I’m few months away from completing treatment for metastatic colon cancer. 2 years of immunotherapy(Keytruda). It got me thinking about what’s next. I still have residual side effects from the chemo and radiation, neuropathy in my hands and feet, lymphatic system sucks and chemo brain. With Keytruda, it f*#ks with my autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and takes all the wind out of my sails. I have managed most of this with medication, but now they are not working well. So, what will I be doing? Try to lose some of this weight I’ve put on. I already eat right and just don’t exercise enough, but that’s hard to do when I’m fatigued and achy all over. I do enjoy gardening, so I work out in the yard this time of year and it’s hard to get things done with all the breaks. I go rock hounding once a month. My friend of 61+ years makes this possible and she doesn’t mind the fact that I need to take lots of breaks. As for house work same thing lots of breaks. I need to work on strength, stamina and weight loss. I will get it done in my own time and in my own way.
Here is the hardest part of it all. I may look good on the outside with my big smile, but inside there is struggle. People assume your doing good and want to give you advice on diet and exercise. They mean well, but unless you have had cancer, going/gone through treatment or know someone is going through this, you have no real idea what they are struggling with. Everyone is going through struggles, but instead of advice, just be there for them, listen and if they ask for help, give it to them. I am so grateful for all my family and friends. For all the love, support and prayers I have gotten on this 13+ year journey.
Thank you
