TNBC Talk - reflections of a grandfather (w/pic)

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reflections of a grandfather (w/pic)

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Topic: reflections of a grandfather (w/pic)

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Subject: reflections of a grandfather (w/pic)
Date Posted: Sep 07 2011 at 6:38am

Dear all,

as many of you may have seen, I have become a grandfather, again. A beautiful little boy born about ten days ago. My daughter is his mother and she is doing well as is the little guy. I wanted to share what is in my heart with you...since, after all, you are my family, too.

I am transfixed by this child. I just keep staring at him, and staring at him, and staring at him, as I hold him. I have found what I feel is one of his favorite spots. It’s a big chair we have in the family room, that I sit in with him, and I have a way of holding him with his head gently nestled in the crook of my left arm and his body is supported by my arm and my belly. He generally falls asleep when I hold him, that way, and I am truly in heaven when he does...

He seems to know my voice...does he see me? I think he does and yes every once in awhile he has this lovely smile...yeah, yeah I know-probably gas Smile

but I like to think he is smiling at me. And sometimes he breathes very fast and I gently rub his chest and tell him that “Grandpa loves you” and he quiets down and his breathing becomes more regular.

I also watch my wife with him, my daughter and son-in-law with him and I marvel at the love that surrounds this child and that warms my heart as well. My daughter and wife, separately, read him a book yesterday with such expressiveness. Their love for him filled me with incredible joy.

There is just something about him...that transports me to another place. I keep telling my wife, daughter and SIL, over and over “isn’t he beautiful...isn’t he wonderful?” I get these smiles in return and a “yes, honey” or “yes, Daddy” or “yes, Steve” and I realize I am saying it too much and that I am probably turning into one of those obnoxious grandfathers so I will probably not say it so much but in my singing heart I say it to myself over and over..."look at this marvelous child...soooooo lovely...little one, your presence graces our lives...I love you.....be healthy, my sweet child.” Writing “my sweet child” just now made me realize that I don’t think of him, solely, as a grandchild but as an extension of my daughter, somehow. Yes, yes, I know he is my grandson, not my son, but the feelings I have for him can’t be categorized so precisely. The love I have for my daughter, which has been incredibly profound for 31 years, is now also shared with my grandson. It is like he is a part of her and I love him as I love her. I am afraid I am perhaps incoherent so I shall stop going down that path. I think you guys get it. Smile

And my wife told me, yesterday, to continue to follow my heart regarding my advocacy work. So, I am off to MD Anderson today to be with a patient who got some very tough news yesterday. I realize that my grandson fills my heart but so does my work. Hopefully, with his help, I will find some balance. When I am with him, I am able to put cancer aside for some moments. Yes, it’s always there but when I have him in my arms, I have him in my arms and the world looks more hopeful. He truly, truly, fills my heart with joy. Thank you little one for being you.

I tell folks here, often, to please try to find the beauty in each day. Well, each time I hold my grandson I realize I have found it.

my love to all,

Steve

p.s. I wrote above..”I realize I am saying it too much..” and I think back maybe 6 months ago and I was out with my adored granddaughter, age 10, for dinner..just the two of us. There is a restaurant called Scott’s in Palo Alto and they have white butcher block paper on the table instead of tablecloths. It was very busy that night and the service was very slow, so I moved the plates to one side and started to write “I love you, always, Grandpa” and my granddaughter watched me so silently, yet intently, as I wrote. I filled up the whole sheet (literally maybe 100 times) with this message and I said to her “Grandpa went a bit over the top, huh?” and she looked at me so seriously and said “Grandpa when you love someone as much as you love me you can never tell them ‘I love you’ too often.” Wisdom from the mouth of babes that went straight to my heart. I began to cry at her words and her sincerity and her love for me and her realization of how much I love her. She came to me and comforted me and said “Grandpa, sorry, I didn’t mean to make you cry.” "No, sweetheart, they are tears of joy. We are so lucky to have it each other. It is just so beautiful.” And, as always, she understood. My little soulmate. She ‘gets’ me. So maybe it’s o.k. that I keep telling the world, for awhile, how beautiful my grandson is. I have a feeling you guys will let me know when it is too much... Smile

-------------
I am a BRCA1+ grandson, son and father of women affected by breast/oc-my daughter inherited mutation from me, and at 36, was dx 2004 TNBC I am a volunteer patient advocate with SAGE Patient Advocates

Replies:

Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Sep 07 2011 at 7:50am

Steve,

Such sweet words and reflections of loving your grandchild. You are truly finding the beauty in each day. I'm so happy for you and your family. You deserve this happiness.

PS: Your outpouring of love for your family never gets old. It's one of the reasons you care for all of us so much.

Hugs,
Donna

-------------
DX IDC TNBC 6/09 age 49, Stage 1,Grade 3, 1.5cm,0/5Nodes,KI-67 48%,BRCA-,6/09bi-mx, recon, T/C X4(9/09)
11/10 Recur IM node, Gem,Carb,Iniparib 12/10,MRI NED 2/11,IMRT Radsx40,CT NED11/13,MRI NED3/15

Posted By: HappyGoLucky
Date Posted: Sep 07 2011 at 12:05pm

I feel the love you have for your grandchildren. Its ethereal and magical too. I held my grandbabies and felt like they were from me. Counted their lashes and stared at them as they breathe. God has given us this gift when life reproduces itself. And you most assuredly deserve every I love you you can utter to Ethan! I enjoy reading about him.

Karen

Posted By: janet c.
Date Posted: Sep 07 2011 at 2:51pm

Steve,
You have a way with words. I could just see that precious baby smiling. We could never get tired of hearing such good news. I know it puts a smile on my face. I just adore babies. The only problem with them is that they grow up too quickly. My oldest son is now a senior in college. It feels like I was just bringing him to
pre-k and I was hysterical crying with my husband in the car. Life just flies by in the blink of an eye. Enjoy your family. You definitely deserve it for all that you do for everyone.
Janet

-------------
dx 12/08 @47yrs.old TNBC stage 2a grade 3, 2.1cm. partial mastectomy sentinal node negative BRACA negative Cytocan/Taxatere x4 radiation 36 or 38rounds

Posted By: mindy555
Date Posted: Sep 07 2011 at 4:52pm

It will never grow old for me Steve- please write more about your family and beautiful new grandson whenever your heart desires. It fills my heart with joy for you. I know the joy my 5 grand babes bring me- 3 of my daughters sweet girls and my fiance's grands Lily our 3 year old and Dax who just celebrated 6 months old.. And hey, they're mine too! So there. :)

Boy do I understand and relate to staring and studying those precious beings for hours on end.

Enjoy!!!!

Posted By: mindy555
Date Posted: Sep 07 2011 at 5:02pm

Ethan... I love that name. I'm sure he's quite a boy!

