After the difficult three weeks before yesterdays chemotherapy with more drugs, some lovely sedatives and some really strong antibiotics I can safely say I was more than a little anxious about this fourth chemotherapy treatment. It seems to have gone well. I feel less nauseous, but rather more tired and weepy, something else I have to get used to and work through I guess. Let’s hope the following few weeks and the last two treatments are an improvement on the first three chemotherapy sessions.
As I have gone through this process and when I am less stressed and traumatised, thanks to the sedative effect of some of the drugs – just wish it could be champagne rather than heavy duty knock-out drops – I felt calmer about the visit. As a result I have actually been giving some thoughts to my life post cancer, hopefully, and post cancer treatment. I know it will be an organic and slow process as I emerge for this rather grim experience and difficult time in my life. I did make a list and noticed that I was still rather too far down the list somewhat, so I put myself first and, therefore, I will get myself fit and strong, more active and give myself plenty of time to do this. I know I will get back to teaching as I love it and feel I could cope well with this when I get my confidence back. This teaching may include some work with breast cancer patients and maybe even with the breast cancer team at the hospital. And Jacqui you might be please to hear that I might even get to writing at some point too.
Once again I have to thank you for thinking about me and taking time to text, email and send cards, they really are appreciated. They really do help, thank you. Congratulations to Sheila on completing her 10km walk with little physical affects. Good luck to Chrissie as she is doing the Race for Life this weekend.
Hilary will probably be letting you know too, but there is a fashion show at the Mandolay Hotel, Guildford on Friday September 16th to help raise money for The Fountain Centre at St Lukes. It is a charity set up to support patients and their families through their cancer treatment. It can help with the physical effects of chemotherapy, the psychological effects and traumas of cancer and can provide information regarding any financial help that may be available. They do lots of other things too and have been a great support to Ian and me. When I get more information I will let Hilary know and if you are interested in tickets for a fabulous evening just let us know. As an aside, I will be doing the catwalk, after having probably my first drink after I finish chemotherapy and without hair!!!
Thank you again for all your support. It makes me very humble and grateful I know such lovely people. You are truly helping me through this.
Love Helen x