I know I just finished the brain radiation at the end of April, and finished the spine radiation in early May but it feels like it is taking a long time to get back to feeling even kind of normal. I had a few days where I was eating everything in site and then the stomach started acting up again and now we are back to food being unappealing and being nauseous a lot of the time anyway. Legs are still not cooperating like I’d like them to, and I am tired like I’ve never been tired before.
My radiation oncologist seems to think that it is still related to healing: “We did a lot of damage to your body Ashley.”. I do understand what she is saying, last year it took almost six months to recover from three doses of one of the chemos. I get it, I just still wish I was healing faster.
Part of it is probably a prejudice on my part too. A little over a year ago, just after the double mastectomy, they wanted to do radiation on the right side breast area as a “prophylactic’ measure. Just in case there were still cancer cells floating around over there in that skin even after all the chemo and the surgery. I was debating it. I know several survivors who have had long term side effects from treatment and the ones with the worst long term issues, they have all been from radiation. I have believed all along that it is harder for our bodies to heal from radiation and takes longer and I guess I am proving that. Time to shut up and wait I guess, and go to the gym and try to eat better and get back on my supplements so I can get my body repaired ASAP!
Radiation after my mastectomy definitely knocked me on my rear more than any other treatment, including chemo. I think I seriously flirted with depression over it. The good news is that I don’t feel that way anymore. Be kind to yourself, Ashley.
Hang in there Ashley. We are all pulling for you. Will keep the prayers coming. Sorry I did not say hello to you the other week at Coney.
Ashley
Just submitted my first grant to the national cancer institute(NCI) Research in my field is clear- exercise and physical activity is one big answer. Not only for improved quality of life but faster recovery and improved long term prognosis. If legs are still not listening- PT/OT is the answer. Ask your oncologist for a referral. Let me know if we can help- xxoo
Yes, had this conversation with my onc yesterday. I’m supposed to get more exercise to try to fight the fatigue and weakness. I know it will help, it is just hard to get motivated.
We are always hardest on yourself. I’m the same way. Think of what you would say to a friend in your position, and say it to yourself.
Ashley
Keep your head up. You have always been one of the most positive people I know. I wish I had your strength. You are an inspiration to us all. We will keep the prayers coming your way.
Chris Schroeder