Please don't stop sharing your beautifully expressed feelings about Ethan with us!!! I so adored you writing about your granddaughter. What a prize! It's true. Out of the mouth of babes... you can never talk about this beautiful boy too much... express how wonderful he is too much... tell everyone how much you love him too much.. I promise you that!!!! I love your granddaughter.. she's a gem!

I'm grateful we're your extended family and I'll be disappointed if I don't get a regular Ethan update. I want to hear it all.. your eloquent writing draws me in to all those amazing feelings Ethan brings you. What a true joy to read.

It reminds me of each of my own little blessings and how much each one of my grands with their own distinct little personalities has totally enriched my life. They're all so different and endearing in their own special way. My love for them is so deep words escape me. But I'm not much of a writer.. ha.

So please don't stop writing about this blessed boy now. We need more of this kind of thing on this forum.. and remember all the joyful aspects of our own lives.

You and Ethan have it going on. :) You're SO blessed to have each other.

Just know... hearing about Ethan is now my MOST favorite part this forum and I'm sure others here share my sentiments... :)

So there! Again! :) I look forward to more!!!! May I hold you to that? :)

Posted By: dmwolf
Date Posted: Sep 07 2011 at 5:18pm

Steve, that was SO beautiful. Thanks for sharing this experience with us. Ethan is incredibly lucky to have you.
love,
d
(you made me smile on bart all the way to work)

-------------
DX 2/08@43 stg II IDC; gr2,0 nodes. Neoadj chemo, first ACx2 (fail) then CarboTaxotereX6(better). Lump, Rads done 11/08; Clodronate. False alarm queen: PetCT lung & TM marker. NED. PBM w/recon 9/10.

Posted By: HappyGoLucky
Date Posted: Sep 07 2011 at 5:40pm

Yes we definitely should have an Ethan thread to make our lives more enriched....to grow with him and Steve .

Posted By: harbin
Date Posted: Sep 07 2011 at 8:25pm

Dear Steve, What a proud grandpa. Thank you for sharing your moment of happiness with us. You are such an amazing person and you have a big heart. We are so lucky to have you in this community too. - Harbin

-------------
4/08 dx IDC,stg2,neg. nodes,4xAC,8xTexol& Avastin,BRCA-
3/10 Recurr Chestwall,surgery
6/10 Lung mets
10/10 Parp
05/11 Surgery on 2 lung nodules
08/11 Parp failed
10/11 Cyberknife 1 lung nodule

Posted By: abcmom
Date Posted: Sep 07 2011 at 8:35pm

Steve-

That is just beautiful! I am glad you shared your story with us. You have such a wonderful way with words and such a wonderful heart! I think it is so awesome the love you have for your grandchildren.

Hugs, Keri

-------------
Diag 11/06/09 @ 40; Diag w/ TNBC Stage IIA, Grade 3 12/01/09 Node Neg. Dble MX with Recon 12/09 (twice)
Chemo 1/13/10 Chemo done 4/22/10 More recon surg 07/10, PET/CT Scan clear 07/10 NED 07/11

Posted By: Shelly Rae
Date Posted: Sep 07 2011 at 10:23pm

Steve I hear what you are saying about grandchildren. My Granddaughter is 5 today. She is such a blessing to everyone who knows her. She very well could of not been born due to my daughter being in her senior year of high school when she found out she was having her and being scared. I have to say in five years a ton has changed. Mother and Father are married. Father has his 4 year degree from a private college. Mother has gotten her a 2 year degree while working full time and my granddaughter started kindergarten this year. She is such a wise child and really lights up a room when she walks in. Of course this is a Grandma speaking. LOL

-------------
4/09 age 47 Stage 3a, Gr 3,1 node micro ACx4 Tx4 Rads x 33, done Dec.1,2009 NED

Posted By: nmunoz
Date Posted: Sep 07 2011 at 10:44pm

Beautiful Steve. Thank you!

Un abrazote,

Natalia

-------------
Natalia, 38 years

Dx TNBC 10/22/08, BRCA1+

Double Mx 11/20/08 with Recon.

3/37 nodes

Rads 7 weeks done 8/09

ACx4 every 2 weeks and Tx12 weeks. Avastin e/3 weeksx10 (Clinical Trial) Done Dec/09

Posted By: Debris
Date Posted: Sep 08 2011 at 2:24am

Steve, I can only echo what others have said.

It is sooo good to be able to share in these special moments of joy and wonder with you.

Thanks for all you share on this forum.

Deborah.

-------------
4/12 Xeloda/Tykerb
2 Carboplatin
12/11 Dx IA
9 Gemzar/Taxotere Dx IBC:FEC
5 Ixempra/Sprycel
2 25 Rad
10/10 BRCA1-/2suv
9 NED
6 Stg4 Grd3 many nodes no Sx/Rad. Taxol/Avastin
06/08 Dx DCIS 0/SN Rads/AIs

Posted By: DianeEE
Date Posted: Sep 08 2011 at 2:40pm

Thanks for sharing your positive thoughts, Steve. It's so nice to read positive, life-affirming messages from you. It brings back memories of when my sons were infants. It doesn't seem like that long ago even though they are 10 and 12 now. Yes, please keep sharing. It's helps me to remember to be positive when life with 2 preteen boys gets crazy!

Diane

-------------
DX 11/2010 age 43,BRCA2+,6 rounds TAC,bx mast/ovary removal 5/2011,TNBC tumor 5.1 cm,02/14 nodes positive,37 rads,Cisplatin&PARP trial.Recurrence 2/2012,TN IBC,Abraxane didn't work, Ixempra & Xeloda

Posted By: Barbi
Date Posted: Sep 08 2011 at 7:38pm

Thanks for sharing Steve. You are verbalizing what so many of us have felt with our children and grandchildren, and what we all live for - unconditional love going one way or the other and hopefully both ways. And I believe you will find the balance you need - just follow your heart. I think I speak for many when I say how much we appreciate your posts, your email and calls, your visits to those that need it, your assistance in finding the right doctors. And all of us want to see you spending the precious time with your family, as well.

Love from us all.

-------------
10/10,age49,St3,gr3,5+cm,1 node,BRCA-,T+Cisplatin+Rad0001(or placebo),Lump 1+cm,AND 0/15,AC,rads finished 7/6/11.Mets bone, liver,mamm node 8/11,abrax/tigatuzamab failed.Started bicalutamide 11/16/11.

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Sep 14 2011 at 11:39pm

Taken September 14th, 2011

Posted By: Genie
Date Posted: Sep 14 2011 at 11:42pm

Steve, what a beautiful picture! Thank you so much for sharing! The love you have for Ethan shines through in this photo. This made my day.

