Monday, December 5, 2022

THIS AIN'T MY FIRST PINK RODEO

Hey Y'all! I’m Pam, welcome to my new blog! Some of you might remember that I’ve had a few blogs in the past. I used to write about my adventures in running, especially marathons. Can you believe it? I used to tackle those long distances! I might not have been the fastest, but I did my best!

In October 2016, I faced a major life challenge when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. To document my journey through chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation, I started a blog. I also shared my experiences dealing with moments of "chemo brain."

Once I completed my treatments, I attempted to create a new blog covering various random topics. However, that blog eventually died due to neglect. 

During the pandemic, I had plenty of time to write, but I wasn't going anywhere or doing anything other than watching TV and eating, so I didn't have anything worth sharing in a blog. I suppose I could have written about the countless times I sought comfort food in the kitchen!

2020

2020 was an incredibly stressful year due to the pandemic and quarantine. To make matters worse, I received a diagnosis of cancer recurrence.

I got my second diagnosis in early November 2020. After discussing my new treatment plan with my oncologist, a nurse handed me a card and told me to call the number on it to schedule an appointment for my husband and me to attend a Cancer Orientation class with an oncology nurse. A what? Seriously, do you think I need a lesson on how to have cancer??

The nurse was great, but this was old news, other than what side effects I could expect from my new meds. I just felt like screaming....."EXCUSE ME...THIS AIN'T MY FIRST PINK RODEO!" 

ON THE BLOG AGAIN?

So, why am I starting to blog again now? Well, I have more to write about these days. But do I have anything meaningful to contribute to the blogging world? I'm definitely not a professional writer; my grammar could use some improvement, and with my ongoing struggles from chemo brain, I find it challenging to construct a coherent sentence.

Despite these challenges, I feel compelled to blog. Two years after my second cancer diagnosis, I believe I might have insights that could help someone else on their breast cancer journey.

NEW BLOG?

After considering whether to revive one of my old blogs, I've decided to start a new one instead, believing that a fresh start is the best approach. 

While I plan to cover a variety of topics, my primary focus will be sharing my experiences with cancer for the second time. Although I’ve never been to an actual rodeo, I thought it would be fitting to name my blog: 

**THIS AIN'T MY FIRST PINK RODEO**

This new blog is still a work in progress, and I appreciate you stopping by. I’ll be back soon with my first official post!

                                                   



GOODBYES

Last month, I visited the Cancer Center for my regular monthly appointment and saw my oncologist of eight years for the last time. Dr. Saker...