Emotionally, I am relatively content as a result of anti depressants, a great psychotherapist who specializes in PTSD & medical marijuana. I have changed my diet & am doing my best to adhere to the Mediterranean diet. I have been actively engaged in exercise classes (virtually) for the past 2 years & continue doing same today. In addition, I have planted & am growing food for our local Foodshelf who have been so helpful to me on the past.

Since my diagnosis, everything has changed in my life... my career, my health status, my relationships with friends some of whom have stuck it out with me & others who have "ghosted" me. My family however, are living in the same town as I do which is new since my diagnosis. They have been a tremendous support & both my sons are now married & a grandchild is on the way.

Being closer in proximity to my sons & their families & my health.

I still struggle with low self esteem/worth as well as some residual cognitive challenges which are part of my disability. I am financially challenged as well.

Good question.... I think its the fact that the cancer can return at any time or take on another form... trying to maintain my health and being proactive is a daily requirement for me even if I don't feel like it.

My therapist has been an invaluable support person as well as my family & the friends who have stuck by my side. I am also a gardener so I tend to be in the garden in order to re-group.

For the 1st time in my life, I don't have long term goals. Cancer has shown me that living in the moment is what I need to do more of, which has itself been a challenge. I am a planner by nature & learning how to create down time for myself goes against everything I know. I'm trying though!

I have started my own business which I put in many more hours than needed. I dedicate myself to working from 11:30 am - 3:30pm although am adaptable to clients needs.

Again, everything. I have learned to recognize how "toxic" previous my workplaces were & to re-create for myself, a career/job that leaves me feeling proud of my work at the end of a work day. My challenge is being patient mostly with myself & to accept that trying to be perfect does not have a place in my world anymore.

My drive to connect & to be support for others.

Be gentle with yourself & take the time to really re-examine your priorities. If you need to take a nap, do it... I guarantee you'll feel better afterwards. Know that this too shall pass & that you are doing the very best you can during a crazy period of your life.
Another cancer patient told me, "Rather than trying to fight cancer, try learning to surf the waves that dip & swell... go with the current, not against"

I was fortunate in not having horrible side effects but I did use medical marijuana to help especially with the nausea, bone pain & difficulty sleeping.

I am here for you, really here for you.