Hugs from San Antonio,
Genie

-------------
DX 3/10/08 at age 67, IDC. Stage 1, Grade 3, 1.5 cm.
KI-67 99% at MX . Bilateral mastectomy 4/1/08 Node-, BRCA 1/2-,BARD1+, TX:Cytoxan/Taxotere x4,3 in family with TNBC

Posted By: DianeEE
Date Posted: Sep 14 2011 at 11:45pm

Oh My! What a beautiful picture; so peaceful. Thanks for sharing--

Big hugs from Michigan too--

Diane

Posted By: kirby
Date Posted: Sep 14 2011 at 11:56pm

Steve,

That is a beautiful picture.

-------------
kirby

dx Feb. 2001. Age 44
Lumpectomy

2cm. no nodes stage 1 grade 3

4 rnds AC, 35 rads

Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Sep 15 2011 at 12:42am

Oh Steve, such a precious picture of the two of you. I love it!

Donna

-------------
DX IDC TNBC 6/09 age 49, Stage 1,Grade 3, 1.5cm,0/5Nodes,KI-67 48%,BRCA-,6/09bi-mx, recon, T/C X4(9/09)
11/10 Recur IM node, Gem,Carb,Iniparib 12/10,MRI NED 2/11,IMRT Radsx40,CT NED11/13,MRI NED3/15

Posted By: mindy555
Date Posted: Sep 15 2011 at 9:44am

Priceless. Such a precious picture, Steve. Simply beautiful. <3

Posted By: Charlene
Date Posted: Sep 15 2011 at 10:01am

Beautiful picture, Steve! Thanks for sharing! You are very blessed!

Charlene

-------------
DX 3/10 @59 ILC/TNBC
Stage 1, Grade 2, Multifocal; Lumpectomy/re-excision
SNB 0/4 nodes, BRCA-; Taxotere/Cytoxan X4, 30 rads
3/14:NED

Posted By: HappyGoLucky
Date Posted: Sep 15 2011 at 4:56pm

Simplly joy well he will adore you just wait till he lifts his tiny head up to look at you .

Can he make a face yet?

All the Best, Karen

-------------
2/2009 7cm tumor, sent nod. pos. Lumpectomy 3/19/09,a/c dose dense+avastin clinical trial, taxol avastin stopped with pneumonia. 33 Rads 01/2010 ~ reccur 2011 supraclav.and internal mammary nodes. rad

Posted By: Lillie
Date Posted: Sep 15 2011 at 5:24pm

Dear Steve,
Ethan resembles his grandpa from the standpoint of 'peaceful', 'serene', . What a GREAT picture.

Thanks and God Bless,
Lillie

-------------
Dx 6/06 age 65,IDC-TNBC
Stage IIb,Gr3,2cm,BRCA-
6/06 L/Mast/w/SNB,1of3 Nodes+
6/06 Axl. 9 nodes-
8/8 thru 11/15 Chemo (Clin-Trial) DD A/Cx4 -- DD taxol+gemzar x4
No Rads.
No RECON - 11/2018-12 yrs NED

Posted By: dmwolf
Date Posted: Sep 15 2011 at 5:41pm

Such a gorgeous picture. I never get tired of looking at it. Lucky boy, lucky grandpa.
love,d

-------------
DX 2/08@43 stg II IDC; gr2,0 nodes. Neoadj chemo, first ACx2 (fail) then CarboTaxotereX6(better). Lump, Rads done 11/08; Clodronate. False alarm queen: PetCT lung & TM marker. NED. PBM w/recon 9/10.

Posted By: abcmom
Date Posted: Sep 15 2011 at 6:08pm

Steve, that is a beautiful picture!!! Thanks for sharing! Just puts a big smile on my face!

Keri

Posted By: LRM216
Date Posted: Sep 15 2011 at 8:07pm

Such a picture of true, pure love and beauty. Thank you, Steve. He is as handsome as his grandfather!

-------------
Linda - diagnosed at age 62
Diag 2/23/09 IDC 1.2 cent. IDC right breast,Stage 1, Grade 3,0/1 nodes - Triple Neg
4 DD AC every two weeks, 1 Dd Taxol, then 3 Taxotere every three weeks - rads x 33

Posted By: Barbi
Date Posted: Sep 15 2011 at 11:21pm

Beautiful baby and picture! Congrats again, Steve.

-------------
10/10,age49,St3,gr3,5+cm,1 node,BRCA-,T+Cisplatin+Rad0001(or placebo),Lump 1+cm,AND 0/15,AC,rads finished 7/6/11.Mets bone, liver,mamm node 8/11,abrax/tigatuzamab failed.Started bicalutamide 11/16/11.

Posted By: HappyGoLucky
Date Posted: Sep 16 2011 at 8:38am

Steve

that photo belongs on book album A hardcover album with your writings in it for ethan.

It is so lovely and serene to look at.

could look at that all day

makes me feel good

Karen

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Oct 14 2011 at 7:09am

an update...where did the month go?

Mommy and baby came to Los Angeles on Saturday for a nine day visit. There will be a baby shower tomorrow in San Diego. The only ones in my family who have not seen Ethan are my son, DIL, and my two grandchildren..They are coming tonight for the weekend so it will be wonderful for them to see him and for me to see them. I get to have a sleepover with my grandchildren for two nights...a very special treat.

Back to Master Ethan. He continues to enthrall me. It seems he is really developing a marvelous smile, at times, and seems to relate to voice and focuses on faces, at times. I believe he is starting to know who we are. He is a lovely, lovely little boy and brings us such joy.

One of traits that is difficult on the family is the fact that I always worry, too much, when anyone is sick. It makes it tough on my loved ones. I think I am a bit better than I used to be, but probably not much Smile

So, two days ago, the little guy seems to have developed a cold and I suggest we take him to a pediatrician to see if everything is o.k. before his flight on Monday morning. "We will be in San Diego over the weekend and if he gets worse, no one will be around, and we will wind up in the emergency room..not a great place to take a seven week baby. I think we should have the doc listen to his chest.”

My daughter is skeptical, call her doc in PA and she agrees, so off we go and the pediatrician is very nice and gives us a bunch of advice and even draws some blood which the little guy did not appreciate...

There seems to be an “epidemic" of whooping cough in California from what the doctor told us. I pray he does not have that because evidently you can’t inoculate a baby until 6 months. He is seven weeks today. In any event, I saw the look on my daughter’s face as the doctor was talking and seeing how upset she was when he was crying from the stick in his foot. Later that night, I said to her...”I don’t think you guys could understand why I worried the way I did until you were a parent yourself.” She agreed and now she “gets it.” I said to her...”you probably will feel protective towards him the rest of your life...no matter his age...I still feel the same way about you and you are 31. It never stops"...at least for me, it doesn’t.

