Friday, February 17, 2012

My week off

Lots of things have happened this week. I wanted to write them down so I don't forget. Overall, my health has been good this week. I still had some chemo related sickness on Monday and Tuesday but they were minor issues.

Today I feel excellent. Joe has been reading about the benefits of exercise and yoga during chemo. Reputable universities have done studies of chemo patients doing yoga. Studies show yoga is good for the mind and for the body. This morning I spent about 30 minutes on the treadmill and took an hour yoga class. I walked out of the gym feeling rejuvenated and relaxed.

I met with a genetic counselor. I will be tested to see if I have the breast cancer gene. It was a sobering meeting. I am scared about what this cancer might mean for Lauren. Regardless of the genetic testing outcome she will have to get her first mammogram when she is 20. It is good that she will be closely monitored. I am hopeful that when Lauren is 20 medical technology will give her more options for her body. I have read about a possibility for a breast cancer vaccine or other treatment options instead of chemo. I hope that Lauren never has to deal with cancer.

Speaking of the kids, we have been talking to them about my illness. I ordered a few excellent books off of Amazon.

The first book is easy to read. I caught Lauren reading it to herself. Both of these books put a positive spin on a parent with cancer.

Kate and I visited Hope's Boutique to shop for a wig and some headwear. Overall I was not very happy to be there. I'm not excited at all to loose my hair. I did have fun trying on wigs. I think I look pretty good as a blond (see photo below). When my real hair grows back I might consider dying it.

I have received so many encouraging texts and e-mails. Thank you so much for all of your love and support.

6 comments:

  1. I always thought your hair was blonde anyway. I guess it is more brown. Where did you take the yoga class? I thought you quit lifetime? You look so happy in the picture!

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  2. Love the style and color... va va voom lady!
    I'm glad you're doing the yoga. It's good for you in so many ways. Though I've never researched it my mom has said some great things about the healing effects of Tai Chi as well. Could be interesting reading and I know how you love to look stuff up ;)

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  3. Love the wig! You look awesome as a blonde! :)

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  4. Wigs are in :) You are a cute blonde. Always thinking about you and in our prayers.

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  5. If you had told me that you had just been to the salon to get your hair done, I would not have known the difference. I think of you often!

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