Don’t take energy for granted

I’ve just woken up from 10 hours of uninterrupted sleep and I’m still tired. I hate the feeling.

My recovery from chemotherapy for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (a blood cancer) has not been without its challenges. Peripheral neuropathy (tingling fingers and toes) was something that took a lot of getting used to but I am pleased to say that after more than 1 year since my last chemotherapy infusion the tingling is starting to fade. This is great news and I am so pleased, but the one side effect that is worsening is my persistent lack of energy. I start the day tired and from there things go downhill.

I force myself to exercise (minimum 10000 steps per day) and this definitely helps in the short term but in the long term I am really not sure if it’s actually hurting my body.

When I have to exert myself physically I can do it but I pay the price for days afterwards.

This is so alien to me – I have always had almost limitless energy. I was renowned for driving distances of 1000 miles or more without stopping to sleep. Once a year I would push myself to walk 35 miles non stop…I had energy. But not any more.

I am finding it hard to adjust and accept this new way of living. I have always had energy to spare and now (for the moment at least) it’s not there when I need it.

Well…enough of the self pity!

A few years ago I learned about the Karpman drama triangle. It changed my life! I realised that I can spend my time feeling sorry for myself or hoping that someone else will save me or I can take ownership of the situation and steer my own future.

I will take action! Within the next 7 days..

1. I will contact the Nurse Practitioner at the Cancer clinic to confirm that lack of energy is normal – my assumption is that it is a chemotherapy side effect…but I am not a doctor.
2. I will ask if a change in diet could be helpful
3. I will ask if there are any specific exercises that are recommended
4. I will meet a local doctor for a general health check

I don’t have much energy, so I will put that energy to use in a constructive way and seek advice rather than worrying for the sake of worrying.

I will continue to walk 10000 steps as the achievement I feel on reaching this daily goal brings a smile to my face.

Best wishes,

Richard

5 things I am thankful for –

1. Sleep
2. Access to medical expertise
3. The fact that my neuropathy is fading
4. The common sense to acknowledge that something needs to change
5. The willingness to change.