Taking Advice

A long-time friend was also diagnosed with breast cancer just a short time before me.  Linda is currently undergoing radiation treatments half way around the world in New Zealand. We’ve been communicating online about our experiences, feelings, treatment regimen and the like. This weekend she shared some realizations that have helped her. It was one of those “aha” moments for me.

“. . . . I was PO’ed because this cancer situation altered what I was doing in my life as well as what I ‘wanted’ to be doing . . . .  I needed to look closer at my current surroundings and note others had it far worse than I did. But my BIGGEST problem is/was . . . .  I cannot stand it when someone or something gets in my way of what “I” want to do and cancer was standing right in my way of life….. and there was nothing I could do except alter my norm. . . . “

So, there you go.  Those of you who know me understand how hard it is to accept this new norm on a daily basis.   I do accept it in the big picture but it doesn’t stop me from struggling and wrestling with the day to day details.   Despite some minor discomfort at times I still feel and look 100% heathy. I have had lots and lots of bloodwork done in addition to an echocardiogram, all results are great.  It is reassuring to know I’m starting from the best possible place as far as my condition goes. It is unsettling to know that the assault on my body to get rid of this cancer for good starts tomorrow.