Spring is getting closer! Welcome to the Teal Thursday chat for March and April.

Teal Thursdays are an opportunity to connect 'live' with others by posting in the thread below. While the Teal Thursday is set for Thursdays at 1pm Eastern, feel free to add to the conversation when it works for you.

If you have any questions, please reach out to me, anytime. 

Marianne

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Hello all...I'm posting a bit early today and will be online until shortly after 1pm. I'll be off to the airport after that to pick up my son, his fiancee and our granddaughter. Yippee they've come for a visit in the land of warmth. I'm very excited to see them. It's also great as my son get's to see my parents (his grandparents). They are both 88 years old and take great joy in seeing him plus their great granddaughter, plus my son's fiancee whom they love deeply.

How is everyone doing out there? I've been "hitting the gym" quite a bit lately. I started to up the weights component of my workout. I'm not gonna lie...my body is feeling it but I need to get tone and definition back. Plus as we all know, weights are very good for our bones.

How are folks feeling? Anyone done anything interesting lately? Anyone have any burning questions? I always love to hear from everyone. Look forward to seeing who will be online today.

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@Alwayslearning so happy your son and family are getting to spend sometime in Florida.  How much longer are you down there for?  Great job on adding weights into your routine, something I think about often but haven't done yet.  My friend and I talked about trying yoga an a joint program to help with movement.  I made it to my 6 months NED.  I will be heading to Europe next Saturday and will celebrate my birthday in Amsterdam this year.  Hope everyone is well.  Spring is coming!🩵🙏🏻

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Hi @Meinvan ... thanks. We've spent a lot of time in the pool with my granddaughter (the fish 😂). We are here a little while longer after they leave.

Congratulations on 6 months NED. 🙌 I hope you celebrated. Have an awesome trip to Europe. Other than Amsterdam, where are you going? We did a wonderful bike tour in Amsterdam last fall. It was awesome. Eat Stroopwaffles!!!

#

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@Alwayslearning thank you.  We are headed to Amsterdam and Paris.  Yes looking forward to eating a stroopwaffle.

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@meinvan Enjoy your travels! It will be spring there.

Sent from my iPhone

@LizR thank you.🙏🏻. Yes, I hope the weather is nice🤞

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Really unsettling that follow-ups are not standardized. Are there not guidelines? I will do some research. If you have recurrence of your ovarian cancer is in a single site you will likely benefit from a 2nd R0 surgery! So yes, please advocate for some follow-up - tumor marker or imaging.
I am on Avastin - and developed proteinuria! I keep going because it can be managed. But I get bloodwork and urine check every 3weeks before the infusion. It is important!
Next to advocating, if you feel that your treatment suggestions do not make sense, please get a 2nd opinion or within Canada or outside.
I am at PMH but also I went for 2nd and 3rd opinion. It is my life on the line….and nobody minded that I can back with some new ideas for my treatment.

Hello from Vancouver Island,  I haven't posted for quite some time but I do read all of your posts.  This week we had our first snowfall of the winter!  I think Mother Nature saw we drastically needed a snowpack in our mountains and decided to give us a little.  
I was quite concerned to read that some are not receiving much in the way of follow up!  That is sure the opposite of what I have received here in BC.  I had 6 rounds of chemo, surgery followed by 2 more rounds of chemo which I finished in May 2024.  I started Olaparib in June of 2024.  For the first year I had a CT every 3 months as well as full blood work including CA125 every month.  Since then I still get bloodwork once a month, bloodwork including CA125 every other month along with an appointment with either my oncologist or the oncology Nurse Practitioner and a CT scan at 6 months.  I will be finished my Olaparib in June and my oncologist will decide what comes next then.
In the meantime I'm just living my life, spending lots of time with my great grandkids and enjoying feeling strong and healthy!

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Hi @JoanEG ... always nice to hear from you. So glad you are feeling strong and healthy and enjoying time with the family. Hopefully that nasty snow has now melted but my sense is you west coasters had a pretty nice winter so lucky you!

I had a questions relative to your Olaparib. I see you finish in June. Can you remind me, if you are willing to share, are you on the full dosage (600mg/day)? As well, has your oncologist given you any indication whether he/she will enable you to continue on with it beyond June? I'm curious as I approach my two years in August. I've been at full dosage the entire time. I'm on a Facebook page for Lynparza folks from around the globe. It is wildly inconsistent on how Olaparib is supported beyond the two years. Some have been on it for 10-11 years! Others have stopped at the 2 year mark and been to that if they recur, they would be eligible to go back on it, indefinitely.

So I'm gathering some information for when the time comes for my discussion.

Thanks!!

#Treatmentandsideeffects

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Good morning@Alwayslearning

I am on the full dose and have been since day one.  I am very fortunate to have had no adverse effects.  I have occasional aches and pains or tiredness but I am 74 so it's hard to pin down if that is due to olaparib or a normal part of aging! 😁

My oncologist will only have me on for two years.  She told me that research shows the efficacy is as good after that time as it would be if continued.  I do know others that have been on it for much longer but 2 years is the standard here in BC. At this point we haven’t discussed what the treatment would be in the event of recurrence.  I am also on that Facebook page and it definitely indicates how different we all are and how different treatment protocols can be.  
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Thank you for sharing @JoanEG ... two years seems to be the standard in Ontario as well.

