This should get you in the mood to shop for shoes! Join us for FFANY Shoes on Sale, October 10th at 6PM!
This is Amy and we are going over what wonderful shoes are donated for this event!
Sensory overload.....
Awwww so cute.....
Love these....
And these.....
And, yes, these too......
Yes please....
Hope you can join us!!
Our friend, Sharon Hanby-Robie, hasn't been on Q lately. Why? Because a few months ago she was diagnosed with breast cancer! I am so happy to say she whooped its booty and is coming back to the Q this month. Learn about this brave and amazingly strong woman's journey in the first edition of my Blog Series: "Breast Cancer Survivors: The Power of Sharing".
Sharon’s Story
Q: What type of breast cancer, and at what stage were you diagnosed?
A: Diagnosed in March. Although only Stage 1, my mammo-Print which dissected the genomes of my cancer cells showed that I had a very vicious form of breast cancer. AM I cancer free? Good question. The tumor was removed. The chemo was to kill cancer cells floating within my body. And on-going drug therapy will be used to continue working to destroy any new or leftover cells. For me, yes, I am believing that I am healed.
Q: Do you have a history of cancer in your family?
A: I survived uterine and cervical cancer at age 28. I am now 62. My father died of Multiple myeloma- bone cancer. There is no history of breast cancer in my family.
Q: How old were you when you were diagnosed?
A: 62
Q: How was your cancer detected?
A: Mammogram. One year I was fine and the next I was not. I have very dense breasts and never had children, both of those increased my chances for breast cancer.
Q: What treatment program did you have?
A: I had a state of the art Mastectomy in which I was able to keep my skin and my nipple. I then had Chemotherapy: Cytoxan and Taxotere - I managed three out of 4 treatments.
Q: Did you seek a second opinion?
A: Of course. The first surgeon suggested just a lumpectomy and radiation. If I had followed that route, I would not have had the advantage of the new advanced diagnotic test of Mammo-Print/Genetic testing and would not have known how vicious my particular cancer was and, therefore, would not have had chemotherapy. Knowing the specific genomes determined that without chemo and ongoing drug therapy, I had a 30% chance of recurrence within five years. With chemo and drug therapy, my percentage drops to 8%.
Q: Are you currently on medication?
A: I will be taking tamoxifen for many years. My doctor has also prescribed DIM (3,3'-diindolylmethane) Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a metabolite of Indole-3-carbinol (I3C), a compound found in cruciferous vegetables including broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower. It is the most studied of all I3C metabolites and is thought to be superior to IC3 as a chemoprotective compound for breast cancer and prostate cancer (3). DIM demonstrated anti-proliferative effects in animal and cancer cell models through various mechanisms.
In contrast to I3C which has been used in over a dozen clinical trials, few studies have been published using DIM. In one study, daily supplementation with DIM led to changes in estrogen metabolism in post- menopausal women with a history of early stage breast cancer (4); DIM supplementation, did not, however, have any effects in women with cervical cell abnormalities (13). In addition, my doctor is putting me on a very concentrated form of Ginseng and Pomegranate. I am also taking concentrated forms of carrots, barley and beets.
Q: What surgeries do you have left?
A: I had my final reconstruction surgery Sept. 30 to replace the expander in my breast with solid silicone gel implants. These CANNOT leak because the gel is in a solid form. Even if you cut it with a knife, it cannot leak. My doctor believes they will last the rest of my life.
Q: What was it like losing your hair?
A: I have three dear friends who had lost theirs during chemotherapy, and they were such an inspiration to me that losing my hair was the worst thing. I cried the day it started to fall out and then made the decision to shave my head. The real issue is how chemo affects all your skin including your scalp. Dry and extremely sensitive makes it hard to even where a scarf yet alone a wig for long periods of time. The heat of summer also made it difficult because it was like wearing a hat in Summer -- HOT and sweaty.
Q: What did you do about it? (Wig, scarf, au natural?)
A: Most of the time, I have gone au natural -- better known as bald. I am ready for it to start growing but admit that getting dressed in the morning requires much less time, and I have saved a ton on color and cuts!
Q: What helped you get through your journey?
A: My faith, My husband, My family, My friends - and an army of prayer warriors. I have been so blessed and so well cared for by so many. I can never thank them enough.
As a previous cancer survivor, I will say that this was emotionally easier than cervical and uterine cancer because those made it impossible to have children. Breast cancer is scary in that it can show up later in any organ at any time. But emotionally losing a breast is not the worst thing in the world. Besides, I am getting a boob job from this: something that I would never have done otherwise!
Q: What did you need most from your family, friends and co-workers?
A: At the worst of times, I just needed someone to be here and sit with me. Some days I was so tired and just getting up to get a glass of water was too much. Having someone go with me to chemo was wonderful and helped pass the long hours. My dear friend Patty came each morning the first weeks to change my dressings. My husband just couldn't handle this one. Of course eating is always an issue with chemo. I could not stand the smell of food cooking nor could I handle warm food. I only wanted cold things like chicken or tuna salad. My dear friends provided whatever my food choice of the moment happened to be.
Q: How are you doing today?
A: I am doing very well.
Q: How has having breast cancer changed you?
A: I know from experience, that each challenge we face prepares you for something important in life. I have been able in the past to help others going through cancer and know that I will again.
I have learned so much from this experience and have been so blessed with the most amazing doctors, that I want to encourage and educate others about breast cancer, chemotherapy and all the options that are available. I have learned how enduring is sometimes all that we can expect at the moment. But enduring also is such an important part of growth. The Israelite's endured the desert in order to prepare them for the Promised Land. So, too, for me. I know there is a Promised Land blessing coming from this.
Q: What is your best advice and encouragement for someone newly diagnosed?
A: Breathe. You do not have to RUSH. Take your time and get second or even third opinion until you feel you know all you need to know and have found the doctor/doctors and protocol that you trust. Once you make your decision, you will have peace of mind. Secondly, allow yourself to be cared for and do not feel guilty about anything. You will get through this. I am here and am willing to "take your hand and walk you through this journey".
Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?
A: This is a season and like all seasons, this too will pass. I am putting together a resource list for chemotherapy patients. It is something I wish I had had. I was fortunate that a friend who walked this journey two years ago provided me with some of this information, but much of it I had to research and locate myself. For example, I was able to keep my eyebrows and lashes by using a product developed specifically for chemo patients. Another example is: I now have a cataract as a result of chemo. No one warned me this could happen. There are so many examples like this that I want to share and help others as they embark on their chemo.
