Don’t let the smile fool you — I’ve got what it takes, but chemotherapy certainly takes just about everything I’ve got. Today marks my 112th round of chemotherapy and my 3rd with CTCA. In this photo I am sporting this trendy fanny pack filled with chemo, which runs continuously for an additional 46 hours, not including the 7 hours of chemo that was administered in the clinic today. My medical team is titrating all of the various forms of chemotherapy that I’ve been on throughout the last five years —in other words I’m getting the whole kit and caboodle and will eventually be on all of them simultaneously (yayyy can’t wait..said no one ever.) ———
Side effects are in full swing as far as fatigue, aches, nausea and a sprinkle of anxiety/depression. Recently I began seeing an acupuncturist and chiropractor at CTCA in an effort to tackle pain management from all angles. Yet, currently I am dealing with Hydronephrosis. Namely, my kidney is swollen and yet again under a great deal of distress. The stent placed a few months ago is no longer effective and I will most likely have a procedure next week to replace it. I’d be lying if I said it isn’t taking every fiber of my being not to say f*ck it and stay in bed all day. Yet, I realize I am putting my body, mind and soul through the wringer so I may have the privilege to LIVE and have a life that is meaningful and worth the grueling fight. The pain is a humbling reminder of the things I’ve overcome, fears that I have looked in the face and challenges I have won. ———
Most importantly I’ve learned not to forget to say my “I love you’s”— if you love someone albeit a friend, family member, partner...tell them, show them. In the end of it all the people in your life are most important — not your looks or what you have. I’ll end this ridiculously long novella by saying, I love you and thank you for sticking around, even when the pain of seeing a loved one suffering can feel overwhelming. Happy Holidays to you and yours, wishing you love, happiness and of course health. 💙 #n2y #coloncancer #colorectalcancer #colorectalcancerawareness #cancerjourney #survivor #livemoore #cancer #fuckcancer #chemo #chemotherapy #oncology
