Navigating the Second Phase of Chemotherapy: A Personal Journey

Strength, resilience, and hope. Cancer is tough, but so are you. Keep going – nothing is impossible.

On 31st July 2024, I received the life-altering news that I have breast cancer (NRBC) grade 3, an aggressive form of cancer that turned my world upside down. In my previous blog, "My Journey Fighting with Cancer," I shared my initial struggle to come to terms with the diagnosis, and how I began the process of accepting this challenging new chapter of my life.

The start of my chemotherapy treatment brought with it a range of side effects, and I also had to take injections every two days to increase my platelet count. While the side effects were harsh in the beginning, it was during my fourth chemo session that my doctor decided to increase the dosage of my medication and told me that this marked the second phase of chemotherapy. The treatments would now occur every 21 days.

By the time I reached my fifth chemo session with the increased dose, I found that it took me about 10 days to recover from the side effects. However, during the sixth chemo, these side effects became even more pronounced. I’ve been experiencing continuous pain throughout my body, with the most discomfort coming from the injections. When I receive them, my bone marrow produces platelets, which triggers severe back pain. Breathing has also become difficult, and after the chemo, my throat and food pipe become swollen, making it almost impossible to swallow food and water. Additionally, my taste buds have become almost numb, and my nails and skin have started to darken and burn. I find myself spending more time resting in bed, as I no longer have the strength to work or even sit for extended periods. The body is growing weaker each day, and I know the next two rounds of chemotherapy will only make this more difficult.

Despite the challenges, I embraced my appearance during the festival month in October. I visited friends and relatives for occasions like Dussehra and Diwali, wearing traditional dresses, and jewellery, and proudly carrying my bald look. While I wasn’t entirely comfortable, I decided to not hide anything and simply enjoy my time as I had before. It was important for me to be open and authentic. One memorable moment was when a stranger, in the middle of a busy market, stopped and complimented me, saying I looked beautiful and carried my style gracefully. It was a small but powerful reminder that beauty radiates from within and can be appreciated by others, no matter what challenges we face."

Maintaining a positive mindset is challenging, but I remind myself that this is a part of the process and that there is no escaping it. Pain is something I must bear, and I strive to stay focused on the positive. Watching uplifting TV programs helps bring me some joy, and I lean on my friends for support. Their encouragement keeps me going. I also offer gratitude to Lord Krishna for guiding me through this difficult journey. His grace has brought me good doctors, and I am surrounded by a supportive family and friends, which makes the journey a bit more bearable. I continue writing to process my feelings, using my words to replace negativity with positivity.

Though this phase of chemotherapy is incredibly challenging, I know that with Lord Krishna's blessings, I will overcome it. After chemotherapy, I will face surgery, which, while difficult, is not as painful as the chemotherapy. One step at a time, with faith and strength, I will continue this journey.

As a mental health counsellor, I have seen how resilience can shine even in the darkest of times. Cancer may challenge my body, but it will never break my spirit. The road may be tough, and the pain can feel unrelenting, but in these moments, I draw strength from within and from the unwavering support of loved ones. Healing is not just about the physical body; it’s also about nurturing the mind and spirit.

To anyone facing similar battles, remember: you are not alone. Embrace your emotions, seek support, and stay connected to your inner strength. Every step, no matter how small, is progress. Trust that with faith, hope, and self-compassion, you can overcome anything. Together, we rise. Feel free to connect with us