Preparing for Scans Physically and EmotionallyI think it's safe to say that almost everyone's top fear when they live with metastatic breast cancer is the fear of recurrence. We undergo the therapies, take the drugs...reactions3comments
Embracing Life's Twists: From Childhood Dreams to Unexpected BlessingsAs I reflect on my life's journey, a childhood dream of mine stands out vividly among the rest: my dream of becoming a mother. As a young girl, I'd stuff...reactionscomments
Staying Hydrated on Chemo DaysFeeling more thirsty than usual on chemotherapy days is normal. It is important to pay attention to this sign from your body. But getting enough fluids can be tricky after...reactionscomments
Turning to Faith When Times Are ToughI debated for a while whether I should write an article about religion. Faith is essential in my metastatic breast cancer journey, so I wanted to share this aspect of...reactions6comments
Do You Know Your Colors?Lately, I've been thinking about people like traffic signals: red, yellow, and green. Do you know your colors? Do you know the people in your life by their actions, which...reactionscomments
Zometa From a Caregiver’s Point of ViewThere comes a time every 3 months when my partner, Steph, receives an infusion of a drug called Zometa. Zoledronic acid (brand name Zometa) is a medication delivered via an...reactionscomments
Portrayals of Cancer in Movies and ShowsIt happens pretty often. You'll be watching a television show or movie, and then suddenly, BAM, the main character or someone they love has cancer. Can we ever escape portrayals...reactionscomments
Box Breathing and How It Can Help With StressOur lives are filled with family obligations, work and school responsibilities, healthcare appointments, and busy schedules. Stress is a normal part of life. But sometimes, stress can get out of...reactionscomments
When You Become the Caregiver: Practical TipsWe all know this metastatic breast cancer "game" we have to play is challenging for us and our families. The constant doctor's appointments, monthly scans, medication side effects, and never-ending...reactionscomments
Committing to My Wellbeing as a Full-time CaregiverI said, "I look alright," as I glanced at myself shirtless in the mirror. "Even though I'm a bit chubby, this baggy shirt still makes me look decent." My dog...reactionscomments
Caregiving and TraumaAs many of you know, I've been a caregiver for my friends and family since I was 18 years old, which is 52 years in total. In 1970, I gave...reactionscomments
How Can You Boost Your Immune System?Our immune system is an important part of our bodies. It protects us from getting sick and helps us heal. Having advanced breast cancer can weaken your immune system. But...reactionscomments
The Patient-Doctor ConnectionA common experience among folks living with metastatic breast cancer is we spend a ton of time inside doctors' offices. I travel downtown several times monthly to check in with...reactions3comments
Speaking Up: The Importance of Self-Advocacy With Your OncologistsRecently, my hip was bothering me. I was experiencing pain to the point of using a wheelchair to get around. My breast cancer metastasis is present in my brain and...reactionscomments
A Love Letter to the ThriversI am a survivor of stage 3 breast cancer. I will celebrate 11 years post-diagnosis this coming June. I remember waking up from the first surgery (there were many) with my...reactions2comments
How to Handle Insurance Denials and LimitsFinding out that your health insurance company has denied a claim can be frustrating and complicated. Understanding what an insurance denial is and what you can do about it may...reactionscomments
Setting Boundaries: Prioritizing Well-Being at HomeLove is in the air, and you know what else is? Germs. That probably wasn't the first thing to come to mind, right? It certainly should when you are going...reactions2comments
The Fallible Caregiver Series: Finding Strength and Connecting to EmpathyI consider my wife and I a relatively young couple. Rebekah is 35, and I'm 45. We've been married for 8 and a half years. Rebekah has been fighting stage...reactionscomments
Why Does Self-Care Really Matter?At my age (I'll turn 73 in September), epiphanies are few and far between. That could be the price of grasping at life and all its experiences so greedily for...reactionscomments
Playing “Twister” With CancerCancer doesn't consider the calendar. It doesn't avoid birthdays or important dates. We've spent holidays, anniversaries, and even some dates holding hands in a waiting room. We've said no to...reactionscomments
