First things first, I am almost 5 years cancer free! In addition to the yearly things, like birthdays and Valentine's day, we'll be celebrating my 5 year mark in February! I recently saw my Radiation Oncologist and she released me from her care and told me that with Triple Negative breast cancer, once you hit the 5 year mark you're actually less likely to have a recurrence than with other types of breast cancer. However, I am NOT letting my guard down! I see my Surgeon and Oncologist every 6 months and then I see my OB/GYN once a year, my dermatologist twice a year (because I had a melanoma) and every time I get a strange pain I get it checked so it's not like I'm not seeing doctors regularly!
Here is your gentle reminder to get your checkups and if you're having a weird pain that won't go away, make an appointment to get it checked out. Early detection is so very important. Even better, finding out it's not something bad will help you live a better life! Think about the stress that you are adding by constantly wondering and worrying. Take someone with you to the doctor if you're scared. Call me and I'll encourage you. A lot of us are at the age where doctors recommend screenings - they do this for a reason! Ok, rant over :)
I'm switching up the purpose of this page a little. I will continue to provide updates but I also want to share ventures that I'm a part of. Business ventures, cancer ventures, life ventures, adventures!
Oh, by the way, when I was released from my Radiation Oncologists care I had this wave of emotion that I didn't expect. When I called Bobby to tell him, I could barely get the words out. Tears are something cancer
has given me. I wasn't much of a crier, I'm still not a full-on crier, but tears come much easier and it's the weirdest thing for me. Have you developed any new "habits" due to life experiences?
I learned how to push away negative self talk faster and more consistently since undergoing treatment. My radiation treatments required that I be fitted with a molded mask that was snapped down to the radiation table over my head and neck. So for 14 minutes every day for 7 weeks I had to find my “happy place”! I learned to think happy thoughts and count my blessings. It was a gift because I had always been a half glass empty girl, ready to see the negativity in life. Thanks for reminding me that cancer has truly given me more than it’s taken away.
ReplyDeleteI too am entering my golden 5th year cancer free this January. May we both have a healthy and happy 2019! ��
Wow - I'd say that's great news and some great reminders. Love, Tracey
ReplyDelete