Things I learned from going through Chemo.

We all have a story.

I'd like to share a bit of mine. It's not a dramatic story, but one that I've learned a lot from along the way.

I was diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia back in August (2024). I had had some blood work done for a rash, and when the results came back, my white blood cells were sky high. Soon after, my lymphnodes started swelling. There was discomfort- in my neck, under my arms, in my hips. But I felt fine. Then the tiredness and brain fog hit. But I kept going. My first lesson: patience

The oncologist and I decided to start chemo as soon as possible. So on January 15th, I settled in the chair at PCH at 9am and received my first dose of chemo through IV. 2nd lesson: trust.

I went 2 days in a row 1x a month from January to April. I know I'm among the MANY who receive chemotherapy and I am one of the lucky ones that mine wasnt a hard dose (because I have a chronic Leukemia, not acute). I never lost my hair, I never threw up. I did, however, get nauseous the first time. The next months I got a new nausea pill and, presto, no more more nauseous feels. 3rd lesson: never think you are worse off than anyone. BUT acknowledge that you need help too.

I routinely had a week and half of feeling, let's say " under the weather". As you know, I didn't have much of a presence at the gym. I would get frustrated, I must say. Some days I'd walk around like a zombie, and it drove me bananas! I decided to take on a new project besides cleaning closets lol. I signed up for a Holistic Weight Loss Course. All online and done at my pace. Perfect. I can't wait to share things once I'm certified!! I grew to enjoy more time at home 🙂.

My 4th lesson: it's ok to slow down.

Lastly, human beings are amazing. Let me explain. 1st our bodies can withstand so much (I mean I knew this already from birthing children! Lol), 2nd, we can be so generous! People brought meals, gave $, bought groceries, took care of kids! Amazing!

5th lesson: appreciation and acceptance.

And now I'm back. Thank you for allowing me to share this with you. Its good girl me to reflect and hopefully it helps you out.

FITSTOP NEWS!

CHALLENGE:

We are coming on to week 2 of the challenge. You can find all the info on our website (bit.ly/FitStopChallenge), or on the bulletin board. There are also paper copies of the challenge on the desk at the entrance of the gym.

PLATE TREE:

So, I've been moving things around. I'm trying to make each space in our gym usable and in seeing that we have ample pegs to place plates, I removed the trees. Please use the pegs and do your best to put the same weight together.

PSA:

When people are doing core work on the floor or stretching in the Stretch Room, please don't do weight lifting around them. Please find another spot to go.

NUTRITION 🍍

Reminder that Adrienne Mcdonald is available to meet one on one with our Food 2 Flourish Nutrition program. Food2Flourish@gmail.com

BIRTHDAY DRAW 🎂

We have a winner for April: Janet Pineau

Congratulations!!

Don't forget to enter if your birthday is in May!!

That's it for this week!!

Stay tuned for more blogs!

Tracy