Wednesday, August 26, 2015

First Tattoos


Today I had my scan for my radiation plan. Super nice technicians and nurses and the    Doctor is amazing too.  As I was positioned on the scanning table, I kept wondering when they would administer the tattoos, how many will there be, and most of all, will they be very noticeable? Well I really didn't have so much to worry about as they are very small skin pricks, and pink! She used a black light to give a visual check so I'll have to find a low cut top and a black light dance floor to really show off my new tats!  So in other words all that energy wondering about if it would hurt, etc was unwarranted.
I have begun my radiation treatments last Monday, which puts me finishing about the first week of October. For that I am very excited as it will mark the end of another chapter in this old breast cancer story!

Saturday, August 8, 2015

Moving Forward

Moving forward
Ever think about how that statement can mean so much? In some ways it reflects the mere passing of time. Sometimes it means getting through another day, and occasionally it means taking giant leaps into the unknown.
As I continue in my journey, my year or so in a fight against breast cancer, I am propelled into another of the 'unknown' category. I will begin the radiation therapy process next week. In many ways the next 7weeks seem overwhelming, and in other ways, they seem like not much time at all, compared to my last 7 months undergoing the oh so inconvenient 'chemo' treatments. It is hard to imagine my body having gone through so much already. The next part is hardly even daunting.
 I have adopted eating a yeast free diet, and am again walking 2 miles a day, plus any other exercise form I can add to that base. Going back into the office to work this past week was a big change to my routine, but was one of the key ingredients to getting my motivation back, too. I guess it is one leap towards returning to my former self, though that has changed too, it seems. I need to think a bit more about who I want to become, as so many things have changed from that person I used to be. I hope to keep the cancer from coming back, so if that means eating differently and exercising more, then that's what I'll embrace!
The exciting things that have been happening are worth the efforts. I have been losing a few pounds and keeping them off, and the exercise has given me more energy too, of course.
My hair is starting to come back which is great news. I think so far it will be a lovely platinum color, which may or may not stay, though I kinda hope it does. I'd rather skip the former mostly grey coloring, but am happy with whatever I get! I  have enjoyed my time not having to shave my legs, but actually look forward to having my eyebrows back some day! Who knew it was so hard to draw those on every day, and get them even, in an attempt to create a Look.
I have lately been wearing my short haircut wig and find that it is pretty comfortable, keeping me warm in all the office air conditioning- who knew! It takes me very little time in the mornings to whip through the shower, dress and pop my hair on, so it is a bit attractive to keep with that routine, even as my hair slowly returns. I miss my pony tail, but feel like at 53 I can perhaps stick with a shorter hairdo, and pamper myself with regular salon visits in the future. I have seen some pretty stylish hairdos while I wait for my turn to get a cut, and it won't be more than a few more months, till I can style something again.
Time seems to be moving quickly with all that keeps me busy, and I understand how folks older than me say they are amazed at how the years go by quickly. I attribute that to the many wonderful and interesting things that are filling my days, and how just having my family and friends actively involved, I have so many cherished moments. Thanks to all of you for following along with me while I wait for my next adventures!
If you have a chance, add a line or two in response to let me know how your time is passing, and what makes a special moment for you!  Enjoy today!