Mourning the person I was
Watching Physical: Asia which is a competition show about people at the peak of their physical ability. It's a great show and I love it. But I found myself crying watching them realizing that I am past my peak physical self. The joint pain I have from Lupron stops me from going to the gym most days. Today included. I was a professional dancer and a marathon runner. I am so lucky to be alive right now and am so grateful. This just hurts.
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Hi @lovesbts7, and thanks for posting.
We know life after breast cancer treatment can look so different from what you're used to. It's not fair that the disease is such a theif in so many ways. You're not alone in feeling this, and we're sure others will share their perspectives soon also.
In the meantime, try to give yourself some grace and be gentle with yourself. Your body has been through a LOT and recovery takes time. And, the side effects from hormonal therapy can be no joke. However, there are ways to mitigate these side effects so you can start feeling at least a little bit better, and perhaps take baby steps to getting to a place where you feel a little more comfortable and confident.
We're providing some links to help you manage these hurdles, but we hope others will be by soon to support you. Again, your'e not alone here!
And, for motiviation, join our thread:
We also host a Bonded by Breast Cancer Virtual Support Group where topics just like this are discussed, as folks figure out life after treatment.
In addition, in January, we'll be hosting a webinar on exercise after breast cancer — we'll be providing registration info soon, and we hope you'll join us for expert tips and tricks.
Gentle hugs,
—The Mods
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Thanks Mods. I'm teary reading your message. Just knowing I'm not alone in feeling this way is helpful. Hoping for better days. I would love to join the online support group and webinar. I'll keep a look out.
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@lovesbts7 I can totally relate!!! I was just discussing this with my cancer physiatrist who has really been so helpful to me. At our first session, we discussed cancer fatigue and exercise in general and I started P.T. with a specialist she works with. My second session was about nutrition and learning I need 20g protein three times daily for bone healing and how to deal with the severe G.I. issues I was having from the Verzenio (now gone). The third session was more about bone healing now that G.I. was under control, increasing my calcium and vitamin D (she referred me to the Osteoporosis website that has a calcium calculator so I could check my daily intake first). Something she said to me at the last session sticks with me DAILY: "People are on these medications for many years, however, it takes up to two years for most people to fully adjust to their new bodies and abilities." As a very high-energy first grade teacher (retired early) and grandma to young kids (some requiring a 5-hour plane trip I have not been able to make at all this year), I was feeling devastated at my low energy levels, monthly treatments, side effects, and ability to participate. The physiatrist's statement really helped me and I'm getting better about it and glad I'm still here and grateful for the treatments. These message boards have been a tremendous help, also. Peace and healing thoughts for you.
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