Q: When are you back on air?
A: I report the first week of October and have a TSV on Oct. 25. YAY!!!
Q: What's the link to your blog?
A: Go to my website and simply click on the BLOG link at the top of the page: www.sharonhanbyrobie.com
I wanted to share my weekend in upstate NY at the Adirondack Balloon Festival in case you missed it!
Here we are at the airport. We began our live hits from the rooftop!
Q Fans came over to say "Hi"!!
My stylist & friend came to make me look beautiful! Thanks, Dina!
The balloons are transported to the field in a small trailer. The crew lays it in prep for the basket.
They fill the balloon with cold air first & then blast the hot air to get it off the ground.
The basket is attached & our pilot is giving us instructions before the flight.
I'm in & ready for flight!!
This was my view during the flight...gorgeous, serene, peaceful!
We landed safely! Next stop...the Flloyd Bennett Memorial Airport!
After we were finished shooting for the day, Jim, Iz & I headed over to check out the kiddo shapes! Iz loved it, but it was a little bit loud. I think we're seeing Spider-pig's feet.
The next morning we had free. So, we took a trip to Lake George.
Saturday was a bummer. Oodles of wind so the balloons couldn't take off. This is me in the hotel doing an interview with a local paper. Fun! Btw-notice the clogs...they're coming up during FFANY Shoes on Sale in Oct!!
A great event & time was had by all at the Adirondack Balloon Festival! (Again...notice the boots...coming up on Oct during FFANY Shoes on Sale!). A big thanks to Carrie & the on-site Q crew & Mark Donahue from the ABF & all his peeps!!!
My name is Nancy & this is my friend, Chef Nick. My favorite sandwich: Peanut Butter & Pickles.
Problem: I don’t like a bunch of things I can’t pronounce in my peanut butter!
Chef Nick and Vitamix to the rescue!
Nick put 3 cups of roasted peanuts in the Vitamix. That’s it, nothin’ else! And we were off….
…1 minute down, one to go!
Ta Da! It’s time for the taste test. Yum!!!
Let’s put my sandwich together: Spread the freshly whipped-up-in-the-Vitamix-roasted-peanut-only-peanut butter on wheat bread…
Top with Dill Pickles.
And Enjoy!!! Thanks Chef Nick & Vitamix for my wholesome peanut butter & pickle sandwich!
Bonus pic: My Friends, Wendy & Eva, even joined in on the action. They were a little skeptical about the pickle/peanut butter combo… at first.
Recipe: 1-1/2 cups dry roasted & 1-1/2 cups of honey roasted peanuts
Check out tomorrow's TSV: K38445 - the Vitamix Creations 48oz Variable Speed Blender
I met Christy at Disney. We were chosen to be a part of the “Hoop Dee Doo Review” cast and trained together in 1998. I found her to be talented, funny, kind, warm, silly, generous and spunky! Needless to say, we became instant friends. Our friends definitely come into our lives for a reason, even if for a season. (Thankfully, it’s been many seasons for us).
I had moved on from Disney to NYC when I got the call from Christy. She had been diagnosed with DCIS. Since my Dad, brother, sister and brother-in-law are doctors who either diagnose or treat cancer; I immediately got them involved for advice and help with the process. I remember going to Christy’s doctor appointment with her…I was the ears, her Mom was the love, and her friend, Laura, was the secretary who took copious notes. Little did we know Laura would be diagnosed with Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer one month later or that I would be diagnosed with Stage 1 invasive breast cancer two years later.
The day I was diagnosed, I called to tell Christy she had “given” me breast cancer! Of course, you can’t “give” anyone breast cancer; I was joking. But we laughed and cried and commiserated about having this dumb disease…and then I called Laura, who was fighting for her life. Unfortunately, Laura lost her battle a few years ago, but remained positive, hopeful, joyful and strong throughout. She was an absolute inspiration to so many…including Christy and me. Thankfully, Christy is thriving!!! She is not only an actress, singer & dancer, but a stunt performer. She has been “Sarah O’Connor” in the Terminator 2 show at Universal Studios Orlando for years…and it’s where she met her husband, Brad.
Christy's Story
N: How long have you been cancer-free?
C: I have been cancer free for 6 years :)
N: What type of breast cancer & what stage were you diagnosed?
C: My cancer was Ductal Carcinoma In Situ. Stage 0- it never left the duct.
N: Family history of breast cancer?
C: My Grandmother had breast cancer in her 50's.
N: How old were you when you were diagnosed?
C: I was 33 when I was diagnosed. :(
N: How was your cancer detected? (Mammo, breast exam)
C: I actually saw a lump, and then it was detected by mammo- but they said it was negative. An Oncologist said that there is sometimes a false negative, and I should have the lump removed just to be sure.
N: What was your treatment program?
C: Thankfully, all I had to do was a mastectomy. I opted for a bilateral just in case the other one decided to go bad.
N: Did you seek a second opinion?
C: I sought several opinions. Lol!
N: Did you or do you take medication?
C: No meds.
N: Are you finished with reconstruction surgery?
C: Yes, I am finished with surgeries, and now just need to tattoo on some areolas!
N: What got you through the journey?
C: Friends and anti-anxiety meds got me through!
N: What did you need most from friends / family /co-workers?
C: I just needed friends to watch movies with me, agree that it sucked, go to appointments with me, and just be there when I cried (over a Halloween cake with you there, Nancy). J
N: How are you doing today?
C: I'm fine. :) Boobs are crazy looking... but, eh. ;)
N: How has having breast cancer changed you?
C: I'd love to say it's made me a better person and that I look at life so differently; but, I don't really. I wish I could still do pull-ups, and I wish pushups didn't hurt so much. I am not as confident with the way I look, and I worry about how my breasts look in some clothing. And it's hard to change in dressing rooms with other women being present without feeling a little embarrassed. Sigh... I do like being a source of knowledge for young women who are diagnosed. I also like introducing them to other young survivors, so they know they will be okay or that they have support even if they aren't. I love the women I have met, who are fellow survivors. They are some of my most cherished friends. :)
N: Advice/encouragement for someone newly diagnosed?
C: I would tell them that everything is going to be ok, no matter what.
