I thought you got point across in the last video. The problem is the people, not you. They didn’t listen to what you said, latched on to the point that you didn’t like the doctor and made the assumption (without really hearing you) that you didn’t listen to the doctor. Hang tough, you are making the best decisions for you!
Samantha your honesty and openness have been so appreciated. I got diagnosed as a stage 4 out of the gate with bone mets in sept 2018. You explain things so well. And all the haters have NO IDEA... they are probably not cancer warriors and don't get it. Stage 4 cancer patients walk a unique challenging road. Finding joy everyday and living your best life can be whatever you want. Being a mother, travelling the world or being a cancer spokeswoman...do you. I love that you don't apologize. We shouldn't have to.
I was in a breast cancer support group and the number one “rule” was we were to support everyone’s decision for their care plan and/or treatments (even if we didn’t necessarily agree). That was almost twenty years ago. Sending positive vibes and prayers your way!
oh,dear Samantha ,please don’t give any more energy to people who have no idea what you are going through and have no right to second guess your decisions. My goodness dear one,your decisions are your decisions and no one can know all your thoughts and reasonings for any decision you make .Your daughter is an amazing gift for you ,your husband and your family to have and enjoy and cherish.You are a bright,thoughtful. warrior .Sending hope and love from Canada.💓🎉🎇
You got your point across JUST FINE. Please don’t be concerned about what other people interpret. We’ve sadly discovered in the 21st century that many people are NOT critical thinkers. They manage life differently. Most are quite ignorant and hateful. You were clear, thoughtful and completely understandable. Stay strong🙏🏽 and ignore people who choose to misunderstand you. You don’t owe them any further explanation.
@@hattarapilviWe did not have social media until the latter part of the 20th century, and so in times not so far in the past, People couldn’t hurt with their words anonymously, or be snarky as you just were.
Should we really be arguing between ourselves about how people are or were or who was nasty or nice? Can't we all just try to be nice? Isn't that what life is meant to be about & at the end of the day it isn't OUR cancer journey is it? Just let the girl say what she wants to say is all
Samantha Lynn, if anyone in your life comes at you with anything negative set them aside & build your circle of people, dr’s, friends, family, or whoever who build you up & support you. Life is tough & short as it is for someone who is not sick much less someone with cancer. You are beautiful, strong, & only you know what works the best for you. Your daughter is a gift from God, just as your are. Live your life as you see fit for you & those who think otherwise drop them & let them go. Block them from your channel & build your channel of those people who love & care about you. You need positive people not any negativity in your life. Live life to the fullest & know people love you & are praying for you. May God ease any pain & we claim full healing in Jesus name amen.❤
It’s not dr’s being negative it’s dr’s being real and not beating around the bush. You gotta remember this is recurring cancer and this isn’t a game. Not everyone gets multiple chances to treat this and some measures might need to taken that one doesn’t like in order to truly beat this.
@@mysterycomment1553 I agree with you on that one. I would rather a dr. Be straightforward & tell the truth than sugar coat it. I’m just trying to lift the spirit of someone sick & in need of support. My mom died with cancer & when they told her that treatment would only help with the pain but not prolong her life she chose to live out her life without chemo or anything & she didn’t last long but we done everything she could & wanted to do. I just think that anyone sick with anything should not waste time with those who don’t support them & uplift them, but on the other hand they don’t need lies & false hopes either. Thanks for letting me know how my reply might have been worded wrong. Blessings to you to.
@@mysterycomment1553 in the video, samantha talked about negative youtube comments, and this comment suggests blocking people from her channel. it seems pretty clear to me that they are more referring to negative people on the internet, not literally the doctors lol
I love doctors who don’t sugar coat and tell it how it is too! I don’t have a problem with any doctor that does this! I did have a problem with the doctor I saw constantly talking over me and not listening to my questions. I also didn’t appreciate the incorrect information she gave me. Some of the points she made were great though!
@@SamanthaL It’s hard to be where you are & we can only imagine because we aren’t there & it’s different for everyone. I think you are handling things the best you can & I see you fighting for time with your daughter. I would fight also to a point. I see more bad outcomes from taking treatments than good, most only prolonged the pain without quality of life & we’re hurting beyond hurting just for family members while a few made it through for some years so you never know because every case is different &!only you know what you can handle so choose wisely & know you don’t have to suffer for anyone or anything. Live your life as you see fit & when you have had enough you will know. There is a higher power ( Jesus Christ) &!either he will heal you here on earth or in heaven with him. He knows best & that’s where your trust should lie. Human are wrong but God never is. My prayers are with you in whatever you decide & im here day or night if you need to talk, cry, pray, or all out just vent. May God continue to bless & keep you & may he bless every moment you have with your family in Jesus name I pray Amen.
Thank you for taking time to explain even more details. Your previous video was very clear. All that really matters is what you, your doctors and your family think! I'm praying for you to not have unbearable side effects and for these treatments to work amazingly well!
When I was getting a second opinions on my Stage 3A breast cancer treatment…ALL I ever heard from the MDs was how BIG and AGGRESSIVE my tumor was…with just all the bad stuff. ((I can’t remember the details bc it was so traumatizing)). It made me feel like -> I was to die. I went on a spending spree for the past 7 1/2 years and got myself into serious debt. Because: I THOUGHT I was going to die. And, figured my 401K would cover the costs. Here I am almost 8 years later and in bankruptcy…lol. My long winded point is: MDs are very smart but a lot of them don’t realize the power of their words. A lot of them need more training on how to talk to patients. Sending you a big hug!!! ❤
I think the unedited video last time did cause some confusion. Your commentary was more focused on the negative experience aspect, rather than the change in treatment decision. You are a powerful young woman, with a strong presence and you have conviction and opinions. This is going to be triggering to some people. You do you and live your life - you are on the right path for you and do not owe anyone explanations.
Thanks again Samantha for the update. You seriously never need to edit your videos again. Don’t bother. You come through loud and clear just speaking naturally, and your personality and your feelings give us a very complete picture of who you are and what you are experiencing. Lots of good information in this video. I learn so much from you. Not just about medical stuff but even how to march forward with your head held high into a scary future. You are wonderful!! I love how you stick up for yourself. You are helping some of us out here be stronger too. I tell myself, “if Samantha can do these things I will also be able to do them if the time comes”. You are one of my heroes, even if I know that it is the last thing you would wish to be. Sending you a huge hug through these screens and so proud of you. ❤
YOU HAVE BECOME A WORLD WIDE DOCTOR BY ACCIDENT. Congratulations. Love from Brighton. England . You are a very admirable person. Love a person who sticks up for what they feel is right. ❤
Hi Samantha. I am sorry people made judgemental comments on your last video. Most people here have never had breast cancer or menopausal symptoms in their 20s. This is your journey and your life. I was worried for you when you stopped treatment but - look - now you have a daughter and brought a life into the world. You do strike me as someone who downplays things and I attribute that to having a fighting spirit and think it's just a coping tool for you. I pray you tolerate this treatment. Thank you for sharing your journey!
You have to be a strong person to be able to make these decisions for yourself. You are an amazing woman who is trying to navigate through this awful and unpredictable cancer journey. Thank you for sharing so much. These videos will undoubtedly help many other women in similar situations. ❤x
Xgeva is awesome! I’ve had BC with Bone Mets for almost 11 years. 5 years ago I needed both hip replaced. My hip surgeon had never done hip surgery on anyone with xgeva. The damage done from the cancer and radiation was there and I needed pins but the Dr said my other bones were like a teenager. I was 63 when I had the surgery! My hips are great! I am still doing well! 11 years with Stage 4!!!
Negative people have no life. I completely understood what you were saying and agree with you 100%! I'm glad you stood your ground on your decision to keep your ovaries. Being unnaturally thrown into menopause IS NOT FUN! I'm living proof of that (and I'll be 55 in May). I've been living with ALL the nasty symptoms of menopause for over 15 years, and it gets worse EVERY year! Being a former cancer patient excludes me from hormone therapy! Your decisions are yours, so make the decisions you feel are best for YOU!
"Negative people have no life." 2 things. First, the people who were criticizing Samantha were criticizing her for being so negative. About the doctor, about hormone therapy, about her decisions. Being negative is a 2 way street. When experts in the field recommend something, your rejection of it based on a generally negative perception (based on doctors' personality, or reactions to drugs previously..... is simply childish. People here were undoubtedly screaming at Samantha on their computer screens, saying, "Jesus Christ, you brat! We are talking about life or death here. You are complaining that you wouldn't be able to be with your daughter fully if you were feeling bad ----- but you would be there. You would be talking to her, having her feel her mother's love, creating a memory of you loving her that she needs." Samantha is an extremely demanding person. She wants things on HER terms, and will settle for nothing else. In a normal life situation that is admirable. In cancer? It is merely counterproductive. Secondly, Assertiveness is not positivity. Samantha deludes herself in thinking she is stoic, and minimizes complaints. She is the least stoic person I can think of. She complains about keeping track of her medication as "annoying" in that she prefers not to think about herself ---- thus, in her mind at least, making her childishness sound self-sacrificing and noble. But it is not either of those things. To say "I find having to take drugs for cancer and then to have to take drugs because of the drugs.... annoying" will make people here dismiss you. Samantha, you are talking about life and death. About surviving or dying. Using words like "annoying" to describe having to take medicines that will keep you alive longer, is INFURIATING!!!! Who cares about annoying? Man up, for god's sake. There are MILLIONS of people going thru this at the exact same time as you. Not all of them have access to the care you do. They would be suitably grateful.
