I feel so useless

Lexica

I so want to be productive and helpful at work and home. But I can't remember a damn thing. I've always been a bit forgetful, but with the chemo and now the AI, it is so much worse. I can't focus, and I can't remember things day to day. My husband is frustrated (although supportive) because he has to follow me around and make sure I don't forget things (like picking up my kid - which has happened). I can't get anything significant done at work and am just barely functioning well enough to do the minimum. I feel like a burden to my coworkers instead of an asset. I am in a fairly competitive field, where, if I can't keep up, I'll likely be forced out. AGHHH!!!!! I just want my health back.

Peregrinelady

It will get better. I remember when I was first on the AI, I would be speaking and couldn’t come up with the last word in my sentence. I felt so stupid, especially when talking with colleagues. I also had my ovaries out, so the combination of instant menopause and AI was a doozy. However, as time has gone on my cognition has improved and I have made sure to get enough sleep, which really made a difference for me. Write down reminders, set alarms on your phone, tell hubby to remind you, repeat things in your head. You are not useless, you are coping with a life threatening illness and doing the best you can. Also, exercise helps. You may want to try a different, less stressful career, if possible, as well. Take care of yourself.

Alicethecat2

Lexica

As you're pre-menopausal, is there any particular reason why you're on an AI?

Is it worth discussing with your doc if you could switch to Tamoxifen instead?

You might find the side-effects a little easier.

Good luck

Alis

wallan

Lexica:

I do understand your angst. I struggle with the same thing. Hugs to you.

Its good to read from others it gets easier.

wallan

Lexica

Thanks, all. I do hope it gets better. I had multiple PE's found during my diagnostic CT, so tamoxifen is off the table.

LaughingGull

I also felt like that at the beginning, but things got better. I am almost a year into the AI, and I feel less stupid now than I did six months ago. Give yourself time. Your health goes first now, before work, and you need the AI. Try not to be hard on yourself. I joined a meditation group for cancer patients and it helps with everything.