One special bonus...Ethan doesn’t seem to mind my singing....My wife, daughter and I sang “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” to him the other day and he gave us a big smile. He really seemed to like it. Last night we went out for pizza and my daughter’s order was messed up so I quickly ate mine and then walked with him outside the restaurant for 20 minutes of heaven. First I held him so that he was looking at the sky. I don’t know what he sees but he seems to love looking at the sky. It was still somewhat light out and the sky was a beautiful color...Then he got a bit restless so I turned him over and held him like a football with his head in the crook of my arm and my other arm under his belly with my hand on his belly/chest and as we walked I brought him up to my lips and kissed him and then sang something I haven’t sung in maybe 30 years...an old Hebrew lullaby. Tumbalalaika. I just realized I have been singing it for 40 years without knowing the translation.

from the lullaby..”it’s love that can burn for many years” and the love I have for my wife, children and grandchildren shall always ‘burn.’ I have been blessed with my family (and my TNBC Foundation family)and this little boy, especially, and I wanted to share the lullaby with you and at the same time, kindly sparing you from my off-key singing...but so far, my little friend is not complaining.. Smile

all the best,

Steve

TUMBALALAIKA	Yiddish - PLAY BALALAIKA
http://israelidances.com/Audio/Tumbalalayka%20%28C%29%20Rivka%20Sturman%20_%201970%20_%20.ram">
טומבאלאלייקא
Shteyt a bocher, shteyt un tracht, tracht un tracht a gantze nacht. Vemen tsu nemen un nit far shemen, vemen tsu nemen un nit far shemen. Refrain: Tumbala, tumbala, tumbalalaika, Tumbala, tumbala, tumbalalaika tumbalalaika, shpiel balalaika tumbalalaika - freylach zol zayn. Meydl, meydl, ch'vel bay dir fregen, Vos kan vaksn, vaksn on regn? Vos kon brenen un nit oyfhern? Vos kon benken, veynen on treren? Narisher bocher, vos darfstu fregn? A shteyn ken vaksn, vaksn on regn. Libeh ken brenen un nit oyfhern. A harts kon benkn, veynen on treren.	A young lad is thinking, thinking all night Would it be wrong, he asks, or maybe right, Should he declare his love, dare he choose, And would she accept, or will she refuse? Chorus: Tumbala, tumbala, tumbalalaika, Tumbala, tumbala, tumbalalaika tumbalalaika, play Balalaika, tumbalalaika - let us be merry. Maiden, maiden tell me again What can grow, grow without rain, What can burn for many years, What can long and cry without tears? Silly young lad, why ask again? It's a stone that can grow, grow without rain, It's love that can burn for many long years, A the heart that can yearn and cry without tears.

Posted By: LRM216
Date Posted: Oct 14 2011 at 9:06am

As always, a beautiful post that brought tears to my eyes, as I can so relate to every word you wrote. So happy for you that you had this time together. How is little Ethan faring with his cold? I hope it did not develop into anything more than that and that he is either on the mend or completely over it. It's always so hard to see a tiny one out of sorts with anything.

The lullabye is beautiful and, again, I can relate well to the love that will always "burn" for your children and wife. Love never stops burning - and the warmth of that love is felt eternally.

Be well, dear friend.

I am so happy for you and your family,

Linda

-------------
Linda - diagnosed at age 62
Diag 2/23/09 IDC 1.2 cent. IDC right breast,Stage 1, Grade 3,0/1 nodes - Triple Neg
4 DD AC every two weeks, 1 Dd Taxol, then 3 Taxotere every three weeks - rads x 33

Posted By: HappyGoLucky
Date Posted: Oct 14 2011 at 3:01pm

That's a beautiful lullaby. So sweet, hope he get rid of his cold

soon.

Karen

Posted By: TNBC_in_NS
Date Posted: Oct 14 2011 at 3:19pm

Oh my goodness Steve,

I didn't see this picture of you and Ethan....

It is wonderful and just how I picture you with him. So peaceful and content!

I am so glad that Ethan has come to visit and meet his other Aunt, Uncle & Cousins....He is so young to be congested. Maybe if you set up a vapourizer in his room, may take some of the stuffiness away. The change in the weather can sometimes fill them up, especially this young. Don't worry about the whooping cough, Ethan is protected by his mom's immune system up to 6 months. Enjoy him and have a wonderful visit with your lovely family!

Hugs, h.

Your sister on the East Coast

-------------
Diag@57TNBC04/092.5cm Lquad 05/09 TCx4Radsx30CT03/01/10 FU03/31/10ClearBRCA- 01/2011 RTNBC BMX 06/14/2011~2013 clear

Posted By: nmunoz
Date Posted: Oct 14 2011 at 3:33pm

Thank you Steve!

I finally understood my parent's nonsense worrying when I became a mother. Every time my little man gets sick I'm debating whether to take him to the doctor or not as after many visits I am sure that his worse colds he caught at the doctor's office... But most of the time I end up there anyway

.

It makes me really happy to know how much you are enjoying your grandson.

Un abrazote,

Natalia

-------------
Natalia, 38 years

Dx TNBC 10/22/08, BRCA1+

Double Mx 11/20/08 with Recon.

3/37 nodes

Rads 7 weeks done 8/09

ACx4 every 2 weeks and Tx12 weeks. Avastin e/3 weeksx10 (Clinical Trial) Done Dec/09

Posted By: Barbi
Date Posted: Oct 14 2011 at 4:06pm

OK Steve, obviously you have all of us crying those Hallmark tears! I also cry at AT&T commercials where someone is always calling home. I just visualize you and Ethan outside walking and the joy you felt, stealing those precious minutes alone with him.

All good wishes,

Posted By: denise07
Date Posted: Oct 14 2011 at 5:07pm

Steve,

What a great picture.I love the name ETHAN, so adorable.

-------------
DX Idc 10/07,st2,gr3,2/6 lymphnodes

Posted By: trip2
Date Posted: Oct 14 2011 at 5:23pm

That picture is so filled with love! Just beautiful..

Posted By: Horse Lover
Date Posted: Oct 14 2011 at 8:28pm

Steve: Thanks for sharing...the beautiful picture and the update! Enjoy, enjoy....

-------------
57 years old, mother of two daughters. 5/09 lumpectomy, rad; 3/11 C/T 6X, clear scans; 9/11 bilateral/lymph nodes surgery, NED

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Oct 14 2011 at 9:06pm

Thanks all for your lovely comments and wishes..

update...wonderful news from pediatrician this morning...no whooping cough...whew!!!!

Sister Helen- doc recommended a humidifier that we have been using and steam showers that fill the bathroom with steam....both seem to be helping...

hugs to all,

Steve

p.s. I got a ton of smiles from him, today...I am delighted!!!!

Posted By: Debris
Date Posted: Oct 14 2011 at 10:29pm

Steve, how wonderful for us to be able to share in the love and joy you have with/for Ethan. He is a lucky boy, to have you for his Grandpa. (As are all your family, and us, you extended family, to have you in our lives.)

