TOBY’s Story

Site created on December 28, 2020

Hello Friends and Family,


I am writing to inform you about and invite you to my journey of healing. I have been diagnosed with Basal Like Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) (an aggressive form of BC). I have a tumor in my right breast with no lymph node involvement and I am negative for the BRCA gene (that’s a plus). I am completing the preparation for chemotherapy which will start on January 7, 2020. Chemotherapy is happening first to reduce to size of the tumor (4x3x2 cm), and to make it disappear!!! There will be an infusion of Taxol once a week for three months, a 3-D ultrasound to check for shrinkage after the fourth treatment. If it has shrunk, we continue with just the Taxol, if not, we add carboplatin for the remainder of the three months.

Michele Driggs will co-manage this site with me. She is the captain of my team to assist with coordinating my nutritional, physical, emotional and spiritual care. I have shed many habits that were not “life giving” and I feel better for it. Yes, I still have much work to do. : ) Thank you to those who have assisted me and offered assistance already. My needs will be unfolding as we go, and this site is a place where I can ask for help.

This is certainly rockin’ my world and at its best has reminded me of the wonderful friendships and family I cherish. So “Think Shrink”! Your thoughts and prayers and my practice will sustain me, and be critical to my healing. I have no doubt. I am going into this journey feeling strong and healthy and I plan to kick some BC butt! 

I love you all, TB

Newest Update

June 27, 2022

Journal entry by TOBY BODEEN —

In this update entry I want to express my gratitude for everyone who supported me on my breast cancer journey that began in December 2020. In hindsight, infused chemo was the hardest physical and mental part of the journey. You were right there giving me hope and strength when I needed it the most. 

I had a clear CT scan on 02.23.22 and completed my oral chemo on 03.27.22. The oral chemo was gentle. To celebrate, I flew to Tucson with Cousin Jeff from SF to visit my brother, Stan. We had a great time exploring Tucson, Bisbee and Sierra Vista. This adventure brought me back to hiking and enjoying the Southwest. Then in May, Kristie, Michele, Shad and I paddled the Elkhorn Slough near Moss Landing. It is an area teaming with sea otters, birds, sea lions, seals, jellyfish, and more. I will forever continue to work on my endurance and strength. 

My first check up with a mammogram or an ultrasound will be on 07.12.22 and every three months for a while with the frequency decreasing as clear results appear. 

I wish everyone a glorious summer.  I am well! 

With love, TB

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