N: Anything else you would like to add?
C: I want to add that I love you (Nancy), and I am sorry I was contagious. ;)
Personal Aside: Christy was very concerned about her body and that a man might not accept it. I would always tell her the right man was just waiting to meet her...and guess what? She did!
N: When/how did you meet Brad?
C: We met at work just over two years ago. He had been on 3rd shift for 13 years. Switched to 2nd and voila. :)
N: When were you married?
C: We got married on May 11th.
N: What’s it like having your love accept you and your boobs just the way they are?
C: It is wonderful having him love me just the way I am. He lost his mommy to breast cancer when he was 12, so he is just happy I made it. And he tells me that they are still my skin, and he loves all of me- from the top on my head to the bottoms of my feet. :)
Eva is a part of my team. I recently found out that she, too, has been personally touched by breast cancer. Her foreword & story is poignant for those of you who were diagnosed with “pre-cancerous” cells/cysts. Here is the next installment in my blog series, “Breast Cancer Survivors: The Power of Sharing” - Eva’s Story
Eva's lil' pumpkins - Matthew & Daniel
Eva: I started my story so many times and erased what I wrote because I didn’t feel worthy (if you could call it that). I haven’t gone through as much as other women. I didn’t lose my hair, and I didn’t have chemo. But then I thought, we are all different and our experiences are going to be different. Same journey, just different paths. The best part is, we are all here to support each other. If my story helps, I am happy for that.
Q: What type of breast cancer and at what stage were you diagnosed?
A: Lobular Carcinoma In-Situ, Multifocal. This was contained in a cyst in my breast. LCIS is an overgrowth of cells that stay inside the lobule. It is not a true cancer; rather, it is a warning sign of an increased risk for developing an invasive cancer in the future in either breast.
Q: Do you have a history of cancer in your family?
A: I had a maternal grandmother that passed from cervical cancer.
Q: How old were you when you were diagnosed?
A: 51
Q: How was your cancer detected?
A: Ultrasound. I have fiber cystic breasts and have always had to have an additional ultrasound after my mammograms.
Q: What treatment program did you have?
A: I had the cyst removed and take Tamoxifen every day.
Q: Did you seek a second opinion?
A: I did not because I agreed the cyst should be removed. I have, however, followed up with my doctor on a regular basis, making sure to get mammograms and other tests. My Doctor told me last year that because of what was found in my breast, it was important to have a colonoscopy. I put that test off because, well, I just really wasn’t looking forward to it. Anyway, her words stuck with me, and I scheduled the test. They found a tubular adenoma sessile polyp which was pre-cancerous, and I had to have over a foot of my colon surgically removed. I was grateful she pushed the point, and I’m grateful I went in for the test.
Q: What is helping you through this journey?
A: The love and support of my family, of course. I am blessed with two beautiful grandsons that light up my life, and I want to enjoy them for a long time. Also, I have to say, that I am a pretty positive person. I have a wonderful man in my life. When I complain about my scars, he says “what scars?” Of course I know what he is doing, and appreciate it.
Q: What did you need most from your family, friends and co-workers?
A: It was great to have their support, but I was really happy when friends and co-workers were scheduling their tests after hearing my story. I hope that is what happens today.
Q: How are you doing today?
A: Doing well, but not letting my guard down.
Q: How has having breast cancer changed you?
A: It has made me believe in the expression – don’t sweat the small stuff!
Q: What is your best advice and encouragement for someone newly diagnosed?
A: Your friends and family are in your life for a reason, and they want to be there for you. Lean on them! You know you would do it for them.
We often think about breast cancer as a disease that affects women over 40. How could a woman get breast cancer earlier? Surely not - especially since we’re taught to have our baseline mammogram at age 40. In the next installment of "Breast Cancer Survivors: The Power of Sharing", QVC’s own dear, sweet, Amy, was diagnosed (much like me) within days of her coming to Q. Unlike me, she was and is 26. Amy is in the midst of her battle.
Amy’s Story
Q: How long ago did you learn you had breast cancer?
A: March 2013
Q: What type of breast cancer, and at what stage were you diagnosed?
A: The type of cancer I have is Her2 Neu positive/ Stage 1
Q: Do you have a history of cancer in your family?
A: No history of breast cancer in my family
Q: You are so newly diagnosed. May I ask your age?
A:Yes, I am 26 years old. I found out I had cancer a couple days before my 26th birthday.
Q: How was your cancer detected? (Mammo, breast exam)
A: I felt the lumps myself. I had one lump when I was 18 and again when I was 21, but they were benign. I found three lumps this time.
Q: What is your treatment program?
A: My treatment program is for a year and two months. Even though my cancer was diagnosed stage 1, the type of cancer I have is known to aggressively spread to other areas of my body within three years if I did not get chemotherapy. If I did not receive chemotherapy, I would have had a 30 % chance of getting cancer again in the next three years, but with chemotherapy, I only have a 10% chance. The types of chemotherapy treatments for my type of cancer are Adriamycin and Cytoxan for the first two months then Taxol and Herceptin for the next three months and Herceptin alone for the last nine months.
Q: Did you seek a second opinion?
A: I did seek a second opinion.
Q: Are you currently on medication?
A: Currently, I am receiving the Chemotherapy Taxel and Herceptin. My last Taxel treatment is October 17th. I can’t wait!!! I then continue Herceptin every three weeks until August while receiving my surgeries.
Q: What surgeries do you have left?
A: I have three surgeries left. Because my tumor was located close to my nipple, I have to get the first surgery to test the tissue under my nipple to make sure the cancer has not been exposed to the nipple. If it has not, I will be receiving a Nipple Sparing Double Mastectomy followed with the third surgery of reconstruction.
Q: What was it like losing your hair and has it grown back?
A: It was unsettling to lose my hair. I had extremely long hair, so I first got it all cut off to a pixie cut. Then, when it started to fall out, I had my sister buzz it off. It is something that you never really get used to. I lost my eye lashes and eyebrows as well. I do not feel like I look like myself anymore, so I am looking forward to when it grows back.
Q: What did you do after losing your hair? Wear a wig, scarf or au natural?
A: I wear hats and bandanas. During the summer, it was too hot to wear a wig, so I just didn’t bother.
Q: What is helping you get through your journey?