We look forward to hearing of many more milestones - smiles, giggles, and everything!

Deborah.

-------------
4/12 Xeloda/Tykerb
2 Carboplatin
12/11 Dx IA
9 Gemzar/Taxotere Dx IBC:FEC
5 Ixempra/Sprycel
2 25 Rad
10/10 BRCA1-/2suv
9 NED
6 Stg4 Grd3 many nodes no Sx/Rad. Taxol/Avastin
06/08 Dx DCIS 0/SN Rads/AIs

Posted By: cheeks
Date Posted: Oct 14 2011 at 11:21pm

Steve,

All I can do is smile when I looked at the picture of you with your grandson (well, a few tears too at the beauty of all you say) and the beautiful song - I think I have heard it before from a dear friend who is a Cantor.

Bless you and your family,

Blair

-------------
Lump found 11/08
DX: 2/09 @52 TNBC
L. Mast. 3/26/09, SN-, BRCA-,
4.5 cm (post surgical)T2NOMO
Chemo: 4/09-10/09 Taxol x 12,
A/C x 4, No rad.No recon. NED 1/17. New Primary right breast TN, 2/2018.

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Oct 16 2011 at 10:13pm

Posted By: TNBC_in_NS
Date Posted: Oct 17 2011 at 11:39am

Steve:

Am I the only one who could not open your new picture? Help.....

-------------
Diag@57TNBC04/092.5cm Lquad 05/09 TCx4Radsx30CT03/01/10 FU03/31/10ClearBRCA- 01/2011 RTNBC BMX 06/14/2011~2013 clear

Posted By: HappyGoLucky
Date Posted: Oct 17 2011 at 2:07pm

Hi Steve

I tried with my gmail account to see it but no go. Hope the party was great.

Like to see Ethan and see how much hes grown.

Love

Karen

Posted By: cheeks
Date Posted: Oct 17 2011 at 5:18pm

i cant get into my gmail acct. to see it either.

-------------
Lump found 11/08
DX: 2/09 @52 TNBC
L. Mast. 3/26/09, SN-, BRCA-,
4.5 cm (post surgical)T2NOMO
Chemo: 4/09-10/09 Taxol x 12,
A/C x 4, No rad.No recon. NED 1/17. New Primary right breast TN, 2/2018.

Posted By: Debris
Date Posted: Oct 18 2011 at 11:33pm

Steve, we need help! None of us can open the picture and we are in need of our Ethan / Grandpa updates!

Hope all is going well with you?

Deborah

-------------
4/12 Xeloda/Tykerb
2 Carboplatin
12/11 Dx IA
9 Gemzar/Taxotere Dx IBC:FEC
5 Ixempra/Sprycel
2 25 Rad
10/10 BRCA1-/2suv
9 NED
6 Stg4 Grd3 many nodes no Sx/Rad. Taxol/Avastin
06/08 Dx DCIS 0/SN Rads/AIs

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Oct 18 2011 at 11:54pm

Thanks Uncle Sean, Love Ethan

Posted By: TNBC_in_NS
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 12:02am

Oh my dear, what a sweetheart! That is definitely a smile for grandfather for sure! He is so gorgeous and very worth waiting to see! Big hugs to you and yours Steve!

-------------
Diag@57TNBC04/092.5cm Lquad 05/09 TCx4Radsx30CT03/01/10 FU03/31/10ClearBRCA- 01/2011 RTNBC BMX 06/14/2011~2013 clear

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 12:03am

So, I edited the first post out, with apologies that no one could open the picture..

I continue to be entranced by this young man...

He gives me the balance I need...

I simply adore him...

He has changed so much in 7+ weeks....I especially love the fact that he really focuses on people now and smiles at them...My heart just melts when he does..

thanks for all your beautiful comments and good wishes,

Steve

p.s. my son came to the rescue and posted Ethan’s picture..

Posted By: harbin
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 1:02am

Dear Steve, What a precious and sweet baby Ethan. The weekend family gathering must have been wonderful, much love and joy. -harbin

Posted By: cheeks
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 3:06am

Steve,

The picture made me smile - i love babies, have two sons of my own now 26 and 28. Rocking them always calmed me - that's what i need, a baby to rock! He is beautiful and i am so happy for you. Our older son is getting married in 3 weeks but i dare not suggest a baby for me to rock although they have been together for 4 years. Hug

So, I will enjoy your joy.

Blair

Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 7:54am

So precious Steve. Ethan is adorable.

Donna

-------------
DX IDC TNBC 6/09 age 49, Stage 1,Grade 3, 1.5cm,0/5Nodes,KI-67 48%,BRCA-,6/09bi-mx, recon, T/C X4(9/09)
11/10 Recur IM node, Gem,Carb,Iniparib 12/10,MRI NED 2/11,IMRT Radsx40,CT NED11/13,MRI NED3/15

Posted By: LauraT
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 8:07am

I know I'm going to have a good day now! He is adorable - love that smile and those bright eyes!

Laura

-------------
DX 10/09 @44, Stage I IDC tnbc, DCIS other side, Neoadjuvant TCx4, Bilateral Mastectomy w/Recon 1/10, 1.2cm 0/7 Nodes, 5/11 Mets to Lungs/Lymph Nodes, Avastin/Taxol, 10/11 Bone Mets, Xgeva

Posted By: Charlene
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 9:03am

What a beautiful, beautiful smile! Thanks for sharing!

Charlene

-------------
DX 3/10 @59 ILC/TNBC
Stage 1, Grade 2, Multifocal; Lumpectomy/re-excision
SNB 0/4 nodes, BRCA-; Taxotere/Cytoxan X4, 30 rads
3/14:NED

Posted By: Lillie
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 9:07am

Dear Steve,
OK! I'm on the way to hold and cuddle little Ethan.
Well, I can dream, can't I.

Ethan is a total masterpiece. Those eyes and that smile. I can see how he would keep your world in check.

God Bless,
Lillie

-------------
Dx 6/06 age 65,IDC-TNBC
Stage IIb,Gr3,2cm,BRCA-
6/06 L/Mast/w/SNB,1of3 Nodes+
6/06 Axl. 9 nodes-
8/8 thru 11/15 Chemo (Clin-Trial) DD A/Cx4 -- DD taxol+gemzar x4
No Rads.
No RECON - 11/2018-12 yrs NED

Posted By: HappyGoLucky
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 9:10am

Steve

Hes so adorable....you make me smile.

Karen

Posted By: Genie
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 9:21am

What a precious little angel! You are so blessed!
Genie

-------------
DX 3/10/08 at age 67, IDC. Stage 1, Grade 3, 1.5 cm.
KI-67 99% at MX . Bilateral mastectomy 4/1/08 Node-, BRCA 1/2-,BARD1+, TX:Cytoxan/Taxotere x4,3 in family with TNBC

Posted By: LRM216
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 9:23am

What a honeybun little Ethan is! Wish I could pick him up and cuddle and kiss him a whole bunch!

