"If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, changethe way you think about it." ~Mary Engelbreit

Heading into day 6 after chemo treatment #3 today.... Hoping my leg pain that has hit this day previously, doesn't join me. I felt some aches in it last night but so far so good.

I'm now a pro giving myself my little needle for my blood thinner. However, I use the word "pro" loosely. Nurses DO NOT need to fear for their jobs. I've had a couple mishaps that would cause a chuckle but I'm getting used to the process.

This week, I made contact with a specially certified trainer at Level 10 Gym to work with a breast cancer exercise group. Knowing the importance of exercise for my mind and body, I wanted to get moving but a little leery about my treatments, my leg pains, my medications, etc., I thought this would be a great way to do it effectively, properly, and safely.
I met a lovely young girl who seems to have a lot of knowledge and expertise in the area. She works closely with the physiotherapist at the Cancer clinic and knows what I need to prepare my upper body for my surgery. I will also get the chance to meet some ladies who have been through their own journeys and hear about all the great things I have to look forward to - first hand. ;)

Being one who likes to make the best of a situation, I also attended a focus group type discussion with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation this week. My girlfriend, B. W. graciously accepted my invite to be my wingman. She is always willing to share her thoughts and outlook as well as has an eye for things I just do not.
Run by a firm from out of province, we were led through a series of questions to respond to in writing and then share with our small group. Most interesting was critiquing breast cancer resources, mapping out our journey individually and then as a group where we also noted the information we were seeking at each point and finally, writing a letter to a young woman.
I met some ladies again, who have successfully made it through the fight. One lady, who had the same treatment plan as I have and is 5 years post surgery, really encouraged me to attend as many types of these things as I could and surround myself with as many positive people as I could find. I couldn't brag to her enough about the support, encouragement, and help I've been given by friends, colleagues, acquaintances and total strangers.
My lifelong endeavour will be to return the favours, once I'm finished being slightly selfish and getting through this challenge.