Overcoming Cancer

The cycling workout is getting easier. I was able to spin for 6 minutes yesterday. My husband recommended a distraction to help me exercise longer- watch a YouTube video instead of the clock. And it worked.

I managed to bring down my blood sugar readings. The last couple days it has been under 110.

I completed my fitness goal to use the bike at least twice last week. An exercise duration of 5 minutes at a time seems doable.

I have all but eliminated night time snacks but I have had some moments of indulgence during the daytime.

While weight loss is important to me, my self esteem is even more so. Cancer treatment is the reason I’m at a larger BMI. It will take time, but the weight will come down with healthy habits. Being able to do more without being exhausted is a win.

The weight continues to rise, and the energy go down. I set goals for the next 2 months: maintain a blood sugar reading no higher than 110, and lose 2 pounds.

Lately I have been getting more sleep and waking up fully rested. I set my alarm later and give myself extra sleep, without tossing and turning.

This little adjustment has helped me do more during the day and stay alert. I’m doing less procrastinating on projects in need of attention. The fear of failure is tempered with problem solving confidence.

For example, my attic looks better because I got help and made good use of that assistance. Now I see hope that this overwhelming clutter will be tamed this year.

This morning I stretched for 5 minutes, in the early afternoon I tried out the bike trainer. 2 minutes was all I could muster.

My goal for this workout is daily. I can work up to 5 minutes for a week or 2 depending on how often I attempt it. My first try felt just like biking uphill. It was a little awkward to start, and also uncomfortable. I got used to it, though.

I have had to step up to the role of caregiver for my mother, who injured her right shoulder, so I am naturally more active these days. I believe I’ve struck a balance between responsibility and relaxation without getting frustrated.

Still, there are important chores I have failed to do promptly, which upset my husband. I finally paid a bill this morning, and though not late, I usually pay it sooner. Then I neglected to call for medicine refills for our elderly dog, so I delegated the task to my husband, who did it right away.

The housecleaning is progressing. A closet got cleaned and cleared of clutter. Books were placed on shelves. Recycling and trash removed. Donations made. Useful items became more accessible.

Life is getting more manageable.

It seems those polyps removed during my last surgery are benign. While that is good news, am I just going to keep getting those things every couple years? What if one is malignant in the future?

Another side effect of Tamoxifen is retinopathy. That is also a risk with diabetes. It could be that my oncologist will eventually change my medication. Maybe I could get along without it. I am taking Protandim. I think it’s function is similar to tamoxifen in that it supports the body in fighting cancer from coming back.

So far I haven’t got anymore cancer. Maybe it’s working.

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Unfortunately, I have gained 5 pounds this month. I haven’t really exercised much, but I’m still eating the same. And with meal assistance, I have been eating well, for that matter, though I am not overeating.

I’m also drinking a lot of coffee with creamer. It’s my main vice that I can’t stop. I have been incorporating more water, so I get my fluids.

The D n C surgery has left me sore and uncomfortable. I don’t know what the pathology report is yet. I’m hoping for the best. It could be that my oncologist might change my medicine.

The breast MRI was followed by an ultrasound. The conclusion was benign, which came as a great relief. My prayers were answered!

Now I need good news from my gynecologist.

The annual mammogram was negative. No reoccurrence so far, but the fear is still there.

I have a genetic aberration called Chex2 that causes breast cancer. I’m taking a supplement to help prevent more cancer. It’s called Protandim and it’s sold by LifeVantage.

So far, I think I’m on to something for $50 a month.

I’m gradually fitting in a workout during the week. It’s a stretching routine I learned from Curves. It’s easy and doesn’t cause too much discomfort.

I managed 2 workouts over 2 weeks, but the goal is 3 times a week.

The next goal will be a toning exercise with the stretching. of course there should be some cardio, but I can get that doing housework.

I feel so much more relaxed lately. My nerves are settled. Getting sleep helps my frame of mind.

I was able to fix dinner tonight. My mother usually does it, but I actually felt like I could do it, it was very enjoyable. I hope I can do it more often.