Dear goodness @aliceschmid9697 you clearly have never had bad experiences with doctors because if you have then you would know that there are some doctors out there that do not care about their patients, they only care about themselves. I hope you never have to go through seeing a doctor that completely discredits you and makes you feel less than a human being. Also, that doctor was not even Samantha’s first doctor! She went to get a 4th or 5th opinion because she has seen SO MANY DIFFERENT ONCOLOGISTS to try to come up with the best treatment plan for her. I’ll remind you that the first doctor she ever saw said she was overreacting about her lump and refused to give her anything that was not an antibiotic. Imagine if she did not advocate for herself after that. Additionally, you saying she wants everything on her own terms is absolutely insane. She did not choose to have cancer, just has someone with asthma did not choose to have asthma. When being placed in a situation that changes your whole life, wouldn’t you want some type of say in the few choices you have??? I genuinely hope you learn to have even an ounce of empathy towards others.
You must be a very unhappy person. You wrote this very nasty rant here + again as a comment. I'll respond to the comment but here I'll say that you need to ask yourself why you feel the need to be so nasty + critical to a young mother who is trying to cope the best she can dealing with the serious side effects of meds she MUST take + that impact her ability to be her best self for her year old daughter. How can you criticise that? Empathy is putting yourself in another's shoes + feeling + dealing with their problems. I can very easily empathize with Samantha + her dilemma. It must be extremely hard. Comments should be to support this young mom - that's what she needs.
Honestly, screw anyone who thinks they have the right to criticize you or your decisions, it's you who lives it, not them... keep going girl 💪, you know what's best for you. I send you a lot of positive energy from Colombia ❤
I agree with your female doctor, chemo does create resistance and new mutations. Hormone therapy is the best option and priority, chemo can come later. I have a feeling this doctor seemed cold and unsensitive because she was probably upset when you told her you stopped your hormone therapy in the past. Praying for you , and sending positive thoughts. Your baby daughter needs her mom and she will have her❤🙏
You were clear in your last videos. And even if you did not listen to the doctor, it is your journey, your life and your body. You can get opinions and then make your own decision. It is so important to feel like your oncologist gets you and supports your choices. I changed my oncology center after I felt like I was not listened to and am so much happier having a smart, capable AND understanding doctor who cares what my priorities and thoughts are. People who are not on this journey might not understand how important being on the same page with our oncologist is.
I do rememeber and still do when I got Mayo Clinic in Rochester to do surgery on my heart when three other facilitites said it was not medically a good surgery. Mayo Clinic literally laughed and admitted me on the spot. "Go to your hotel room get your suitcases and check into the hospital in two hours." I cried then and am now writing it. Eight years later alive and kicking like a wild horse❤
I’m sorry others cannot handle YOUR decisions. It’s not their life. Everyone is not the same. You are a bright, intelligent young women who understands the alternatives. I have stage 4 met too bones. Back when the original diagnosis came and after my research, I chose no chemo or radiation. The statistics were 5 years with treatment. It’s been five years at least I was not sick and not participating with my family because of reactions. To me at my age which is almost 80 quality was my goal, still is. So unfortunately now I have malignant pleural effusion. With all that said, the choices were mine, not anyone else’s. Just as they are yours. You are young and have a wealth of knowledge. Lots of luck and lots of prayers.
I’m so glad that younger women are sharing their journeys! I don’t know if my experience will help but I was diagnosed Stage 4 ER/PR +, HER 2 low with bone met to left femur- three years ago. Ibrance, zoladex, letrozole, Zometa. Letrozole was HORRIBLE. About six months in, I switched to exemestane and it was a life changer. I also stopped Zometa a year ago (Claritin helped but I still hated it) and my latest Dexa shows normal bone mass so I’m hoping to just continue to monitor it. I’m still on my first line of treatment besides the change to exemestane. I’m hoping your AI change works well for you! ❤
You are absolutely amazing Samantha‼️ I am a breast cancer survivor of almost 5 years and I could not tolerate the side effects of hormone therapy and I tried three different options before I chose to stop treatment. You have exceptional clarity and awareness of your needs and goals for your treatment plan . Please never apologize for your choices …. You are an inspiring , intelligent young woman ‼️‼️
Hi Samantha! I think. you were very clear in the last video about the details but thank you for updating again. It's hard to make a large group of people (TH-cam audience) understand everything. Sending you so much love and best wishes. Be proud of yourself and your choices. Your life and your daughter are beautiful.
I know of somebody who just went to Cleveland Clinic and there is a lot of hope where there was none. They removed a tumor around his heart, and making no promises, this young man has real hope. You were wise to go there!
Hello Samantha, I just wanted you to know that I understood everything you said on your video before this one. I think you took the correct actions for the information you received. I can’t believe people say anything about your decisions. When I see you on the next video, I am just so glad to see you and hear about your progress and decisions. I wish I could see your baby girl, but I totally see that you want to protect her privacy. I have watched you since the first video, and I wish you the very best. Beverly
I’m shocked that you had negative comments on your last video. Please don’t take any notice. The huge majority of people who watch these videos just want the best for you and your insight as a young woman going through this is invaluable. Thank you for continuing to provide updates despite any negativity, and don’t feel the need to downplay anything as your authenticity is hugely appreciated❤❤
Samantha please don’t let people’s opinions upset you. It’s your body and you need to feel good about the dr who is treating you. Remember Samantha mother’s intuition is something we all should listen to. Keep up the fight!
You’re spot on. There’s a reason Anastrozole is ok for you but not me when I had ovaries. I was told so long as I had ovaries, I couldn’t take the anastrozole so suffered thru Tamoxifen and was thrilled for my oophorectomy bcuz I have PCOS and it caused my breast cancer. So I threw those things out on in October and haven’t had any side effects from the Anastrozole. Cancer treatment truly is individualized. I send you huge hugs!
I just love and look forward to your updates. I’m also stage 4 with Mets to multiple bones. It’s nice hearing someone else going through such a similar story to mine.
I’m pretty fed up with people and their opinions! You keep on doing you! I think you are very insightful, and explain eloquently what you’re going through. If people make different choices, those of us who have had cancer understand that there are many different paths to take at every step through treatment, and that it’s a very personal decision. I think people who have opinions and haven’t been through this should just back off. Even having gone through it, and having a different type of cancer, I would never ever question someone else’s personal choices. Your attitude is amazing. And your life is amazing and you are amazing so don’t listen to the haters ever ever ever! I always tune in to your videos because I love to hear how you explain things and how you’re living your life. I think you’re inspirational.
Samantha ignore people they are as I said ignorant. You are doing the right thing and what people say does not matter. It is about you, your body, your family, and taking in to consideration what the dr says. As a nurse I have to say this because listen to you not the dr the dr doesn't know you only the disease. Everyone responds differently
Samantha, you are such a stoic person. I don’t know anybody could think you are a complainer about your illness. I wish you would block all people who think they know more than you about your illness. You are such a calm, intelligent person you’re doing exactly right thing for your individual situation.
I think it’s easy for us to have opinions about other people’s treatment choices when we’re not in that position. We should all try to remember that your treatment choices are what work for you and your family. It doesn’t matter what I think about it. It doesn’t matter if I assume I would have different preferences or priorities. This is your life. This is your journey. You didn’t get to choose whether or not you got cancer but you can absolutely choose your path forward and how you want to deal with it.
Prayers and well wishes go out to you dear Samantha. 33 years ago at 31 years old I was prescribed Lupron after ovarian surgery for endometriosis…horrible horrible side effects! I understand exactly what you mean when you say you just didn’t feel like yourself! Fast forward to 8 years ago with my first BC I refused to take the AI hormones as I was terrified of hormonal side effects again. This November I was diagnosed with a 2nd primary BC (not metastasis) in my other breast and this time my doctors are encouraging the AI hormonal treatment again and reluctantly I’m going to give it a chance. All any of us with cancer can do is take it one day at a time and make the best decisions we can at the time with the information we are given while taking into consideration our quality of life and our loved ones. 🙏🏻💗
You put your points forward clearly, and I believe you were being objective. We should never take what any doctor says without being discerning and checking that what they have said is backed up with solid evidence. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make once you have all the facts, which I believe is what you are doing. ❤
I am not a cancer patient but I follow your journey. Please don't explain yourself. In my opinion this is your chanel and you own experience's that matters. You have full right to express your negative emotions after bad doctor appointment, especially that you going through a lot now. You deserve nothing but tone's of love an support❤
Anastrozole was really harsh for me. I lasted 6 months because I didn't want to give up. I have 2 children. At the end, I had to switch because my bone pain was unbearable. I've been on examestane now for 3 years. Now and then I get a really bad episode of bone pain, but I'm not giving up. The longer I'm using it, the more I'm used to feeling like an 80 years old woman. It's not ideal but it is still life.
