One woman newly diagnosed with breast cancer interviews someone in remission

https://www.facebook.com/SelfMagazine/videos/10155036384813811/

6 month follow up at Princess Margaret

This past week I had my 6 month checkup with Dr. Conrad, the radiation oncologist.  The anticipation of the appointment was worse than the actual meeting.  I talked about my transition back to work and some residual side effects, and she did a physical exam.  All went well.
I have mixed feelings going into that hospital. It's been a nice break not going there - when I get there it feels strangely comforting and anxiety ridden at the same time!

One of the main things (other than fatigue and trying to regain full stamina again) that I mentioned in terms of side effects is the neuropathy.  I still get the tingly feet a bit and more recently my hands have been a bit achy.  It seems worse when the weather is rainy.  It's not much fun.   Chemo certainly does a number on your body and I have read that it ages you 10 years.  Weird to think I am in a 50 year old body the moment. Most days I don't feel that way though.

I had a session with Dr. Hunter this week too, and it was so nice to see him and give a bit of an update.  I talked about my transition back to work and to my new job and how happy I am with the change.  He's been a big cheerleader of mine over the last year and I don't know what I'd have done without him!  He told me I could make a follow up for 3 months from now, but if I don't feel I need it I can cancel.  So in a way, I was given the green light to be "released" from his care.  Feels a bit scary but also like maybe it is time.   I would say that although I am still managing my stamina, emotionally and psychologically I am in a pretty good place and have moved through the traumatic events of the past 16 months. I guess I should give myself a pat on the back for that.

Hair watch - one year post chemo!

One year post chemo and I had hoped my hair would be longer but it’s on the way! Blessed to be where I am now.😊

Run for the cure 2017!

Last Sunday Shannon and I ran the run for the cure 2017! It was a fun event and a bit emotional too. Together we raised almost 3000 dollars which is so amazing! 

As I was running I thought a lot about the last year/16 months and I am a bit amazed how far I have come.  I feel very grateful for my state of health today and was able to run it in 37 min - which isn’t fast by any means but it was faster than my practice times and I think I was one of the only survivors to run it period! Most walked. 

I am very grateful for a wonderful friend who shared this day with me too.

I also met Dr. Alexandra Ginty who wrote the book “Both sides” - part of it talks about how being a breast cancer survivor has influenced her role as a doctor. There is also a lot of inspirational poems and quotes and general advice that helped me move forward from my own diagnosis.

Run for the cure fundraising

My page is up for run for the cure and I've received quite a few donations!!

Hoping to raise more money before October 1st :)

Jen's Run for the cure 2017

Hair watch - 11 months post chemo!

Running practice

First run since the spring, trying to get ready for Run for the Cure October 1st!

I am not the fastest and had to walk a few times to catch my breath - but I finished it and that's what matters!  11 months post chemo and 7 months post radiation/end of treatment so I will give myself a pat on the back.

Mimi was waiting in the window when I got back home :)