2011 Wrap-Up

To paraphrase Charles Dickens, 2011 was the best of times and the worst of times for me.

Lessons I wish that I didn’t have to learn this past year:

  • That chemotherapy, the accompanying medications and low blood counts cause you to forget a lot of things that happened during treatment
  • That two people I considered close friends would belittle my cancer and judge how I handled it
  • That the hardest part of treatment is when it’s over because you don’t suddenly feel better – inside or out
  • That during menopause you: 1) are hot all the time; 2) can’t sleep well; 3) can’t get wet, even when you’re turned on; and 4) are moody and irritable
  • That Philly Matt not only didn’t have my back when the chips were down, but wasn’t an authentic friend or boyfriend
  • That not all charities and advocates are truly about the cause
  • That there was an expiration date to realizing that Best Boy was right about the fact that we'd be a good couple
  • That I have a long way to go before I look in the mirror and like what I see post-cancer
  • That the side effects from hormonal therapy for breast cancer can outweigh the benefits of taking the medication in the first place
  • That hearing about how great my short hair looks causes me to cringe because I didn't choose this
  • That far too many people have encountered the same feelings and reactions that I have during and after treatment

What I’m thankful for over the past year:

  • My amazing friends
  • Teaching, my students and my university. The joy I experience from teaching has been a huge unexpected blessing for me in 2011!
  • Not having to worry about a roof over my head, the clothes on my back, health insurance and food in my stomach
  • Best Boy and a dating life that's interesting without much drama
  • My doctors
  • My health
  • The comfort I get from my faith
  • Feeling like I’m doing just what I’m meant to do with respect to this site, my charitable endeavors and my advocacy work

Despite so many blessings, I can't wait to ring in 2012. I wish that I didn't learn so many hard lessons this year, but I know that in the long run, I'll look back on this year as one of huge personal and professional growth. For now, though, I can't wait for 2011 to be over, and I'm praying for a peaceful and healthy 2012.

I hope that you all have a wonderful New Year’s Eve and that 2012 brings you much for which to be thankful!!! xoxo

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