Please don’t let people’s negative opinions make your journey more difficult. You’re making decisions that are right for you and your beautiful family. ❤
Samantha, you came across beautifully in your last video. I understood exactly what you were saying and what you meant. I've had Crohn's Disease since I was 11 years old. I'm 46 years old now. There have been doctors that have rubbed me the wrong way, there have been doctors that have been downright rude to me, and there have been doctors that I have not agreed with a single thing that came out of their mouths. I was never afraid of advocating for myself, and that's exactly what you did with this particular doctor. There is absolutely nothing wrong with letting the medical team know what you want and how you feel. I applaud you!👏❤️ I love your updates, and you're in my daily prayers. Keep on kicking ass! You are a true warrior!❤️🙏
Sounds like a great plan. Also I, who don’t know you thought you were downplaying how you felt. I know you don’t want to complain, but I hope you will tell them when it’s bad, you never know when an added or different med will change it all up. You have always had a great attitude . Love on your baby girl, get that serotonin working in your favor! Please take care. Continued prayers, Samantha
I had stage 1 breast cancer. It was still in the breast. I remember so clearly that my head was spinning with all the decisions I had to make. I listened to the doctors, read lots and lots of information and made the best treatment decisions for me. I thank goodness nobody second guessed me. I would have made me crazy. You are very good at explaining your treatment thank you for sharing.
Samantha I really Adore you !!!!! 🤩 I Love Love your personality and manner especially ✨️ ... I wish I had your way !!!! I love how calm and low key and easygoing /mild .. you are (when I am a more anxious person internally etc ) I know it's not easy to announce what one is going to do in the face of cancer ! ... and you are the most gracious person 🙏🧡 but i want to support you in whatever you're deciding to do !! I want to support your courage in the way you will seek and take treatment .. your way ok. your videos are perfectly perfectly clear sweets ✨️✨️✨️ there will always be increasing numbers of quibblers online and ppl who dissect things their way you are perfectly clear to me please rest assured I get you ... the smart ppl get you and please be bold and own whatever you want to do 🤩🤩 I love you for your way Samantha !!!!!!!!!! ✨️✨️ I have so so much love and admiration for you I can't tell ya !! Your soul shines down here to new zealand Samantha 🌵🌵🌵 ✨️✨️✨️ sandy
Your videos are excellent and I love the time, energy, and effort to share and inform your viewership. You’re in active treatment and a mom AND responding to keyboard warriors. Bravo! You are an active participant in your treatment and THAT is something everyone should take note of. I saw how incredibly hard it was for you to do the last video. Thank you beautiful! Hugs from the mile-high 🤗
Samantha you are a beautiful person I am from Portugal and I am a doctor ( not Oncologist) You explain things very well I don t understant how people can be so mean You are living your life and taking your decisions based on cientific evidence You deserved your baby Life is also about dreams And dare to achieve them I wish you all the best If I lived in your country I would do everyting to help
You said everything perfectly! You made it clear that while you didn't care for this person or her bedside manor, you took away valuable information. People need to understand that you aren't going to jive with every care provider, but you can respect their options. Sending lots of good vibes your way! ❤❤❤
Hi Samantha,I wish u all the best now for the journey your on,be positive,strong,u will be ok girl,I'm going threw stage 4 breast cancer myself,and believe me love,u just find the strength to get on with treatments,I wish u so well, Bernice from cork Ireland
I love your unedited videos and I'm sorry you got so much negative feedback from your last video. I thought you explained your experience with the other doctor very well. It's your life and it's only you who can decide your path through this terrible hand you have been dealt. You don't need to apologize to anyone for anything you say or do. Nobody should have to go through what you are dealing with and you are doing an amazing job making your way through this. 💗💗
I’ve been on Anastrazole for 1 year, 3 months. Though I know that timing exactly - ha! I haven’t had side effects. Sending a prayer to the universe that the same is true for you! ❤️
It's your life and you have to live it the way you want. I'm not sure why people are so judgemental. Every person is different. Stay confident. I can't imagine going through this again at such a young age. Hang tough. Thanks for sharing your story. It's such a personal thing to share.
I think what you said was clear and made sense. you're a very articulate person and in my opinion you communicate very clearly. sending you best wishes, hope your treatment goes well
Your journey and experiences are yours alone and you owe no one an explanation! If anyone has negative commentary, unsolicited, that does not belong to you. That is on them. I appreciate your sharing with us and opening the process of what you are going through. Thank you, and you are in my heart along with your family. Much love to you.
Beautiful Samantha, following you for long time. Please stay strong and do not worry what others say. we are praying for you. I have stage 4 colon cancer too and I can relate what you are going through in life.
Sweetie, I truly feel sad you have to re explain yourself. You are a warrior and your daughter is so blessed to have a mommy so strong fighting every day for her and yourself. I truly think that until folks walk in your shoes, they will never understand. While going through the fight of your life again, you are doing the best you can. I'm so proud of you. Our life doesn't come with a manual it's a day to day written story. Your pages are filled with love, strength, and hope. I am truly amazed with your grace in this journey. Sending you much love a grandma in Massachusetts ❤
Girl stop explaining yourself!! It’s your channel, your cancer, your treatment! Stop apologizing and worrying about what others think and worry about yourself and your health and your family! You’re a beautiful young woman and you don’t have to explain yourself! You are in my prayers please be well
I have recently been told that I under report my pain , also. I don't know what to compare it to. I don't want to whine about every ache or uncomfortable twinge. I am blessed that Zometa, Letrozole and Ibrance are working with few side effects! You are so real and honest, I love that!!! Fight like hell and we will never give up!!
Oh mercy hon!!! No no no! It’s not you, it’s them. You don’t owe anyone an explanation of your life and your choices! And you explained it all very well! Seriously! You are obviously a smart, careful, wise, thoughtful adult and perfectly capable of making the best choices for YOU. It makes me so sad that you feel the need to explain and over explain for their sake. 😢😢. Block the difficult people and move on. You have plenty of us who love you and are cheering and praying for you! You are a delight and I for one am grateful for you!❤❤
Hey Samantha. I think you definitely got your point across. Just because it might have been one of the best cancer treatment hospitals in the world, doesn’t mean you have to like your doctor. We always hope we like our doctors but it isn’t always so just like people we meet. We don’t like everyone we meet. My breast surgeon had zero personality but heck he knew his job so I trusted him implicitly. Wishing you well in your treatment Samantha and thankyou for sharing your very informative videos and being you. Following from New Zealand ❤️
I don't think people who don't have cancer understand the overwhelming choices you have to make for treatment. Its your body, you have to decide what to do in the long run. Yes you will have many doctors tell you many things, trust your gut.
I also have stage 4 MBC with mets to lung, ribs, spine, arm, and lymph. I'm almost 3 years of my cancerversary and doing well. I am also on Verzenio and Femara (Letrozole). They both have weird side effects. The Verzenio gives me diarrhea every couple weeks and makes me sooooooooooo tired. The Letrazole made my joints ache but then it stopped and all is much better with it now. I've had surgery to remove a big spinal tumor (successful) and radiation to arm and ribs which slowed the mets down. I feel pretty good and my only complaint is fatigue to the point where I sleep 7-8 hrs a night and have to nap at least once in the daytime. I'm retired so it's much easier and I have help with everything, too. I'm praying for you to live a long life. MBC is much more treatable now and people are living years or even decades with good care and management. My suggestion to you is this: get plenty of rest and sleep. Eat a yogurt or two every day to help with the Verzenio diarrhea. Have some over the counter Immodium on hand JIC you have diarrhea. Take the Verzenio every 12 hours as it works best with a steady amount in your system. Polish your nails with nail strengthener because these drugs and the cancer can make finger and toenails brittle and easy to split. Do the fresh air and exercise as much as you can tolerate. Eat well and love that baby to pieces. Best of luck to you Samantha.
Friend ignore them trolls haters and bitter unkind unloving people. Live your life and thank you for sharing with us. It really really is a blessing. I watched your video a year or so ago. I know it sounds crazy but I feel dread I’m anxious and that’s not normally me. I thought I had colon cancer, I got a colonoscopy and it was perfect so I thought maybe a year ago I was paranoid for no reason. January I got a mammogram and they called me back for a sonogram. Now I have to do a breast biopsy and my back is hurting so bad. My mom had inflammatory breast cancer at my age. So fingers crossed all is clear next week from my biopsy but I feel uneasy
I understood what you meant, don’t put up with hater’s….BLOCK THEM!!! You know your body better than anyone. You have a HIGH tolerance to pain just try to write down your symptoms and that should help your Drs. help you more if any symptoms do pop up ❤ Thanks for sharing your experience!!!
Breast cancer survivor here and member of an all breast cancer survivor dragon boat team of 80 + women. These decisions on treatment are complex and individual. As a 60 something woman I was on arimedex for the length of time suggested for me, and yes side effects are real. I cannot imagine dealing with this as a young woman. I know women on our dragon boat team who changed meds or discontinued hormone blockers because of side effects. We also have a team member who had a beautiful baby. We have members who are long time survivors and others we have lost. In the end we take in the opinions of our medical teams and walk forward in whatever direction is right for us individually. Clearly you are doing exactly that! And may family, friends, and our community give us grace and support. Thanks for sharing your journey. Sending you warm thoughts and best wishes! ❤
I think what a lot of people who don't have cancer fail to grasp, is that it's not just trying to either beat or hold back the cancer, it's making sure life is still worth living while you're treating the cancer. So to some removing your ovaries no matter the side effects seems the obvious choice. But if the side effects mean the extra time granted you makes life unbearable, then is it really worth it? That is a personal choice that will be different for everyone. Thank you for being so open about your journey. You are incredibly brave to share with us the way you do.