#Treatmentandsideeffects

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@Meinvan I'm not sure if you are checking in while you are on your travels but I do hope you are having a lovely time. Amsterdam and Paris in the spring....it sounds wonderful. Enjoy every minute!!

#Anythingbutcancer

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@Alwayslearning thank you

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Hi all...it's Sunday and I just wanted to let everyone know how much I appreciate each and every one of you. Thank you for sharing. Thank you for showing up for each other. Thank you for your raw honesty. Thank you for asking the questions. Thank you for supporting each other when it sometimes feel no one else is listening. This is such a tremendous community. 🩵

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Happy Thursday everyone. I'm betting that spring is finally revealing itself! I know we have members from coast to coast so what signs of spring are happening where you are? Hopefully snow is done now and will be a distant memory for many of the areas who were really hit hard this year by the deep freeze and snowstorms.

I was pretty excited to read the latest newsletter from OCC...there is so much going on to continue to tackle ovarian cancer. The AI-driven research project sounds amazing. I know Jessica from OCC also posted information about this on the main OVdialogue page so hopefully you saw this. I'm so thankful for OCC and all the researchers around the globe who continue to put their time and effort into tackling this disease. The Teal Warriors deserve it!! 

#Clinicaltrialsandresearch #Anythingbutcancer

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Hi @lbarr72 ... sorry for the delayed response. I was on a five day cruise out of Tampa. Had a lovely time!

I did hear that Mother Nature wasn't done with her winter wallop on everyone. She's definitely in a bad mood 😂 Hopefully the temperatures will begin to rise again and that will be the last of snow for awhile!

How exciting you are going to the Canadian Conference. You can be our OVdialogue "reporter on the ground" 😊 If you have time, please share your experience!!

Wow! I bet it feels like the two years of Olaparib flew by. I'm so glad you are feeling good however I do appreciate the feeling of apprehension. If you have the option to continue, will you? Regardless, congratulations! Please let us know what the next steps look like.

Happy spring 🌞

#Supportandencouragement

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Hi everyone! @lbarr72 mentioned the Canadian Conference on Ovarian Cancer Research in Vancouver - if you're interested in joining us to hear from expert speakers and connect with others in our community, you can find more information by clicking here. You are able to attend just the patient day on Friday, May 29th or you can choose to attend the whole conference (May 29 to June 1) including patient day. If you have any questions, please reach out to me. All the best!

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@mfallis_OCC Hi Marianne, great that there are patient-focused conference days in Canada. Are there also events for patients with ovarian cancer summarizing and translating new scientific results from the main annual conferences? I know other countries offer these sessions for their patients but have not seen this in Canada. More than just to hear about coping and supportive mechanism, I would be interested in the new ongoing research and clinical trials and newest cutting-edge drugs. Thank you.

Hi @Tanja, 

Ovarian Cancer Canada offers Speaker Series events that focus on a variety of different topics, which can include research. You can see our past recordings by clicking here. An example would be the Behind the microscope: Exploring early detection research. You can read more about this session, and watch the recording, by heading to the OVdialogue English Library or following this link: find this recording here. 

Also, on the Ovarian Cancer Canada website, we have a research showcase which serves as a comprehensive archive, highlighting pivotal studies and groundbreaking discoveries. It offers a detailed look into the vast array of research efforts aimed at understanding, diagnosing, treating, and ultimately curing ovarian cancer, documenting the progress and impact of these initiatives on the cancer community and beyond. You can find the research showcase here. 

If you have further questions, please let me know. 

All the best, Marianne

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Hello all and happy Thursday. I'm sorry I'm a bit late hopping on but I was watching my hubby in a Pickleball competition. He won 😁

How is everyone doing out there? @LeslieA how was your trip?? I'd love to hear all about it. I was on a five day Caribbean cruise out of Tampa a week ago. Definitely not as exotic as your trip!😊 We took my son, his fiancee and our granddaughter. It was a lot of fun and the weather was outstanding. It was a nice break for them from the crazy up and down cold weather in the Toronto area.

It's been a pretty active few days on this site. There are some threads that have sparked curiosity and connection. I always appreciate the willingness of others to share data, learnings from their medical teams etc. As I've said many times, knowledge is power. As we each advocate for ourselves, being armed with as much information as we can is important. I'm also thrilled to see that OVdialogue members will be 'boots on the ground' at the upcoming OCC conference in Vancouver. I can't wait to hear from @LeslieA and @lbarr72 and any others who are able to attend. It's also great to see additional connections being made with possible 'in person' meet ups. Thank you @KrazyKat for initiating that. 

For any new members, we'd love to hear from you. Everyone is at different stages of their journey's. For those who are perhaps at the beginning of their journey, connecting with others can be so helpful especially when there is often so much new to learn from those with "lived experience". For those that are further down the pathway of their journey, the focus of conversations may feel different however we'd all been at the starting line at some point. I feel that the ultimate goal is just to help each other, in any way we can.

For now, for everyone out there, give yourselves a big personal hug. 🤗 We all deserve it!!! 

