Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Keep on Moving!!

I am not even going to beat around the bush on this point.  I can honestly tell you that it is so much easier to KEEP moving than it is to stop and try and restart moving.  I think this not only applies to your physically moving but can apply to any area of your life.........even love.  Think about it!!!
As I am venturing back into the gym to try and build some muscle, strength, and indurance I realize this is incredibly hard and painful.  We take for granted our ability to walk from point A to point B until we can no longer do it.........for me just getting through a grocery store to shop is a major and painful task.  I know it will get better though.......but only if I keep the momentum going.  Laying around all day although it feels good and is easy is hurting me more and more......just like the longer you wait to get your personal goals in motion the harder it will be with eaching passing day by doing nothing.
I am up to 30 minutes on the treadmill plus up to 2.4 mph.  It hurts so much and I block out the pain with music.  I can barely step off the treadmill by myself when I am done but I know my body is healing thru the pain.
Tim is right there by my side...coaching, cheering and personal training.  I know nobody wants to see me healthier and happier than he does.  Figure out who your biggest fan is and let them help you with your goal.......whatever that might be.
With new health insurance that took affect on Jan 1st came the need for a new family doctor.  I am so blessed I got a referral from one of my best friends, Dr. Gonzalez.  I met her for the first time today.  I actually felt embarrased going into the appointment.  So many health issues as a result of these past couple years....just felt like I was 90 years old, not 50.  She really made me comfortable and my fears and reservations went right out the door.  I quickly realized I have an advocate that is extremely supportive with a genuine desire to help me on this journey as much as she can.  I feel like a weight has lifted off my shoulders!!  I have met the perfect person to help guide me and coach with the time I have left.  She is certainly one of my many angels!!
I really had a good day today......much better than I had expected.  We sometimes forget life throws us a good pitch from time to time too. Remember to be grateful!!!
LIVE WITH PASSION!
DJ

Monday, January 7, 2013

Radiation Graduation

Today was a big day.  It was my last radiation treatment, forever.  I completed my 6 1/2 week program and it is my understanding you can only go through radiation once in a lifetime.  I am fatigued yet excited to be all done.  Now I get a month off with no trips to the hospital.  I can officially start my rehab.  Oh I know I still have cancer, regardless I plan to get back in shape.  I even joined our little local Maple Valley gym today.  This is really going to be a challenge for me.  I am so used to being strong and when I jump into the workout routine...it is with both feet running.  Go big or go home!!  However, that motto will not work now, in fact it will hurt me.  I have absolutely no muscle mass anywhere on my body.  I know only lost weight along with my ass on this journey but I lost even enough muscle to lift 10 lbs.  I do not know if I can even walk 10 minutes on a treadmill but tomorrow will tell.  I am really lucky to be here and even have an opportunity to get back in shape.
Radiation was fun today....they played music that all had JUMP in the title...they took pictures which I will post tomorrow and I got to rign the bell three times!!  I also got a big hug from everyone that has been on this journey with me and a certficate of completition. LOL. I felt like a kindergardener on the last day of school.
My joints hurt so bad, turtles move faster than me, I have constant ringing in my ears, insomnia, headaches, extreme tooth sensitivity, mouth pain and tingles in my fingernails and toenails but other than that I AM ALIVE!!
We do not know if any of my treatment the past several months has impacted PJ, my tumor.  We will not know anything until my next full check up on February 7th.  So my job now is to focus on all things good and forget that I have pancreatic cancer.  Best way to do that is being in the moment LIVING my life on my terms.
I am so grateful for all my girlfriends and son that were my designated drivers so I would not get a DWC (driving with cancer) issue.
More tomorrow with pictures and a gym update!!
LIVE WITH PASSION!
DJ