Samantha, I’ve watched you for several years. You have grown up and greeted the chapters of your life with: joy in the good and grace and courage in the difficult. The joy of you sharing your family and sweet little daughter are special and I am so happy for you to experience those moments that make life worth the living. You look great and sharing your thoughts on treatment plans I am certain will bless others. When life is tricky, it’s hard for others to cope and it comes out as unkindness often without even meaning to. Please don’t take it to heart, they’re just not there yet. Much love and prayers.
You have to do what is right for you, and if you are already fighting cancer, and then you have to deal with the emotional part that this hormone therapy brings with it. I can’t imagine what that would feel like and you have to do it right for you.💔💔🙏🏽🙏🏽
You're doing amazing. Thinking of yourself is a selfless act in terms of motherhood and especially dealing with a life altering illness. You're actually thinking of others when putting your needs first , because in helping yourself you're being present to be there for your family. I'm also learning this. I am currently deciding on the chemo pill. I took would downplay symptoms and my oncologist told me to complain more as well. It sounds like you have an amazing support system , please continue to stay in the fight by any means you can , you're doing fantastic Sending much love 💕 and support. You're daughter is so blessed to have such a beautiful courageous warrior momma
You are a very strong woman, go with your gut! Be your own advocate. I have followed you and you always amaze me with your strength to fight like a warrior, God Bless you and your family ✝️❤️
Hello Samantha, I know it’s hard and there are tough decisions to make in the process of treatment and everything but we are all here supporting you! For me and many people, probably yourself too, music really helps. I listen to Tom MacDonald - Cancer & Dakota Rhodes - Running Up That Hill just to name a few. Maybe in your next video you can tell us some of your favorite songs that lift up your spirits when you’re upset and feeling down 🤷🏼♂️ Just a suggestion. Anyway, keep your head up. When things look cloudy, there is always a silver lining. Never give up! Much love ❤️ 👐
Samantha, hopefully they prescribed you an anti-depressant to help with menopause symptoms. It's part of the menopause "cocktail." It might help ease your symptoms...Wishing you luck with your new treatment plan!
I'm glad to hear you've got a care plan where you have some choices. It's been a heck of a week for me: whatever nasty virus I had for 3 weeks knocked my WBC down to 1.7. So I can't start Nerlynx or have reconstructive surgery until my white cells come back up. And my mother died yesterday. 😔
Thank you so much for sharing ❤. I started Letrozole Mar 23 and had my ovaries out 7/23. Even though I was pretty sure chemo put me in early menopause (I am in my late 40’s), I was very nervous to start this journey. I was lucky to have access to a oncology naturopathic physician to work with me on managing side effects and it has worked very well! Muscle/joint stiffness and pain have been manageable with Claritin, tart cherry juice and high dose magnesium and calcium. Relizen helps with hot flashes. Reveree is great for vaginal drynesss. All this was cleared by the integrated medicine dept at my hospital. I also found Neurali med probiotic really helpful for regulating my mood. I had PMDD and a history of depression, so that was my biggest concern going in. I guess my hopeful point is, you don’t need to necessarily stop the hormone inhibitors if you experience side effects right away. There are safe and non-pharma options you can take along side to reduce side effects. Love and light and healing 🌟
Samantha I saw your last video and I found you very clear and I believe you went beyond making your point clear. I saw some of the comments and people are just mean and people think they know what is best for other people. I wish these people would put themselves in your place and try to understand how you are looking at this and also what works for some may not work for all and vice versa. If I do not like a doctor I may not dismiss what they say or just some of what they say and latch on to the good. But that does not mean you are not listening. People just should keep such things to themselves if they have nothing positive to say to you. It’s not like we know you personally and you share to help others not be criticized or whatever. It makes me mad how critical and judgmental people are. You are very sweet and positive and thanks for sharing because you could shut down anytime. Don’t question yourself or listen to those types of comments to the point you are concerned about what you say because you’ll be misunderstood. There will always be the negative ones just ignore them. Sending hugs and prayers! ❤
You've explained it all very well. I am on anastrozole and while I was quite worried about side effects, so far all is well. Hardly any problems at all. I am post-menopausal and the only thing that bothers me at all is the dreaded hot flashes. It just does not seem fair to have to go through them TWICE. My husband says try being the husband of a woman going through them twice! I had to laugh. But as I said, otherwise, it's OK. I hope the same for you.
I totally get why the comments make you want to explain yourself, sometimes when I get negative comments I stew over them also and have responded. I hope that even though you didn’t need to clarify (because as the others have said, you were clear) they feel a bit less inclined to be judgmental. In the meantime I pray that your new treatment will work really well for as long as possible. Thanks for being on the internet! You’re the first cancer vlogger I started following years back and like so many people I stay tuned to new videos and wish you all the best.
I understood that you changed your entire treatment plan after you consulted with the doctor from the prestigious medical institution. I also understood that you didn’t appreciate her bedside manner. Wishing you ease of treatment and meaningful time with your daughter, husband & other important people in your life. ❤
I’m so sorry how cruel people can be. I’ve considered just ending my life now instead of letting a disease kill me. You are so strong. I’ve been married to an abusive doctor for years. So I can say that not all doctors are correct or are the best doctor for you. You’ve got this and are one of the strongest person I know. Much love from Kentucky Lesley and medical service dog Jake.
Your feelings are your feelings. Just because others say negative things it doesn’t negate your feelings. Only you know what you’re going through. Keep on being you!
Thanks for sharing your journey with us! It must be so hard to make medical treatment decisions when so much is at stake….let alone then having to feel like you have to defend them on here. I’m so glad you have your daughter to give you the reason to fight with all you got to beat this cancer! By the way, your explanation of how Zometa works is exactly how I describe it to my patients!
Hey Samantha, I wanted to encourage you to consider increasing your exercise routine during your hormonal therapy for cancer treatment. While I know it's a challenging time, exercising has been shown to help reduce side effects and improve overall health and well-being. Take care and stay strong! xxx
It really depends on the side effects. Mine were horrible joint pain. Knees, hands and feet. My knees were so bad I wanted to cry every time I had to sit down or stand up. I couldn’t squat at all. I had to have help standing up. My hands woke me out of my sleep they hurt so bad. I was exercising regularly but I couldn’t do it at all during that time.
Thank you for sharing Samantha, you are helping others navigate and understand this miserable journey. Your a warrior. You are an inspiration to me. God bless you, and heal you.🙏🏻❤️
Doctors give you options, and you as the patient need to be your own advocate, and make the right decision for yourself. You are doing the right thing and those complaining didn't understand the video or just want to complain. Blessings and prayers!
I understood the other video. On the other hand, it’s your choice what YOU decide what’s best for you. I will say you look fantastic. Bless you and your family.
The side effects can be so bad! About 3 months in to taking anastrozole and Lupron, I started getting horrible joint pain. My hands, feet and knees hurt so bad I could hardly stand it. My hands would wake me up at night. My knees hurt so bad I could barely sit and stand. The crazy thing is I ended up getting out on prednisone for a week for some pain o was having from surgery and ALL my pain went away! It’s been months now and the side effects haven’t returned! Woot woot! As my doctors said, they don’t want the treatment to be worse than the disease. Hang in there!
I thought you got point across in the last video. The problem is the people, not you. They didn’t listen to what you said, latched on to the point that you didn’t like the doctor and made the assumption (without really hearing you) that you didn’t listen to the doctor. Hang tough, you are making the best decisions for you!
Completely agree with you
Absolutely Agree Also. Samantha is a beautiful, and smart woman.
Yes I thought this as well!
100% accurate!
Thank you 💕
Samantha your honesty and openness have been so appreciated. I got diagnosed as a stage 4 out of the gate with bone mets in sept 2018. You explain things so well. And all the haters have NO IDEA... they are probably not cancer warriors and don't get it. Stage 4 cancer patients walk a unique challenging road. Finding joy everyday and living your best life can be whatever you want. Being a mother, travelling the world or being a cancer spokeswoman...do you. I love that you don't apologize. We shouldn't have to.
Sending you strength and love from a fellow stage 4 warrior ❤
So well put! 🩷
Thank you so much and I hope you’re doing well ❤
You explained everything just fine. Don't let others mess with your mind. It had nothing to do with not editing the video. You were crystal clear.
hello@@SamanthaL
I was in a breast cancer support group and the number one “rule” was we were to support everyone’s decision for their care plan and/or treatments (even if we didn’t necessarily agree). That was almost twenty years ago. Sending positive vibes and prayers your way!
oh,dear Samantha ,please don’t give any more energy to people who have no idea what you are going through and have no right to second guess your decisions. My goodness dear one,your decisions are your decisions and no one can know all your thoughts and reasonings for any decision you make .Your daughter is an amazing gift for you ,your husband and your family to have and enjoy and cherish.You are a bright,thoughtful. warrior .Sending hope and love from Canada.💓🎉🎇
❤
@@nanacheese9135😊
4:01 4:02. 4:34 4:40 .
