It's That Time of Year

It's summer, it's hot and the boys want to swim.  What does that mean...swimsuit shopping.

Pre-cancer
For many years it has not been a fun venture finding that perfect bathing suit like it was in my early 20s when I had a very active metabolism.  Trying on a bathing suit for me always brought about guilt and disgust with myself for not taking care of my body.  I would sabotage fun at the pool with my boys by either not going at all or once I got there I didn't want to get up and into the pool for fear of people staring at me.  Insecurity at its highest!

Post-cancer
A few days ago, I took my husband with me to find something since ultimately he is the one I am more concerned about how I look.  We went to several stores and I never gave up because I knew I needed something for the holiday weekend.  A few times John would ask if I was okay, knowing how prior years brought on depression.  He is such a wonderful man!  I told him that I was fine.  I have accepted how I look (for now) and don't want it to keep me from having fun.  He was a little stunned and taken aback.  He said this was a totally different experience for him.  I took that as a compliment.

It was difficult trying to find something that didn't over-emphasize my misshapen breast or irritate the radiated skin, but we did!  I look forward to my time at the pool with my boys.  I will have to let you know if the confidence sticks once I get there.  :)

Next summer will be different with my new boobs!!!

Have a wonderful holiday weekend.

Survivor Story

I wrote a brief article about my journey for my Susan G. Komen local affiliate.  This will give you a summary of my battle to kick caner's butt.  I can't believe it will already be one year from when I was diagnosed with breast cancer on July 11, 2012.

http://www.komenmidmissouri.org/get-involved/volunteer/survivor-story-christina.html

Thyroid Update

It has been two weeks since starting treatment for hypothyroidism.  This has been another up and down journey in regard to my energy level.  My doctor has me on 175 mcg of Synthroid (generic name: Levothyroxine) right now.  This is considered a high dosage since my thyroid level was at 25.3 (normal range 0.3-4.0).  I feel like the drug is working.  I have had more energetic days than fall-asleep-wherever-I-am ones.  What sucks is that I was hoping it was going to be a steady increase to feeling better and better, but it seems that I will have a couple of really good days and look forward to the day and then I crash and that day consists of trying to stay awake and warm (the cold intolerance comes back).  It just amazes me how much your thyroid runs the show physically and emotionally.

Because of my last post, I have heard from many women who tell me that they are on thyroid medication.  I never knew this issue affected so many people.  I definitely empathize with each and every one of you. Though, I feel reassured that things will get better after hearing your stories.

I pray that there are more better days to come sooner than later!