Deep Breathing Rids Panic

I realize some might think the following foolish and scoff, but doing breathing deep during troubling times does work at calming you and allows for the emergence of different solutions to situations...even if it means just waiting.

Case in point.

On last Monday, I received a letter from my insurance company saying they were NOT okaying my upcoming 2nd chemo session of Keytruda. Scheduled to start sometime in late August or September, denial of this "kick ass" drug was disheartening.

Calling my doctor's office, I offered my grant, proposal and white paper writing skills to better the chances on getting this approved. Ego was out the window - saving my life ruled.

Luckily, a very wise friend came up with this sage advice 'you need your energy for healing so let the doctor's office do the heavy lifting'

So true!

All I could do was breathe deep and trust the Universe it would work out.

On Friday the doctor's office informed me, the insurance company has changed course. I am approved!

Breathe in through the nose and down to the belly- one-two-three, hold it several counts and blow out through the mouth - one-two-three.

Repeat as often and necessary and the world can take positive spin.

Comments

Gone with the Wind or How Cancer stole my Hair, but not my Resolve

June 2016 April 2018 May 2018 In 2016, I underwent a full hysterectomy and was assured the small cancerous tumor on my uterus had be eradicated without any further treatment like radiation or chemo. Grateful for the fantastic outcome, I was especially delighted at not having to lose my hair. Sure, to avoid regular shaving of underarm and leg hair sounded terrific. But to bid adios to my silver mane was a step, I didn’t want to consider. Blessed with terrific, thick and wavy follicles since childhood, many had complimented me as it changed from its original platinum blonde through the brunette years to the arrival of grey strands that first appeared in my early 30s. Even then, the new color ringed my face, causing people to think it was highlights. My hairdresser told me to tell everyone, that he and not Mother Nature, was responsible. But by 2018, things drastically changed. A stage 4 tumor now invaded my body. Requiring both ...

Immunotherapy/Keytruda Side Effects?

I made it thru major surgery, radiation and even chemo with fewer side effects than immunotherapy has given me during the last month. I am on Keytruda for stage 4 endometrial cancer (tumor atop vagina). While a CTScan proved the Beast is on the run, my one knee, deltoids and ankle have experienced extreme pain and weakness. Heavy-duty painkillers (which I hate) don't seem to extinguish the 24/7 agony. I had to start walking with my walker again months after walking without it and my hiking stick. Rats! My oncologist took me off today's infusion, put me on an anti inflammatory as my usual daily intake of turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, green tea and tart cherry juice isn't working. I also have an appt with an orthopedic surgeon to make sure if there is anything else wrong. This is not a cry for help or a vent. It is just curiosity over possible side effects for Keytruda. As it is a new therapy - not all is known yet so I will keep you...

Inspiration Wherever and Whenever

No matter how well you are handling your cancer battle - all of us need a boost now and then. Here's one way I find especially helpful. Inside a baggie, I place inspirational cards, letters and quotes. Always kept in my knapsack, whenever my spirit could use some up lifting. I pull it out. Spending a few moments reading reminds me of the love and concern that surrounds me and why I must remain vigilant in my battle. What can you pack that is small, has immediate access and offers the same effect? Aromatherapy bottles, photos or perhaps fabric pieces, natural objects like stones, pine cones or pressed flowers, Be creative. If it makes you happy - its working.

Cancer is only part of my journey

Search This Blog