You got your point across JUST FINE. Please don’t be concerned about what other people interpret. We’ve sadly discovered in the 21st century that many people are NOT critical thinkers. They manage life differently. Most are quite ignorant and hateful.
You were clear, thoughtful and completely understandable. Stay strong🙏🏽 and ignore people who choose to misunderstand you. You don’t owe them any further explanation.
and people were SO accepting and loving before the 21st century? 😂
@@hattarapilviWe did not have social media until the latter part of the 20th century, and so in times not so far in the past, People couldn’t hurt with their words anonymously, or be snarky as you just were.
Should we really be arguing between ourselves about how people are or were or who was nasty or nice? Can't we all just try to be nice? Isn't that what life is meant to be about & at the end of the day it isn't OUR cancer journey is it? Just let the girl say what she wants to say is all
Samantha Lynn, if anyone in your life comes at you with anything negative set them aside & build your circle of people, dr’s, friends, family, or whoever who build you up & support you. Life is tough & short as it is for someone who is not sick much less someone with cancer. You are beautiful, strong, & only you know what works the best for you. Your daughter is a gift from God, just as your are. Live your life as you see fit for you & those who think otherwise drop them & let them go. Block them from your channel & build your channel of those people who love & care about you. You need positive people not any negativity in your life. Live life to the fullest & know people love you & are praying for you. May God ease any pain & we claim full healing in Jesus name amen.❤
It’s not dr’s being negative it’s dr’s being real and not beating around the bush. You gotta remember this is recurring cancer and this isn’t a game. Not everyone gets multiple chances to treat this and some measures might need to taken that one doesn’t like in order to truly beat this.
@@mysterycomment1553 I agree with you on that one. I would rather a dr. Be straightforward & tell the truth than sugar coat it. I’m just trying to lift the spirit of someone sick & in need of support. My mom died with cancer & when they told her that treatment would only help with the pain but not prolong her life she chose to live out her life without chemo or anything & she didn’t last long but we done everything she could & wanted to do. I just think that anyone sick with anything should not waste time with those who don’t support them & uplift them, but on the other hand they don’t need lies & false hopes either. Thanks for letting me know how my reply might have been worded wrong. Blessings to you to.
@@mysterycomment1553 in the video, samantha talked about negative youtube comments, and this comment suggests blocking people from her channel. it seems pretty clear to me that they are more referring to negative people on the internet, not literally the doctors lol
I love doctors who don’t sugar coat and tell it how it is too! I don’t have a problem with any doctor that does this! I did have a problem with the doctor I saw constantly talking over me and not listening to my questions. I also didn’t appreciate the incorrect information she gave me. Some of the points she made were great though!
@@SamanthaL It’s hard to be where you are & we can only imagine because we aren’t there & it’s different for everyone. I think you are handling things the best you can & I see you fighting for time with your daughter. I would fight also to a point. I see more bad outcomes from taking treatments than good, most only prolonged the pain without quality of life & we’re hurting beyond hurting just for family members while a few made it through for some years so you never know because every case is different &!only you know what you can handle so choose wisely & know you don’t have to suffer for anyone or anything. Live your life as you see fit & when you have had enough you will know. There is a higher power ( Jesus Christ) &!either he will heal you here on earth or in heaven with him. He knows best & that’s where your trust should lie. Human are wrong but God never is. My prayers are with you in whatever you decide & im here day or night if you need to talk, cry, pray, or all out just vent. May God continue to bless & keep you & may he bless every moment you have with your family in Jesus name I pray Amen.
Thank you for taking time to explain even more details. Your previous video was very clear. All that really matters is what you, your doctors and your family think! I'm praying for you to not have unbearable side effects and for these treatments to work amazingly well!
Thank you!
When I was getting a second opinions on my Stage 3A breast cancer treatment…ALL I ever heard from the MDs was how BIG and AGGRESSIVE my tumor was…with just all the bad stuff. ((I can’t remember the details bc it was so traumatizing)). It made me feel like -> I was to die. I went on a spending spree for the past 7 1/2 years and got myself into serious debt. Because: I THOUGHT I was going to die. And, figured my 401K would cover the costs. Here I am almost 8 years later and in bankruptcy…lol. My long winded point is: MDs are very smart but a lot of them don’t realize the power of their words. A lot of them need more training on how to talk to patients. Sending you a big hug!!! ❤
I think the unedited video last time did cause some confusion. Your commentary was more focused on the negative experience aspect, rather than the change in treatment decision. You are a powerful young woman, with a strong presence and you have conviction and opinions. This is going to be triggering to some people. You do you and live your life - you are on the right path for you and do not owe anyone explanations.
Thanks again Samantha for the update. You seriously never need to edit your videos again. Don’t bother. You come through loud and clear just speaking naturally, and your personality and your feelings give us a very complete picture of who you are and what you are experiencing. Lots of good information in this video. I learn so much from you. Not just about medical stuff but even how to march forward with your head held high into a scary future. You are wonderful!! I love how you stick up for yourself. You are helping some of us out here be stronger too. I tell myself, “if Samantha can do these things I will also be able to do them if the time comes”. You are one of my heroes, even if I know that it is the last thing you would wish to be. Sending you a huge hug through these screens and so proud of you. ❤
YOU HAVE BECOME A WORLD WIDE DOCTOR BY ACCIDENT. Congratulations. Love from Brighton. England . You are a very admirable person. Love a person who sticks up for what they feel is right. ❤
❤❤
Hi Samantha. I am sorry people made judgemental comments on your last video. Most people here have never had breast cancer or menopausal symptoms in their 20s. This is your journey and your life. I was worried for you when you stopped treatment but - look - now you have a daughter and brought a life into the world. You do strike me as someone who downplays things and I attribute that to having a fighting spirit and think it's just a coping tool for you. I pray you tolerate this treatment. Thank you for sharing your journey!
You have to be a strong person to be able to make these decisions for yourself. You are an amazing woman who is trying to navigate through this awful and unpredictable cancer journey. Thank you for sharing so much. These videos will undoubtedly help many other women in similar situations. ❤x
Xgeva is awesome! I’ve had BC with Bone Mets for almost 11 years. 5 years ago I needed both hip replaced. My hip surgeon had never done hip surgery on anyone with xgeva. The damage done from the cancer and radiation was there and I needed pins but the Dr said my other bones were like a teenager. I was 63 when I had the surgery! My hips are great!
I am still doing well! 11 years with Stage 4!!!
Negative people have no life. I completely understood what you were saying and agree with you 100%! I'm glad you stood your ground on your decision to keep your ovaries. Being unnaturally thrown into menopause IS NOT FUN! I'm living proof of that (and I'll be 55 in May). I've been living with ALL the nasty symptoms of menopause for over 15 years, and it gets worse EVERY year! Being a former cancer patient excludes me from hormone therapy! Your decisions are yours, so make the decisions you feel are best for YOU!
"Negative people have no life." 2 things. First, the people who were criticizing Samantha were criticizing her for being so negative. About the doctor, about hormone therapy, about her decisions. Being negative is a 2 way street. When experts in the field recommend something, your rejection of it based on a generally negative perception (based on doctors' personality, or reactions to drugs previously..... is simply childish. People here were undoubtedly screaming at Samantha on their computer screens, saying, "Jesus Christ, you brat! We are talking about life or death here. You are complaining that you wouldn't be able to be with your daughter fully if you were feeling bad ----- but you would be there. You would be talking to her, having her feel her mother's love, creating a memory of you loving her that she needs."
Samantha is an extremely demanding person. She wants things on HER terms, and will settle for nothing else. In a normal life situation that is admirable. In cancer? It is merely counterproductive.
Secondly, Assertiveness is not positivity. Samantha deludes herself in thinking she is stoic, and minimizes complaints. She is the least stoic person I can think of. She complains about keeping track of her medication as "annoying" in that she prefers not to think about herself ---- thus, in her mind at least, making her childishness sound self-sacrificing and noble. But it is not either of those things. To say "I find having to take drugs for cancer and then to have to take drugs because of the drugs.... annoying" will make people here dismiss you.
Samantha, you are talking about life and death. About surviving or dying. Using words like "annoying" to describe having to take medicines that will keep you alive longer, is INFURIATING!!!! Who cares about annoying? Man up, for god's sake. There are MILLIONS of people going thru this at the exact same time as you. Not all of them have access to the care you do. They would be suitably grateful.
Dear goodness @aliceschmid9697 you clearly have never had bad experiences with doctors because if you have then you would know that there are some doctors out there that do not care about their patients, they only care about themselves. I hope you never have to go through seeing a doctor that completely discredits you and makes you feel less than a human being. Also, that doctor was not even Samantha’s first doctor! She went to get a 4th or 5th opinion because she has seen SO MANY DIFFERENT ONCOLOGISTS to try to come up with the best treatment plan for her.
