Stanleh

Hey man, I'm not sure whether this message will reach you or not but here goes.

Question: What did go through your mind when you were given your first chemotherapy?

I am 21 years old myself but have been dealing with the very same disease since the age of 16. I was diagnosed with ALL back in 2009. After three years of chemotherapy I was finally rid of my medication. 10 Months without any medication later I suffered a testicular relapse. According to my doctors I am the twelvth or thirtheenth person to suffer this condition worldwide. I have gone through chemotherapy, radiotherapy and have had a stem cell transplant. I am still recovering and still going to school (teacher training). I will send you a PM, just in case you don't read this message and will tell you the very same thing. Surround yourself with the people you love whenever possible, listen to your body. Come to terms with the fact that your mind WILL wander off and that it will lead you to dark places - do not hesitate to reach out for help. Pain and suffering are only temporary, giving up is permanent. If you ever need a chat, do let me know! I have a blog (mainly Dutch but already partly translated to English) about my situation since June 2013. Good luck and stay strong. You're not done with life, neither is it done with you. EDIT: Format

I have been diagnosed 5 years ago, as well! I suffered the same conditon with the cortisones. I noticed it before the doctors did, I asked a nurse whether my blood values were okay - she confirmed. I had nothing but fanta, coke and sprite that day. Needless to say, my blood sugar went up to 500+mg/dl. I was also partly and temporarily paralyzed during my first therapy, but because of a celebral hemorrhage rather than Methotrexate (which I know is a nasty drug). The latter messed up my throat and mouth, though... Needed morfine!

Been there, done that, unfortunately. I had the same condition (but worse than the first time) after my TBI (Total Body Irradiation) and I simply refused the morfine because it can possibly cause some nausea. It already felt like I was vomiting more than breathing, so I passed.

Hey man, I'm not sure whether this message will reach you or not because is not a question but a general message of support. I am 21 years old myself but have been dealing with the very same disease since the age of 16. I was diagnosed with ALL back in 2009. After three years of chemotherapy I was finally rid of my medication. 10 Months without any medication later I suffered a testicular relapse. I have gone through chemotherapy, radiotherapy and have had a stem cell transplant. I am still recovering and still going to school (teacher training). I will send you a PM, just in case you don't read this message and will tell you the very same thing. Surround yourself with the people you love whenever possible, listen to your body. Come to terms with the fact that your mind WILL wander off and that it will lead you to dark places - do not hesitate to reach out for help. Pain and suffering are only temporary, giving up is permanent. If you ever need a chat, do let me know! I have a blog (mainly Dutch but already partly translated to English) about my situation since June 2013.

Good luck and stay strong. You're not done with life, neither is it done with you.