A: My family and friends are getting me through this journey. My two aunt's, Sue and Gail, as well as my Uncle Joe are my angels in this journey. They have gone far and beyond for me, and I am so grateful for all they do for me.
Q: What did you need most from your family, friends and co-workers?
A: The continued love, support, help and understanding. Everyone in my life has been really great. I have an amazing family, friends and job/coworkers.
Q: How are you doing today?
A: Today I am trying to stay positive and collected.
Q: How has having breast cancer changed you?
A: Breast cancer has definitely opened my eyes. It is an education. Not only have I learned about breast cancer, but have met other patients with other types of cancers and learned about their journey. Being on my journey and learning about what other people are going through, it makes life look and feel different. It makes me look at life more positively and makes me grateful for everything and everyone I have in my life.
Q: What is your best advice and encouragement for someone newly diagnosed?
A: The advice I have is to keep your head up and try to stay positive. It is a lot easier said than done, but being someone who is going through this, I truly know what you’re going through.
Laura Ferguson bravely shared her story as she was battling her second round of breast cancer. We wanted to check in and see how she was doing. Here is an update from our dear friend.
Pictured here with her friend, Erin, on the right.
Laura’s Story
Q: How long are you cancer-free?
A: I don’t actually keep track anymore. I was so close to my 5 year mark last time around that I feel a little superstitious keeping track. May 8th was technically my one year cancer free.
Q: What type of breast cancer and at what stage were you diagnosed?
A: My first time was stage 1, but it was still weird as I had two tumors. The one tumor was invasive ductal carcinoma and the other was invasive lobular carcinoma. Both tumors were estrogen +. I also had two lymph nodes that showed cancer cells on them, but not enough to be considered a complete positive. The second time they couldn’t officially stage me. My actual cancer was Stage 4 since there was no breast tissue present, but they don’t consider me terminal since it came back in the same place. Very complicated! The second cancer was invasive ductal carcinoma and estrogen +. Kind of weird to have ductal cancer when you don’t have any ducts left!!
Q: Do you have a history of cancer in your family?
A: My aunt and great grandmother on my father’s side both had Breast Cancer. My father passed away from Glioblastoma Multiforme (brain cancer).
Q: How old were you when you were diagnosed?
A: I was 28 and 33.
Q: How was your cancer detected?
A: I found the lumps both times.
Q: What treatment program did you have?
A: First time I had two lumpectomies, a full node dissection, chemo and a double mastectomy with reconstruction. Second time I had a lumpectomy on my fake boob, chemo, radiation of my chest and neck, and had my ovaries removed.
Q: Did you seek a second opinion?
A: The first time I sought a second opinion which landed me at The University of Pennsylvania. The second time I knew that my case was presented to the tumor board, where numerous oncologists that specialize in Breast Cancer reviewed my case, and shared their thoughts with my oncologist.
Q: Are you currently on medication?
A: Yes. I actually am in the process of switching from Arimidex to Femara. I was having severe side effects from the Arimidex. During my first battle I was on Tamoxifen, but it failed.
Q: What surgeries do you have left?
A: I’m all done!
Q: What was it like losing your hair and has it grown back?
A: Losing my hair the first time was really sad for me. I would stand in front of the mirror just brushing my hair wondering what I would look like with all of it gone. The second time I knew what to expect and wasn’t as scared. It is growing back, slowly but surely.
Q: What did you do after losing your hair? Wear a wig, scarf or au natural?
A: The first time I went and bought a wig. I was wearing it outside and at work. It was so uncomfortable though. I would take my lunch to work and go out and sit in my car just to take the wig off. I finally asked myself, “Who am I doing this for?”. After that I stopped wearing the wig. I wore all sorts of scarves and hats from then on.
Q: What helped you get through your journey?
A: Family and friends. The second diagnosis was a huge blow for me. I was not only scared for my life, but it also closed any possibility of having any biological children of my own. Double whammy.
Q: What did you need most from your family, friends and co-workers?
A: Sometimes a laugh and other times a listening ear. Knowing that my friends and family have my back, no matter what, is priceless.
Q: How are you doing today?
A: I’m doing good. One day at a time. Step by step. I have my days where I cry and ask why me, but then I’m still here….living. I can’t believe a year ago I was just finishing my chemo treatments.
Q: What did you do differently the second time around?
A: The second time around I took a leave from work. Not having to be anywhere each day was great. When I felt good I was able to do things that I enjoyed like go to the beach or just hang out with Family and Friends. On the days I didn’t feel well I was able to stay in bed all day. It was a huge difference from working during my chemo treatments the first time.
Q: What is your best advice and encouragement for someone newly diagnosed?
A: Take a deep breath. It’s ok to cry, shout and scream. “You don’t know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.”
Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?
A: My new life motto is: Don’t lose Hope and hold tight to your Dreams. Who knows what the future holds for any of us? Hope is what gets us through and dreams are the inspiration for the journey.
Strange to think my tumor was removed during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As tough as it to look back on this month 4 years ago, what a joyous month it has become! I am privileged to hear the stories of the warriors who have fought (and are fighting) against this dreadful disease. Even though October is coming to an end, our fight continues! Please keep posting your stories and words of encouragement for others on my FB Page (Nancy Hornback QVC). It could save a life!
As you read Stacey’s journey, please notice the theme that runs through each of the Survivor Stories: EARLY DETECTION!!!! Please check your breasts, have your yearly GYN appointments and get your Mammograms! We need you in this world!
A little bit about how I “met” Stacy: I actually haven’t met her in person…yet. Stacy’s husband, who works for QVC & knew my story, shared with me that his wife had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Although he was concerned and worried, he was ALL in and was prepared to do whatever it took to help her through this journey. Stacy’s story is more than just breast cancer, it’s a Love Story.
This is me during chemo. I had this wig fitted before losing my hair, so it is close to what I looked like prior to chemo.
N: How long have you been cancer-free?
S: I have been cancer free since May 31, 2013 after a double mastectomy.
N: What type of breast cancer and what stage?
S: Stage 2B breast cancer.
N: Do you have a family history of breast cancer?
S: No one in my family has ever had breast cancer. I’m currently waiting for genetic testing.
N: How old were you when you were diagnosed?
S: I was 41 when I was diagnosed.
N: How was your cancer detected?
