Moans and Groans

I wish that I could say that this post will be happy and exciting as my others, but I really need this time to vent.  I just have two simple words: CHEMO SUCKS!!!

Imagine that you have the flu.  Take away the fever and the sneezing/coughing and you have what I'm going through this week.  The pain that I feel in my joints/muscles hurt so much.  I read that light massage helps, so after enlisting my trusty massage therapist (a.k.a. my boyfriend), he was able to provide a small amount of relief just by running his hands over where I was sore.  This relief, however, didn't last long.

I found that my 1 tablet of Flexeril helps some, but I might ask the Dr. if there is something stronger to help alleviate the pain in my joints.  The anti-nausea is working great (Compazine), and I relish in the fact that I'm not praying to the porcelain gods.

I feel so worthless right now because I'm unable to muster enough energy to simply do the dishes.  The boyfriend says that he understands and that it's only temporary and that I'll be back to my old self in no time, but it still hurts not being able to take care of him, let alone take care of myself.  I need some serious strength to get through this. 

On a more positive note, The American Cancer Society contacted me and provided me with a bunch of services that they offer!  Today at 12:30, I will be attending "Look Good, Feel Great" which is a free makeup/skin care course taught by a cosmetologist specializing in cancer patients to help them feel more beautiful despite the side effects of the chemo.  Also, TOMORROW I GET A WIG!!!  No more hairless Tiffany! 

I knew that this road was going to be rough, but I didn't realize how rough it really was going to be.  All I can say, I guess, is 2 down and 10 to go!

My Apologies

I'm sorry for my disappearing act, but I promise that I'm back.  Unfortunately, I was hospitalized for two weeks in order to undergo tests to find out if I, at 23 years old, have cancer.  I do.  It was diagnosed on April 4, 2011 as Hodgkin's Lymphoma.  It is a scary thing to be told this type of news, but strangely enough, I have taken it pretty well. 

I have already begun chemo, and have come down to North Carolina to be near family and friends through this.  I will still blog and try to keep up, but forgive me if I tend to lax once in a while. 

If any of you have ideas for a Madness Monday post tomorrow, please comment!  I would love to hear your ideas!