My oncology visit was much less painful with an all clear as far as cancer & good blood work. The doctor also let me know that my chances of getting lymphendema are quite small -- another good thing. However, he misinterpreted why I was asking about it (the EMG doctor was worried), so he proceeded to lecture me on having a positive outlook and how far (and well) I'm doing. He told me to rationalize my worries (and pain) away by telling myself how well I've overcome my cancer. However, he also acknowledged that as a doctor and non-cancer survivor, he doesn't actually know how I feel or have felt.
I realize I'm incredibly blessed to be here with a healthy 2 year old chemo baby as well as husband and son. I thank God every day for my wonderful family. However, I don't think it is too much to ask to be a more "normal" 30 year old mother and wife. I mean, come on... Constant pain in my left arm, neck, and hand is obviously better than being dead from cancer, but it is no where near "normal". I don't want to be a bodybuilder, but picking up one of my babies shouldn't be so painful. However, everyday that I have, pain or not, is a gift from God. One I hope I'm living up to His expectations!
Bless you Erika; your cross is heavy, but you are carrying it with grace and showing others how it's done. :-)
ReplyDeleteAs for the EMG, I had one myself. Ouch doesn't really cover it, does it? :-P Peace, and hang in there!!!!
Erika- I am a 3 1/2 year BC survivor which is how I happened across your blog. I am also your sister in Jesus!! When I saw that you had an EMG and then I read the words weakness and brachial plexus, I HAD to write you! My husband was diagnosed with Neuralgic Amyotrophy 8 months ago (sometimes called Parsonage Turner Syndrome). There is not much written about it and very little known about it except that they do believe it to be an auto immune disorder of varying causations. We still do not know what caused his reaction. He has paralyzed fingers now and weakness in both hands, fingers and left arm/shoulder. He goes to P.T. and O.T. nearly every morning before work....going on 9 months now. The prognosis is 2-5 years for full recovery and nerve regeneration. After I completed chemo (almost a year after) I had reaction in my lips and eyes of swelling (we're talking ridiculous deforming swelling) which after lots of testing and doctors and specialists was determined to be an auto immune response to CHEMO! The reactions would last 3-8 hours each time and eventually stopped after a couple of months. You can contact me at motherspreciousgems@comcast.net if you would like! I hope you are having a better day! Blessings-
ReplyDeleteKoryn