S: I was reaching to place a Christmas decoration up and felt a sharp pain in my right breast. When I put my hand over it, I felt the mass for the first time over my sweatshirt. I had just had my annual OBGYN appointment 5 days prior, and it wasn’t detected. I went in for a mammogram. They saw something and immediately sent me in for a biopsy. It was then they told me I had breast cancer.
N: What is your program?
S: I started an 18 week chemotherapy treatment 3 weeks after diagnosis. I then opted for a double mastectomy, even though the cancer was only in one breast. On May 31st I had both breasts removed & began the process of reconstructive surgery. I have done 5 weeks of fills and started Radiation on August 29th, not to get rid of any cancer, but rather to make sure the cells never grow again. I will have my final reconstructive surgery in November of 2013.
N: Did you seek a second opinion?
S: No. When I found out, I asked to have both breasts removed immediately. That’s when I found out that I had 2 large masses in my right breast. I was told the tumors were about 6.5 inches and it was 1 whole mass. The chemo was designed to shrink the tumor. They were concerned due to the tumor being very close to the chest wall. Personally, when I found out, all I wanted was for it to be gone. Delaying any treatments to get a second opinion just wasn't something we wanted to take a chance with. We knew I had it; we knew we wanted to fight; and my husband and I felt very confident with the doctors’ decisions. I just wanted to get rid of the cancer. There were several doctors that reviewed my case. It was then that they all decided what my plan would be. Seeing my pathology results and being told I’m cancer free, made it all worthwhile.
N: Are you on meds?
S: Yes, I am on 2 meds daily and still receive a drug through an IV once every 3 weeks until January 2014.
N: What surgeries do you have left?
S: The removal of the expanders under my chest muscles, this is when I’ll get the permanent implants. They will last 10 years, and then I will have to have them removed and new ones put back in.
N: What was it like losing your hair?
S: At the time it was devastating. I was so concerned. When I was told I would lose it, I went out and bought a wig that looked just like my hair. I actually cut my own hair every 3 days, shorter and shorter, until I realized I was about to lose it all. I cried by myself and watched myself cry in the mirror. I went into the bathroom and just started to buzz it all off, then I shaved my head. My husband and I took pictures of him holding an egg next to my head. It was hard, I won’t lie; but I got over it. When I went to the chemo center and the doctor told me, after my second session of chemo, my tumor shrunk 3 inches, suddenly my hair was the last thing I was thinking about. Women see their hair as being a part of what defines them. But when you really look at the whole picture, your hair isn't anything special.
N: Did you wear a wig the whole time?
S: Actually, I bought a couple of wigs. I had a short haired wig that I would wear under a baseball cap if I went out in public. They just became more of a nuisance, so I started to wear my little knitted hats when I went out.
N: What's getting you thru this journey?
S: I have a great family and love them all. It has brought us all closer going through this. BUT...I fought for 3 reasons: 1- I wanted 40 more years with my husband. I was not going to leave him! 2- My son is 24 and single. I haven't met my daughter-in-law. and 3- He hasn't had children and I want to hold my grandchildren! These are 3 simple reasons, yet for me are the most powerful reasons to fight!
N: What did you need most from friends / family?
S: Support. I had them all making meals, calling and asking how I was that day. They sent cards and flowers, did some shopping for us and stopped by for tea. My husband was by my side every moment. What was great were the people that stopped to ask him how HE was. People don't realize how much of a toll it takes, not just on the patient, but the spouse as well.
N: How are you doing?
S: Today I have 20 of my 30 radiation treatments under my belt. I have had expanders in since May 31st, which are painful. My scar tissue has hardened and the expanders are on my ribs and muscles. I’m uncomfortable all the time, but I am on my way to another 40 years with my husband, I will be given the opportunity to meet my daughter-in-law, and will now be able to hold my first grandchild. So, I would say I’m great!
N: How has having breast cancer changed you?
S: Wow, I don't even know where to begin. I have realized what is really important in life. The big house, expensive car, perfect hair, body, nails and clothes are all so superficial. My family and loved ones are what’s important to me. Health and happiness and our children’s happiness and health are what’s important. I am a stronger person and am more focused on what I want in life. I used to clean 2 times a day, make dinners, go shopping…now, none of that really matters. I still do some of these things, but would rather take a long ride with my husband and spend some quality time with him. We have always wanted to move and travel, but have put it off. Now we are working towards our dreams. Life is short and you never know. Don't put off the things you want, go after them, dream them and live them.
N: Do you have any advice or encouragement for someone newly diagnosed?
S: Life is always worth fighting for. There are always reasons to fight, it is beyond overwhelming, but I was told by my Nurse Navigator, “You give us one full year of your life and we will give you 40 in return”. With the technology and medicine that is out there for us today, why wouldn't you want to fight? Stay positive. This may sound inappropriate, but have fun with it all. For example, some people keep a diary. I took pictures of myself every day. I would look back at the pictures at the end of the week and realized I was smiling and laughing in 95% of them. I made funny faces, & matched my outfits to my little hats. Sure there are days you are down, but I always told myself, “Ok, today is bad, but tomorrow will be better and the next day better than tomorrow.” My advice, talk to your doctors, stay positive, make a diary, stay focused and have something small planned for the days you know you will be feeling better. To have something small to look forward to gives you hope.
N: Is there anything else you want to add?
S: Dealing with cancer isn't a death sentence. It IS something you can beat as long as you stay on top of your health. If you are diagnosed, think about all the things you will miss if you’re not around. You will start to see you want to fight it. Everyone has something worth living for, stay focused, embrace life!
Hard times, bad breaks, illness, and heartache suck! (Sorry to be so crude, but there isn’t a more appropriate word, in my opinion.) I’m not sure I’ll ever quite understand the bad things that happen to us. As I get older, I realize the times that I have, literally & figuratively survived, have made me who I am. More importantly, the journey through the tough times has given me character, compassion, strength, perseverance, hope and a grateful heart!
Recently, I had the opportunity to serve as a Breakout Session Host at the PA Women’s Conference.
My role was to introduce the Speakers, Tory Johnson & Sallie Krawcheck, women who have overcome personal struggles to become the powerful force they are today.
In addition, I was asked to share the “Cliff Notes” version of my personal story. I shared my struggle with the vocal cord polyps that ended my opera career, the inability to have children and my battle with breast cancer. But, I also shared the good news…I reinvented myself within the entertainment industry that I love; God gave me a beautiful daughter through adoption; and I am healthy and cancer-free!
