Stress
“When you find yourself stressed, ask yourself one question: Will this matter in 5 years from now? If yes, then do something about the situation. If no, then let it go.” Catherine Pulsifer
This past month, has me recalling my introduction to my cancer journey and this past week marks the start of my “official” breast cancer journey with my surgery on the 1st of September 2020. Just over four years ago, which not only changed my life, but that of my family. Next year, I am hoping to get the five year – clean bill of health. However, I am very happy to advise that my Oncologist has officially sacked me some three months ago and that feels wonderful!
I found the diaries that I kept from the night prior to my surgery until the end of treatment and whilst I have not read all of them, I have read parts. I do recall; however, the hardest part was advising family and friends of the news prior to surgery. My notes also confirm this.
I also did a little timeline, to highlight some of the symptoms and oddities that I experienced in the month leading up to the diagnosis. Some of which was positive and others that wasn’t, including some of the incidents from health professionals along the way. Not everyone was a pleasant experience and not all health professionals are professional to say the least.
It is always interesting sitting in the opposite chair to what you are used to. This was reflected to me from a lawyer recently, as a victim of a crime. Looking at the notes, I was running into a lot of people that I knew whilst at the hospital or having treatment at home. Parents of children from when my kids were at primary school and even former clients. And this was during our COVID lockdowns and when we had police and/or Army personnel on both sides of the river.
Three weeks post operation and I have written that I am choosing not to be a victim of cancer, however I also note that the support is overwhelming (and wonderful), however I still tear up with the love given. One of the books that I was reading “You are a badass” by Jen Sincero I wrote in my journal.
“6. Side step the spiral….Feel sad, but don’t blow it up into some huge drama. If something negative happens in your life, feel it, learn from it, let it go and get back to focusing on the life you’re excited to live.”
Brilliant advice – passion trumps fear.
I had my first appointment with the Oncologist on the 18th of September and the plan was drawn up when tests completed and availability of chair at the unit.
Like a said earlier, very happy to be sacked by him prior to the four-year mark.