For more information about my conversation with my oncologist that I mentioned, view this video. Emergency CT Scan and Results 😭My Cancer Journey Vlog #17 October 2022 ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE--1A4P-whglY.html
Ugh it’s always the best people ever that this awful disease takes 😢 Rest in the sweetest peace Maria. I hope your loving husband, kids, brother, father motherand the rest are okay ❤ I will pray for them ❤ I know you are home with God pain free looking down guiding your beautiful family from above ❤
Stage 4 unicorn here. 3.5 years since initial stage 4 diagnosis. Last PT scan showed no evidence of disease for now. Still on targeted oral chemotherapy 2 x a day. So it is still rough at times. I may have already told you this. I just wanted to share that positive things can happen with a cancer diagnosis. Much love and wishes of minimal pain and healing for you and your family.
@@MyCancerJourneyMaria I have a few online friends who have had a stage 4 diagnosis. We refer to ourselves as unicorns shitting rainbows. It is not to push the idea you must be positive all the time but when we feel a little better we refer to ourselves as unicorns. It is just to add some levity to our Situations.
Dear Maria, In some ways, I feel like I have known you forever. You will stay in my prayers daily. My very best friend was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 1998. We live in a small central Pennsylvania area, where medical care is good, but not especially groundbreaking. When you spoke about having to take a medical leave, I felt like I was right with you. Betsy and I were both special education teachers. After her surgery and recovery, all she wanted to do was get back to “the kids”. Thanks to a saintly principal, we made it happen. I picked her up every morning, we put both of our classes together, and with the help of some incredible paraprofessionals, I taught most of the classes. When Betsy felt like teaching, she did. When she just needed calm, we worked around that too. Even on days when she felt too weary to make it through the day, I was permitted to take her home at lunchtime and then return to school. I know that every cancer is different and teaching and being an attorney are not too similar, but I thought I would share our experience, just to get you thinking about possible scenarios that might work for you. I am so glad you have a great support system. Betsy did too, and it made such a difference. I was diagnosed with breast cancer a year ago. After radiation and a lumpectomy, I am in the “monitor” stage. Hopefully, I stay in that stage for awhile. I learned to make so many soups for my friend. Sometimes we would just amuse ourselves with the lists of them! They tasted good to her and she enjoyed them. Please be reassured that I am not a social media crazy lady, but your story truly prompted me to share a little of our story. Bless you, Maria!
Dear Maria, thank you for sharing part of ‘your story’! Retired RN here, I know, you know, you need to keep on top of your pain, even if this means you set an alarm to take a dose. Women tend to try and tough out their pain. Try this regime for a couple of days. Cannot imagine where your thoughts were when your kind husband buzzed your hair. Your career will be there when you are recovered, your clients will not forget you either, I suspect you went above and beyond when dealing with their cases. This does not go unnoticed in life. God Bless!
Taking my pain medication on schedule has certainly helped tremendously. I’ve even been waking up in the middle of the night to take it so when I wake up, I’m not in an extreme amount of pain. When my pain and side effects are managed, my quality of life definitely increases.
Maria you never cease to amaze me. You are one amazing lady. You look fantastic by the way. Sending lots of hugs, love, and healing energy. I’m sure your colleagues miss you very much. I pray one day you will be back doing what you really love. ❤️🙏
Sometimes you meet people who are truly good people, people who have beautiful souls..you are one of those people, I can just tell. I'm so sorry you are having to endure this difficult journey, I will be rooting for you and lifting you in prayer.
Thank you for explaining everything so well. Very helpful with people who are trying to understand the diagnosis. You're so well spoken. I could listen to you for hours and hours. I feel like your dog is very in touch with you and your feelings. Such a beautiful little guy. I will be here to support you along the way🐕❤️😊
Yes queen bald is beautiful! I embraced my baldness as well. I'm glad to hear you can count on some people to help you out. I pray you get healed and stronger than ever. We got this! 🍋😘
I have a dear friend that is also an atty. She is back at work but it took a couple of years. She said how the chemo tx, surgeries and such really took her over a year to feel back to "norm" when all these txs were done. Hang in there. Your attitude is spot on and you are doing a wonderful thing putting yourself out there for so many dealing w/ CA. I was dx 5 yrs ago w/ diffuse systemic scleroderma (terminal) and 2 summers ago multiple myeloma. I had to medically retire, from managing a large medical practice and I was also a LMT (20 yrs) and I had to close my massage practice. Referring out all my patients was a heartbreaker for me. I am single so navigating all this is quite different. The meds that I do take the copays on Medicare never end and I spend hundreds every month on the Rx. There are many things that I am not doing as both of these things I have there is no cure so I chose to live my life as best I can w/ many things being declined as they will only make me really sick and in the hosp. and I don't want that. I am in my late 60's now so life view and review are different for me. I wish you only the very best.
