I just finished reading this wonderful book. Two days it took - says it all. Thank you Harker for so eloquently telling the world how it was/is for you and while each of our experiences is different, the similarities are there for each of us. My experience has not been nearly as fraught as yours but for all of us the common threads are there. The line "I sensed for the first time that I am changed" resonated completely with me. For me it was the day I had my picc line put in and then asked directions to the oncology unit. I had no-one with me, and as I walked towards the sign I realised that I was no longer someone who had only had major surgery - I was now a cancer patient. Nothing is ever quite the same again, is it? Once again, thank you. ... View more

I have to agree with Zen-the uncertainty of post cancer life is really hard. My husband has been in remission for 4 years, and I've had to make an effort to concentrate on living the great life we have now, and not just be 'waiting'. I saw a therapist as well, and also found it really helpful in dealing with the 'new normal', and addressing my fears about him relapsing. I also agree with Zen that it does get better gradually. Big hugs to all, Emiy ... View more

Artist ... I am sorry you are going through this again. I prefer Artistinrecovery again! Julie ... View more

You're all so right! I read an article about Mindfullness today. It talked about accepting life as it is at that moment, and accepting your thoughts and recognising them but not getting caught up in the negative chain of thinking that is so easy to fall into. Thanks for the tip about ringing the cancer council, Pimbok. I thought about it but after reading all the posts here I found that my perspective has shifted. I went to the pool today and swam a few laps. It felt good. I used to swim a lot but since my neck dissection I have reduced ability to use my left arm and usually find it very dis-spiriting to be unable to do the things I used to. Today I focussed on what I could do. Silly's right. It's about enjoying the life you have. I just need reminding. I think that finding so many people who have similar thoughts and experiences has made me feel less isolated. Thanks. ... View more

Hi Zen, I haven't heard of a quest for life...I'll check it out on the net, does it have similar philosophies to the Gawler foundation I wonder? I'll see if I can get the recipe book from the library...you can never have too many recipes:) Thanks for the welcome and you too Di. BWAH (be well and happy) Hev ... View more

Milo ... It is interesting that you keep linking the same article all over this site. I must admit I am stumped as to why you feel the need to do that. 🙂 ... View more

As soon as my cancer was surgically removed I felt like a survivor. Despite what my surgeon and oncologist thought ,I knew it would not get me.Nearly 15 years later and it still hasn't. Yes Swim72 you are a survivor,hugs Ron. ... View more

Hi Zen, Thanks so much for your kind words. It means so much to me to be able to share my challenges with this community. My son, P, starts his chemo on Monday...supposedly, for 6 months. We'll just take it a day at a time. Best wishes, and thanks again, JudyMJ ... View more

Hi Judith, I am going through Chemo at the moment, and have leg problems, got about 5 weeks to go now,(which will make 5 months) and am having the same problems. hope yours gets better as well. Thanks Samex and Zen for the comments, Its good to hear from others that it does get better. Samex, I am trying the feet elevated bit too. Have to do this lying in bed as I would never get off the floor otherwise. LOL. and trying not to cross legs, which is a really bad habit of mine. I figure nothing is too small to try. Cheers Vicki Anne ... View more