#Supportandencouragement

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Thanks for sharing those photos Leslie! It looks and sounds like you had a wonderful time!

Joan

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@LeslieA how much do I LOVE these photos!! I am so glad you had such a wonderful time. Thank you for sharing.

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@LeslieA welcome back!  Wonderful pictures, you looked like you had a great time.🩵

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Hi everyone, I got back yesterday from my holiday to Amsterdam and Paris.  I must say my friend had great timing.  Our weather was beautiful and sunny most days, up to 17 when we got to Paris.  Meanwhile in Vancouver the entire time was spent in the rain and an atmospheric river with a mudslide not far from where I live.  I got to turn 54 in Amsterdam last week.  In Amsterdam we wondered the streets, toured Edam,Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Markem for clog making, cheese making and a canal tour.  we did a walking tour around Anne Frank and Jewish history during WW2, visited the Rij museums, Albert Cuyp market, walked thru the red light district at night, and toured the Anne Frank House.  In Paris we visited Versailles, a tour on the Seine River, saw the Eiffel Tower, a Louvre tour, found a lovely gourmet market and store, and visited Montmartre area.  In Montmartre by the Sacre Coeur by the dog park I placed a teal coloured heart shaped lock for myself and for all the other ovarian cancer warriors out there.  I hope one day if my family or friends go back that my lock is still hanging there on the love lock fence for them to find.  I must say there were many moments that were emotional for me and I had to hold back my tears especially walking around a small church where you could light candles to send prayers, we were going to light one but I wasn't sure what one to do.  Then I think I found the one for the sick and got too emotional to do it.  Also placing my lock on the love fence made me cry as it had such a deep meaning to me.  Of course it's good to be home it was tiring and we couldn't go go go like we used too.

hope everyone is doing great.  I'm back to medical land next week with labs and appt with oncologist.

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So happy to hear you had a good time and the weather was nice. It's on my bucket list when I get a break from weekly chemo. 

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Hi Meinvan,

   I am so pleased to see your travel photos. It looked like a fantastic trip that was also touching and very meaningful. I hope that your visit with your oncologist goes really well! 
Leslie  

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@Meinvan wow what a lovely trip you had. Having recently been in both Amsterdam and Paris, I know weather can be uncertain at times but you definitely lucked out with your weather! What great photos and the lock...what a wonderful thought and tribute. I love the Montmartre area...it's my favourite in Paris. I have a picture I bought there many, many years ago from a local artist which hangs above our bed. If I ever return to that area, I will go looking for that lock. I was in Versailles recently too and I hope you loved it as much as I did.

It sounds like you got to see and visit so many things. I'm so glad you made the trip and had such a wonderful time with your friend. Such wonderful memories to hold on to. I hope the oncologist appointment is nothing but routine in nature.

Welcome back!

#Anythingbutcancer

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Welcome back! and thanks for sharing your stories about your travels and the Pics are amazing. Hoping all goes well with your cancer land appointments this week. 

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Thank you ladies.  So many great memories made.  First girls trip on our own without the kids.

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Hello all! I'm posting a little early today as I may be out at 1pm (ET).

I hope your Thursday is bringing a bit of sunshine (or a lot if you are lucky) and perhaps a smile to your faces. From a health perspective I'm doing ok. My repeat abdominal pain continues to come and go. I had a solid one month of no pain but it reared it's head again a few days ago. End of January CT showed no sign of cancer and the continued thought is that it's scar tissue/adhesions (per separate posts on this topic). I monitor my bowels which are doing fine and adjust my diet so I'm doing all the right stuff. It is annoying that's for sure however it is something I can live with if that's the worst the universe wants to throw at me! 🙂

We had my hubby's aunt/uncle visit us for a few days and now we are preparing for our next visitor. My hubby travelled in Australia extensively in his early 20's and met a lot of great people. He has stayed in touch with a few of them as 'pen pals' (upgraded years ago to email pals). One of them is going to be in Florida for a family event and she is coming to stay with us for a week. She/I have never met so it does feel a bit odd to have a stranger (to me), staying however it's going to be fun to meet and get to know her. We get to do some 'tourist' things as well which we don't tend to do.

Also, last night I attended the OCC Speaker Series on "Understanding Biomarkers in Ovarian Cancer". It was very good. I will do a separate post on that and look for feedback from others who also attended.

Drop a line if you are here today and/or when you get a chance. I always like to hear from folks whether new to the forum, new to posting or who've been active voices for awhile. 

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@brendalee thank you for taking the time to do that. I have a friend who had abdominal surgery (not cancer related) and she also said that massage was what was recommended to her so thank you for the reminder and the post. I have a pelvic health physio therapist so will need to engage her on this.

My friend also suggested some stretches so I've got to remember to be more consistent with those.

I really do appreciate you taking the time to do the google search. 💙

#Healthandwellness

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Hi everyone, 

Absolutely, I can share that for you @lbarr72. Congratulations for sharing your story in this way, well done!

To find the article, click here. 

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Incredible strength and inspiration 🩵🩵

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Thank you sharing your inspiring artwork and interview article. Both are wonderful. Like you, I have gained strength by having this connection with our teal sisters here. Your painting expresses that connection so well. 🩷

LeslieA 

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@lbarr72 your artwork is lovely. Thank you for sharing. Such an inspirational and meaningful painting. You have such clear talent. 💙 I can feel your hand in mine!!!!

