Thursday, January 14, 2010

The End is Just the Beginning

As a movie comes to a close, and the film fades out, two words scroll across the screen to signify the happily ever after...The End. Although I finished my last round of chemotherapy, The End is not here.

On January 6, I received my final chemotherapy infusion. Although this was such a wonderful feeling knowing I was done, the event that matched it was throwing out Mr. PICC. Yes, you heard it from me. Mr. PICC is GONE. So after all of these events, the infusion nurses threw me a celebration "Bubble Party". I felt on top of the world.

PICC Line Removal - I braced myself for pain, but it didn't end up hurting at all!
Celebrating at the Bubble Party

Then the next chapter came - radiation. On January 13th, I met with my radiation oncologist (Dr. T). During that appointment, I got my tattoo - which I am happy to report is the size of a small pen dot. You would never notice it! Whew. I'll be starting radiation in the beginning of February - 5 days a week for 4 weeks.

Now I want to talk about the reality of it all. Although I responded beautifully to chemotherapy and really had a lot of great feeling days, I can't even think about chemotherapy without feeling sick to my stomach. This last round was definitely the toughest, and I had 2 dates with the toilet. I still don't have a taste for many foods and tire easily. My skin is very pale, my eyebrows are weak, and I've lost some eyelashes (I'm not sure if that's due to the treatment or stress - regardless, they're gone). My hair did not survive.

This photo was difficult for me to post because I don't want it to be real, but it is, and I want to share the truth with you. I frequently think about how much hair I'll have when Dashing and I get married.

So since THE END of chemotherapy, I have the next 2 weeks to recoup and recover before I BEGIN radiation.

17 comments :

Unknown said...

Such a beauty...I love you sister

My name is Sara. said...

Still gorgeous! Have a good relaxing two weeks!

Alice said...

You're amazing. Congratulations on completing chemotherapy!

Lindsey said...

Enjoy your two weeks and rest up for your next fight. You are so beautiful and such an inspiration!

melissa said...

You are so strong and brave. So glad chemo is behind you & I hope radiation is a breeze! You'll be beautiful bride, I just know it.

THE Stephanie said...

You are seriously amazing! And still absolutely gorgeous! Congrats on "the end!"

Mrs. Dawkter said...

Congrats on finishing chemo! You are a wonderful and beutiful inspiration!

Josie said...

You are a champion and continue to inspire me!!!
TDH and lots of love!
Josie :)

Ams said...

You're doing an amazing job! And your positivity is something we can all take a lesson in :)
You're a beautiful lady!!!
Congrats on getting that stinkin' line out!

Ms. Katie said...

Dashing will think you are the most beautiful thing he has EVER seen on your wedding day (hair or not!) Congrats on finishing chemo! You are an inspiration!

Love Lace said...

You are absolutely amazing and a true inspiration! Enjoy your break before radiation!

Anonymous said...

I am so moved by this blog, your courage and honesty are incredibly moving, and when others would want to run and hide the fact that you share your difficult experiences with everyone who reads your blog is so amazing. Sending you all the best for the coming month. Keep strong xxxx

Saskia said...

Congratulations on finishing chemo!! I really, really hope that the worst is over and done with for you. Like the other commenters have said, you really are an inspiration... thank you for sharing with us.

Also a massive CONGRATULATIONS on your engagement! What exciting, happy news.

xx

Sweet Simplicity said...

You are such a brave girl! And still gorgeous! Yay for being done with chemo.

Anonymous said...

Yay for finishing Chemo!

Lindsey Claire said...

Sara Cate, I've never met you, but just wanted to let you know I'm so sorry for all you're going through, and that you are sincerely in my prayers. I love the honesty of your blog, and your heart and joy in the midst of all this! And I can tell God is using you to inspire and bring hope to many!! I pray that He will strengthen you and give you peace and healing through the radiation process as well.

Also, congratulations on your engagement!! =)
Sorry this comment is ridiculously long. lol

KE said...

Hi Sara,
Have been thinking of you this past month; it was my 9th b-day. When I read your posts they take me back to similar experiences and like you, I too have a lovely tattoo! Keep looking forward, allow each day just 'to be', and know you are 'the woman!' Congratulations on your engagement. You're in my thoughts and I am sending healing vibes :) Kris

 

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