National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.

I am enjoying a bit of a break between treatments right now, and have to say, it is so nice to not have life ruled by the medical world for a bit! The break was not planned -- it came about because of a second coming of the c-diff infection, not my choice of a way to get a time out, but has turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

For the first time since the surgery, etc., I've had a chance to have a breather, get back some energy and re-group. Because of some other major health problems and disability, the chemo hit very hard, so I'd been basically bed-ridden during that. This has given me a chance to get back on my feet, even run a few errands, see a few friends. I'm lovin' it!

I gave up on the wig. I could not find a way to make it comfortable. Too hot, itchy. So, even though I had wanted the privacy, I've gotten used to the scarf bit. At home I generally go about looking like a female Mr. Clean, sans tattoos. Luckily for me, I have a wonderfully supportive husband. I do not know how I would have gone through this without him, or my great friends.

The hair's just starting to make an appearance-- I call it my 5 o'clock head look. I can't tell what color it's coming in. Some of the hairs look darker than they were, some lighter. Mystery hair. Last night I was lying on the sofa reading and one of our cats hopped up and started licking my head-- promptly stopped-- gave me this look with her eyes all screwed up and her tongue half way out, like "ick, what's with the bristles, lady." Hey, I never asked her to lick my dome...

Sure speeds up the showering process, tho. One towel. Saves on shampoo. Only real problem I've run into is a few pimples on my head. I have absolutely no idea if they show up because there's now no hair, or if you always get them, but never know because they're usually covered up... another of the minor details that are not in any of the "So now you've got Breast Cancer " books. Someone should put out a book with all the little things thaat may or may not come up, and ways other women have dealt with them-- and which ones mean yes, call your doctor.