In two days I will be celebrating my second anniversary of my final treatment for Triple Negative Breast Cancer.
Let me be clear: I'm so grateful to be alive. I praise God for this life He has given me!
I did imagine life would be different on this day...I thought I would be myself...healthy enough to
walk four miles a day with my Mia,
keep up my weekly 2 hour round trip drives to see my parents,
clean my own house,
run with my grandchildren, blog....you know?
Healthy enough to live life.
But as cancer survivors we spend some of our "aftermath" of treatment learning and accepting our new bodies:
scarred, burned from radiation, weaker and immune compromised.
In the last six weeks I have had the flu, two colds, two sinus infections and terrible fatigue.
Yes, I've rested and done all the doctors suggest. But I have a life to live.
I can't be sick on days I'm observing my student teachers...they count on me to be there. And I am. Even if afterwards I come home and sleep for a few hours. They bring me such joy as I watch them grow and develop! But, that's a whole other post.
I'll be seeing an ENT next month and I'm working on building up my immune system.
Another after effect of chemo is chemo brain - forgetfulness. One doctor told me, "There's no such thing, the chemicals are out of your system." I beg to differ.
Please understand, I'm so happy to be alive, but I also long to live.
I know a few of you out there are also survivors or know a survivor. Maybe you can share your stories and/or your thoughts in the comments?
For now, I listen to Even If by Kutless and know that He has a plan...I'll trust His plan over my own.
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Another Finish
Guess what! I finished the potholders that go with these tea towels!
My favorite from this set is
"El gran amor"
(The Great Love)!
Isn't the ballerina
so cute in these?
It feels good to get some projects out of the way!
Take a look at these fabulous link ups!
You make my day with your comments!
I love reading and responding to them!
You know there are times when all we can do is put one foot in front of the other. Keep walking, sister! Your new normal may not be the same as before, but it appears you are determined to be the best you can be.
ReplyDeleteMy sister is a breast cancer survivor, and we are blessed for her cure. Same for you.
Thank you! I've been pondering your words since I rad them yesterday. Today's new post helped me find my peace and sunshine again. My family's support and gratitude that I am still even alive is a blessing! Hugs to you and your sister! :)
DeleteCongratulations on reaching your two-year mark! Yay!
ReplyDeleteThank you for celebrating with me!
DeleteMiaismine, I am an 11 year survivor. I remember the days of chemo brain (which I believe is real) and the contant fatigue. With four chilren to raise, I too wondered how to get through it. But cancer does change you, it makes you stronger. You will find the strength with the Lord's help, and though you will have both good and bad days, slowly the good ones will far outweigh the bad. Take time to rest and take care of yourself. I now exercise regularly and see my scars as evidence of the successful battle I fought. My prayers are with you. -Cindy
ReplyDeleteOh, Cindy! Thank you so much for your encouragement! Literally, as I was writing today's new post, I found my peace again. You're so right - in everything you said! Thank you! Hugs to you and your loved ones! Your precious babies are blessed to have you as their mama!
DeleteIt is wonderful to read your story. Jeremiah 29, 11 is one of my favorit verses.
ReplyDeleteHello Birthe! Thank you for reading my blog and for your encouraging words! We have a love for Jeremiah 29:11 in common! Take good care!
ReplyDeleteMiaismine - This will be my fourth year cancer free. I agree with you that there is a chemo fog that lasts much longer than the treatment time. I had body changes from the chemo that lasted till recently. And I know my brain is not as sharp as it was before. Of course, for me, I am not as young either. :-)
ReplyDeleteBut God is so good. He helps us live abundantly in His terms, if not earthly/worldly terms. Be blessed!
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DeleteCongratulations on your fourth year cancer free! Thank you for your encouragement! Yes, He does indeed help us - I'm so grateful that He has given me a patient husband! I'm so glad you stopped by to offer such words of encouragement! Thank you!
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