In the 5 short minutes, I did not get to share the “how” of how I went from point A to point B, just that I got there. Following the session, surprisingly, a few women came to share and ask questions about each of my struggles and I was able to share the “how”. I was honored and blessed to be a drop in the growth of these women who are struggling (or had struggled) with the very same things.
The quote on my Nancy Hornback QVC Facebook page is, “I am a breast cancer survivor. I’m not unique. We’re all survivors of something!” What’s your something? How did you survive? How has it changed you? What did you learn? Are you sharing what you learned? Let me tell you, I love men a whole lot and am so grateful for them, but, Girls, we need each other!! We need to mentor and be mentored by other women throughout our lives in marriage, business, motherhood, grandmotherhood, single motherhood, death of a loved one, illness, friendship, dating and beyond!
I hope you will see the bad things in your life as blessings for growth. If you can work past the darkness (and you will), you will come into a whole new day. Isn’t that day worth fighting for? Know you are not the only one who has ever gone through what you’re going through, and you won’t be the last. Also know that a sister, a friend, a co-worker may need your story to help them through their struggle!
I can definitely tell you my experience at the PA Women’s Conference and QVC’s partnership with the event has changed me and has only wet my whistle!
Sending you love….Nancy
Pre-Isabella, plans for the holidays were a no-brainer. We either spent Christmas with my family in Indiana or my husbands in Rhode Island. Easy breezy! I love the hustle and bustle of family tradition: church on Christmas Eve (my favorite service of the year), opening presents with all the kiddos, eating the yummy dinners, and playing games on Christmas Day. Enter Izzy.
I honestly thought we would continue doing things as we always had. But after Isabella’s second Christmas, I realized I wanted to us to have Christmas at home. I wanted her to put out food for the reindeer and cookies for Santa. I wanted her to wake up in her own bed Christmas morning and run down the stairs to see if Santa had filled her stocking and left a present under the tree. I know, a purely “romantic” thought, especially when you’re close to your extended family. When my husband and I began discussing the possibility of building our own Christmas, we thought: “We’ll disappoint our families”; “It’s just the three of us”; “ She won’t be with her cousins”; “Christmas won’t be the same”, “We’re being selfish.”…on and on. It took us about 6 months to decide that we were going to stay home for the holiday. Yikes!
So, on Christmas Eve Isabella put food out for the reindeer and left cookies, milk and a note for Santa. Oh my, she was so excited she could hardly sleep.
Reindeer food!
Getting Santa's cookies ready!
Christmas morning she awoke and went right to the window to see if the reindeer had eaten their snack…and they had. She ran down the stairs and saw the stockings full, the cookies and milk gobbled up and a note from Santa thanking her for the goodies.
Big smile when Iz discovered Santa ate his cookies & brought her Pooh Bear!
What joy it brought to our hearts to see her surprise and delight! It was everything I had dreamed and more! Can’t wait to see what this Christmas brings!
Wishing you a happy, healthy, blessed and joyful Holiday Season!
-Nancy
Oh what a beautiful gem! You MIGHT hear this stone referred to as an “Emerald by day and Ruby by night”. That’s because the finest quality of these gemstones displays aphenomenon called, “color-change”. When you view this member of the Chrysoberyl family, the actual colors that are seen will vary. Color can shift from a blue-green to a purplish violet. The finest flaunts a grass green in daylight. But place it near the romance of candlelight, and its passion burns to a raspberry red. There are only a handful of other gems like sapphire, spinel, garnet & fluorite that boast an ability to change color. But none compare to the history and allure of the Magical Alexandrite!
There is some confusion as to the date of discovery. Some claim Alexandrite was discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains while searching for emeralds in 1830 on the future Russian Tsar’s birthday. Others believe it was found in 1934. Regardless of the actual date of discovery, strangely, the colors displayed in the finest alexandrite were also the colors of the Russian Flag. What good luck! What good fortune! And thus, this gem was given its name in honor of the Russian Tsar Alexander II. It is to this day known as the “Gem of the Tsars”!
The Alexandrite gems found in the Ural Mountains during the 1930’s set the standard. Unfortunately, these stones are very hard to come by these days. In fact, according to the GIA, “Fine Alexandrite is so scarce that it has virtually disappeared from the gem marketplace except as an expensive collector’s gem.” Fortunately, deposits in Sri Lanka, Brazil, India, Myanmar & locations in Africa have given us lovely commercial-quality Alexandrite.
Wearing one piece of Alexandrite might invite loneliness…so, legend tells us to wear two! (Thankfully, it has excellent hardness, so you can wear it to your heart’s content!) What if you don’t have two? No worries! Legend also tells us that June’s alternative birthstone inspires imagination & brings joy! Whew!
No matter what draws you to this magical, mystical and mighty gemstone, I hope you will cherish it for a lifetime!
Gem Day is January 2nd! I’ll show you a variety of gemstones during Gemstone Jewelry Clearance at 3am (hopefully, the Alexandrite ring will still be available). At 5am I’ll be with you to celebrate the rich, royal Amethyst! Join me!
-Nancy
My Friend, Kristen (20), my daughter (4-1/2), and I (49) thought it would be fun to style the DNC “How Smooth” TSV Jean in dark indigo to see what 3 generations of fashion-sense would look like. Actually, we’re not all that different, especially when it comes to statement pieces.
I decided on a casual, yet dressy look for the jeans. The snowy white DNC cascade open cardigan with the Nordic border felt right for this time of year. I didn’t want to take anything away from the beautiful border of the cardi; so, I chose the ivory shell with a soft neckline as my foundation. For jewelry, I wanted something bold & chose the Joan Rivers necklace and earring set. I couldn’t decide which shoes I liked better…my cowboy boots or my buckle heels. But looking at it again…I’d go with the buckle heels for the casual-dressy look I originally had in mind.
Kristen loves plaid; so she chose to pair the jeans with a long sleeve plaid blouse that has a mix of navy, red, white, yellow & pink. She felt the plaid, by itself, was a little too loud. So pairing it with her navy sweater toned the plaid and made for a nice wintery look. For accessories, Kristen loved the “Vera Wang” bubble necklace to add a statement & the chunky-heel, round-toed brown boots to complete the look.