-------------
Linda - diagnosed at age 62
Diag 2/23/09 IDC 1.2 cent. IDC right breast,Stage 1, Grade 3,0/1 nodes - Triple Neg
4 DD AC every two weeks, 1 Dd Taxol, then 3 Taxotere every three weeks - rads x 33

Posted By: Barbi
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 10:22am

Know you are loving that smile, Steve! Ethan is beautiful (and I'm sure it's OK to call boys that for a couple of years, at least!). Thanks for sharing.

-------------
10/10,age49,St3,gr3,5+cm,1 node,BRCA-,T+Cisplatin+Rad0001(or placebo),Lump 1+cm,AND 0/15,AC,rads finished 7/6/11.Mets bone, liver,mamm node 8/11,abrax/tigatuzamab failed.Started bicalutamide 11/16/11.

Posted By: mindy555
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 11:12am

Ethan is gorgeous... with a smile that I know melts your heart. Keep posting these pictures, Steve.
This precious boy brightens our day. :)

Posted By: mindy555
Date Posted: Oct 19 2011 at 11:54am

steve wrote:

Thanks all for your lovely comments and wishes..

update...wonderful news from pediatrician this morning...no whooping cough...whew!!!!

Sister Helen- doc recommended a humidifier that we have been using and steam showers that fill the bathroom with steam....both seem to be helping...

hugs to all,

Steve

p.s. I got a ton of smiles from him, today...I am delighted!!!!

Oh thank goodness Steve. I was so worried when you told me it could be whooping cough. Wishing you many more smiles from your beautiful Ethan.

Best Wishes for you and your entire gorgeous family.

Hugs Mindy

Posted By: trip2
Date Posted: Oct 23 2011 at 8:36pm

Ethan is such a little cutie and growing! My goodness, so sweet, just makes you smile to see that little boy!

Posted By: MsBliss
Date Posted: Oct 23 2011 at 11:18pm

Dear Steve,
I agree with your granddaughter, it's never too much.
Keep it coming....
Much love,
Bliss

-------------
Dx 3/09 stg1 BRCA neg, 1.4cm IDC + 7mm DCIS, ki67 70 -90%, lump w/re-ex for margin, no chemo/no rads due to delays from secondary health issues; SonoCine every 6 months plus CAM interventions

Posted By: Pink Warrior
Date Posted: Oct 24 2011 at 3:53am

Absolutely beautiful.

-------------
Dx:10/09,IDC Stg 2,Gr 3,TN
BRCA 1&2 -
Partial DD EC/AC
Local recur 11/10
BMX 12/10 Right proph
TC x 4 Rads x 33
9/11 Skin mets, mediastinal & hilar nodes
Abraxane/Avastin

Posted By: abcmom
Date Posted: Oct 26 2011 at 10:06pm

Aww, Steve, my trio ended up getting RSV once, I did the humidifier and also I elevated their crib at the head part or let them sleep in their swing or car carrier so they were elevated. It helped.

Hugs,

Keri

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Nov 08 2011 at 10:10pm

Dear all,

Ethan got a new swing today and it seems he wanted to express how much he likes it....

This little guy is growing like a weed and I am so happy with his babbling...he continues to fill my heart.

My daughter and SIL in the background..

Hope you guys can see it...I previewed the post and I could download the video it but that doesn’t mean you can, huh?...hopefully someone will let me know if it is working or not...

I just edited the link out and will try to get it fixed...sorry for the trouble...

hugs and love,

Steve

Posted By: kirby
Date Posted: Nov 08 2011 at 10:12pm

it didn't work for me Steve...but that's not saying a whole lot. It downloaded to google homepage ! Twice !

-------------
kirby

dx Feb. 2001. Age 44
Lumpectomy

2cm. no nodes stage 1 grade 3

4 rnds AC, 35 rads

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Nov 08 2011 at 10:27pm

Dear Kirby,

thanks...I will wait for one more response and if not workable I will try to elicit my son’s help...just called him and I think he is out for dinner and I am bone tired so, if I don’t hear from him soon, manana...

all the best,

Steve

Posted By: LRM216
Date Posted: Nov 08 2011 at 11:03pm

Me too - took me to google page.

-------------
Linda - diagnosed at age 62
Diag 2/23/09 IDC 1.2 cent. IDC right breast,Stage 1, Grade 3,0/1 nodes - Triple Neg
4 DD AC every two weeks, 1 Dd Taxol, then 3 Taxotere every three weeks - rads x 33

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Nov 10 2011 at 6:11pm

This young man continues to delight me. With all the tough days around this site, I hope this picture will bring some joy to all of you.

With my love,

Steve

Posted By: abcmom
Date Posted: Nov 10 2011 at 6:14pm

How precious! I wouldn't be able to put him down!

Keri

Posted By: LRM216
Date Posted: Nov 10 2011 at 6:47pm

Want to reach into this picture, pick this bundle of joy and love up and kiss him and hug him forever! Keri said it - he is absolutely precious.

How lucky you are that you have him in your life,

Linda

Posted By: Barbi
Date Posted: Nov 10 2011 at 7:29pm

What beautiful, big, brown eyes!!!

-------------
10/10,age49,St3,gr3,5+cm,1 node,BRCA-,T+Cisplatin+Rad0001(or placebo),Lump 1+cm,AND 0/15,AC,rads finished 7/6/11.Mets bone, liver,mamm node 8/11,abrax/tigatuzamab failed.Started bicalutamide 11/16/11.

Posted By: HappyGoLucky
Date Posted: Nov 10 2011 at 7:40pm

Hes so beautiful Steve, I wouldn't want to put him down even to sleep.!

Posted By: janet c.
Date Posted: Nov 10 2011 at 8:15pm

Oh my goodness Steve he is adorable. Thanks for sharing with us.
Janet

-------------
dx 12/08 @47yrs.old TNBC stage 2a grade 3, 2.1cm. partial mastectomy sentinal node negative BRACA negative Cytocan/Taxatere x4 radiation 36 or 38rounds

Posted By: Charlene
Date Posted: Nov 10 2011 at 8:25pm

Thanks for posting his picture. Babies always bring smiles. He's beautiful.

Charlene

-------------
DX 3/10 @59 ILC/TNBC
Stage 1, Grade 2, Multifocal; Lumpectomy/re-excision
SNB 0/4 nodes, BRCA-; Taxotere/Cytoxan X4, 30 rads
3/14:NED

Posted By: TNBC_in_NS
Date Posted: Nov 10 2011 at 8:40pm

Oh my dear, what kisses I would be giving him! He is gorgeous! His little eyebrows are perfect and those big eyes just look into your heart and say "it will all be good"...... Steve you are so loved I just know this little guy has a wonderful friend and grandpa always.....

