Adjusting to a “New Normal”
Wednesday was perfect. The whole thing was orchestrated beautifully. Walking down the hall towards my family with the nurses, doctors, and other staff lining the halls clapping and sending good wishes was more than I could have imagined. Seeing my family standing at the end of the hall waiting for me was almost more than I could bear. It was such a surreal moment to ring the bell and say goodbye to all the people that I grew close to. I considered all the staff family by the end because they were there cheering me on from day one. Their kindness and support were everything I needed to make it through. It’s blissful to be saying goodbye to one journey and welcoming the next journey with open arms. I’ll miss everyone I got to know, but I would much rather see them as a visitor than a patient.
The next goal is to have the Pet scan be clear. I am optimistic that I will be cancer free and be able to say that I beat this. My oncologist is also very optimistic that we have gotten through the hardest parts. Obviously, I’ll keep you all updated but it’s going to be a month long wait so you’ll have to deal with me rambling about other stuff in the meantime.
When I got diagnosed, I knew that I would want to do something to make an impact. Yes, people get diagnosed with cancer all the time, but I’m the type of person that takes each experience and tries to make it life changing. One thing I liked while going through my treatments was getting goody bags from other survivors. They would leave sweet notes and words of encouragement as well as activities to keep us busy. There were activity books, coloring books, journals, candies, lotions, lip balm, etc.. I plan to make some and donate them because they were helpful in keeping my mind off the bad aspects and just improved my mood overall. I’d love to spread that joy and kindness to other people to help them get through the bad days.
I’m also going to make some thank you baskets for the staff so they can know how appreciated they are. They give their all every day to their patients. The patients can tell that they are a priority and that the nurses, doctors, and other support staff are doing this job because they enjoy it, not just for a paycheck. I don’t know where to start with what to put in the baskets. Any input on what you would put in them is appreciated.
I was invited to go to a survivor’s day in June that I plan to go to. It will be nice to meet others who have gone through what I have. Going through cancer treatments can be very lonely and isolating if you do not directly know someone who has been going through something similar. I was lucky that my older sister went through a cancer diagnosis, radiation treatments, and surgeries so she became one of my biggest supporters. I leaned on her especially on bad days because she knows the fear, intrusive thoughts, and hardship of fighting every day. I was also lucky that my family gathered around me to be there and help as much as they could.
I know hearing about my cancer journey can get annoying. You’re probably thinking, “can we talk about something else now?” The answer is yes, but cancer is a part of my story now. If I can help anyone feel less alone by sharing my story, then I’ll do it. This blog is my diary of my life. The good, bad, struggles, victories, etc. I am so excited to be able to document everything and share it with you all. I am thankful for each and every one of you who takes the time to read my blog and send your positive words of encouragement and support. This summer will be full of stories of the next part of my journey. Of healing my mind and body as well as healing and repairing my relationship with my children and husband. I’ve already planned so many fun things for my kids to spend quality time this summer. While we don’t plan on going on vacation or filling our schedule with activities and outings, I have found some fun activities to do together as well as fun foods to try and make. I look forward to sharing it all with you. I’m sure we’ll have some funny fails along the way, but it will be fun either way.
I’ve spent the last few days figuring out my goals for the rest of the year. Staying healthy is number one on the list, but I also had so many big plans that I planned to execute this year and those I will be working towards. I’m in no rush to accomplish everything. But, life is short, and I refuse to allow more time to pass by without working towards my goals. This summer and the rest of the year will be about slow living and doing what makes me happy. Big changes are coming and I’m here for it.
This summer I’m also looking forward to family BBQ’s, brunches, family celebrations, and baseball. I have spent this year isolated to keep me safe and healthy. Honestly, I’m a homebody and introvert. The biggest anti-social person you’ll meet. You’d think that being made to stay home would be a dream. It would be if I chose it. There’s a big difference between choosing to be home and having to be home. We’re not rushing anything, but I am looking forward to being around people. My oncologist feels that within the next month, I should be safe to be around people. We’ll be closely monitoring my bloodwork along the way, but he feels that the nice weather should help prevent the spread of illnesses. I won’t be rushing to be around sick people any time soon. Masks shall be worn for preventative measures for a little bit longer.
Overall, I just have so much excitement for the future and can’t wait to test and try everything and take you all with me! Here’s to a long healthy future!
