First Day Back to Work

I was warmly welcomed back by my coworkers.  I felt loved!  It was really nice to see everyone.  I made my rounds through the building saying hello to people. If I missed you I apologize.  I didn't want to make my whole first day about socializing, but I could have.  Come see me if you want to visit.

I went back without a wig or hat; au naturel.  I received lots of nice comments about it.  Definitely boosted the confidence.

It was a great first day back; other than sore feet (I wore heels...what was I thinking!  I have worn tennis shoes or nothing for the past eight months.) and turning my ankle in the parking lot and skinning my knee.  (Because of those darn heels!)  Chalked up as lesson learned.

Looking forward to the days ahead.

Back to Work

I am going back to work tomorrow, Monday, April 8th.  I have been on medical leave for eight months and have appreciated every minute of that time.  I have been able to focus solely on my health and my family.  I am blessed to be in a financial situation that allowed me to take that much time off.  Very blessed that my company offers long term disability insurance.  Never thought I would be needing that at this point or ever.  Side note...if your company offers this benefit; I highly recommend that you pay the little amount of premium to have such a valuable coverage.  (Maybe every company has to offer it; I'm not sure, but I'm going under the assumption that it is optional.)  Nevertheless, I think it would be a good idea for you to look into it for peace of mind.

I am feeling excited and anxious at the same time about my return.  It will be nice to get back to precancer life but the transition will be difficult for awhile. I look forward to seeing my coworkers again.  I have received tons of support, thoughts and prayers from so many of them.  I don't know how many times I can say that I am blessed but I truly am.  The transition back to the working world will be a shift not just for me but for my family and my department at work.  My department has handled things without me for so long, that this will be a change for them to incorporate me back into things.  My husband will have to make some changes with his schedules so that the kids are taken care of.  Today my son, Kalen, asked if I was going back to work tomorrow and I said yes.  He had a sad face and said "that means we won't see you as much".  My boys are worried about the change also.  We will make it through; just have to take it day by day.

I would love prayers for a smooth transition for everyone involved during this next phase of my life.

Three Weeks After Radiation

I am so grateful for the continuous recovery.  Each day gets better and not worse.  I feel like I am at my highest point, emotionally and physically, than I have in a very long time.  You have seen the worst of radiation so I thought I should show you how it does get better.

I can lay on my side without pain my range of motion has improved.  It's amazing how the body can heal itself.  I am one happy person!

In the past week and a half I have started walking for exercise.  I plan to make exercise a priority going forward.  Something new to focus on.  Along with selling our house and going back to work.  :)