Thanks for sharing with me....love it and yes I am smiling...thanks h.

Oh ya, if I'm your sister, I am his Aunt! WAY to GO! Hello sweetie from Auntie h......

-------------
Diag@57TNBC04/092.5cm Lquad 05/09 TCx4Radsx30CT03/01/10 FU03/31/10ClearBRCA- 01/2011 RTNBC BMX 06/14/2011~2013 clear

Posted By: Genie
Date Posted: Nov 10 2011 at 11:21pm

Steve, you are so blessed! He is absolutely beautiful!

Hugs, Genie

-------------
DX 3/10/08 at age 67, IDC. Stage 1, Grade 3, 1.5 cm.
KI-67 99% at MX . Bilateral mastectomy 4/1/08 Node-, BRCA 1/2-,BARD1+, TX:Cytoxan/Taxotere x4,3 in family with TNBC

Posted By: kirby
Date Posted: Nov 10 2011 at 11:35pm

beautiful. and such expressive eyes.

-------------
kirby

dx Feb. 2001. Age 44
Lumpectomy

2cm. no nodes stage 1 grade 3

4 rnds AC, 35 rads

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Nov 10 2011 at 11:51pm

Hi Kirby and all,

It has been so wonderful to watch the development of this little guy...and the changes...as with most babies, in the beginning he seemed to have difficulties focusing and I felt did not really recognize me and seemed interested, at times, in shadows on the ceiling and the sky/clouds. “What do you see up there, Ethan?”...but no response, so far.. Smile

Now, he really looks at you and follows you when you walk away and seems to recognize folks...his eyes were sort of a dark grey and now brown; brown, so often, is victorious. I have hazel eyes and six kids and three grandchldren....all of my children and my grandchildren have brown eyes.

And his hair seems to be turning red. Both my daughter and SIL have touches of red in their hair but today I spoke to a dear friend who had a little boy born with dark hair, turned red and now it’s auburn. It’s all a wonderful mystery.

all the best,

Steve

p.s. the funniest thing is that, at times he has babbling conversations with you...and over the weekend he was at a wedding and some folks were talking kind of loud about Joe Paterno and the Penn State mess and as they talked louder my daughter said he babbled louder as if to say “hey, I want to be heard, too.” It’s all fascinatingly delightful.

Posted By: nmunoz
Date Posted: Nov 11 2011 at 12:38pm

Hermoso!!!

Thanks Steve!

Un abrazote,

Natalia

PS: Lorenzo was born with black hair and lots of it. The funny thing is that his eyebrows were so light colored that you almost couldn't see them. His hair started falling when he was a couple of months old and he had a funny patch of hair for most of his fist year but the hair that finally came out was a beautiful light brown very different from what he "came originally with". It is wonderful to see how they change as they grow up both inside and out. Besos!

-------------
Natalia, 38 years

Dx TNBC 10/22/08, BRCA1+

Double Mx 11/20/08 with Recon.

3/37 nodes

Rads 7 weeks done 8/09

ACx4 every 2 weeks and Tx12 weeks. Avastin e/3 weeksx10 (Clinical Trial) Done Dec/09

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Dec 17 2011 at 10:34pm

Dear all,

wishing you a lovely holiday season...both shots were taken during the last week...

bottom picture is of my youngest daughter and grandson this morning....it is said that "a picture is worth a 1000 words” and I think the love shown here is truly beyond words...My daughter is 31 and she has given us 31 years of joy and she is simply a spectacularly lovely mom.

This young man continues to be “the beauty in each day” for me...He helps me find the balance I need after a grueling year. Recently he has begun to smile and somehow...I have yet to figure it all .out...most of the time when I hold him he looks straight at me and then I say, with a big smile, “I love you” and he smiles at me and then he stops smiling when I stop talking. I then say “te amo, mi nieto” and he smiles again so I have convinced myself that he already knows Spanish but maybe he just likes my smile, or my voice or the combination of the two...but when I stop talking he stops smiling...I would say he does this 80% of the time.

Perhaps when he is older he will explain it all to me... Smile

...in the meantime, he continues to make my heart sing.

love to all,

Steve

Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Dec 18 2011 at 1:20pm

Steve,

So precious and beautiful! No wonder they bring you so much joy and love in your life. I know young Ethan will continue to smile when he sees his grandpa!

Donna

Posted By: Lillie
Date Posted: Dec 18 2011 at 4:08pm

Dear Steve 'Grandpa',
OK! When do we start 'sharing'.... I want to hold Ethan and see those beautiful eyes and that beautiful smile. I am so thankful you have your lovely family to turn to for Joy.

God Bless,
Lillie

-------------
Dx 6/06 age 65,IDC-TNBC
Stage IIb,Gr3,2cm,BRCA-
6/06 L/Mast/w/SNB,1of3 Nodes+
6/06 Axl. 9 nodes-
8/8 thru 11/15 Chemo (Clin-Trial) DD A/Cx4 -- DD taxol+gemzar x4
No Rads.
No RECON - 11/2018-12 yrs NED

Posted By: janet c.
Date Posted: Dec 18 2011 at 4:35pm

Oh Steve He is a keeper. So adorable. I don't know how you can pull yourself away from him.He is just so cute.

-------------
dx 12/08 @47yrs.old TNBC stage 2a grade 3, 2.1cm. partial mastectomy sentinal node negative BRACA negative Cytocan/Taxatere x4 radiation 36 or 38rounds

Posted By: sue
Date Posted: Dec 18 2011 at 5:07pm

Steve,

Thank you for sharing such an uplifting and joyous moment with your lovely and precious grandson.

Love and Peace,

Sue

-------------
Dx 7/10, age 53. TNBC left breast, stage I, grade 3, IDC 0.5 cm, DCI 2.5 cm, 0/8 lymph nodes neg. BRCA-. T/C x4 finished 2/09/11, rads x34 finished 4/21/11.

Posted By: mindy555
Date Posted: Dec 18 2011 at 5:36pm

For Steve and Ethan-

I cry big tears of joy when I hear this Elton John song, and think of you with your beloved Ethan. Wish I was savvy enough to find the music online and link it .. The song is itself is SO much more than just the lyrics. God Bless You both my friend. - Mindy

"Blessed"

Hey you, you're a child in my head
You haven't walked yet
Your first words have yet to be said
But I swear you'll be blessed

I know you're still just a dream
your eyes might be green
Or the bluest that I've ever seen
Anyway you'll be blessed

And you, you'll be blessed
You'll have the best
I promise you that
I'll pick a star from the sky
Pull your name from a hat
I promise you that, promise you that, promise you that
You'll be blessed

I need you before I'm too old
To have and to hold
To walk with you and watch you grow
And know that you're blessed

-------------
Dx July 2011 56 yo
Stage I IDC,TN,Grade 3
Grew to Stage IIa- No ev of node involve- BRCA1+ chondroid metaplasia
Daughter also BRCA1+
Mass grew on Taxol
FEC 6x better
BMX 3/19/12 pCR NED
BSO 6/2012

Posted By: dmwolf
Date Posted: Dec 19 2011 at 4:01pm

Hi, Steve, I love the pics! Such beautiful progeny!
love,
d

-------------
DX 2/08@43 stg II IDC; gr2,0 nodes. Neoadj chemo, first ACx2 (fail) then CarboTaxotereX6(better). Lump, Rads done 11/08; Clodronate. False alarm queen: PetCT lung & TM marker. NED. PBM w/recon 9/10.

