Strength and Gratitude

The past month has not been easy that is for sure. Following my emergency back surgery, I had to receive 20 rounds of radiation on three sites on my back and neck. My body did not tolerate these sessions well at all. They say no one does. This caused me to be in and out of the hospital for six weeks as I battled the side effects and dehydration. Being in and out of the hospital has been both a blessing and a curse. There were many moments when I really needed to be there under a watchful eye and be taken care of. Luckily I had the best team of nurses who cared deeply about me and made being there not suck so much. However, a lot of the time all I wanted to do was to get out of there, eat a home cooked meal, sleep in my own bed with Max, and hang out with my friends. I was able to come home from the hospital on the 3rd of October and have been doing okay since.

Because of the surgery, radiation, and long stay in the hospital, I lost a lot of weight and strength. My goals being back home now are to eat and drink a healthy amount as well as keep on working towards my physical goals. Soon enough I’ll be back to walking more independently and I am already working on my yoga, which has helped me significantly during this battle. I have also been incorporating meditation and reflexology into my routine. I meet with a friend from yoga for an hour-long guided meditation when I am home and use the Headspace app with my mom every day now. Reflexology I have mentioned before but I had a session today and the lady was able to tell where in my body I was hurting just by touching my feet. I got lots of relief after and believe that taking a holistic approach to this battle is the only way.

Despite the difficulties I am facing, there are so many things I am grateful for. Even though I can’t walk on my own yet, I am not paralyzed which could have been the case if I did not have emergency surgery. I have been at home, besides doctors appointments, for several days and have been able to see some of my friends who were home for the long weekend including a fall themed Paint Night.

Going into the fall and Thanksgiving season, I just want to remind every to take a moment and be grateful for their health and the little things they are able to accomplish each day. My parents have been my complete caregivers taking care of me every moment of every day and for that, I am beyond grateful. Holly made a sign hanging on the wall of my room that says, “Every day may not be good, but there is something good in every day.” and it has never felt truer to me.

17 thoughts on “Strength and Gratitude

  1. Thinking of you sweet girl!! Keep finding the good. Even when it seems there is none to be found. You will find it in your heart. We all love you so much and rooting for you to kick this cancers butt. Hugs and love and prayers!! ❤️🤗❤️😘❤️🙏❤️🤗❤️😘❤️🙏❤️

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  2. Janelle,
    You are truly an inspiring, strong young woman. I love you and we are always thinking of you! We can’t wait to see you soon! I send you all of my love and prayers<3 P.s. Yoga and meditation are so great for the body and soul!

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  3. Janelle,
    I’m so sorry that you have to go through all of this but, I’m so impressed by your strength and positive attitude. You have a wonderful family! You have helped me to look at my life and appreciate the little things that I used to take for granted. I pray for you every day! 💜💜💜
    Mrs. Yelle

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  4. Oh Janelle, you hang in there cousin, we love you and are pulling for you. I hope you’re feeling a little better everyday, and can focus on getting stronger now. XO

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  5. Janelle, I hope that you are able to continue to heal through yoga, meditation, reflexology and through the positive spirit that we all share with you. Holly’s quote from Colleen is so powerful and true as we well know!💕

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  6. Every time I read your blog I am reminded you are a gift to all of us! Your strength and grace are amazing! Thank you for your wisdom

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  7. Janelle. I am so proud of your determination and positive attitude. During the difficult times you keep on fighting. You are my sunshine. Love you. Auntie Anne

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  8. Janelle – I was so happy to see you yesterday & am glad you are back home with your family & sleeping in your own bed. I love the motivational quote Holly put up for you. With support like that, you WILL gain back your strength!

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  9. Janelle,
    You have a wonderful attitude. Keep positive and stay strong. Know that I am praying for you. You are truly inspiring.
    Cindy Noftle

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  10. Dear Janelle, we have been thinking of you as you work to heal your body. I’m glad you have great doctors/nurses, a loving family and wholistic options to add to your treatment. May you gain more strength and healing while surrounded by the love of friends and family. Love from the Conleys

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  11. Janelle, sending love and namaste healing wishes, thank you for sharing your beautiful words, thoughts, spirit, pleas know we are always sending loving thoughts to you & your family…xoxo Auntie Marie

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