I’ll remind you that the first doctor she ever saw said she was overreacting about her lump and refused to give her anything that was not an antibiotic. Imagine if she did not advocate for herself after that.
Additionally, you saying she wants everything on her own terms is absolutely insane. She did not choose to have cancer, just has someone with asthma did not choose to have asthma. When being placed in a situation that changes your whole life, wouldn’t you want some type of say in the few choices you have???
I genuinely hope you learn to have even an ounce of empathy towards others.
You must be a very unhappy person. You wrote this very nasty rant here + again as a comment.
I'll respond to the comment but here I'll say that you need to ask yourself why you feel the need to be so nasty + critical to a young mother who is trying to cope the best she can dealing with the serious side effects of meds she MUST take + that impact her ability to be her best self for her year old daughter.
How can you criticise that?
Empathy is putting yourself in another's shoes + feeling + dealing with their problems.
I can very easily empathize with Samantha + her dilemma. It must be extremely hard.
Comments should be to support this young mom - that's what she needs.
@@aliceschmid9697wow. Just wow. You have issues.
Bottom line, her decisions are just that; HERS! No one is forcing you to watch her!
Honestly, screw anyone who thinks they have the right to criticize you or your decisions, it's you who lives it, not them... keep going girl 💪, you know what's best for you. I send you a lot of positive energy from Colombia ❤
I agree with your female doctor, chemo does create resistance and new mutations. Hormone therapy is the best option and priority, chemo can come later. I have a feeling this doctor seemed cold and unsensitive because she was probably upset when you told her you stopped your hormone therapy in the past. Praying for you , and sending positive thoughts. Your baby daughter needs her mom and she will have her❤🙏
You were clear in your last videos. And even if you did not listen to the doctor, it is your journey, your life and your body. You can get opinions and then make your own decision. It is so important to feel like your oncologist gets you and supports your choices. I changed my oncology center after I felt like I was not listened to and am so much happier having a smart, capable AND understanding doctor who cares what my priorities and thoughts are. People who are not on this journey might not understand how important being on the same page with our oncologist is.
I do rememeber and still do when I got Mayo Clinic in Rochester to do surgery on my heart when three other facilitites said it was not medically a good surgery. Mayo Clinic literally laughed and admitted me on the spot. "Go to your hotel room get your suitcases and check into the hospital in two hours." I cried then and am now writing it. Eight years later alive and kicking like a wild horse❤
I’m sorry others cannot handle YOUR decisions. It’s not their life. Everyone is not the same. You are a bright, intelligent young women who understands the alternatives. I have stage 4 met too bones. Back when the original diagnosis came and after my research, I chose no chemo or radiation. The statistics were 5 years with treatment. It’s been five years at least I was not sick and not participating with my family because of reactions. To me at my age which is almost 80 quality was my goal, still is. So unfortunately now I have malignant pleural effusion. With all that said, the choices were mine, not anyone else’s. Just as they are yours. You are young and have a wealth of knowledge. Lots of luck and lots of prayers.
I’m so glad that younger women are sharing their journeys! I don’t know if my experience will help but I was diagnosed Stage 4 ER/PR +, HER 2 low with bone met to left femur- three years ago. Ibrance, zoladex, letrozole, Zometa. Letrozole was HORRIBLE. About six months in, I switched to exemestane and it was a life changer. I also stopped Zometa a year ago (Claritin helped but I still hated it) and my latest Dexa shows normal bone mass so I’m hoping to just continue to monitor it. I’m still on my first line of treatment besides the change to exemestane. I’m hoping your AI change works well for you! ❤
You are absolutely amazing Samantha‼️ I am a breast cancer survivor of almost 5 years and I could not tolerate the side effects of hormone therapy and I tried three different options before I chose to stop treatment. You have exceptional clarity and awareness of your needs and goals for your treatment plan . Please never apologize for your choices …. You are an inspiring , intelligent young woman ‼️‼️
Hi Samantha! I think. you were very clear in the last video about the details but thank you for updating again. It's hard to make a large group of people (TH-cam audience) understand everything. Sending you so much love and best wishes. Be proud of yourself and your choices. Your life and your daughter are beautiful.
I know of somebody who just went to Cleveland Clinic and there is a lot of hope where there was none. They removed a tumor around his heart, and making no promises, this young man has real hope. You were wise to go there!
Your life, your family, don't worry what others say and think. They are making decisions for their own lives. You make yours. ❤
Hello Samantha, I just wanted you to know that I understood everything you said on your video before this one. I think you took the correct actions for the information you received. I can’t believe people say anything about your decisions. When I see you on the next video, I am just so glad to see you and hear about your progress and decisions. I wish I could see your baby girl, but I totally see that you want to protect her privacy. I have watched you since the first video, and I wish you the very best. Beverly
It’s crazy people would leave negative comments while you’re just explaining your experience!
I’m shocked that you had negative comments on your last video. Please don’t take any notice. The huge majority of people who watch these videos just want the best for you and your insight as a young woman going through this is invaluable. Thank you for continuing to provide updates despite any negativity, and don’t feel the need to downplay anything as your authenticity is hugely appreciated❤❤
Samantha please don’t let people’s opinions upset you. It’s your body and you need to feel good about the dr who is treating you. Remember Samantha mother’s intuition is something we all should listen to. Keep up the fight!
You’re spot on. There’s a reason Anastrozole is ok for you but not me when I had ovaries. I was told so long as I had ovaries, I couldn’t take the anastrozole so suffered thru Tamoxifen and was thrilled for my oophorectomy bcuz I have PCOS and it caused my breast cancer. So I threw those things out on in October and haven’t had any side effects from the Anastrozole. Cancer treatment truly is individualized. I send you huge hugs!
So glad you’re doing well!!
I just love and look forward to your updates. I’m also stage 4 with Mets to multiple bones. It’s nice hearing someone else going through such a similar story to mine.
Thank you! Hope you are doing well!
Thank God for Doctors and treatment options but as a Christian receive total healing from the Lord.
I’m pretty fed up with people and their opinions! You keep on doing you! I think you are very insightful, and explain eloquently what you’re going through. If people make different choices, those of us who have had cancer understand that there are many different paths to take at every step through treatment, and that it’s a very personal decision. I think people who have opinions and haven’t been through this should just back off. Even having gone through it, and having a different type of cancer, I would never ever question someone else’s personal choices. Your attitude is amazing. And your life is amazing and you are amazing so don’t listen to the haters ever ever ever! I always tune in to your videos because I love to hear how you explain things and how you’re living your life. I think you’re inspirational.
Samantha ignore people they are as I said ignorant. You are doing the right thing and what people say does not matter. It is about you, your body, your family, and taking in to consideration what the dr says. As a nurse I have to say this because listen to you not the dr the dr doesn't know you only the disease. Everyone responds differently
Samantha, you are such a stoic person. I don’t know anybody could think you are a complainer about your illness. I wish you would block all people who think they know more than you about your illness. You are such a calm, intelligent person you’re doing exactly right thing for your individual situation.
I think it’s easy for us to have opinions about other people’s treatment choices when we’re not in that position.
We should all try to remember that your treatment choices are what work for you and your family. It doesn’t matter what I think about it. It doesn’t matter if I assume I would have different preferences or priorities. This is your life. This is your journey. You didn’t get to choose whether or not you got cancer but you can absolutely choose your path forward and how you want to deal with it.
Prayers and well wishes go out to you dear Samantha. 33 years ago at 31 years old I was prescribed Lupron after ovarian surgery for endometriosis…horrible horrible side effects! I understand exactly what you mean when you say you just didn’t feel like yourself! Fast forward to 8 years ago with my first BC I refused to take the AI hormones as I was terrified of hormonal side effects again. This November I was diagnosed with a 2nd primary BC (not metastasis) in my other breast and this time my doctors are encouraging the AI hormonal treatment again and reluctantly I’m going to give it a chance. All any of us with cancer can do is take it one day at a time and make the best decisions we can at the time with the information we are given while taking into consideration our quality of life and our loved ones. 🙏🏻💗
Best of luck with your treatments. I hope they work perfectly and that you will never have to deal with cancer ever again!
You put your points forward clearly, and I believe you were being objective. We should never take what any doctor says without being discerning and checking that what they have said is backed up with solid evidence. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make once you have all the facts, which I believe is what you are doing. ❤
She's got to many doctors telling her what to do.
I am not a cancer patient but I follow your journey. Please don't explain yourself. In my opinion this is your chanel and you own experience's that matters. You have full right to express your negative emotions after bad doctor appointment, especially that you going through a lot now. You deserve nothing but tone's of love an support❤
Anastrozole was really harsh for me. I lasted 6 months because I didn't want to give up. I have 2 children. At the end, I had to switch because my bone pain was unbearable. I've been on examestane now for 3 years. Now and then I get a really bad episode of bone pain, but I'm not giving up. The longer I'm using it, the more I'm used to feeling like an 80 years old woman. It's not ideal but it is still life.