What a great article as well. You look great! It takes courage to be so open and honest, knowing your story will be visible to a broader audience. Thank you for taking the time and for sharing your story. If it helps one person advocate for themselves with their medical team then it will have done wonders. I love ALL your artwork. I have zip when it comes to artistic talent so I'm always so impressed by others such as yourself. I appreciate how much comfort you must draw from it. I also LOVE your teal eyeglass frames!!! You are inspiring. 💙

Out of curiosity, how did you get connected to the London Free Press for the article?

#Supportandencouragement

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@lbarr72 that's awesome. Thank you for taking the time to do this!!!!

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@lbarr72 thank you for sharing your artwork and your story.  🩵

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I love your artwork @lbarr72 - speaks volumes.  And what a wonderful article!  I was going to say, at last week's Teal Tea, that you speak so eloquently - you are the perfect person so such an important article spreading awareness and hope 🥰

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@lbarr72. What a great picture.  You are so talented.  Can't wait to see the interview.

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LOVE this photo!  Thanks for sharing 💙

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Hello all,

Is anyone on line today? How are folks doing? I know we've had some folks back from travel who have posted some amazing pictures. Is anyone else back recently from travels (near or far)? Is anyone planning any travel? I know airline prices are about to increase with all this craziness going on overseas which may limit some travel. What a shame. 

Well excitement for us here in Florida yesterday. We were able to see the Artemis II launch from our backyard. Albeit we were 230km away but still, we were able to see it as plain as day. It was pretty cool. 

Anything cool going on with others? Questions from anyone? Comments? Updates? 

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Hello @Alwayslearning

I'm here for a bit...

I had CT scan this morning at 0830 and Mother Nature made travelling to ACCCC challenging today as it snowed in Calgary!  It's now after 2pm and still snowing!  The roads were not great.  I blame Balzac Billy who was our GroundHog 🤣
Since they took my IVAD out (end of January) the nurse had to find veins again and my veins roll.  So the first poke in my left arm now has a bruise and the tape left a red mark like blood blisters when I took the bandage off; my skin doesn't like that adhesive.  I've been putting ice on my left arm as it's a bit swollen.  It was successful in my right arm, so in future I'll ask them to try my right arm.
Now I wait for the results - they will show up in MyChart App so I'll know them before my phone consult April 9 with my Oncologist.

I would love to do a cruise somewhere - I just need someone to go with.  I'm hoping to rope my Son into it...if he wears ear plugs it'll be fine (I snore he tells me).  I have thought about Mexico too and many people I know really like Huatulco...I think I'll just go wherever it's cheapest!  It's not as easy financially being on long-term disability.  
The other thing I need to do is apply for the Canada Disability benefit.  I will do that online and send it to my doctor to complete or my oncologist (not sure which doctor is right)?
I did my taxes and submitted that already because I read that the disability benefit can take up to 8 weeks to get approved and I didn't want to be late to file taxes.  It's backwards but oh well...can't do things perfectly timed anymore.
That's pretty cool you saw the launch!  I hear you can follow the route somehow - maybe it's on you tube?
Take Care!!
Tammy 

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Hope everyone's CT scans are great! @Alwayslearning exciting to see the Artemis.  Something you always remember.   
'As for me, I had my oncologist visit yesterday, labs are still good, ca125 is 6.8 this month, up by 1 point so nothing to worry about.  I am waiting for my CT scan no date yet, she said she would put a request to move it up so it gets done in April or may as there is such a back log.  Continuing on Zejula, with monthly labs but I don't need to see her for 3 months unless things change of course.  I asked about mammograms, colonoscopy and pelvic exams.  She said she would refer me to a gyne for follow up pelvic exams.  I booked my mammogram and have it in 2 weeks as there was a cancellation.  I haven't done one since 2018….thanks Covid.  I am supposed to have yearly as my sister had breast cancer. Colonoscopy she said I could do a fit test first and go from there. I lost my brother to colon cancer so I should probably have the scope.  I'll see my GP in June to discuss all this. 

i hope everyone has a wonderful Easter weekend.🐰🐰

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@Meinvan ... yeah on the good labs and I'm jealous about your CA125 score. So great. Mine is always somewhere in the 18 - 24 range. I've never been below 10. It's an interesting number. Glad the Zejula is continuing and you aren't having any issues with that. I'm guessing your CT is just routine in nature??

As I'm BRCA2+ I get annual mammograms and a boob MRI, plus a visit to a doctor at a Gene Carrier clinic who also does a physical exam. My GP does a physical exam at the 6 month mark so I feel pretty well monitored. If I have any unusual symptoms they would be reviewed. I'm told Lynparza is also very helpful for addressing breast cancer so hopefully it's a double positive for me in terms of helping keep away OVC and BC. 

I did ask my oncologist if I still needed PAP's and she said nope as my cervix was removed. So I guess that's a win from the surgery 😁

I had my routine colonoscopy last May. It had been a few years for me because of my diagnosis and surgery etc. My Dad has had polyps removed so I've been having them since I was 40. Never a fun time however she was helpful in identifying that my sigmoid colon had narrowed from my surgery/scar tissue. It likely explains some of my abdominal pain that likes to come and go with me.

