The New Normal
When I was told I had cancer, my head began to spin and I told my self, it is okay, they will treat it. Six months later the news arrived, my cancer was not responding and we would abandon treatment. My head reeled and I was staggering in my brain and struggling to keep a functionng facade.
My normal life, was over. Nothing would ever be the same again. Comedian, Gilda Radner, said after she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, no one was funny any more.
The deluge of coulda, shoulda, oughta, every snake charmer cure and all the naysayers who will tell the horrors of your disease are just about to begin. It may be helpful to let your friends know when to simply stop speaking.
You and Terry will find your new "normal" and a sense of purpose will return. You are empowered to choose what that is and how to engineer the quality of your lives. Planning comes in three month segments and living in the moment is a good place to be.
Try to open you minds to miracles and know that your clinician is delivering statistical information, not always the truth of who Terry is.
How many repairman would have told you to trash the vintage washer, yet against all odds and with support, it washes on.
My vision for you and Terry is many more sparkling clean loads with a minimum of soak cycles.
You can always email me if I can help. Tap into support groups and National Foundations for chronic illness. Not only will you be opened to support and love, you can be channeled to many financial funds that can help you continue to live with dignity, in the face of a new challange.
Find support for you as well. As the caregiver, you become an actor, nurse, therapist and whipping post. Care and nurture you as well. Both you and Terry are dependent on your well being.
May the days ahead show you peace, satisfaction and fullfilment in living.
Kelly