Please don’t let people’s negative opinions make your journey more difficult. You’re making decisions that are right for you and your beautiful family. ❤
Samantha, you came across beautifully in your last video. I understood exactly what you were saying and what you meant. I've had Crohn's Disease since I was 11 years old. I'm 46 years old now. There have been doctors that have rubbed me the wrong way, there have been doctors that have been downright rude to me, and there have been doctors that I have not agreed with a single thing that came out of their mouths. I was never afraid of advocating for myself, and that's exactly what you did with this particular doctor. There is absolutely nothing wrong with letting the medical team know what you want and how you feel. I applaud you!👏❤️
I love your updates, and you're in my daily prayers. Keep on kicking ass! You are a true warrior!❤️🙏
Sounds like a great plan. Also I, who don’t know you thought you were downplaying how you felt. I know you don’t want to complain, but I hope you will tell them when it’s bad, you never know when an added or different med will change it all up. You have always had a great attitude . Love on your baby girl, get that serotonin working in your favor! Please take care. Continued prayers, Samantha
Thank you 💕
I had stage 1 breast cancer. It was still in the breast. I remember so clearly that my head was spinning with all the decisions I had to make. I listened to the doctors, read lots and lots of information and made the best treatment decisions for me. I thank goodness nobody second guessed me. I would have made me crazy. You are very good at explaining your treatment thank you for sharing.
Samantha I really Adore you !!!!! 🤩
I Love Love your personality and manner especially ✨️ ... I wish I had your way !!!! I love how calm and low key and easygoing /mild .. you are (when I am a more anxious person internally etc )
I know it's not easy to announce what one is going to do in the face of cancer ! ... and you are the most gracious person 🙏🧡 but i want to support you in whatever you're deciding to do !! I want to support your courage in the way you will seek and take treatment .. your way ok.
your videos are perfectly perfectly clear sweets ✨️✨️✨️
there will always be increasing numbers of quibblers online and ppl who dissect things their way
you are perfectly clear to me
please rest assured I get you ... the smart ppl get you and please be bold and own whatever you want to do 🤩🤩 I love you for your way Samantha !!!!!!!!!! ✨️✨️
I have so so much love and admiration for you I can't tell ya !!
Your soul shines down here to new zealand Samantha 🌵🌵🌵 ✨️✨️✨️ sandy
Your videos are excellent and I love the time, energy, and effort to share and inform your viewership. You’re in active treatment and a mom AND responding to keyboard warriors. Bravo! You are an active participant in your treatment and THAT is something everyone should take note of.
I saw how incredibly hard it was for you to do the last video. Thank you beautiful! Hugs from the mile-high 🤗
Samantha you are a beautiful person I am from Portugal and I am a doctor ( not Oncologist) You explain things very well I don t understant how people can be so mean You are living your life and taking your decisions based on cientific evidence You deserved your baby Life is also about dreams And dare to achieve them I wish you all the best If I lived in your country I would do everyting to help
Thank you
You said everything perfectly! You made it clear that while you didn't care for this person or her bedside manor, you took away valuable information. People need to understand that you aren't going to jive with every care provider, but you can respect their options. Sending lots of good vibes your way! ❤❤❤
Vous êtes une belle personne, je vous souhaite le meilleur...❤
Hi Samantha,I wish u all the best now for the journey your on,be positive,strong,u will be ok girl,I'm going threw stage 4 breast cancer myself,and believe me love,u just find the strength to get on with treatments,I wish u so well, Bernice from cork Ireland
Great to see you, Samantha. Cruelty abounds in this world
However kindness by far outshines it. Great to see your SMILE beauty vibrancy.
I love your unedited videos and I'm sorry you got so much negative feedback from your last video. I thought you explained your experience with the other doctor very well. It's your life and it's only you who can decide your path through this terrible hand you have been dealt. You don't need to apologize to anyone for anything you say or do. Nobody should have to go through what you are dealing with and you are doing an amazing job making your way through this. 💗💗
I’ve been on Anastrazole for 1 year, 3 months. Though I know that timing exactly - ha! I haven’t had side effects. Sending a prayer to the universe that the same is true for you! ❤️
It's your life and you have to live it the way you want. I'm not sure why people are so judgemental. Every person is different. Stay confident. I can't imagine going through this again at such a young age. Hang tough. Thanks for sharing your story. It's such a personal thing to share.
Thank you
Not hating life on meds is a good plan😅 you got this girl! Praying for you❤❤❤
I think what you said was clear and made sense. you're a very articulate person and in my opinion you communicate very clearly. sending you best wishes, hope your treatment goes well
Your journey and experiences are yours alone and you owe no one an explanation! If anyone has negative commentary, unsolicited, that does not belong to you. That is on them. I appreciate your sharing with us and opening the process of what you are going through. Thank you, and you are in my heart along with your family. Much love to you.
Beautiful Samantha, following you for long time. Please stay strong and do not worry what others say. we are praying for you. I have stage 4 colon cancer too and I can relate what you are going through in life.
I don’t think people watched the entire video before they commented because it was very clear to me what you were trying to explain ❤
Sweetie, I truly feel sad you have to re explain yourself.
You are a warrior and your daughter is so blessed to have a mommy so strong fighting every day for her and yourself.
I truly think that until folks walk in your shoes, they will never understand.
While going through the fight of your life again, you are doing the best you can. I'm so proud of you. Our life doesn't come with a manual it's a day to day written story. Your pages are filled with love, strength, and hope. I am truly amazed with your grace in this journey. Sending you much love a grandma in Massachusetts ❤
Girl stop explaining yourself!! It’s your channel, your cancer, your treatment! Stop apologizing and worrying about what others think and worry about yourself and your health and your family! You’re a beautiful young woman and you don’t have to explain yourself! You are in my prayers please be well
Thinking of you tonight. Hope you're ok. X
I have recently been told that I under report my pain , also. I don't know what to compare it to. I don't want to whine about every ache or uncomfortable twinge. I am blessed that Zometa, Letrozole and Ibrance are working with few side effects! You are so real and honest, I love that!!! Fight like hell and we will never give up!!
Oh mercy hon!!! No no no! It’s not you, it’s them. You don’t owe anyone an explanation of your life and your choices! And you explained it all very well! Seriously! You are obviously a smart, careful, wise, thoughtful adult and perfectly capable of making the best choices for YOU. It makes me so sad that you feel the need to explain and over explain for their sake. 😢😢. Block the difficult people and move on. You have plenty of us who love you and are cheering and praying for you! You are a delight and I for one am grateful for you!❤❤
Hey Samantha. I think you definitely got your point across. Just because it might have been one of the best cancer treatment hospitals in the world, doesn’t mean you have to like your doctor. We always hope we like our doctors but it isn’t always so just like people we meet. We don’t like everyone we meet. My breast surgeon had zero personality but heck he knew his job so I trusted him implicitly. Wishing you well in your treatment Samantha and thankyou for sharing your very informative videos and being you. Following from New Zealand ❤️
I don't think people who don't have cancer understand the overwhelming choices you have to make for treatment. Its your body, you have to decide what to do in the long run. Yes you will have many doctors tell you many things, trust your gut.
I also have stage 4 MBC with mets to lung, ribs, spine, arm, and lymph. I'm almost 3 years of my cancerversary and doing well. I am also on Verzenio and Femara (Letrozole). They both have weird side effects. The Verzenio gives me diarrhea every couple weeks and makes me sooooooooooo tired. The Letrazole made my joints ache but then it stopped and all is much better with it now. I've had surgery to remove a big spinal tumor (successful) and radiation to arm and ribs which slowed the mets down. I feel pretty good and my only complaint is fatigue to the point where I sleep 7-8 hrs a night and have to nap at least once in the daytime. I'm retired so it's much easier and I have help with everything, too.
I'm praying for you to live a long life. MBC is much more treatable now and people are living years or even decades with good care and management. My suggestion to you is this: get plenty of rest and sleep. Eat a yogurt or two every day to help with the Verzenio diarrhea. Have some over the counter Immodium on hand JIC you have diarrhea. Take the Verzenio every 12 hours as it works best with a steady amount in your system. Polish your nails with nail strengthener because these drugs and the cancer can make finger and toenails brittle and easy to split. Do the fresh air and exercise as much as you can tolerate. Eat well and love that baby to pieces. Best of luck to you Samantha.
Friend ignore them trolls haters and bitter unkind unloving people. Live your life and thank you for sharing with us. It really really is a blessing. I watched your video a year or so ago. I know it sounds crazy but I feel dread I’m anxious and that’s not normally me. I thought I had colon cancer, I got a colonoscopy and it was perfect so I thought maybe a year ago I was paranoid for no reason. January I got a mammogram and they called me back for a sonogram. Now I have to do a breast biopsy and my back is hurting so bad. My mom had inflammatory breast cancer at my age. So fingers crossed all is clear next week from my biopsy but I feel uneasy
I understood what you meant, don’t put up with hater’s….BLOCK THEM!!! You know your body better than anyone. You have a HIGH tolerance to pain just try to write down your symptoms and that should help your Drs. help you more if any symptoms do pop up ❤ Thanks for sharing your experience!!!
