Unprepared
I met with the neurosurgeon on Wednesday. It was a very different experience than when I first met my oncologist. When I met my oncologist she was very direct and came to the appointment armed with a clear plan of how they intended to treat the tumour in my cervix. I was prepared for a similar style meeting - I had planned a list of questions largely focusing on treatment, side effects, timescales etc. But this appointment was very different.Any treatment - regardless of where it is targeted - comes with it’s own set of risks and repercussions. But it is only now I am beginning to fully appreciate how complex an organ the brain actually is. Treatment in such a delicate area and the side effects are all the more acute. A lot was discussed and it has been a huge amount to take in. The anti-seizure medication alone warrants its own set of side effects, one being 'rage' - not the best news for someone who's nickname used to be Ragebox! (Watch out Funny Boy!) The situation is far from straight forward and each option has a range of potential risks and benefits. Decisions need to be made and in order for those to be thought through thoroughly more information is required. I struggle to decide what to wear on a day-to-day basis so this is going to be tough. For now we are taking time to do more tests, time to review our options and time to decide our plan of attack.So how am I feeling? My good friend put it best when she said
“Cancer f*cks with everything’
and on this occasion I have an extended list of life admin as a result of my new diagnosis. I spent today drawing up a spidergram to help manage the tasks within my control. I feel completely unprepared for how life is going to change. I am trying hard to pre-empt and where possible minimise these changes but already I am feeling a loss of independence - the luxury of being able to drive wherever and whenever I want is something I definitely took for granted. My poor dad is definitely feeling the strain as chauffeur - not because he hates driving - because he can't listen to the cricket when I'm in the car!I haven’t had a big emotional break down yet. Despite glassy eyes on several occasions I have managed to keep all tears at bay but this is not to be confused with me 'putting a brave face on'! Believe me - I have the best support system who are actively waiting, encouraging, hoping I'll cry! But the reality is it still doesn't feel real and despite breaking the news to friends and family I don't feel like this is happening to me. I don't feel scared for what lies ahead I simply feel unprepared.
#FUCANCER