So good luck with all your different tests. Although they all kinda suck it's also nice to be focused on the 'routine' exams again.

Wishing folks a Happy Passover or Happy Easter or Happy Weekend based on what you recognize and celebrate. Regardless, eat chocolate 😊and enjoy.

#Healthandwellness

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Sounds like you are holding steady, Meinvan. So good to hear that. 

I have been reading everyone's discussion on CT scans. I just met with my GP/onc (which is once a month to check bloodwork and get monthly Lynparza prescription) and she reviewed an email from my Victoria oncologist who apparently does not order intermittent CT scans unless there are symptoms. My bloodwork is still normal (she doesn't usually share the actual numbers, telling me that it doesn't matter unless there is an upward trend). She did say that the markers are actually down a bit. I have decided not to worry about knowing the actual numbers, so that I don't become obsessive about them and keep my stress down. (I can look them up if I really want to, but right now I am trying to live in the moment more and enjoy what is happening now). That said, I believe that I should have pelvic exams with a gynaecologist every few months. As this wasn't mentioned in our recent meeting, I may have to ask that this be done.  It is a balancing act of staying calm and trusting the process, versus remaining alert and advocating for regular screening, as we know how sneaky this disease can be. 

We are staying at our cabin on Hornby Island this Easter weekend. We have a view of the sandy beach and yesterday was full sunshine. The robins are chirping and it seems that our world here has woken up with a bounty of spring blossoms! Happy holidays everyone! 

LeslieA 

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@LeslieA my oncologist does not order CTs on an intermittent basis either (I'm managed out of PMH in Toronto). She will only request one if there is something unusual in my labs OR if there are other symptoms worth exploring. 

Good for you for not focusing on the numbers. It can get into your head can't it?! My WBC count and neutrophils were in the toilet in February but my oncologist was happy with all my other numbers. I thought she was going to make me come back in a week to retest everything but nope. She sent me on my way. It turned out I had the flu and it didn't rear it's head until the next day so maybe she's a fortune teller too 😄. I'm betting she looks for a pattern e.g, if my numbers are still down in early May at my next visit, then we may have a trend forming. Since I felt perfectly fine and looked good, she was not concerned (my CA 125 was 20 which is in my normal range so I guess that supported her lack of concern that anything was going on).

The frequency of pelvic exams is interesting when reading everyone's comments. Perhaps having/not having them is for some driven by whether their cervix was removed (as mine was). It's a curious question. I know I've had pelvic exams done by oncologist/her team when I've had horrible abdominal pain so they will do exams, I've just been told no more PAP's. I'm going to ask about this one too at my next appointment. Perhaps I misconstrued "no more PAP's" to mean "no more pelvic exams".

Your cabin location sounds lovely. Enjoy the sunshine. I hope it continues through the weekend. Hoppy Easter 🐰

#Healthandwellness

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Alwayslearning,

Good thoughts about why no pelvic exams or pap's. Going forward, I think I should ask more questions so that I am not puzzling about why certain exams are no longer. I did have a pelvic exam a few months ago post-surgery and I think the gynecologist was checking on my internal stitches perhaps? He was pleased with how everything had healed. 

LeslieA 

@Tanja I was saying the same thing. It is strange how inconsistent the various sites are. So strange.

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@brendalee that would seem logical however all my CT's are for chest/abdomen/pelvis and the eat/don't eat prior instructions are still inconsistent based on the imaging location. I'm going to ask my radiologist friend about this because I'm now very curious on why the variations. Perhaps it's at the discretion of the chief radiologist for that location. I shall report back what I find out. 😊

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Hi @lbarr72 I find it so odd that you can't eat 6 hours prior. The rules are so different from hospital to hospital. At PMH in Toronto you are fine to eat beforehand, just not a heavy meal. Here in Florida when I've had scans done, you CAN'T eat 6 hours beforehand. I wish there would be some consistency.

I love that you had a 5 Guys Burger afterwards. Yum. 

Your West coast trip sounds so nice. I know it's hard not to worry about health issues but try to focus on the good things. At least you will be in Canada so you know you'll get good healthcare support if you do need it.  Also well done on the 3 exercise workouts. Every little bit helps.

I hope your CT results will come back all clear. That's so strange about your oncologist. Maybe call the office next week and press them for a date since you've had the CT done. Even if your GP reviews the results with you, they don't need to know that. 

Love that spring is finally showing up. Yeah!!!

Be well.

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Hello @DiamondGoddessYYC ... always nice to hear from you. Yikes on the snow storm. Mother Nature truly is having a bad year isn't she. The CT scan experience does not sound fun. I hope the ice is working to improve the site. I've had a few 'superficial thromboses' because of movement of i/v's when in my arm. They can be painful so I'm hoping yours is just some minor skin inflammation and will heal quickly.

Cruises are nice. I always like the idea of unpacking once but waking up in multiple places (plus having a nice air conditioned room to return to in hot locales). 

Well done on getting your taxes done. I married a finance guy so I have the joy of having him do our taxes. Yeah!!!

