hey, it’s okay…
(things I’ve learned since my diagnosis)
It’s okay to take a nap, or two, or three within a single day
It’s okay to let the negative friendships go. Know that there will be people in your life that slowly drift away and change after learning about your illness. Hold onto those that encourage you and empower you, through the good and bad
It’s okay to ask for help – specific things to get you through the day: a ride to work, CBD oil, a walk (not exercise lol), a drink or two. Or specific things to help you prioritize self-care & self-love: therapy sessions, art therapy, music therapy, goat yoga
It’s okay to be confused at times. Chemo brain is real and it happens to the best of us
It’s okay to filter through the many anecdotes / stories / or advice from others; although they mean well and most will come from a helpful place, it will be overwhelming
It’s okay that your friend’s-mother’s-co-worker’s-niece didn’t lose her hair or experience the same side effects that you are going through. Everyone is different, chemo cocktails can vary, our bodies react to things differently
It’s okay to be real – when to speak about your feelings, experiences (with strangers, on your blog); what you have the energy to do; when you feel like shit; when you feel less like shit
It’s okay to give yourself time to grieve your old pre-cancer self. You’ll reminisce about things you used to do, things that you can no longer do because of treatments, side effects, time, scheduling, etc. Change is a bitch and so is cancer. Be sad. Be mad. Be pissed off. BUT know to not be mad, angry, pissed off at the people who love you. It’s hard not to project it when times get tough (i’m still trying)
It’s okay to celebrate the little things and big milestones – hair growth, one pain-free day, no more chemo, a new fabulous wig you got for $25, clear margins
It’s okay to not be positive all the time. This life is tough, it kicks you when you’re already down and tries to swallow you whole. Being true in that moment will help you move forward, one tiny step at a time.
It’s okay to figure out who you are now… Take your time. Breathe. Love. Find your new bright place