In Like a Lamb, Out Like a Lion

Hey everyone!  The title of this post does not reference March weather, but rather is my description of my chemotherapy side-effects.  My first round of chemo was not nearly as bad on my body as my Oncologist predicted.....truly as gentle as a lamb, for the most part.  My second round, however, came roaring in like a lion and has "sucker-punched" me a number of times.  I've never thought of myself as a "Rebel," but it seems that my body has decided to try out most all of the side-effects of my current chemo drug.....no matter how remotely or rare they typically are!  Here are a few that little "rebellious" me has given a whirl:

1. hair loss, and we are not just talking about the noggin 
2. blurred vision and watery eyes.....no lashes to catch the moisture
3. neuropathy in finger tips....think numbness & pain when confronted with zippers, buttons or pretty much anything that requires the use of two fingers pressed together
4. cough or hoarseness 
5. sore throat 
6. dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position...."I've fallen & I can't get up" is to be avoided
7. feeling of warmth...not too unlike the joys of menopause
8. redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest....again, not unlike menopause
9. emotions on constant alert with tears "at-the-ready"
10. skin rash and itching 
11. ulcers, sores, or white spots in the mouth
12. annihilation of tastebuds leaving only 2 choices: salty or metallic 
13. senses of smell and touch are in overdrive.....trying to make up for "taste"
14. unsteadiness or awkwardness.....kind of like the old toy "Weebles"
15. unusual tiredness or weakness
16. weight gain....kind of adds insult to injury

Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining....well, okay, maybe a little!  I just want you to know that the photos I post each week are me putting my "best foot forward."  It's also me on the day I typically feel my best.  The chemo drugs from the previous week have dispersed through my system enough that I feel as close to normal as I possibly can, and that small window of "feeling good" is what gives me the strength and encouragement to deal with the rest of the week.

I also must confess that putting this smiling face out there on IG & FB each week is a very selfish & vane action on my part.  I LOVE the very kind and encouraging words that all of you send me.  Your sweet words are nourishment for my soul; and at a time when I find it very difficult to feel pretty, your sweet words nourish my vanity.

With all of the above being said, I continue to feel so very blessed.  I know I have it so much easier than many who are fighting this cancer battle.  I only have 2 MORE CHEMOS to go, and then it will be onto the next two phases of my treatment -- surgery and radiation.  I already have consultation appointments set up with my surgeon and the radiologist on January 4th....starting "2016" on a fast-track!  My sweet hubby and I are very anxious to have our comfortable and "boring" lives back.  And speaking of this sweet hubby of mine, he makes me feel so grateful and loved each and every day.  He has taken on the full  responsibility of running our home and caring for me.  I cannot imagine dealing with this illness without him, but I know there are many who don't have a choice.  Again I feel humbled and blessed to have The Man, our children and grandchildren, extended family, and a wealth of friends who continue to offer positive support.  You are all my "cheerleaders," and I love and appreciate you so much.

Now, go forth and have "Christmas-fun!"

Warm hugs,