one year later

For all of you struggling, just wanted to add my story. (thanks to Pitt and margo).
I was diagnosed May 2009, right before my daughter's HS graduation. the party and all was a struggle mentally, then the surgery which I got through fine. the pathology was not as hoped or thought, so went on to chemo. A year ago this month I started chemo, was really ill, got my period too(last one I ever had) with a severe migraine. (worst one I ever had). finally able to raise my head off the couch, went to a party at this place we go to. could not eat, (afraid also it would trigger the big D) continued with chemo, it was bad for me, lost 80 pounds, (thin now fat then) developed a rectal fissure(severe pain bed ridden, debiltitated) yada yada. posted a few notes on my struggles, very low this place really held me up. crawled across the finish line, slowly getting better, little backstep with zometa, did fine through rads. ANYWAY, last night went to same annual party, ate the meal, danced (even though my feet are still somewhat numb) and had a great time. People told me or my husband that I "looked so happy" I felt relaxed, and happy and I wanted to savor it. I felt "good" people compliment me on my hair (I really dont like it, but I'll take any compliment I can get) I made a point of going to the party because it was a reminder to myself of one year ago and how far I have come. I really had fun. The reason I gave such a long explanation of my travails(left out the dehydration. hospitalization, fever etc..) is to tell you it gets better. even though I dont know the future, i am so happy to be in my present. I did it and so can you , then you will be dancing too! and since i havent heard from my onc(he said he would call if my blood was off) I tentatively assume I am dancing with NED, (no boobs to mammo). so you sahred with me last night. Love you all, you and my family and friends have been my anchor!!!!!