Breast cancer survivor here and member of an all breast cancer survivor dragon boat team of 80 + women. These decisions on treatment are complex and individual. As a 60 something woman I was on arimedex for the length of time suggested for me, and yes side effects are real. I cannot imagine dealing with this as a young woman. I know women on our dragon boat team who changed meds or discontinued hormone blockers because of side effects. We also have a team member who had a beautiful baby. We have members who are long time survivors and others we have lost. In the end we take in the opinions of our medical teams and walk forward in whatever direction is right for us individually. Clearly you are doing exactly that! And may family, friends, and our community give us grace and support. Thanks for sharing your journey. Sending you warm thoughts and best wishes! ❤
I think what a lot of people who don't have cancer fail to grasp, is that it's not just trying to either beat or hold back the cancer, it's making sure life is still worth living while you're treating the cancer. So to some removing your ovaries no matter the side effects seems the obvious choice. But if the side effects mean the extra time granted you makes life unbearable, then is it really worth it? That is a personal choice that will be different for everyone.
Thank you for being so open about your journey. You are incredibly brave to share with us the way you do.
Samantha, I’ve watched you for several years. You have grown up and greeted the chapters of your life with: joy in the good and grace and courage in the difficult. The joy of you sharing your family and sweet little daughter are special and I am so happy for you to experience those moments that make life worth the living. You look great and sharing your thoughts on treatment plans I am certain will bless others. When life is tricky, it’s hard for others to cope and it comes out as unkindness often without even meaning to. Please don’t take it to heart, they’re just not there yet. Much love and prayers.
You have to do what is right for you, and if you are already fighting cancer, and then you have to deal with the emotional part that this hormone therapy brings with it. I can’t imagine what that would feel like and you have to do it right for you.💔💔🙏🏽🙏🏽
You're doing amazing. Thinking of yourself is a selfless act in terms of motherhood and especially dealing with a life altering illness. You're actually thinking of others when putting your needs first , because in helping yourself you're being present to be there for your family.
I'm also learning this. I am currently deciding on the chemo pill. I took would downplay symptoms and my oncologist told me to complain more as well. It sounds like you have an amazing support system , please continue to stay in the fight by any means you can , you're doing fantastic
Sending much love 💕 and support.
You're daughter is so blessed to have such a beautiful courageous warrior momma
Samantha, you are one smart cookie. It’s your life, make your own decisions. Best to you and your family. ❤
You are a very strong woman, go with your gut! Be your own advocate. I have followed you and you always amaze me with your strength to fight like a warrior, God Bless you and your family ✝️❤️
Hello Samantha, I know it’s hard and there are tough decisions to make in the process of treatment and everything but we are all here supporting you! For me and many people, probably yourself too, music really helps. I listen to Tom MacDonald - Cancer & Dakota Rhodes - Running Up That Hill just to name a few. Maybe in your next video you can tell us some of your favorite songs that lift up your spirits when you’re upset and feeling down 🤷🏼♂️ Just a suggestion. Anyway, keep your head up. When things look cloudy, there is always a silver lining. Never give up! Much love ❤️ 👐
Everytime I listen to your videos I get encouraged. Please continue to follow your gut.
Never apologize for how you feel…. It has to be overwhelming I give you credit for how objective and graceful you are
You are making the best choices for you, period!
Samantha, hopefully they prescribed you an anti-depressant to help with menopause symptoms. It's part of the menopause "cocktail." It might help ease your symptoms...Wishing you luck with your new treatment plan!
I was on antidepressants in my early thirties. The tradeoff is no pleasure in the marriage bed (for men and women).
I'm glad to hear you've got a care plan where you have some choices. It's been a heck of a week for me: whatever nasty virus I had for 3 weeks knocked my WBC down to 1.7. So I can't start Nerlynx or have reconstructive surgery until my white cells come back up. And my mother died yesterday. 😔
Sorry about your mom and all you are enduring. 🙏🏻
Thank you. I'm still grateful through it all. 🙏
Thank you so much for sharing ❤. I started Letrozole Mar 23 and had my ovaries out 7/23. Even though I was pretty sure chemo put me in early menopause (I am in my late 40’s), I was very nervous to start this journey. I was lucky to have access to a oncology naturopathic physician to work with me on managing side effects and it has worked very well! Muscle/joint stiffness and pain have been manageable with Claritin, tart cherry juice and high dose magnesium and calcium. Relizen helps with hot flashes. Reveree is great for vaginal drynesss. All this was cleared by the integrated medicine dept at my hospital. I also found Neurali med probiotic really helpful for regulating my mood. I had PMDD and a history of depression, so that was my biggest concern going in. I guess my hopeful point is, you don’t need to necessarily stop the hormone inhibitors if you experience side effects right away. There are safe and non-pharma options you can take along side to reduce side effects. Love and light and healing 🌟
Samantha I saw your last video and I found you very clear and I believe you went beyond making your point clear. I saw some of the comments and people are just mean and people think they know what is best for other people. I wish these people would put themselves in your place and try to understand how you are looking at this and also what works for some may not work for all and vice versa. If I do not like a doctor I may not dismiss what they say or just some of what they say and latch on to the good. But that does not mean you are not listening. People just should keep such things to themselves if they have nothing positive to say to you. It’s not like we know you personally and you share to help others not be criticized or whatever. It makes me mad how critical and judgmental people are. You are very sweet and positive and thanks for sharing because you could shut down anytime. Don’t question yourself or listen to those types of comments to the point you are concerned about what you say because you’ll be misunderstood. There will always be the negative ones just ignore them. Sending hugs and prayers! ❤
it came across clearly - don't worry, you explain it very well, I am german and I understood what you said
You explain things perfectly well, people just don't listen.
You've explained it all very well. I am on anastrozole and while I was quite worried about side effects, so far all is well. Hardly any problems at all. I am post-menopausal and the only thing that bothers me at all is the dreaded hot flashes. It just does not seem fair to have to go through them TWICE. My husband says try being the husband of a woman going through them twice! I had to laugh. But as I said, otherwise, it's OK. I hope the same for you.
Thank you, I’m glad it’s going well for you! Lol your poor husband. Feel bad for mine too because I’ll get them again soon enough haha
Sorry for that negative experience. Prayers and hugs 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
I totally get why the comments make you want to explain yourself, sometimes when I get negative comments I stew over them also and have responded. I hope that even though you didn’t need to clarify (because as the others have said, you were clear) they feel a bit less inclined to be judgmental. In the meantime I pray that your new treatment will work really well for as long as possible. Thanks for being on the internet! You’re the first cancer vlogger I started following years back and like so many people I stay tuned to new videos and wish you all the best.
I understood that you changed your entire treatment plan after you consulted with the doctor from the prestigious medical institution. I also understood that you didn’t appreciate her bedside manner. Wishing you ease of treatment and meaningful time with your daughter, husband & other important people in your life. ❤
Just because the top rates cancer centers are supposed to be so great, the doctor connection is the most important thing.
I’m so sorry how cruel people can be. I’ve considered just ending my life now instead of letting a disease kill me. You are so strong. I’ve been married to an abusive doctor for years. So I can say that not all doctors are correct or are the best doctor for you. You’ve got this and are one of the strongest person I know.
Much love from Kentucky Lesley and medical service dog Jake.
Your feelings are your feelings. Just because others say negative things it doesn’t negate your feelings. Only you know what you’re going through. Keep on being you!
You don't need to ever explain your feelings to anyone....I love and appreciate your videos and your honesty....it's your journey not theirs.❤
Thanks for sharing your journey with us! It must be so hard to make medical treatment decisions when so much is at stake….let alone then having to feel like you have to defend them on here. I’m so glad you have your daughter to give you the reason to fight with all you got to beat this cancer! By the way, your explanation of how Zometa works is exactly how I describe it to my patients!
Thank you! And oh good! It’s been a long time since it’s been described to me so I wasn’t sure if I remembered it right
Hey Samantha, I wanted to encourage you to consider increasing your exercise routine during your hormonal therapy for cancer treatment. While I know it's a challenging time, exercising has been shown to help reduce side effects and improve overall health and well-being. Take care and stay strong! xxx
It really depends on the side effects. Mine were horrible joint pain. Knees, hands and feet. My knees were so bad I wanted to cry every time I had to sit down or stand up. I couldn’t squat at all. I had to have help standing up. My hands woke me out of my sleep they hurt so bad. I was exercising regularly but I couldn’t do it at all during that time.
Thank you for sharing Samantha, you are helping others navigate and understand this miserable journey. Your a warrior. You are an inspiration to me. God bless you, and heal you.🙏🏻❤️
Doctors give you options, and you as the patient need to be your own advocate, and make the right decision for yourself. You are doing the right thing and those complaining didn't understand the video or just want to complain. Blessings and prayers!
Don't worry about what people on here think! You could be petting a puppy and people would be negative. You are amazing!! prayers!!
I understood the other video. On the other hand, it’s your choice what YOU decide what’s best for you. I will say you look fantastic. Bless you and your family.
The side effects can be so bad! About 3 months in to taking anastrozole and Lupron, I started getting horrible joint pain. My hands, feet and knees hurt so bad I could hardly stand it. My hands would wake me up at night. My knees hurt so bad I could barely sit and stand. The crazy thing is I ended up getting out on prednisone for a week for some pain o was having from surgery and ALL my pain went away! It’s been months now and the side effects haven’t returned! Woot woot! As my doctors said, they don’t want the treatment to be worse than the disease. Hang in there!
You truly have a mother's heart