Something I found very difficult when plunged into the alien world of illness is that you yourself have to be a quick learner. New language, feelings of euphoria (“the staff are all angels…I’m so lucky”) and resentment (loss of autonomy, agency, control), dealing with the physical stuff which is infinitely compounded by uncertainty and emotional stress.
I was a career NHS professional, being a patient was infinitely harder.
When people say you're strong that doesn't only apply to being tough enough to get through this (which you are). It's also being strong enough to be honest about when it all feels a bit shit, with yourself as well as other people. Not everyone can, but you're doing it brilliantly.
Steroids are a necessary evil and one of the side effects is feeling blue! I had to take a very high dose recently for 10 days and the withdrawal feelings were just how you described. I took to my bed as I just didn’t feel like my usual self. Thankfully it passes. Thank you for sharing your experience. I’m rooting for you. Pastries looked lush and your descriptions of them word perfect. My mouth was watering! A belated Happy Birthday to you Kate 😋🥰xx
Kate I'm so sorry you felt like that. It's classic, shitty chemo. I also found the steroids horrendous and actually was able to have them reduced - otherwise I had no sleep for four days a week and then a 'roid crash. You can ask whether you can have fewer (though they might be even more important with immunotherapy). The only thing I can tell you (less than a year after finishing treatment) is that you will feel normal again.
I’ve always liked the phrase ‘This too will pass’ but it can be hard (impossible) to remember when things are very bad. Your resilience and strength is incredible. You weren’t kidding when you said this post has all the feels. Much love.
The cakes look gorgeous! Glad you are feeling brighter. I stopped taking the steroids because they kept me awake for three nights - they were only giving them to me for anti-sickness so I realised I didn't need them once I'd had my magical anti-sickness pill (which I got every time after I was so sick on the first round). So may be worth asking what you are taking them for and if you actually need them (they were fine for me to stop). There are going to be more hard days I'm sure, but every day you get through is a day closer to the end of treatment. You will get there xxx
Something I found very difficult when plunged into the alien world of illness is that you yourself have to be a quick learner. New language, feelings of euphoria (“the staff are all angels…I’m so lucky”) and resentment (loss of autonomy, agency, control), dealing with the physical stuff which is infinitely compounded by uncertainty and emotional stress.
I was a career NHS professional, being a patient was infinitely harder.
Kate, it’s so important to share the downsides.
Thank you.
When people say you're strong that doesn't only apply to being tough enough to get through this (which you are). It's also being strong enough to be honest about when it all feels a bit shit, with yourself as well as other people. Not everyone can, but you're doing it brilliantly.
Walking alongside you, Kate. I hear you.
Small treats make HUGE differences, something to look forward to, too.
Talk about a learning experience!!!
You got through the crappy days and you will do again. But with increased knowledge and awareness. That will help, I hope. Much love xxx
Thank you for continuing to share with others the bright & beautiful days, along with the good, the bad & the ugly.
You are helping far more people than you can imagine.
Sending love and hugs of positive support x
Steroids are a necessary evil and one of the side effects is feeling blue! I had to take a very high dose recently for 10 days and the withdrawal feelings were just how you described. I took to my bed as I just didn’t feel like my usual self. Thankfully it passes. Thank you for sharing your experience. I’m rooting for you. Pastries looked lush and your descriptions of them word perfect. My mouth was watering! A belated Happy Birthday to you Kate 😋🥰xx
You are a warrior! Remember to rest though, whole days doing nothing are fine. Please send this to Julien Plumart! X
Kate I'm so sorry you felt like that. It's classic, shitty chemo. I also found the steroids horrendous and actually was able to have them reduced - otherwise I had no sleep for four days a week and then a 'roid crash. You can ask whether you can have fewer (though they might be even more important with immunotherapy). The only thing I can tell you (less than a year after finishing treatment) is that you will feel normal again.
Those pastries! Works of art x
So honest. Even more respect and love to you Kate. XX
Here’s to the healing powers of great cake. I’m sorry you went through such a bad time. Sending hugs and Canarian sunshine xx
Sending you love. x
A belated happy birthday. As Laura says, this too will pass. Sending you love and support xxx
I’ve always liked the phrase ‘This too will pass’ but it can be hard (impossible) to remember when things are very bad. Your resilience and strength is incredible. You weren’t kidding when you said this post has all the feels. Much love.
The cakes look gorgeous! Glad you are feeling brighter. I stopped taking the steroids because they kept me awake for three nights - they were only giving them to me for anti-sickness so I realised I didn't need them once I'd had my magical anti-sickness pill (which I got every time after I was so sick on the first round). So may be worth asking what you are taking them for and if you actually need them (they were fine for me to stop). There are going to be more hard days I'm sure, but every day you get through is a day closer to the end of treatment. You will get there xxx
What a rollercoaster, Kate! Xxx