Life Changes

Tomorrow I turn 32… This time last year I was dreading turning 31. Oh how old. (Insert eye roll here). This year, I’m so thankful to be turning 32. I will no longer fret getting older. Instead, now I pray I get the privilege to grow old.

Cancer changes things. What it’s changed about me the most is that now I enjoy each minute of every day. I am be thankful that I’m here, healthy, and surviving . I pray every night and thank God that I’m alive. I thank Him each morning when I wake up.

I am happier than I’ve ever been. That may sound weird, but it’s true. Am I still scared my cancer could come back? Heck yes. I think about it every day. But I don’t let it steal my joy.

Tomorrow I will be going in for my 9th treatment of radiation. I am completely in love with my radiation team. They make me laugh which I think is truly the best medicine there is. So far I’ve not had any side effects. I will have a total of 25 treatments, with my last day being December 20th.

I also have a meeting with my oncologist next week. These will be the ones I dread. Every 3 months for 2 years I will meet with her and have my blood drawn to make sure the cancer hasn’t metastasized. These days won’t be fun. But again, I refuse to let it steal my joy.

I can’t wait to ring in this new year. 2018 has been a doozy, but it’s taught me so much. I’m so thankful for where I am today.

Now for the q&a part…

Have you experienced lymphedema?

No I have not…yet. I am at an increased risk because of having my Axillary lymph nodes removed. Because of this I meet with my therapist once a week during radiation to give me a lymph massage to teach the fluid in my arm to go to other lymph nodes in my body such as my back, stomach, or other side of my chest. So far, so good.

Any advice for someone just finding out they have cancer?

Breathe. Take time to decide your treatment options. Get a second opinion regarding treatment so you can feel good about your choices. Take it day by day. And most importantly, pray. Meditate. Hug someone. You have a long journey in front of you but you will be amazed at how fast it goes. 💜

When will you show us your hair growth?

I just posted it on my instastory. It’s a hot mess right now. No idea how to style it right now haha! I go to see my friend in a few weeks to have her cut and color it for me! So stay tuned. 😬

That’s about it! The rest I answered above I believe!

Hope y’all are having a great holiday season!

Until next time…