October 23, 2017

Hello all,

This is just a brief update to let you know what's been happening with me.

I returned to work and scorekeeping, both activities that help me feel useful and contributing to the world around me.  Our annual softball tournament went off without a hitch and everyone had a good time.  I was struggling, but I completed the Komen 5k and my friends dragged me along.  My feet hurt lots the following week, of course.  We finished in the top 10 for contributions for the event.  Thank you all for helping out.

Soon after I went back to work, my doctor scheduled me for radiation treatment.  My left arm began to swell again which causes me great discomfort.  This process is similar to what I did in the past.  I lay on a machine and a larger machine rotates around me.  This time, I am positioned in 3 different ways, most of which are very painful and taxing on strained muscles.  It lasts around 30 minutes, but it takes some time to set up.  The staff are very understanding and help with everything from ice packs to bandages.  Radiation is M-F and I take oral chemo those days.  My last radiation day is scheduled for 11/8.

Chemo and radiation is cumulative, and the weight of both treatments is very exhausting.  I have called on friends to help me with laundry and shopping, as well as my parents to help me with my dog.  The next three weeks will be increasingly difficult but I have freed my schedule to get more rest.  I am not playing softball now, because my energy level is very low and walking is a struggle.

But I will be out there to watch and support as much as I can. 

Over this October, the fires that destroyed a lot of the Napa Sonoma area took a lot of our contributions.  You are increasing awareness just by wearing a shirt or carrying a bag or answering questions about breast cancer treatment, survivors, or caregivers. 

Last, my situation is placed in perspective daily, as three of my friends had surgery recently.  Recovery times are different for everyone, but I reach out with the only support I can offer, because I know how important it is. 

I hope everyone has a good holiday season.  It will be here before you know it.  Be grateful you have people in your corner.  You never know when you need them.

Love, Sosa