And That's a Wrap!

 After 6 months and 10 days, 8 rounds of chemotherapy and 30 radiation sessions, I am very happy to report that the active treatment phase of my recovery plan has concluded!  My final radiation session was today.  I will continue to "cook" for the next couple of weeks, and my skin to continue to burn and blister.  The related fatigue will also get worse before it gets better.  I have a couple of pretty bad radiation burns on my neck, one under my arm and another under my breast. They are rather uncomfortable, akin to a severe second degree burn, and they hurt on the skin surface and on the inside. Doesn't matter, though - I am FINALLY done!

While this doesn't hold true for everyone, for me I can say that the cure is worse than the disease.  I did not feel sick at all - only a little bit tired - when I discovered Toby.  The three phases of my recovery plan (surgery, chemo, radiation), left me scarred, burned and fatigued with lingering neuropathy in my feet, very thinned out hair and an immune system that is just starting to come back.  My poor body has been through the wringer, but my life would look very different right now if not for the treatment and excellent care I have received. I am thankful for that.  

I meet with my oncologist next week, where I am sure I will be thoroughly poked and prodded.  I am very much looking forward to regaining some strength, stamina and cognitive functioning (chemo-brain is a real thing).  

Dave came into the cancer centre with me today so that he could be there when I rang the bell for a second time. And yes - there were a few tears.   The bell has a plaque that says the following:

"Celebrate today

Today as I ring this bell, 

It signals the close of

One chapter and the start of another

I ring once for all I have endured

I ring twice to celebrate today

And I ring once more for the future."

It could not be more appropriate.







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