Friday, July 10, 2009

It's Hump Day today

Yup, it's "hump" day. I know, today is Friday and usually we refer to Wed as "hump" day. But it's my middle point of radiation treatment. I've gone 18 times and I have 17 more treatments before I can say adios to the Cancer Center.
My skin is holding up very well, partly because I'm being very diligent in the care and the product I'm using is excellent, Aquaphor. What's starting to happen now is my mobility is starting to slide backwards. After the surgery I had been working on the stretching exercises and was thrilled when both arms went up the same distance. Things were great, I had terrific mobility in my right arm and shoulder. Now it's not so good. The radiation causes a new round of swelling, which in turn, affects the nerves and muscles and it's a bit frustrating to be sliding backwards. I'm starting to feel the fatigue, I really could use a nap in the afternoon. I struggle to get past 5:00 p.m. Miss Molly and Anna Banana need fed and walked and that is what keeps me going and I get past the "I just want to sleep" feeling.
The other side effect is my ability to sleep through the night. Every time I roll over in the night, I am awakened by the soreness. I hesistate to use the word 'pain' as it's not that bad. I'm starting to feel the tenderness in my side along my ribcage and in my shoulder. It is whas it is, I am thinking it will get worse before it gets better, and I just have to work through things. Once the treatment stops my body will start to work on the healing process and I have confidence that I shall return to my "new normal" in August. Then I get to deal with a whole new round of issues. But until then.......I keep doing what I'm doing!
The sun is shining this weekend, I see a walk along the ocean and some time spent on a farm!
Sharon

4 comments:

  1. Your positive outlook is inspiring! It makes me kick myself in the butt for complaining about anything in my ordinary day to day life. I hope your treatments go by fast and you are on your way to complete health!

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  2. Sharon you have had such a positive attitude through this; even though I know some days have been really hard. I truly admire you strength and determination. Enjoy the sunshine and we'll talk soon,
    Judy (JLP)

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  3. Sharon you have had such a positive attitude through this; even though I know some days have been really hard. I truly admire you strength and determination. Enjoy the sunshine and we'll talk soon,
    Judy (JLP)

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  4. Sharon,

    Thanks for commenting on my Wordless Wednesday post last week. In a little less than 5 weeks I will set out on a 60 mile journey as I participate in the Breast Cancer 3Day. I will be thinking of you as I walk. I hope the discomfort and decreased mobility you are experiencing will dissipate quickly.

    Blessings,
    Gloria

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