Saturday, February 8, 2014

Happy Cancer Day...

...at least that's what Ella has been calling it as she has been singing "Happy Cancer Day to you..." to the tune of Happy Birthday all day.


We're not sure what to do with this day to be honest.  One year ago today I got the phone call.  One year ago today I felt my world fall apart.  One year ago today I felt as though I would fall apart.  One year ago today God said, "I've got this." One year ago today God caught me in the scariest trust fall I've ever made.  One year ago today started me on a journey that I didn't ask for, but if given the chance to do it over, without hesitation I would.  In a heartbeat.  And I wouldn't change a thing.  Well, except for those 4 drains I had to live with after surgery. Those were gross.  But other than that, as I look back on this year, I am filled with joy.  It's been a physically painful, exhausting, overwhelming and at times, lonely year.  I feel as though I have learned so much and gained so much that it's all been worth it. 


At this one year mark, I'm still not done.  I never would have guessed that one year later and I'd still be in treatment.  I have five Herceptin (chemo) treatments left.  Four after Monday.  I'll do the math for you.  I'll be done in June!  We have a tentative surgery date set for reconstruction in May.  After that it will be waiting for the okay to take the port out.  Oh, what a happy day that will be!


Life is as back to normal as I think it will ever be. Herceptin has very minimal side effects compared to the other chemo drugs.  My energy is s l o w l y returning.  I'm very out of shape, but it will take some time to get my stamina built back up. 


I stopped wearing my wig just after Christmas.  My hair is growing back in darker than it has ever been, but just as straight.  I'm amused by the people that wonder why I got such a drastic haircut in the middle of a frigid winter. 


I'll do my best to get another post up sooner rather than later.  I have so many cool updates to share, but after a long day with Ella, I'm tired.  I didn't want the day to pass without acknowledging it.  As always, thank you for your continued prayers. You have been beyond what I could have asked for or imagined.  I am so grateful that I have not had to do this on my own.  The end is in sight and I am determined to finish strong. God's still got this!