Feeling "down" is natural at times like these. I Thinkback to the time 2 years ago that I was given less than a 50% chance to live out the year. What did I do??
First - I decided to surround myself with positive and restful energy, like playing the CD's that help me relax and get out of my self pity. I kept the answering machine ON so I don't have to get the phone if I didn't feel like talking to anyone. (Some people have a way of trying to help, but making you feel worse.)
Second - I decided to get rid of some stress by taking care of some nagging things that had been sitting around and staring me in the face. (With over a year of treatments and all, I was tired and letting some things pile up that I needed to take charge of.)
Third - a decision to try and be the "exceptional cancer patient" came over me when my mind and heart had cleared a little. I found the book "the Making of Herceptin." I read about people liker Ginger Empy (who I always wanted to somehow contact and let her know how her story had inspired me - and here she is on this site!)
Fourth - during the period of not knowing whether my tumors would respond to treatment, I tried to devote just a little time to what I would like for my final days and burial. I got something satisfactory in mind, but did not write it down, thinking I will do that when the time is nearer.
Well, I still havenot written those things down as I came out of my poor prospects with a much better than expected outcome.
Try to somehow take charge of your days - try to get something postive doneeach day and you WILL feel better.
Easier said than done - as I have been in those shoes. Took a great deal of effort to manage. Let yourself find strength in some activity, whether only mental. It will help.
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