Hi, I'm new

lizardesque

Hi all. This is my first post on the site. I'm 43 and was diagnosed with IDC in November of 2017. I started chemotherapy in December and just had my last treatment with adriamycin/cytoxan last week and start on taxol next week. I guess I just want to connect with others who have been through/are going through similar things. I don't have specific questions at the moment. I've just been feeling very tired and down lately. Everyone seems to be telling me that I'm handling this all so well, which is good, I guess, but I don't always feel like I am. I guess after the initial shock and fear that came with the diagnosis, once I had a treatment plan I was very motivated and positive. Now that I'm in the midst of treatment, it's just hard. I feel like my life is on hold, and it's just not a fun place to be.

I remind myself that I'm very lucky in many ways--I have a good support system, good insurance, a flexible job, etc. It's true, and I very much appreciate all of those things, but this is still hard.

Legomaster225

Welcome Lizardesque. Sorry you have to be here but this place is really good for information and support. You have the harder part of the chemo under your belt.hopefully taxol will be a bit milder for you. I too have great support but honestly sometimes it is so nice to be in the company of those who have taken the same path -and to be able to talk about what is really on your mind. Nice to have people to share your triumphs as well as the bad or fearfulthings.

It is hard. It does put your life on hold and that first year sucks! I am almost a year ahead of you and although my active treatment is behind me at the moment, the emotional roller coaster continues. Most of the time I feel good and I'm active and working. It is easier now. Lean on your support system and treat yourself well and take one step at a time.

If you haven't already, following and favoriting a group that is going through the same treatment stage as you might be helpful. It's nice to see what tips, tricks and common issues others have when you are experiencing the same thing

jo6359

lizardesque- I keep hearing the first year is the worst. For myself the first 10 days was the worst. The fear, uncertainty and anxiety almost took its toll on me. This forum provided so much support and great information that helped me through it. Xanax the first week also helped. My surgery is scheduled for next week and I'm ready for it. I want to start chemo after surgery and get my life back on track. This journey isn't easy for any of us but a shared journey with others who have been through it or are going through it helps relieves the anxiety. I can appreciate your fear and anxiety. We've all been through it and we will all make it through this difficult process

EastcoastTS

Lizardesque:

I'm so sorry about your diagnosis -- but glad you found us. I could not have made it through 2017 without everyone here. In fact, just went to my MO this week and immediately came back to ask questions of the group.

Everything said above is so true. Lego and I are on about the same timeline, and although my active treatment is over, I'm still managing how I feel about all this. And how my life has changed (some for the better). But the initial period is the hardest, I think. It's just overwhelming. My life was on hold for pretty much all of 2017, but I said this going in. So I didn't expect much else. I also have so much to be thankful for -- and I am thankful. But I don't think anyone but someone who has been diagnosed with cancer gets this. And sometimes that makes me feel a little lonely. Perhaps it's why I hang out here so much!

Hang in there. And come here when you need to. Like I said: we get it.

Moderators

Welcome, Lizardesque-

Your last line says it all. It is hard, but you also have the support of this entire community as you continue down this road.

The Mods