I am so sorry to hear of your diagnosis and prognosis. It sounds like you know exactly what I’m dealing with now as to the impact of cancer on our careers. Your outlook and determination to enjoy the quality of life you have left is amazing. I think it’s so important to enjoy whatever life we have left.
My background is in law also, but life intervened and I was disabled before age thirty. Hang in there. . . Life goes on and you can do this and your unique experience will benefit all who find you. The adjustment is part of life. Hang in there.
I’m so glad you have so much support. 😊 it sounds like your treatment centre is covering everything. Your career will still be there when you either become cancer free or manage your condition. It doesn’t mean you won’t have a career, it just might look a little different from before. Try not to think too far ahead and worry. Just manage it all day by day. Sending love and prayers. X
I'm glad you're feeling better and that you have so much support. Aside from taking 2 weeks for my double mastectomy I was actually able to keep working through my cancer treatment. I was able to adjust my schedule according to treatment and harder side effect days but I did it. I think it totally depends on each person's complete situation but wanted to make mention because I've never heard anyone else that has. Listen to your body and your doctors and do what's right for you. Take good care! 🌼
Prior to my diagnosis, I was having to leave work early because of the pain, so my work schedule had already been impacted but the cause was unclear. I cannot imagine only taking two weeks off after a double mastectomy or even being able to work during treatment, you're amazing. Hopefully they provided you with a complete cure!
I was lucky to not have pain aside from right after mastectomy. I know that made a huge difference in my ability. I’m 6yrs out now and good luckily. I was/am at MGH. 😊❤
Hello again from Wales. You look gr8 with the haircut. I just wanted to say don't go back too early after your treatment, I did and regret it. I needed to rest, recover and process everything. Eventually my GP said I should be on long term sick and concentrating on full recovery. Just like you I love my job (musician and work with dementia using my guitar n voice, art craft ect) & I went back too soon as I missed clients, needed a focus in my life. But, I didn't realise what chemo and everything else that comes with this diagnosis does to ya strength, stamina, how ya brain works. Everything. I'm glad your getting some "extra" help, I wish I'd asked for professional help earlier. I now have a cancer specific therapist and I'm also having reflexology (which is bloody marvellous stuff I must say). Your dog is an absolute beauty. We have 3 Woofs here. Love em. Any news on the genetics? Sending lots of love n cwtch. ❤️
What an interesting and rewarding career! I can see how you would really miss your clients. I typically take two naps a day, so my strength would really need to increase for me to even contemplate returning to work. I'm just taking one day at a time.
Hey Maria, thank you for another very insightful video. You have a very positive attitude and I’m sure that it will be very crucial during your treatment. Sending you loads upon loads of love and healight light as well as my prayers for an easier road to recovery. 💞✨🙏
You have an amazing, contagious laugh and smile! Your journey is helping so many and your positive attitude helps me in my chronic illness/ pain situation. Thank you.
Hi Maria! Please know what a difference you are making. This video and the last one were so good. Watching these, I was reminded of Isaiah 70:5 which talks about setting your face like flint. Fixing your will in unwavering perseverence. Being determined to never give up even though the odds are dismal or worse. While believing with every ounce of your being that you will prevail. Part of practicing family law must be not only aiming to win, but also modeling for clients what steadfastness is required to stand and fight. Watching you encourages people, shows them how to have courage, in the darkest and most discouraging circumstances of life. You exude that. And that is why it is so great that you are sharing your cancer journey, here, with people who otherwise would never be exposed to you or anyone like you. I believe you are here for a reason, not just postponing getting back to work. Love and hugs, Mary P.S. You do look great. And congrats on making partner in a law firm.