Yes you can follow the Artemis II online. If you google it something will come up. It was pretty cool to see the launch and from such a long distance away. Having a Canadian on board makes it that much more special.

I hope your CT scans will come back all clear. Good luck on April 9th. 

#Supportandencouragement

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Love your moody watercolour brendalee, and especially the paradox of a summer-Iike vista amid a wintry scene. 

Glad to know that you are coming out for the conference and hoping we can all meet up. 

Leslie 

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@lbarr72 I love "what would Linda do". You clearly made an impact.

Good to know there's an Earl's in London. I live about 1 hour 20 min from there. We often head there to do our "Costco" shopping so I may have to seek that out when we are there.

Yeah for the sun. Hopefully the rain comes through quickly and the long weekend will be full of sunshine.

#

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@brendalee congratulations on the good results from the check up and an impressive CA 125 # too. 👏

I remember Earl's from when I lived in Edmonton. Always good food. There is one about 2 hours from where I live but I travel to that city quite a bit so perhaps I'll have to check it out. I LOVE fries dipped in mayo, a good aioli etc. Thanks for the tip.

Love the water colour painting especially the footprints. You are very talented. Then to say you are going to do some sewing too. I can't paint or sew. The 'craft' talent gene never came my way. I can hold a tune fairly well and I sing sometimes with my dad who plays the banjo in a bluegrass band. However I won't be cutting records anytime soon 😄

Don't be discouraged regarding the exercise. You are clearly motivated and are getting movement in. I too played pickleball this week. It was 26C and I only got two games in before I called it...way too hot for me to play. I'm looking forward to the spring temperatures in Ontario so I can get more court time when we are back north in a few weeks. Do you play indoors or outdoors? I've never played indoors. As we live in a rural area the courts are few and far between and are only outside.

I'm excited for you and all the ladies who will be in Vancouver and meeting up for the conference. You are going to learn so much and I'm betting it will be emotional but inspiring.

Happy spring! Congrats again on the good checkup results.

#Healthandwellness

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We are in FL too Weathers been nice but the traffic is terrible. Kind of impedes ones ability to do even the simplest of things like go to the beach or shopping. I wouldn’t normally go to usa but had to deal with a house. Enjoy being in Canada
Courtenay
Sent from my iPhone

Hi @Courtenay ... I hope the nice weather continues. I agree, depending on the city you are visiting in Florida traffic is crazy. We are between Tampa and Sarasota and we try to avoid going outside of our small city centre as traffic is a nightmare. I miss my small home town where we have no traffic lights 😁

Enjoy your time in Florida.

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@brendalee love the watercolor.  Jealous I don't have such a talent like some of you on here. @Alwayslearning I read somewhere before that pelvic exams were not as frequent as before, so when my oncologist said every 6 months I was surprised.  Something I absolutely hate having done, if I did it every 10 years I was  fine with that but even that was too much!😬. But look where it got me…..yes I'm trying to be a good patient for once.  Easier now that my son is not in school.  I believe the scope is uncomfortable by important to have done, I know there was some narrowing post op and with my family history something I will have to do too.  I managed the bowel prep for surgery so at least I know what to expect, unpleasant but manageable. 
@LeslieA I get not looking at the numbers.  I see them but I try not to worry about it, I have to trust my oncologist will be on top of things.  I wasn't planning on going to the conference in Vancouver, glad so many people are attending.  I hope you will keep us all updated on what you learn.  Let me know if you are planning any get togethers while in town.  I don't drive into downtown Vancouver but could always uber or drive somewhere else to meet up too.

im working on a puzzle currently,  I find it relaxing and put on my ear pods and listen to music or an audiobook while doing them.

have a great day everyone🩵

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Question.

i just read about the Kelim score in my oncology report, i just got access to my note.  I know this was something she talked about back when i was in chemo, but I wasn't sure what it was so i was reading about it last night.  Mine was 0.83 when it was done.  I guess predictability of >1 has before outcomes.  I'm hoping others with below 1 numbers have the experience of longevity.

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@Meinvan this is definitely a new term to me. You are brave to read up and look at your score. I'm going to feign ignorance on this one and not even go and try to find it in any of my reports. This is one statistic I don't want to get into my head. 

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@Alwayslearning I agree not the number I will focus on instead I will focus on how my body responds and feels.  Doctors like numbers and stats.

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I hope we get access to all these new drugs someday soon in case we ever need them.

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It’s only available in the USA. Hopefully Canada fast tracks it 🤞
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Hi @Tanja ... yes I saw that as well. Here is a link to an article for those interested. I'm sure if you google this, you'll also find lots of other information. I too hope that it's on Canada's radar. I agree, it's good to know it's out there so that Teal Warriors can ask their medical teams if it's an option for them. Thanks for highlighting this.

https://ocrahope.org/news/slug-fda-approves-lifyorli-relacorilant-platinum-resistant-ovarian-cancer/

@LeslieA when you are at the upcoming OCC conference on Cancer Research this would be an interesting topic to ask about (if there's an opportunity). When these types of treatments are made available in the U.S. (or perhaps in other parts of the world), how does OCC stay "tapped in" to the research and also engaged in advancing approvals for woman in Canada.

