Practicing Medicine

Today feels different, but I can’t quite put my finger on it. There’s a subtle shift in the air, a feeling that something is slightly off-kilter. Per my regular schedule, I rise early to prepare my elementary scholars for school. They’re at an age where they can follow instructions and understand the morning routine, but still need a guiding hand to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Take my first grader, for example. She’s perfectly capable of dressing herself, yet there are mornings when she emerges from her room looking like a miniature Cindy Lauper, with clashing patterns and colors vying for attention. It’s moments like these that remind me of the delicate balance between fostering independence and providing guidance.

As I guide my children through their morning routine, I can’t help but reflect on my own journey, particularly the recent shift in my health. I’ve embarked on a treatment plan that includes both targeted chemotherapy and immunotherapy, each with its own set of side effects. While chemotherapy often brings about immediate and intense side effects such as nausea, hair loss, and fatigue, immunotherapy tends to have more subtle effects that can linger over time.

Today, I feel off and can’t quite pinpoint the adjective to describe it. Perhaps it’s the lingering effects of the recent immunotherapy infusion. My body could be adjusting to the powerful medications that were administered to me. Unlike chemotherapy, which hits hard and fast, immunotherapy works more subtly, targeting cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. Yet, despite its gentler approach, immunotherapy can still cause side effects such as fatigue, joint pain, and skin rashes.

Navigating motherhood and subduing side effects is a delicate balancing act. It is one that requires both strength and resilience. I am everything to everyone, but I must remind myself of the importance of self-care and listening to my body’s needs. Today may feel a little funny, but with each passing day, I’m learning to embrace the journey, side effects and all.

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