You are one amazing, “together” and competent woman! While i’ve had cancer, it did not change my life as it is with you. However, i do have experience with a sudden change in my life circumstances that i had no control over at the time. It eventually ended my career (i was about 55 and at the top of my game). How to cope? I planned dual paths - will career end or not - and i identified what needs i might need to get met in other ways. Maybe pro bono, maybe a reduced role at your law firm, maybe a volunteer mediator, etc. While it might seem that the future is completely unknown, you can still develop potential plans to give you something to hold onto. You are going to sort things out, and in the weeks ahead you’ll find a sense of control by finding ways to stay as involved as your health allows. Remember this - it doesn’t have to be all or nothing.
I like that, mapping out two different paths, or more. I am definitely a planner, so not knowing what is going to happen next makes that difficult. However, even without knowing the future, I can at least have a plan(s).
Watching your husband shave your hair off reminds me of when my dad shaved my mom’s hair during her chemo for ovarian cancer battle. Embrace these moments of connection with your spouse, knowing he loves you through it all. It takes a strong man to do what needs to be done. ❤
It's so good to see you back. You asked about what people did regarding work. I was at retirement age when I was diagnosed so started getting Social Security. I would have liked to wait until 70 but without work, needed the money at that point. After a couple of years, I started volunteer work because I didn't want to commit myself to a real job. I was worried that I would get a recurrence, just felt too unsure. I did see people that I met in support groups that worked right through chemo. I could not, just didn't feel up to par although I did the usual shopping, getting on subways, life was not that different. I would say just go with it for now, relax, watch TV, read and try to look at it as a vacation of sorts, no alarm clock, no commitments. I used the time to get better at piano and relearn the language I spoke as a child. You don't know what time will bring and since you really love your career, I hope that in time you can resume that.I know that our profession is such a big part of our identity and when it's stripped away, we feel that loss but look at it as a break now, to concentrate on getting well and less stress. I think you are an amazing, lovely person and as always, I include you in my Friday night prayer when I light my Sabbath candles. Having gone through this, I believe that nobody can truly understand the fear and the whole crazy experience as we do. It will be 10 years from diagnosis for me in May. I didn't think I'd be here 10 years ago, but here I am and it all seems like a strange dream now. I hope with all my heart that you will say the same someday! Hugs from NY :-)
It’s funny you brought up the piano. When my son visited the other day, he was talking about a piano book that he was using to learn. After discussion, I ended up ordering it so I’m actually waiting for it to be delivered! As always, thank you so much for your support and your uplifting message.
Thank you for this video it is very enlightening and does open up a topic that everyone going to your cancer treatment has to address. I wish I had pearls of wisdom for you however all I can do is offer support and appreciate your story. I pray that your future treatment will be successful and that someday you can return to the profession that you love.
Continuing to pray for you, Maria! It's refreshing to know you're still receiving treatment and are feeling well enough to provide an update. ❤️❤️❤️🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
You look beautiful, I sincerely mean that. And yes, it looks much better than the ‘before’ picture. There is something to be said for taking charge of the situations when you can. Hoping they find a new regimen that works that gets this in remission.
I totally empathize with your difficulty in not being able to work now. I had to stop my career due to my medical condition I’m older 69 but even though it’s been 5 years it still remains difficult. Mine was due to a debilitating heart condition. I don’t have a good suggestion. Prayers and love to you
I am a 46 year old tax attorney that followed the traditional path of college, law school and law firm practice yet I never married and never had kids. You are lucky to have all of the above. 🤍It warms my hear to hear you speak about your clients and what they mean to you. know several female partners that took time off to treat their cancer or a loved one's cancer and successfully returned to practice. You are so strong and am happy to support you through all of this. Thank you.
I was worried about you. I look for your videos all the time. Maria, your so beautiful inside and out. How is your husband? I just want to be sure you know, we pray for you both. I'm so sorry for your pain and just all of this. I pray your able to figure out how to reincorporate your law practice back into your life when you get this treatment behind you and back to yoir healthy life. 🙏
@@MyCancerJourneyMaria your so incredibly fortunate but no surprise you have so many who love you, as you seem like such a beautiful soul. Happy to be part pf your utube support and prayer chain.
