Chemo: Round 1!!!

1st chemo down!!!

Wow so many emotions writing about my first chemo treatment. Did it totally kick my butt? Yes! Knocked me to my bed for a good few days, but around 5 days after I started feeling a little more like myself again!

Me with my little cross my Godmother gave me during chemo!!!

I’m so grateful for all my family and friends who have been showering me with love and support during this time. However, a lot of people have been referencing this as a “bump” in the road and been apologizing for disturbance this cancer caused in my life. I understand where they are coming from, but I like to look at this as a mountain that I’m going to climb. I choose to view this as something positive and know that as long as I keep climbing, there will be something beautiful at the top of the mountain.

Anyways, here’s what I’ve learned throughout this week:

1. The Lord works everything out for good

It’s easy to question why would a good God cause suffering to those who follow Him. But here’s what God says,

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28)

Gods makes everything happen for a divine reason and everything is for good. I’m comforted by this truth and knowing that there will be so much good that will come from this.

2. Suffering helps grow, prosper, and strengthen you

Suffering and trials are certainly not fun but God designed them to help you grow. Here’s what He says,

“Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope” (Romans 5:3-4)

It is so cool that in this verse it says to rejoice during suffering. We can rejoice because there is truly so much good that comes out of our suffering. I delight in this truth and knowing that my perseverance and character are growing during this time.

3. The Lord is by my side every day

During this time back home it certainly can feel lonely while all my friends are back at college. Going to doctor appointments and chemo sometimes makes me feel very alone. However, I am comforted in knowing His truth that He is always with me,

“And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

I love this verse and I am constantly reminding myself that the Lord is with me literally every step of this journey. He is with me through every doctors appointment, chemo session, surgery, you name it he’s been there!

Back to logistics, my oncologist is planning for 12 rounds of chemo, one round every two weeks. I’m trying to negotiate for only 10 but she doesn’t seem to be budging just yet. Anyways, 1 down 11 to go and next round on April 17th!

Thankful for all the love, support, and prayers I have received from so many people. But, most importantly I’m beyond thankful for the everlasting love the Lord gives me each and every day. He is so good and is working in me in so many ways right now.

If there’s one thing I hope those who read this know is, there’s always a reason to smile 😊

Grace