Isabella immediately chose her Valentine’s Day dress to pair with the DNC jeans. She loved the pop of color the hearts provided and added her Crocs to keep the color theme going. For an added bonus, she also chose a bubble necklace that Kristen made!
Now it's your turn! How would you style them?
Garden Season 2014 is in full swing! That means the boys are back ...Roberta’s Unique Gardens Boys, that is!
Four generations and over 50 years!
Their greenhouses are only about an hour away from Indianapolis. So, while I was home last May, I asked Eric if my family (all avid gardeners) and I could take a tour of Roberta’s. He said, “Sure! Come on down!” I took some pictures because I thought you might want to experience Roberta’s, too!
We (my mom, Dad, Sister Susie, Isabella & I) arrived mid-morning to a nice welcome from Eric and Mark, his Operations Manager.
First up - The seeds are where it all begins.
Isabella loved seeing all the plants, especially the “hen”!
These are “chicks” of the “hens & chicks” or sempervivum, which means “live forever”.
Close-up of the “hen” that Izzy is holding.
Look at the rich red snap dragon! These come back every year as opposed to an annual that you find elsewhere. And the flower actually snaps when you pop it!
Just one of the row of state-of-the-art greenhouses on the Roberta’s property.
I love this picture! It shows the health & lush nature of their plants. Believe it or not, this is the end of the season when nearly everything has shipped!
These are big, gorgeous roots that will become “Itoh Peonies”. This is Kevin’s favorite plant we sell. It’s a cross between your garden peony, tree peony and Tibetan peony.
Gratuitous shot! Lol! (Hens & Chicks that are growing a “cottony sweater”.)
We decided to jump into the semi that is waiting to bring you this year’s Roberta’s treasures!
After we left the grounds, we headed to Eric’s house to meet his family and have lunch. And low and behold, who showed up? Koort!
Needlesstosay, we had a great day at Roberta’s!! I was completely impressed by the healthy, beautiful plants, the operation and the family atmosphere that exists after all these years. Their mission has always been to bring you “Hard-To-Find, Easy-To-Grow” plants. Four generations and fifty years later, Roberta’s is still going strong! I’m sure their Mom, Roberta, would be proud to see her sons & grandsons taking such good care of her namesake! A big thank you to Eric, his Team & his family for their Hoosier hospitality!
-Nancy
Jenny was the first best friend I ever had! I hadn’t spent any time with her in nearly 40 years until just a few weeks ago. And I can tell you, I would have CHOSEN her as my first friend! Let me explain.
Our parents met over 50 years ago when Jenny’s folks moved to Indianapolis. Our dads were in residency together. Our moms became best friends & one another’s support system. Jenny & I were born about a month apart. That meant a total of 8 kiddos between the families! (Wow! I can’t even imagine.) Because our moms were BFF’s, Jenny & I became BFF’s by default. Fast forward to when my memory starts…
I vividly remember our special lunches at Block’s Tea Room. Oh, how I loved those lunches! I felt like such a big girl. I had a best friend just like my mom. We would laugh and giggle while our moms talked about grownup things. After our meal, we got to pick out a special toy from the treasure chest to take home. Sweet memories for sure.
But those weren’t the only sweet memories with Jenny. We went to see movies together, had birthday and slumber parties together and played together until we were about 5 or so. Every ticket stub, each toy from the Tea Room and all the other mementos from our time together went into a cigar box under my bed. That box represented my friendship with Jenny. But like a lot of first friendships, it faded away.
Jenny’s family moved into a new neighborhood with new kiddos and found a new best friend. It broke my heart. Being so little, I didn’t have the mental capacity to understand the loss. I just knew we didn’t play together any more. Jenny and her friend always asked me to play with them; but for some reason or another, it didn’t work out. So, our friendship faded. Gratefully, our mom’s did not!
Because our moms have remained dear friends for all these years, we have been able to keep tabs on each other’s lives. It just so happened that while I was in Florida on vacation visiting my folks this year, Jenny was there visiting her folks, too! And guess what we did?? We went to lunch just like we did when we were 5! She hasn’t changed one bit. Her smile, her kind eyes, her voice, her sweet spirit all exactly as I remember. I love her just as much now as I did when we were kids. Which is why…I would have CHOSEN her as my first best friend, regardless!!
My mom, Penny (Jenny’s mom), Jenny and my sweet daughter, Isabella. These wonderful women have put their stamp on my life! Thank you, Girls!
-Nancy
The generations are at again, this time with the Lenox Stainless Steel Flatware Set. My Friend, Kristen (20), Isabella (4-1/2) and I (49) each chose a different pattern of the Lenox Tableware and styled it for a formal dinner, an everyday table and a tea party. Guess who chose what?
Hi, it’s Isabella! I like this tea party because I like my tea set that I got for my birthday. I picked this polar bear because he’s really fluffy. He lives where Santa lives; and I like Santa. I picked this bunny because I like him; and he’s my favorite bunny’s brother. And I love him. That’s it! (Hi, it’s Nancy. The pattern she used was Covington. Doesn’t it make “Gracie” Bear’s birthday/tea party even more special?)
Hi, it’s Kristen! Nancy has a set of casual dinnerware passed down to her from her Grandma. I wanted to style these because they suit my personality. They are bright, cheerful and pink – that’s me! I chose the Brentwood pattern because it has a simple country feel that reminds me of my hometown (population 973).
I guess you know what I chose. Formal. OK, I really didn’t “choose” it. It was the only choice left. Ugh. Truth be told, I’m a casual girl all the way! So, I had to search the internet for tips on how to set a formal dinner table! I love the Bellevue pattern with my best china and my grandma’s crystal for Easter; but, I can totally see these being perfect for a picnic with paper plates. It’s sleek and elegant without any of the stuffiness.
What’s your style?: Casual, Formal or would you rather have a Tea Party with your favorite stuffed animals?
When I first saw the new TSV pants from Susan Graver, I thought “a printed pant?" Then I showed them to my friend, Kristen, and she went nuts! She loved them…and now I do, too! Since my sister, Sue, is in town visiting, I wanted her to get into the act too, to see how she would style them. Of course, Isabella & I couldn’t be left out. :) Check out how easy these pants were to style and how great they look on a 4 year old, 20 year old, 49 year old and 58 year old!
