My prayers and thoughts are with you. Jules ... View more

Hi Ally, I was tired for around 1 month but picked up after that. Its been 3 months and am feeling like my old self again....laughing and happy. Jules ... View more

Hi Ally, Of course you are still yourself. Antidepressants dont/wont take away your beautiful personality. As for tiredness, yes it happened to me as well. I get a lot of dizziness from my meds, so I take care when standing/sitting to quickly. Take care Jules ... View more

Hi Sarah, I understand how you feel. I too have been in an emotional and abusive relationship, but when I was younger and I was healthy. I'm sorry your "friend" would be so insensitive. She is not thinking "how would these words affect me if spoken"...she is a sleeping soul Sarah. One phrase that i have learn't since my cancer, about friends, family and work people is; "It is none of my business, what you think about me". This has helped me greatly when words and voices are constantly running through my mind and I cant shut them.... Also, i use the phrase; "Friends for a season, Friends for a reason and Friends for a life time" Have you contacted life line or cancer council for counseling and a reasonable solution regarding homelessness Sarah, they do help. I dont know if this helps at all, but keep blogging it out, write it down and keep seeking support anywhere and everywhere Sarah. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Take care. Jules ... View more

Hi Ally, Im now on antidepressants also due to not being able to climb out of mood swings. Instead of the word "depressed"I like to replace it with "transition" because that is what is happening.....we are transitioning from a place of pain and grief to a place with less of these feelings. My renal physician, surgeon and psychiatrist have all advised me that once begun anti-depressants, even though i will feel wonderful after 6mths to complete at least 1 yr, this lessen a relapse of depression after gradual ceasing. Also, you might put on weight or lose weight....I have put on 4kgs....however it has not effected my kidney function and Im being more healthy with food and exercising more and less fighting with the family due to my mood swings, so 4kgs of weight has been a small price to pay for HAPPINESS, I am however also very active, every 2 weeks with counseling and hynotherapy, it is costly but my happiness and zest for life is priceless and I do have an understanding husband when it come to investing money in myself. Let me know how you go ally and all the best. julesx ... View more

Hi Nic, I dont have your cancer, however, welcome to the club where you are required to be "special" in all the wrong ways. Keep blooging and talk soon. Jules ... View more

Hi Lara, What a selfless and loving daughter and father you both are. Your mum does know on some level especially sub consciously. Wow, what a beautiful and strong family you are. What you are both doing is so unconditionally loving.....Im blown away by your commitment. Give your Mum and Dad and You and family a Christmas to remember with smiles and hugs, make it the best memories ever....maybe some Mr Michael B, crooning carols will set the mood too. You can start with a champagne breakfast, more bubbly than food maybe, followed by lunch and if Mum is well enough maybe dinner out somewhere special. Bless you all Jules ... View more

Hi Stephanie, We've talked before about protein shakes....Welcome. This is a place that you can talk, cry, scream, and talk about anything and you will have at least one person respond to any blog. Some of us have had chemo/radiation, some haven't, however we are all living with the effects of cancer. My best advice is to write it all down, get out of your head space...just blog Steph. I'm now 8mths post diagnosis and only now has it sunk in....I had bloods the other day and sat there and cried...I got the nurse crying too as her hubby was off to Afghanistan rotation. Everyone has a story here and you will be able to derive courage and motivation from all. Another tip is to research "Groups" link above. I have joined the "in touch" group for online support every 2 weeks Thursdays. This has helped immensely. Oh, watch out for Ben Bravey, Ben blogs are inspiring and tongue in cheek humour. Take care Jules ... View more

Thank you Uneek, Geez that protein shake sounds delicious....unfortunately im the other end, having to curb my protein intake however thank you for replying and keep in touch and let me know how you are going from time to time. You keep beating that cancer too love. Jules ... View more