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Linda K. on April 11, 2008
I was Diagnosed with:
Ovarian IV
Employment Status:
employed
Gender/Age:
57
Type and Description of Treatments:
2nd round chemo - gemzar
How do you feel today?
Feeling fine. Worried get new diagnosis on Monday 4/14/08
Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your life?
I have slowed down, Taking trips that were put off. finding new and renewed friendships.
What is going well for you right now?
Still here! In a good mood. Glad I have a job that is flexible. and a good husband
What is not going well for you right now?
They found a 1.5 in tumor on my colon and I will have to change treatments. Surgery might be an option. I'll find out next week.
What has been the most challenging thing about having cancer?
Making time for the disease and treatments.
When difficulties overwhelm you, where do you go for support?
My husband is a great source for relieving stress.
How have your long-term goals or life goals changed since diagnosis?
I want to travel more see everything I was saving up for in my "retired" years.
What is your work arrangement right now? What are your hours?
Very flexible. I can come and go and work from home.
Everyone is very supportive
Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your work life?
I used to work 12 to 14 hours a day. Now I work 6 to 8 hours a day. I finish those things that are due and don't have to be the first or the best one.
What has helped you continue to work the most?
My boss.
What advice do you have for others trying to work through treatment?
It keeps you mind off yourself. It puts you with other people and I have found that there are a lot more people worse off then me!
How have you dealt with any side effects of treatment?
I try not to let them take over my life. I will not give in to a minor ache or pain. I continue to walk when it is difficult. I just have to rest more. I eat whatever I want and know I'll pay the price if I eat something bad for me. At least I made the choice. I do not take pain pills unless it is absolutely necessary or my husband says its time. I have lost some control of my life due to the treatments, but not all!
If "today's you" could give advice to "day-of-diagnosis you," what would you say?
Get your emotions out find out everything you can about the disease and treatments have a pity party with those near and dear friends and then get busy and fight fight fight. DO NOT BURDEN EVERYONE WITH YOU LOT IN LIFE. They may ask, but what they really want to know is that you are fighting and getting better. So thats what I tell those not in my circle of friends.