I had my monthly appointment with my oncologist this afternoon. He is very happy with the progress I am making. No changes to medication, just keep doing what’s working. They scheduled me for a CT Scan and a brain MRI on January 4, then a follow-up appointment on January 9. That should give us some definitive answers to how much progress I am making and if any changes to my treatment plan are needed.
Meanwhile, I am feeling much better, making progress gradually, going for walks when the weather permits and doing some tai chi practice more regularly. My energy level is improving… slowly but surely.
I am learning to pace myself. It’s hard for me to sit around and do very little, yet I can’t argue with the results. The free time, the rest has done wonders for my body. I was tempted to get back on a schedule, but was told (very wisely) not to. When we put things on a schedule, we go through the day on auto pilot… do this then that… even if they are activities good for us like tai chi, meditation, walk, etc. Once it’s on the schedule, it’s a thing to do. It may make us feel very productive especially in the short term, but it keeps us from having to “listen” to life’s calling. That’s how I got into trouble before, I was the master at fitting everything in… to the point my body had to say no to me in a big way. Now that I don’t have a schedule, I have to check in with myself and see what I want to do moment to moment. Throughout the day, I would ask myself, “what would give me the deepest joy?” whatever comes to mind, I would go do that. I am practicing living with joy so my body says yes to life. Cancer may end up not only saving my life but teaching me how to live more fully and joyfully.
Outstanding news Helena, this is amazing. Keep listening to joy, it seems to be doing you good and getting you stronger.
Wish you an uplifting and joyful time with David and Brett over the holidays!
Phyllis
Thank you so much, Phyllis! Happy Holidays to you too!
Happy Thursday!