a couple days, the anesthesia does that to some people. I'd save up the gifts of food for when you're feeling up to eating!

[Logan]

I couldn't head into the weekend without telling you that you are in my thoughts and in my prayers every day, Vickie. I hope you can enjoy your weekend.

Keep the faith. We will too!

Logan

[slick]

I did some more phone callin' today. Found out that not only can I bring my kitty slippers and nightshirts, but I can also bring my own pillow and housecoat. Was told I would have to wear the dreaded gown for the first 2-3 days just in case they have to "get at something in a hurry." I really didn't question what that meant.

Also, thanks to pnance I've got some of my questions answered by her thoracic surgeon friend. Thanks Tricia!!!

I also spoke to a coworker who is trained as a nurse and she has been volunteering at VGH for 7 years now. She gave me some very useful information. As well, she told me I could have a phone and TV in my room. Oh goody, now I can still keep up with Coronation Street and The Young & the Restless.

Logan: I do have a strong faith and I'm sure that's what's keeping in sane. There really is so much to think about.

Karen: there isn't much that can kill my appetite but I will probably take your advice and hold off on the treats for a couple of days.

Once again, thank you all for your prayers. I know that there are many other people on this board who need our prayers as well.....let's not forget them, OK?

Love ya!

[DJFyrewolf36]

Slick, I just saw this (Ive been kind of out of the loop for a while) and I admire your attiude and spirit, Im a firm believer of living life, not letting life living you. I'll be praying for you, even though I really haven't had a chance to get to know you that well. I concider you a friend, and a great member of this community

Keep an eye out for those good lookin medical people and thank the nurse if he or she is really cool...Ive had great nurses and Ive had REEEEEEEEALLY bad ones lol, and the bad ones made me apriciate the good ones!

[pnance]

Also, thanks to pnance I've got some of my questions answered by her thoracic surgeon friend. Thanks Tricia!!!

Not a problem at all, and as I said don't hesitate to email me if you think of any others, she'd be happy to answer any you have.

Kelly's right shaved legs, manicure, pedicure go all out, having worked with a lot of people in the medical field I'd say you've got a good shot at getting at least a few hunky helpers. Maybe you can get one to help hold your gown closed......

[Tollers-n-Dobes]

I'm so sorry Slick

I just saw this now. I really don't know what to say, as everyone has already said what I would've said and I don't want to repeat everything. Just please know that we all care about you, even those of us (like myself) who have never talked to you before. You are a wonderful person and I hope you keep up the great attitiude that you have