Posted By: mindy555
Date Posted: Dec 21 2011 at 11:51pm

Crank up your sound Steve-

This is for you and your beautiful Ethan... I hope it works. If not type in youtube Elton John "Blessed" There are other versions - I just picked the first one I found. I simply can't hear this song without thinking of you with your precious grandson.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIYsjIm3zqU - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIYsjIm3zqU

-------------
Dx July 2011 56 yo
Stage I IDC,TN,Grade 3
Grew to Stage IIa- No ev of node involve- BRCA1+ chondroid metaplasia
Daughter also BRCA1+
Mass grew on Taxol
FEC 6x better
BMX 3/19/12 pCR NED
BSO 6/2012

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Dec 22 2011 at 12:21am

Thanks Mindy,

I just played it and it is beautiful.....did you ever notice that wonderful songs, often, have the same lyrics sung over and over or the same music over and over and it just works when it it’s good.

Ravel’s Bolero is like that...it is somehow entrancing....that is the way I felt about this....

thanks you so much...

hugs,

Steve

Posted By: mindy555
Date Posted: Dec 22 2011 at 1:11am

Steve-

I LOVE Ravel’s Bolero. Yes. It works. While not every lyric fits, the song is pure. It's so you and Ethan.

It was ironic. I was driving to the grocery store and this song happened to be the first up from Elton John's "Love Songs" CD. I hadn't heard it in quite some time. All I could think of was you and Ethan. The 'good tears' started to flow. Probably 15 minutes later you called me while I was at the store.

I'm so glad you like it.

Hugs,

Mindy

-------------
Dx July 2011 56 yo
Stage I IDC,TN,Grade 3
Grew to Stage IIa- No ev of node involve- BRCA1+ chondroid metaplasia
Daughter also BRCA1+
Mass grew on Taxol
FEC 6x better
BMX 3/19/12 pCR NED
BSO 6/2012

Posted By: Debris
Date Posted: Jan 28 2012 at 8:33pm

Steve, just wanted to say "Hi", and to wish you and yours well for the new year. Thanks for all you do for all of us!

I'm not surprised that Ethan smiles when he hears your voice, or sees your smile.

Looking forward to more pics...

Deborah (and DH).

-------------
4/12 Xeloda/Tykerb
2 Carboplatin
12/11 Dx IA
9 Gemzar/Taxotere Dx IBC:FEC
5 Ixempra/Sprycel
2 25 Rad
10/10 BRCA1-/2suv
9 NED
6 Stg4 Grd3 many nodes no Sx/Rad. Taxol/Avastin
06/08 Dx DCIS 0/SN Rads/AIs

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Jan 28 2012 at 9:10pm

Dear Deborah,

Hi, back....and as you know my heart remains with you and your DH.

What can I say about this little guy? He helps keep me centered, balanced and healthy. I feel so blessed to have this bundle of joy in my life...and to have this marvelous TNBC family to share him with!!!!

with my love,

Steve

Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Jan 28 2012 at 9:12pm

Steve,< ="text/" ="" ="/B1D671CF-E532-4481-99AA-19F420D90332etdefender/huidhui.js?0=0&0=0&0=0">

He's so beautiful and getting so big!

Donna

Posted By: TNBC_in_NS
Date Posted: Jan 28 2012 at 9:35pm

Steve:

Ethan is a darling, just like his grandfather!

I can tell he will be very smart and successful in all that he does, just like his grandfather!

Here is a song that came out when my first Grandson was born 16 years ago. He was adopted so to me he was extra special....hope you enjoy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DLeLNFYFcI&feature=results_video&playnext=1&list=PLB80B0BFBF121130E - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DLeLNFYFcI&feature=results_video&playnext=1&list=PLB80B0BFBF121130E

Thanks for sharing Ethan with me... with love from your other sister in the East...

-------------
Diag@57TNBC04/092.5cm Lquad 05/09 TCx4Radsx30CT03/01/10 FU03/31/10ClearBRCA- 01/2011 RTNBC BMX 06/14/2011~2013 clear

Posted By: janet c.
Date Posted: Jan 28 2012 at 10:02pm

Steve,
Your grandson is so cute!!!! God bless him and you and your family and thanks for sharing.

-------------
dx 12/08 @47yrs.old TNBC stage 2a grade 3, 2.1cm. partial mastectomy sentinal node negative BRACA negative Cytocan/Taxatere x4 radiation 36 or 38rounds

Posted By: Genie
Date Posted: Jan 29 2012 at 12:09am

Steve, Ethan is absolutely adorable!

-------------
DX 3/10/08 at age 67, IDC. Stage 1, Grade 3, 1.5 cm.
KI-67 99% at MX . Bilateral mastectomy 4/1/08 Node-, BRCA 1/2-,BARD1+, TX:Cytoxan/Taxotere x4,3 in family with TNBC

Posted By: denise07
Date Posted: Jan 29 2012 at 12:33am

Steve,

Thankyou so much for sharing this your grandson is absolutley adorable and he is such a great gift.I was diagnosed after my nephew was born and he helped me fight the fight ,considering my daughter gave me the strengh I never thought I would have endured.

Thank you for everything you have done for us!

Hugs.

Denise

-------------
DX Idc 10/07,st2,gr3,2/6 lymphnodes

Posted By: christina1961
Date Posted: Jan 29 2012 at 12:52am

Ethan is just precious! What a sweet smile! Thanks for sharing photos!

-------------
2.5 cm TNBC, BRCA-, diag. 2/11, neoadj chemotherapy, uni MX, y2cm,2/16 nodes, RCBII, tumor retested 5-10%ER+,PR-,Her2-, rads, clin trial eribulin 10/11-2/12, tamox.

Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Jan 29 2012 at 7:41am

p.s. did you notice his little shirt makes it look like he is wearing a watch? so cute!!!

I think one of the biggest changes since I was a parent for the last time 26 years ago are digital cameras and the internet/Skype. It is so easy for my daughter to send us pictures and also she is even able to download images to this viewer that she and her husband got for my wife for the holidays.

hugs,

Steve