New here

• By magi
• Posted August 14, 2008 at 3:28 am

Hi Katia
I took the zometa infusion last January I think it helped me a lot. I was just like you desperate and felt sorry for myself at the beginning when I first broke my back this happened several times for me and I cannot describe the pain it was unbearable I had to stay in bed for several month every time I break or hurt my back and gained weight I also used the cane and a special corset this is not so bad it is much better than suffering from the pain, but now I feel much better the pain is becoming less and less and i can walk without a cane but I have to be careful and slowdown the pace of my life to avoid any accidents and eat proper food. So take care of yourself and everything will be Ok believe me.

• Reply
• Report post

• By kathleen1130
• Posted August 14, 2008 at 10:30 am

Hi Katia-
Boy, first of all you have survived breast cancer and now you get the pleasure of osteoporosis. If anyone can say that life isn't fair, my vote goes to you.

I just recently got a cane also (I'm38) I noticed that I was becoming a hermit and not getting out very often to enjoy life. I'm always afraid that I'm going to fall and break another vert or even a hip. The first time I used the cane, I felt that everyone was looking-but the nice thing was the number of people willing to hold the door, help carry things to my car,etc. I don't use it each time I leave the house, but when I do, it isn't as emotional as it was the first few times.

Hang in there Katia- You've already been though alot ! You have my respect and will be in my prayers. :)

• Reply
• Report post

• By BoneLady
• Posted August 14, 2008 at 12:14 pm

Hi, Katia,

Welcome to the group. Don't worry about the cane. I used one for a while when I got a herniated disc and pinched nerve. My husband is currently using one because he reinjured an old back injury and has trouble getting up from a sitting position.

Maybe you'll just need the cane temporarily until your balance issues are resolved. I would be interested in hearing how your tests turn out and if they determine what is causing your balance problems. I had dizziness and vertigo about ten months ago while taking Fosamax. I did not use a cane during that time, but I had to hang on to my husband's arm for stability. I understand what you're saying about feeling old and horrible, because that is exactly how I felt. I was afraid to take a shower or walk unassisted. I am much older than you, but not 100 years old, which is how I felt for a while.

Hang in there and keep us posted as to your progress.

• Reply
• Report post

• By KathyS
• Posted August 14, 2008 at 5:15 pm

Katia,

I too have to say wow, you are a "C" survivor. Not sure of the why's that you have osteo but chances are with chemo I can certainly see how it happened. Battling these things can bring on depression and you are a young woman, even if you don't feel as tho today. I had trouble accepting when I was told at 52 that I had osteo, can't imagine being younger with it. But we don't have much choice but to do battle with these things which afflict us and if a cane keeps you from breaking something until you get on a med which helps you so be it. I would suggest if you haven't to talk with your Dr and let them know how you are feeling about all the decisions you've had to make and see if there is something they can give you to get over the hump. (perhaps poor choice of word?) and do your research and settle on the best laid plan for your improvement. I had to do it, we all do. Be well and talk about it... it does get better.

KathyS

• Reply
• Report post

• By Katia
• Posted August 14, 2008 at 10:50 pm

Thank you all for your responses. I guess my attitude isn't in the best place as I have had over 25 surgeries in 22 years including cancer and went into menopause at 27. I was looking forward to the 2nd part of my life being a fun, healthy, illness free time. I had my kids young so I could be there for them and be a young mom and now they are helping me walk at 42...

Im just frustrated and upset. I will get over it, i always do but this wasnt how I planned the latter part of my life.

thank you so much for your kind words and your support. :)

Katia

• Reply
• Report post

• By Alli
• Posted August 15, 2008 at 7:28 am

Katia so sorry to hear what you are going through at this time. Be brave and strong for yourself. Human beings are so complex but knowledge is power.. osteoporosis is only as frightening as the power we give it. I found out last year that I have Osteoporosis but I have learned so much about it and know in my heart that I am stronger with all the changes that i have made. What are your scores? Life can be hard you say you had cancer too plus lots of surgeries..but I think you will find lots of help on this valuable board. The posters will help you along the way and you will understand your condition more. Get a journal and start writing down things you learn! Keep us posted and wishing you the best.

• Reply
• Report post

• By nobonesaboutit
• Posted August 15, 2008 at 8:20 am

Dear Katia,
My sister never had osteo until she had been taking the meds she had to take after breast cancer-those that decrease you estrogen even further. She has experienced horrible hot flashes and seems to be in denial about the osteo. She had a foot fracture and a broken rib so far this year. At least you are facing it head on and not ignoring it. I, too, had a cane at an early age-about 45. I had to use a walker before that. I was amazed how much the cane helped though I felt embarrassed having one too. It still is in the trunk of my car now. I went out and got one with flowers on it to cheer me up. After you've had some successful treatment, you'll be able to put yours away too. It just takes time and determination that you want to do things with your kids as a motivation. That was my motivation too. Good luck!

• Reply
• Report post

• By KathyS
• Posted August 15, 2008 at 4:14 pm

Sometimes when we think we just can't handle anymore something else trips us. I do have empathy for all the surgeries that you've had and now you want some health. It sounds like you can become stronger with meds but it takes time to do. don't give up on that belief. Like the poster who has her cane in her trunk you too will have that opportunity... And it's wonderful that your children help you. Sounds like a close family...

• Reply
• Report post

• By sdivas
• Posted August 15, 2008 at 4:43 pm

Katia, you've been through so much. Build on your past health issues that you have gotten through and trust that you will also work through having osteoporosis. Sandi

• Reply
• Report post

• By Anne_
• Posted August 23, 2008 at 8:12 am

Hi Katia,

Like you I am a cancer survivor & new to this site. I also have osteoporosis. Makes you wonder about the chemo huh? My drs. say they don't "think" it's the chemo while other drs. say it could be. I just don't know what else it would be. Other than small frame & early menopause (hysterectomy/oopherectomy-9 mths ago) I have no real risk factors. My dr.& my onc. think Reclast would be the best for me but like you, I'm scared to take it. That's what brought me to this site...to find out more. I'm going to get a 2nd opinion also to try & get more info. Good Luck to you.

• Reply
• Report post

• By jogger56
• Posted August 23, 2008 at 11:27 am

Katia, just wanted to let you know I had the Reclast infusion over a month ago and no side effects. Sometimes it seems we only hear about the adverse effects. Take care.

• Reply
• Report post

Add to the discussion