Tuesday Thoughts

Dealing with any dibilatating illness can be very tough. I can only speak from my experience while dealing with colon cancer but I will tell anyone that is willing to listen to me that it's not easy. There are tough days, followed by very tough days with some good days thrown in to the mix just to give me that sense of feeling fine. However, that being said I will say for the most part - I try to feel fine daily. But it is not an easy path.

Dealing with cancer is not just about my physical health, but it is a balance between the body, mind and many conflicting emotions, often in the face of uncertainty and change. And trust me - when fighting with cancer there are constant reminders of uncertainty in my life. However, there are ways I fight through the emotions I feel on a daily basis as I strive for a better well-being.

Energy Management is key. There are days I feel stronger and other days I feel that I am exhausted and just cannot do anything. But I don't find that to be a weakness. To me it's my body doing the best it can given the situation I am in. I allow my body to rest when it tells me I need rest. Listening to what your body is telling you is important for any situation you are facing. Don't push yourself more that you can do. Allow the body to rest and recover. Don't think of the tiredness as a weakness. I think of it as a strength I have to simply listen to what my body is telling me to do.

Gentle Activity is important. Take a walk if you can manage it. Or simply lie in bed and do some stretching and breathing exercises. This can often ease fatigue, reduce stress and improve one's sleep. I often tell others sure I can't run a mile any longer, but I can take a small walk in the park and simply enjoy the birds chirping and the flower's blooming. Do what you can but never over exert yourself as this can often lead to other complications.

Nutrition is essential. Even when you have those days that you feel that you cannot eat please know that you must eat or at least drink. Have a protein shake, enjoy a smoothie. I've been told by doctors to eat what I can and not necessarily what I should on those difficult days - this is a great example of self care.

I also need to remind myself (and so I remind others as well) - it's perfectly okay to not be okay. As a cancer patient go ahead and feel that sadness, the anger and the fear you face on a daily basis. Today, I want to remind everyone that strength does not mean "pushing through" or staying positive all the time. Having strength means being honest with yourself and allowing both your hopes and struggles to co-exist. Resting, saying "No" and asking for help are the biggest acts of strength that one can have when dealing with difficult situations.

As a cancer patient I will not allow my illness to define me. Instead, I am defined by my faith, my love, my resilience and my hope that tomorrow will be better. I think that is all I can ask for. Continue to hang on to hope and never give in to giving in.