You are still amazing and beautiful no matter what. Just work on staying positive n staying as healthy as possible. It's a long hard journey but with God you can do it
Hi Maria. I'm sorry you are going through this, but it's wonderful to see you tackling cancer head on with so much strength and faith. I've been following your journey, and I think others watching who may be going through something difficult, whether it's cancer or something else, will be encouraged by your light. I pray that your journey, despite any bumps along the way, has the best outcome for you. As far as you were career, I understand what you are going through, and the best advice I can give is to not worry too much about that and not give up hope. Easier said than done, I know. For now, just focus on getting better. Harley can help with that. BTW, she's so sweet! Unconditional love, cuddles, and willing ears to hear whatever is on your mind. Take care and stay strong. :)
PS I also got my degree after my children were almost grown and I was a single parent. I was a teacher until my severe arthritis and fibromyalgia slowed me down and I couldn’t stand for Long periods of time. I also suffer from other chronic illnesses but I miss working. there are many ways to be creative and feel needed and relevant. I started a RU-vid channel about books. It’s just a hobby but I made a lot of friends, new friends.There is life after illness, sometimes new adventures that you wouldn’t have thought of before. Much aloha
My husband has esophageal cancer and is doing very well, he retired but was working part time a fun job that he loves, not his career, he took some time off durning surgery and treatment but is back at doing well.
I grew up in Melrose. My gram practiced law in Cambridge! Only two schools allowed women then, in New York and Boston of course. Her school was Portia Which eventually merged with Suffolk Law. And she needed a male sponsor just to apply. 🤢 You’re in my thoughts daily! 💓🎃🐾 Hi Harley! Great to have such a lovely support system.
PS It would be great if you could consult with women about to embark on the divorce journey and give them much-needed advice. Could that be a branch of your law firm?
That’s awesome! I went to Suffolk Law as well! Part of my practice is consulting with individuals prior to filing for divorce (or even when they are just thinking about it but have no plans to file). Many times, they need to see the financial aspects of what would likely occur in the event of a divorce. I think many people are really surprised at the financial reality of divorce. However, it is much more expensive to sustain two separate households than one, so money definitely doesn’t go as far.
Just keep strong. Its hard but you can do it 3 children and you worked your but off to get the job you wanted that says alot about you. Your a fighter you are in my heart and prayers for you lots and lots of prayers keep strong you have a lovely family and friends you will ok xxxxxxxx Sandra from 🇬🇧 UK XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX
I am so sorry that you are going thru this after you have worked so hard to raise a family on your own and worked so hard to become an Attorney. I am praying for you and hope that you fight this. I know a nurse that after she had her baby found out she had ovian cancer and she fought it and has been fine for many years so I am hoping for this for you.🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Hi Maria, I love your strength, I’m newly diagnosed with stage 3C uterine Cancer and I’m really having a hard time dealing with it. Did you ever use tranquilizers like Xanax to calm yourself? I feel like I need something. I am on the verge of a panic attack several times a day. Do you think my oncologist would prescribe them to me? Thanks ❤praying 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
@@blucky1250 I just hate asking them for anything because then k feel like they think you are drug seeking. But I feel like those drugs were made for a reason, I think Cancer should be considered to be a traumatic event that warrants a anxiety drug. I can’t sleep!
I’m so sorry to hear of your diagnosis. I have not been prescribed tranquilizers, However, I know many others who have received them. I would urge you to ask your oncologist for it because they should be treating the whole person, not just killing cancer cells. There may be some social workers at your hospital that could help assist you as well. I work with a social worker who specializes in working with oncology patients and that has been really helpful. The stronger our minds are, the more power we have to overcome the odds. I wish you the best of luck ❤️
Have you considered joining the Dana Farber gyn oncology support group? I believe they meet online now. I got so much out of just meeting other people with gyn cancer and hearing about their lives . Some of them became my best friends. I am 8 years and 2 months in remission with ovarian cancer, stage iv.
That’s such great news and that gives me hope! If you’re talking about the group that Bebe runs, she told me that it was more focused on patients that were post treatment.
Yes, Bebe now runs the group but it is certainly not just for people post treatment. Women in all stages of the disease regularly attended. Do you have a social worker? They can advise about this group and any others available for you to attend online.
Just subscribed and I've been binge watching your videos all day. What an amazing spirit you have💝 wishing you all the best on your journey and thanks for sharing 🙏
