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Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Life with Cancer: How can I have some summer fun?

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It's Lea and I am about 7 months post bone marrow transplant and it feels like summer, well sorta! I am blown away that it was a year ago today that I made my decision to go forward with a bone marrow transplant. Last year I was scared--really scared since I did not even know if I had a donor yet! I think back at how healthy I LOOKED and FELT last year even though my disease was not in control. Sure, I was out on my brother's sailboat in Maine, swimming with my mom and Kimo (my dog), going on hikes, and kayaking while my husband fished. But my blood was sick and not getting better.

Well, this year is different. I am CML free and in a much safer place with my health (which I know is the most important thing). But I am not allowed to go swimming, be out in the sun, I have a bunch of food restrictions, which make BBQs and picnics tough, and oh yeah--I have to avoid crowds. I am getting stronger each day. I feel it. It is just weird to know I am getting better but my lifestyle, compared to years past, does not reflect it.

I don't feel scared this summer--I know my disease is gone or at least in control which is better than any pool party I could imagine. But what am I supposed to do all summer long for fun? I adore being outside so this is tough for me. Any thoughts? --Lea


Be sure to check out Glamour's 15 ways how not to get cancer!


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Comments 1-2 of 2
  • Karen/BCDIY's Avatar
    Posted by Karen/BCDIY Mon Jul 14, 2008 1:49pm PDT

    Hi Lea, I'm so proud of your courage, and also that you're doing so well. Here's an idea you might want to try: wildcams from your own computer: http://www.breastcancerdiy.com/funthingstodo.htm This is a weblink from our website Breast Cancer DIY, and we've listed a whole bunch of fun things to do right from home! The National Geographic Pete's Pond wildcam from Botswana Africa is live 24/7 and there are a whole group of wonderful people at the NG forums that would welcome you and support your health efforts. We call ourselves "Pondies" and stop by whenever you feel like it. (find the National Geographic link from the weblink I posted above). Keep your chin up & stay strong! Hugs, Karen/Breast Cancer DIY

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  • Sarah Y's Avatar
    Posted by Sarah Y Mon Jul 14, 2008 4:22pm PDT

    I used to read the stories about Erin in Glamour. I feel a lot of affection for you gals. Summer fun for me = reading! I'm a nerd. I go online, choose the books, request them from my library, and have my husband pick them up. Other ideas: organize your pics into albums and add comments (like a journal), join a community of bloggers, or try to learn something new like knitting or cooking or whatever!

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Comments 1-2 of 2

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