12 weeks from treatment
Today I reach the goal of 12 weeks from treatment. I survived it! Now I have my appointment for an MRI, CT scan and bone density scan to hopefully tell me I am all clear. If nothing else it will be my baseline should I ever have a recurrence.
These weeks have been filled with so much: Fatigue - yep had that, occassionally still have it, thinking there are days when I will have it just to remind me not to get too cocky. Menopause - well hello :) I know I said bring it on, but the hot flushing is really annoying. As are these odd sensations of "ants crawling on skin". Looking forward to my next appointment when we can look at rebalancing the body. Aches and pains - here today, gone tomorrow. I know it all about the body healing, but somedays that little black monster creeps up and I wonder is this another lump forming. Exercise - OMG how uncoordinated am I now? I was a bit before but now its embarressing. I still ride my bike (stationary) and I was going to venture out to aqua aerobics but I have decided to do a Bootcamp DVD everyday for the next few weeks to get my coordination happening. I think its working. It certainly is showing me how much the chemo and rads and zapped my strength. Oh and "Man Hair" - I know I wanted my hair back, but seriously? I have man hair on my legs and arms and dare I say my jawline, but the head, eyebrows and lashes are taking forever...... I will be have words at my next appointment.
But importantly these 12 weeks have been filled with: Family - still lovingly supporting me all the time. From phone calls " just to check in" to doing the groceries "because I can". Friends - particularly the ladies I see every week who have been through the ringer too. They sustain me with their laughter and support. A holiday to WA - Fabulous! Will be going again! Planning another holiday. So many places I want to go. No time like the present. And of course my medical team. Still phoning to check on how I am feeling. Organising the next step in "the plan". There is a comforting feeling knowing there is a plan in place. And I shouldn't forget "The Internet" - Just a click away and there are a squillion people ready to assist with support and advice. At times it is just what I need.
Anyway onwards I go into the next 12 weeks. Time for throwing myself into Dragons Abreast. Considering return to work - no rush on that one. Re-enrolling to finish me degree (took last year off). Its all about setting up the new "normal" for me.
A final thought for this blog: If you read this and you are in Brisbane or on the Coast there is a chance I might pass you in the street or in the shopping centre. If you have a scarf, a wig, or a smattering of hair I will smile at you. I will silently shout "Go Girl, you can do this" and then I will walk on by. Remember you are never alone. And if you ever need a friend, there are alot of us out there ready and willing.