1 Year Post Chemo

So, i am officially one year post chemo......WOW, i honestly did not see this day coming so quickly.  it sometimes feels like yesterday that i was told i had Breast Cancer, the words resound in my ears at times and its still difficult to believe at times.  I can remember so clearly the day i sat in the Chemo chair for the very first time, it is a feeling that is gut wrenching and also surreal.  I never imagined going through what i went through, but one thing i did know was that i was ready to fight the biggest battle of my life, for my life.

I always say that although we believe it will never happen to us, it can and as scary as the statistics of 1 in 9 is the reality is there.  The numbers are terrifying and real, everyday countless numbers of men and women are diagnosed not only with Breast Cancer but any cancer.  When i post each month for #feelitonthefirst I am not trying to be pushy or intrusive, i am trying to help one person be aware of their body.  We all have busy lives and forget to stop and listen to what our body is telling us, trust me your body gives you signs, you need to take a minute to listen and act.  My body gave me signs that i ignored and now looking back i should've listened.

One year post chemo, how do I feel?

I feel grateful for everyday that i wake up and see the faces of my daughter, husband, family and friends.

I feel grateful for having gotten a second chance at life

I feel grateful for everyone who stood by my side then and now

I feel grateful that my experience has allowed me to help others and put myself out there to help others

I feel grateful to be able to speak about my journey and learn from others

I also feel pain throughout my body due to Fibromyalgia that i developed through my chemo. Pain that i will probably have to live with for the rest of my life, among other side effects, pills are the answer to which i do not agree, they are a band-aid that may help with one symptom but can possibly bring on many more.  So i wake up each morning put my smile on and go about my day, i refuse to let it take over.

I feel sorrow for what i have lost and will never regain.  I lost both my breast, i lost my female reproductive organs, i also lost myself at some point, and i am slowly finding her again but I will never be the same person I was.  I look at life from a different angle, one that is not always black and white, but one that has more color.

I am blessed and grateful for my life, my husband, my daughter, family and friends.

Thank you for always supporting me.

Yes, once again this year i will participating in the CIBC run for the cure, the foundation is amazing and i can say that i did use their patient services during my treatments.  They do not only put the money towards research but also towards the patient care.  I was able to get a massage, they provide wigs for free during the time you need it, they provide free yoga classes, they provide financial help, Look Good Feel Better and so much more.

If you are interested in joining my team or donating please click on the link below.

Love & Kisses
Franca

http://www.supportcbcf.com/goto/breasts4life