Kristen: Spring is finally here, and you know what that means, right?! Warm weather, bright colors, and lake trips! On Sunday, I took a break from the craziness of my final semester of college and went to the lake with some friends to enjoy the warmth. This outfit is inspired by the gorgeous weather that we've been having in Pennsylvania. The navy polka dot Susan Graver pants are flowy and perfect for a walk on the beach. And, what better color to pair with navy than pink!? I put on a beachy crocheted open cardigan and my floppy hat to pull everything together.
Sue: I’m visiting my sister, Nancy, for the week, and she asked me to do some styling with her. I’m 58 years old and love to wear “statement” pieces; but, I never thought in a million years I could (or would) wear a printed pant. But, boy, are the Susan Graver crop pants awesome! I absolutely love the fit, the fabric and the easy-to-wear print. The bohemian-style wedges and bright orange top made sense to pair with the woodcut print. I would absolutely wear this outfit to the office! (FYI – I’ll be ordering these at midnight, so that I can wear them to the office.)
Isabella: I love to play dress up!
Now me: I wanted to show you that this new crop pant from Susan isn’t just for casual affairs. They are also Madison Avenue, Kentucky Derby, I-have-very-good-taste-and-I-live-in-a-mansion affairs! I paired the polka print with a simple cami (that I’ve had for years), popped the only crisp white shirt I own over it & tied it at the waist. Next, I added some Jacqueline Kennedy jewelry, Joan Rivers sunglasses and a smashing pair of sandals with a little bit of bling and called it a day.
-Nancy
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Some of my best girlfriends are my 3 sisters, Susie, Cindy and Julie & my mom! They have been there for me through thick and thin and shown me unconditional love! And so did my Grandma Ann
This is me, my mom, my grandma, Cindy & Sue at Christmas dinner one year. We all love this picture. We were sad Julie wasn't in the pic with us.
My Grandma Ann is my mother’s, mom. She & her younger sister grew up in a pack of boys during the depression. Her first husband died when my mom was very young. Despite my great grandma’s complete disapproval, she got remarried to the most wonderfully kind man, Ed, a few years later. (They were married over 50 years!) My grandma worked in LaGrange, IL at Montgomery Wards in payroll until she retired. Not too long after retirement, she and my grandpa moved to Indianapolis to be closer to us.
Now, my Grandma was one a tough cookie. She would “give-you-what-for” if you stepped out of line; you definitely knew when she disapproved; and she rarely doled out hugs and “I-love-you’s” until later in life. Gratefully, I was the beneficiary of an enormous amount of love from her. I spent quite a bit of time with grandma while I was going through some of my most challenging times. She was so good to me. After my crisis passed, I continued to spend time with her. When I moved from Indy, I called her every Sunday until she died, just to check in and tell her I loved her.
The things I loved about my Grandma were her sugar cookies, her collection of angels, her faith, the way she said, “Oh, Nancy!” when I said something a little off-color, and her “wave”. (She waved up & down versus side to side, and she did it kind of fast. I channel that wave a lot! So, if you ever see me do it, you’ll know where I got it.)
Okay, now where do diamonds come in? First, let me say that my Grandpa absolutely adored my grandma. He exhibited the kind of love in 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. (Read that passage from the Bible, and you’ll know my grandpa.)
This my grandma & grandpa with my mom at my parents wedding in 1955.
On my grandparents’ 50th wedding anniversary, my grandpa gave her this diamond and gold necklace (see picture below).
She was overwhelmed that he gave her such an extravagant and beautiful gift. It was so sweet to watch as he slipped this token of his love and life with her around her neck. She wore it nearly every day until she went to be with the Lord. I was given this diamond necklace in remembrance of her…one of my best friends!
Have you been given a diamond by someone you love? If so, is the diamond or the person who gave it to you, “a girl’s best friend”?
My husband, Jim, is from Providence, RI, just a stone’s throw away from the factory where many of the EternaGold jewelry items are made. After our first show together, Ted Leach kindly extended an open invitation to tour the factory.
There are so attributes about EternaGold that are incredible. My favorites are the strength of their gold and their Limited Lifetime Manufacturer’s Warranty. Who does that??
Anyhoo, 2 years later, I finally made my way to Attleboro, Mass for the tour, and it was awesome!! I was so happy that my sister-in-law, Carmen, who is a jewelry fanatic, was able to come with me. The first thing we saw were bricks of gold (actually, they were more like 2x4’s of gold). I kid you not! We were both blown away by that and that the vast scope of technology, innovation and the sheer size of the factory. It was huge! Here are a few pictures of our trip last Spring (captions by Ted Leach).
Cupels in the fire assay lab. The little beads are pure gold.
Leach & Garner gold casting grain (nuggets of gold used as raw material for casting jewelry).
Picture of Ted’s grandfather Ed Leach (on the right) who founded Leach & Garner in 1899, and his partner Stephen H. Garner on Ed Leach’s dock in Vermont. C. 1945.
Wire being drawn through diamond dyes.
Discs of gold to be formed into tubing.
Polishing shot. This is used in the finishing process by tumbling jewelry in it to clean it and polish it.
Patent on Leach & Garner Gold.
Grigory Raykhtsaum—co inventor of Leach & Gold
Monday was beautiful! The sun was shining, and it was actually HOT on our porch. Since it was so nice and warm, Kristen (20), Iz (4) and I (49) decided to style Susan Graver’s latest terry dress, coming up at midnight, and take the pictures outside. As usual, we had a ball! Check out what we did;
Kristen: First, let me say, that I love the bright colors Susan gave us in this dress. The second thing I love about the dress is the pockets! They make it better by a mile, in my opinion. For accessories, I debated between a statement necklace and a scarf (my everyday struggle). In the end I decided my mint green floral scarf looked super cute. I added matching bubble earrings and a couple of pearl bracelets. For my feet I chose wedges. (I’ve become obsessed with wedges this season. They’re a COMFORTABLE fashion staple.) What cute outfit. This is every Fashionista’s dream!
Nancy: A complete no-brainer dress! There are endless possibilities; but, ultimately, I settled on styling it as a swim cover-up. I’ve got my beach towel, Joan Rivers sunglasses, Philosophy sunscreen, Orthaheel sandals, and a cool drink of water with a big juicy red strawberry. Summer, here I come!
Isabella: I like to play outside. Mommy can play with me. She has pockets to carry my toys.
How would you style this great summer dress?
-Nancy
