It’s hard to believe but I only have 9 treatments left!!! This has been a very challenging and even scary experience. At times I wasn’t sure how I was going to make it through. I don’t think I realized how difficult it would be. Although very different from my experience with chemo I would say this has been equally as challenging.
My experience in the simulator before treatment made me actively face the fears I was trying to ignore. At that moment I amped up my mental and physical training to prepare. The repulsive taste and painful sores in my mouth have also provided challenges beyond what I expected. Choking on an antibiotic pill and gasping for air was another low point. I was by myself, couldn’t breath and couldn’t get the pill to go down my throat due to the inflammation. So far I’ve been able to overcome all of these challenges and gotten through the first 21 treatments feeling relatively healthy and strong.
The doctors and therapists have been warning me that the last 10 treatments can get very rough. I’ve been preparing myself through diet, exercise, meditation, prayer, sleep and staying connecting with family and friends. Week 4 was actually better than week 3! I’m cautiously optimistic that I will be able to complete the treatment without a feeding tube or any other complications. Actually feeling very positive right now!
Moment by moment I check in with my body and try to give it what it needs or push myself to eat, exercise or talk on the phone. I’ve been reading some great books on art, architecture & kabbalah and am very motivated to getting back to work on my commercial photography, fine art and classes. I’m also looking forward to being back home with my family and tasting food again! All big motivators to push through with a positive attitude!