Everyday is a Lesson

We are learning new rules everyday about Breast Cancer and how to survive this beast. I made it through my first new chemo treatment. But was sick for awhile due to the stupid cold that was going around. I finally got over it and headed to New Bern for Christmas. Felt pretty well until Christmas morning when I woke up with new pain on my right side. I had my first ER trip since being diagnosed with stage IV. Mom, Dad, and I spent Xmas day 2010 at the hospital in New Bern. We discovered that sometimes my tumors, I call them mets, will flare up and can touch nerves that cause tremendous pain. You can't tell when it hits and you can't prevent it. You just pop a bunch of pills and wait it out. So this is how I spent Xmas 2010. It took a couple of days to feel better. We finally had our holiday and back to Raleigh Mom and I went for my second round of chemo. So far, this treatment is MUCH better than the first. I have moments of extreme exhaustion (hard to catch your breath) and twinges of pain but nothing I can't handle. I just wake up each day like everyone else and go enjoy life. Just a little slower than before.

I had to take Long Term Disability with work 12/27. But my company offers a work program where I can work some hours. I am working three days a week, 9-4. Sometimes I am not able to even work these full hours. My company, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, have been so supportive of my illness. They let me come in and work when I can. I owe them so much for allowing me to feel like a productive and normal person. Even if its just for a day or two a week. Thank you.

Vegas! I am finally heading there for the first time next week. I have planned two other trips in the past 5 years but cancer has stopped me from going. Two of my breast cancer friends, Ellen and Theresa, and I are heading out to sin city Thursday for a short weekend. I'm a little nervous that I might get tired but these two young ladies are cancer survivors so they know the deal.

Thank you for all your prayers for my family and I during the holiday season. We didn't get to have the Xmas we thought but we still got to be together and celebrate. What more can I ask for.