Halfway done!

I didn’t realize how long it’s been since I blogged until I went to actually write this one. The truth is I’m exhausted -all the time. I’ve also been having digestive issues which basically often leaves me in a bad mood because we all know how uncomfortable THAT is. Despite that, I’m maintaining a positive attitude and here to express my gratitude that I am officially halfway done with chemo!

I had my 3rd chemo session on November 16th and that evening, attended the Look Good Feel Better program, which I previously mentioned in my last post. It was so much fun and what made it so much fun (besides all the free cosmetics of course!) was getting to openly talk with other women who were undergoing chemo as well and swap fun “war” stories. For all you ladies, here’s what I got from the workshop:

nutrispecific cleanser
Aquaphor lotion
Curel lotion
Eucerin face lotion
Mary Kay foundation
Mary Kay mineral powder
Clarins concealer
Merle Norman blush
it cosmetics brow pencil
Estee Lauder eyeshadow
NYC eyeliner
Clinique mascara
Merle Norman lipliner and lipcolor
Estee Lauder lipgloss
MAC lipstick
Mary Kay travel sized sun care kit

My stomach issues coupled with my loss of hair has made me feel like a fat bald man. I’ve noticed my self-esteem has taken a nose dive, mainly because over half my clothes don’t fit my bloated stomach anymore. If you don’t know me well, I used to love taking pictures as I’m pretty photogenic. Now, I hate being in them. I feel like a celebrity hiding from the paparazzi each time.

I keep telling myself my hair will grow back and I can lose the weight, but there’s only so much self assurance one can give oneself. 2 more months, 2 more months, 2 more months…

The other good news to report is that Nicole – who is due in January – and I still managed to have our annual Black Friday marathon!! For those who know me, you know how devastated I would have been if the chemo got in the way of my Black Friday shopping!!!! I picked up my friend at 4:30 a.m. on Black Friday and we managed to stick it out – with 2 more girlfriends – until about noon. Yes, we needed more rest breaks. Yes, we needed more bathroom breaks, but we were 2 troopers!!!

Finally, saving the best for last – Jason and I are officially now living together. On this Thanksgiving holiday weekend, I am thankful to have him in my life and everyone else who has been so supportive of me through everything. I thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart. This time next year I hope to be cancer-free and thankful that I have my good health.