#Treatmentandsideeffects

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@Meinvan the pelvic exam thing is a curious one. I just said in a post response to @LeslieA that perhaps having/not having them is for some driven by whether their cervix was removed (as mine was). It's a curious question. I know I've had pelvic exams done by my oncologist/her team when I've had horrible abdominal pain so they will do exams, I've just been told no more PAP's. I'm going to ask about this one too at my next appointment. Perhaps I misconstrued "no more PAP's" to mean "no more regular pelvic exams" unless warranted for symptoms of some kind.

Enjoy the puzzle! I just baked brownies for a party tomorrow and now I need to get out of the house and to the gym before I try to eat them all 😀

#Healthandwellness

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@Alwayslearning yes I will ask when I get into the gyne about frequency too.  I understand no paps.

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Hello Teal Sisters,

There's been a fair amount of activity on the site this week. A special welcome again to all the new sisters who have engaged in the discussions. As a reminder, please feel free to share your thoughts in honour of your "caregivers" (see separate discussion post). While it's great that there's a day to honour them, I'm sure many of us are thankful for them 365 days of the year. 💖

It's been a crazy weather week across Canada. Blooms and sunshine in the West, with snow and cold temperatures through the Prairies and to the East. Hopefully this will be the last of the cold blast and spring can finally settle in across our great country 🍁

I've had an up and down week. Have a dreaded yeast infection (first one in many, many, many years). So dealing with that with over the counter drugs. It has limited me a bit in terms of swimming but I've tried to remain active in the gym at least 3x week and added the treadmill in place of my beloved swimming.

It's "Masters Weekend" in my house. One of our favourite weekends of the year. We love golf in our household (I'm more of a tourney watcher while my hubby is an active player). We are hosting a party with about 20 people. We try to serve foods similar to what they offer in Augusta (e.g., Pimento Cheese Sandwiches). We also serve "Arnie Palmers" (look it up if you aren't sure what that is). Ahhh, the fun. Do I have any other Masters followers out there?  ⛳

What's going on for others today? Any fun weekend plans? Any questions you have for the Teal Sisters on the site? 

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@Courtenay I can only imagine that must be stressful with so many things to manage. Hopefully you will be able to find a property management company of some kind to help if family are not stepping up.

I do love that the Lynparza has worked for 7+ years for you. It gives hope to others that we can get our oncologists to support a longer timeline to take it (beyond what seems to be the very strict 2 years).

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@LeslieA great advise from the nutritionist. I do not deny myself my guilty pleasure foods. I just do it in moderation. My biggest goal is to get more veggies into my life. Since I've had to eliminate eating raw veggies which were my lunch go to, I just have to be more planful e.g., cook carrots/parsnips etc. ahead for lunches. My hubby and I are also upping the amounts we eat with our meals. We rarely eat a starch with dinner. We found some great frozen veggies from Costco. One is roasted veggies and the other a great mix of veggies. I don't tend to like frozen as I find them too watery however I've been changing up the cooking methods and have finally found ways to reduce the liquid. Plus we add them to lots of other sauces which helps.

One day I'm going to find a "Pound" class. I think that would be very cathartic!

#Healthandwellness

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@lbarr72 congratulations on reaching the 2 years with Lynparza. Not everyone does so it's an accomplishment to celebrate.👏 I'm going to be engaging with my oncologists team in the coming months as my two years ends in August. I want to understand if continuation is possible if a person has done well on it, with minimal to no lingering side effects.

I hope your oncologist appointment goes well. I'd like to think that if there was anything of concern on your CT that they would call you well in advance of your appointment.

I'm so glad that some of you are meeting up in Vancouver at the OCC conference. Can't wait to hear all about it from y'all!

#Treatmentandsideeffects #Supportandencouragement

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@brendalee so I did. That will teach me to multi-task 😀. I updated it. Thanks for the heads up.

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@brendalee the potatoes sound delicious. I don't think they are bad unless you are eating them every day. We have to indulge every so often. I too had scalloped potatoes with ham but your potatoes sound much more delicious than mine 😋. I can also taste the soup you made. Also a big yum. 

You've been very active. Well done you! I'm off to play pickleball today at 11am. It's ladies play from 11-1pm. We have music going. There's a raffle draw that one of the ladies does, there are some healthy snacks etc. Lots of fun. It's pretty hot today so I'm not sure I'll get the full two hours but I'll give it a try. Do you play outdoor or indoor? I'm guessing indoor considering the weather but you may be very robust!! Belly dancing...love that too!

How exciting that you have your flight booked for Vancouver. 

I love "Escape to the Country". I didn't realize until recently that they have newer shows. I seemed to be watching ones from 2022 and found some 2025 ones. 

Hope you have a lovely weekend.

#Anythingbutcancer

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@brendalee I'm jealous you have a facility so close. Our house is in a very small town. The closest courts are 25 minutes away and only outdoors. Not convenient but my hubby (who is an amazing player...me, not so much), and I will venture there a few days a week once summer hits.

I was born in England and it reminds me so much of my roots and some of the smaller villages my relatives live in. We had an opportunity when my son was young, to do an expat assignment in England. It was with my work. We thought long and hard about it but we just couldn't leave our extended family. Missed opportunities perhaps. I do however love your idea of getting on the show.  How hilarious would that be!! 

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Courtenay, 

   I understand your perspective on life, especially when we think about other people's lives, some cut short by illness or tragedies. Reading biographies has been helpful for me, as I recognize that most people encounter losses and sorrow at some point in their lives. There are days when I feel saddened by this unpredictable illness and then there are other days when I feel so grateful to still be alive, enjoying the springtime and the colourful burst of blossoms. My grief ebbs and flows like the tides and that is okay, I guess.

   Your situation with the rental houses (and all the work they entail) sounds challenging, particularly if you are doing it on your own. Do you think there might be a way to ease the pressure on yourself to do everything? (I think sometimes that people forget that we are still vulnerable on the inside, even if we look "normal" again on the outside). 

LeslieA 

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Hello Courtenay,

   Yes it is a rocky road at times, isn't it? I hope that you are doing okay despite life's challenges. I imagine that you have witnessed some changes in cancer treatment from 12 years ago when you were first diagnosed? I mention this because one of the nurses in Cancer Care told me how different the treatment protocols are now, compared to years ago. I think she was commenting on cancer treatment generally, not our type. 

   I also give thanks for the medical care that I have received so far. 

   Last Friday night I went to a musical performance in my town and by chance met the tech person from radiology who prepped me when I had my picc line installed last year. I was so scared that day, but he put me at ease before the doctor arrived to do the procedure. He later checked on me when I was in Cancer Care during my infusion, to make sure that everything was working properly. I finally had the chance to thank him face-to-face for his kindness and excellent care of me on that day. He seemed moved by my gratitude and gave me a big hug. 

LeslieA

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Sorry I missed signing in yesterday however my dog was unwell and today we had to put her to sleep. She was just shy of her 15th birthday and was a kind and gentle soul. She was a beautiful Labradoodle named Bailey and a cherished family member. Our hearts are broken but we have so many memories to help us heal.  It's a reminder that all life is precious. Enjoy each day to the fullest ❤️🌈

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Thank you @lbarr72. I feel I may be crying for a few days to come however we know she is at rest now. She had been diagnosed with congestive heart failure in November. We were able to manage it with lots of medications and to be honest, there were days she acted like a five year old dog. She'd whip around the yard!

We knew we'd get a sign when things were not going well and this morning, she woke up not able to catch her breath and disoriented. We took her to the vet who confirmed the fluid in her abdomen and around her heart was excessive. She also had a large mass, likely cancerous that had not been diagnosed previously. She was not in pain however was not going to recover. It was a tough decision but the best for her.  We will heal. Our memories will sustain us. 💗

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Thank you @brendalee ... it is so heartbreaking. I always say that death is inevitable, it's just never actually expected. We knew she was ill and was on borrowed time. We were fortunate enough to get an additional five months following her congestive heart failure diagnosis. The most important part to us was that she was not in pain. Today, she was not herself. She let us know it was time. 💔

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I'm so sorry for your loss @Alwayslearning.  Sending you a warm hug 🫂 

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Thank you @JoanEG … she was a very good girl and our hearts are heavy 💔

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Thanks @LeslieA I appreciate it. I think what's weighing on me is that it all happened so quickly. We knew that could be the case but it doesn't make it any easier. I guess I just assumed I'd have more time. I take comfort knowing that she's no longer struggling to breathe. But oh do I miss her so. 💔

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I'm so sorry for your loss. Bailey sounds like such a beautiful, gentle soul, and it's clear how deeply she was loved. Fifteen years of memories is something truly special, even though it makes the goodbye so much harder. Thinking of you and your family during this heartbreaking time, may those memories bring you comfort little by little. ❤️🌈

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@Cole thank you so much. It was tough when I got up this morning and she was not there to greet me. I know each day will get better but for now, I will live in the grief. I appreciate your kind words. 💗

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@Alwayslearning so sorry to hear about the loss of Bailey.  As a dog mama my entire life I know how hard that time is when it comes. I hope Bailey ran to the rainbow bridge and is now playing and running like a pup again.  I like to believe they will be waiting for us one day.🩵

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I took a walk this week around Sasamat Lake, a bit of a hike but I did it.  My friend took a picture and she captured something truly beautiful.  I like to think of it as a sign.  Then yesterday was my 1 year since my first chemotherapy and a friend and I did the Coquitlam Crunch which is a climb of 500 stairs.  It was tough but we made it.  I thought fitting choice considering where I was on my health journey this time last year.  I'm having my CT scan on Thursday and labs next week.  Praying CT scan remains clear. 🙏🏻🩵Hope there is sunshine for everyone this weekend no matter where you are😘🙏🏻🩵

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@LeslieA thank you for the kind words.  Yes, I truly believe we have all accomplished so much on this journey and we should all be proud of how far we have come.  Nature sure is good for the soul.

my oncologist does my scans every 3-4 months right now, this is just her preference I believe and she monitors my Ca-125 with bloodwork too.  Maybe with the niraparib and no genetic markers it out of precaution?  I'm not sure when she will change to every 6 months or a year scanning?  But she does say that most only scan when patients have symptoms.  I also have a lung nodule that grew 1mm last scan so that needs to be monitored though we don't suspect cancer there.

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